HTNSA 145

Chapter 145

The moment Eila stepped into the side room adjoining the banquet hall, the noise from outside faded away.

She first cast a cleaning spell on Biyo’s clothes, then smoothed his hair with her fingers.

“It tickles.”

“Just a little more, Biyo.”

After fixing his hair, she adjusted his outfit neatly.

“All done. Good boy, Biyo. You endured well.”

Biyo blushed shyly at her words. At that moment, footsteps approached the door.

Eila tensed.

Who is it?

The door opened quietly.

She turned—and saw a familiar face. Kedric.

“Eila.”

“…Why are you here all of a sudden? Did you follow me?”

“I have something important to tell you.”

He carefully locked the door, crossed the room, and drew the curtains shut. Then he turned with a grave expression.

“By the way… who is that boy?”

“…Biyo. The Black Dragon.”

“Him?”

Kedric’s eyes widened.

“Incredible. He’s still just a child.”

“Dragons apparently learn magic naturally as soon as they finish their first molt.”

Eila shrugged lightly, but her face soon clouded with worry.

“But is it safe for you to be here? If Rosia finds out, it’ll be trouble.”

Kedric frowned.

“You’re right, I can’t stay long. I promised I’d return soon.”

“Then for you to come anyway… it must be important.”

“It is.”

His tone hardened. Taking a step closer, he lowered his voice.

“Following your advice, I reconciled with Rosia. She’s loosened her guard lately—I’ve even been inside her chambers. And there… I discovered evidence she’s been using forbidden magic.”

Eila froze at the shocking news.

“Wait—you didn’t touch it, did you? If you were caught—”

“Calm down. I’m not that reckless.”

Kedric clasped her hand firmly. She flinched but didn’t pull away.

“I only confirmed where it’s kept. If you need it, I’ll help you.”

“…”

“That’s all I came to say.”

Slowly, he released her. His gaze lingered, heavy with unspoken feelings.

Then—music swelled outside, and a herald’s voice rang out with the blare of trumpets.

“His Imperial Majesty the Emperor enters—!”

Kedric frowned.

“The Emperor’s here already. I must go.”

Without hesitation, he left quickly.

Eila stared at her hand, now empty and cooling where his warmth had been.

Later, after passing some time in the lounge, she returned to the banquet hall holding Biyo’s hand.

But her mind kept circling back to Kedric’s words:

“I discovered evidence Rosia was using forbidden magic.”

Ancient forbidden magic always required sacrifices. Dried monster hearts, eggs… such things.

If he found evidence…

Perhaps not only Rosia’s false identity, but all her crimes could be exposed. Even her involvement in controlling monsters at the Subjugation Festival.

If Father saw the truth…

A cold smile tugged at Eila’s lips.

If Calios realized Rosia’s deception, he would cast her out without hesitation—just as he once cast out Eila.

Lost in thought, she wandered aimlessly—until a strong hand suddenly caught her arm.

“Eila?”

She turned. Felix was staring down at her with concern.

“I’ve been calling you. What’s on your mind? You look pale.”

He gently brushed her cheek.

“Something happened in the lounge?”

Eila shook her head quickly.

“N-no. Nothing happened.”

Felix frowned slightly.

“Then why do you look so dazed?”

She took a short breath, forcing a smile.

“Maybe I’m just nervous.”

At that moment, the music cut off.

The lights dimmed, and the dais at the front shone brightly.

The Emperor sat at the central throne, the Empress on his right, the Empress Consort on his left.

The herald stepped forward, voice booming:

“Before the banquet begins in earnest, His Imperial Majesty will give his address.”

The Emperor’s voice, amplified by magic, filled the hall.

“My loyal subjects, honored guests, and people of this Empire…”

The speech continued at length.

Meanwhile, Felix held Biyo tightly to keep him from running.

“Eila, it’ll be your turn soon.”

“Mm.”

As whispers spread, the Emperor’s speech neared its end.

“…I thank you all for gracing this occasion, and may blessings and glory overflow upon the Empire.”

Applause erupted. When it subsided, the herald stepped forward again.

He announced the Black Dragon’s successful molt and then declared:

“Now, we present the symbol of the Empire—the Black Dragon, Lord Biyo, and his master, Lady Eila.”

The hall buzzed with murmurs.

“Lord Biyo? Is that the dragon’s name?”

“Surely…”

As curiosity rippled, Eila emerged from the crowd, holding the hand of a young boy.

Together, they walked the red carpet and bowed deeply before the Emperor.

He looked puzzled for a moment, then smiled warmly.

“Lady Eila, thank you for attending. But… where is the Black Dragon?”

Eila smiled faintly.

“This is Biyo, the Black Dragon. After his molt, he gained the ability to use magic.”

“Oh! So he can already take human form?”

Gasps spread among the nobles.

“Amazing. Wasn’t he just born recently? Already able to transform?”

“No wonder dragons are called divine beasts. Even Archmages struggle with transformation magic.”

The Emperor’s gaze softened kindly as he addressed them.

“Then, in recognition of your merit, the Imperial Palace will grant you a reward.”

Eila inhaled quietly.

“The Imperial House bestows upon you the Imperial Medal, monthly stipends befitting the Black Dragon’s master, and the right to serve in any Imperial institution of your choice.”

Eila’s eyes widened.

The Imperial Medal—an honor even most nobles never attained. Receiving it meant she, though common-born, would be treated as a baroness.

And freedom to work in any Imperial office…

She smirked inwardly. Clearly, the Emperor wanted her to stay in the Capital after graduation.

No reason to refuse.

I’ll declare I’ll work as Piony’s aide.

Calmly, she bowed.

“It is an honor, Your Majesty.”

The Emperor lifted a ceremonial sword, tapping her head and shoulders.

Applause resounded. All but one person watched with admiration.

The Empress twisted her lips silently, thoughts churning.

So it’s true… A newborn dragon of this power. No wonder Rian coveted it.

Her fingertips tingled.

When it matures… unimaginable. I must have it.

As Eila turned away with Biyo, the Empress’s piercing gaze followed, sharp as a blade.