That’s Not What Kissing Means! - Chapter 67

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This chapter was translated by Lunox Team. To support us and help keep this series going, visit our website: LunoxScans.com
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That’s not what kissing means!

Episode 67

The image of the Duke he had seen at the Imperial Palace a few days ago came to mind.

It was the first time they had met since the previous Duke’s funeral.

The words that he had grown up splendidly were not a lie.

Over the long years, as the Grand Cleric, he had encountered many people.

No matter how high their position, no matter how privileged their upbringing—

One’s innate aura could not be hidden.

That’s why the Grand Cleric was not afraid of people.

He knew well that material things could not change a person’s essence.

In that sense, when he first saw the previous Duke Ashford, he had received a great shock.

An overwhelming presence that encompassed everyone pressed down on the air. He was born to hold dominance.

And Theo, whom he had recently seen…

Surpassed his father.

The Grand Cleric could instinctively tell.

Behind that plausible smile lurked a heavy aura that no one could touch.

Every breath he exhaled and every glance showed the leisure of a predator.

It was a dangerous coldness that ordinary people would never recognize.

“Unlike when he was young, he’s become murderous.”

The Grand Cleric recalled young Theo.

Then he wore a bitter smile.

“Well, even then he didn’t have an ounce of cuteness.”

The Grand Cleric recalled the past.

That day was the day of the previous Duke’s funeral.

Usually, he didn’t attend events crowded with people. The Grand Cleric despised humans.

The hypocrisy covering their faces and the stench that couldn’t be covered even with perfume would surely torment him.

But this day was special.

That’s why he had rushed here in one breath from the Holy Kingdom. He wanted to witness Duke Ashford’s final moments with his own eyes.

As always, those wearing masks of pity gossiped here and there.

The tragedy of a prestigious family was nothing more than social gossip to enliven their spirits.

The Grand Cleric appeared before them with a benevolent face.

Everyone was amazed and made way for him, sparing no admiration.

Some cried out blessings, others watched as if seeing something miraculous.

The countless gazes were familiar.

Now it was time to show his compassion as the Grand Cleric.

He approached the young master of House Ashford.

When the face that closely resembled the dead Duke looked up at him, a strange thrill rose within him.

As if it showed their respective positions, as if the Duke who had been so formidably powerful was now gone.

The Grand Cleric smiled gently as always. So that no one could read his inner thoughts.

Then he offered comfort to the child.

‘The Goddess gives trials from time to time. Such a time has come for Theo as well.’

The child did not cry. He looked directly at him with unbreaking eyes.

The Grand Cleric spoke again in a worried voice.

As usual, hiding his sense of superiority and armed with a generous expression.

‘It’s a situation too difficult for a child to handle. Unless someone helps him…’

It was the moment he bent his waist to stroke the innocent young master’s head.

Thwack—!

Theo blocked his touch.

It was a firm strength unbefitting his age.

Perhaps due to the completely unexpected situation, the Grand Cleric’s eyes widened as his sacred mask crumbled.

‘…’

‘…’

In an instant, the surroundings became quiet.

Young Theo slowly pulled down the hand he had caught.

At the same time, the sharp violet gaze that was revealed looked as if it would pierce through the Grand Cleric.

Soon after, Theo’s lips curved long.

‘An ordinary child might find it difficult. But I am Duke Ashford.’

He had made everyone present recognize his position once again.

The people who had been murmuring immediately shut their mouths.

It meant that as the head of the family, he would not easily overlook insults either.

In the end, Theo used the Grand Cleric to firmly imprint his position on everyone.

The Grand Cleric, who had been recalling that time, laughed lowly.

As he inhaled, unpleasant emotions filled his lungs completely.

The sacred artifact he had been holding had already lost its light.

He looked down at the mirror as if looking at trash, then threw it to the floor.

With a crash, the sacred artifact rolled around.

The Grand Cleric left the Prayer Hall with an emotionless face.

The High Priest who had been waiting outside the door followed alongside him.

“A letter has come from Sara.”

“I see.”

“The ink developed this time is very useful. Since it can only be seen with holy water, it’s perfect for sending secret letters.”

“What did Sara say?”

The High Priest answered calmly.

“It’s content recording His Majesty the Emperor’s daily life. She says he consistently consumes the tea you provide.”

“That’s good.”

The Emperor was becoming more and more docile.

Having tasted a miracle once, he would eagerly await the next one.

“And this is… a letter sent by His Majesty the Emperor. It seems to be a request from Duke Ashford…”

The Grand Cleric snatched the letter from him and checked it himself.

“He’s asking for permission to view any records of the Holy Kingdom. It’s what I expected.”

The Grand Cleric, who had been walking down the corridor, suddenly stopped in his tracks.

Had he read it wrong?

He checked the letter’s contents several times, but there was no mistake.

“Sweet desserts…?”

* * *

At Evelyn’s words that she would soon leave the manor, everyone was greatly saddened.

Especially the Ashford Knight Order showed noticeably melancholy expressions.

Vanessa, Victor, and Evelyn were sitting in the courtyard, savoring refreshments.

Vanessa spoke in a deeply sorrowful voice.

“You’re going to the north…! How will I bear missing you so much?”

Since the matter regarding the sacred artifacts was secret, they had said they were going to Monster Mountain on business, not to the Holy Kingdom.

“But why aren’t you taking us? Why are only Lord and Lady Evelyn going?”

Flustered by Victor’s question, Evelyn haltingly explained the reason.

“Well… there’s a problem with the Monster Mountain seal… they say the last two remaining must double-check it.”

“What kind of problem occurred with the seal?”

“Something very confidential… related to ancient language… something that absolutely requires me… that sort of thing.”

“What exactly is it?”

Victor, who had been asking detailed questions, soon tilted his head in confusion.

“Come to think of it, why are you staying at this manor?”

It was such a sudden question.

Just then, Vanessa jabbed Victor’s solar plexus with her elbow.

“You idiot, it’s obviously a secret!”

“What’s so obvious about it!”

“Why else would an Imperial Researcher come all the way here! Lord must be carrying out some tremendous imperial command!”

“Ah, a secret mission!”

Victor’s eyes were already sparkling.

“You’re such an amazing person?”

Evelyn smiled awkwardly and replied.

“More than amazing…”

“I guess everyone has their own talent! Your dagger skills are terrible, but you’re good with ancient language…”

Once again, Vanessa struck his solar plexus.

This time, Evelyn was also cheering her on.

Having finished dealing with Victor, Vanessa clapped her hands and made a suggestion.

“Then how about learning some self-defense techniques before you leave?”

“Self-defense techniques?”

“You never know what actions monsters might take, like last time. Lady Evelyn might find herself in danger!”

Hearing this, she recalled Theo’s words about always staying alert once they arrived in the Holy Kingdom.

‘Right, there’s nothing wrong with being careful about everything.’

Seeing her determined expression, Vanessa continued.

“You don’t necessarily need to handle weapons to protect yourself. You can escape from danger with just your bare hands!”

“Would it work on people too?”

At Evelyn’s mention of people rather than monsters, Vanessa’s eyes wavered.

It seemed like something she didn’t know about was happening.

Soon she smiled brightly and nodded.

“Of course, I’ll teach you a few things starting now.”

First, she suggested changing into comfortable clothes and led Evelyn to the indoor training ground.

She decided to lend her own training clothes to Evelyn, who had a similar build.

While guiding her to the changing room, she whispered so no one else could hear.

“Lady Evelyn, I won’t ask you anything from now on. Except for just one thing.”

“What is it?”

“Has Lord perhaps… ever given you a weapon for your protection?”

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This chapter was translated by Lunox Team. To support us and help keep this series going, visit our website: LunoxScans.com
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