IDED | Chapter 101

Episode 101

As if retracing the fleeting touch of his lips, Serena brushed her forehead lightly. She couldn’t fathom what to say whenever he made such absurd yet sincere remarks.

What’s going to happen to this empire, really?

Serena was genuinely concerned about the future of the empire. It felt as though, if anyone were to be singled out here, he would uncover every accusation possible, valid or not, and give them a thorough punishment.

“I’ll decline.”

I have no intention of being remembered as the most infamous enchantress who bewitched the emperor.

When Serena firmly refused, Azaid gently touched her cheek, as if reluctant to let go. At his tender gesture, Serena chuckled softly, murmuring almost unconsciously.

“Still, I’ve been thinking that for Your Majesty’s sake, I should attend a few social gatherings.”

After all, he was the emperor. Now that she was his partner, it wasn’t easy to overlook such matters. She thought she should be cautious about her actions moving forward, ensuring they matched her role.

Azaid’s gaze softened, and he lightly bumped his forehead against hers, softly scolding her.

“You’ve been worrying about unnecessary things.”

Though his tone was gentle, there was an undertone of apology in his voice. He hadn’t realized Serena felt burdened by such thoughts.

Azaid had the power to let Serena live as herself.

He had no intention of letting her be crushed by the weight of being by the emperor’s side or preventing her from pursuing what she wanted to do.

Feeling it was the right moment to explain himself clearly, Azaid sat beside her and said:

“I have no intention of interfering with your life or tying you down just because I’m the emperor.”

“I know, but…”

“Just live as you always have, doing what you want, Serena.”

Azaid held Serena’s hand firmly and brought it to his lips. His warm touch grazed the back of her hand before retreating.

“Whatever it is, I’ll support you. I have the power to do so.”

Serena held her breath at his words, which felt like a vow. Unconsciously, she had thought she should naturally become someone who belonged at his side.

The position beside the emperor was not a light one. Yet Azaid told her he wished most for her to achieve her own desires.

His resolve to simply stay by her side and respect her life filled her with gratitude.

“Do you realize you’re being quite charming right now?”

“I’m just stating the obvious.”

“Thank you.”

I must have chosen the right man.

Serena whispered the last part softly, so only Azade could hear. He chuckled lightly, holding her hand tighter.

“All I want is for you to stay by my side.”

“What if I run away?”

“Then I’ll become the most notorious tyrant in history. If you want to see me go mad, go ahead, Serena.”

Azaid gripped her hand tightly, as if he didn’t even want to imagine the scenario. His reassuring hold made Serena feel secure. She brought his hand to her lips and murmured.

“The empire’s future depends on me, doesn’t it?”

“Yes. So don’t even think about leaving.”

“Where would I go, leaving behind such a great position? Especially when I have someone who lets me do whatever I want.”

Honestly, even if he locked her away and let her do everything she desired, Serena thought she might still enjoy it.

After all, it was Azaid who had made her passionate about something other than work for the first time.

Serena, like Azaid, had a strong possessive streak, so she had no intention of leaving his side.

Azaid let out a soft laugh at her bold response.

“Now that’s the Serena I know.”

He had long been captivated by her confidence. If she ever shrank back under the weight of her role, it would worry him far more.

Leonard and Marie, who had been silently observing the couple’s affection, muttered to themselves.

It seems they’ve forgotten we’re here.

Watching their master and his beloved sharing such sweet moments made them feel both pleased and slightly exasperated. If they’re going to act like this, why don’t they just get married already?

Well, it looks like it won’t be long now.

Marie, moved by how well Serena and Azaid’s relationship was progressing, smiled brightly. The empire would soon welcome the long-awaited empress.

Noticing the couple’s affectionate gazes, Leonard and Marie tactfully stepped away, deciding to leave them to their sweet moment.

***

Some time later, Lucy came to visit Serena. Ever since discovering that Lucy was actually Daniel, the two had grown significantly closer.

Especially since Lucy, who was familiar with high society, had a lot to teach Serena, who wasn’t well-acquainted with it. When Lucy heard that invitations had poured in, she chuckled softly and said:

“Ah, they’re all changing their positions.”

“Changing positions?”

“Lately, there’s been a rumor going around that the Duke of Greenwood and Ophelia Greenwood aren’t on good terms.”

“Really?”

Ophelia was the Duke’s only biological daughter. She was rumored to be very beautiful, but suddenly, something seemed to have happened that was unclear.

Seeing Serena’s confused expression, Lucy casually continued:

“Originally, the children of the Greenwoods are nothing more than decorative figures without the Duke’s support.”

She then took a calm sip of tea, as if stating the obvious.

Since the Greenwoods had a unique way of selecting heirs, the Duke’s support was nearly absolute.

Ophelia, being the daughter of the Duchess, was given a bit more consideration. Lucy, chewing on a brownie, continued:

“I know it’s unpleasant to hear, right? A family that treats people like objects. I’m not exactly fond of it myself.”

“Is that why she’s been hardly seen these days?”

“Even though her standing has weakened, there are still many nobles who support her. But since the Greenwood young lady isn’t showing much initiative, attention is gradually shifting to you, Miss Serena.”

“Suddenly, I feel a bit sorry for the Greenwood young lady. She only has people like bats around her.”

“Well, connections in high society are all about money and influence.”

“That’s true.”

“So, be careful. There’s no easier prey in high society than someone like you, Miss Serena, without any backing.”

Until now, people had avoided approaching Serena out of consideration for Ophelia, but now things were different.

Serena, the illegitimate child of the Vincent family and lover of the Emperor, was like a jewel everyone desperately wanted.

Who calls high society graceful? It’s like a beautiful swan paddling hard beneath the surface—contradictory in nature.

Serena wore a serious expression for a long time, but Lucy, as if it didn’t matter, casually asked:

“By the way, Miss Serena, how does it feel to be the new Head of the Imperial Palace?”

Serena awkwardly smiled at the sudden mention of the promotion.

“Well, nothing really changes. It’s just that my authority has been slightly elevated in the work I’ve always done.”

After a brief discussion with Azaid about what to do next, a drastic reshuffling had taken place.

Normally, the Empress’s position, being vacant for a long time, would have called for a quick coronation.

However, Serena was cautious about making hasty decisions. Perhaps it would have been easier if she had no memory of her past life? Probably, but it was still difficult.

Knowing Azaid’s future made Serena’s heart even more complicated. If Azaid were to meet the same untimely death as in his previous life, what would happen to Serena?

If she became the Empress, no one would blame her for his death. Perhaps, without regressing, she could live the quiet, long life she once hoped for.

But was that really the life she wanted?

Absolutely not. Her goal had long since changed to saving Azaid.

She had no desire to live a life of luxury in a world without him.

‘I will save him.’

Serena made a vow to herself, promising just as she had the first time they met in this life.

— Whenever you’re ready, let me know. The Empress position is basically already yours.

— Then, may I answer after the year we originally agreed upon, Your Majesty?

— Hmm. Is this some kind of contract renewal?

— Something like that. Should I be prepared to offer my life again, just like last time?

— No. I couldn’t put a knife to your neck. I’d rather cut my own throat.

— I wouldn’t allow that, though.

How could she give up a life she was already protecting?

Azaid’s chuckled at Serena’s horrified response and asked:

— May I ask why it has to be that time?

— Just… I feel like I could decide anything at that time.

— Alright. Then I’ll gladly wait.

Thus, a new contract was made. The only difference was that, unlike before, it was now a promise made in complete trust, without the need to risk their lives or distrust each other.

At that point, Lucy pouted her lips and said:

“It must not just be a small increase. You’re the Head of the Imperial Palace now.”

“Thanks to that, I’m glad that there’s more I can do.”

“There’s no one who can beat a person who enjoys their work.”

Lucy shook her head at Serena’s love for work. In fact, Serena had become more famous, partly due to this recent position change.

After Sebastian was arrested that day, Azaid exposed the evidence of his embezzlement and dismissed him.

It seemed as if it had been planned in advance. After Serena had expressed suspicion about Sebastian, she had immediately instructed Jack to investigate him.

They say no one is without a flaw, but Sebastian’s very existence was a flaw of the highest degree.

There was no need for further investigation; his dismissal was immediate…

The problem was what came next.