Chapter 5
“I’m going to make you cry. Cry in utter misery.”
Meysarina’s expression froze. But Amelia, with a glint of cold amusement at the corners of her lips, continued without hesitation.
“What was meant for you—I’ll take it for myself.”
“What are you talking about…?”
“I’m saying I’m very much looking forward to tomorrow’s banquet. I’ll see you then.”
Amelia brushed past her with icy disdain, and Meysarina’s eyes burned as she glared after her.
“Is this because of the marriage announcement with His Grace, Duke Bastien? Does she think she stole him from me? Still doesn’t know she’s being used? That pathetic fool.”
Words she had swallowed down for so long now pressed mercilessly against her lips. There was no betrayal to regret, no guilt to feel. She had loved Edzov first. As for him—Amelia was nothing more than a pawn. That foolish girl had stumbled into the love that truly belonged to them. Not family? Of course. Meysarina had despised that deceitful Amelia from the very beginning.
“A scandal? Don’t make me laugh. I am his true lover! All I need to do is give him what he wants—and then he’ll have no use for you!”
She was going to die anyway. Once Amelia vanished, her place would be hers. She would become the perfect daughter of Count Chezaret. And beyond that—the head of House Fiore.
“You have nothing. Absolutely nothing.”
Amelia’s face, turned away, was colder than ice.
“Don’t ever look weak again. Never.”
Everything they had tried to crush her for—she would take it all. Every last thing. She turned to the maid who had been waiting silently by her side.
“I wish to see His Grace, the Duke.”
At last, Amelia stood before Duke Belvan—the current head of House Fiore. Her maternal grandfather, Duke Belvan Fiore, was once the Solar Empire’s most brilliant musketeer—a general who had defended the empire with unwavering valor. Now, due to declining health, he had withdrawn from military affairs.
“Amelia.”
Joy surged in Belvan’s voice, though it trembled.
“Thank you for granting me this meeting.”
“No, child. I should be grateful to see your face—even like this. I don’t know when it may be the last time.”
“Please… don’t say such things.”
“The more I look at you, the more I see Ailey in you.”
His eyes reddened as he saw in her the likeness of his beloved daughter, Ailey. Perhaps that was why he had agreed to meet her—because he longed, just once more, to glimpse his daughter through Amelia.
“Ailey must have worried about you endlessly. I should have protected you.”
“No. I must protect myself. And I will.”
Belvan gazed into Amelia’s eyes, so full of strength now—so different from before—and slowly nodded.
“My time is short. That’s why I must quickly name an heir to the duchy. Tomorrow’s banquet is crucial for that reason.”
“Speaking of the banquet… Your Grace, Grand Duke Clio is currently within the estate.”
Belvan’s eyes widened, shocked.
“H-How… how is he here…?”
“He is my guest. At tomorrow’s banquet, the Grand Duke and I intend to make an important announcement. So I ask—please lend me a little of your time.”
“What in the world are you talking about? What… what are you and he planning…?”
“You’ll understand tomorrow. Please grant permission for His Highness to remain formally within the estate.”
“If he’s already here, then of course I must allow it.”
“Thank you. And… there is one thing I wish to ask of you—for the first and last time.”
Amelia’s voice trembled ever so slightly, though her resolve did not waver.
“I wish to take part in the succession trials for House Fiore.”
Duke Belvan, already confused and overwhelmed, froze completely at her words.
“What…?”
“I want to inherit House Fiore.”
“What nonsense is this? You know as well as I do—the head of House Fiore must know how to wield a musket.”
House Fiore judged its members purely by merit. And it wasn’t enough to simply handle a musket—one had to wield it flawlessly, to the extent of earning recognition from the house’s elite musketeers. That was why even Belvan, despite his desire, had never been able to bring Amelia into the duchy. The members of the house would never accept someone as frail as Amelia—someone who couldn’t even handle a musket.
“I understand. I’m not asking you to simply give it to me. I’ll take the same test as everyone else. All I ask is for a chance. Please.”
Amelia made her heartfelt plea to Belvan, then quietly left the room. Alone, Belvan let out a heavy sigh.
“She wants to take the succession trial… What could she possibly be thinking?”
A musket wasn’t something that could be used by mere practice. It required innate magical ability. Musketeers forged bullets from mana and wielded muskets imbued with that energy. And the source of that mana—the heart.
A girl with a weak heart like hers… She could never use a musket. And what of her connection to Grand Duke Clio?
Was Grand Duke Clio truly going to appear at the banquet tomorrow? Even Duke Bastien would be present. Belvan felt certain—tomorrow’s gathering would bring chaos beyond measure.
Early in the morning, Amelia was busily preparing herself, adorned from head to toe. Behind her, Mami helped fasten her corset, her hands trembling with curiosity.
“My lady, what in the world is going on? I couldn’t ask you yesterday, I was too flustered!”
“I’ll explain in detail later. What matters now is that His Highness the Grand Duke will escort me at tonight’s banquet.”
“Heavens! Truly? Then—you’ve accepted his proposal?”
“Yes, I have.”
Amelia’s voice was calm, almost detached, as if she were speaking of someone else’s engagement. Mami sensed the odd stillness in her tone but chose not to comment, instead bouncing with barely-contained excitement.
“This banquet’s going to shake the social world to its core!”
“You think so?”
“Of course! His Highness the Grand Duke has never shown himself in social circles before!”
“Edzov’s going to be stunned. I can’t wait to see his face when I drop my bombshell. And Meysarina too.”
A thrill coursed through Amelia at the thought. Once her preparations were complete, she intended to visit the room where Eclite was staying. Mami, however, seemed uneasy about that.
“My lady, with all due respect, you’re not yet married. Should you really be attending to him personally? His Grace sent maids for that.”
“He’s my guest.”
“Well… yes, but still…”
As they exchanged words, Amelia reached the door of his room. She steadied her voice, which had gone slightly hoarse from nerves.
“It’s not like we’ll ever be a real couple anyway.”
Feigning composure, Amelia knocked lightly.
“Your Highness, it’s Amelia. May I come in for a moment?”
“Please, come in.”
“Good morning, Your Highn—AHH!!”
“Oh my!”
Amelia screamed, and Mami gasped in awe. He was standing there—shirtless. His body still glistened from a recent bath. Despite the scars marring his skin, the smooth and solid muscles honed through years of swordsmanship and combat drew the eye with undeniable sensuality. His every movement was captivating. Eclite turned toward her, puzzled by her reaction.
“Lady Amelia?”
Snapping back to her senses, Amelia yelped and slammed the door shut.
“S-s-sorry! I wasn’t trying to see anything! I mean—you said I could come in!”
Yes, this wasn’t her fault. It wasn’t because she was lewd or anything—he told her to enter, didn’t he?! Eclite’s voice, now clearly flustered, called through the door.
“Ah… Apologies. It’s a habit.”
He sighed. In the North, he found restrictive clothing bothersome and usually went shirtless at home.
“Too many formalities in the South.”
Mami, her eyes sparkling, whispered excitedly to Amelia.
“Wow! Did you see that? I’ve heard men from the North are walking masterpieces, but my goodness…”
“Mami, hush!”
Amelia could no longer bear the embarrassment. Her face flushed crimson.
“Your Highness, I’ll wait in the garden!”
Grabbing Mami by the arm, she dragged her away. It was the first time she had seen a man’s bare body, and the image burned in her mind, heating her thoughts. His physique was just as Mami had described—an exquisite work of art…
“No, stop. Don’t imagine it. Don’t savor it!”
He’s used to being half-naked? The idea of a marriage-in-name-only started to concern her.
“To make me Empress… That means you’ll be responsible for teaching me everything, from beginning to end.”
Could this be what he meant? Just where do we begin… and with what?”
No, it doesn’t matter. We’re only married in name anyway.
“We won’t even be sharing the same space. Exactly—there’s nothing to worry about!”
Arriving at the garden, Amelia finally managed to shake off his image from her mind. Mami, however, wore a solemn expression, still thinking of Eclite.
“His body’s too good, though.”
“Mami, please stop.”
“Well, it’s not like he can go to the banquet half-naked.”
“What are you even saying?!”
At that moment, Mami’s face took on a grave seriousness.
“This is important, my lady. His Highness the Grand Duke must show himself in society now—but honestly, his appearance… it’s too savage! He’ll already be the center of attention at the banquet!”
“Is that so?”
“There’s no time to relax. You can’t let that old hag Meysarina outshine you! You can’t let His Grace, Duke Bastien, look better in any way! Not even in appearance!”
“His Highness Grand Duke Clio is… well, not bad. I mean, he has a rugged charm.”
“My lady! This isn’t the time for blind loyalty!”
Truthfully, Amelia didn’t know much about high society. Count Chezaret had rarely permitted her to go out. Mami, now utterly serious, delivered her reality check.
“Do you know how terrifying society is? A banquet isn’t just a place for laughter and fun—it’s a battlefield without swords! If you show even the smallest weakness, you’ll be torn apart in the ladies’ salons with words sharper than blades!”
Amelia was startled. It seemed as if Mami was about to breathe fire.
“To place His Highness on the throne, you need societal power, too! If he shows up at the banquet looking like that, your reputation and honor will be damaged! Even if you don’t earn praise, you must avoid ridicule!”
“If His Highness just… tamed that hair a bit, he’d look fine. His eyes are quite beautiful. I’d like to see them up close again.”
“Don’t worry, my lady. Despite appearances, I’ve worked in House Fiore for years. I take pride in my skills. I’ll give it everything I have!”
“Th-thank you.”
Amelia felt that now was not the time to argue with Mami—her determination was overwhelming. Just then, Eclite approached. Though his hair still hung in messy strands, he was neatly dressed in the formal attire the maid had prepared. He looked much more distinguished now—though clearly uncomfortable in the unfamiliar clothing. As Mami tactfully withdrew, Amelia offered him a soft smile.
“You look wonderful.”
Eclite tilted his head, puzzled by her words.
“You prefer clothes like these?”
“Don’t people in the North wear such attire?”
“Up there, survival matters more—it’s a harsh and frigid land. Wearing these clothes would get you killed by the cold.”
“I… see. But earlier, you mentioned that… um, being shirtless was a habit…?”
“When I’m alone, I dislike cumbersome things. I apologize for earlier—I should’ve minded etiquette and manners. At the banquet, I will… do my best.”
At that moment, Eclite’s eyes darkened with visible gloom. It was obvious—he loathed the idea of the banquet. His expression, so unguarded, was oddly endearing.
“Don’t worry too much. We’re just making an announcement. That’s all.”
“I don’t wish to tarnish your honor, my lady.”
Amelia blinked in surprise.
Did… did he overhear what Mami said?
Suddenly feeling guilty, she quickly shook her head.
“You really don’t have to push yourself.”
“It’s not pushing myself. I want to.”
Eclite hesitated briefly, then murmured in a low voice.
“I just… want to look decent.”
“What? What did you say?”
Instead of answering, Eclite simply gazed at her. His eyes were intense, and Amelia’s heart began to beat strangely fast. Even so, Eclite didn’t look away, keeping his gaze locked with hers. Unable to bear the silence, Amelia finally blurted out—
“Is… is there something on my face?”
“You said you wanted to look at me.”
“Pardon?”
“…Nothing.”
Eclite turned away abruptly, clearing his throat. Strangely, his ears seemed slightly red.
At last, the grand banquet at House Fiore began. It was no mere social gathering for laughter and merriment—the empire’s most powerful nobles were all in attendance. At the center of the hall stood a golden table, upon which lay three muskets. These belonged to the candidates chosen to undergo the succession trial. The sacred muskets symbolized the vow to compete fairly and honorably for the position of house head.
The stars of the evening were undoubtedly the candidates. Among them, Lady Meysarina of Count Chezaret’s house stood out, known for her exceptional marksmanship. With her red hair cascading freely, a dress that accentuated every curve, and a dazzling smile, she was nothing short of captivating.
From afar, Meysarina exchanged furtive glances with Edzov. As the most prominent contender for the Solar Empire’s throne—called the Silver Lion—Edzov always drew the eyes and whispers of high society. The nobles swarmed around him, eager to curry favor, their voices sweet as honey.
“It’s such an honor to see you on this splendid occasion, Your Grace.”
“We look forward to hearing good news from you as well, Your Grace.”
Edzov responded to their flattery with a light, polished smile.
“In fact, I intended to share some good news today.”
At those words, the nobles’ eyes widened in eager anticipation.
“Oh! We are most curious to hear it.”
Edzov subtly scanned the room—but Amelia was still nowhere in sight.
‘Why is she so late? She even refused my escort… Don’t tell me she’s not coming—’
Then, satisfaction flickered in his eyes. Finally, Amelia appeared—and she was stunning. Her violet hair was elegantly styled, revealing the graceful curve of her pale neck. A green silk gown, matching her fresh green eyes, cascaded like waves with delicate bobbin lace trim. Her porcelain skin, soft peach lips, and slightly drooping eyes beneath dark, neat brows gave her a quiet, enchanting beauty. She rarely attended such events—but when she did, properly adorned…
‘Good. She doesn’t look sickly. At the very least, she looks worthy to be at my side.’
Without hesitation, Edzov walked toward her. Meysarina’s eyes twisted in fury, but Amelia simply lifted the corner of her lips in a cold smile.
“Amelia.”
He called her name with feigned affection and reached for her hand, as if it were his right.
“Let me announce to everyone—”
Smack! But before he could touch her, Amelia slapped his hand away.
“Please do not touch me without permission, Your Highness.”
For a moment, Edzov’s rage surged, but he clenched his jaw and gave a low, warning tone.
“Don’t be childish.”
“Childish?”
“I understand—you’re still upset. Fine. But we can talk about it later. Tonight’s banquet is important to us.”
Facing his intense gaze, Amelia gave a serene, icy smile.
“It is important. We have a marriage to announce.”
“Exactly, so—”
Edzov, thinking she was finally cooperating, reached out again—but just then, a murmur swept through the hall.
“Oh my, who is that?”
“I’ve never seen him before… but he’s gorgeous!”
Amelia turned her head in confusion, but Edzov’s expression stopped her. His face had gone pale, frozen. Never had he failed to mask his emotions like this.
‘What’s going on?’
At that moment, someone gently took her hand. Startled, she looked up—and her breath caught. Piercing, beautiful blue eyes stared into hers.
“Not that way—look at me.”
“Your Highness… Grand Duke Clio…”
It was him—but not as she had ever seen him.
His sharply defined face, smooth and translucent skin, and neatly styled jet-black hair gleamed under the lights. Beneath his dark brows, his long, cool eyes shimmered a noble, deep blue—dangerously alluring. Tonight, Eclite Riot Clio was breathtakingly beautiful—almost too much.
Momentarily lost in awe, Amelia tried to gather her composure and speak—but Edzov’s voice sliced through the air.
“…Eclite…”
“It’s been a while, brother.”
The watching crowd gasped in collective shock.
“C-could it be the Monster Grand Duke?!”
“How did he come here?!”
Edzov clenched his jaw until it seemed ready to shatter.
“What are you doing here…?”
In front of his crumbling composure, Eclite gave a calm, poised smile.
“I came to see my fiancée.”
“What?”
“Lady Amelia.”
He spoke her name with warmth. As Edzov glared at them, seething, Amelia lifted her voice, addressing everyone.
“I’ve received Duke Fiore’s permission, and I ask for a moment of your attention.”
Edzov stared at her with a twisted gaze, but Amelia met it with a cold smirk.
“I intend to marry His Highness Eclite Riot Clio, Grand Duke of Clio.”
A stunned silence fell over the hall. Her words struck like lightning.
“G-Grand Duke Clio… marriage?!”
“Wait—that young lady is Count Chezaret’s daughter!”
“What is the meaning of this?!”
Edzov’s eyes burned with rage as he glared at them, while Meysarina stood speechless, unable to process the shock.
‘Marry the Monster Grand Duke? She’s lost her mind! But… this isn’t bad for me at all…’
“And furthermore—”
Amelia walked to the golden table in the center of the hall. From beneath her gown, she drew a silver musket and placed it on the table with a resounding thud, her voice clear and strong.
“I intend to inherit the title of House Fiore’s head.”
“You—!!!”
Meysarina shrieked involuntarily. Amelia turned to her with a calm, mocking smile.
“Don’t cry just yet. Not now.”
The trigger hadn’t even been pulled.
