The sixth prince, who had been executed in the kingdom after being betrayed by the trusted saint, was reincarnated and, in order to seek revenge, became engaged once again to the neighboring kingdom’s “Guillotine Princess.” As a result, he was adored and lived happily.

**King Edward’s** announcement caused a commotion throughout the hall. It was only natural since he had just mentioned his successor for the first time and declared that he wouldn’t involve himself in the succession struggle.

“Abigail and Bridget, continue to work hard,” he said.

“Yes,” they both replied, wearing smiles on the surface, but Bridget’s insides were likely boiling with anger. Until now, the treatment of the “Goddess’s Proxy” and the “Guillotine Princess” had been based on an implicit understanding with King Edward—meaning, it was what he wanted.

However, with this statement at the Baptism Festival, everything had been turned upside down. While Bridget still had the advantage in terms of support from the imperial nobility and the public, it was no longer a guarantee.

After all, according to King Edward’s words, the next queen would be determined by merit alone.

The nobles were sure to reconsider their allegiances, pondering which of the two princesses would make a better queen, and which side they should support.

In essence, Bridget’s strategy of turning Princess Abigail into the “Guillotine Princess” had been completely undermined.

“Ahaha… You did it, didn’t you?” I mumbled.

I hadn’t expected King Edward to grant my request so quickly. He looked at me with an expression that said he’d done me a favor, indeed.

Because of this, Bridget’s side would likely be intensely investigating why King Edward made this statement. They would probably discover that I had a meeting with King Edward just before the Baptism Festival.

And then… for revenge, they might send assassins or poison. If it were just aimed at me, that wouldn’t be an issue, but I needed to be extra cautious to ensure Princess Abigail’s safety.

There might have been a better way to handle this situation, but considering it as King Edward’s subtle retaliation for my request, I couldn’t complain.

With a stoic Princess Abigail and Bridget’s radiant smile in front of the contrasting crowd, I couldn’t help but wear a wry smile.

**◇**

“Princess Abigail.”

“I’ve been waiting for you.”

Late at night during the Baptism Festival, I visited Princess Abigail’s room through a hidden passage. She was waiting for me with an expression that suggested she had something to say, something she wouldn’t let me leave without explaining.

“Haha… Well then, let me explain today’s events.”

With a somewhat bitter smile, I proceeded to tell her about my conversation with King Edward. The moment I informed her, Princess Abigail’s eyes widened in surprise, but gradually, her expression turned stern.

“King Edward is not only known as the ‘Golden Lion King,’ a hero, but he also has a rather harsh personality. One misstep, and your life would have been in danger, Gustav.”

“Yes…”

I could only accept her chastising words because I knew she genuinely cared about my well-being.

However, more than the content of my conversation with King Edward, what I appreciated the most was her concern for my neck injury.

“But, I won’t make a similar move. Please refrain from such reckless actions.”

“Haha…”

Her firm tone left no room for negotiation, and I could only laugh awkwardly.

But, her actions and words conveyed her understanding, and I was grateful for that. Nevertheless, she didn’t seem entirely pleased with my actions.

“Do you really understand, though?”

I felt like she was reading my thoughts as she furrowed her brows and peered into my face.

“However… Thank you. I never expected you would go to such lengths for me.”

“It’s not for you; it’s for me.”

Yes… It was all for my sake. For vengeance and for the continuation of that day…

“Hehe, I thought you would say that.”

She said so with a smile that melted my heart—a smile that she only showed to me.