As the rumors say, his jealousy is tremendous.

But Lucerne comprehended. An intelligent woman who was a maneater could make a man anxious.

Speaking of which, is there really any way to bring down Merha?

Minister, let me tell you Ive never missed a creature I wanted to kill on the battlefield. If I want, I will.

Well, Ive heard of your reputation.

Gunner nodded his head continuously with enthusiasm. Objectively, Lucerne was a kind of war god. There was no way he could make such an unsubstantiated jest.

And if you owe me, one way or another, you pay it back. If you run away, youll pay it back two or three times as much. It would benefit you to keep that in mind.

I understand, sir.

Then trust me and wait. If Merha does resign, I hope the High Priest will remember whos grace brought about such circumstances. Dont forget that you are not a fisherman*.

[*t1v: a Korean saying that one gains an advantage effortlessly while the other two sides are competing.]

Numerous thoughts crossed his mind, but Gunner replied that he knew his place well. Subsequently, a congratulatory order fell on him.

His back was damp as he returned home.

As the rumors say, you two are terrifying. But what the hell are you up to?

Gunner lost his appetite. If its true .

That person.

As Nora was entering after her training, she saw Gunner hurrying out. He looked familiar.

Ian, who was that man?

Ah, you mean Gunner? Hes going to be running for pope soon.

.

Noras complexion clouded over as she bit her lip.

If its the same Gunner . Isnt he a famous corrupt priest?

Since she was from a monastery, she could not have not known his name.

***

After dinner, Elisha took Lucerne by the arm and took a leisurely stroll through the garden with him.

Thank you.

What?

You supported me in front of Gunner today.

Im enjoying myself watching your designs.

Elisha glanced at him. She knew how extraordinary it was for Lucerne to support her so much even while not trusting her. She decided to remain genuinely grateful towards him, even if he was sarcastic to her.

You said thank you. I guess the way to please our little ghost is to be encouraging.

Didnt you sleep with me too much to call me little?

At her words, Lucernes steps slowed down.

No way. Theres still a long way to go. If I wholly acted according to my wishes, I would have tied you to the bed so you wouldnt even waste your physical stamina on walking, like now. And I would pound you all night long, wake you up, feed you and then hit it again.

.

Elisha tried to tease him, but it went horribly awry. When it came to the bedroom, she couldnt beat him.

Then, an unexpected figure appeared in front of the two of them. It was Nora. A faint smile of joy and welcome spread across Elishas face.

Nora, how was your training today?

At Elishas very affectionate question, Lucernes eyebrows twitched slightly. It was strange seeing the two of them together.

Yes, it went well.

Nora was a person who was like an open book and had no talent for hiding her feelings. Elisha caught her as she was hurriedly trying to escape.

Nora, are you injured again?

No, its not that.

Then whats the matter? Anything you say is fine, so just tell me.

Nora hesitated. She looked at Lucerne, who was gazing at her indifferently. He gave off the air that he wanted her to say what she was going to say quickly and disappear.

Actually, I spotted Gunner earlier today.

Ah.

Elishas eyes searched the ground for a moment. Quick-witted, she understood the situation in an instant.

The butler said that the Madam even had a private meeting with Gunner .

I did,

Elisha replied dispassionately. When Lucerne heard it through her mouth, he thought it was pretty adorable that she felt guilty.

It occurred to him that he shouldnt make Elisha talk to someone like Gunner alone in the future.

Do you know what kind of person Gunner is that youre trying to persuade him?

I know.

But

Nora,

Lucerne cut in.

It is not for you to meddle in such a thing.

But, he..

Lucerne.

Elisha dissuaded him.

Nora is from a monastery and she was raised in the dormitory for the commoners. The monastery I was in had plenty of food, so we were alright. But I heard that in some monasteries there were children who really starved to death.

.

Lucerne frowned at her words. He spoke coldly even after hearing her words.

Nora, just because my wife favors you doesnt mean your rudeness can be indulged.

Nora looked like she was holding back something. She prostrated on the spot.

Forgive me. But please remember my knights oath.

I know. If youre dissatisfied, you can put a knife to the back of my throat but dont be discourteous to Elisha.

I understand, general.

Nora bowed and stepped back.