Chapter 83

"It's been a month already..."

It had been about a month since the incident involving the curse. The black flames that had attacked the western part of the capital were extinguished thanks to Cordelia and her companions, and fortunately, there were no casualties.

The reputation of 'The Holy Maiden of the Lion,' Cordelia, had risen even further, but there were still some unresolved issues regarding the incident.

"Ultimately, we couldn't find any evidence that Allen or the empire was involved..."

Cordelia muttered to herself. On that night, Allen had appeared at the magic bureau, but no concrete evidence had been found to prove that he was the mastermind behind the series of events involving the black flames.

It was disappointing that they couldn't catch the culprit...

However, it was likely that Allen and his group couldn't easily carry out such a large-scale operation using cursed tools again. Otherwise, there would have been more incidents of magical crimes and disturbances by now. While it was possible that they were lying low and building their strength, Cordelia believed it was important to appreciate the temporary peace they had achieved.

"Cordelia, are you ready?"

Leonhardt, dressed in his white formal attire, peeked into the waiting room. Today was the day of Leonhardt's investiture as the crown prince and the formal engagement with Cordelia. Cordelia, wearing a royal blue dress that the maid had helped her put on, gracefully stood up. The dress had a long train that shimmered like the sea with every movement.

"Yes, Your Highness. I look forward to spending the day with you."

"Indeed. This day has finally arrived."

Taking Leonhardt's outstretched hand, Cordelia began to walk. Beyond the corridor they were walking through, a grand hall awaited, filled with many people.

Feeling a bit nervous, she felt a gentle squeeze on her hand. When she squeezed back, Leonhardt's green eyes narrowed affectionately. Such a small gesture made her feel loved, and she was happy to think about the days ahead with him, causing her to almost smile.

(No, no. This is a ceremony. I need to keep a composed face.)

Just as she was steeling herself,

"Meow."

A cat's voice came from behind.

Was it Nini, who had slipped out of the waiting room? When Cordelia turned around, she saw:

"Prince Leonhardt...?"

A kitten that looked exactly like Leonhardt in his lion cub form... or rather, a lion cub, staring up at her.

"Who is this...?"

As Cordelia tilted her head, the lion cub opened its mouth.

"Ah!"

A burst of golden flames shot out. Recognizing the familiar flames, she noticed that the lion cub's eyes were half-closed, giving it a sullen look.

"Could it be, King Lionel...?"

"Meow!"

The lion cub let out a cry, as if confirming her guess.

"Really? How can this be...?"

"It seems so."

Cordelia, standing beside Leonhardt, was looking at the lion cub.

"He says, 'I don't know when a curse worker might appear again, so I'll keep watch in this form.'"

"Can you understand what King Lionel is thinking?"

"Somewhat... I think it's because we share a soul."

Cordelia studied Lionel closely. Although he looked like a cute lion cub, she could see traces of Lionel in his every movement.

"...And Cordelia, there's one more thing I need to tell you."

"What is it?"

"It seems that King Lionel and I can't be separated by a certain distance."

"Really...?"

"An unexpected twist."

Leonhardt's muttered words didn't seem to bother Lionel, who stretched lazily and meowed.

"Living with King Lionel, huh..."

She didn't dislike him, but it meant that she and Leonhardt wouldn't have much time alone together for a while. Feeling a bit disappointed, she heard another cat's meow. This time, it was Nini's voice.

"Meow!"

Nini meowed and approached Lionel. Lionel seemed reluctant to meet this unfamiliar presence and eventually left.

"Oh, if he leaves Your Highness..."

"It seems to be fine for this distance."

Nini decided to chase after the retreating Lionel. Cordelia hoped that the two would get along well.

"Your Highness...?"

Before she knew it, she was being pulled close by Leonhardt.

"I should thank Nini."

Leonhardt smiled and his emerald eyes softened. His gaze was sweet and intense, drawing her in.

--- Cordelia savored the precious moment alone with Leonhardt, sealed with a kiss.

Thank you for reading.

I hope you enjoyed both this story and the second volume of the book, which is on sale today!