Nathan and I planned to reveal our intentions at dinner.
Nathan’s intent to succeed to the throne.
‘His Majesty may object because of Regis, but there’s still hope… After all, Father said he’d support us over Regis.’
My father, Duke Lubelleris, was one of His Majesty’s most loyal subjects. Even he had declared his support for Nathan.
If we informed His Majesty of this, he would surely listen to us more seriously.
‘Phew… I’m getting nervous… There’s not much time left.’
Time seemed to fly as the moment for the big announcement approached.
As we prepared, the evening soon arrived.
When I finished getting ready and stepped out, Nathan was already waiting for me in the hallway.
He extended his arm as if offering an escort.
“Are we going in arm-in-arm? Everyone’s going to be surprised.”
I couldn’t help but comment, surprised at Nathan’s gesture. His earlobes turned a little red.
Though his expression remained stoic, the reddened ears made him look somewhat cute.
“I’ve never seen a couple walk into an official gathering separately. If we’re going to act the part, linking arms is a must. Besides…”
“Yes, yes, I get it.”
He added two whole excuses for simply offering his arm. If I didn’t stop him, we might end up spending the entire day on explanations.
I cut him off and grabbed his arm.
‘Nathan’s arms are so firm, perfect for holding onto.’
The feel of his muscles under his clothes was pleasant. I couldn’t help but stroke his arm.
He quickly grabbed my hand to stop me.
“We need to go, so don’t provoke me.”
“Provoke you? I was just giving a little pat…”
“Of course it’s provoking. If you keep this up, I might just take you to bed right now.”
His heated voice in my ear didn’t sound like a joke. I quickly stopped touching him.
“O-okay. I’ll stop. Let’s head to dinner now.”
He let out a small sigh, and then led me to the dining hall where we were to meet His Majesty.
As I held onto Nathan’s firm arm, I noticed the courtiers stealing glances as we passed.
‘They’re staring.’
It was only natural. After all, here I was, standing next to Nathan—the same woman who had once been Regis’s fiancée.
It wasn’t surprising that they couldn’t control their curiosity.
Enduring their blatant attention, we finally arrived at the extravagant banquet.
‘Wow…’
Three large crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling.
All the tableware was gold, inlaid with jewels. The food gleamed with an inviting sheen.
The splendor of the Velkinus Empire’s golden age was on full display.
While I was admiring the food, I belatedly noticed Regis’s gaze.
‘Why is he staring at me like that…?’
Uncomfortable under his scrutiny, I tightened my grip on Nathan’s arm.
Nathan promptly pulled me closer to him, and only then did Regis’s eyes shift away.
“You’re all here already.”
We had barely settled when His Majesty’s voice echoed, prompting us to rise.
After greeting him, we all sat down again.
His Majesty wasted no time getting to the point as soon as dinner began.
“I hear you have something important to say, Nathan. Will you tell us now?”
“I’ll speak after the meal. If I say it now, it might spoil everyone’s appetite.”
“Hmm? Sounds like it’s going to be quite the revelation. I look forward to hearing it.”
Though I was eager to spill the news, I held back. The most shocking announcement should always be saved for last.
In the meantime, I sliced into the glossy steak and brought it to my mouth.
A smoky aroma filled my senses. The texture and taste were truly worthy of royal cuisine.
As I indulged, Regis suddenly spoke up.
“Before my brother shares his news, I also have something to say to Claudia.”
“Go ahead.”
Regis’s gaze shifted directly to me.
“I want to apologize again for my earlier slip of the tongue. Although I already said sorry when we were alone, I thought it best to do so publicly as well.”
Regis was a perfectionist when it came to maintaining his image.
Handsome, intelligent, and possessing a gentle demeanor—the ideal ruler.
He was very cautious about anything that could tarnish that image.
‘A public apology? As I thought, he’s concerned about his reputation. If word got out that he insulted me as a loose woman, it would be a significant blow.’
Regardless, I had only one response in this situation.
“I accept your apology. I’m fine now, Your Highness.”
Only then did he flash a satisfied smile.
At that moment, Nathan abruptly interrupted.
“You were alone with her earlier?”
He furrowed his brow, glancing between me and Regis.
It seemed he had misunderstood.
I was about to explain that we had merely crossed paths in the hallway, but Regis beat me to it.
“Did Claudia not tell you?”
“…She didn’t.”
As Nathan’s displeasure became evident, Regis shifted the blame onto me.
“Claudia, why didn’t you tell him about something so important? I thought the two of you didn’t keep secrets from each other.”
In that instant, I realized just how cunning Regis was, and how much resentment he held towards me.
Feeling cornered, I quickly turned to Nathan and explained.
“I just didn’t have the chance to mention it yet. I was going to tell you today. Besides, it wasn’t really a private encounter… we just ran into each other in the hallway.”
“….”
Even with my explanation, Nathan’s displeasure didn’t fully fade.
He expressed his frustration by tightly gripping my hand under the table.
He probably felt betrayed, thinking we were on the same team, only for me to keep something from him.
‘Phew… Looks like I’ll have to explain things to Nathan later, all thanks to that irritating Regis.’
From His Majesty’s perspective, though, we must have looked like a harmonious couple.
He chuckled warmly before turning to Regis with a question.
“By the way, Regis, do you have anyone in mind as a future wife?”
“Yes, Father.”
“Who is it?”
“Naila. She’s gentle and well-mannered, perfectly suited for the position of Empress.”
His Majesty didn’t seem particularly surprised. He probably had an inkling that Regis would choose Naila.
‘Naila as Empress…? How presumptuous.’
Regis clearly believed that inheriting the throne was a given.
So much so that he was already certain the woman he chose would naturally become Empress.
‘I wonder what expression he’ll make when he realizes he might not become Emperor after all.’
It was a tantalizing thought.
As I grew weary of waiting, His Majesty finally spoke.
“I respect your choice, Regis. However, marriage isn’t something you can decide on your own. Even if Naila accepts your proposal, there’s the issue of becoming in-laws with Nathan and Claudia. Do the two of you agree with this?”
I hadn’t expected His Majesty to ask for my opinion.
It wasn’t just me—everyone looked surprised.
Regis, in particular, seemed irritated.
“This is my marriage. I don’t see why we need my brother and Claudia’s approval.”
“It’s not just any marriage; it’s a matter of becoming in-laws. I don’t think Nathan and Claudia would be entirely thrilled about it. Since Nathan made his decision first, if the two of them don’t agree, you’ll have to reconsider.”
“Father!”
At last, Regis’s thick mask of politeness cracked.
He raised his voice, seething with frustration.
“I’m the future Emperor! And you’re telling me I can’t even choose my own wife? I’m not asking to take someone else’s wife. Are we really going to let this all fall apart over the mere issue of becoming in-laws?”
“Regis.”
His Majesty’s stern voice cut through Regis’s outburst.
“Nathan has already made many concessions for you.”
That rebuke seemed to have some effect. Regis, still fuming, stole a glance at Nathan before begrudgingly sitting back down.
But the look in his eyes showed he wasn’t entirely convinced.
If Nathan opposed him, Regis would surely lash out again.
Once Regis had calmed down, His Majesty turned back to us.
“So, what do you two think?”
Nathan and I exchanged a brief look, silently communicating our thoughts.
It was amazing how just one glance was enough to understand his intentions.
After a brief moment, Nathan spoke on our behalf.
“We have no objections if Regis chooses Naila.”
“Oh, that’s a relief. What about you, Claudia…?”
“However.”
Nathan interrupted His Majesty and dabbed his lips with a napkin.
His Majesty, Regis, and everyone else paused to look at him.
“However, I cannot agree with the idea of Naila becoming Empress.”
“…What do you mean? You’re fine with her marrying Regis, but you don’t agree with her becoming Empress?”
If Regis were to inherit the throne, Naila would naturally become Empress.
‘If he inherits the throne,’ that was Nathan’s underlying message.
“You’ll have to think carefully about what you’re doing, Regis.”
Nathan’s expression darkened, and he leaned slightly forward.
Regis appeared taken aback. He hadn’t expected Nathan to be so assertive.
“Just because you’re my brother doesn’t mean you can dictate my choices,” Regis snapped.
“I’m not trying to dictate anything. I’m merely suggesting you reconsider who you choose as your future wife.”
“Why is that? Are you doubting Naila’s capabilities?”
Nathan shook his head slowly, maintaining his composure.
“I believe Naila is excellent, but the issue lies elsewhere. She may not suit the role of Empress. You must understand the importance of this decision. An Empress is not just a title; she must possess the qualities and influence necessary for the position.”
His Majesty nodded in agreement, reinforcing Nathan’s point.
“That’s true, Regis. The role of Empress carries significant weight and responsibilities. You should choose wisely.”
Regis clenched his fists, frustration evident on his face.
“I have my reasons for wanting to marry Naila. She is gentle and will complement my reign perfectly. Isn’t that what matters?”
“Regis, being an Empress requires more than just gentleness. There are politics to consider, alliances to forge. You need someone who can handle the complexities of ruling alongside you,” Nathan replied.
“It’s not just about ruling, either. The future of the Empire is at stake.”
Regis glanced around the table, sensing the growing tension among us.
“What do you think, Claudia? Do you think Naila would be a suitable Empress?”
All eyes turned to me.
‘Why are they asking me?’
Caught off guard, I stammered, “Uh, um, well…”
I could feel Nathan’s gaze urging me to be careful with my words.
“I think Naila is kind and compassionate. She would likely be a supportive partner to Regis.”
“That’s not what I asked!” Regis pressed.
“But…”
As I searched for the right words, Nathan spoke again.
“I think she might be a great consort but lacks the ability to navigate the political intricacies that come with the title of Empress.”
“I don’t believe that’s true!” Regis argued, growing defensive.
“Naila is strong-willed and intelligent. Just because she’s gentle doesn’t mean she can’t handle politics.”
“Perhaps. But ruling requires a different skill set entirely,” Nathan responded coolly.
Regis scowled, realizing his point was being challenged.
“Then what are you suggesting?” he asked, a hint of frustration in his tone.
“I’m not suggesting you abandon Naila, but rather that you consider a different path. There are many factors that come into play, and it would be wise to think it through.”
Regis glared at Nathan, then at me, before dropping his gaze to his plate.
“Fine. I’ll think about it,” he finally muttered, though the anger still lingered in his voice.
His Majesty took a deep breath and addressed us.
“Let’s put this matter aside for now and enjoy the meal.”
I took a moment to observe everyone at the table.
The mood was tense, and I could feel the uncertainty lingering in the air.
As dinner continued, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this conversation was far from over.
Once dessert was served, Nathan cleared his throat, gaining everyone’s attention.
“It’s time for me to share what I’ve been waiting to say.”
Regis and His Majesty leaned forward, curiosity piqued.
“I, Nathan Lubelleris, have decided to pursue the throne alongside Claudia.”
“What?” Regis exclaimed, shock evident on his face.
His Majesty’s brows furrowed, contemplating Nathan’s words.
“The throne? With Claudia?”
Nathan nodded firmly.
“We believe our union would bring stability to the Empire. I have my father’s support, and I believe Claudia is the right partner for me.”
The atmosphere shifted dramatically.
“This is… unexpected,” His Majesty admitted, his tone cautious.
“I thought you were going to marry someone else,” Regis interjected, his voice laced with disbelief.
“We are.”
“N-no, you can’t,” Regis stammered, a hint of desperation creeping into his voice.
“Regis, I don’t think you fully understand the implications of this decision,” Nathan replied, his tone steady.
“I can’t just sit back and let this happen!” Regis retorted, his composure crumbling.
“This is a serious matter. We’re talking about the future of the Empire,” Nathan countered, his expression unyielding.
“What do you mean, ‘future of the Empire’? You’re choosing her over me?” Regis’s voice was rising.
“It’s not about choosing. It’s about what’s best for the Empire,” Nathan insisted.
“Best for the Empire? You think Claudia, who has barely any experience, can handle that?”
“More than you think. She possesses the strength and intelligence needed to lead.”
“Enough!” His Majesty’s voice boomed across the table, silencing the arguments.
“Regis, you need to calm down. Nathan, I appreciate your dedication to the Empire, but this decision should not be taken lightly.”
With the tension palpable, I took a breath, feeling the weight of their expectations.
“Your Majesty, if I may speak,” I said carefully, gathering my thoughts.
Everyone turned to me, their expressions a mix of hope and skepticism.
“I understand the significance of this moment and the responsibilities that come with it. I want to assure you that I will do everything in my power to support Nathan and our Empire.”
“But can you truly handle it?” Regis challenged, his gaze piercing.
“I may not have experience, but I’m willing to learn and grow. Together, Nathan and I can bring about positive change,” I asserted, my voice steady despite the uncertainty swirling around us.
“I’ll back her up,” Nathan added, his eyes meeting mine, filled with determination.
“Very well,” His Majesty replied, his voice calming.
“I will support you both, but understand that this will not be an easy path. The challenges ahead will be great.”
Regis sat back in his chair, clearly displeased, but he remained silent.
“Thank you, Your Majesty,” Nathan said, relief evident in his expression.
Dinner resumed, but the air was thick with unspoken words.
I couldn’t shake the feeling that we had entered a storm, and the real battle was only just beginning.
