As Roen declined to accept the handkerchief that was being offered to him, he glared at Rajaden. If looks could kill, well.

I would never have expected that youd cover for the notorious villainess of the rumors.

What exactly is it that you want to say, Rajaden.

So youre finally dropping the formalities now?

As Roen was finally talking to Rajaden casually, the latter smiled. And seeing that unreadable smile, Roen scowled.

Rajaden said, When I mentioned bringing in a consort earlier, remember that?

I dont really want to hear the end of that, so dont bother.

That younger sister of yours. Give her to me.

Are you insane?

Causing the noble and graceful young lord to utter such a curse, the crown prince looked at him with satisfaction.

Roen smiled as well. It was the same smile that Rajaden had said was frightening.

Such an expression would really draw out a nightmare, you know.

Then why dont you kindly be more proper so that I dont make this expression?

Well, Im not joking either. How come youre not asking me for my reason? About why Im saying this.

Even if I come to know the reason, its something that absolutely cannot happen. With all due respect, Your Highness, did you hit your head? After all these many years, the country is at the onset of doom.

Let me tell youin this entire world, there are only two people who can treat me this badly. One of them is you.

What an honor.

Roen emptied his teacup all at once. Ive finished my tea, so goodbye.

He was about to get up while saying that, but Rajaden made him stay, holding the taunt of an imperial order above the young dukes head.

From the very beginning, the crown princes objective was Violet. So, from the very beginning, this meeting was unjust.

Roen glowered at his friend, whose demeanor practically screamed cunning smugness.

With an arrogant look on his face, Rajaden beamed brightly.

Theres a widespread rumor going around that the peerless Roen E. Everett had fallen at the feet of his younger sister. The esteemed daughter of House Everett had turned down all invitations from each and every household that sent them, while the Young Duke is putting up with such behavior.

If Roen were to just up and leave right now, he wondered what kind of imperial order Rajaden would make. Would it be along the lines of summary execution?

Knowing what kind of thoughts were going on in Roens head, Rajaden just smiled and continued speaking.

I also know of Ducal Lady Aileen. It hasnt been long since her debut, and I hear that Sir Mikhail dotes on her especially.

The golden eyes resembling that of a beast glinted sharply.

But the ducal lady whos refusing all invitations is Ducal Lady Violet, who happens to be the rumored wicked woman of House Everett. And by the way, isnt it that you care more about your cousin, Ducal Lady Aileen? I remember those times in the academy when you showed her off quite a bit.

Interesting, isnt it? Back then, just a mere mention of the silver-haired lady made your expression distort so much that it looked like a bone got stuck in your throat. But now, youve completely fallen at her feet.

Since you planted a spy, it truly seems like you know everything. But, Your Highness. I cant quite understand how this and the matter of the crown princess could possibly be connected.

I wish to take Violet S. Everett as my consort, plain and simple.

Is this with politics in mind?

Something like that. But Im also personally interested in her.

This was the problem when ones close friend was, at the end of the day, ones superior.

Regardless of what hed say here, this was something concerning Violet, and she would have the final say. But even still, he contemplated whether hed be able to go against his superiors will.

But really. Its impossible.

No.

Its not all bad for you either.

Rejected.

Is it because I havent sent an official proposal yet? If thats the case

Absolutely not.

Why are you so adamant about refusing me?

When Roen showed no signs of budging, Rajadens expression finally cracked. With that smile gone, the crown prince scoffed at Roen discontentedly.

In response, Roen merely stared back into that gaze, not touching any of the refreshments on the table. He remained completely calm.

Why did you call me here?

Have you not heard anything Ive said until now?

If you want to propose to Violet, direct your proposal to her and ask for her opinion first. This isnt something that concerns me.

Its imperative to respect her opinion first and foremost.

Though Roen continued to speak calmly, his expression had closed up like a resolute iron wall.

Suddenly finding out the reason behind the rejection, Rajaden stared blankly at the person in front of him. Tap, tap. Chin perched on one palm, Rajaden used one finger to tap his chin for a moment.

And with a perplexed tone, he asked his friend.

Let me repeat that for you. Its not a bad idea for both you and your younger sister. The stigma on her as a villainess doesnt matter either. And about the elders of the imperial family, rather than just being affable about it, theyd even welcome this marriage with open arms.

Then, Rajaden added.

Furthermore, becoming part of the imperial family and leaving ones name in the history books cant ever be considered dishonorable.

What Rajadens saying was not wrong.

Perhaps this would be a good opportunity for both Violet and Roen.

Violet had declared that she would not be wed, but its unknown for how long their household would be able to protect the unmarried ducal lady.

No matter how much hed try to think it through, its clear as day that the crown prince was the most ideal groom.

However

She doesnt want to.