Emperor’s Alternate - Chapter 74

I would rather become an innocent, naive woman, blindly placing my trust in Lecan, in hopes of quelling any rebellious thoughts he might harbor — especially if those thoughts were being fanned by those around him.

“If Your Grace continues to show unwavering loyalty to the Empire, as you always have… then the Imperial family will likewise offer its full cooperation, until the day you are granted the title of Archduke.”

“……”

Lecan fell silent, his face clouded with thought.

“You haven’t changed,” he said at last.

“……”

“Not even a bit different from the attitude you showed at the academy interview.”

“……”

“You told me back then that if the lord you served ever became a tyrant, you would first blame yourself for not recognizing his nature sooner. That even if you were cast aside after being used, you’d still hold yourself responsible for failing to guide your liege onto the right path.”

“…Yes. I did say that.”

“So now, you’re placing that same kind of trust in me, even if the words are different but the essence is the same. Is that just how you treat people in general? Or…”

Lecan seemed to hesitate, as though unsure how to finish his sentence.

“Have I become someone a little special to you?”

His voice was strangely cautious, as if asking whether he had become as special to me as my own lord.

Surely, he wanted me as a subordinate — there was no doubt about that. But when Lecan looked at me with eyes like that, it made it hard not to misinterpret.

‘…It’s strange.’

This feeling.

While I hesitated to answer, Lecan let go of my wrist and spoke.

“Tenekvan… Was that a name you gave me?”

“…Yes. I combined two words from the ancient tongue.”

“May I ask what it means?”

“…It’s a combination of Tenek, meaning ‘ordinary,’ and Van, meaning ‘acceptance.’”

“‘Accept the ordinary’? …In other words, don’t even dream.”

Lecan laughed, as if the idea was absurd.

I shook my head slowly and answered.

“To choose ordinariness is something only those with active courage can do. To acknowledge that I am not special. To give up existing as an individual set apart, and instead blend into the collective, to live in harmony with others. To turn off the spotlight that shines too brightly on oneself, and begin to care about others instead. That is the strength that allows one to accept themselves whether as a marquis or as a duke… regardless of title or circumstance.”

I didn’t look away from Lecan’s gaze.

“Is a life only special if it leaves behind a name?” I continued. “Is it only a success if it ends in wealth and fame? Think of the nameless masses who faded quietly. A human being is great simply by being.”

“…You speak well. In fact, if I think about it, your ideas verge on abolishing the class system entirely. You’re far more revolutionary and dangerous than I am. But your cause is noble, so no one would dare blame you. Truly eloquent.”

“…You flatter me.”

“Enough humility. In front of me, you can show whatever talent you have. I can tell just from your demeanor how many attacks you must have endured each time you revealed your gifts.”

The sincerity in his recognition of my abilities made my breath catch for a moment. I hesitated for a long time, and just as Lecan turned away as if to leave, I reached out and grabbed the hem of his sleeve — half a gamble, half courage.

“…Hmm?”

“…I would like to meet with you next weekend, at night, in private.”

“What?”

“…I’m asking you out. On a date.”

“…?!”

Even as the words left my mouth, I wasn’t entirely sure I was doing the right thing. I could barely believe I’d said it, so I couldn’t blame Lecan for looking utterly flustered. But I wanted to make him fall for me. I couldn’t say for certain if this was truly the right path, but if it meant I could prevent the empire’s downfall… then I was willing to resort to seduction, if that’s what it took.

“My birthday’s coming up soon.”

“…Is it that day?”

It was the fake midsummer birthday I’d received as “Leyesha,” but every servant in the Imperial Household is granted a day off on their birthday. Of course, neither the Empress nor Teiles II, who knew I was truly “Winter,” born in the dead of winter, would celebrate a false birthday.

Maybe something about my words struck him as meaningful. Still holding onto the edge of his sleeve, I gave a faint, uncertain nod. Lecan’s expression shifted, unreadable.

“…A gentleman can’t exactly turn down a lady’s invitation. I’ll choose the place and let you know.”

He sounded uncharacteristically flustered, and for once, he unilaterally made the decision. But that was fine by me. I let go of his sleeve, and for a moment, he hesitated, as if he had more to say. But only for a heartbeat.

Then, with quiet resolve, he turned and walked away.

The garden was full of flowers, yet the scent that lingered at the tip of my nose was his alone.