Volume 3

I woke up early in the morning to explore the palace, so here I am now, walking through the hallway. I never realized how truly magnificent this place was. Every item here, if sold, would fetch an exorbitant price. I found myself staring at a painting of a couple standing side by side. They were probably his parents, who had passed away during the war. I casually popped a grape into my mouth from the small basket I carried. Sarah was with me, and she also had some food I could snack on, "Edward, where is His Majesty?" I asked, glancing behind me at Edward.

He cleared his throat before responding, "His Majesty just left early this morning, Your Majesty."

I clenched my fists, feeling my temper flare. That Emperor. He's really testing my patience.

"Then who is managing the state in his absence?" I asked, turning to face him.

"His right hand, Henry, Your Majesty," he replied.

I frowned at the mention of Henry's name. Right, Henry. How could I forget about him? He's the type of person who can truly be trusted—loyal, competent, and unwavering in his dedication to the Emperor.

"Sarah, prepare my bath," I ordered before turning on my heels and heading back down the hallway toward my chamber.

AFTER MY BATH, I requested that Sarah bring my meal to my chamber, as I had begun gathering information on what had been happening in their world. Despite being the mastermind behind the events unfolding here, there were still things beyond my control. How was I supposed to know what transpired in the lives of every person living in this world? I had only focused on the important people, unaware that the story I wrote could actually come true—or, was this real all along? It's infuriating because I don't know what's real anymore. I must study not only to fit in but also to gain an advantage in their way of life.

I needed to learn everything I could. For three days, I stayed confined to my chamber, reading and absorbing information. As a former author, I was always fond of reading, able to finish a book in just an hour. That's how fast I read, and I could memorize everything I read in a single sitting.

"Your Majesty, the weather outside is beautiful today. Wouldn't you like to shift your attention to something else for a change?" Sarah's voice snapped me out of my thoughts as she softly closed the book I had been engrossed in. She kept her gaze lowered, so I couldn't discern her emotions.

"Alright, accompany me," I said, standing up and walking out of the room with Sarah by my side.

As we made our way through the hallway, I noticed that the palace was bustling with activity. "What's going on, Sarah?" I asked her.

"A guest is arriving today, Your Majesty. The Duke and the Lord," she replied.

I immediately turned to her. "What's their business here?" Instead of answering, she simply bowed her head. Irritation surged through me, and I marched toward the Emperor's office.

WITHOUT KNOCKING, I pushed the door open and found a man wearing glasses, speaking with a knight. They both noticed me immediately and quickly bowed.

"Greetings, Your Majesty. How may I assist you?" the man asked with formal politeness.

I gritted my teeth in frustration. "What is the purpose of mentioning my title when you can't even show me proper respect?" I snapped, my voice rising in anger. Everyone here was starting to get on my nerves.

To my increasing annoyance, the man remained calm and unfazed, "I apologize, but I don't understand, Your Majesty."

I clenched my fists tightly. "The palace is bustling because the Duke and his son are visiting, and no one had the courtesy to inform me. Do you consider that respect?" do they even have brains? Clearly, they inherited the Emperor's lack of respect.

"I apologize again for failing to inform you, Your Majesty," the man said calmly, bowing once more.

I couldn't take it any longer. I turned on my heel to leave. "You must be Henry?" I said as I walked away.

"Yes, Your Majesty," he replied, confirming my assumption as I exited and made my way back to my room. I realized I probably needed to learn how to fight so I could kick them out the next time they dared to disrespect me.

"Sarah, I need something to wear. I must greet the visitors first," I instructed. No, they must greet me first. I stood before the mirror and began undressing. I left myself in a thin underdress, glancing at Sarah as she struggled to choose something suitable. My attention was suddenly drawn to a gown in the corner.

I pointed at it. "Pick that one, Sarah, and bring it here," I ordered.

She immediately obeyed, handing the dress to me, and I slipped into it myself.

The dress was somewhat revealing, but it was elegant nonetheless. A strapless gown with a mermaid silhouette, it was a rich shade of red, adorned with gold glitter around the waist, "Sarah, find me a tailor and throw away those other dresses," I said, gesturing toward the ones inside my wardrobe.

"As you wish, Your Majesty."

I picked up a ruby necklace and fastened it around my neck. It complemented the gown perfectly. I also wore thin, black gloves and red stilettos. Sarah styled my hair meticulously, and once she was done, I left the room.

I proceeded to the throne room and sat down on my throne. Now, it's time to show them what the Empress is truly capable of.

"Edward," I called out, sensing his approach beside me.

"Your Majesty," he replied.

I glanced at him briefly and couldn't help but study his appearance. "You look good today," I commented.

He seemed frozen in place for a moment, and I noticed the tips of his ears turning red, "You too, Your Majesty," he stammered. I smiled at him, which made him cough awkwardly.

"After this, show me the training grounds," I said, just as the doors to the throne room opened.

"Yes, Your Majesty." He nodded as I directed my gaze forward.

I fixed my eyes on the two guests entering the room. They approached with seriousness etched on their faces. "Greetings to the moon of the Empire, Your Imperial Majesty, the Empress," they said in unison, bowing deeply before me. I signaled them to stand upright, ready for whatever they had come for. Now, the real game begins.

"My husband neglected to inform me of the purpose of your visit, so it would be better if you explain it yourself, Duke," I began, keeping my tone steady. I raised an eyebrow as Henry entered the room. His expression was serious as he walked with purpose, stopping beside the Duke. "Your Majesty, it would be best if you took some rest," he advised, his voice firm. I gritted my teeth in frustration. This man had been testing my patience for a while now. If he keeps this up, I might just slap him before he knows what hit him.

"And what do you think of me, Henry? I'm not ill," I retorted sharply, turning my attention back to the Duke. "Speak," I commanded, but Henry dared to interrupt again, "Your Majesty, this matter falls under the Emperor's duties. As his right hand, it is also my responsibility." I shot him a fierce glare. "Henry, do not interrupt me when I am speaking. Have you forgotten your manners? Do you not know whom you are addressing?" my voice was calm, but the seriousness was unmistakable. He immediately bowed his head. "I apologize, Your Majesty," he murmured.

I clenched my fists tightly. His apology was hardly enough, I still wanted to slap him, but I couldn't let my emotions get the better of me, "If state affairs are the Emperor's responsibility, then the palace is mine. Therefore, it is not wrong for me to know the purpose of our guests." I declared before taking a deep breath, trying to maintain my composure.

I caught a glimpse of the Duke smirking just before I began to speak, my eyes narrowing as I addressed him, "Now, speak, Duke."

He cleared his throat, offering a polite smile before answering. "Your Majesty, this concerns His Majesty's command. He wishes to increase the number of knights in the palace." He paused briefly, gauging my reaction.

So that's what this is about. It's not surprising that I wouldn't have much to contribute to this conversation, but what piqued my curiosity was why the Emperor would suddenly request additional knights. "For what purpose?" I asked, trying to make sense of the situation. There's no war, as far as I know.

"For your safety, Your Majesty," he replied calmly.

I paused for a moment, taken aback. For my safety? Really?Safety, my ass. The man who treats me as if I'm insignificant suddenly cares about my well-being? His concern is laughable, considering how little regard he shows for me otherwise.

I masked my skepticism with a nod. "Alright, you may proceed with your business, Duke. Henry, assist them," my tone was firm, leaving no room for further discussion.

Without waiting for a response, I stood and turned, making my way toward the exit. As I left the room, I couldn't help but feel the tension simmer beneath my composed exterior. If the Emperor truly cared about my safety, why does it feel like I'm left out in the dark?

I sighed. "Edward, lead the way," I commanded, and Edward swiftly obeyed. We walked through the long hallway leading to the back, where a vast training ground unfolded before my eyes. Several men were still engaged in intense training there.

"Are you good at combat, Edward?" I asked, my curiosity piqued, "Yes, Your Majesty," he replied with unwavering confidence, "And what about sparring?" I glanced at him, testing his certainty, "Yes, Your Majesty," he answered again, just as assured as before. I nodded thoughtfully several times, considering my next move, "Then you could teach me," I decided, turning to face him fully.

The shock on his face was unmistakable, and Sarah, who had been silently standing by, quickly interjected, "Your Majesty, what you're thinking is dangerous!" her voice trembled with concern, starkly contrasting with the calm determination I felt deep inside. I ignored her and remained focused, waiting for Edward to respond as I had expected.

"That kind of thing isn't suited for a woman, Your Majesty. It will only be difficult for you," he said. His words cut through me, striking a nerve. I looked away, feeling a wave of offense at his remark.

I turned back to him, my voice sharp with authority. "That's an order, Edward. You cannot disobey me."

Just as the tension hung in the air, a voice from behind interrupted the moment, "How about sparring today, Your Majesty?" I spun around, raising an eyebrow as I faced the speaker.

"The Duke's son," I murmured under my breath, recognizing him instantly.

He took a step closer and, with a confident smirk, introduced himself, "Sebastian, Your Majesty. My name is Sebastian." He reached out and took my hand, brushing his lips against it with an arrogance that made my blood boil.

I clenched my teeth, yanking my hand away from his grasp as I stared him down, my voice laced with irritation. "Sebastian, what is your business here?"

I turned my attention away from him, walking toward the wall where several swords were displayed. I picked one up, immediately feeling its weight in my hand. It was heavier than I had anticipated, and I winced slightly at the effort it took to hold it properly.

"This one is good for you as a beginner," a low voice whispered near my ear, making me jump. His breath grazed the side of my face, far too close for comfort. Before I could put any distance between us, Edward had already reacted. In one swift motion, he drew his sword and aimed it at Sebastian from behind.

"You are speaking to Her Majesty, Lord Sebastian. Restrain yourself," Edward warned coldly, his voice filled with menace. The air between them crackled with tension.

Sebastian, however, remained unfazed. He chuckled lightly, his arrogance still present. "Of course," he said, stepping back with a smirk that only deepened my irritation.

I tightened my grip on the sword, my eyes never leaving Sebastian's. It was clear—if he thought he could manipulate or intimidate me like this, he was gravely mistaken.

"Let's begin the sparring." I made my way to the training ground, feeling the weight of anticipation. As I stepped onto the flat terrain, every knight who had been training paused and turned their gaze toward me. I attempted to swing my sword, but it felt awkward and heavy in my hand. "That's alright, Your Majesty. It's completely normal," Sebastian began, his tone steady and reassuring, "For now, let me teach you the basic moves," I was grateful, seeing the seriousness in his expression, as he genuinely seemed committed to guiding me through this training.

He pointed his sword forward with determination, then swiftly swung it to the left, creating a sharp arc through the air. Without pausing, he followed with a powerful downward swing to the lower right side, in perfect sync with a quick step back with his right foot, his movements fluid and precise.

He showed me something else, and I immediately memorized it in my mind, "Now, after me , Your Majesty," as he said, we began. I quickly grasped everything he taught, a skill that has always comes naturally to me, "You are fast learner, Your Majesty," he praised, he voice carrying a note of genuine admiration, "Is that so?" I responded, a subtle smirk playing on my lips. Withour warning, I swiftly pointed my sword to his neck, the blade barely an inch from his throat. "Then, does that mean I can now slash your neck off, Lord Sebastian?" I continued, my tone cool and calculated as I met his gaze, testing both his composure and his skill.

He smirked. "Do you have idea how attractive you are right now, Your Majesty?" I raised my eyebrow to him. "And?" I asked, "And it could be a reason to like you more." My eyes widened and I immediately pushed him away. "You are such an arrogant, red-headed Lord Sebastian," I spat out, my voice dripping with irritation. Alright, let's be honest here. He is undeniably handsome, with that striking red hair and those piercing eyes that seem to hold a world of secrets. But that doesn't mean I am swayed by his foolish words or let his charm get the better of me. No, I won't be easily influenced by his arrogance, no matter how captivating his appearance might be.

"You, stop with the nonsense you're spouting," I warned, my tone sharp and unwavering, "In case you've forgotten, I have a husband, and that is the Emperor," I reminded him firmly, making sure my words left no room for doubt. Without waiting for a response, I turned my back on him, dismissing him and his foolishness as I walked away.