These eyes are proof that I have my fathers blood in my veins When I was a kid, I wanted to gouge out both of my eyes.

Your Highness.

Arnold looked at Rishe and said in a subdued voice.

With a sincerity that showed no hesitation, he told the truth, which was commonplace to him.

They arent beautiful and worthy of your admiration.

His words brought a stabbing pain in her chest.

He averted his gaze from Rishe and looked out through the fireflies of the evening darkness towards the imperial city.

The overlooking cityscape from the balcony during the daytime was now pitch black and silent.

The first day you came to this castle, you said youve been longing for this country.

Yes. Its still a wonderful place to visit in person.

I cant feel the same sentiments about what you appreciate. The light of these insects looks like warfare, and the view of the imperial city down here feels like an abomination.

Arnold exhaled briefly and then spoke up.

Im not sure if its because I have the same eyes as my fathers, or maybe its because we are the same in nature Either way, its still ugly.

His profile while speaking resembled his usual nonchalance.

However, Rishe saw a small glimpse of Arnolds underlying emotions.

Thus, she responded, Do you remember how you thanked me when I detoxified all the knights on our way to Garkhain?

Arnold returned his gaze to her when she asked.

Your Highness told me about the merits of the knights then. You know their virtues because youve been right there with them, right? Everything else you see is the same.

Rishe enunciated slowly.

Whether the lights in the distance resemble warfare or the light of a beautiful firefly, those values arent immutable inheritance from your parents, but something acquired from what youve seen and heard before.

Then you just have to know. You can enjoy the beauty of this country and its wonderful creatures in the future.

She spoke while staring straight into Arnolds blue eyes. She smiled brightly, trying to hide the ache in her heart.

She did her best to hold back the urge to touch him and stroke his head as she would a small child, and added, Youll surely see a lot of beautiful and important things.

Ha~

Arnold snorted with a self-mocking smile.

Theres no need for such a thing. All I have to have is what I can use for my own purposes, thats all. Eliminate the unnecessary, cut them down, and move on. Thats it.

Your Highness Arnold.

Ive killed people I cared about with my own hands Now that youre here, I can also kill you if youre a hindrance.

Rishe recalled. Theodore once told her that Arnold had killed his mother. Could he be referring to that time?

I dont know what youre up to with the matters with Koyor.

A dark light lurked in his blue eyes.

With a ruthless look on his face, Arnold warned, Dont let me get rid of you.

Rishe squeaked and pursed her lips.

It wasnt because his command was horrifying.

It sounded more like a plea.

What for?

If she was only going to be around for a purpose, and she let him be by his side for his needs, he shouldnt have asked such a wish on Rishe.

I cant make any promises on that

She made up her mind and answered.

Ill move for what I want to achieve, even if I have to be your wife. Even if you end up killing me, that way of life for me is just non-negotiable. Besides

Rishe proudly told Arnold, I just have to come back here again.

What?