Maxwell looked toward the road ahead. He had already given his blood to the sword.If that was what it took to keep Liora safe, he was willing to give more. “If necessary…” He tightened his grip. “I’ll give you all my blood. Just save her!” The guards stared at him in confusion. None of them understood what was happening, but they could clearly see the strange light surrounding the sword and the blood running from Maxwell’s hand. "What had happened?" Maxwell ignored their questions. His attention remained fixed on the transparent screen rushing with his horses. Liora was still hiding beside the table, holding the chair tightly while the wind continued to rage around her. Maxwell could finally breathe again. She was safe. For now. But he knew he could not remain at a di

The Emperor looked at her calmly. “I have heard everything your servants reported, but I don't deal with romance, only politics! What bring you here then, Shera?”A faint, almost mischievous smile appeared on his face. "Am I still your dear sister?"  Shera pouted coquettishly. “You really are too spoiled, Shera. You always come to me whenever you have a problem and expect me to solve it for you. But I don't know how to handle romance.” Shera frowned. “I only need you to help me this once.” “Do you?” The Emperor leaned back in his seat. He let out a tired sigh, looking utterly exhausted. Even the consorts in his own kingdom were constantly giving him one complaint after another. He was beginning to feel thoroughly irritated. “Perhaps instead of constantly asking me to remove every woman who stands in your way, you s

He looked at her. “Did the Emperor send an invitation for you today?” Liora shook her head. “Not that I know of.” Maxwell remained silent. Then he slowly exhaled. “All right. I'll deal with it.” “What do you mean?” “I'll have someone investigate first. If anyone from the palace comes here to summon you, you don't go anywhere until I give permission.” Liora nodded. “Okay.” Maxwell leaned down and kissed her forehead. “Promise me.” “I promise, my husband.” Just as Maxwell was about to leave, a knock came from the door. One of the guards announced that an envoy from the Imperial Palace had arrived with a message for the Duchess. Liora looked toward the door in surprise, while Maxwell remained unusually cal

Liora smiled as she turned toward him. “Flowers make me happy. They don't need to be grand or rare. Even the simplest flowers can make a garden feel alive.” The Emperor glanced at the flower bed. “Oh, you prefer simple flowers?” “I appreciate all flowers, Your Highness,” Liora replied with a soft laugh. “But sometimes the flowers that receive the least attention are the ones that surprise you the most when they bloom.” "Least attention?"Liora gave a small nod and continued explaining, but the Emperor barely heard a word she said. His attention remained fixed on her, completely absorbed by the graceful woman standing before him. At that very moment, time seemed to stand still. Everyone around the Emperor seemed to fade away, leaving only Liora in his sight. Without even realizing it, the Emperor found himself completely captivated by her presence

Not far from the imperial gardens, Shera had already placed one of her trusted people to watch the situation for her. She had no intention of waiting patiently for events to unfold without knowing what was happening. The moment Liora entered the Imperial Palace, Shera had made sure that someone would keep an eye on every important development and report everything back to her. By late afternoon, the information finally reached her."The Emperor had invited Liora to stay for dinner." Shera's lips slowly curved into a mysterious smile."So it is going exactly as I expected." Her attendant lowered her head respectfully. "Yes, Your Highness. His Majesty has asked Duchess Liora to remain in the palace for the evening. He has also ordered preparations for her to bath and change into suitable clothes for the banquet." Shera's smile deepened. She had been waiting for this o