The crown prince election becomes the main talk in Ardiane, including in our manor. During lunch, we dine together like always. My parents, Julian, and Yuri discuss who’s the most suitable person for the throne. “Prince Adam would be perfect for the position. He’s wise in decision making and cares the folks the most.” Mom states. “I agree with Mother. His Highness is an excellent choice.” Yuri agrees with Mom’s opinion. “No. Prince Aiden fits better. He’s a magic student graduate from Fyn empire.” Dad voices his opinion. “Dad… We’re talking about the next emperor. Not the next empire’s high-ranking mage.” Julian reminds, cutting his meat steak. We all know how much Dad admires mages. I wonder how he’ll react to knowing I’m a liv. “Besides, Prince Azher should sit on the throne. He invented multiple useful inventions and is a prodigy swordsman. He even defeated the capital bandits. Ardiane would be strong when the emperor himself is strong.” Ju

“Not really. This is the first time I got to look around properly.” “Don’t you think you’ve bought too much? Can you finish all that?” He points to the countless different types of food I’m carrying. “Who said anything about eating?” I smirk. “Hmm?” Azher hums curiously. I walk towards a secluded street where the poor are. Even in the capital, many people are staying in the streets and have struggled to find food. Especially orphans and elders. For a noble to contribute free food for them personally is a rare, no. A once in a millennium sight. Not to say if it’s a prince. This will surely increase Azher’s qualification as the crown prince! “What are you standing there for? Come help me give these out!” I invite and wave at him.   *****   ‘She’s really…’ I shake my head, a grin on my face. Airis is eagerly waving and calling me to join her. Right when I stand beside her, she shoves a ful

He put off his mask. A sweet smile crafts on his face. Though I’ve confirmed he’s Saikeo, I can’t let my guard down. “Why does the capital’s famous hero wants to be my knight? It’d be more beneficial if you reveal yourself or become His Majesty’s personal bodyguard.” “The truth is…” His finger scratches his cheek shyly. “I became Saikeo because I want to get my lady’s attention.” “Huh?” I gasp again, squinting very hard due to the bewilderment. What sick joke is this? “I’m well informed that many knights have asked the honor to be my lady’s knight and you rejected them all. But… I still want to try my luck.” “And what makes you think I wouldn’t do the same?” I ask, folding my arms. “If my lady grants me a chance, I will prove to you that I’m useful.” “Everyone is useful. Heroes teach people to do good while criminals set up as the repercussion of doing bad things for youngsters to not follow.” I remark. “I know how my lady has

“Red Arum.” Aiden keeps his answer short. “What? Isn’t that like… super-duper rare?” Red Arum is a very deadly poison produced from the world’s smelliest flower, Rilian Arum. It doesn’t take effect right after being consumed – eat, drink or sniff. The poison will slowly spread throughout the victim’s body within a week or two. After that, the victim will often feel dizzy and slowly lose his five senses within 3 months. Usually, the victim will die at that rate, but if he’s still alive, the blood vessels in his brain will burst, causing death. Simply put, the victim wouldn’t even know he’s dying inside within 3 months after consuming Red Arum. “Yes. You’re not affected by the poison, right?” Aiden’s eyes turn concerned. “I’m here, aren’t I?” He smiles “I was worried because you sensed the poison.” “Still, I’m not convinced. What if-” “I haven’t congratulated you on receiving an award during the parade. What was it again? Oddest

The small party ends shortly right before evening. I knew how hard they worked to prepare this, so I insist on cleaning it up. They all objected at first, but because of my hard-headed persistence, they eventually give in. Well… it’s not like I’m cleaning up alone. Theron offered to help, though her true intention is clearly to eat Yuri’s leftover pastries. As I’m picking up the empty porcelains and plates, somebody snatches it all from my hand. Looking up, it’s Killian. “Eh? Why are you here?” I ask. Before he can answer, a group of maids appears and clean up the rest. Killian passes the empty porcelains and plates to them. “Allow us to clean this up, my lady.” The head of the maid offers, hands placed behind her back. “I can do it.” “My lady, His Grace will be furious if he knew my lady cleaned these.” She reasons. Well, knowing Dad, she has a point. “…Alright. I’ll leave these to you.” I say, giving her a pat on the shoulder