"Why do you want to see me?" Nikolai asked, taking a sip of his tea.
Hadrian had come to visit him, and Nikolai was curious about the reason for the meeting.
Hadrian hesitated for a moment before explaining, "I know we are not close, and I rarely attend parties to socialize with other nobles, but I came here today because I know that you are close to the Princess."
Nikolai raised an eyebrow. "And so?"
Hadrian fidgeted.
"Wait, don't tell me you like the Princess?" Nikolai asked.
Hadrian's eyes widened, and he quickly responded, "N-No! Please don't get the wrong idea."
"Then why are you here? Just tell it without beating around the bush," Nikolai said, looking somewhat annoyed.
"It's about my brother," Hadrian revealed.
"Duke Wolfsbane? What about him?" Nikolai inquired.
"He's been acting strangely lately... I think he's hiding something," Hadrian explained.
Nikolai appeared uninterested. "It's your family problem. Why do you need to involve me?"
Hadrian persisted, "Because I think it's connected with the Emperor."
"What do you mean?" Nikolai asked, growing more attentive.
Hadrian sighed and confessed, "I believe he's behind the Emperor's death."
"What did you say? Is that true?" Nikolai was shocked.
Hadrian continued to explain, "I.. I don't have any proof. It's just my intuition. Before the Emperor died, he went to visit him. And we were all surprised by his sudden death and the news about passing the throne to Prince Izekiel."
Nikolai, clearly intrigued, sought clarification, "So you mean, he forced the Emperor and killed him?"
"I'm not sure, I need evidence," Hadrian admitted.
Nikolai contemplated the situation. "So are you suggesting that we should investigate your brother?"
Hadrian nodded, earnestly asking for Nikolai's help. "Yes, and I need your help. Your brother was locked up because of my brother."
Nikolai updated Hadrian on the recent news, saying, "I heard they are going to release them soon. Have you heard about the upcoming wedding of the Emperor and Princess Aria?"
Hadrian was surprised, exclaiming, "What? But they were cousins."
Nikolai nodded, sharing more details, "Yeah, it's really surprising. People are now talking about them. The Palace announced that it was to preserve the pure bloodline of the Serolf Family."
"And the Princess agreed with that? How about her husbands?" Hadrian was bewildered.
"They have no choice, it's the Emperor. Her reputation will get tarnished once again because of their upcoming wedding." Nikolai explained.
Hadrian expressed his disbelief, "This is crazy."
Nikolai agreed, "It certainly is."
Hadrian then sought confirmation, "So, are you willing to help me?"
Nikolai thought deeply and then replied, "If your brother is really behind the former Emperor's death, then I will help you. Because of his death, many things happened. Prince Mikhail died, Aria was forced to marry the new Emperor, and my brother was locked up."
"Let's reveal their true colors." Hadrian added.
"For the empire," Nikolai affirmed.
They shook hands in agreement.
.
.
....
Aria's husbands were finally released from custody. They discussed the unexpected news of Aria's impending marriage to the new Emperor.
"A marriage?" Rasheen couldn't believe it. "Why do you have to marry that bastard?"
"Lower your voice, he's the new Emperor now." Claudius urged him.
"I don't care, we're now talking about marriage! Aria was forced to marry him!" Rasheen fumed.
Aria spoke up, "He didn't force me."
Rasheen was surprised. "What? So you really want to marry him?"
Aria clarified her reasons, "I'm marrying him for the Empire. Can't you see? Duke Wolfsbane is on his side. I believe he's not done yet with his plans. He's going to manipulate Izekiel."
Rasheen sat down and sighed in frustration.
"So what's your plan?" Claudius asked.
"I will investigate him. I will use my position to stop him from executing his plans." she explained.
Gawain voiced concern, "Isn't it too dangerous? What if he tries to kill you again?"
"He can't harm me, I will use Izekiel as my shield. As long as he's at my side, Duke Wolfsbane can't touch me. He still needs Izekiel's trust." she reassured them.
Gawain added his thoughts, "Just be careful. Duke Wolfsbane is cunning and clever."
Aria smiled at their support. "I will... Don't worry, even if I marry Izekiel, my heart will always belong to you."
The husbands smiled back.
"We will help you, let's bring him down together," Claudius declared.
They all nodded in agreement, ready to assist Aria in her mission to protect the empire.
.
.
During the night…
Rasheen and Aria lay together in bed. The weight of recent events was heavy on their minds.
"Are you still thinking about the wedding?" Rasheen asked gently.
Aria shifted her gaze from the ceiling, her eyes filled with thoughts. "No," she replied. "I'm thinking about Mikhail."
Rasheen's expression softened as he continued to hold her. "You love him, right?"
Aria met his eyes.
"You don't have to deny it," he said softly, "I can see it in your eyes. And from the reactions you made during our escape, the pain you felt when we heard about his death…I can tell it, you loved him."
"Am I a bad woman for loving another man again?" she asked.
He shook his head, his fingers gently caressing her hair. "It's your heart, we can't force ourselves to stop loving someone."
As tears trickled down her cheeks, she continued, "Although he looks scary, he's still a caring person. He did everything to protect the people of our empire."
Rasheen comforted her, wiping away her tears. "Sshh... C'mon. Don't cry. Let's forget all the bad things that happened in the past, let's move on now."
With a faint smile, Aria nodded, apologizing, "Yeah, I'm sorry."
He leaned in, placing tender kisses on her forehead, nose. "Let us just enjoy this night, okay?" and finally, he kissed her on her lips.
They kissed passionately.
Rasheen's hand explored her body. She moaned when he caressed her breast.
"I love you so much," he whispered tenderly between their kisses.
.
.
....
The wedding day had arrived, and the grand ceremony was attended by all nobles. Aria looked resplendent in her white dress, and Izekiel couldn't take his eyes off her.
"You're very beautiful," he told her, holding her hand.
"Thank you, you look handsome too. I guess it's running in our blood," she replied with a smile.
She stole a glance at her husbands, who watched with serious expressions, they were glaring at Izekiel.
C'mon guys…Please endure this just for now.
After the ceremony, a grand party unfolded at the Imperial Palace. The newlyweds were busy entertaining their guests.
"Congratulations, Your Majesty," Duke Wolfsbane greeted them, bowing.
"Thank you," Izekiel replied happily.
The Duke's gaze shifted to Aria. "You're so beautiful today, Your Majesty," he remarked.
"I have been beautiful since I was young," Aria quipped with a smile.
The Duke cackled. "Now I understand why His Majesty was head over heels for you. He always mentioned you to me."
Aria smiled, holding Izekiel's hand. "Really? I'm glad to hear that. I'm also lucky to have him as my husband. He's loving and caring."
"Of course, I will do everything to make my wife happy," Izekiel declared, gently caressing her face.
"In return, I will never leave His Majesty's side," Aria added, her gaze shifting to the Duke.
The Duke chuckled and patted Izekiel's shoulders. "I envy you for having a wife like her."
"You should find a wife too," Izekiel suggested, and they made a toast. Meanwhile, Hadrian and Nikolai exchanged a knowing look.
.
.
....
One year had passed, and the empire had seen significant changes. Many ministers who had supported the late Prince Mikhail had been replaced, and some knights who had aided him during the rebellion were accused of treason and executed, including Philip. The rules had become stricter, with night curfews and a slight increase in taxes.
The empire's ministers and nobles were divided, with one party supporting the Emperor, while the others stood on the Empress's side.
Aria reviewed a pile of documents, inquiring about the situation in the western region. "How's the landmine in the west?" she asked while perusing the reports.
Cedrik, who now served as her secretary, reported, "According to the report, it will be under Duke Wolfsbane's management. The Emperor granted him the authority to oversee it."
Aria sighed, "He didn't consult me about that matter. I'll talk to him later."
Cedrik continued, "Regarding your proposal to allow interested women to study at the Academy, the Emperor mentioned that he's still discussing it with the ministers. We'll have to wait for the final decision."
Aria rolled her eyes in exasperation, saying, "I'm sure the other ministers are resisting the idea. There's no need for him to cater to their opinions, he is the Emperor."
She was passionate about granting women equal rights and the opportunity to pursue education.
Instead of engaging in activities such as drinking tea with other noble ladies, gossiping, and shopping, Aria believed it was time to empower women with education and knowledge. Her vision extended beyond the aristocracy – she aimed to extend this opportunity to commoners, providing them with a chance to gain an education, breaking down the barriers that had held them back.
Knock! Knock!
"Come in!" Aria called.
Jenny entered, bearing a tray with a peculiar snack.
Cedrik glanced at the food. "Apple slices with chocolate syrup and cheese?"
Aria grinned, "I've been craving this lately." She took an apple slice and dipped it in the chocolate syrup, savoring the flavors.
Cedrik, in disbelief, exchanged glances with Jenny, who simply shrugged.
Knock! Knock!
"Come in!" Aria welcomed another guest.
William entered and bowed, "Your Majesty, Lord Hadrian is here."
Lord Hadrian had been coming to the Palace daily to play music for the Empress. Aria was a great admirer of his music and had hired him to perform for her.
Aria smiled and nodded at William, "Tell him I'll be there after I finish my meal."
"Yes, Your Majesty." William bowed and left.
.
.
Aria closed her eyes, completely immersed in the beautiful melodies played by Hadrian. The gentle smile on his face as he glanced at her while playing conveyed his deep appreciation for her presence.
A year had passed, and the weariness was evident in the Empress's eyes. She diligently reviewed reports and proposals before they reached the Emperor, ensuring that no deceit would harm him. She was unwavering in her dedication to protect him at all costs.
The music ceased, and Aria smiled, clapping her hands. "Your new composition is truly beautiful, calming, and relaxing."
Hadrian smiled back, glancing at her while acknowledging the compliment. "Thank you so much, Your Majesty. I'm delighted that you enjoyed it."
Servants brought snacks and tea, which allowed the two to relax and converse.
"How's the investigation going regarding your brother?" she asked.
"He's being extremely cautious. I believe he might be using others to carry out clandestine operations for him. My investigators mentioned that he hasn't acted suspiciously." Hadrian replied.
Aria pondered for a moment and then asked, "What about Nikolai?"
"He reported the same. No suspicious activity." he said.
She expressed her frustration, "Your brother is quite shrewd, he leaves no traces."
Hadrian continued. "But we are still monitoring Ludwig."
Aria's eyes hardened at the mention of Ludwig.
That guy...
She really hates him, he's responsible for Mikhail's death, a fact that she deeply resented.
"I want to kill that guy." she muttered.
Hadrian provided an update on Ludwig, "Nikolai's agents reported seeing him in an alley a few nights ago, but when they attempted to follow him, he vanished."
"Ludwig moves like an assassin. Don't forget his past as the masked man involved in numerous covert operations. I can't confront him directly since Izekiel trusts him. I assume the Emperor would take his word over mine. I'll assign Ryu to investigate him, leave him to us. Your focus should remain on your brother. Others are also looking into the ministers who frequently meet with him." she commented.
Hadrian sighed, expressing his hope, "I pray my brother isn't involved in anything sinister."
Aria picked up a strawberry cookie, but after a single bite, she spat it out.
"What's wrong? " he asked.
"I don't like it," she stated, placing the cookie on an empty plate.
.
.
"The Empress was out of her mind. Why does she want the ladies of our empire to enter the academy? The academy is for males only." Minister Guzman said.
"I agree, the ladies should stay in the house, support the men, or socialize with other nobles to make connections with other families," Minister Cruz chimed in.
"And what's even funnier is she wants the commoners to enter the academy too. Hahaha, those poor people don't belong there, they will only tarnish the academy's reputation," Minister Ramirez added.
"Seriously? Hahahaaha!"
The ministers burst into laughter. Izekiel watched them in silence, his thoughts hidden.
"But the Empress's idea isn't bad. Don't you want the ladies to learn too? If they enter the academy, there are many things they will learn from there," Claudius interjected.
The laughter ceased, and the ministers took Claudius's words seriously.
"I agree with Lord Claudius, this is a good opportunity for the women of our empire. I heard that women from other countries were attending academies too," Marquis Strauss voiced his support.
"We are not surprised, you guys have been supporting the Empress since the beginning," Duke Wolfsbane commented, his tone sarcastic.
"Because she's an excellent Empress," Lord Claudius defended.
"I'm already expecting that from the Empress's fourth husband," Duke Wolfsbane sneered.
Claudius clenched his fists, trying to maintain his composure.
"Your Majesty, why don't we put this to a vote?" Minister Guzman suggested.
"He's right, the result will be the final decision," Minister Cruz agreed.
Izekiel glanced at Duke Wolfsbane for a brief moment, the nod of approval received.
"All right, do whatever you think is best," Izekiel said, yielding to the ministers' suggestion.
The Ministers smiled.
As expected, the Emperor can't decide on his own. He still relied on the Duke's counsel for important decisions. They called Izekiel as the Great Puppet Emperor behind his back.
They're laughing in secret. What a foolish man.
.
.
....
"Master!!!" Hachi ran towards Aria when he saw her coming.
She had visited the laboratory today to see Hachi and Xerxes.
She hugged him tightly. "How's your job as his apprentice? You didn't give him a headache, did you?"
Hachi wore a bright smile, and he shook his head vigorously. "Nope! I'm doing a good job. I want Master to be proud of me! Hehe."
"Very good." She patted his head affectionately.
"Don't listen to him, just recently, he broke something because of his clumsiness," Xerxes teased as he carried some books.
Seeing Xerxes, Aria's smile widened, and she immediately embraced him.
"Hmph!" Hachi scowled. "It's not my fault, it's your stuff that is getting in the way."
Aria laughed and pinched his cheek. "Don't be mad. I asked Cedrik to prepare snacks for you. Why don't you go to him and eat?"
"Snacks!!!" Hachi's eyes sparkled, and he dashed out of the laboratory.
Xerxes seized the opportunity and hugged Aria from behind. "You've been incredibly busy lately. Don't you know how much I missed you?"
He planted a soft kiss on her neck, and her smile deepened.
"That's because I'm keeping an eye on the Emperor and the ministers. I've read the proposals they submitted. It's all about tax increases and new laws. I don't want the Emperor to sign them without consulting me."
Xerxes worriedly added, "I don't want you to tire yourself."
"But I have no choice. I don't want him to turn into a puppet Emperor. I don't understand why he places such unwavering trust in Duke Wolfsbane." she said.
"The Emperor grew up without parents to guide him. He might see Duke Wolfsbane as a father figure since he took care of him for several years," Xerxes speculated.
She sighed, "I promised Aria to protect him, and I would do everything in my power to ensure he isn't controlled by the Duke or the ministers."
Xerxes stroked her hair. "Don't worry, we promised that we would help you. I've discovered a new magic that can create a portal. If there's ever a war in the future, I will send them all there." He made a playful comment.
She chuckled, appreciating his attempt to lighten the mood. "I like that idea, hahaha."
"By the way, I have some dragon fruits here. I know you like them." He grabbed a basket of fruit.
"Wow! Thank you." Aria took a deep sniff, but she felt nauseous.
"Hey, are you all right?" he asked worriedly.
"Y-Yeah.. It's just the smell.." she covered her nose.
Xerxes furrowed his brow, and he smelled the fruit. "But it smells good."
"I don't know. Maybe I am really tired today." she said.
Xerxes studied her with a concerned expression.
No way...
.
.
....
"Did the Emperor already sign the proposal regarding the land in the west village?" Duke Wolfsbane asked.
"He said he would consult the Empress first." Ludwig answered.
"What? I distinctly recall him stating that as long as the Duke approves, he would sign it without question," Minister Cruz remarked.
"It seems the Empress was displeased when he allowed the Duke to oversee the western landmine," Ludwig explained.
"Ha! It appears she's gaining control over him!" Minister Guzman chimed in.
"We require that land for our operation. We must have it signed as soon as possible," Minister Ramirez insisted.
"Fear not, I shall discuss this with him tomorrow. I will ensure he signs it," the Duke assured them.
They all nodded and resumed their card game. The Duke exchanged a brief glance with Ludwig, who then bowed and left the room.
.
.
....
"How did the meeting go?" Aria inquired as she stroked Izekiel's hair. He was resting with his head on her lap.
"They expressed their opposition to your proposal. They want me to decline it. The majority voted in favor of rejection," he responded.
"Those old farts are so self-serving. They can't comprehend that it's for the greater good of our empire."
"I spoke with Duke Wolfsbane, and he disagreed as well."
"So, you're going to refuse my request?"
Izekiel sat up and gently caressed her face. "I don't want to, but..."
"If you're going to reject my proposal, then there's no reason for you to sign theirs regarding the western village."
"Aria..."
"I'm curious, what's their interest in the west? There are residents there. If you grant them the land, what will become of the people living there?"
"I plan to relocate them to the North."
She rolled her eyes. "You can say no to me, but not to them. Do you really love me?"
"Come on, don't be upset. I'll reconsider it."
"Don't sign it."
He sighed.
"Ugh.. They are giving me a headache." she massaged her temples.
"I'm sorry..." he hugged her.
"Actually, I'm not feeling well lately. I frequently experience nausea and fatigue."
"Are you sick? I'll summon the imperial physician."
"Maybe I'm just hungry. I'm craving apples with chocolate and cheese right now. Could you summon a servant for me?"
Izekiel promptly called the servants and instructed them to bring her the desired food. He watched her eating her food.
He covered his mouth. What the hell is she eating?
He left the room and called Jenny, who now the head of the female servants.
"Is that the food she usually eats when I'm not around?" he asked.
"Yes, Your Majesty. She often requests it for her snacks," Jenny confirmed.
"That's strange. Is she unwell?" he muttered.
.
.
....
The following day...
Aria hurried to Izekiel's office upon discovering that he had already signed the Ministers' proposal.
"Why did you sign it?" she asked furiously.
Izekiel stood up, his face showing a mix of frustration and defiance. "Why are you getting mad? It's just a piece of land."
Aria's eyes burned with anger. "There are people living there!"
Izekiel replied matter-of-factly, "I already told you I would send them to the North. I had already discussed it with Lord Claudius, and he agreed with that."
"It's not only about the people, Kiel. I'm sensing that they are plotting something. Did the Duke force you to sign it? Why do you trust him so much? Have you forgotten that he also tried to kill me?"
Izekiel responded coldly, "It's Viscount Milano, not him."
Aria clenched her teeth in frustration. "And besides, why would I need to consult you? I'm the Emperor," he added, his words dripping with arrogance.
Her eyes widened, and she was taken aback by his tone. "Nice, so you're thinking highly of yourself now? You can decide on your own now? Great... That's great. If only Mikhail were here..." Aria accidentally mentioned his name in front of Izekiel.
His rage flared, and he grabbed her chin forcefully. "What did you say? Did I not tell you before that I didn't want to hear his name again!"
She averted her gaze to avoid his piercing eyes.
He despised Mikhail, despite his death, still rejecting any mention of his name.
"Do you still love that traitor? Am I still not enough for you?" He began throwing a tantrum, hurling vases and creating a tumult.
"Kiel, calm down!" Aria urged, trying to soothe his storm of emotions.
"I did everything for you! Why am I still not enough?!" he cried as he continued to throw objects.
"Kiel, listen to me," Aria said, holding his face firmly. "Look me in the eyes..."
He reluctantly met her gaze. She wiped away his tears gently. "I'm sorry, okay? I didn't mean to mention his name. I'm very sorry."
"He's still above me," he cried in anguish. "I will never replace him in your heart."
"No, no, don't think like that," she reassured him, embracing him tightly. "I love you. Yes, you will never be like him, but I love you for who you are. So don't think that you are not enough..."
She knew there was something amiss with Izekiel, something deeper than their conflicts. He carried an inferiority complex and a profound fear of abandonment. He struggled to control his tumultuous emotions.
"You're mine, Aria... you're mine..." he whimpered, seeking solace in her embrace.
.
.
....
Duke Wolfsbane was delighted with the Emperor's signature on the proposal.
'The ministers will be happy about this,' he mused to himself as he walked towards the Palace gate.
Ludwig, his loyal confidant, inquired, "How did you convince him, my Lord?"
"Haha, he can't say no to me. Just tell him that this is for the sake of the empire and the Empress, he will immediately sign it, without hesitation," the Duke explained.
Ludwig offered a smile, masking his growing concern.
"Ah, by the way.." The Duke handed him a small pouch.
"What's this?" Ludwig asked.
"It's the Emperor's new medicine. Make sure that he will always take that, and don't let the Empress know about this," the Duke ordered.
Ludwig stared at the pouch.
Another drug again...
"Yes, Your Grace." he bowed.
The Duke boarded the carriage, and departed from the Palace.
As the carriage rolled away, Ludwig couldn't help but heave a heavy sigh.
'I feel sorry for the Emperor.' he thought to himself.
He had met Izekiel when the Duke took him to Izekiel's mansion. The Duke instructed him to become Izekiel's butler and report all the activities and decisions to him.
Ludwig Adrichem, the eldest son of the late Baron Adrichem from the west, had lost his entire family when they were executed for treason. He managed to escape before the knights arrived and captured his family.
Fleeing to the South, he found himself enslaved. His life took a different course when Duke Wolfsbane purchased him and trained him. He became the Duke's trusted spy, handling sensitive matters and even carrying out covert operations.
Although the Duke had provided for him and taken him under his wing, Ludwig never lost sight of the harsh reality that the Duke was capable of discarding him at any time. In this treacherous world, he couldn't afford to place trust in anyone.