Chapter 36
“You’re different.”
That comment made Ja-hyun flinch. Had he said something wrong? But according to the contract, all character settings were supposed to be based on him, so it shouldn’t be difficult…
“One truly needs to see someone in person. The impression I got from hearsay seems quite different. You appear healthier than expected.”
Of course. The rumors they’d been whispering about surely contained many exaggerations. It had been needless worry.
“Thanks for your concern.”
“Don’t worry, I don’t plan to talk long here. I just want to explain the situation briefly and give you time to think. And once you hear what I have to say, you’ll surely seek me out again.”
The Prince wore an arrogant expression. His words were simple and kind – almost too kind, like trying to lure a child with candy.
‘This Prince seems to think I’m ignorant of the world because of my illness.’
“I hear you greatly respect and follow your brother, the Grand Duke of Izatrix.”
“Yes.”
“How fascinating. I didn’t think the Grand Duke was one to be bound by sentiment… yet he’s been caring for you for ten years. People are complex indeed. But as a relative, it pains me to see the Grand Duke’s fortune being drained to keep one patient alive.”
Yes, yes. You’re the great Prince and I’m just a money-draining invalid. Despite clearly having his own theories about the Grand Duke’s motives, he still prods around indirectly. Is he trying to provoke a reaction?
“Haven’t you ever wondered? Why would the Grand Duke, who lacks nothing, raise a bastard who has nothing?”
Fxxx, I don’t know. Must be love, right?
“…”
“Was that too harsh? You look upset. Don’t take it too seriously. I’m actually a bit envious. As you probably know, I’m not on the best terms with my other siblings.”
Whether the medicine was wearing off or not, his head was starting to hurt. How long was this bastard planning to keep a sick person standing while he rambled? He wished he’d get to the point. A three-line summary would be appreciated.
“I see.”
“Have you heard that imperial blood carries the power of dragons? Not as legend or metaphor, but literally. This power continues through generations… Usually, one awakens to it around their twenties.”
Being born with a weak constitution and frequent illness was proving more challenging than expected. Indeed, one truly learns through direct experience.
Upon returning, he’d speak with his brother about expanding their medical foundation and pushing for legal reforms to broaden healthcare welfare. Starting domestically before supporting international aid organizations. Though he could use his authority and ability to manipulate politics and rush international legislation, it would be better to proceed slowly to avoid unforeseen consequences.
“His Majesty inherited this blood and power strongly, maintaining the most powerful golden age in history. I too inherited this blood.”
Listening to this fantasy 19th-century imperialist’s prejudiced dialogue was becoming increasingly exhausting. It wouldn’t be surprising if he started talking about inbreeding to preserve bloodlines, like the old European royalty.
“Though not particularly strong, I possess the Golden Dragon Eye, a special trait. Consider it a power close to prophecy. Thanks to it, I’ve seen several futures, though not many. Like a future ten years from now, ravaged by war.”
Prophecy? Did he really have precognitive abilities?
This new information piqued his interest. He finally began to focus properly.
He wondered just how much this Prince knew. Since he’d admitted it wasn’t a particularly impressive prophecy, did he only see vague futures? Did he perhaps know about his own death?
“The dragon’s blood… you say?”
The concept of inherited power passing through family bloodlines wasn’t particularly novel, as it had been in the original story too.
But prophecy? If true, that was quite interesting. There hadn’t been anything about that in the original story. Had it never been revealed because he died early before? Was that why he’d sought him out so urgently? Because of that prophecy?
“Yes, and the same applies to the Grand Duke’s family who inherited imperial blood. For example, the current Grand Duke… including bastards.”
The Prince smiled at that point. A smile suggesting he had much more to say.
“Lord Raijin, this means you too have strong dragon blood sleeping within you. I read it with my own eyes.”
I already know that…. And that such rumors circulate among the nobles too. Though he probably thinks I’m unaware of this. However, Ja-hyun maintained his facade.
“I also have that…?”
Even to his own ears, his voice, full of pauses and slight trembles, sounded pathetically ignorant and pitiful. Though difficult, it was quite useful at this moment.
“I think perhaps this great power is actually consuming your body, causing your weakness.”
‘My weak constitution is because of this dragon whatever? I doubt it. Isn’t this just a setting error?’
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