Chapter 94

The atmosphere in the reception room, filled with warm autumn sunlight, was as precarious as walking across thin ice that could break at any moment.

If Marlen stormed out right now and told the Emperor or Roen what Charles was plotting, everything would be over!

But it did not matter. Like foolish women blinded by love or revenge, Marlen would be unable to stop herself from taking his hand.

“I’m not the Crown Princess, but even if I take Your Highness’s side, wouldn’t I gain nothing if you fail to achieve your goal?”

Marlen took a sip of tea and replied in a chilly tone.

“…My lady, shouldn’t you be hoping that I achieve my goal?”

Did he really have to explain even this? Charles found her utterly pathetic, but once again, he exercised patience.

“Your father is already on my side, as both my brother and the Emperor—and even those insignificant nobles in that remote corner of the Empire—know. Do you really want me to fail? If my brother takes that position, your family, which does not even possess a decent territory, will soon be forgotten.”

“Th-that….”

“Do you seriously think my brother will show mercy and look after your family? My lady, think about why you became a wallflower! If he had been a man of such stature, he would not have driven you out of Santpol like that after you abandoned your father and followed him. But that was not the extent of your foolishness. Because you joined the pilgrimage against the Viscount’s orders without even knowing what kind of person my brother was, you put the Viscount in a difficult position. So, my lady, think carefully before you answer. I am offering you one last hand, granting your wish while giving your family a chance to survive.”...