Spoiler The Princess Imprints a Traitor

It wasn't frowned on upon others to have a harem. Instead it just looks bad in general as an imperial member to have fun just sleeping with a bunch of people together. If you think about it, the emperor has a harem too with his many wives so it's not a bad thing. Sex in general wasn't frowned upon. It's just that some kept it a secret to put on a certain image, like Rosie with her white rose image, so she wanted to look innocent, when in actuality she had sex before. But the other royals think of sex as a normal thing and it's expected for personal knights to "teach" their imperial master sex under the guise of pre-marital education. Even the emperor reminded Michael to do his duties. What kind of father would tell a guy to have sex with his daughter under "pre-marital education"? It's just a different sort of mindset....

With Bridget's harem, it just looks worse compared to MC because they were coerced to it. Remember that homunculus can't go against an imperial, so Bridget forced them all to be sex slaves. I think that's the main deal with it because we see the other imperials forcing their personal knights to have night services with them, but with MC she never did that. There's that constant reminder that Sylvie feels degraded when night service is brought up. Also with Elijah who gets punished "at night" when he disagrees with Bridget. And at the beginning when Derek and Stefania tried to punish Michael themselves because they felt he didn't do his duty to provide those services to Eve.

 

Chapter 201-210

Spoiler: timeline

• Sylvie was surprised by MC's action while Bridget's brows twitched in irritation. MC took the sword from Bridget's hand and placed it back in its sheath. Then she announced she will take charge of Sylvie. She felt this is the best solution since ML can cut the imprint later, now that he's the king of homunculus. However, since they cannot reveal ML's abilities, she have to play the role of being Sylvie's master in front of Bridget. She announced once Sylvie's imprint is cut off, she will re-imprint him.
• Sylvie was the most surprised out of all of them. He also felt the most guilt for feeling joy of taking this opportunity in such a situation. It was a feeling he shouldn't have as a knight. At the same time, MC eyed to ML telling him to be patient. ML couldn't help it either as it's to help his friend. He repressed his desire to monopolize the seat as MC's personal knight. He nodded hesitantly and thought to himself he will cut off the imprint later.
• Bridget was the one who couldn't hide her expression of dislike as she asked MC if she's taking in another knight when she already have a personal knight. It's rare for an imperial to imprint two homunculus. This could even be seen as a challenge of the emperor's authority. Moreover, Sylvie was a personal knight of Rosie, the white rose of the empire, and he himself, was a highly regarded knight as well. If MC has both ML and Sylvie, it felt like she's taking two trophies for herself.
• MC has no selfish wish as Bridget thinks of the situation. She proclaimed she only wished to save Sylvie. She didn't bother to wait for Bridget's response either as waiting would just give her more time to squeeze out an opposition. She made a final appeal to Bridget that Bridget would have the same heart as her to prevent Rosie from losing her knight and told her to hurry with cutting the imprint.
• Bridget finally agreed and stood by Rosie's bed, placing her hand over Rosie's mana core to push mana inside to break the link. Sylvie felt the pain from the broken link once the imprint was cut. He was going to go berserk but then MC held out her hand and bound Sylvie up with her silver Arachne threads. Bridget thought MC have some kinky taste. MC felt insulted, but pretended to voice out her enjoyment of it.
• Once his body stopped moving, she placed her hand on his forehead and started the imprinting. Even if Sylvie wasn't comparable to ML, he was still a strong homunculus so it took some effort for MC to imprint him. It wasn't long before Sylvie felt the unsteady energy fading and he burst out in exclamation at the success.
• ML helped Sylvie balance himself from falling. Sylvie grasped his left chest feeling all sorts of indescribable feeling.
• When MC turned to check on Rosie, the dark energy soared from Rosie's body and as if trying to explode at MC. ML and Sylvie both stepped forward to protect her. It was then Rosie's body formed and gave out a silhouette of Ambroxa with its 7 heads.
• Ambroxa's voice rang out saying its too late. Each head twist like a snake and looked around the room as if searching for a prey. As if the gaze landed on MC, it told them, he already planted himself into Rosie's body. Only ML pulled out his sword when everyone else was feeling overwhelmed and trembling.
• Once Ambroxa said out his proclamation, ML struck his sword at the spirit form of Ambroxa.
• At the same time, Rosie was wandering in darkness in the nightmare Ambroxa created. Somehow she found a path of belladonna flowers and with each step she takes, the blossoms wither and produce a fruit of deep blue (belladonna fruit). At the end of the path she saw a man standing there with black robe, but instead of a face, in its place was a mass of dark energy. The person welcomed her for finally coming to him.
• Ambroxa told Rosie that she will be the one to help him accomplish his plan. He kept telling her to kill her sister and give her to him so he can make ML despair. Rosie kept refuting him. She doesn't know why she has to kill MC and never thought of that. It was then the robe came off and Ambroxa invited himself to kiss her. The dark energy came out from under the robe like vines and reached for Rosie. As she kept struggling, she finally stopped screaming as the dark energy forcibly went into her mouth. Rosie fell into a deeper nightmare.
• Two coffins were carried out in their return to the palace, one for Derek and the other where Rosie is sleeping. MC bid Morien and Helione goodbye. Rrior to the departure she glanced at Rosie's body that looked like a sleeping princess from a fairy tale who had ate a poison apple. MC felt some sense of gloom as she muttered to herself an almost empty promise to have tea together when they get back.
• ML came to pick her up and they started their days journey back to the palace. The first thing she saw once she arrived at the warp portal was a distressed messy looking Alben informing her they're in trouble as fire had broken out at the capital.
• Stafania's cries could be heard from the front of the main palace when she saw Derek's body from the opened up wooden coffin. 300 homunculus knights stood solemnly in their guarding position. Desmond II approached down the stairs to see a crying and fainted Stefania. He glanced at the coffin before ordering a funeral prepared.
• The wooden coffin was moved, and there remains a glass coffin with Rosie sleeping inside. Desmond II's face was engulfed in bitterness as he looked at her and desperately told her to open her eyes and asked how this could have happened. MC and Bridget lowered their heads even further as the emperor continued to apologize to Rosie for sending her there.
• It was then he turned to look at MC and Bridget and yelled at them for not taking care of their younger siblings properly. MC and Bridget who couldn't bear the wrath of their father apologized and fell to kneel on one knee. It was the emperor's aide who reminded him to think of the imperial prestige, when he then return to his emperor expression and ordered them to follow him and report.
• At the palace, Desmond II sat on a throne of gold adorned with jewels. Bridget was the first to report. She started talking from when she entered the gate, intentionally to avoid mentioning the contributions MC had made. Bridget even attempted to put Derek's death as if he was willing to die on the honor of resolving the sealed stone issue.
• When the emperor's gaze fell on MC, he didn't bother to give her a chance to speak. It was as if he'll rather clean up the situation quickly than to deal with the horrible truth. As MC had predicted, Desmond II tried to use Snow as scapegoat for not protecting her imprinter well.
• Snow knelt on both knees. It was MC who stepped in front of Snow and calmly told her father that Snow was Derek's cherished knight and appealed to the emperor to have mercy on her and keep her as a memento. The anger in Desmond II's eyes subsided and instead he punished Snow imprisonment for a week with no food or drink. It was a generous ruling, but MC had secret plans to smuggle food to Snow.
• The next ordering was to find out how Rosie ended up as such. But even with the report, Desmond's anger was at a maximum as he yelled out at them why Rosie had to end up like that. Everyone lowered their heads and hold in their breath. It was Bridget who spoke first once again and placed MC in a bad light as she put on a story that it was MC who forced Rosie to enter the gate first with her. Needless to say, the emperor reprimanded MC for using Rosie.
• MC then cried and began to say she had no other choice but to use Rosie when she wanted to protect herself when no one at the palace sides with her. She then told the emperor to punish her for being selfish as she continued to tear up. Desmond II wasn't able to ignore her cries and felt a light empathy for her. Bridget looked upset at the situation.
• Bridget glared at MC as if to tell her to stop fake crying and MC continued on with her act. MC knows she still have to appeal to the emperor, so she told him she will deal with the curse from Ambroxa and ask her master to help remove the curse. With that said, it gave Desmond II some hope as her master is a sage.
• Bridget tried to bring forth the story about Sylvie by asking the emperor if he should still be kept around to guard Rosie, but MC covered her mouth and spoke over her, telling the emperor she will take special care of Rosie. Thanks to that, the emperor's face found some comfort.
• But Bridget then told the emperor to see passed MC's hidden intentions and told him that MC directly imprinted Sylvie's knight when she put Rosie into hibernation. She was about to say MC ignored imperial law and tried to challenge their father's authority, when he stopped her and brought up Chansley's crime.
• Everyone but MC and ML trembled from the mental influence. Desmond II continued to yell at Bridget for not keeping her people in check as they had violated the fire control laws. They went over the threshold in smuggling coal into a warehouse. They were lucky enough an official reported the warehouse being suspicious, thus the fire was cut down. Five warehouses would've caught on fire but only two did thanks to that.
• Bridget tried to say she was frame. The emperor told her not to lie since he was the one who covered her faults up. He was angered that many of his people were subjected to be burned due to her mistake. 673 people were reported to be killed thus far and they're still looking for Chansley.
• The emperor continued to interrogate Bridget and asked her if she knows anything about the prostitutions. Bridget continued to deny all allegations. Desmond II continued to say when they were trying to find the body, they discovered the basement of the building to be strange. He then threw the blueprints of the building at Bridget to the floor. Elijah picked them up for her.
• As he continued to interrogate her, she continued to remain silent. The emperor was disgusted such dirty things was done under his nose. Bridget decided to cut Chansley off and have him take the blame. Desmond had no other way but to agree but continue to tell Bridget she's incompetent. Bridget felt a sense of humiliation. The emperor will have to cover it up to make Chansley take the blame.
• It was then the emperor turn to interrogate MC. He knew the bathhouse business under Luciard belongs to MC, so he asked her if she had anything to do with the prostitutions. MC told him that her business was able to boom because she predicted the prostitutions, but her people are clean from the crime. She also told the emperor that Anais would've refused to do business with her if that were to happen. Anais knelt down to confessed that.
• This made MC look better in the emperor's eyes. Bridget was punished under probation.
• When both princesses left the room, Bridget released and exploded in anger at Chansley. She had some slight home to recover as the emperor is still willing to cover for her. All she have to do is cover up Chansley.
• Bridget who liked to walk in the center of the hall, told MC to move aside. MC told her that it's a good thing Bridget didn't kill her at Dandelion because then Bridget will have to speak out some honor for her death, just like how she wrapped Derek's death in honor, and that would be too much for Bridget to handle. Bridget's face turned pale and she clenched her fist and MC excused herself first.
• MC return to her residence. She wasn't able to have a joyful reunion in the midst of everything that had happened. Only Sedella and ML from the residence was there, as Peony had to draft out a report to send to Desmond II and Sylvie who just temporarily became her knight was left under Rihanna and Hugh.
• Julia who was left at the capital while Anais followed MC on the dispatch, reported information on the fire. Almost 700 people killed, currently over 600 reported injured and in need of aid and treatment, 35 nearby building burned down, among them 5 apartment houses. Count Reindel and Marquis Mithiello are in charge of relief. MC plan to put Peony and Rihanna as her representatives for relief work.
• To put into perspective why it was illegal smuggle of coal to warehouse, it had to do with illegal construction of furnaces underground. Remember Chansley also tried to start bathhouse business, but without the rechargeable manastone that was laced under the empire, he resorted to heating up water with furnaces. The over the threshold is for fire safety measure. Basically he was smuggling too much coal that increases the risk of fire and also the furnaces weren't built with proper ventilation (easier to cause fire) to heat up water for his businesses. On top of the fact his bathhouses were also doing prostitution on the side.
• MC was looking over at the blueprint with her people. From the blueprints she also noticed some areas locked up and believe they're for human trafficking. That leads to another issue where that connects with a group of criminals (Back Alley Guild) from the slums. On another report, MC noticed it was written by Rubio and it deals with the slums. Alben reminded her Rubio was tasked with the mission to migrate the slums and while he was doing that he had noticed some illegal dealings. Rubio investigated on the movements of the criminals. They worked with Chansley even before the prostitutions bathhouse business.
• MC knew there was no way Rubio would hand over such confidential material to Alben for no reason. Alben told her that Rubio suggested a cooperative secret investigation with him. He was originally looking into the illegal aphrodisiac (narcotic drug added into aphrodisiac) and accidentally ran into Rubio. That meant the human trafficking also reached the night societies.
• Alben handed a report to MC that he haven't shared with Rubio yet as he needed her permission. It's about the connection of the Alchemy Potion Guild, Back Alley Guild, and Night Society. The potion guild makes drugs and provide it to the Back Alley Guild. They in turn supply the drugs to the slums to use to drugs to induced them into selling themselves and their children. Sometimes these people are delivered to the Night Society to be used as sex slaves for nobles. Chansley didn't see anything wrong in what he does as he's not the one doing the human trafficking. The Night Society is a separate run business he kept separate from his bathhouse prostitution businesses.
• Alben also handed MC a list of nobles who supported Bridget. He wanted to cut them all off as it'll reduce the nobles by 2/3 and it'll make it easier for her advance her cause but then Sedella and MC reminded him to be moderate. Alben then apologized and claimed he needed someone like MC as his monarch. MC swallowed a laughter as she thought she would never hear that. Even so MC does agree just have Chansley taken down is not enough. They would have to get rid of as much as possible.
• The next three days, MC held a total of 5 long meetings until night. While she was dealing with the investigation secretly, she was also called by the emperor to report on the dispatch. Desmond II was finally informed of the world tree. She even told him the truth that she was able to increase her mana core thanks to the tree branch used as a medium. Desmond II wasn't one to be upset at his child's growth was even showing honest interest in the branch.
• The branch she brought already lost its purpose since only one world tree can exist in the world. MC had actually planned to give her father the branch to score some points from him. She had been putting it by Rosie's bedside to help purify her. Desmond II told her to do that. But even MC had a feeling it won't do much as the world tree powers can only work on her.
• Desmond II planned to set up a warp portal directly to Igdras in the future to have alchemists and magicians study on the world tree. MC was pleased with that as only major cities have warp portals.
• After that she asked him to give her the permission to manage the special affairs. The position is usually only given to special nobles or to imperials with high succession to the throne. MC reported to him about the narcotic aphrodisiacs. Desmond II had been upset about that issue before (he calls it "unhealthy sex life"). She added to Rubio's report (Rubio reported on his portion before with the slums so she reported the Night Society which wasn't part of his report).
• MC dragged in some noble names to ask the emperor to give her permission to look into their dealings with the crime that might be attached to Chansley since they have strong relationship with him. MC appealed to her father by saying she wished to protect Bridget by making a bigger story with the other cases to divert the crimes away from Chansley and Bridget. (She didn't report that the drugs were connected to Chansley and Bridget either as she kept some of her investigation confidential until needed to be revealed.)
• To Desmond II, MC was being a good sibling to Bridget. Thus he appointed her the position.
• When MC returned to the residence, more thick reports for her. The next day, more meetings. Even in the midst of the busy schedule, she would take a bit of time to check on Rosie and Snow. The people around her worried she barely slept, but she took no notice. Sedella nagged her to sleep since MC didn't sleep the night prior.
• Sylvie brought tea to her. Sedella knew MC is weak against homunculus chose to have Sylvie help to get MC to rest. When MC unintentionally mentioned to Sylvie that Sedella had made Sylvie bring her lavender tea to get her to sleep, it was then she belatedly realize it might be misunderstood. Sylvie excused himself as someone who was only placed in his position temporarily so he isn't qualified to serve her. MC explained to him that she had no intention to follow that hierarchal duty anyway. Besides she have ML.
• Their conversation changed as she tried to ask him if he had any inconvenience working at her place, and whenever his mental state stabilizes, he can tell ML to cut the imprint. Sylvie told her, he want to be working under her a bit more. MC think that's a good thing as she doesn't think Sylvie is good at acting so he won't be able to act as a personal knight outside. Sylvie kept his thoughts to himself as he feel it is possible since it won't be an act for him to want to be her knight.
• MC told him to continue taking care of her and he agrees with eyes displaying both joy and sadness, already looking into the future when he won't be under her imprint. All this will just be a fleeting dream. MC already thought she will be returning Sylvie to Rosie once she's awake.
• Before leave, Sylvie told her to sleep and commented that she's someone who takes care of others, but should also take care of herself. It was then MC felt some shame. She was taught be her father the emperor need to be in good health and she was doing the exact opposite, not taking care of herself.
• ML then called her name many times. She looked back and saw him. He had been out of the palace for two days helping Alben with the investigation. While ML was looking at her cleaning her desk, he wasn't too pleased seeing all the ink that looks like blood splatter to him, or seeing the condition of his lover, which made his eyes sank. Even so, his method is different from Seella and Sylvie. He smiled to her and told her if she have work, then she should work. MC can do whatever she want to do.
• ML then suggest they should check out district 13 (where the fire occurred) together. She agreed.
• Outside, the area was filled with gloom, shelters and tents were lined up for people with homes destroyed by the fire. There were places distributing winter clothes as the season is getting colder. MC felt suffocated by the atmosphere. ML asked her if she's okay and she responded she's fine, despite her face all pale.
• ML shared a comment how a lot more people died last life, but MC still felt upset as she knew the fire was going to happen and she still couldn't stop it. She started to feel guilt. ML told her to blame him, since he's the one who brought her back. MC couldn't agree with that since he gave her a chance. Even so ML told her, he didn't bring her back to have a cause. He just wanted her alive, as simple as that. The fault lies in Bridget who just chose to become more evil to deal with MC.
• MC responded she must have become sentimental. Just because she returned, doesn't mean she can control everything in the world. She shouldn't be mistaking that being the axis of time is the same as being the axis of the world. She felt humbled. ML told her that's tough to agree on since she's the center of his world. She blushed from his words.
• Even with all his sweet words, not all grief could be erased as the situation around them doesn't look that good. Not too far away, there were protests going on where guards were holding them back. The people blamed the imperial family for the fire. They all demand the death of Chansley and cried out who will pay for the deaths of their loved ones or the things they've lost.
• ML's top priority is MC's safety so he suggested moving. As they walked away, a sound can be heard above all the shouts and cries. A song being sung above the clock tower. Rimona. The people quickly recognized her and the wind continued to carry her song throughout. it was a song singing for the death of many and to soothe the heart of the living. After her song, she came down from the tower, with many thanking her.
• It was then someone noticed a royal carriage passed by and they all got distracted. Rimona was grabbed by the wrist and led to an opposite street where another hidden carriage was there. The door opened and Rimona got on. MC offered to send Rimona home.
• MC apologized to Rimona that she haven't been in contact with her. She wondered if Rimona is angry at her. Rimona told her she was never angry. MC told her she was depressed a while ago, but Rimona's song made her feel better. After she finished speaking, she yawned. She finally felt some relief as her friend had forgiven her.
• Rimona can see MC haven't been sleeping. It was then, she got up and move to sit by the side of MC and she told her to lie down, while tapping on her lap. MC felt embarrassed, but Rimona told her, she'll sing her a lullaby. She started treating MC like a child and calling her 'princess'. MC complained and felt a bit embarrassed saying she's not a 'princess', even though she felt a slight desire to reveal the truth. Rimona said she know and told her not to think about anything and sleep.
• The carriage became a cradle for MC as she fell asleep listening to Rimona's lullaby. She woke up when they got to Rimona's place. After that, the carriage rolled to a secluded area where she picked up ML. MC warmed his hands as she felt bad for having him stay out.
• ML is glad she looked much better now as though she was rested. He felt bad he wasn't able to comfort her himself so instead he had Rimona do it. MC comforted him that what he said was also comforting. ML was still regretful. He told her, he had originally wanted to comfort her with something other than words. He didn't explain what but his eyes were dark giving a meaningful glance. Ashamed, MC blushed and made an excuse that it suddenly became hot. In the distance, the palace came to view.
• A few days had passed since that day. Desmond II had been summoning magicians and alchemists from all over the empire to unravel Rosie's curse. Most of them came because they want to lay eyes on the white rose. Not many get to see her though. The spectacle of the long lines was no different from the past life when ML called people to resurrect the dead.
• When MC came to visit Rosie, the maids taking care of Rosie, excused themselves. It was the usual visit so some were prepared. MC sat by her bed and said her name. No response. It was obvious since she was still in the state of hibernation. MC told her it would be nice if she could open her eyes soon and before she left she promised to come back again. MC missed the twitch from Rosie's hand as she left.
• ML worried about MC's state. He doesn't want her to visit Rosie in fear the dark energy will get to MC. MC recalled the curse Ambroxa cried out before. It wanted to cut the veins of the imperial family and give the ugly creatures (homunculus) a taste of despair. But from the actions of Ambroxa who was staring at her, it was enough to say his aim wasn't to cut the veins of the imperial family as that wouldn't cause despair to the homunculus. It was aiming to kill her to cause ML, the king of homunculus, despair.
• After completing her realization of its curse, her gaze flowed to ML. ML, who couldn't notice why she was looking at him so seriously, reacted playfully and asked why she's looking at him like that; it makes his heart flutter. MC then, laughed and blushed.
• But ML didn't just stop there as he found the opportunity to be a bit spiteful. He started to complain that she didn't keep her promise to him. She had promised she won't leave him alone when they get back to the palace but she already had him running around for a week dealing with the potion guild. He called her a liar. While he understand she's been busy, a week had passed and he wondered if she had thoughts of leaving him alone for that long. She apologized to him.
• He didn't take her apology and started to blame for his lack of charm. He decided he need to polish it a bit more. MC couldn't agree with that as how could he polish it more. She held his hand tightly to reassure him, so he won't go overboard on his charm for the safety of her heart. With determination on her face, she told me they can go. ML told her it's broad daylight though. MC told him does it matter since every time she's next to ML, it can be considered night in bed.
• ML's eyes already lit up in excitement of what's to come, while MC tried to readjust her schedule in her head, but then when they reach the front door, Sedella was there informing her a valuable guest is waiting . MC tried to tell Sedella that she's in an urgent situation right now, so maybe another day, but then Sedella told her, the guest is her master.
• Both MC and ML's eyes widened in surprise.
• The three are drinking tea at the greenhouse. MC served her master and ML tea. Her master complimented her on her tea blending skills improving day by day. MC felt proud from the compliment. There were some light conversation between master and disciple. MC apologized to her master that she wasn't able to visit her.
• It was then, dark eyes turned to look at ML and both greeted each other coldly. Despite ML's cold tone, it was rather polite, only because she's MC's master.
• Her master can tell ML had recovered all his memories. She made a comment remembering that ML had said he will find the person who decided to turn back time and kill him, or make fun of him if he failed (this was because at that time he didn't know he was the one who chose to turn back time for MC). ML's ears dyed red from the surprise attack. MC's gaze struck his cheek as if seemingly asking him if he really said that. He regretfully asked if the sage hates him. Her master admits to it.

 

Thanks for the spoilers
This isn’t the first time but it really baffles me how oblivious the emperor is to his daughters true intentions sometimes.

 

Alright guys so.... Those knights have to "Serve" their master right? Aka s*x. Does that mean our ML slept with that bitch in the past? That's why she thought the father of her baby was him? oh please no, Cuz like, ew disgusting

look, EVEN if he did it in the past timeline, he still remembers the past cuz his memories are coming back ... So I would say he ain't a virgin anymore, because he remembers what he did with the bich, UNLESS, the memories he regains are only about him and the FL, then he doesn't remember the disgusting deed with the bich. I just hope, really HOPE he didn't actually sleep with her, cuz the reason "I love you, i only have eyes for you" but then do s*x with some other girl, is FOR ME personally, disgusting ʘ‿ʘ

 

OK I was a bit uncomfortable with this too, but then i thought about it and like, it's not as if ml and mc were in a relationship? He was just one sidedly in love with her. And he didn't seduce rosie and slept with her because he desired her. It was a sort of mission? So technically he didn't cheat on her either physically or emotionally. He does have his memories of that, and he is damn ashamed of everything he did in his past life. Honestly i don't even think about that issue after reading all the detailed spoilers by our angel @NohrNeir.

 

Well, the 2nd timeline is 8 years earlier in where micheal hasn’t been imprinted by anyone so technically he is as pure and not involved with any imperial blood.
As eve said, the current situation is 3 years before micheal become rosie’s personal knight. So for me, they already live in diff dimensions. Nevertheless, the last timeline eve never involve herself with any of the homonculus and has not direct relationship with micheal. She even thought he hated her. Yes he did love her and wish to be her personal knight but she never showed any interest. That’s why he choose to seduce rosie the white lotus to revenge since she is an easy target. Sleeping and serving the imperial are the duty of the personal knight, basically they are also sex slaves and all in one. He choose revenge over love on the last timeline. Though it took him 5 years to avenge the imperial. He managed to revenge only in a week after hearing about her marriage far from the country.

 

To be honest i don't like how this novel ended at all, Rosie's redemption didn't seem genuine since she was like "i don't wanna die this time, so i'll just side with my sister". The fact that the MC and ML's daughter consider her second favourite person left a bad taste on my mouth. I would have prefered a bad ending for her and the whole royal family apart from the MC, i mean they toyed with the the humunculus for such a long time so i would have liked more drama and justice.

 

@highsky44 I also wished Rosie got punished. Pretty sure most readers originally would've thought she would be the villainess of this novel rather than Bridget who was barely mentioned in the prologue or even in the beginning. I also think if she didn't recalled Michael imprisoning her and treating her badly in past life when Eve died, she would've probably still been pining obsessively for Michael. Her change was very drastic, but I guess that nightmare with Ambroxa really weakened her to that state. She was mentally weak to begin with.

***​

Chapter 211-220

Spoiler: timeline

• MC's master didn't like ML since he seduced her cherished disciple away from the way from the goal of becoming a sage. She originally was going to lead MC to become the next sage of Crescent Lake, but her disciple couldn't overcome his beauty and fell for his face and body. ML just accepted her words as he couldn't tell what her intentions are for saying that.
• It was MC who defended ML and told her master not to blame ML since it was her own choice to become emperor, rather than continue the path of alchemy. Her master wasn't happy her disciple was defending ML.
• According to her master, their reason for being together was fated. Even with the two lives, he still fell for MC again, but her explanation of their fate isn't meant to be romantic since it was more of a fate formed from the wills of the homunculus longing. She reminded him how she told him the king of homunculus existed because of the longing they had for 300 years.
• This longing created the king of homunculus which is perfect in every trait, with the strength to defeat dragons, the strong mental ability to not get brainwashed by the emperor, the charisma to liberate and gather people under him, and charm enough to attract the imperial family.
• Homunculus are creatures that rely on the imperial family to survive. Originally they weren't good looking but overtime, they've developed the survival instinct and became more attractive. As the king of homunculus, he has max traits on charm. It was enough to allow him to survive even when he wasn't able to be imprinted by the emperor, the emperor let him live. It was also the charm to make Rosie obsess with him.
• ML realized his existence was arranged in order to choose an imperial as a companion. Even in the past life, that proved true as even with the rebellion, he used Rosie. ML wasn't too pleased to find out what he thought was his choice was in fact fated by the wills of the homunculus, but when he looked at MC, he corrected his thoughts. After all it was thanks to these abilities from the selfish thoughts of the homunculus, he was able to capture MC.
• Me took her hand confidently and told her master that it's exciting to say that he was born to seduce MC from the beginning. MC smiled back from his response and replied that he's not seducing any other imperials so she feels honored he wanted to seduce her. Her master watched the two went from a sad atmosphere to an affectionate atmosphere.
• She then cut them off and told ML that he's lucky a good imperial person was born at the same time as him. Anyway she hope he will be happy so no more turning back time. ML expressed his gratitude to her by putting his hand to his chest.
• Now onto the main reason why her master came, Rosie's curse from Ambroxa. MC told her master that Rosie was placed in hibernation to stop the curse from being completely cursed. Even so, hibernation cannot stop death so her master is going to take a look at Rosie's condition.
• The three of them visited Rosie's residence. Her master after checking, told them it's not a curse. But before she went into explaining that she apologized to ML for tricking him before in last life. For the time regression, the axis of time only needed anyone with imperial blood, and Rosie who was living at that time was actually a more suitable candidate but her master wanted MC.
• Humans are beings that are prone to repeat the same mistakes so Ambroxa is actually trying to return Rosie's memories to her in order to have her try to kill MC again. They can't leave Rosie in hibernation forever so she will wake up with her memories. MC will have to make a decision. ML was determined to kill her. ML believes if they don't kill her, MC will die.
• Her mater asked her for her choice and after some thought in silence, she still have no intention to kill Rosie. ML opened his mouth to object, but MC raised her hand to stop him and looked at her master. She then told her master that she will just have to imprint Rosie. ML was surprise but MC continue to explain that imprinting isn't only possible for homunculi. All the means of restraining homunculi were originally used for human slavery before. The reason why it's not really heard of is because it's illegal and humans are protected under imperial law.
• MC know there's a dark magic called geass. They have to borrow the power of demons or dragons in order to use that skill. Her master find the choice of her disciple interesting and decided to teach her the skill.
• As for ML, ever since MC had cut off the imprint on him, she's waiting for him to raise his status but he misses the time when he have exclusive possession to her dominance. MC who didn't know his thoughts, led ML back to her place so she can start to learn geass.
• That night, MC sneaked into Rosie's place wearing a black robe, feeling like some evil warlock, and performed geass on Rosie. Perks of hibernation is that Rosie cannot reject over the imprinting. However, they cannot be sure if the spell works until when she wakes up again. They just have to hope it works, since if Rosie has the will to resist, it'll be an issue when she wakes up. Her master, left that day without a worry though.
• The next day MC woke up early to Alben waiting to report to her. Alben told her it's finally time to reap what they've prepared.
• One autumn night when temperatures have dropped as if to warn for the winter rainy season, and the moon hid behind the clouds, whilst the silence outside, the secret residence of Count Hardenfolk was bustling as ever. Luxurious carriages would passed through the front door of the manor. People wearing masks would descend and enter the manor. Just like them, MC got off the carriage, dressed seductively as the rest of them, and headed into the manor.
• A wizard would scan their invitation to allow them in and once passed, he welcomed them inside. MC smiled as she stepped in.
• Aside from the beautiful interior of the place, everything else was ugly from the corrupt nobles and the promiscuous banquet. Nobles drank, ate, burned cigars and gamble away with large sums of money and even their own bodies. Bodies entangled everywhere. Silhouettes of naked body of many were seen. As if the giggles and screams weren't enough, hosts would encourage more excitement by setting up strippers and dancers to entice the nobles. MC can tell these dancers were provided by the Dark Alley Guild.
• MC avoided all the drinks there as they were drugged or too strong. She decided to head upstairs where it might be less conspicuous. But as she turned the corner, she bumped into Rimona. While MC knows that singing here could boost Rimona's popularity as a singer, she had told the Pegasus group to block these sort of places for Rimona to perform at. She wondered if the theater got blinded by money and put her there or did the count threatened them.
• Even so, Rimona didn't know it was MC and bowed her head as she thought MC was one of those perverted nobles. MC didn't want to explain and just let Rimona off. She told herself she will have to check at Pegasus group after this.
• At the 4th floor, someone then approached to hand her a drink. MC took a drink as she knew it's Alben in disguise. He reported to her that the three groups have infiltrated the place already, but some things will be difficult to collect as evidence. Each of the three groups are in charge of different things, rescuing trafficked victims, search for narcotic drugs, and search for evidence of the two. After some reporting and orders, they raised a thumbs up at each other in agreement.
• It was at that time, they heard a scream, Alben stopped talking and looked at MC. MC felt there's now another place she wants to detonate. Alben told her he will remove anything offensive to her as evidence to his loyalty. She finds him reliable. With the reporting finished, they moved separately.
• Before they split up, Alben told her to take care of herself. She told him she has a magic she had learned that would help for today. She hope she doesn't have to use it though. When she reached out to him asking if he wished to know, Alben instinctively cowered back his shoulders and told her it looks dangerous. MC agree since she doesn't want to block his soul. They split up after he agree to give her satisfactory results.
• MC went down to the 2nd floor and she could see the the three sons of Count Sermund and also the naked couple of Baron Andant, along with some other naked nobles. The view made her sigh. But being a beautiful lady alone at such a place is bound to attract flies.
• A man approached her trying to seduce her with words that sound like vomit to her. MC tried to used the same tactic she did at the masquerade and told him she's a married woman with two children. It was obvious that wouldn't work as the man then told her he's also a married man with a family too, and he was even more ecstatic to be having an affair.
• MC almost forgot to remain elegant and wanted to curse the guy out, but then brushed her embarrassment off to look around her. She then noticed that other male nobles had also wanted to aim for her and felt upset at the missed opportunity. MC then thought of a plan. She clenched her fist and smiled brightly, telling them it's more exciting to do it as a group. They all jumped at it enthusiastically.
• She took them all to a room on the 2nd floor and after the curtains were drawn and they tried to undress, she pushed one of them to the bed, demanding her lie down. He liked her being aggressive and then fell. All the half naked men she pushed dropped with her sleep magic. As punishment, she made them infertile with her magic. Light glowed at the lower half of their bodies.
• She came out of the room feeling refreshed. but the surrounding gazes watched her in admiration thinking she can handle the desperate stamina of 5 men. MC then realized her mistake and tried to hide.
• She went back to wandering checking on the 1st floor from where she is, and noticed the music had been cut off and a new event is starting at the first floor. Rimona was placed at the center of the turmoil being harassed. They started to insult her saying she only did well because of her sponsorship under the 7th princess. They they brought up a rumor that the 7th princess is attracted to female and probably sponsored her because of that.
• Rimona's shoulders trembled in humiliation and from the insult. It was a place she didn't want to perform in the first place. They had been persistent with their invite to have her perform there and she kept rejecting them. She also knew most of the nobles at the night society are supporters of Bridget who opposes MC, so she was sure their invitation to her have malicious intentions, but then last night they kidnapped the son of the owner of the Pegasus group and threatened him.
• When she saw the troupe pouring in tears, Rimona had no choice but to help them, especially when before she joined the group, she was starved and physically abused often.
• As the nobles kept insulting MC, Rimona talked back to them to not speak of the 7th princess in such disgrace. They mocked her questioning her if they think she will receive MC's protection there. A noble then tried to "educate" her.
• MC clenched at the railing while looking down. Alben then showed up smiling brightly that they found it. MC laughed and praised him for his good timing. She then jumped over the railing from the 2nd floor and used magic to land on the first floor.
• Rimona was being forced to kneel and the nobles were about to shove cold ice at her when MC stood in front of Rimona and asked the nobles what kind of manners they have to abuse a lady. The nobles asked who she is. She questioned them back asking how they don't know her and then removed her mask, to tell them her name.
• She waved her hand and a strong gust of wind broke out on the ceiling, shaking the windows. The windows all broke at once and armed knights appeared led by ML. They all surrounded MC.
• One of the nobleman also removed his mask and revealed himself as Viscount Lucio, one of Count Hardenfolk's closest associates. He questioned how she could use force like this when it's impossible for her to intrude on the noble's night society bringing the emperor's knights with her.
• MC told him that she's not here with the status of the princess. Lucio expressed a face as if he couldn't understand. MC then raised her body and proclaim under the authority of the Task Force, Count Hardenfolk is to be confiscated, searched and arrested for trafficking, drug distribution, promoting prostitution, and contempt of the imperial family. All guests here are under investigation for allegations of the same crime. She unleashed her Silver Arachne on nobles who attempted to escape.
• As the guards of the district dragged Lucio out, he tried to put all the blame on Hardenfolk. Arden hit him on the back to make him quiet and approached MC to report to her. On the 2nd and 3rd floor of the basement they were able to find the victims and drugs. Some victims were sent to the hospital.
• They were able to catch Hardenfolk. He was dragged and forced to kneel before MC. The count tried to appeal to MC to have mercy on him. MC laughed coldly and tell Alben to put him into the imperial prison to have her interrogate him herself using the tools she used well. Alben played along with her wicked act and started listing the torture weapons. They pretended to be master and servant in good harmony. The count passed out in horror, urinating on himself. MC and Alben took three steps back to avoid the yellow filth (urine).
• MC ordered Alben to make a connection between the night society with Bridget. Alben told her not to worry and went to ML.
• Alben tells ML to put Lucio and his men at the darkest place at Debonea prison. ML tells Alben to bring him to interrogate Hardenfolk when he does interrogate him. Alben wanted to put the 5 nobles from the 2nd floor in room 11 at special isolation. ML asked if they're main criminals, to which Alben told him, they're beasts who wanted to play with MC overnight. ML said he'll put them with Lucio's men. Cold air emitted from ML and Alben trembled wondering if it's cold because the windows were broken.
• The place was cleared out by the Retribution Knights and the 14th district guards. MC turned back slowly to meet eyes with Rimona who was still sitting on the floor, looking up at MC dazed. Rimona then call her name and MC responded back, but then Rimona returned back to her senses and greeted her as a commoner would to an imperial.
• MC told her, she doesn't have to do that. She also apologized to her for tricking her, but she liked being with Rimona and feel comfortable around her so she kept procrastinating with telling the truth. There was heavy silence after her long apology, but then Rimona told her she also wanted to be close with MC and she already knew MC is a princess from a while ago.
• MC was surprised. Rimona confessed about the opening ceremony during the summer festival, when she saw ML's face. That meant she knew when she also sang the lullaby to her. Rimona thought there must be a reason she didn't want to reveal it. Also she could tell MC might be stressed from the political battle so she can tell there are times MC might want to throw everything away and take a break from it, so she could give MC that place to rest.
• The two held hands with confirmation of staying friends. MC hugged Rimona around the neck tightly and later she felt Rimona patting her gently on the back.
• News spread about the many nobles that got arrested at Hardenfolk's mansion. Several reporters even went to try to uncover more about the night society and the trafficking cartels. They were met with luck as MC and Rubio intentionally leaked the information to them. There were also positive news as they portrayed MC in heroic light. There was also gossip on the friendship between a princess and a commoner, which became so popular, theaters start to write plays on it. People had gotten tired of the usual princess and the knight love stories and started to write stories based on friendship.
• Julia who was reading the news commented it wasn't enough to have a scandal with the roses at night (Rosie), but now even Rimona. She begged MC to have a scandal with her next. MC tried to cheer her up and suggested maybe the next masquerade. MC wouldn't reveal who the rose scandal is.
• When Alben came, she left Julia with Sedella. On the day MC went to Count Hardenfolk's manor, Rubio had also raided the Back Alley Guild and the Potion Guild. Alben informed to MC that they have all the evidence they need. It's already been 2 weeks since they did a thorough investigation on Count Hardenfolk. His confessions revealed the night society and the trafficking.
• The enraged emperor, sent out a full-fledged investigation team to look into those involved. Many central nobles are in a situation where they would be removed, most supporters of Bridget. MC felt with the nobles being taken down, this could heighten the imperial power. However, MC cannot touch Chansley yet as he is directly linked to Bridget, and she had previously mentioned she's trying to "protect" Bridget. She's sure the emperor would have Chansley executed though.
• But with the evidence she have, she knew Desmond II won't be able to cover for Bridget anymore. MC got the nobles to admit that Chansley is working under Bridget and Bridget used Chansley's hand to get deeply involved in the human trafficking. There was a change in the takeover for the potion guild before, but it was still someone working under Chansley. It was obvious the change was to hide illegality since the potion guild was creating drugs. Bridget will be removed as potential successor when it all gets revealed.
• Alben asked MC if she plans to reveal the evidence now. She asked his thoughts on it and he feels they should work on the timing. She agrees with him. Under the imperial regime, she plans to keep the concept of filial piety in front of Desmond II to fairly obtain the throne, and if the emperor has no intention of disposing Bridget yet, she have to follow through.
• Instead of waiting for Desmond II to change his mind, she plans to make that opportunity to make him change his mind. She asked about Beltheor and Reimcal. Alben said it's ready. It's time to stir up Bridget's fiancé and remove Reimcal.
• Three days before the winter season, more than 100 criminals involved in the trafficking were lines up to be publicly executed. Among them was Chansley. Chansley was executed using the axe. He died on the 7th stroke. All the noble's titles, estates, and properties were redeemed and removed from the empire.
• The cold rain of November calmly drenched the empire and when winter came, it finally turned to snow. It was after a long probation when Bridget can finally step outside to a call from the emperor. She greeted him as one would to a reunion from a daughter to a father, but the emperor remained upset.
• Desmond II told Bridget Chansley have been executed. That she know of, but then he brought all all the other nobles from night society were also executed for participating in human trafficking. It was at that moment, Bridget's shoulders trembled as she opened her eyes. When she asked how, he told her Rubio and MC investigated on it. As soon as she heard MC's name, she clenched her teeth while keeping her head politely lowered.
• When the emperor asked her if she knows anything about the incident, she pretended not to. Desmond II figured she would say that, but he told her that all the evidence that connects to her are gone now since the nobles are executed. It was then, Bridget knew she had completely lost his trust. Bridget tried to protest and instead he asked her why she couldn't have done it like MC. Bridget felt insulted and humiliated.
• When she left the room, the anger that she had suppressed in front of the emperor came out. At the same time MC was approaching from the other end of the corridor. Bridget waited for her as she continued to look on arrogantly. MC pretended not to see her.
• It was Bridget who screamed out MC's name and MC slowly turned back and reminded her of her conduct inside the main palace. Bridget then spew out what she believed to be MC's reason for finding the human trafficking (to take her down). MC said it was for the people and she had nothing more to say, but Bridget had more to ask, how MC changed. MC told her she can do it too, just have to die and come back, but she'll have to die first.
• Rosie's maid come running to the emperor yelling out Rosie had awakened.
• It was winter rainy season when it rained and the imperialists would stay indoors often and the palace was dripped with water like watercolor, the place was also quiet. Raindrops can be heard knocking on the window. MC got up from her messy bed and glanced at the spot next to her full of warmth and smiled. She walked out to the balcony awakening the confused ML. It was when she reached out her hand to feel the rain, her lover draped a blanket over her exposed shoulder to tell her it's cold.
• She told him she have warming magic and looked back at ML who was half naked, then commenting he must be cold. Her hand warmed from magic entangled with ML's hand. While ML is a homunculus so he must be healthy, strong and energetic, he didn't bother mentioning the magic, and told her with a smile that she'll keep him warm.
• Knowing he's not a romanticist, she reached to touch his cheeks and playfully asked if the night wasn't enough. He told her to not pretend to be alone, as he hugged her more tightly. The cuteness of a beast did not last long, as he soon gently wrapped her head toward him to find her lips.
• When she relaxed and leaned on him, he embraced her and stepped slowly stepped back from the balcony. The glass door closed and locked. The energy inside the window turned hazy and warm moisture steamed the room.
• Their mini vacation ended and MC lazily hugged a large bed cushion burying her face, not wanting to leave the cozy spot yet. Right next to the bed, ML was putting on his uniform. MC watching him dressed felt some strange sense of wanting to take it off. She picked up a book to cover her face but couldn't stop glancing at him.
• ML who felt her gaze smiled mischievously and asked if he should strip again since he still have a bit of time. MC exclaimed in surprise embarrassed that he noticed her heart and blushed. She pretended to be calm and told him that he already finished dressing. It was then a playful light struck his eyes and he asked her if it's better with clothes on. MC was lost on his implications but he continued to say that doing it while only taking of what is needed feels more like a desire for the body than love, but if it's for her, he's willing to become a fallen beast.
• He then reminded her when she told him that when she's next to him, it's night and they're in bed, so he wondered if it's the same as that. MC grabbed his shoulder to refute him. he told her that they should try it at the next banquet. MC covered her heated face and ML laughed at her.
• She can tell he's teasing her, but he said that to some extent he meant it, he doesn't care what they do as long as she's there. She eventually forgave his mischievous side and got out of bed since it seemed the atmosphere would flow that way if she stayed there any longer.
• Sedella, then came and informed her a letter has arrived from Alben. Alben is officially away right now on "holiday" travelling to the Serenita estate, but in reality, he's in the south under a mission to investigate Beltheor. The letter as usual was filled with things pretending he's at Serenita, but it also included important information. As usual, Alben did not disappoint her. MC burned the letter with magic. It's regrettable that Desmond II could not destroy Bridget's evidence.
• MC asked Sedella about Rosie. Sedella informed her, she's still not taking visitors. It's been a week since Rosie woke up, however, MC still haven't seen her yet. Desmond II blocked everyone except the maids and healers from entering. Even Rosie's birth mother (Empress Cornelia) and the 7th prince Rondel were not able to visit.
• Still words could not be blocked from the people that could enter. There were rumors she had gone crazy pretending to be one of the two strongest people, weeping uncontrollably, screaming and lying on the floor staring blankly at the ceiling. There was even a time she tried to jump from the window claiming life is hopeless.
• MC was tempted to sneak into Rosie's room to check on her. The wait was long. She wanted to check if the imprint worked, but she's also worried for Rosie. One day, Sedella delivered news that Rosie finally started eating so it's a good sign. MC personally hoped the restrictions can be lifted so Rosie can go out for a walk. That morning when she went to get dressed, she was informed that the Rubio, Hessia, Stefania, and Rosie will be greeting the emperor with her.
• It seemed, Rosie finally gained some stability. She can finally see Rosie the day after tomorrow.
• Lately Bridget's residence have a strong scent of heavy perfume. She had been beheading roses for 3 hours and drowning them in perfume. Most of her noble support in central power had diminished. She also lost one of the main illegal political funding. Even so she still felt she still has a chance as she had maintained first in succession for more than 10 years. She still have her fiancé's family and Reimcal's family who is connected by blood (her mother's side).
• The Reimcal family have people in the judicial so it help them get away with illegal tax evasions and embezzlement. Beltheor family from the South have strong military business that could help with the battles against dragons.
• As Bridget kept thinking, she remembered what the emperor said, why couldn't she have done it like MC. The stem of the rose she was holding, snapped. Thorns pierced her palm and blood dripped down. She smiled as she believed it's because her father doesn't know anything. She firmly believed she's the only eligible person for the throne. An evil monarch is a good monarch. That's what she had learned from her royal education.
• Bridget was informed her guests had gathered. All the close nobles and imperial siblings greeted her. Viscount Fritz adviced Reimcal and Beltheor to increase their standing as they've lost a lot of supporting nobles thus they have to increase their standing from within, though Beltheor is going to marry Bridget which would prove beneficial to them.
• The three Beltheor sons were trained since they were young to become Bridget's companion. However, Bridget isn't impressed with them as her taste is a cute guy with a mischievous side, not a neat handsome man, even so she had to be somewhat polite to him.
• Empress Rumiyu had advice them to gather power from inside the palace as she needs a strong base among the siblings for their knights to help side with her on the subjugation. However since the fire, she lost the support of the 1st princess Roxandra, but also Chansley. The siblings close to Hessia and Theobalt also left them stranded. They believed Bridget will have to find some way to instead separate the rest of the siblings from siding with MC. Viscount Fritz suggested using Stefania, the sister who lost her beloved brother.
• Finally morning of the greet came and MC, who had woke up earlier than usual, arrived at the main palace first. She greeted Rubio and he complimented Alben to her. MC told him, Alben would be pleased with the praise. Hessia and Stefania then came and greeted Rubio but ignored MC. The room got tense. Stefania looked thinner than at Derek's funeral.
• The last person to enter was Rosie. Hessia and Rubio greeted her pretending to be pleased. Even though they greeted her first, she kept staring at MC. MC felt strange. Then Rosie finally greeted her siblings weakly, but her eyes kept piercing MC.
• The emperor finally arrived. He was pleased Rosie finally woke up and reminded the other siblings to take better care of her. It was then Desmond II told Rosie that MC had taken special care of her while she was sleeping. She stopped by her place every day to relieve her off her nightmares. Rosie's eyes trembled as she stared intensely at MC. MC lowered her eyes pretending not to notice.

 

Thanks for the spoilers
More spoilers please

 

tbh this novel feels so realistic. you cant just kill every person who thinks homonculis as objes. that means whole nation lol. And killing imperial family is a bad choice because there are lots of nobles whose on the emperor's side. What Mc did was the most logical thing. A slower change is always better. I see lots of novels and manhwas this days with a rushed plot. FLS are just like 'uwu slavery is wrong so lets kill slave traders and forbid slavery. problem solved'

guys it isnt like that. If your parents told u that slavery was normal u would be probaly think them as objes too. Every succeesful revolution was slow and grew up under the dark. its a proces needs patience.

so i liked this novel very much. it was realistic but with a happy ending.

 

@comeetomama Also agree that she shouldn't have to kill the imperial family. Slavery isn't necessarily solved by toppling over a country but through reforms and Eve is doing just that. I just personally have a dislike for Rosie since she was portrayed so poisonous from the beginning, so I wished she had remained horrible and there would be a reason for her to be punished with Bridget, but she didn't do anything bad in current life, so Eve could only let her go.

@Vega6701 I don't know how much more spoilers there will be, since from the point of her return to the palace, they're already vaguely summarized before. I'll just continue the spoilers until the end, since with the chapters, I fill in a bit more details.

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Chapter 221-230

spicy scene at the end

Spoiler: timeline

• The emperor told Rosie that MC was like an actual sister caring for her, and think Rosie should forgive her sister for the difficulty she had given her at Dandelion. Rosie deep in thoughts, remained silent. The emperor called her name embarrassed there was no response.
• It was MC who excused Rosie and told him that she might've been still confused. Desmond II reluctantly agreed as he pressed the temple of his head. Hessia and Rubio asked if he's okay and if he have a headache. The emperor brought up the issue about the nobles.
• With the drastic punishment on nobles, the power of the emperor increased. The nobles have concerns about that as the relationship between nobles and the emperor remains to be a constant keeping tabs on each other. The emperor having too much trouble is an issue as well. Nobles are joining together to raise an issue with this. The emperor is under pressure to have to assign titles and estates.
• It was MC who was about to voice the concern, got interrupted by Rosie who openly opinionated that there are already too many nobles. She suggested lowering the headcount. Everyone around her was surprised. Rosie wondered if her thoughts were too shallow. It was Hessia who sided with Bridget, trembled as he knows Bridget will want to restore the power she had lost from the nobles.
• Rubio then spit out a stupid suggestion when he brought up they should distribute the estate to already exiting nobles then. Rosie's eyes went cold. MC who noticed it was surprised, but then Rosie recollected her expression and MC then voiced her agreement with Rosie.
• MC suggested giving the titles and territories to the people who of the imperial family, the homunculus, since their titles will return to the emperor, because they can't reproduce, and the emperor can control them. The emperor was interested in the unconventional idea. She expanded on her suggestion to tell him there are already homunculi given commander positions for the subjugation, so they're already knights. Giving them titles doesn't violate the class system of the empire.
• The emperor approves of it. Hessia knows this is a policy that goes against Bridget. He immediately tried to object, but the emperor silenced him immediately as well, knowing he's one of Bridget's people. He advice his son to stand on his own instead of following his sister around. Hessia apologized. Desmond II clicked his tongue.
• Rubio tried to change the mood and brought up Stefania who had been quiet the whole time. Everyone looked over at her and she told her father there's something she wished to say. After the emperor's permission, she stood up from her seat and knelt on the floor, begging her father to reveal the truth about what happened to Derek. She brought up that it's suspicious ML was the one with Derek at that time.
• It was obvious the emperor wouldn't wish to hear of that topic again as it was an issue within the imperial family. MC knows Bridget had encouraged Stefania to bring it up since ML was brought up. The emperor told Stefania to drop the remarks, but when Stefania tried to protest, his glare silenced her.
• Rubio tried to change the topic once again and brought up now that Rosie's awake they can send Sylvie back to her. This choice of topic wasn't good either. MC was feeling a sense of gloom when Rosie rejected that idea and said Sylvie wanted to continue working under MC, so she would like another homunculus as her knight. She continued to tell her father that she didn't want to have to imprint Sylvie again as he was difficult to imprint. When she ask asked MC if she's fine, MC skeptically responded back. Desmond II let Rosie do as she wish.
• Rosie then requested a banquet. It's going to be the New Year's banquet in a month, so hosting a random banquet in between is odd. Rosie made an excuse that she wanted to calm down the rumors to let people know she's healthy. Also it's MC's birthday soon. MC almost stopped drinking her tea. No one else had already cared for her birthday before.
• The emperor called MC to stay behind when the meeting ended to talk more about the one handed achievements. MC saw Rosie approached Stefania and allowing Hessia to join for desserts as well. Stefania was most likely working for Bridget. Seeing them together made her tensed up. Rosie turned to look at MC. MC wondered what Rosie will be telling them.
• Four days later, Alben returned from his secret business trip at the South. MC didn't expect he would be back this early. He told her that he doesn't want to lose his place to ML so he was in a hurry. He promised to continue to work hard. MC laughed at his response. Alben also greeted ML with a comment telling ML that he must've taken good care of MC while he was away. ML responded to him, he would've done it with or without Alben since it's his job.
• Alben had been pretending to be a business owner to get intel, but it was annoying since during his trip many nobles were looking to work with him due to his popularity and trustworthiness. Count Pavlioz monopolizes the production of silver and had planned to work with Alben more.
• Alben then brought up he heard there's an unscheduled banquet and wondered what it's for. MC told him that it's her birthday banquet. He was surprised, not knowing her birthday. ML made a comment that Alben shouldn't keep his 2nd rank since he doesn't even know the birthday of who he's working for. Alben tried to make an excuse but couldn't so he tried to change the focus on someone else.
• He asked ML if he knows. ML laughed and responded it's not a question worth answering, since there was nothing he doesn't know about MC from his last life. Alben felt defeated, but he wasn't willing to lose his favor yet. MC told him that it's fine since before she had only celebrated her birthday quietly with Sedella so having a banquet now is awkward.
• MC who used to reside in a deserted part of the palace alone with Sedella would celebrate her birthday just sharing a dessert. The old dwelling they lived at before are now even neglected and cannot even be used as storage. While MC remain insensitive to her own past, ML and Alben were not at ease with it.
• Alben was determined and exclaimed out asking her what building she'll want for her banquet and he will present it to her. She smiled and told him it's impossible right now and to save it as a gift in 5 years. Alben felt she's saying his skill isn't enough decided he will do his best.
• Even so when it's close to her own birthday, MC told Alben she has a gift to present to him. She removed her smile and looked sternly as a royal and called his full name. He knelt on one knee on the floor with his head lowered. MC, then listed his achievements in discovery of the illegal coal smuggling in the warehouses and the human trafficking case. She presented him the title of the Baron of Linus.
• Alben was ecstatic and thanked MC. She told him to thank the emperor and Alben thanked the emperor for giving birth to MC. He bowed his head 3 times toward the direction of the main palace. When he looked back at ML, while crying overwhelmed with his feelings, he told ML that they don't have to fight over childish ranks anymore since he ranked up first. ML isn't sure as Alben seem to be making a judgement too early. As ML called Alben by his new title, Alben exaggeratingly felt pleased.
• Alben continued to voice that it's a shame that he's the only one who got to be rewarded for his services since ML is a homunculus it can't be helped. ML doesn't mind since it's enough to just help MC. Alben marveled at his loyalty of a 3rd place.
• MC watching the two told Alben, she gave ML a gift as well. Alben is curious what she gave. ML reminded Alben of the place Alben helped him choose before. As the winner of the tournament he was able to get a place for himself. Alben helped him choose the best house. Like any knight, ML gets a break once a week, and he would sometimes go there with MC. At that house, MC planted an olive tree in the yard for him.
• A tree is a good gift as it is something that can be shown off when people pass by the house and bring ML honor, but Alben think the olive tree is an odd choice of a gift since it symbolizes abundance and fertility. When Alben brought that up, MC flinched and coughed.
• It was common sense homunculus are infertile so giving such a tree to ML seemed more like an intention of mockery. When Alben confused, look at ML to see his response. ML thinks it's a wonderful gift and he said whenever he goes to that house, he would take care of it with all his heart. MC told him to just think of it as a child and take good care of it. ML then wondered if that's the child from MC, then the responsibility feels heavy. She responded, she's not leaving it to ML since she can also help take care of it. When she told him they can go next week, he agreed.
• The two almost forgot Alben was there watching them. When the atmosphere became serious again, MC brought up Stefania. It's frustrating that it was Bridget who caused Derek's death but she tied it to MC. Alben wondered if MC tried talking about it but MC told him she had been rejected by Stefania. Alben and MC concluded it's better to just leave it alone since trying to solve it might bring bigger issue.
• Alben said to just trust the emperor's love for her to let the issue slide, but MC corrected his misunderstanding to tell him the birthday banquet was Rosie's idea and not the emperor. Alben was surprised since even Rosie had been avoiding MC, and she was sticking to Stefania often.
• MC wondered if the imprinting failed on Rosie. Alben believed based on current situation, Rosie might be siding with Bridget. It was then a visitor came unscheduled that broke the heavy air. MC was puzzled over Kalis's visit. MC wondered if he can be back in the capital when it's almost exams at the academy for him. He returned back because his father called him back in a hurry due to the political situation at the capital.
• Kalis was allowed to attend a meeting with the council with his brother. MC smiled at that news. Usually allowing someone to attend a meeting of the councils is to train a successor. Maquis Rimitiel who was usually very conservative, finally let his second son have a chance to be successor. MC congratulated him and he promised to not disappoint her.
• MC then asked Kalis how Euclid is doing at the academy. Kalis informed her that he's studying passionately. MC felt that's suspicious given the last report card she had received, to which Kalis told her effort and performance are not necessarily proportional.
• When MC asked how he's making friends, Kalis felt embarrassed answering that. Apparently Euclid was making friends but then started to fight too much. Fight was discovered to be a concern on the gambling den within the academy started by the children of nobility. It became a huge scandal and some were being called to interrogate. One of the extended nephews of Reimcal is being investigated. MC's smile drew to a curve as she had to cup of tea over her mouth. She told Kalis to continue to give her news from the academy.
• After Kalis left, MC ordered Alben to look into the gambling funds of the nobles.
• As Kalis was heading to the main palace alone, he was stopped by Snow. He wasn't sure why the former knight of the deceased Derek would approach him. Snow told him that after the conference to go to the marble fountain at the east side of the palace. Kalis was unwilling since she won't say more, but she told him it's wouldn't be a bad suggestion for him.
• As MC's birthday is approaching, her residence started to fill up with gifts sent by families hoping to catch her eyes and young nobles who wished to court her. Gifts were sorted out. On a certain day, Sadella, Peony, Rihanna, Hugh, ML, Slyvestian, Anais, Julia, Oliver, Alben, Cayden, Bianca and Aloysia, and Rimona all gathered to personally celebrate MC's birthday. They all sat around a 3 tier cake.
• Rimona prepared a song for her as a gift.
• Julia cried out wishing she had knew MC a bit sooner and would've been able to celebrate her 16th birthday as well. MC reassured her they can continue to celebrate together in the future instead. Julia said she'll continue to do so until she's 81st and she'll be celebrating with her grandkids.
• Anais wanted to continue to watch MC's growth by her side.
• Alben who couldn't wait for his turn, cried out thanking her being being born and wanting to make her birthday an anniversary.
• The twins gave MC a portrait.
• Sylvie thanked her for allowing him to server her and promised to keep her with his heart and body until the end of his life. MC was reminded of what he told her during the masquerade. She told him she's lucky to be served by him.
• At the end of his turn, Alben jabbed ML in the ribs to stay 3rd. ML told Alben, he doesn't have to remind him. He approached MC and knelt on one knee just like Sylvie, but then he kissed the back of her hand 18 times causing her to blush. He congratulated her on the 17th birthday that he wasn't able to be with her.
• Julia and Oliver covered their mouths. Alben raised his thumb. It's Sedella's turn and they saved the number one for last. Sedella didn't say anything, more like she couldn't. MC was a princess she cherished since childhood. Everyone teared up watching them. Alben lamented to ML that's what it takes to be number one. He couldn't beat that eye contact. It took a moment for Sedella to get over her intense emotion to tell MC she will continue to serve her in the future in wherever path she does. Everyone else also echoed in agreement.
• The part lasted a long time. It's been a while since she enjoyed a party outside of a banquet for political and social reasons. MC renewed her commitment with more determination to protect moments like this and the people around her.
• Elsewhere, Rosie sat by the window sill watching the moon. It's the night before MC's birthday banquet. She wasn't able to sleep but tomorrow will be a decisive day for her. Just two weeks ago when she was standing barefoot on this same window sill, on the 2nd floor, it wasn't a height that could've killed her, but she didn't think about it back then when she first woke up.
• Instead the two lives mixed together confusing her. It was seven and half years of memories that came pouring into her. It was hard to believe that what happened in the nightmares were things she had done before. Still it was impossible to deny the reality. In fact the more she tried to separate her past and current life, the more confused she became with her personality. The instability and suicidal turmoil that lasted a week had already taken place.
• When she tried to admit to it and accept her obsession, she fought with intense feelings inside her to the point of screaming. Eventually after the process, the intense emotions worn out and she finally gain control of herself. She was able to clear up her thoughts carefully. She realized the future had changed. And the center of that change was MC.
• Rosie also realized why MC had changed. The moment when MC brought up wanting to take in a knight was unusual. She wasn't able to think of that before, but now that she has past memories, she had some insight. She realized she wasn't the only one with past memories. This insight gave her despair as she realized MC remembers everything.
• Her fingertips trembled and thinking about it makes her body felt as if its bleeding out. Even when thinking about it, her life seem dark. Even if she pretended to side with the two people with the world's best power and force it would be a more worse outcome than the past. No matter how she thought about it, dying was better, but she didn't have the courage to die and honestly, she didn't want to die. It's natural for humans to want to live so she's squeezing out all her effort to try that.
• Even so there are some issues. When she had to greet the emperor and she saw ML waiting at the corridor, her desire to live overpowered her squishy remnants of feelings in the last life, and she was able to control herself somehow. The real problem was when made eye contact with MC. All the emotions of the poisoning and obsession, she wasn't able to forget them when she saw MC. It seemed like it's difficult for people to change.
• Rosie again turned to gaze out the window. The white moonlight seemed to be purifying the night. Tomorrow is the day when the results of all her effort will bear fruit. She planned to use this to end the bad relationship with her half sister.
• The day of MC's birthday banquet came and it was as grand as Rosie's birthday banquet from last spring. MC and ML entered feeling regret. All the nobles crowded before her and MC greeted them back in response. MC kept her smiles and laughter up despite having to hear the same thing over and over again.
• After an hour, she took a break at the balcony. MC complained about having to greet everyone again when at the handing out cake but she have to do it since it's like a business. ML responded that they'll probably just try to get her attention again. She didn't know and he told her that she's harsh on the opposite sex when she's not interested. His eyes lit up pathetically as he remembered his last life and MC restlessly tried to soothe him.
• ML asked when she's going to go out, but she wanted to stay here until the second part of the banquet begins. He asked her why she doesn't rest at the pearl shell rooms. She told him she can't, since recalled Rosie's birthday, ML was dragged away. Even so, it would be suspicious if MC, the main character of the banquet, was to disappeared until dawn. ML find the situation thrilling but regrettable they can't do it. MC also told him, she also wanted to stay here to listen to the conversations of the nobles.
• When they stopped talking, they were able to hear the nobles just beyond the curtains sharing information about the value of gold. The value of gold had been rising as its becoming more scarce, since they're being used to produce military supplies in the south. They started comparing gold with silver or mithril.
• Another group joined them and they started to steer their conversation on items being bid at an auction. There was a necklace made of 181 diamonds that got broken down and auctioned into pieces as earrings and bracelets. Someone saw Alben and called him over saying he's easy to find with his red hair. Alben corrected the guy telling him he's a Baron so he should be addressed as such.
• MC and ML who heard Albe, immediately appeared from the curtain and everyone greeted MC. Alben asked why she was hiding when she's the main character. She told him she was listening to rumors from the nobles. Julia joined in to congratulate MC and told her she sent another birthday gift to her.
• The four lowered their voices to continue their conversation. Julia glanced at Bridget and told them that she's with her fiancé. The Marquis of Baltheor was at the center of the banquet hall showing off his power. He's discussing with the other noble about the properties of pure silver working with mana, they're the best compare to other three metals, aside from black gold. They're trying to work on something to have it perform as good as black gold.
• Julia overhearing them, looked disapprovingly. The nobles are exchanging and managing resources together. Julia wonder if MC is fine with that. They defeated Chansley, but Bridget could still regain power through Beltheor. But MC isn't worried. Alben then drew their attention to another place at the banquet hall where Marquis Reimcal is with his younger sister (4th empress).
• Over there, Reimcal was being praised for his huge donations to the relief cause of the fire. Someone stood out next to him and MC asked Alben who that person is. Alben informed her that's Baron Ekum. Alben then whispered to MC that there's a huge business in the East under suspicion, believed to be extorting money under "administrative expenses". MC told Alben to investigate more on the Baron. He promised her there won't be another mistake like the fire.
• It was then MC realized Alben had been blaming himself for not being able to stop Chansley. She's reminded of her former self when she was also blaming herself for it. She told him to put the blame on the actual criminal and the fault is not his. Alben was moved from her words and she told him that it reminds her of the past and laughed lightly at his reaction.
• The actual banquet is finally starting and MC told them she'll see them later before leaving. It was imperial rule for the protagonist of the birthday banquet to serve the nobles one by one mousse cake. The mousse cakes are in wine glasses stacked on a table. She repeated the process of receiving congratulations for her birthday and handing out cake.
• When she handed out cake to Kalis, she noticed he was in a disgusted mood and wonder if he did poorly on his exams. He told her, his test results were very good. He admit to her he had been feeling under pressure since that day when he visited her. MC felt guilty for joking, thinking he must be troubled from his personal affairs fighting for successor with Felios.
• After that, Stefania showed up. She had been refusing to see MC, but now she's standing before MC. She reminded MC what MC had told her and Derek before, to expose something, she doesn't need someone to direct her. To MC, that was a bad memory. MC kept looking at Stefania wondering what she's trying to do.
• MC told Stefania that she has a look as if she had nothing to lose and it's too late to stop her already. When she handed the cake to Stefania, she whispered to her that she might regret it. Stefania stepped back and ML standing behind MC felt Rosie might've prepared a present for her. MC thinks she will do something stupid.
• The next people in line is Bridget and Antonio. It was MC who talked first, telling Bridget she was surprised to see her looking ecstatic. Bridget responded that since it's MC's birthday, MC looks like she is having the best time of her life. MC laughed politely, but she's not sure since she haven't reached the top yet and Bridget haven't reached the bottom yet. Bridget knows what MC was saying and they continued to have an all out confrontation with fake smiles toward each other.
• MC knows Bridget had gathered all the southern nobles and trying to provoke Stefania. Bridget pretended not to know anything. When MC grew tired of mixing useless words, she finally handed the cake to Bridget. Bridget turned around and walked away arrogantly. Antonio followed behind her while remaining polite to MC as if he's apologizing.
• MC still haven't seen Rosie yet, the person who made this banquet happen. It didn't take her long to search as she saw Rosie going out into the hall herself. MC told ML to hold her seat for a while and went straight for where Rosie disappeared to.
• The path led to a small camellia garden, where even in deep winter, it bloomed beautifully (they actually do bloom in winter). MC lost sight following Rosie, but when she saw Amber hovering around, Rosie's voice asked who she's looking for that way. MC turned around seeing Rosie face to face after a long time.
• Rosie asked why the main person is at a place like here. MC couldn't determine if Rosie is an enemy or ally. Silence ensued. Rosie was the first to speak, congratulating her on her birthday. Rosie smiled after MC thanked her, and said she's pleased to finally be able to talk to MC again. MC said it was Rosie who avoided her. Rosie responded there was something she had to do such as preparing for her present.
• The words were meaningful but vague. MC thought Rosie would enact revenge since she had used Rosie's 16th birthday as a re-entry to her own debut. Rosie then squeezed MC's arm and told her that the protagonist of the banquet have been out too long. From the brazen physical touch, MC reacted in surprise. She told Rosie to stop being ambiguous and pulled Rosie's hand from her arm. At that moment, Rosie's eyes look hurt. She recollected her expression and admit she doesn't know what to do so she must've acted clumsily.
• MC believed they should have a longer talk but they couldn't as a loud voice coming from the banquet informed of the emperor's surprise visit. MC had to return back to the banquet hall. She excused herself to Rosie, but Rosie instead suggested they go together. Rosie grabbed her hand and escorted MC back.
• At the banquet hall, they stopped in front of the emperor and greeted him. Rosie told him they went to get some air outside when he told them he was searching for them. When he saw them holding hands, he felt pleased his daughters were close.
• The emperor came to present MC a gift. A gorgeous chest was dragged out by two personnel. Everyone murmured curiously. Usually the gifts the emperor gifted couldn't be seen such as the gardens given to Rosie or the title and territory given to MC before. This time it was something physical.
• MC approached the chest. The attendants opened it and when she exclaimed in surprise, everyone got more curious as MC is usually calm. She took out the gift to show everyone it was a wooden staff with magical stones embedded on it. In addition, it could be detached to use as a wooden wand. She realized the material was made from the world tree; it was the branch she had given to him before.
• MC looked at the emperor with sparkling eyes. He told her that the branch was of no use to him so he thought it would be better to return it to her, but decided to process it to have it made into a staff. The value of the staff was astronomical. Even Bridget was trembling in jealousy and greed at the corner of the banquet hall. MC bowed gratefully to the emperor.
• As the emperor was about to leave, the chairman of the council of nobles came in a hurry. Marquis Rimitielo immediately captured what he was holding and handed it to the emperor. It was a newspaper. The newspaper was crumbled in the hands of the emperor when he was reading it. MC turned her head to see Bridget smiling. It must be Stefania's claim that MC murdered Derek.
• She lowered her eyes to the floor. The emperor yelled out for Stefania. All the nobles fell into fright. Stefania calmly walked to her father and knelt before him. As he tried to rebuked her, Bridget then ran to Stefania's side and looked up at the emperor to try to defend Stefania, but the anger of the emperor then turned to Bridget.
• Bridget got confused, as did MC. The situation was strange. It was then, Rosie grabbed MC's finger and whispered to her that it's fine and it'll end well. MC couldn't understand her actions but had no time to think more into it. The emperor asked if MC did this, encouraging Stefania to do this.
• The newspaper was thrown at the floor by MC's feet. Rosie picked it up and handed it to MC. When MC read it, she realized it was targeting Bridget. Antonio took the paper and showed Bridget. Bridget glared at Stefania. But she have to try to fix the situation first. She tried to blame MC for it, but Rosie came and knelt admitting it was her fault.
• Rosie claimed she was talking with her personal knight. When she brought up her new knight, Snow came forward to apologize for saying the truth. Rosie told the emperor it was her fault since she ordered Snow to answer her question. She shed tears as Stefania said she did it herself, when Rosie tried to stopped her but she wanted to enact revenge for Derek's death. It was Bridget who was stuck in a rage at the both of them.
• Desmond II faced MC again and asked if she really didn't have a hand in this. An aide informed him that there was no sign of contact between MC and the two sisters; in fact when she tried to approach them, they rejected her. The emperor felt guilty once MC's innocence was revealed.
• As with the case of authoritative figures, the emperor tried to resolve his embarrassment in targeting other's faults. His eyes went to place blame on Bridget. Bridget and Stefania were sent back to their room. As for MC, he'll speak with her separately in another time. He then, turned to leave.
• Once the emperor was gone, Stefania got up and walked passed MC. MC tried to talk to her but she doesn't want to. All she said was thank you as Rosie would've said it. The banquet wasn't over yet so the nobles tried to raise the mood. MC was stuck staring blankly. ML, Alben and Julia went to her to question if she's fine. It wasn't part of their plan but Rosie took action.
• Shortly after, from the center of the banquet hall, Kalis can be seen kneeling on one knee before Rosie peoposing to her. It became a new scandal as the White Rose of the empire and the second son of Marquis Rimitielio became engaged. Alben wondered if Rosie became loyal to her. When MC met Rosie's gaze, while Rosie was receiving the kiss from her hand, only then MC realized she was never being ambiguous.
• The banquet ended at midnight. MC returned back to her residence with ML. Her staff greeted her. There was Rosie waiting for her at the parlor. MC told them all to leave.
• When the two sisters would alone, MC told Rosie she got smarter after remembering her past life. Rosie told her it's the same with MC. She then smiled and asked MC if she liked her gift. MC admit it's a very good birthday present. Rosie said there's another gift. No one knows yet that Kalis is one of MC's people, so Rosie's news on the engagement is to show MC she will side with MC as the White Rose of the empire.
• When MC asked her for the reason she's doing this, Rosie told her it's because MC is the most influential of all the siblings and she even have 'that homunculus'. Also she knows from last life, Bridget ruined the country so it's natural for her to want to support MC.
• MC reminded Rosie, that she killed her at the last life so there's no law that says she won't do it again. Rosie's body froze hearing it, but her eyes and lips trembled. She started to have a rough time breathing as her forehead started to sweat. MC wondered if she's sick suddenly. Rosie shook her hand saying she's not. MC then realized the imprint worked.
• She felt embarrassed and decided she have to calm Rosie first. She grabbed her hand and placed a calming spell on her. One Rosie recovered, she tried to defend herself, saying she was blinded by that homunculus, but this life will be different. When asked how could MC believe that, Rosie asked MC if she thinks she will kill her. MC wasn't able to answer.
• Rosie affirmed she won't She told MC that it's been a long time since her feelings for that homunculus had disappeared, and she honestly wished he would leave MC's side but she doesn't intend to do anything to contradict MC's goals. When MC still wouldn't answer, Rosie commented how MC could pretend to not trust her when MC knows Rosie can't kill her since she imprinted her.
• She told her she heard the voice. She wasn't able to know when other people are talking to her, but she knows when MC was by her side. MC still doesn't trust Rosie and pushed her, even asking what if she were to remove the imprint. Rosie don't want it to be removed. Apparently geass can also caused the obsession. The best solution is still to kill Rosie but this was the next best solution.
• Rosie felt she only had one last way to appeal to MC, so she knelt on the floor and took MC's hand to kiss the back of her hand and promised she will continue to prove her worth. She rubbed her cheek against MC's hand. MC said she will have to pay back her worth for what she committed in the last life. Rosie froze thinking about all the irreversible deeds she had done and think there probably isn't a price to pay all that back.
• There was nothing Rosie can give MC. Rosie think she will probably die. It was then MC called her name and told her to apologize. Rosie unknowingly raised her head to look at MC and started to cry. She asked how a word of apology can offset her killing MC, but she continued to pour out endless apologies and confessions.
• She got that homunculus because she thought he was the perfect accessory, but he doesn't even look at her, and MC doesn't even know that since she's always so indifferent. She know it's an excuse but it's true she's crazy and what she did was stupid and wrong, so she kept apologizing. Rosie looked at MC hoping for a response. MC then raised her hand to stroke her head and thanked her for telling her that since that was what she wanted to hear.
• When Rosie asked if she trusted her now, MC told her she's imprinted so it'll be difficult for Rosie to lie to her. MC told her that she take care of her people, but then also warned her to never betray her. Rosie told MC, if she felt like Rosie will betray her, she can poison her with belladonna. She then rubbed her cheek against MC's hand again and thanked MC, proming she will do well in the future.
• After everything was resolved, MC coughed in embarrassment and asked Rosie how long she plan to be like this and told her to get up, but Rosie said the location is good so she want to stay like this a bit longer. MC felt like she's a pet, rather than a younger sister.
• After Rosie had left, MC finally was able to relax. ML who had already prepared her bath and was in his uniform again was waiting for her. He was worried leaving MC alone with Rosie. She told him it worked out well. Still he was worried, since he thinks she's suppressing her emotions.
• MC told her there were two reasons why she dislikes Rosie. ML wondered what other grudge she may have other than Rosie killing her. MC admitted that in a sense, Rosie is like a love rival since it would be a lie if she was to not be jealous of the relationship Rosie had with ML before. She, like ML, also don't know how to share love, so she can't help but be jealous.
• But then MC isn't someone who is malicious, so she won't cling to the past when they can move forward. Also there are lots of things to do and an emperor needs to be healthy physically and mentally. As she continued to talked, ML's eyes looking at her were in a trance. He thought he was the one who looks at her so he got emotional remembering the hundreds of times he was rejected by her.
• At that moment he asked why she didn't accept him then and she apologized saying she must've been blind, not able to recognize his charm. He told her he have to increase it a lot this life. She knows, but just as she was speaking, he sat her by the bedside and start to take off her shoes and stockings, acting as a servant.
• She then felt his lips on her skin. He lowered his eyes and told her it's natural she would give Rosie a chance since she gave him a chance, and confessed he think he fell for her because she's like that, even though he wished she would treat him more special. MC told him he's the most special and hugged him around his neck. The warmth and scent of her body was enough to make him react, but he suppressed it and lifted his head out of her arms.
• He told her he have a present for her since it's her birthday. A small packaged box was presented to her. When she opened it, a pair of bracelets decorated with moonstones and pink opals were seen. He asked for her wrist and MC jokingly asked him if he's trying to arrest her. He asked if that's her fetish and took note of it, then placed them on her wrist. When he explain the use of the bracelets to her, light scattered like fireflies in all direction forming lines such as planes. He told her it'll make it easier when she use Silver Arachne. She thanked him.
• When she asked him how he got them, he told her he commissioned the sage of the spruce forest to make them for him, but he paid for the cost with materials. ML like the homunculus knights were given personal assets in items but cannot do economic activities thus the requested fee was sufficient enough. He was glad he was able to give MC a gift.
• He told her he was glad she liked it. She responded, of course since her love gave it to her. When he repeated her words for 'my love', she nodded and smiled brightly at him. His heart beat rapidly at her confession and smile. In fact, he had felt slightly heated from her hug a while ago.
• He then called her name and she wondered what he's calling her for. He laughed and reminded her what he had wanted to do the next banquet. ML was no longer hiding his desires. With one hand, he lifted up her skirt and kissed her shin. The warmth can be felt on her bare thighs. Her body slightly trembled as he brought his face closer to her and lips began to interlock, and tongues tangled.
• He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her towards him to embrace her, carrying her. She thought he would take her to the bath together, but instead he brought her to the table and leaned her against the table with her hands on her back. She was surprised and he laughed and provocatively told her that he had promised her, he'll do it well. His hand went up her skirt again from her back, past the smooth thighs and squeezed at the gap between the upper body and the table.
• His touch caused her head to bend back revealing an elegant neckline. From the mirror nearby, she can see his face. MC begged him to do it and he told her if that's what she wants... Although he pretended to be unable to fall for her appeal, his voice was already filled with lust.
• The sound of his leather belt rubbing against the fabric and the small sound of the of iron on the bottom rang in her ears. Her skirt was completely furled up to her waist and the wet skin that came into contact with the air felt cold. ML's hot hand grabbed her back and his desire had already rose as he buried himself deep into her. MC's whole body trembled at the feeling of being tightly filled.
• There was no way to calm down as they shook. Her upper body gradually got pushed up by the violent movement. As he focused on it, he wrapped her head with his hand to prevent MC from hurting herself against the mirror in front of her. ML kept calling her name and her nerves and senses became engulfed. The hand that was wrapped on her head slid down her eyelids as if she was blindfolded by him. Whenever she cried out prettily and sweetly, her breath fog up the mirror in front of her. She kept calling his name as he kept encouraging her to continue. MC pled to him she wanted to see him. She wanted to face him.

(Basically, he's doing her from behind her with her hands behind her back [in reference to being arrested when she joked about the bracelet] and one of his hand over her eyes [like being blindfolded].)

The spicy scene does continue in next chapter.

 

Alright I’m new to this novel but I’m excited to read all the spoilers! Thanks for those that can provide them.

 

Thank you. You are an angel. When writing this spoiler for everyone to read

 

thanks for the spoilers

I feel like this chapter just goes to show how fake Rosie’s change in mentality really was. I really don’t like how both her and the emperor got their happy endings.
I immediately hated the emperor after he made the ML kiss his shoe in the beginning of the story.

Also is Mc just saying this to comfort him because she knows how jealous/easily depressed he gets, or is ML actually #1 now?

 

They are a couple so it's natural he is the most special to her. As for the ranking, it's separate from her feelings. If you haven't noticed already, Sedella being number 1 and Alben being number 2, those are rankings for their usefulness. It's close to their reliability in getting the job done, not purely because they're her favorite people. I think some people confused it with that. It might also have to do with the timing when they started to become loyal to Eve's cause.

Michael may have became her knight earlier than her getting Alben to work for her, but he wasn't that useful to her in the beginning. If you noticed the first time when the ranking was brought up, it was at the dispatch at the mines. Michael at that time hadn't really done much to help her with anything drastic to her plans. He was useful to her mentally since he can comfort her, but he wasn't really doing much with the planning.

 

For Rose, it's actually very logical for her to choose to support Eve because why would she continue to go on a path that's bound for death/failure? That's stupid. I initially didn't mind her 'character development' much just because it was one less obstacle/annoyance out of the ML and FL's way, but it definitely sucks that she didn't get the punishment that she deserved for all the shit she did. She literally got off scot free (the whole suffering with Ambroxa will never count!). Then later on she begins to like Eve and has the audacity to give ML attitude bc she hates him, but she has no right since she killed Eve and ML is the one who saved her. Like bi*ch what're you smoking!? cut that shit out. For Eve, she differentiated the past life and the current life so since Rose was willing to 'change', she of course gave her a second chance. However, I do believe that if Rose continued to being an enemy then she would have definitely been dealt with. Especially ML, one wrong move from her and she's a goner. Too bad this doesn't happen :/ lol can't relate to Eve, letting go of a bi*ch who killed me? hell no! Yes, it's really a shame Rose didn't remain horrible.

At first I didn't really care if the Royal family all die and burn in hell bc fuk them, but the way Eve went about dealing with everything was definitely more realistic than 'down with slavery and everyone who supports it=solution', which is almost everyone in the Empire except for a few and that won't leave much to work with. The whole situation with the homunculus is something that takes time to reform and isn't solved instantly or in a short amount of time. Also with Eve's character, she preferred a more peaceful way to resolve problems.

 

ok I've read everything and i have one question so does rosie's personal knight become Mc personal knight too and then what happens
i don't know why but i really like him

 

No, did he moved on from MC and found another love or did he still have had some residual feelings for her

Umm...felt what? Can someone explain.

 

I am feeling too many people kept asking about Sylvie so I will just say this directly, there is no confirmed ending for Sylvie. He's not that important in the whole scheme for the author to care to give him an actual ending. Yes, a lot of readers love him, but he wasn't even made as a sub male lead, and his existence barely existed for the most part. Do I know if he found another love? Don't know. Does he have residual feelings for MC? Not sure. He just ended up wandering around at the end since he isn't good at management work and worked better as a knight so perhaps he ended up being Rosie's knight again. Based on the latest side story with him, it's not confirmed. Only confirmation is that he agreed to escort her to that ball. He probably got his imprint removed already since he was able to travel around. Personal knights cannot stay at long distance away from their imprinter.

@cookie_monster007 It was explained. "Elijah asked Sylvie if he also felt it. They can all agree they felt it. Opel also has the king of homunculus ability. It seemed to have pass down to ML's child and will continue to do so in the future." They were able to feel that king of homunculus ability that ML had from his child.

***​

I made some edits and additional info to the past spoiler links

Chapter 231-240

Spoiler: timeline

• ML endured the desire to run wild. He pulled her into his arms and buried deep into her once again. The violent sensation aroused his greed. There was no way to go to the bed so he dragged her to the floor with him.
• MC sat on his body and he turned her around to face him. With his back leaned on the wall, he reached out to touch her cheek. ML couldn't lay her down on the floor so instead he's the one to lay on the floor. The hem of her dress covered their bottom. At first glance, it'll seem as though MC had climbed on him dressed finely, but they continued their actions subtly concealing their lust.
• MC took over and moved. As a result the skirt and his uniform crumbled together. They both cried out each other's name as ML looked up at her. Every time she hears his low, dull groan, it made her unable to control her excitement. She wanted to swallow him from head to toe. It was the same with ML.
• He raised his arm and grabbed her waist to take control, and poured out his desires violently. The thrusting on her seemed to dig and crush her. The shaking became intense as they yell out their names. MC's face crumbled tearing up and ML's face crumbled as if enduring.
• At some point the rough thrusting stopped and ML's brows loosened up again. MC laid her face on his chest as she let out a breath. He hugged her tightly. She can feel his hot breath touching the nape of her neck. She could barely move her head to look at his eyes.
• ML told her, he thinks she's more excited than usual. MC couldn't deny it so he tried suggesting the next restraint, there's also Silver Arachne (referencing to when she bound Sylvie). MC imagining it made her blush and twitch. ML laughed when he felt her twitch, She couldn't release from her shame so he touched her cheek and asked her if she's tired. Her eyes shone as if saying he's asking a useless question and then told him there's no way. As if expecting that answer, ML smiled and kissed her.
• But it's time to stop playing as beasts who is just urgent for sex, and now it's time to covet each other's whole body. Tongues entangled, clothes were peeled off. There's a long way before the excitement can subside. With the constant moaning and groaning throughout the night, the night shifted deeper.
• New Year finally approached the empire. There's two months left until the subjugation to defeat Ambroxa. The south was busy with the military supplies.
• Currently Count Pavlioz is holding a meeting to discuss silver production. Beltheor didn't attend. Gold had already risen in value due to its scarcity. Silver on the other hand cannot be substituted as only Pavlioz produce silver. Count Gravicon is in charge of iron and Count HIllman in charge of black gold. Pavlioz wants to overturn the tradition of trading with only gold coins and also start trading in silver.
• Back at home Pavlioz discussed with his wife, thanking her for recommending the businessman (Alben) to him. Alben had suggested buying gold early before the prices increased in value. They're thinking of taking over the south with Beltheor putting all his power into advancing central power.
• At that time the "businessman", Alben, was rushing back to the capital to return back to his owner's arms. (I believe these were events that happened before when he went on his secret mission for MC at the south.)
• (prepping for war spoiler- conference on military tactics and Marquis Beltheor's talk with Antonio)
• It was winter when the leaves had been stripped from the trees, but at MC's residence, her greenhouse remained famous for its beautiful scenery. It was there where she was hosting a small tea party with her people.
• The bathhouse business continue to be more prosperous. Julia also applied nails to her cosmetics business. This in turn also increased their profits on the insulating magic stones since people want to show off their nails, they began to carry around the magic stones instead of wearing gloves.
• Rihanna and Peony were on standby filling teacups while ML and Sylvie sat nearby on escort duty.
• The conversation turned to the knights. The knights have to be trained to stand in lines for the military parade. ML had replied since it's his "first time", he's receiving lots of help from Sylvie. Sylvie and MC covered their expression. Clearly ML didn't need help and he was someone who had past memories of leading a military lineup. Julia and Anais who didn't know, nodded their heads.
• (lenient day enjoying tea spoiler- Rosie's visit)
• It was obvious when Antonio showed up, he was an uninvited guest. Julia even whispered to Anais saying it was obvious he knew MC would be here, but she wondered why the guards let him in. Anais whispered back it's probably difficult to stop the three sons under that prestige (Marquis Beltheor).
• When MC looked at him expressionless as asked what he is here for, he apologized for disturbing them when he stopped by to get some flowers.
• (Antonio spoiler)
• Recently ML had been very upset. Of course the main reason being Antonio who is testing his patience. He had already been annoyed when Antonio persistently tried to appeal to MC. But then when he suggested a political marriage and even brought up the power of the Beltheor family, and those pale purple eyes looking at MC as if possessed when they left, ML's anger started to rose.
• (ML's secret found out by Alben spoiler)
• (bringing Antonio down spoiler)

 

Yo I know right?! Like imagine, your second favorite person is someone who HAS killed your own mother by poisoning her and HAD s*x with your own father for 5 frickin years(and he remembers all those disgusting nights) in the past life..... Can't relate

It's a wonder the FL is with him, I would NEVER be fine with my husband having s*x with my sister in the past for 5 years who KILLED me and then having a DAUGHTER who adores that said bitchy sister.....
Omg now that I've done it with multiple POVs, this family is really having a fucked up ending by leaving rose to have a happy ending. I'm getting more and more disgusted, like barf barf ew. Sorry, can't relate
(Ps. Honestly, I would be depressed if I was the FL, poor me lol, the author really messed it up with having the ML already doing bed things with the FL's sister and then giving her a happy ending)