Getting spoiled in a woman dominating world Chapter 500: A request

As nourishment was consumed, Rheanne occupied the seat adjacent to Brandon, intermittently lifting her chalice for a sip.

Her gaze subtly shifted towards him from the side of her vision.

He was quietly partaking in his meal, masticating his food while his eyes seemed to fix on an indeterminate point.

A slight crease formed on her brow as she queried, "Kael, are you troubled by something?"

Hm?

Brandon turned his head to face her, managing a small, unremarkable smile as he gave a negative shake of his head.

"No, I am quite well."

Rheanne's scrutiny intensified, "...Kael."

The gentle manner in which she uttered his name elicited a sigh from him.

He set down the segment of bread he was holding and reclined slightly in his chair.

"It is simply that... it appears Amelia is to be wed."

Rheanne's eyes lowered as she continued to eat.

She did not seem taken aback, yet a subtle alteration flickered across her expression—'Did he...'

She took another small mouthful, chewing with deliberation before speaking again, "I comprehend. The Emperor has sought suitable alliances for some duration; it is not entirely surprising for a princess of her standing."

Brandon inclined his head, his gaze fixed on the table rather than on her.

"Mhm... I am aware. Political unions. However, she remains so young. And having witnessed her sheer delight when we ventured into the city that particular night... it feels unduly harsh to confine her to such a fate."

Rheanne directed a glance at him, "She has developed an affection for you. The correspondence you sent... it held more significance for her than you likely comprehend."

Brandon expelled a quiet breath, absently stroking the back of his neck.

"That was not my intention. I merely wished to provide her with something to anticipate—a means to perceive the world through an alternate perspective, given her restricted mobility within the castle walls. I had not anticipated her forming such a… connection."

Upon hearing this statement, she inquired softly, "And yourself? Have you, too, grown fond of her?"

Brandon paused momentarily, then a soft exhalation escaped his lips, "It would appear that way..."

Rheanne displayed surprise, as she had not expected such a straightforward admission.

"Would you like me to speak with the Emperor?"

With a negative motion of his head, he responded, "No... not at this juncture. My immediate priority is to ascertain Amelia's own desires."

---

Brandon ascended to the private veranda, which offered a vista of the inner courtyard, as the cool evening atmosphere caressed his skin.

The Emperor, Valerian Bleaufort, was already seated at a modest table.

"Haha, Sir Kael, it brings me great pleasure to share a cup of tea with you on this magnificent evening," the emperor expressed warmly as Brandon entered.

A discreet maid proceeded to pour tea into a second porcelain vessel for Brandon, subsequently executing a profound bow before departing the veranda, gently closing the doors behind her with a subtle click.

Brandon took a seat opposite the emperor, who regarded him for a moment before inclining his head with genuine appreciation.

"Thanks to the efforts of Goddess Rheanne and yourself, the region enjoys tranquility. My gratitude for this is perpetual."

Brandon gestured casually with a slight smile, "It was a minor undertaking. We simply executed the necessary actions."

The Emperor raised his cup, imbibed slowly, and then placed it back down. "You are too humble, Sir Kael. The dispatches from the western mountains conveyed dire circumstances. The tower had become dangerously unstable, and the entities emerging were unlike any encountered by my scouts previously."

"Many surmised it would require months to restore stability. Yet, you and the Goddess resolved the situation within a mere span of weeks. My populace is already composing ballads in her honor."

Brandon took a sip of the tea, "Rheanne undertook the primary exertion. My role was merely supplementary."

Valerian emitted a soft chuckle, "Even so, your prowess has attained legendary status amongst my guards. A single man vanquishing a hundred of my elite soldiery in the training grounds without a bead of sweat... the narrative persists, even after two years."

Brandon produced a brief, dry laugh, "I was merely indulging in a display. I had no intention of propagating such tales."

The Emperor leaned forward slightly, "Whether rumors or facts, your presence here has engendered stability. The eastern territories are once again secure. The villagers have commenced their return to their abodes. Commerce routes are being re-established. For this, you have my profoundest acknowledgments."

He paused, then continued, "And in light of this appreciation... I have a proposition."

Taking another sip of his tea, Brandon inquired, "What nature is this proposition?"

Valerian's gaze sharpened, "The Goddess has already consented to assist with the residual unstable breaches within my domain. However, I would be most appreciative if you would remain here a while longer as my esteemed guest. I believe your expertise could greatly benefit the training of my elite cadres and provide counsel on matters pertaining to the towers."

"Naturally, your recompense would be substantial. Territories, accolades, wealth, whatever your heart desires. Furthermore... I would be deeply honored should you contemplate becoming a permanent confederate of the crown."

Brandon remained silent for a moment, absorbing the proposition presented to him.