Chapter 189

A little while later.

News flew into Roze Castle that the occupying forces had suppressed the rebellion.

The destination was Linenhait Castle.

The number of troops deployed to suppress the rebels was only about 1.3 times the number of rebel forces stationed there to defend the castle—a truly astonishing figure considering this was a siege battle, which is notoriously much harder than defending. Normally, it’s common knowledge that at least double the manpower is required for such an operation.

The commander-in-chief of the attacking force was Iren Julieat.

She lived up to her name as a “specialist in siege battles” with remarkable prowess.

Just as she had boldly promised, the rebellion was crushed with surprising ease. After all, taking over a single territory and castle of modest size located in the Northern Continent wasn’t nearly enough to overthrow Serpina’s forces.

Of course, things might have been different if the continent had been empty… But the occupying forces didn’t advance, and their reckless challenge faded without even making a splash.

Thus, my prediction once again proved correct. Without capable commanders or sufficient troops, they would’ve surely suffered far greater losses.

It was reported that Selene, the former Lady of Linenhait Castle and leader of the rebellion, was found hanging by her neck. A will cursing Serpina even in death was burned along with her corpse upon Serpina’s orders. What kind of grudge could have driven her to push forward with such a hopeless rebellion?

What made her so enraged that she risked her life, charging toward Serpina like a moth to a flame? The answer lies with someone who no longer walks this earth.

And then…

Having proven herself, Iren returned victorious from the battlefield. It was said that during the battle, she personally saved one of the front-line assistants who had fallen into danger.

Though I warned her not to overexert herself, her actions weren’t reckless—they were heroic. From that point on, I noticed a significant improvement in how other commanders viewed her.

Where once she was treated as an outsider, now many considered her part of the family.

“I have done as you commanded, my lady. The rebellion at Linenhait Castle has been quelled.”

Serpina rose from her seat as the castle’s Lady and approached Iren, who knelt before her.

Then, kneeling on one knee to meet her eye level, Serpina said,

“You’ve worked hard, Iren. Your efforts will never be forgotten.”

“M-my lord…”

Iren’s violet eyes sparkled momentarily. A knight trained to protect others, yearning desperately for acknowledgment—her feelings must have been overwhelming given her history of being overlooked despite her accomplishments.

“No, Iren. While serving me as your liege may seem like a given, in these times, risking your life for your lord is a feat worthy of great value. I will never forget what you’ve done.”

Every time I witness Iren becoming more indispensable to Serpina’s forces, I feel a strange mix of emotions.

On one hand, it’s heartwarming to see her finally receiving the recognition she deserves after enduring endless hardship. On the other hand, Luna’s face lingers in my mind whenever I think about her future. Someday, Iren might leave this place willingly, but I worry if I’m putting too much pressure on her. She’s become far too precious to me.

Still, for now…

I should simply enjoy seeing the satisfied expression on Iren’s face.

A few days later, a mass execution of captured rebel commanders took place in Roze Castle. Once again, Serpina had to take lives of those who served her. How many times has she repeated this act, and how many more times will she have to?

Afterward, the schedule to return to Einhardt Castle was set. Initially, only myself, Lady Serpina, and the armed support group were supposed to go back—but perhaps out of personal consideration, Iren was also allowed to accompany us. The management of the occupied region would be handed over to General Irian, whom we can trust.

And now, here I am…

“Does this mean we expect no further rebellions?”

Inside the carriage heading toward Einhardt Castle—an extravagant VIP space guarded heavily due to the presence of our monarch—I sat beside Serpina, conversing with her. We weren’t facing each other; instead, we were sitting side by side in the confined space.

Perhaps because of the close proximity or maybe because it was her personal carriage, the air inside was filled with an intense yuzu fragrance, almost intoxicating.

“Well… I cannot say for certain whether there will be no more rebellions, but this decision does not harm us. You might consider it appropriate.”

Since learning about my ‘Mind’s Eye,’ Serpina has relied heavily on my advice throughout most decisions. At first, she asked if a rebellion would occur, but predicting such events accurately isn’t within my power. My previous predictions were mere educated guesses based on results, not actual foresight.

However, I could confidently answer this time because…

This decision—to return to Einhardt Castle—is indeed beneficial to our army. Though the result wasn’t overwhelmingly positive, it was clear enough: if it were harmful, the answer would have been negative. Thus, this choice is justified.

“So, that’s how it is…”

Serpina nodded thoughtfully, smiling afterward.

“Swen, you must have endured quite a bit yourself.”

“Me?”

“Yes. For several days, I tested your ‘Mind’s Eye,’ yet you provided answers to only a few questions. Sorting through all these inquiries must have been taxing.”

Her words rang true. Over the past few days, I faced numerous questions, but very few yielded actionable insights. Most were met with an “unknown” response, leaving little need for deception.

“The Mind’s Eye is undoubtedly a remarkable ability, but it comes with many limitations. Despite that, your counsel has been invaluable.”

“It’s merely jotting down notes, as I’ve mentioned before.”

“Hmm… Didn’t I just tell you not to be overly modest?”

She chuckled softly, covering her mouth.

Beautiful. Truly beautiful. Iren is lovely, Reika is charming, and even Luna possesses unmatched beauty—but none compare to Serpina’s allure. Her elegance left me breathless, forcing me to look away lest I fall under her spell.

“Well, there will be plenty of opportunities to test you in the future. We have all the time in the world…”

Something stirred within me.

I’ve heard similar words from Serpina before. Last time, it barely registered, but now…

Each time she spoke of continuing together, a heavy stone seemed to drop in my chest, causing discomfort and pain.

‘I shouldn’t let myself be swayed…’

I mustn’t forget my promise. Luna trusted me completely, abandoning her nation solely on my word. How could I ever forget such faith?

Unaware—or perhaps deliberately ignoring—my inner turmoil, Serpina brought up “that topic.”

“We’ll have a lot to do once we return to Einhardt Castle.”

“Isn’t that typical of a ruler?”

“In general, yes. But this time, it will be challenging. We’ll need to deal with—and persuade—those who follow me.”

“What requires persuasion?”

At the mention of “persuasion,” unease crept into me, prompting clarification. Yet, Serpina shook her head lightly and continued.

“It will involve convincing them rather than outright commanding. Some will undoubtedly resist.”

While Serpina might appear an ideal leader to some, this world operates under a feudal monarchy where rulers are obeyed without question. Rebellion usually ends in swift executions. As the heir to the old Einhardt Empire, her every word carries immense weight compared to other vassals. So why would she need to persuade anyone?

After pondering briefly, Serpina turned to face me directly. Once again, her lips captivated my gaze, reminding me of the kiss we shared.

Was this punishment for indulging in such inappropriate thoughts? Certainly, her next proposal was radical enough to provoke dissent.

“Swen, I’ve been considering offering you the position of Nation’s Strategist.”

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