What Became of the Tyrant After the Pregnant Empress Left - Chapter 150

His face was so composed that she felt embarrassed for having doubted his sly intentions. His gaze was also directed beyond her—toward Mikael, who was chirping and squeaking in an attempt to communicate.

Ysaris felt strangely as if she had lost in some way, but she didn’t let it show. Instead, she gathered her thoughts briefly before responding.

“I don’t have any plans for that right now. If it happens, I’d accept it, but…”

“I see. Then, from now on, we should consider contraception.”

Contraception. Ysaris repeated the unfamiliar word a few times in her head before shaking her head.

“There’s also the option of not sleeping together at all.”

“That’s not up for consideration.”

“What if I refuse?”

“Would you?”

Ysaris was about to say yes, but the words wouldn’t leave her lips. In truth, she had no choice but to accept the possibility of pregnancy. No matter how she looked at it, Kazhan wasn’t just her husband—he was also the Emperor, and it was expected that he would produce many heirs.

His words about the Empress’ duty had been correct. If Ysaris, who currently had no official responsibilities, wished to be of help in any way, then bearing children was the most effective path.

It was just that she wasn’t ready for it yet.

“As I’ve already told you, Ysaa.”

Kazhan, who had been quietly observing Ysaris, was the first to break the silence. He gently took her hand, his voice soft and affectionate as he whispered,

“I will never force you into anything. You can refuse me whenever you want, and if you don’t wish to have more children, that’s completely fine. So take your time and think it over. No matter what decision you make, I will always be by your side.”

As always, Ysaris felt a mix of gratitude and guilt toward Kazhan, who left the decision entirely up to her. If he wished, he could have been selfish and insisted on his way, yet he remained steadfast in respecting her will. That thought stirred something inside her.

“However…”

A meaningful voice followed soon after. Kazhan tilted his head slightly forward, meeting her gaze with an expression of innocent curiosity.

“You don’t dislike being with me, do you?”

“…I don’t dislike it.”

At her hesitant response, Kazhan’s lips curved into a slow, languid smile.

“I enjoy being with you, too. Don’t you think we match quite well?”

Was this teasing, persuasion, or seduction?

Before Ysaris could react, Kazhan continued.

“We are husband and wife. There’s no need to hold back when it comes to enjoying each other’s company. So don’t overthink it too much. I want you to experience every pleasure you can.”

Kazhan slowly caressed her back, watching as her blue eyes wavered. Then, as he pulled her slightly toward him by the shoulder, her body instinctively leaned into him without resistance.

It seemed Mikael would have to be left with the maids again soon.

For the sake of much-needed time alone.

* * *

Kazhan did not rush things.

He diligently carried out his duties as Emperor while visiting Ysaris whenever time allowed, spending weeks simply sharing the same bed at night.

Mikael often accompanied them, but there were times when it was just the two of them. They would read books together, engage in discussions over tea, ride horses, or take walks in the greenhouse.

And on nights when Mikael fell asleep early, Kazhan would touch her in secret.

His hands were focused solely on her pleasure, never seeking anything in return—so much so that Ysaris couldn’t refuse him.

If he had simply been relieving his own desires, she could have understood, but each time, he would bring her to release and stop there, leaving her bewildered. When she finally confronted him about his intentions, his response was nothing but sweet.

“I just wanted to see how beautiful you look when you feel pleasure. Besides, with Mikael around, I can’t indulge myself, can I? Seeing you satisfied is enough for me.”

“…”

At first, Ysaris had let it go.

But soon, she realized she had fallen into a trap.

She wasn’t indifferent enough to continue watching Kazhan walk off to the bath alone after leaving her in a state of utter need. Nor could her body ignore its own growing frustration.

So, one night, just as he was about to leave her trembling once again, Ysaris reached out and grabbed his arm.

“…Let’s go together. To the bath.”

In the darkness of the room, Kazhan’s smile spread like a slow bloom—a sight that would stay with her for a long time.

It was the true beginning of their married life.

* * *

Every time Kazhan and Ysaris shared their bodies, there was someone who received a report about it. For most, the Emperor and Empress having a harmonious marriage was a blessing.

But for some, it was an irritation.

“…Of all people, a Chernian.”

Tsk.

Zebiken tossed the note into the fireplace. His face, illuminated by the crackling flames, hardened slightly.