Daddy, I Don’t Want to Marry!

Fresia knit her eyebrows as she read the report from her subordinate.The secret rendezvous with Marquis Lennox was a success, but now the problem is the empress.

The rumor being spread by the empress was truly malicious. The report read:

The crown prince, who had been shunned by his own mother, has returned as a brutal tyrant who slaughters his enemies like a butcher. How could a man like him ever be a wise ruler?

D*mn this sly, evil b*tch! Fresia hissed out curses as she read her subordinates report.

If this was the public opinion in the empire, then the crown princes suitability for the throne might be questioned unless he made a great contribution.

Worst case scenario, he might have to forfeit his status as the crown prince.Although she couldnt say he was a nice person, Max had never crossed the line.During wars, he told me to keep the weak alive even though they couldnt fight.As such, most of the stigma surrounding the crown prince had been unjustly brought onto him. Despite that, whenever he heard anyone speaking dishonorably about him, Max only responded with a blank face.

I dont really care. Just report all the rumors you hear about me,he would say.

However, knowing that Max had been wounded by what happened with the former empress, Fresia didnt dare to honestly report to him.I should ask others not to speak about this rumor so that the lord doesnt hear about it.

Fresia tore up the report containing the rumor and tossed it in the fireplace. As she watched the burning report, she began thinking of ways to make the rumor die down.I need someplace that wouldnt be affected even if the empress decides to act upAt that moment, a familiar voice interrupted her thoughts.

What are you doing?

Fresia was startled by Maxs sudden appearance, but pretended to be calm. Oh, welcome back. When she turned her head to look at him, she noticed that his eyes were a bit mellow and that he had a somber aura, which made him appear calm.

How did things go with Marquis Lennox?

Oh, we were successful in reaching him. He has requested for us to send about 20,000 of our men.

Even though losing 20,000 soldiers wasnt a big deal, Marquis Lennoxs army only consisted of about 60,000 men. Even if reinforcements were sent over, victory was not guaranteed.

He probably didnt want His Highness to suffer a loss if he were to fail.If Max sent reinforcements as requested, it would be like putting those men on death row. Because of this, Fresia was hoping Max would refuse.

But contrary to her expectations, the heartless crown prince said something different from her wishes. Send the reinforcements.

What? If we do that, theyll only be wiped out, she tried dissuading him, but Max was adamant about his decision.

A small sacrifice is worth it if I can gain something bigger from it.

He was right. If Max supported the southern border, then he would be able to gain support from the southern forces, including Marquis Lennox. Even so, Fresia couldnt find it in herself to be happy.Did you forget that those people are your men, Your Highness?

A cold-blooded man who could abandon his subordinates for the sake of achieving his goal.Fresia tried to deny her thoughts, telling herself that it was just a groundless rumor, but she couldnt help the ache she felt in her heart.

After all, its my fault for not advising him well.Fresia was bitterly laughing at herself, when she heard Maxs voice.

But send 50,000 men instead.

50,000 soldiers were enough to guarantee a victory. Still, it would cause a huge burden to send this number of men as reinforcements as they made up a significant portion of military strength. Knowing that Max was someone who didnt do anything that would cause him to suffer a loss, Fresia stared at her lord in astonishment.

Do you mean that?

In truth, it was more beneficial for Max to only send 20,000 men considering that he had to execute the rebellion. Even if they were annihilated, it would be a loss that he could endure. However, unbeknownst to Fresia, there was a reason behind Maxs decision to send an excessive number of reinforcements.

She wouldnt think of me as evil if I go as far as to do this, will she?Max smirked as he recalled Jubelians face.

At the sight of Maxs smiling face, Fresia recoiled with fright.Yes, Im sure hell change his mind, his decision just now was probably a mistake,she thought.

However, Max didnt take back his words. If we only send 20,000 men as reinforcements, my soldiers will do nothing but die in vain, wont they? Id rather send a number of men that will improve our chance at victory.

Feeling deeply moved by Maxs words, Fresia knelt on one knee. My lord youve grown to become an excellent person.

Max wore a strange expression while looking at Fresia, who had misunderstood him, then frowned.Im hearing all kinds of things just by trying to look good for Jubelian.

At the unfamiliar feeling rising inside him, Max quickly switched the topic. Theres something I need you to do for me, he said.

Go ahead, my lord. Ill carry out this duty at the risk of my life!

When Max told her his request, Fresia asked back with a perplexed expression. What? You dont want rumors about you and Lady Floyen to spread?

Yes.

Why would someone who let rumors about himself spread care so much about another persons rumorFresia was dumbfounded, but soon realized that Max had begun to change after he met the lady.Im really beginning to wonder what kind of person Lady Floyen is. I cant believe theres a person out there who could make His Highness do things like this.

Fresias eyes shined as she bowed. I will endeavor to serve as best I can.

After Fresia left, Max furrowed his eyebrows as he recalled the contract clauses.I guess I should say goodbye to her before I leave.