Night found Karl scribbling *The Infinite Apostles and the Twelve Battle Maidens* in his study. He didn’t want to write it—but it was a strict order from his mother-in-law: finish the book and get it published.
With no choice, Karl snatched every spare moment he had to work on it.
Keeping him company was Calis, her expression faintly gloomy.
Karl watched her—clearly troubled—and asked gently,
“Sister, is something on your mind?”
Calis, lying on the sofa, slowly lifted her head.
“No. I’m just a little tired.”
“Then go rest. I’ll probably be up until dawn.”
Calis started to rise—but hesitated. If she left now, Madam Lucina would surely scold her. After weighing it, she stayed.
In this household, even the Guild President obeyed the lady of the house. Calis dared not overstep.
Karl paid her no mind and kept scribbling furiously.
After who knew how long, Calis let out a big yawn.
“Oh right… ah… Lord Earl asked me to remind you—the Thirteenth Prince and Fourteenth Princess arrive in a week. Have you figured out how to connect with them?”
Karl paused slightly, then looked up.
“Since Father-in-law asked, he must’ve already researched their preferences. Did he want me to ask him directly, or pass it to you?”
Karl trusted his father-in-law’s network—he’d surely gathered intel.
Calis smiled.
“Sharp. Lord Earl said both are magic beast tamers who adore raising them. How to bond? That’s up to you.”
Karl nodded. *Got it.*
This was a test from Father-in-law!!
No problem!!
Just build rapport? Big deal??
Plan locked: tomorrow, hit the magic beast market. Buy one. Raise it with Freya.
Freya chats with the young royals about grooming fur, training tricks—warm, natural vibes guaranteed.
Which beast? Decide tomorrow.
As he pondered, he finished Chapter 3 of *The Infinite Apostles*.
Past midnight.
Calis had dozed off on the sofa. Karl yawned, grabbed a blanket, tucked it gently over her, and turned to leave—
not without stealing one last glance at her stunning sleeping face.
*Heh. Father-in-law’s definitely angling for a concubine. Why send Calis instead of telling me himself? Obviously wants more chats with her.*
*Father-in-law… if Mother-in-law finds out, you won’t know how you died.*
Karl chuckled softly, switched off the lamp, and closed the door quietly.
---
Next morning, routine unfolded:
Father-in-law nervously avoiding the newspaper; Mother-in-law sipping coffee with grace; Mia, still groggy; Freya glowing with a light sheen of sweat.
Karl sat, tasted the creamy milk soup, and turned to Freya.
“Freya, the Thirteenth Prince and Fourteenth Princess arrive next week. We should prepare.”
Father-in-law shot Karl a pleased glance.
“Karl, already figured out how to cozy up to them?”
Karl gave an awkward smile.
“Not ‘cozy up’—cater to their interests.”
A hint of displeasure flickered on Freya’s face, but she replied,
“What’s your plan?”
“We’ll go to the magic beast market today. Buy one. Later, chat with them about raising magic beasts—grooming, training. Bonds will form naturally.”
Freya nodded. “I’ll follow your lead.”
Father-in-law added with a grin,
“Budget: three thousand gold coins. Get something flashy. Don’t shame the Earl’s name.”
He instantly stiffened, glancing at Mother-in-law sipping coffee. “Honey… approved?”
Mother-in-law took a delicate sip. “For the family’s honor? Of course.”
Karl’s heart lifted. *She’s paying? Wait—of course. Father-in-law’s purse lives with her.*
Mia perked up. “Brother-in-law~! Take me too!!! I wanna see the magic beasts!”
“Nope. Your sister and I have a date.”
Mia’s lips pouted. “You’re together *every day*! What date? Take me or I’ll… I’ll…"
*I’ll spill our secret!!*
—but the words died in her throat.
Karl smirked. “You’ll *what*? Say it! What’ll you do?”
Mia clenched tiny fists, glaring. “Ugh!! Stinky brother-in-law! Mean! Terrible! Always bullying me…"
She held back the secret.
Freya softened. “Karl, stop teasing her. It’s fine to bring Mia.”
“Alright… since you say so.”
After breakfast, the trio headed to the western outskirts with the approved three thousand gold coins.
Magic beast markets sat near forest entrances—convenient for hunters, easier to manage unsold beasts. After all, magic beasts were animals. Keep them city-wide? The stench alone would clear the block.
The moment Karl stepped in, a pungent odor hit him.
Mia and Freya pulled out handkerchiefs, covering their noses.
Karl walked ahead. “Honey, what kind of magic beast do you want?”
“CUTE ONES!!!” Mia blurted.
“I was asking *my wife*.”
Karl groaned inwardly. *I said “honey” to Freya—not you! What if she notices?! Wait… we’re innocent. Mia’s messing with my head.*
Mia pouted, whispering too low for others:
“I’ll be your wife someday anyway…”
Freya, thoughtful, replied,
“Large. Battle-ready. Rideable. And… imperial presence.”
Karl went silent.
*You might as well add “one that can help you start a rebellion”!!*
