"Let me go in alone. The Republic’s palace forbids armed visitors," Aide said after we reached the Tianduo Republic’s palace, then stepped inside by himself.

"We’ve been expecting you, Prince Aide. Let’s discuss our joint resistance against the Demonkin."

"No problem. That’s precisely why I’m here. Let’s finalize the alliance treaty now."

King Liebai VI of Tianduo Republic warmly emerged from the palace upon seeing Aide and personally guided him toward the inner conference room.

"This king doesn’t act like a king—guiding guests himself?" I murmured, slightly amazed. It was my first time seeing a monarch who wasn’t autocratic.

And it wasn’t just him. The guards and officials outside treated citizens with genuine warmth and friendliness. Truly a strange nation.

"This country is relatively new—only two centuries old. Founded by survivors of wartime chaos. Here, the monarch holds no real power; every decision, big or small, is made by public vote," Aifei explained.

"Interesting." I gave a slight nod. The system was genuinely intriguing.

"The talks succeeded. We can head back."

After a while, Aide descended the palace steps. His satisfied expression confirmed the treaty went well.

"My duty ends here—I was only to escort Prince Aide *to* Tianduo Republic, not back. Aifei will handle the return journey. I’m leaving now." Crimson wings flared to life, lifting me into the air.

"Understood. I’ll have payment sent to the Adventurers’ Guild. Thank you."

"Mm~ Aifei, visit me at the Guild when you return. You’re not ready to graduate yet."

"Got it."

"Goodbye."

I shot straight into the sky. I left early because of a foreboding chill—a feeling tied to my new retainer, Elle. Something was wrong.

Back at the inn:

"Is room 301 still occupied?"

"Oh, sir! The young lady checked out recently. She left you this letter." The waitress, cheeks faintly flushed, handed me an envelope.

"Thanks." I tore it open and skimmed the contents.

My expression darkened with every line. Fury simmered. Magic power began leaking uncontrollably.

THUMP! THUMP! THUMP!!!

The inn trembled violently. Patrons stumbled, collapsing to the floor.

"Sir… please stop!" the waitress pleaded, face deathly pale. Closest to me, she bore the full weight of my aura.

"Mm, alright~~"

I strode out without looking back.

In thousands of years, I’d never lost composure like this. The letter had crossed my deepest taboo.

It wasn’t from Elle—but a stranger.

*Elle isn’t Elle. Her true name is Lanyatie. Chosen by Emperor Juelian of the Aran Empire as "imperial consort"—a hollow title. He coveted her peerless talent, planning to drain her magic during next year’s full Luna. She refused. Stole from the treasury. Fled. Consider this a warning: sever ties with her. Stay a humble adventurer. Never touch the Aran Emperor’s woman…*

The letter heavily stressed the Empire’s overwhelming might.

Hahahaha! How amusing—*truly* amusing! Hahahaha!

First time I’ve heard such a joke.

So… the Aran Empire, huh?

Fine. Since you’re *so* mighty…

Let’s see if I can’t wipe you off the map.