Is your body still feeling unwell?
Vilian looked at Serafina and said softly. Serafina looked confused.
The worried concern made her sober.
I'm sorry, Your Majesty. What did you say?
Vilian widened his eyes and looked at Serafina.
It seems that you have already lost the dignity of being a member of the royal family. Look at the disgraceful state you are in front of the guests now.
Unable to tolerate her Melansa finally spoke up.
I'm sorry...I apologize.
Serafina looked puzzled, apologized obediently, and Melansa showed a surprised expression. Vilian too. Usually, when Melansa launches an attack, Serafina would apologize in a stiff tone, and the atmosphere would become tense. Vilian always mediates between the two, but today Serafina unexpectedly behaved well, leaving Melansa speechless.
I am fine.
Upon hearing the man's voice, Serafina lifted her head. Across the table, the face of the man sitting opposite her came into view. It was Samuel Hale. He looked at Serafina inexplicably.
Because I know the princess is feeling unwell.
The blue-green eyes stared at Serafina persistently. Although she felt angry about the intense gaze, she didn't have time to be angry. The cutlery that should have been diligently moving has been motionless since a moment ago.
Serafina, if your stomach is uncomfortable...
Did you also disrespect Duke Archibald yesterday?
Vilian's concern was blocked by Melansa. Melansa had to face Samuel Hale and Serafina, because she ran away yesterday. Serafina is going to the monastery, but Melansa insists on pretending to confirm something. Maybe because she doesn't trust her.
Do you want to go back to the palace and rest first?
No, it's okay.
Serafina gave a faint smile. However, her heart was deeply troubled. Who did you sleep with? And how to deal with this in the future. But first, she had the wrong target.
Ward.
When Ward was asked if he slept with her, his shocked face still appeared in Serafina's mind. This was one of the few foolish things she had done in her life. However, because it happened yesterday, even if she wanted to forget, it would still appear more clearly in her mind.
Didn't...just consider it as a rumor.'
At that time, if the calm Ward didn't say so, she might have wanted to shut up forever.
Upon further thought, my head still throbs. This is tantamount to exposing one's flaws to someone who knows nothing. Fortunately, Ward seems to be keeping quiet. Otherwise, Melansa, who is sensitive to rumors, would not be indifferent. Melansa now, as usual, wears a dissatisfied expression on her face.
Serafina listened to the conversation between Vilian and Melansa.
It is said that the provincial bureau is preparing to send Rachel.
Rachel?
Yes, mother. It's natural to be troubled by encountering a black magician. The provincial bureau has also shown unusual concern for Duke Archibald this time.
Is that so? Not bad.
I think the Pope will 'bless' the Duke.
Blessing? Serafina's eyes widened. Blessing is the greatest honor that can be bestowed by the ruler of the Holy Kingdom, the Pope, aside from canonization. Only the chosen one, 'Joshua,' who is trusted by the Pope, can receive this 'blessing.' Once one receives this 'blessing,' God's protection is engraved upon them. Whether it is a minor illness or a serious injury, even wounds can quickly heal.
Moreover, blessings have more than just a simple effect. He is recognized as a holy citizen and can freely enter and exit the holy country. Even if he commits a crime and becomes a criminal, from the moment he steps into the holy country's border, the Pope will protect him in his own name. Although he is not respected like a saint, he is also guarded as a child of God.
Is the sweep of the dark wizards such a satisfying thing? Serafina frowned and thought seriously. Then she remembered that he had obtained the holy sword, and it all made sense.
The older generation of dukes received blessings, even the duke received blessings. The father of the duke in heaven will also be happy.
One patrol, Melansa's eyes flashed. Looking at the bright smile on her face, Serafina frowned slightly. Why was that woman happy about Duke Archibald's blessing?
I didn't do anything.
The Duke Archibald said stiffly. Despite his humble attitude, he did not appear despicable. Although his eyes widened at the word 'blessing', his attitude was 'I don't need that'. Of course, Serafina was not interested in his elegant humility and the like.
To defy the divine will and serve the demon god, those who bring chaos to the nation, it is only natural for the nobles, who are an integral part of the country, to embark on a crusade.
Meanwhile, Serafina pondered alone with a serious expression on her face.
Of course, the Pope detests black magic. But even though the curse on oneself is temporary, it has been branded with the mark of Asmodius. What should I do if High Priest Rachel discovers this? What if she suspects a connection between me and the demon? Then I would no longer be a mere spectator on the guillotine, but the protagonist.
Serafina was extremely distressed, not even knowing where to look with her pair of emerald green eyes. Ever since being cursed by Asmodius, nothing good has happened. This life is damn miserable.
Then, Melansa and Serafina talked.
What does the princess think?
What?
Does the princess also think that Duke Archibald is worthy of blessings?
Of course, I think this is necessary. To curse others and bribe evil women who hire black magicians, and to arrest them with the old Duke ... This time too. Duke Archibald has great insights into eliminating black magicians.
Serafina's heartbeat was very fast. Melansa's words referred to her mom, and Serafina was very clear about it. Serafina saw the expression of Melansa mocking herself. This was obviously meant to provoke her.
Princess, are you going back because you feel unwell again?
Melansa teased Serafina, implying 'Are you going to run away again?' Anyway, Serafina was originally a dog that lost in a fight. But there was no need to trample and mock her like this in front of Samuel Hale.
Serafina clenched her fists. Vilian was looking at Melansa's expression, while Melansa was smiling. The attendants, servants, and maids who were practicing cultivation couldn't help but be curious about this overwhelming situation, and one by one they looked at the princess.
Serafina suddenly felt out of breath.
I want to get up now.
At this moment, she heard the chair being pushed and squeezed. Serafina reflexively looked across. It was Samuel Hale, not her. The banquet attended by everyone was personally hosted by the king. Leaving the seat first was a rude behavior, and could even be considered disrespectful to the king.
Duke Archibald?
Melansa asked with doubt. Duke Archibald responded with an elegant smile on his face.
Because of poor health.
What is this...
Wouldn't His Majesty and Your Highness understand the reasons better?
Duke Archibald.
Even if archibald swears allegiance, he has never sworn to be a tool.
Harassment tool, Your Highness.
Duke Archibald looked at Queen Dowager with a faint smile. The smile on his elegant face was impeccable.
I'm sorry, I am greatly disappointed in Your Majesty.
He even placed one hand on his chest and bowed to Vilian. Bowing at an undesignated time was very humiliating. He spoke disrespectfully to Melansa, but was very respectful to Vilian.
Your Majesty!
Melansa wanted to say something, but Vilian shook his head. Vilian said firmly.
No. The rude party does not seem to be the duke. Thank you for honestly telling me about your inconvenience. This will not harm our relationship.
Vilian's face even had a smile. Even the unbeatable Vilian felt uneasy in the current atmosphere. Vilian and Samuel Hale communicated against Melansa's wishes, causing Melansa's face to turn pale.
... ... Your Majesty, then, may I also make another request?
What?
Please allow me to escort the princess to her residence.
Serafina suddenly saw herself being identified and widened her eyes. In an instant, her face was filled with disgust. Vilian looked at Serafina with warm blue eyes. He spoke with an unclear expression, and it was unclear what he was thinking.
Please take good care of my sister.
*
Holding samuelhale's hand, they walked out of the corridor. Several nobles who were still in the palace widened their eyes. Then, Serafina let go of samuelhale's hand. As soon as their hands separated, Serafina's hand became cold. She realized that samuelhale's hand was warm.
That's it.
Princess.
You don't have to worry about my body.
...
Thank you... Should I say this?
Serafina has her back turned to him, leaving behind a cold sneer. Even if it's not Samuel Hale, she still has a lot to worry about. Fortunately, Samuel Hale didn't want to force her to stay.
Feeling like I can still survive. Serafina quickened her pace, walking without even looking back.
Why don't you just go to the garden and take a look?
Serafina frowned and muttered to herself. She was in a panic yesterday and didn't have time to think, but maybe she could remember by going to the garden again. Why didn't you think of that? Instead of sighing and feeling miserable in the room, it's better to move around.
At that moment, she still remembered how beautiful the roses bloomed even in winter. Although the gardeners were negligent in their management, even with a few weeds, it did not change the preciousness of this place. Serafina never even thought about being intimate with a man who couldn't even remember her face here.
Mother built a garden near the rarely visited palace, perhaps to protect a secret. Maybe because she knew it would be like this, she built a garden in the palace.
Princess.
Hearing the sound coming, Serafina widened her eyes. Turning around, a big figure was approaching. It was dark, perhaps because of his stature, he stood out.
When he stood in front of Serafina, she had to lift her head for a while. I saw the firm jaw and tightly closed mouth. The dark red eyes looked at her. It was Ward.
Is there something you need?
Serafina asked with confusion. Does Ward have something for me to do? There is neither a pretended intimate relationship nor a business connection between them. But why?
Only strange silence lingers between them. Serafina feels he is very awkward. Don't tell me you're here to steal something. She dismissed the thought and asked.
If you are thinking about my slip of the tongue yesterday, shouldn't you forget it? Is there anything else you want to say?
Serafina was momentarily speechless. Her words were icy cold.
Because there was no one to protect the princess, that's why it was done this way.
Guard ?
Yes.
No need to say these things now ... ...
She sneered coldly. As long as there is a guard knight working normally, she would not be kidnapped like that on the same day. Trembling with fear, when she was branded and returned to the tent, she had to swallow her tears for a while.
If you are willing, I will now escort the princess.
However, Ward seemed to feel responsible. He immediately prepared to kneel down. Serafina sighed.
At that time, didn't I also say it? Being escorted by a knight without proper identity is an insult to me. That's why I insulted you like this.
After speaking, Serafina clenched her fists tightly. Her hands were trembling, but she tried to conceal the wavering tone. Her hard dark red eyes stared at the swaying lake blue eyes.
I once thought that the princess would insult me.
...
However ... ...
Princess!
Just as Ward was preparing to continue, he heard a voice. It was Samuel Hale. Why are you following me? She shouted as she looked at the man chasing after her with a worried expression.
Do you still need to meet His Grace the Duke today?
Ward asked in a low voice. The deep voice made people feel somewhat creepy.
Today is also ?
Two days passed before seeing Samuel Hale. 'Today also.' Is this sentence ungrammatical? It was time for her to feel surprised by Ward's words.
Did you also meet that person that day?
What ... ...
Serafina looked at Samuel Hale, who was getting closer and closer. He also had a troubled expression like Serafina. There was clearly dissatisfaction in his green eyes. In an instant, a scene flashed through Serafina's mind.
The pain of being penetrated for the first time during sex, the hair held is clearly brown. Licked the tears that flowed down, the color of the eyes is clearly green. He smiled cutely. That face is very cute, lightly kissed the lips, he laughed extremely happily. ... Just like that hazy past ...
In the fragrant scent of flowers and the refreshing aroma of tree leaves, the man who matched her memories was clearly...
Obviously, it is Samuel Hale.