Chapter 274 - Not Him Again

Unfortunately, he was banned from participation for this very reason. It was a bit disappointing as I was interested in the reward—the emperor was offering the Flower of the Underworld’s Goddess. It was one of the empire’s treasures, and the people were excited as it was a necklace made of a rare mineral that only existed deep underground. Many people participated for their lady’s honor and won prizes for their lady—I wondered who would take the honor for a moment, then I quickly concluded it wouldn’t be my family.

Although I treated the knights of our household as those who received wages without much effort, they were renowned for their swordsmanship. I was confident they could win the competition, but Dad had given them strict orders—likely because of the warning from Max.

“Don’t do anything that would pique the emperor’s interest,” I had heard Dad say the other day. For that reason, it was likely that the knights would be aiming for second or third place. They seemed slightly down for the past few days…

I was thinking of what I could do for them when Merilyn called, “My lady, there’s a guest for you.”

‘Is it Max?’ At the sudden news, I rushed to the mirror to check my appearance. ‘Acceptable.’ I calmed my quivering heart and opened the door. Nonetheless, it was only Merilyn who was standing before me. I wondered where he was since he had promised to visit me in a week. Suppressing my disappointment, I asked, “Who is the guest?”

To my question, Marilyn looked at me with a troubled expression and answered, “Oh… Lord Elios has visited.”

He was an unwelcome guest. Nonetheless, it was my duty to welcome him in the absence of my father. “All right.” I sighed and followed Merilyn to the drawing room.

* * *

The sword, which had been traveling in a straight path, suddenly bent its trajectory, drawing a curve. Gritting his teeth, Max barely managed to fend off the attack. ‘He is disgustingly strong, but…’ Max had not been able to follow the swift blade at first. Now, however, he could make out some of its movements. Meeting his master’s blade, Max attempted a counterattack. ‘It seems I’m not far away from achieving transcendence.’ As he realized he could protect Jubelian from danger and receive approval from his master, the corners of Max’s lips rose.

“I told you to remain vigilant.”

At the eerie voice which came from behind him, Max’s face crumpled. ‘Damn it! When will I be able to catch up to him?!’

* * *

Glaring at Lord Elios, who was sipping his tea in front of me, I demanded, “So, that is why you have come to see me?”

He set down his teacup gracefully before answering my question. “Oh? I thought I would receive praise for coming to see you, but judging by your expression… Hmm, interesting. I am sure I have resolved this issue without harming your precious people.”

Irritated, I spat out, “Just be grateful that I did not claim compensation for the persecution of our residents. The criminals escaped your estate due to negligence on your part.” I expected him to be offended by my comment, but Lord Elios showed a smile. It was as if he had been waiting for my criticism.

“Oh no, it looks like I will have to pay compensation for the damage then.”

“There’s no need—” I began, wanting to end this discussion as soon as possible. However, he cut me off.

“Because you are so angry, I have no choice but to offer the Flower of the Underworld’s Goddess to you.”

My eyes widened at his serious tone. What he said was…

Aghast, I asked, “Are you proposing to me?”