Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
As soon as the Holy Saint left, Benevolence followed.
Only the ministers and empresses of the Skalan Empire were left in the hall.
“You can leave now to handle the state affairs.”
Queen Kati said casually.
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
The ministers bowed respectfully and left.
After what had happened today, they probably no longer held any place in the Empress’ heart. They had disappointed her.
The Empress took her leave as well, accompanied by Sous and the Chief Swordsman behind her.
They left together and went to the Empress’ palace.
The palace was very large, and there was a beautiful garden at the front. It was beautiful and pleasant, and it was a place where the Empress could relax by herself.
The Chief Swordsman stood behind her with a complicated expression. His age was obvious, but he was no longer as ambitious as a young man.
What would have happened if Sous hadn’t stepped forward?
Without a doubt, the Empress could only compromise. The Empress would also be burdened with rumors if the princess was married off. Even though everyone knew that the Empress was being forced, the Holy Saint had said that the Empress could offer herself for marriage.
With such a choice, people would have their own ideas. They might not say anything outwardly, but who knew what they were thinking on the inside?
Perhaps some others would also think that the Empress was selfish, self-interested, and had no sense of responsibility. How could she have actually used a princess to sacrifice for herself.
By then, the Empress would no longer have the people’s faith. Perhaps it wouldn’t affect her much, but there would still be some damage done.
There was a difference between having a choice and not having one. The Holy Saint was not a brainless person.
And now, Sous had completely disrupted their plans.
It would not be an exaggeration to call Sous a hero now. If the princess was really married off to the Skalan tribe, it would be a disgrace to the Skalan Empire.
The Saint had come with the intention of humiliating the Skalan Empire. To humiliate the Empress, the Empire, and all the ministers.
Maybe Sous didn’t look like he was doing anything, and he wasn’t in any danger. But he actually stood up, and no one went against him.
Doing anything or nothing at all, or even trying to save the situation after things were fixed would all have completely different outcomes.
“Sous,” the Empress called.
“I’m here.”
Sous was just about to bow when the Empress held him with both hands and said, “You have made a great contribution this time, so I will not allow you to kneel.”
In the past, to be allowed not to kneel was a very honorable thing. Imagine every minister kneeling down to the Empress, while only you were allowed to stand, with everyone watching. Such glory made people envious.
“Follow me.”
The Empress led them to the main entrance of the palace chamber. Sous and the Empress went in. The Chief Swordsman stood guard at the entrance. He was not allowed to enter without the Empress’s orders. He had no authority over Sous.
Upon entering, the place was indeed a place for the nobles. It was far more gorgeous than where Sous lived.
They arrived at the deepest part of the hall. On the wall in front of them hung a sword, and a treasured one at that. It had a gold and silver coating, and was very beautiful. With one glance, one could tell that it was a sword used by a woman, and also one that belonged to royalty.
The Empress took a step forward, retrieved the sword with both hands, and brought it to Sous. “Since you have made up your mind, then go. The Holy Land will never allow a second person to leave with you. This sword is the treasured sword that my father gave me to protect myself. This time… I have pondered for a long while about what to reward you with. Seeing that you are unarmed, this sword suits you.”
“Good stuff.” Sos was secretly shocked. Even though he was not a swordsman, he still liked this sword very much. Most importantly, it looked luxurious and valuable.
If he carried such a thing around and acted ostentatiously, people would definitely remember him.
With this, it was surely the best to attract revenge-seekers. Everyone would want to kill him for such a treasure.
Sous did not stand on ceremony either. Since the Empress had already said that the sword was his to take, he would be embarrassing the Empress if he refused instead. He replied, “Thank you, Empress. I will definitely carry this sword with me. It will not leave my side. Even when I sleep, I will carry it with me.”
“Pfft.”
The empress could not help but laugh at Sous’ words.
“I’m just giving this sword to you for self-defense. It’s just an extra item. You don’t have to do this.” As soon as she finished speaking, Empress Kati called the maid in.
Sous knew that this was a hint that it was time to take his leave.
Sous left the hall. The Chief Swordsman was waiting outside the door.
“Take care, Lord Sous, wherever you go. The Skalan Empire needs a man like you.”
The Chief Swordsman smiled and said. He did not step forward to protect the Empress, but Sous did. Sous was her personal guard. Which guard could do this?
Only Sous could.
Sous did not understand swordsmanship or magic. Only a mortal body would be able to stand with the Empress and share her burdens. Such a person was lacking in any country.
“Chief Swordsman, protecting the Empress is our duty,” said Sous with a smile.
“Duty!” The Swordsman was stunned. Yes, the Skalan Empire had been peaceful for too long. He had forgotten how long it had been since his sword was unsheathed.