When You Turned Your Back On Me, We Became Strangers [EN]: Chapter 109

Side Story 8

Reilly was captivated by the kingdom’s culture, so different from the Empire’s. Splendor was a given, and she was encountering many customs for the first time.

“It’s so fascinating.”

“You saw it when we visited the kingdom before, didn’t you? Ah… you weren’t quite yourself back then.”

Kaver quickly changed the subject, remembering Reilly’s compromised state of mind during their previous visit. This place was characterized by soft, desert-like sand.

Water appeared scarce, but thanks to the inhabitants’ ingenuity, water storage technology was highly advanced. This was a key reason Reilly had chosen this location.

“Where do you get all this information?”

Kaver was amazed that Reilly possessed such detailed knowledge of the area without him telling her.

She must have gleaned the information from private conversations with Haban, or perhaps her insatiable curiosity led her to devour every book in the Imperial Palace.

“Kaver, look at this!”

Reilly pointed upward at an unusual tree. It was remarkably tall, with lush green leaves cascading down, providing ample shade.

She gazed around with childlike wonder, marveling at her surroundings. Kaver, in turn, was fascinated by her adorable demeanor.

“The royal family has given us a room with a great view. Why don’t we go inside first?”

“Oh, right! They must be waiting for us.”

Only then did Reilly reluctantly turn away, a hint of regret in her eyes. Ren, however, anticipated a challenging time ahead. He envisioned being dragged around, possibly even coerced into sampling unfamiliar foods.

He couldn’t allow Reilly to eat indiscriminately without ensuring the food’s safety.

“Oh, dear. The future looks bleak.”

“Don’t worry. I won’t cause any trouble.”

Ren clicked his tongue at Reilly’s words. Despite her assurance, her eyes sparkled with anticipation. He was relieved that the baby in Reilly’s belly seemed to be developing healthily.

“Alright, do whatever you want.”

Ren conceded, as if resigned to his fate. Reilly’s face lit up, and she nodded enthusiastically.

“Thank you.”

Kaver exchanged a nod with Ren, reassuring him. He felt confident, knowing Reilly cherished the child she carried more than anything. A separate escort wasn’t necessary, but caution was warranted given her pregnancy.

He worried about Reilly, but knew she treasured the child who had returned to her above all else.

“I’ve already sent a letter to Haban in advance.”

“What? Already?”

“When we get back, we need to start preparing immediately. We need to buy things that are good for her health, and decorate the baby’s room.”

Kaver spoke as if the baby had already arrived. Having previously purchased items for Reilly, he was quite experienced in these matters.

“How do you know so much?”

She asked Kaver, who shouldn’t have such knowledge. This should be his first time, so why did he seem so familiar with it?

He fell silent at Reilly’s question.

‘There’s no point in telling her this.’

Sometimes ignorance was bliss. He feigned ignorance, averted his gaze, and stared out the window.

“The scenery over there is nice.”

Reilly’s eyes narrowed at Kaver’s evasive words. He was clearly hiding something and didn’t want to reveal it.

“Yes, it must be beautiful when the sun sets.”

In the end, she pretended not to notice. Ren, who had remained silent between the two, finally sighed and looked away.

He was also an accomplice, so he kept his mouth shut.

* * *

“Thank you for your prompt response to our letter.”

Kaver greeted the King of Derwa. The kingdom was relatively unknown, so small that it was rarely marked on maps.

“We are honored by your visit.”

The King of Derwa welcomed Kaver and Reilly. He had only heard tales of the Sword of the Empire, but this was his first time seeing her in person.

She was indeed a beautiful woman. Despite hearing reports of her dignity, he was still amazed by her bearing befitting an Empress. He was also impressed by her understanding of his country and the courteous letter she had sent.

“I hope you have everything you need during your stay.”

“We are grateful for your warm welcome. The Empress is a little tired, so would it be alright if she rested in her room?”

Kaver requested the King’s understanding.

It was too early to announce her pregnancy. He was unsure of their feelings toward the Empire and had to be cautious of potential threats.

If they discovered Reilly was pregnant, unforeseen circumstances might arise.

“Of course. You must be tired from the long journey, so please rest for a while, and I will call you when dinner is ready. The palace also boasts a well-maintained garden, so you two can take a walk.”

At the King’s suggestion, Kaver glanced at Ren, who had already surveyed the area and nodded. Fortunately, there appeared to be no immediate threats.

“Then shall we unpack and go to the garden?”

Reilly asked Kaver, seizing the opportunity.

He couldn’t refuse her eager expression. He had intended for her to rest, but she seemed eager to explore the garden.

“I will instruct the maids to prepare some fine tea. The Queen will also be delighted.”

The King was pleased and promptly summoned a maid.

* * *

“I can only admire it.”

In the meticulously maintained garden, Reilly marveled at the unfamiliar plants, beautifully arranged. She took in the sights and scents of the garden.

It felt slightly humid, but she understood it was a deliberate effort to trap heat, creating a greenhouse-like environment to promote plant growth.

“These plants probably wouldn’t thrive if I took them with me, right?”

Reilly crouched down, admiring a cactus adorned with delicate flowers.

Kaver paused, then decided to inquire about water-related matters later, during a discussion about their water technology.

“First, why don’t we sit down?”

He was restless, concerned that Reilly might be overexerting herself. Despite the long journey, she seemed tireless.

“Ren said I’m fine.”

“Still, I’m worried.”

At Kaver’s insistence, Reilly finally settled at a well-appointed table.

“Drink it quickly.”

“Even so, I don’t want to drink it because you’re being so obvious.”

Ren frowned at the offered teacup.

He was naturally annoyed by Kaver’s presumptuousness. However, it was his duty to taste it, ensuring Reilly’s safety.

The aroma and appearance were unremarkable.

Fortunately, a sip revealed no poison. This was expected, but it allowed them to enjoy the tea with peace of mind.

“You’re the only one who treats the Sword of the Empire like this.”

“Isn’t this the least I can do for my master’s health?”

Kaver chuckled softly, savoring the tea’s aroma. Ren felt an urge to strike Kaver on the head, but refrained, knowing Reilly would scold him.

“Ren, sit down and drink quickly.”

“You’re the only one who cares about me.”

Ren playfully snuggled against Reilly. Kaver, witnessing this, drew his sword and blocked them.

“Why don’t you back off?”

“This is too much. I even tasted it, but the treatment is insignificant.”

“That’s a natural duty.”

Kaver warned Ren, his Adam’s apple bobbing. Ren reluctantly moved away from Reilly and picked up the teacup.

“You can’t even win, but you only draw your sword.”

“Do you want to fight?”

“Why don’t you beat Reilly and then talk?”

Ren snorted and sneered at Kaver. Reilly, observing their bickering, focused on the tea. Since they were spiritual twins who would reconcile regardless of their squabbles, intervention would only exhaust her.

The tea’s subtle aroma was captivating. The temperature was perfect, and the taste was exquisite.

“This tea is delicious.”

As expected, Kaver’s eyes lit up at her words. He gradually relaxed his grip on the sword, sheathed it, bypassed Ren, and approached the maid.

He immediately began whispering to the maid who had prepared the tea. Ren shook his head, understanding the situation perfectly.

‘He’s the kind of guy who would buy the country and give it to her if Reilly said it was good.’

He must have ordered a large quantity of tea. He was generous. If Reilly found out, she might comment on it again.

‘I can’t miss that good sight.’

Ren kept the information to himself, eager to witness Kaver’s dejected expression when scolded by Reilly.

He chuckled inwardly, trying to conceal his amusement.

There was nothing more enjoyable than teasing Kaver when Reilly reprimanded him.

“Reilly, do you like this place?”

“Yes, I like it so much. I think it was a good idea to come.”

“Don’t you need to see a doctor?”

“It won’t be too late to see him when we get back.”

She didn’t intend to stay long, planning to return to the palace as soon as matters were resolved. She gently stroked her belly, imagining the day of their return.

Just thinking about Leta’s reaction made her smile. This time, they would share genuine, joyful smiles.

“Let’s go to the village in the evening.”

“Okay, I’ll let them know. I’m looking forward to the banquet.”

He hoped the negotiations would proceed smoothly, but Kaver felt a sense of unease. He didn’t want Reilly to overexert herself, so it would be best to conclude matters quickly and return.

‘I should expedite the negotiations.’

He would only feel at ease once Reilly was resting comfortably at home. Kaver sipped his tea, lost in thought.