Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.7.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Black Velvet Elegy Web Novel A web novel platform where elegance meets storytelling. Discover tales of romance, tragedy, and fantasy—crafted to captivate every reader. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/blog-5/) - -- Blog Page -- ## Pages - [Home Page](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/) - Weekly Featured She is the Daughter of the Villainess in a Ridiculous Novel 18+ Bring It On! 르릅 I Became an Omega Trapped on a Deserted Island with the Obsessed Male Lead I Became The Male Leads’ Target I Became the Male Lead in a Romance Novel 헤럴드 캐럴 I Reincarnated as the Daughter of ## My Templates - [Default Kit](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/?elementor_library=default-kit) ## Manga - [Performing official duties with the Magic Tower Master’s ex-boyfriend](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/performing-official-duties-with-the-magic-tower-masters-ex-boyfriend/) - Summary Q. What’s the worst possible reunion with your ex-boyfriend? A. Running into him at work. “I’m Vivian Soling, dispatched to the Mage Tower.” “They sent another delegate? Persistent, aren’t they?” “Huh, you…?” “…Vivi?” That jerk was mocking me, then got shocked when he recognized me. No matter how I look at it, he’s the - [I Raised a Nine Tailed Fox Wrongly](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-raised-a-nine-tailed-fox-wrongly/) - Synopsis Cillia, a noble holy knight of the Western Continent. While exterminating smuggled yokai,she sensed something unusual from a fox spirit and sought out a divine priestess from the Eastern Continent. Only to learn that it was a terrifying Gumiho, a nine-tailed fox. The priestess warned her that if she didn’t want it to become - [Queen of Revenge](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/queen-of-revenge/) - Synopsis “I’m going to cut off your head and offer it to the tyrant of Calande.” After abandoning her pride and dignity to submit to the only sister she had left, the only thing awaiting her was a miserable death. Executed for treason and beheaded—when Ioret opened her eyes once more, she made a vow. - [The Teddy Bear Sends the Insomniac Villain to Dreamland](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-teddy-bear-sends-the-insomniac-villain-to-dreamland/) - Synopsis One day, while living a dull life after reincarnating as the Witch of the West— “I… turned into a bear.” She suddenly lost all of her magical power and became trapped inside a teddy bear. She did eventually find a way to recover her magic and return to normal… But she never imagined that - [Holy Power for a Villainess?](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/holy-power-for-a-villainess/) - Synopsis Roxina Tanzerik, the Empire’s infamous villainess.I transmigrated into the body of a woman who wasn’t even loved by her own family. “Well, I never had a family in my original life anyway.” Since this life already seemed better than my previous one, I planned to live quietly without asking for too much, but then— - [Why Is Everyone Hiding Everything?](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/why-is-everyone-hiding-everything/) - Synopsis My older sister is hiding that she regressed. My friend is hiding their status window. The prince is hiding his true identity. The maid is hiding a child. Why is everyone hiding so many secrets? And why do I keep finding out all of them?! - [Bring It On!](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/bring-it-on/) - “I will definitely come to rescue you! Stay healthy and wait!!” Day 12 of drifting on a deserted island. The worthless traitors escaped the island on the only lifeboat. Day 39 of drifting on the deserted island. A handsome man with a sturdy body was washed ashore by the sea. But this guy, not only - [You Said You Wanted Us to Break Up](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/you-said-you-wanted-us-to-break-up/) - “Please, can’t you trust me just once?” When I pleaded, my husband didn’t listen to me. I understood him. After all, I was the daughter of his family’s enemy. Our marriage must have felt like a curse to him. Even when I was sent to the enemy’s camp instead of his childhood friend, I tried - [Shadow Heir II: Dark Glory](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/shadow-heir-ii-dark-glory/) - “Dad, you want me to play a spoiled, arrogant rich kid… but I’m too honest for that. How am I supposed to pull it off?” “No need to act. Just tone it down a little.” … His father is Su Rui, once known as the strongest soldier-king. His mother is Junshi, a legendary tactician once - [She is the Daughter of the Villainess in a Ridiculous Novel](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/she-is-the-daughter-of-the-villainess-in-a-ridiculous-novel/) - “Idel. She’s the duke’s daughter.” No. “Oh, sister. How could you…?” “I’m sorry, Rowena; it was I who spent the night with the duke that day.” That’s a lie, too. Idel secretly bit her tongue while looking at the shocked duke and duchess, and the original heroine. ‘Why did - [I’ve Become a S*ave Bride](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/ive-become-a-save-bride/) - Betrayal by her beloved fiancé and her dearest friend. “The child in your belly… is His Highness’s child?” “Th-that… Lenette… that… sob… I didn’t mean to…” Not only did the two people she trusted most deceive her, but they also stole everything from her under the absurd pretext of “treason.” Thus, she became a s*ave - [Embrace Me, Then Kill Me](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/embrace-me-then-kill-me/) - "Grant me the rest that only death can give." Sara locked herself away. For the glory of her homeland, she could sacrifice everything. She led countless victories on the battlefield and was praised as the “Dancer of the Battlefield.” But in her last confrontation with the dragon, she became an immortal, and in doing so, - [I Accidentally Revealed the Original Story to the Villain](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-accidentally-revealed-the-original-story-to-the-villain/) - I reincarnated into the world of a novel. And not just any novel, but my favorite one, Square Illusion. In this life, I was the daughter of a powerful duke, born with a golden spoon in my mouth. The darling of my family, showered with love. That was me. The problem? I was Sylvia Langston, - [Even Ghosts Get Paid to Babysit the Prince](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/even-ghosts-get-paid-to-babysit-the-prince/) - I transmigrated into the body of a princess in some unknown rofan novel. And not just any princess—I was the cherished daughter finally born after a string of princes. ‘Goodbye to a life spent being compared to the boss’s spoiled daughter!’ ‘Goodbye to that damn company’s signature toilet-cleaning duties too!’ I thought this new life - [I Accidentally Ended Up Contracting with a Crazy Dragon](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-accidentally-ended-up-contracting-with-a-crazy-dragon/) - “Great Gold Dragon Setentias, I have come to renew the contract.” Like an angel cast down by divine wrath, his form was a blend of darkness and holiness. Between the parted robes, sculpted muscles were revealed. Beatrice, the third imperial princess of the Scotra Empire, lost her senses at the sight of his beauty. That - [I Possessed a Romance-Fantasy Novel… So Why Are There Gates?!](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-possessed-a-romance-fantasy-novel-so-why-are-there-gates/) - A former S-rank hunter, now living as a duke’s daughter, suddenly found a man sweet as honey in her life. A peaceful world where dresses and tea times replace gates and monsters, and with a honey-sweet man added to the mix, she swore she’d spend the rest of her days being blissfully lazy. But… why - [ I Became the Male Lead in a Romance Novel](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-became-the-male-lead-in-a-romance-novel/) - Lucia was a charming character. She was beautiful, elegant, alluring, and noble. She was perfect. Except for one thing, excluding her position as a villainess. She was in the role of the antagonist, tormenting the female lead and trying to possess the male lead in the novel. As a result, she eventually meets her demise - [The Dragon’s Obsession with Water is Difficult](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-dragons-obsession-with-water-is-difficult/) - In a hopeless, wretched world, the time-limited villainess, Sierra, was reborn. With a frail body that needed constant care, she tried to quietly live her life and regain her health…. “Hey, are you okay?” “Who are you?” On a rainy night when the rain was pouring heavily, I discovered that the black-haired male lead, who - [I Don’t Want to Attack You!](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-dont-want-to-attack-you/) - On the way home, a drunken Heather helped a small pink elephant who was crying because of a cold nose. She did for the palm size elephant a nose cover, and the elephant claimed to be the God of s*xual desire and affection. “For your help, I’ll let you share a passionate love - [Altruistic Warrior](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/altruistic-warrior/) - A world where the game system is default. In that world where there were levels, inventories, skills, and dungeons, Aine’s level was only 7. Growing up alone in a small village on the outskirts, she barely lived through beginner monster hunting and she thought she would continue to do so for the rest of - [Dead-End Villainess Who Makes Medicine](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/dead-end-villainess-who-makes-medicine/) - “A year at most.” For the sake of revenge, I lived for over ten years wearing the mask of a villainess. I’ve completed all preparations for my final step and ready to go into exile, but my time is running out! ‘I can’t die unjustly like this.’ There was only one way to cure myself. - [The Prince's Daily Face-Slapping](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-princes-daily-face-slapping/) - Jiang Zhuo had harbored affection for Prince Chen Wen since childhood, enduring the role of a devoted admirer. However, after crossing a line and inadvertently causing distress to his beloved cousin, Chen Wen, in a fit of anger, decided to end their relationship. While many believed Jiang Zhuo would cling to her feelings, she surprised - [The Little Sister in the Devastating Novel Wants to Live](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-little-sister-in-the-devastating-novel-wants-to-live/) - In the devastating novel where the family of the female protagonists eats up the family of the male protagonist, she was reincarnated as the younger sister of the male protagonist who died while being tortured. I wasn’t even his sister. I was a commoner adopted by the Duchess, who was shocked when his sister died. - [Ancient Ancestral Ruins](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/ancient-ancestral-ruins/) - In ancient times, Lu Jiu, the supreme ruler of the human race, battled a demonic dragon in the void. He mistakenly entered the ancestral ruins, where he was trapped for ten thousand years! Within the ancestral ruins lies the Immortal Burial Ground, where countless immortals from throughout human history are buried! He endured life and - [I Hit the Back of the Tower Master’s Head](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-hit-the-back-of-the-tower-masters-head/) - Clang! That ringing sound was Pinocchio smacking a wizard on the back of the head with a frying pan. The wizard, who had mistaken me for an enemy and was about to use magic, dropped like paper. “Um… Do you know my name?” He woke up looking pitiful, with no memory - [After My Dead Ending](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/after-my-dead-ending/) - As death approaches, I realized that this world was just someone else’s work. My family died, and my life was not easy. All were devices for the awakening of the female protagonist and her splendid ending. Isn’t it too much to say that everyone except me becomes happy? ‘Don’t make me laugh. Who died?’ It - [The Most Unruly Prince Consort of Great Qian](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-most-unruly-prince-consort-of-great-qian/) - When Gu Dao suddenly transmigrated, he found himself in the body of a good-for-nothing prince consort—a man tricked by wicked servants and scorned by all. His heartless father wanted to cast him out of the family. The princess wanted to divorce him. The entire imperial court was waiting to watch him become the laughingstock of - [What Should I Do If I Time-Traveled Forty Years Later and My Lover Has Become an Old Man?](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/what-should-i-do-if-i-time-traveled-forty-years-later-and-my-lover-has-become-an-old-man/) - On her wedding anniversary, Yu Yao steps out to buy groceries and unexpectedly travels forty years into the future. Confused, she finds herself at the Citizen Service Center, where her husband, now an elderly man, takes her back home. Years earlier, Professor Jiang’s wife vanished without a trace and was thought to be dead. He - [The Lady and the Stableman](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-lady-and-the-stableman/) - “Walter, is taking my virtue still valid?” Edith Lowell was sold as the fourth wife of an old Viscount. However, the old viscount collapsed unconscious, and to top it off, she was threatened with bearing another man’s child as the Viscount’s heir. But Edith knew. Every time she faced the stableman in front of her, - [The Female Knight of Doom](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-female-knight-of-doom/) - Alice, an orphan, chose the God of Doom as her patron saint, who had no believers. Finally, she found her own footing. A female knight who stirred up the whole world with the tip of her sword. Female Knight of Doom x God of Doom. - [Leaving the Changmen Palace](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/leaving-the-changmen-palace/) - Chen Jiao is a very simple person, the Golden Palace and the Long Gate Palace are the two most important things in her life. Her joys and sorrows can also be summed up in just two words. Liu Che. At least, Liu Che thought so! - [The Gloomy Sub Male Lead Is My Boss](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-gloomy-sub-male-lead-is-my-boss/) - I transmigrated into one of those common mass-market fantasy romance novels. Into the role of a trashy side character who betrays her boss. I swore I wouldn’t do such a thing, but the problem was… it had already happened. The cruel sub male lead who kills his brothers and becomes emperor to claim the heroine - [I Reincarnated as the Daughter of a Runaway Sub Heroine](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-reincarnated-as-the-daughter-of-a-runaway-sub-heroine/) - I reincarnated as a character in a novel. The problem is that the failed love story of the sub couple in the story is my parents. If my mother, who ran away while pregnant with me, reunites with my father, a terrifying, sad ending filled with death and catastrophe awaits! Thanks to twisting the original - [There Is No Paradise Where You Escaped](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/there-is-no-paradise-where-you-escaped/) - “I thought the place I ran away to was paradise.” Vivianne thought everything would be fine as long as she could escape from the King of Preston, who wanted to take her as his mistress. But what awaited her at the place she escaped to was yet another misfortune. The man whom Vivianne had saved - [Snatching the Villain’s Precious Princess](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/snatching-the-villains-precious-princess/) - It has been 37 years since Gates and Hunters first appeared in the world. Yoo Pado, a renowned Hunter, finds himself entangled by Eun Morae, the daughter of outlaws and scoundrels. The conflict began with a clash of egos between inexperienced individuals, both insisting, ‘I’m better than you.’ *** “Oh, sure. - [Stunning Prisoner](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/stunning-prisoner/) - An endless sea stretches out around a remote island. In this place, surrounded by the vast ocean, lies Catena, the most notorious prison on Earth. Billy is sentenced to 10 years in Catena for the crime of mu*dering Hayel, the greatest saint of the present era. After surviving several crises among the dens of the - [Transmigrated as a Wicked Woman to Raise Cubs — Now the Beastmen Are Obsessed!](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/transmigrated-as-a-wicked-woman-to-raise-cubs-now-the-beastmen-are-obsessed/) - [Many Cute Babies + Many Beast Husbands + Shura Field] Qiao Xixi woke up and found herself transmigrated into the beastman world of a novel. She had become the vicious mother who ab*sed the future villain cubs. Thrown straight into the harsh wilderness, she was faced with three small villain cubs who were - [The Female Alpha Consort Mistakenly Marks the Empress](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-female-alpha-consort-mistakenly-marks-the-empress/) - *Double rebirth/regression revenge angst-romance. Scheming noble alpha vs. tsundere black-inside-white-outside omega.* Mu Lanshi loved Princess Meng Yan her whole life, but on the day Meng Yan rose to power, she grounded her sincerity into dust: “Lady Mu’s sincerity, in this palace’s eyes, is no different from the rotten rice in Pingjin Alley.” Meng Yan caused - [For My Only Savior](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/for-my-only-savior/) - It was a marriage without love— A sacrifice made for the sake of a crumbling noble house. But the estate I was sold off to—Eiffel—became a comforting home to me. And my husband, Siegfried, taught me what it meant to love someone. But I was the one who ruined that estate. I was the one - [For Your Failed Unrequited Love](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/for-your-failed-unrequited-love/) - Celebrity of the Xenomium Academy. All female students like him. Felix Berg. Recently, there has been a person that annoys him. Lucy Keenan, who is just one year lower. The girl, who has a very unremarkable appearance and a calm personality, is the only one who can distinguish Felix from his identical twin Adrian like - [After the Wicked Wife Leaves](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/after-the-wicked-wife-leaves/) - ‘I will now disappear from your life forever.’ “I don’t think of her as my wife. It’s just for the sake of appearances.” Cornelia Odile Blant, the wife of the Duke Blant. Though she was never loved by her husband, she gave her all and tried her best. She endured everything, from - [Dad Kidnapped the Obsessive Maniac](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/dad-kidnapped-the-obsessive-maniac/) - I possessed a supporting character sacrificed to the obsessive main lead in an R-rated BL novel. I became the emperor’s daughter with an abundance of queenly qualities. “Yvonne, this is your birthday present.” Before even attempting to escape the fate of being sacrificed to the obsessive main lead, the emperor planted dead flags - [For the Villain Who Saved Me](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/for-the-villain-who-saved-me/) - “You are my god… and my salvation.” The woman was born in the lowest, dirtiest, darkest place. She begged, stole, and eventually hid herself away in the woods of the Feyros duchy to survive. “What is your name?” That was when she met the Duke of Feyros. “Ellie. From now - [Hall of Mercy: Cibei Hall](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/hall-of-mercy-cibei-hall/) - Synopsis: “In this lifetime, I have loved only three things— Supreme power, boundless wealth, and my younger sister, Yuehui.” NOTE: HE (Happy Ending), alternate Ming dynasty setting. Male lead is morally ambiguous, not blood-related to the female lead. This is a historical romance—please refrain from forcing modern interpretations. One-line summary: - [Human Rights for Female-oriented Game Villains](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/human-rights-for-female-oriented-game-villains/) - I possessed the villainess of a female-oriented game. But the role of a villain is usually difficult. Irritating family, cheating fiancé, subordinates who cross the line. Isn’t this the condition for any saint to become a villain? I tried to be nice though, because I knew that if I acted like a - [I Became The Male Leads’ Target](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-became-the-male-leads-target/) - When I came to my senses, I became the villainess who managed a dark reverse harem romance-fantasy dormitory school. This dormitory school is a place to imprison nobles, a place where they couldn’t see the light of the world for the rest of their life… “You’re the woman who ordered to knock me - [I Became an Omega Trapped on a Deserted Island with the Obsessed Male Lead](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-became-an-omega-trapped-on-a-deserted-island-with-the-obsessed-male-lead/) - I have to survive for a year, avoiding the obsessed male lead. I transmigrated into an explicit and decadent BL novel. As the villainess who envies and torments the beauty. And the deserted island is the place where the beauty and the obsessed male lead continue from the original story. Why - [I Filmed BL Drama with my Crush](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-filmed-bl-drama-with-my-crush/) - Yin Cheng is a small-time unknown who has been secretly in love with Song Yu, a top senior in the same company, for many years. Once, Song Yu was casting for a new drama, and Yin Cheng was lucky enough to be selected. It’s a BL drama. He plays the second male lead, - [I Stole the Heroine’s Holy Grail](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/i-stole-the-heroines-holy-grail/) - I was excommunicated from my family for a crime I did not commit. But it wasn’t bad. I didn’t have much affection for the family, and I wanted to get out of the original flow of the novel. So I received a portion of my property that was originally mine, and left the family - [The Extra Decided to Be Fake](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-extra-decided-to-be-fake/) - The Duke’s lost daughter has returned. The birth of a child living with poor treatment in a nursery school was discovered belatedly. Everyone embraced her and greeted her with open arms. But I, the person in charge, wasn’t happy at all. Because this place wasn’t mine. * * * Be me and… Live up to - [The Male Lead’s Younger Sister is Still Sad Today](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-male-leads-younger-sister-is-still-sad-today/) - Possessed as the male lead’s younger sister. Having lost my parents in the war and living alone with my brother, I get a job at the notorious Duke of Akarut. “Hey, what’s your name?” “It’s Chase.” However, there were a few issues ― I was currently in disguise as a boy, and the problem was - [The Villainess Writes A Resignation Letter](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/novel/the-villainess-writes-a-resignation-letter/) - I’ve transmigrated into my favorite romance novel, which I’ve read hundreds of times while waiting for its completion. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if I transmigrated as a noble lady living a comfortable life? Unfortunately, I’ve transmigrated as the villainess who tormented the heroine mercilessly, ending up dying a horrible death as a fake saint ## Posts - [2783-chapter-70](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2783-chapter-70/) - “Here, it’s hot, so make sure to blow on it before you eat.” “Yes!” The first kitchen maid to sip the Dambaek-un broth opened her eyes wide. “Oh my…!” This maid, famous for having the most discerning palate, continuously shoveled the Dambaek-un into her mouth. Her eyes shimmered as a look of deep, moved - [2782-chapter-69](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2782-chapter-69/) - The Markal scanned her breakfast table, which looked no different from any other day. However, there was a white mass that caught her eye. When she asked about it, she was told it was something called ‘Dambaekdan’, made by Lenette. “Dambaekdan? This is the food that child made?” “Yes. They say she came out - [2781-chapter-68](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2781-chapter-68/) - Lenette threw herself into preparing the food for the Markal. The location was Karan Palace, where the Markal resided. She chose this restricted area as her cooking space, rather than the Karta Palace where she stayed, to avoid any potential interference. ‘They wouldn't dare pull any tricks in the place where the Markal is.’ - [2780-chapter-67](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2780-chapter-67/) - “Kazen. Everyone must have seen me with the Markal in that herb garden for the past five days, right?” “Presumably.” “The Markal wouldn’t be unaware of that either.” Kazen’s brow furrowed. “What are you trying to say?” “I mean there was an intention behind her conversing with me in such a public place.” “An - [2779-chapter-66](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2779-chapter-66/) - “I suspect it might be a necessary evil.” A necessary evil? Lenette’s eyes widened slightly, not having expected such an answer. The Markal chuckled at her reaction. “Why? Was that the right answer?” “It wasn’t a question with a single right answer, but I was surprised because it aligns closely with my own definition - [2778-chapter-65](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2778-chapter-65/) - “Does this happen to you often?” The Markal, who had been brushing the dirt off her trousers, jutted out her lower lip and looked at her grandson’s bride-to-be. “Everyone’s like this when they get old. Why are you getting so serious?” “I’m asking because, as a physician, I can’t just - [2777-chapter-64](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2777-chapter-64/) - With the warriors all withdrawn, only Kazen, the Markhal, and Lenette remained in the herb garden. The Markhal scowled at her grandson, who was standing there blankly beside Lenette. “What are you still doing here?” It seemed her order to "get lost" hadn't been intended for the warriors alone. “……” - [2776-chapter-63](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2776-chapter-63/) - Perhaps because it was early dawn, there was no one passing by the herb garden. Thanks to that, she was able to enter without any interference. Lenette, having entered the garden patch that sat isolated like a lonely island, spoke to Kuz. “Kuz, look at this.” Crouching down, Lenette pointed - [2775-chapter-62](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2775-chapter-62/) - “What is your name?” A voice carrying the weight of the years gradually faded from his ears. “It’s Ka... zen.” “Kazen. That’s a lovely name. If you have nowhere to go, how would you like to live here with us?” Kazen slowly opened his eyes. A dream... I - [2774-chapter-61](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2774-chapter-61/) - “I’m not very familiar with the Tazetra language. Does the word ‘slave’ mean ‘a gift sent by the Great Khal’?” Lenette asked back, her eyes devoid of even a single speck of malice. For a moment, silence descended upon the banquet hall. Those who had been causing a stir by feigning - [2773-chapter-60](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2773-chapter-60/) - Hierarchy exists everywhere. Forming groups, distinguishing the strong from the weak within them, and flaunting power through that process might simply be an irresistible human instinct. That primal instinct was currently playing out right here in Carta Palace. “Oh, you’re here?” As Lenette and Kazen entered the dining hall, the person sitting in the - [2772-chapter-59](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2772-chapter-59/) - “Is it because the nurses are women?” “…Director.” “Is that why you won’t threaten them?” “That is not the case. There were women among the technicians at the artillery workshop as well.” “There were. But they weren't young and beautiful like these nurses.” The vice captain let out a hollow laugh, seemingly at a - [2771-chapter-58](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2771-chapter-58/) - Ophelia entered the special patient treatment room. This was a place established with the kingdom's support to gather those suffering from rare or unknown diseases. While it was called a "treatment room" for the sake of appearance, in reality, it was closer to a "laboratory." She approached the first patient she encountered and offered - [2770-chapter-57](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2770-chapter-57/) - “If you go to the Kasabi Merchant Guild in the capital and show them this, telling them that I sent you, they will assist you, Lady Lenette.” Lenette quietly accepted the wooden plaque. ‘Assistance...’ “Is this for Kazen?” At that, Tamira shook her head. “No. This is for you alone, Lady Lenette.” As Lenette - [2769-chapter-56](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2769-chapter-56/) - The next morning, Lenette sought out Sabia as soon as dawn broke. Fortunately, Sabia did not refuse the meeting. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Lenette, stepping into the room, offered the first greeting. At that, the woman sitting at a corner table stood up hesitantly and approached. “Hello...” The small, petite woman was - [2767-chapter-20](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2767-chapter-20/) - Chapter 20 Grumbling under my breath, I accepted the paper envelope and opened it. Inside were the official documents I had dropped in the office. Every one of them was scorched and stained with soot. Ah, right. Unless they were burned so badly that the text became unreadable, I really should have rescued the documents - [2766-chapter-19](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2766-chapter-19/) - Chapter 19 When I checked the time, it was midnight. Far too late for an inn employee to be knocking on my door. I wasn’t expecting any visitors either, so I frowned in confusion. Just then, another knock sounded. Who could it be? Don’t tell me it’s Kade… The only person who would show up - [2765-chapter-18](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2765-chapter-18/) - Chapter 18 “Vivian!” Senior Investigator Simona’s startled voice scattered like sea spray. I heard nothing. I saw nothing. At this moment, in this place, there were only the magical beast and me. Keeping my gaze fixed on its eyes, I slowly raised my hand. “Shhh. It’s okay.” Golden waves spread from deep within my chest, - [2764-chapter-17](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2764-chapter-17/) - Chapter 17 Following Senior Investigator Simona, I stepped into the observation station’s rear yard. A magical beast was thrashing wildly about. “Easy! Easy!” “Ugh, why is it so strong?!” Several researchers struggled to calm the beast, which was as large as a carriage. Another magical beast was tied up a short distance away. Despite the - [2763-chapter-16](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2763-chapter-16/) - Chapter 16 The Next Day When I arrived at the entrance of the Marine Observation Station, I walked as slowly as possible. I simply couldn’t bring myself to go inside. Not that moving slowly did anything to calm my restless mind. In the end, I couldn’t sleep properly last night either. My eyes felt dry, - [2762-chapter-15](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2762-chapter-15/) - Chapter 15 No one questioned what had happened. After all, the delinquent Tower Lord had merely done what he always did. As if annoyed by the entire situation, Kade waved them away. “Ben. Show them both out.” “Yes, Tower Lord.” Then, before Aster and I had even left the office, he turned his back on - [2761-chapter-14](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2761-chapter-14/) - Chapter 14 “Have you gotten close enough to him that you’d defend him while insulting me?” “I only learned his name today. Why do you keep suspecting things?” A question one of the mages had asked while I was waiting in the lobby suddenly came to mind. “By any chance, when you got dragged into - [2760-chapter-13](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2760-chapter-13/) - Chapter 13 Four days after returning from the monster-subjugation mission. In the underground training hall of the Magic Tower. A deafening crack rang out, as if a massive boulder had split apart. Smoke billowed through the air. At the center of it, a mage sprawled on the ground staggered to his feet. Watching him, Kade - [2759-chapter-12](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2759-chapter-12/) - Chapter 12 When I deliberately asked as if it were no big deal, Kade stepped out of the shadows cast by the backlight, looking displeased. “Who said I ran away? It’s just that he’s not someone I can easily kill on the spot, so it’s better not to run into him.” “A person? That was - [2758-chapter-11](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2758-chapter-11/) - Chapter 11 Before I could even process what kind of situation this was, my first instinct was to glance out the window. What if someone saw Kade and me riding in the same carriage? Fortunately, there were plenty of luxurious carriages around us, so ours didn’t seem particularly noticeable. Meanwhile, Kade was staring at me - [2757-chapter-10](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2757-chapter-10/) - Chapter 10 Amid the guests’ quiet gasps, Kade let out a faint laugh. “Perhaps it’s because Your Highness is the kind of person who sends invitations through children. This version of you feels much more natural.” Even while a royal princess was practically threatening his life, his attitude seemed to say, Go ahead and try if - [2756-chapter-09](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2756-chapter-09/) - Chapter 9 Vivian’s assignment from Administrator Yukel didn’t end there. “Tell Simona to report to the docks tomorrow.” I had only just returned from my field assignment and hadn’t even fully opened the office door yet. Having finished his own overtime work, the administrator disappeared down the corridor. Leaving me with a sudden extra task. - [2755-chapter-08](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2755-chapter-08/) - Chapter 8 The level of her communication ability was on an entirely different scale. Even now, thinking back on how quickly the bat-like magical beasts had calmed down felt astonishing. Was a communication ability really something a person could master as naturally as a part of their own body within just a year? Among all - [2754-chapter-07](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2754-chapter-07/) - Chapter 7 “So they came to verify that you really are a Crystal Whale Ecology Investigator officially dispatched from the Imperial Palace. The Magic Tower Lord himself came in person!” For a moment, I just stood there blankly, wondering if I had heard correctly. Then my face heated up instantly. “So you really are a - [2753-chapter-06](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2753-chapter-06/) - Chapter 6 I rubbed my stiff eyes and sat up, running a hand through my hair. It was the dream from that day—the day Kade broke up with me and I fell into the sea. The day I gained my ability as a Communicator. I haven’t had that dream in a long time. Every now - [2752-chapter-05](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2752-chapter-05/) - Chapter 5 Mages did not carry weapons. It was a matter of pride—a symbol of their confidence in magic itself. But Kade had never cared about such things. To him, the method didn’t matter as long as it destroyed whatever stood against him. People said the former Magic Tower Lord had recognized Kade’s talent and - [2751-chapter-04](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2751-chapter-04/) - Chapter 4 “I don’t know what you’re planning to do, but it’s danger—” “The Magic Tower won’t be put at risk over something like this.” “What I mean is…” Perhaps there was enough confidence in my voice to convince him. Kade stopped arguing and stepped back. Before he could change his mind, I quickly picked - [2750-chapter-03](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2750-chapter-03/) - Chapter 3 I snatched the official document and the bag from him. “I did come here for work, but I also have a ton of questions for you.” He had been lost in thought, but he looked at me as if telling me to go ahead. “Where did you bring me?” “My office.” Calling this - [2749-chapter-02](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2749-chapter-02/) - Chapter 2 I stayed frozen with my arm still stretched out. With a troubled sigh, Kay took the bouquet from my hand. “I’m sorry, Vivi.” Without even giving a proper excuse, he delivered words that felt like a final blow, sealing our breakup. Did I really just get dumped…? Yes. I did. We didn’t even - [2748-chapter-01](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2748-chapter-01/) - Chapter 1 A psycho who burns people while smiling. A lunatic who stripped elder mages naked and chased them out. A thug who has never once replied to an imperial invitation. A madman who sent monster corpses as tribute to the imperial family. Just a complete delinquent. All of these were words used to describe - [2747-chapter-22](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2747-chapter-22/) - Chapter 22 “Kyuuung...” Ran flattened his ears and shook his head. “Kyuu...” “You still can’t do it? Even after transforming last - [2746-chapter-21](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2746-chapter-21/) - Chapter 21 “That’s because Silia is a Holy Knight.” “What are you talking about—ugh!” “Holy power and yokai power are opposites, remember? Here, let me pat your back.” Silia retched - [2728-chapter-12](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2728-chapter-12/) - Chapter 12 The forgotten problem of the curse resurfaced, souring her mood. Using excessive holy power worsened the pain. But she also did not want to leave the depressed Ran alone like this. Rubbing between her brows, Silia shook her head. “It’s nothing.” “You really can afford to use more holy power?” “Yes. I - [2743-chapter-20](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2743-chapter-20/) - Chapter 20 “Whiiine...” “Noona! Noona! Hyung! Is Noona dying? Huh? Is she dying?” “Grrr!” Ran smacked Vio—who had transformed into a human—with his paw, telling him to shut his mouth. Then he paced anxiously around Silia, whining. Vio was still too small to carry her. In the middle of the snow-covered field, Silia's eyelids finally - [2742-chapter-18](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2742-chapter-18/) - Chapter 18 After spending so long alone, Vio was filthy from head to toe and severely undernourished. For several days, Silia washed the endless stream of grime from his fur every night and brought him high-quality food. Before long, Vio had completely adapted to life with her. Compared to Ran, who was cautious and suspicious - [2741-chapter-17](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2741-chapter-17/) - Chapter 17 “C-Commander.” Eric called out to Silia with a face that looked ready to faint. “I’m giving you the chance to raise a proud werewolf! Huh?!” The naked child shouted while trying to act tough. His voice was trembling so badly that it would have been better if he had simply cried. “You want - [2739-chapter-27](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2739-chapter-27/) - Chapter 27 To refer to the Crown Prince that way was extremely disrespectful, but I could understand exactly how my sister felt. After all, in her previous life, even after she had lost everything and was left completely alone—right up until the moment she resolved to take revenge—he had never once extended a hand of - [2740-chapter-28](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2740-chapter-28/) - Chapter 28 Who in the world designed this universe so that incidents like these could happen one after another? Even if this place was supposedly the world of the novel Minabel had read, it still made no sense. Especially since this was already the second timeline, a version that hadn't even existed in the original - [2647-chapter-15](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2647-chapter-15/) - Chapter 15 “……” My sister casually brought up such a depressing story before suddenly realizing what she had done. “I didn’t mean to make you sad, Tie.” “I know, Sister. That’s why all of us are trying this hard now, so you’ll never have to wander the outside world alone like that again. Nothing - [2703-chapter-12](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2703-chapter-12/) - Chapter 12 “…Young Master’s…” “…Teddy bear?” The shocked maids’ murmurs gradually faded, and an uncomfortable silence settled over the hallway. Blake silently stared at the two pairs of eyes blinking slowly as if they couldn’t believe what they were seeing, then adjusted his hold on Vivian again. “G-Goodness, Y-Young Master…” The maids gasped - [2738-chapter-21](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2738-chapter-21/) - Chapter 21 Several days passed like that. The satisfaction of catching the spy hiding in the estate thanks to a hint from Ronald only lasted for a short while. “Are you seriously going to do this?” Lately, Blake had become a little more cooperative whenever I approached him, so I thought we had gotten somewhat - [2737-chapter-20](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2737-chapter-20/) - Chapter 20 “I’ll give you three seconds. Answer quickly. Three, two—” “It’s a man!” “Are you sure?” “Huh?” “Are you sure your friend is a man?” “Well... unless that friend suddenly changed genders.” At that, Vivian’s smile deepened. “Wrong. You failed. That confirms it—you’re a spy.” “No, I’m not!” “Yes, you are.” Vivian let out - [2736-chapter-19](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2736-chapter-19/) - Chapter 19 “...This is ridiculous.” After returning from meeting Rain, Blake quietly looked down at the teddy bear sprawled flat on the floor, sleeping with its limbs stretched out. In the process, it had even dragged the blanket down from the bed and wrapped itself up in it. “My... wine!” Well, would you look at - [2727-chapter-11](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2727-chapter-11/) - Chapter 11 But for that to happen, he needed to become an adult. Bigger, stronger. Only then could he protect Silia……. Ran sat staring at the chicken when noise suddenly arose from the living room. Turning his large desert-fox-like ears toward the door, he listened in on the conversation. “Oh dear, I left the dried - [2735-chapter-16](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2735-chapter-16/) - Chapter 16 Moldis looked at her in confusion. Silia hurriedly composed her expression and shook her head. “My apologies.” Tilting his head slightly, Moldis continued. “You must find someone who has a mark on their shoulder. The shape of the mark itself doesn’t matter, but it cannot be ordinary.” “What kind of mark should it - [2734-chapter-15](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2734-chapter-15/) - Chapter 15 “Ran, are you going to eat it?” “Kyeng!” “Here.” Silia took out the roasted pheasant and held it out. Ran devoured the meat in the blink of an eye. Then he started smacking Silia’s calf repeatedly with his front paws, demanding that she hand over the entire glass jar. “You’re impossible.” Silia set - [2733-chapter-14](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2733-chapter-14/) - Chapter 14 Iris’s behavior was something that could never be described as the embodiment of selflessness, love, justice, and judgment. The Saints of previous generations had all been recorded as individuals who possessed both compassion and composure. Iris fell short in every aspect. Honestly, if the phoenix feather had not verified the authenticity of the - [2732-chapter-13](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2732-chapter-13/) - Chapter 13 “Commander! Monsters!” Silia’s lips pressed into a straight line. “It’s earlier than expected.” “It seems they let their guard down because they thought monsters couldn’t possibly appear yet. The damage is reportedly severe. The defensive forces guarding the perimeter have already been wiped out, and—” “Enough. What region?” “Near the Arinald Gorge in - [2731-chapter-95](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2731-chapter-95/) - It had already been three days since they returned to Rodinia. With the master of the manor back, the grand winter estate regained its liveliness. While Vivianne had chosen the path of life at the brink of life and death, Charlotte had stepped onto the opposite path. It was the result of her own choice. - [2730-chapter-94](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2730-chapter-94/) - Vivianne was now able to walk and move around without difficulty. She had regained her strength to the point where there was no noticeable difference from before the accident, and she could eat without issue. It might have seemed like she was simply going about ordinary, uneventful days, but Vivianne’s worries grew deeper with each - [2729-chapter-93](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2729-chapter-93/) - Following the doctor’s recommendation, Vivianne slowly began eating again and taking short walks around her room. It had only been a little over a week, but the aftermath of doing nothing but lying in bed was significant. All her joints had stiffened, and when she took her first step, it felt as if her legs - [2726-chapter-10](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2726-chapter-10/) - Chapter 10 While serving at the garrison, Silia spent every spare moment studying gumiho. “...A young fox yokai gains the ability to transform into the appearance of a human child upon reaching ten years of age, and becomes an adult at twenty years old…” Silia lowered her head so close to the book it was - [2725-chapter-09](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2725-chapter-09/) - Chapter 9 Ran, trembling like a leaf, lowered his head. A large puddle of urine had formed beneath him. The baby fox was only slightly bigger than Silia’s palm. To him, the falling cabinet must have felt like a collapsing mountain. Without showing any reaction, Silia hurriedly searched through a nearby shelf. She pulled out - [2724-chapter-08](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2724-chapter-08/) - Chapter 8 Ran sat quietly, staring into Silia’s eyes before lowering his nose to the jerky and sniffing it cautiously. “How is it? Is it alright?” Ran began chewing the jerky. Silia immediately stood up and headed toward the kitchen. It was an unusually flustered side of her—something she would never show while acting as - [2723-chapter-07](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2723-chapter-07/) - Chapter 7 The atmosphere around the commander was usually so cold and icy that this was the first time Rauner had ever seen her from such close proximity. Her naturally pale skin and golden hair—hair that looked as though it would smell like sunlight if touched—shimmered warmly right before his eyes. And those eyes, widened - [2722-chapter-06](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2722-chapter-06/) - Chapter 6 The fox’s rebelliously narrowed eyes widened as large as lanterns. “How is it? Do you like it?” ‘Ran.’ A forgotten voice resurfaced in its mind. ‘One day, there will be a human who calls you by your name.’ Ran. That was the name the dead heavenly fox—its mother—had personally engraved into the fox’s - [2721-chapter-05](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2721-chapter-05/) - Chapter 05 The more she spoke, the more Silia’s true nature emerged. Her lowered eyes shimmered with a tender light green like newly sprouted leaves, and a faint blush colored her cheeks. Her hair, like threads woven from sunlight, glimmered brilliantly gold. And when paired with her smile, it revealed the kindness hidden within her - [2720-chapter-04](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2720-chapter-04/) - Chapter 4 Silia closed her mouth for a moment, then, unable to withstand Shula’s intense stare, answered quietly. “It should feed on the life force of living animals.” “But I heard humans are a gumiho’s primary prey.” “As long as I’m raising it, it will not eat people.” When Silia drew a firm line with - [2719-chapter-03](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2719-chapter-03/) - Chapter 03 The healing priest, Shula, was a woman everyone avoided because of her bizarre personality. She never cared whether someone outranked her or not when she spoke. Despite possessing exceptional healing abilities, she had effectively been exiled to the Empire’s Holy Knight headquarters because of that sharp tongue. Even Silia was not spared from - [2718-chapter-02](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2718-chapter-02/) - Chapter 2 Silia had always been alone. The moment she was born, she had been abandoned on the outskirts of the Holy Kingdom without even having her umbilical cord cut. She would have become monster feed if a priest had not taken her into an orphanage and saved her life. It was not such a - [2717-chapter-01](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2717-chapter-01/) - Chapter 1 Prologue “You’ve gotten yourself into something seriously wrong!” Silia, who had been standing there blankly, flinched in surprise. The old woman had suddenly become agitated and stepped right up to her. “...Pardon?” “Look at this! It’s a baby fox demon, yet it has nine tails!” The old woman, said to have once been - [2702-chapter-11](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2702-chapter-11/) - Chapter 11 By the time Ronald finished debating whether or not he should ask about it, Blake had already arrived at the reception room and stepped inside. Blake sat down on the dark green velvet sofa inside the white marble reception room and finally spoke. “Do I have any reports today?” At those - [2670-chapter-15](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2670-chapter-15/) - Chapter 15 Never before had I been this happy to see him. The moment I realized he could pull me out of this situation, I ran straight toward Heinox. “Duke-nim!” When I teared up with relief and called out to him in a trembling voice, Heinox flinched for a brief moment before lifting - [2646-chapter-14](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2646-chapter-14/) - Chapter 14 The very next night, as though it had all been planned in advance, private soldiers stormed the ducal estate and set it ablaze. Crimes they had never committed spread throughout the Empire like truth, and before long House Rosena had become traitors accused of plotting rebellion. While the Duke and Duchess were - [2645-chapter-13](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2645-chapter-13/) - Chapter 13 “I’m simply poor at conversation. I’m ashamed of how unprepared I was and apologize for showing such foolishness.” You dragged me into a place like this without a word beforehand—of course I’d be uncomfortable. “Haven’t you and I had quite a lot to discuss?” You’re the one who never contacted me - [2716-chapter-26](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2716-chapter-26/) - Chapter 26 And the situation itself was justified. A young noble lady becoming furious because she couldn’t tolerate a close companion being humiliated. And not just any noble lady, but the precious youngest daughter of an untouchable ducal house. On top of that, the target of the rumors—House Paneschula—had truly spread countless - [2715-chapter-25](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2715-chapter-25/) - Chapter 25 “But I really did make a mistake….” When I timidly argued back, Heinox stared at me for a long moment before speaking. “What exactly do you think you did wrong?” “Umm… calling her Mom…?” Even after my answer, Heinox still wore that unreadable expression. ‘T-Then that wasn’t it?’ “Or… talking carelessly in front - [2714-chapter-24](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2714-chapter-24/) - Chapter 24 A chilling aura swept through the corridor. ‘Ah.’ It wasn’t simply that Heinox couldn’t believe in gods. ‘He hates them.’ He denied the very existence of the gods that had taken his wife away from him. ‘This is… dangerous.’ The Empire had been founded jointly by the first Emperor and the Goddess Artana, - [2713-chapter-23](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2713-chapter-23/) - Chapter 23 ‘It was from the original story.’ Just as the Emperor had said, Miken Hediyom was someone deeply tied to the imperial family. Since his grandfather’s generation, the Hediyom family had served the Emperor. ‘At this point, he’s probably the servant who has remained in the Imperial Palace the longest.’ What mattered wasn’t simply - [2712-chapter-22](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2712-chapter-22/) - Chapter 22 ‘Have I lost my mind?’ Even after saying it myself, I was utterly dumbfounded. ‘Not a fairy or an angel, but a hero? A hero?!’ I must have blurted out nonsense because I panicked. ‘Maybe that book I read recently left too strong an impression on me….’ A few days ago, when I - [2711-chapter-21](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2711-chapter-21/) - Chapter 21 A cold tension lingered throughout the audience chamber. The Emperor could not easily speak in the face of Heinox’s sharper-than-ever demeanor and merely kept rubbing his dry face repeatedly. After a long silence of contemplation, the Emperor finally answered with a weary sigh, as though resigning himself before Heinox’s unwavering resolve. “……Very well. - [2710-chapter-20](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2710-chapter-20/) - Chapter 20 “D-Duke….” I let out a deep sigh at Heinox, who looked at me as if asking what the problem was. ‘Please put me down.’ From the moment we left the carriage until now, while walking through the Imperial Palace, Heinox had continued carrying me in his arms. ‘Can’t he see the expressions on - [2709-chapter-18](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2709-chapter-18/) - Chapter 18 Getting to the servants’ lounge wasn’t difficult at all. Every time I passed through a hallway, I simply hid beside cabinets or statues and secretly listened to the servants talking to figure out where to go. “Hurry up. We should rest while Vice Commander Rain is here. There’s evening roll call afterward.” “You’re - [2708-chapter-17](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2708-chapter-17/) - Chapter 17 The next day, I immediately launched Operation Start. If you thought about it carefully, the fear and terror the servants felt toward Blake was completely understandable. “Honestly, he’s a cold-looking handsome man who barely talks.” And on top of that, rumors were spreading that he had killed an employee at a social club. - [2707-chapter-16](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2707-chapter-16/) - Chapter 16 Life inside the Leblanc estate was far more peaceful than the original novel had described. Perhaps because spring was nearing its end, even the gloomy and eerie mansion was touched by sunlight now. The terrace connected to Blake’s room. Lying on top of the blanket Ronald had specially prepared for me, my short - [2705-chapter-14](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2705-chapter-14/) - Chapter 14 Ronald’s snowy white mustache twitched in confusion. ‘A teddy bear… that was the cause of the commotion recently. But they’re saying it belonged to the Young Master?’ At the time, the maids had caused such chaos while even Crown Prince Edwin was visiting that it had been incredibly difficult to manage. He - [2706-chapter-15](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2706-chapter-15/) - Chapter 15 No matter what had happened on the battlefield, Ronald had decided that the current situation was extremely serious. This was an emergency. Though it was terribly disrespectful to even think such a thing— and though the conclusion was horrifying— ‘Could it be that the Young Master has finally gone mad because of the - [2704-chapter-13](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2704-chapter-13/) - Chapter 13 “What?” “I said I don’t want to help you.” “W-Why… why won’t you help me?!” Watching Vivian’s eyes widen in complete shock at the utterly unexpected rejection, Blake fell briefly into thought. His refusal had been instinctive. And the reasons behind it were fairly logical. No—perhaps this was actually the perfect opportunity. ‘The - [2701-chapter-10](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2701-chapter-10/) - Chapter 10 Was being called special really that embarrassing? What an innocent young man. A mana-replenishment ability was an extremely rare power—something you could hardly find anywhere. Honestly, “special” almost wasn’t enough to describe him. To me, Blake was unbelievable luck. “You’re like a four-leaf clover. A tall, ridiculously handsome four-leaf clover. Because to me, - [2700-chapter-09](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2700-chapter-09/) - Chapter 9 …Just what exactly happened here? I blinked slowly while staring at Blake, who was sound asleep and breathing softly beside me. But my confusion only lasted for a moment. Soon enough, I silently thanked the heavens for blessing me with such a glorious sight. Now that I looked properly, the man before me - [2699-chapter-08](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2699-chapter-08/) - Chapter 8 Emergency. This was a full-blown emergency, Blake! Caught completely off guard by a sudden crisis while my guard was down, I bit my lip hard. “Brother?” ‘What do I do?!’ The instant I heard the door opening, I threw myself flat behind the office desk. Just as I barely managed to hide my - [2698-chapter-07](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2698-chapter-07/) - Chapter 7 “Hm? What did you say, Blake?” Naturally, Blake gently lifted me up from where I was hanging onto his leg. His touch was surprisingly gentle, and I stared at him blankly for a moment. (Of course, I was still doing an absolutely perfect job pretending to be an ordinary stuffed toy.) “This isn’t - [2696-chapter-04](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2696-chapter-04/) - Chapter 5 The deep lethargy and exhaustion caused by his inability to sleep. Those feelings had turned the naturally quiet and blunt Blake into someone utterly indifferent to the world. To the point that even attending the birthday banquet of one of his only two friends, Lea Everett, felt bothersome. There was no - [2697-chapter-06](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2697-chapter-06/) - Chapter 6 “Really? Y-You believe me?” What incredible luck! Deeply moved that Blake believed me so quickly, my round eyes sparkled brightly. “You’ll get exactly one chance. If you turn out to be lying, you won’t escape death.” As if to make it clear he wasn’t joking, a flicker of killing - [2695-chapter-04](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2695-chapter-04/) - Chapter 4 What was I supposed to do now? The reality that I had fallen from being the witch who represented the West to becoming a teddy bear overnight was overwhelming. I had to find a way. A way to escape this ridiculous teddy bear body and return home. But how? No matter how hard - [2694-chapter-03](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2694-chapter-03/) - Chapter 3 I couldn’t move a single finger. My entire body felt limp, and it felt as though there wasn’t a trace of magic left inside me. Which, honestly, made sense. Because my magic really was disappearing. With my weakened body, I slowly looked around. Surprisingly, I quickly figured out where I was. Judging from - [2693-chapter-02](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2693-chapter-02/) - Chapter 2 “…Hmm? This plot feels awfully familiar. It sounds like something straight out of a romance novel!” “I figured you’d like it.” Max smirked as he met my sparkling eyes. Somehow, my heart was racing. My eyes widened with interest at the cliché romance-novel development, and Max continued explaining. - [2692-chapter-01](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2692-chapter-01/) - Chapter 1 A dark dining room filled with suffocating silence. The only sound echoing through the quiet dining hall was the clinking of cutlery—until the doors suddenly swung open. A strikingly handsome man dressed in a black uniform sat down at the lavish dining table. Then, he slowly pulled out the chair - [2667-chapter-14](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2667-chapter-14/) - Chapter 14 “Hah, did you just speak casually to me?” “Do I have to use formal speech? Who are you supposed to be?” Pleury fanned herself dramatically and scoffed. “You’re saying you truly don’t know who I am?” “Yeah. I don’t.” “Hah!” Apparently believing she had been insulted, Pleury began fanning herself even faster. “What - [2644-chapter-11](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2644-chapter-11/) - Chapter 12 To begin with, even in the first timeline my sister had lived through, the Crown Prince’s faction and the Mage Tower had never been on particularly good terms. And yet nobles—people who still carried the name of nobility—continued interacting with the Mage Tower and freely importing magical artifacts. Naturally, someone wanted - [2643-chapter-11](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2643-chapter-11/) - Chapter 11 “……” “I’ll help you. So would you help me as well? Honestly, admitting that this isn’t purely out of goodwill is a little embarrassing.” “Do you perhaps need the power of our family’s mines or business? Though… that isn’t something I can decide on my own.” “All I need is an opportunity to - [2678-chapter-25](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2678-chapter-25/) - Chapter 25 He brought up Aden’s name as naturally as if it were nothing. From this point onward, I needed to stay extremely alert. I had no idea what sort of message he intended to convey. “You must have had pleasant memories.” “In the kingdom that was Her Highness the Imperial Consort’s homeland, there exists - [2677-chapter-24](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2677-chapter-24/) - Chapter 24 After laying out all those theories, they sounded even more ridiculous to me. “So it really does sound absurd, right? Sorry for wasting your time, unni. I was just talking nonsense. No, forget it. Really.” I hurriedly tried to end the conversation. For some reason, I could feel my face heating up. The - [2676-chapter-23](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2676-chapter-23/) - Chapter 23 What benefit would there be in discovering the identity of someone who possessed divine power? If this had still been an era where divine power held overwhelming influence and magic could be freely wielded, I too would naturally have agreed with unni. Even princes who were not born with red imperial eyes could - [2675-chapter-22](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2675-chapter-22/) - Chapter 22 “Consecration…?” “Yes.” Unni nodded carefully. The presence of consecration meant that someone had used divine power. Unlike magic, which was merely subtly looked down upon, divine power was completely taboo. Occasionally, hidden priests or saints were said to bestow blessings in secret, but I had heard it was never an easy thing to - [2674-chapter-19](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2674-chapter-19/) - Chapter 19 ‘Am I seeing this wrong right now?’ Astonishingly, the owner of that laughter was Heinox. As though he’d just heard something genuinely amusing, he was openly laughing out loud. “Why are you laughing…?” I asked in bewilderment, and Heinox replied with lingering amusement still on his face. “Because it’s absurd hearing my daughter - [2673-chapter-18](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2673-chapter-18/) - Chapter 18 “Teacher.” “Yes, Young Lady.” I looked at Dikal with a serious expression and asked, “What happens if a person suddenly changes?” “Suddenly changes?” “Yes.” “In what way?” Since Dikal seemed unsure what I meant, I began explaining the strange events that had happened over the past few days. “So, umm….” It had been - [2672-chapter-17](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2672-chapter-17/) - Chapter 17 Anne grabbed the doorknob with the solemn expression of someone entrusted with an important mission. “Young Lady. I’ll open it on three.” “Mhm.” One, two, three! The moment Anne yanked the door open, Renzard—who had been standing there awkwardly—looked completely startled. His eyes widened as though he couldn’t process the situation, and he - [2671-chapter-16](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2671-chapter-16/) - Chapter 16 “Young Lady, are you awake?” ‘It’s Anne.’ I slowly opened my eyes at the familiar voice. “Mmm, I’m awakeee....” After hearing my answer, Anne entered the room with a warm smile. “You must have been very tired.” “What time is ittt?” “It’s already past twelve, Young Lady.” “Huh? Then why didn’t you wake - [2669-chapter-92](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2669-chapter-92/) - “Let’s go to Preston in the spring,” Edwin whispered sweetly, holding her tightly in his arms. Vivianne giggled as his breath tickled her ear, and she burrowed deeper into his embrace, looking up at him. His face was blurry. It felt like it was hidden behind fog, or perhaps her vision had simply grown too - [2668-chapter-91](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2668-chapter-91/) - By dawn, the heavy snow had eased, and by morning it seemed as if the storm had never happened. In the bright winter sunlight, Rottermond gleamed like a diamond, its beauty at its peak once the snowfall stopped. Susanna could picture how much Vivianne would have loved the view, but she couldn’t enjoy it herself - [2666-chapter-13](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2666-chapter-13/) - Chapter 13 If I had stayed quietly locked inside my room like in the original story, I probably wouldn’t have had to attend this banquet either. They could have continued hiding me behind rumors that I was still sick. ‘But now that things turned out this way, maybe it’s actually fortunate that I came here.’ - [2665-chapter-12](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2665-chapter-12/) - Chapter 12 “Miss, you look so….” Anne seemed deeply moved by the appearance she had worked so hard to create for me. Just looking at those brown eyes brimming with tears made that obvious. “So, so adorable….” I had been half-asleep the entire time Anne was dressing me up, so I had no idea what - [2664-chapter-11](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2664-chapter-11/) - Chapter 11 ‘Let’s go, my ass. I never should’ve come here. Ugh….’ Inside, I was practically crying at the dining table filled with nothing but silence. ‘If nobody’s going to talk, then why even insist we eat together?’ That’s right. Not a single word was being exchanged at this table. Not Heinox, the organizer of - [2663-chapter-10](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2663-chapter-10/) - Chapter 10 ‘Huh? He didn’t call me here because I did something wrong? Then is this about my lessons? But Dikal clearly said I did well last time….’ In fact, during the previous lesson on sentence structure, Dikal had told me that I seemed talented in the Imperial language. Even though I had started learning - [2662-chapter-09](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2662-chapter-09/) - Chapter 9 At that same time, Chedman was at the training grounds. The servants watching him train shook their heads in disbelief, muttering that he was truly relentless, seeing how calmly he continued practicing as though nothing had happened. The reason Chedman liked swords was because swinging one cleared his mind of distracting thoughts. But - [2661-chapter-08](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2661-chapter-08/) - Chapter 8 As soon as Anne arrived at the room, she called out to me in a trembling voice. “Miss… I’m truly sorry.” “For what?” At my calm—almost indifferent—attitude, Anne bit down on her lip. “Earlier… when Young Master said those things… I couldn’t deny them.” “You mean that I killed the Duchess?” When I - [2660-chapter-07](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2660-chapter-07/) - Chapter 7 “As I mentioned last time, I’ll be teaching you the Imperial language. First, we’ll progress through reading words and combining them, and I’ll decide later when to teach pronunciation tones depending on the pace.” While briefly explaining the lesson plan, Dikal opened the bag he had brought. The item he pulled out with - [2659-chapter-06](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2659-chapter-06/) - Chapter 6 “Hellooo, Duke.” As usual, Heinox’s face practically shone while he sat in his office reviewing documents. ‘Isn’t it uncomfortable dressing like that at home?’ Heinox looked as though he were heading to a grand banquet. ‘It’s not even flashy, but…’ There was still something undeniably refined about him. Dark navy pants, a vest - [2658-chapter-05](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2658-chapter-05/) - Chapter 5 “Hyung! Why did you stop me? Everything I said was true!” Unable to blame Chedman directly, Renzard only stomped his feet in frustration. “Our family became a mess because of her!” “Renzard.” At the sound of his name, Renzard lifted his head and flinched at the unfamiliar expression on his brother’s face. Chedman’s - [2657-chapter-04](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2657-chapter-04/) - Chapter 4 ‘What’s with him?’ I couldn’t understand Heinox’s intentions at all. I had expected him to be offended by my boldness and call me insolent, but instead, the corners of his lips curved deeply upward as if he were genuinely amused. “Very well. What is it that you wish to learn?” ‘Yes!’ Thankfully, my - [2656-chapter-03](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2656-chapter-03/) - Chapter 3 Today marks exactly one week since I entered the world of the novel. For the first few days, I stayed tense, worried that Renzard might come back to pick another fight, but thankfully, he never returned. ‘Ah, peace at last.’ I decided to take my time planning for the future and simply enjoy - [2655-chapter-02](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2655-chapter-02/) - Chapter 2 I think I really did die. And after dying, I transmigrated. Into Roxina Tanzeric. Roxina Tanzeric was the villainess of Please Don’t Pluck That Flower, known for her cruel personality. She had originally been the Crown Prince’s fiancée, but after the heroine appeared, their engagement was broken off. Afterward, Roxina committed all sorts - [2654-chapter-01](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2654-chapter-01/) - Chapter 1 0. Beginning Except for the fact that I had been abandoned, I was just an ordinary citizen of South Korea. Ah… maybe that alone already made me far from ordinary. My parents never felt something called “love” for their child as I grew up, and when I turned five, they abandoned me at - [2653-chapter-21](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2653-chapter-21/) - Chapter 21 “Uh……” I had not expected him to ask so directly. If possible, I had wanted to avoid this subject entirely. Before I realized it, I had already averted my eyes. Of course, at first I had suspected it. I wondered whether Vincent was manipulating House Paneschula from behind the scenes and spreading all - [2652-chapter-20](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2652-chapter-20/) - Chapter 20 Hayley calmly cut off Deneb’s words. The invitation she deliberately held in her hand bore the imperial seal, leaving nothing further to verify. “Ah, then it seems I was mistaken.” “Of course, misunderstandings happen. I do live surrounded by quite a number of stories and rumors.” At the pointed remark hidden beneath her - [2651-chapter-19](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2651-chapter-19/) - Chapter 19 “Something everyone already knows?” At the doubtful question, Deneb clicked his tongue and continued speaking. “They say House Delphoi sent the proposal to House Paneschula first, but just as they were desperately trying to ignore and delay it in order to protect the honor of both the knightly house and House Ginevra, the - [2650-chapter-18](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2650-chapter-18/) - Chapter 18 The lady who had been continuing the conversation quietly lowered her voice before she could finish her sentence. It was obvious enough. ‘It seems the Third Prince has finally decided to throw himself into the struggle for the throne as well.’ That was what she wanted to say. And it was not entirely - [2649-chapter-17](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2649-chapter-17/) - Chapter 17 The voice Lucian had used so lightly and arrogantly until moments ago suddenly carried a heavy weight. He looked toward me as though inviting me to play along. Well, there was no helping it. Smiling faintly, I continued the conversation. “Because it benefits them. Their own survival and profit are more valuable to - [2648-chapter-16](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2648-chapter-16/) - Chapter 16 Just when it seemed he had finally fallen silent, he demonstrated an astonishing ability to instantly freeze the atmosphere that had only barely begun to relax. “Ah……” Jade suddenly looked speechless before lowering his head deeply. An expression of wounded pride mixed with the inability to deny it. “Sir Lux.” If you’re not - [2642-chapter-10](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2642-chapter-10/) - Chapter 10 Even fairly prestigious noble houses often ended up bowing repeatedly before them and retreating into seclusion within their own territories. If there was any family they could not touch, it would probably be House Rosena—the one currently keeping its doors closed and refusing to react to anything. After losing his wife to an - [2641-chapter-09](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2641-chapter-09/) - Chapter 9 While receiving a brief explanation about a young lady who had recently become a victim, I was also given more information about the book club. “The regular members are the host, Lillian Paneschula, Hayley Ginevra, April Rency, and me. Then depending on the choices of those three, another two or three people get - [2640-chapter-08](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2640-chapter-08/) - Chapter 8 “Haston.” “Yes, Your Highness. Since you were completely ignoring everything I said, I briefly wondered whether you’d forgotten I existed. But it seems you still remember me after all. Please speak.” “Didn’t you just say what you were thinking out loud a little too easily?” “No, Your Highness merely imagined hearing things.” “Imagined - [2639-chapter-07](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2639-chapter-07/) - Chapter 7 “L-Lotiee…” Apparently, the expression I wore while imagining a peaceful future had been interpreted in some strange way, because Minabel suddenly burst into tears and threw her arms around me from the other side. Without warning, I ended up sandwiched between two women like jam between slices of bread. More than touching, it - [2638-chapter-06](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2638-chapter-06/) - Chapter 6 “Do I really look like someone who came here to harm Your Highness?” “You discovered my identity, so you must have come expecting something in return.” There has to be something worth taking before someone can extort it from you. I swallowed the retort rising to my throat. At this rate, the meeting - [2637-chapter-05](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2637-chapter-05/) - Chapter 5 “Tie.” “Just a moment.” I stopped my sister, who looked ready to step forward and end things quickly, and kept my eyes fixed ahead. “Why? If we don’t hurry, it’ll be time for your medicine.” “That’s not what matters right now.” The movements of the people around the gambling table were strange. Men - [2636-chapter-04](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2636-chapter-04/) - Chapter 4 So my sister really had regressed. After confirming the information I wanted, I grabbed Minabel’s hands and spoke sincerely. “Bell, I don’t want to run away from this place.” Anyone would hate losing the home they belonged to. And more than anything, I had no desire to go somewhere new, meet new people, - [2635-chapter-03](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2635-chapter-03/) - Chapter 3 I think I’ve just learned another truth I never wanted to know. It was only because his hair color looked vaguely similar to mine that my gaze drifted toward him naturally. And honestly, wasn’t this an even greater revelation than my sister having regressed, or my future self dying young, or Minabel being - [2634-chapter-02](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2634-chapter-02/) - Chapter 2 After the brief commotion, a cautious voice spoke up. “Rphina unni is kind of… a siscon, isn’t she? Of course, I agree that we need to protect you too. Lottie is delicate.” “‘Siscon’? And every time you call her ‘Rphina,’ it sounds strange.” “So you don’t know what a siscon is. It means - [2633-chapter-01](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2633-chapter-01/) - Chapter 1 A leisurely afternoon. The perfect time to spend an ordinary, peaceful day. I too was savoring the rich aroma of rooibos tea, said to help with sleep, and had just been about to take a sip. “Tie.” “Ghk—” A cold voice shattered the peace. “I think you’ve forgotten what you’re supposed to do - [2632-chapter-90](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2632-chapter-90/) - The Rottermond Castle was thrown into chaos when the servants Edwin had sent out returned, alongside those who had been searching the back of the manor. “I clearly saw Miss Aveline and Miss Windler heading up the forest path together earlier this afternoon.” One maid, having just learned that the cause of all the uproar - [2631-chapter-89](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2631-chapter-89/) - “We found her! We found Miss Windler!” The news was like rain ending a drought. Gideon, who had been frantically searching the manor, raced over at the servant's echoing shout. The place the servants led him to was none other than the stables. The horses, made skittish by the sudden crowd of people holding lanterns - [2630-epilogue](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2630-epilogue/) - Epilogue It had taken a long time. Cha Yoon, dressed in his black formal suit, gave himself one last inspection, savoring the feeling. The moment Woori accepted his proposal still replayed vividly in his mind, as if it had happened just yesterday. Thinking about that day still made his heart race and… well, everyone knows. - [2629-side-story-6](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2629-side-story-6/) - Side Story 6. My body stiffened. Cha Yoon gently rubbed my tense stomach as he continued speaking. “They found half of the broken boat, and a body was tied to the structure, so they were able to identify it. They compared the teeth. It’s definitely Lee Hae-seong. I checked several times myself.” I had - [2628-side-story-5](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2628-side-story-5/) - Side Story 5. Beep beep, beep beep... The alarm went off again, and Cha Yoon angrily turned it off. She, who was pinned under him, was panting, her face completely flushed. Cha Yoon licked the sweat from her neck with his tongue. In contrast to his soft lips, his bottom thrust strongly with a thump, - [2627-side-story-4](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2627-side-story-4/) - Side Story 4. “CEO Cha. I’ll say it again. Don’t even think about trying that cremation-proposal stunt.” “Then what the hell am I supposed to do?” “Make it so she can’t wriggle out of it. That’s what you’re best at, isn’t it? Bleeding people dry.” Cha Yoon slumped deeper into the seat. Just then, - [2626-side-story-3](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2626-side-story-3/) - Side Story 3. “Should I have it scrapped?” From the rearview mirror, Park Jong-hoo cautiously studied Cha Yoon’s expression as he spoke. Cha Yoon, who had been staring at his tablet, hesitated for a moment, then shook his head. A sudden headache made him rub his temples before tossing the tablet aside. On the screen - [2625-side-story-2](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2625-side-story-2/) - Side Story 2. “I’ll park the car and come later, so you go on ahead.” Thankfully, we arrived at the competition venue without being late. But with all the participants, journalists, and spectators from various countries, there weren’t many parking spaces left. Suho hopped out of the car, and I grabbed one of the bags. - [2624-side-story-1](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2624-side-story-1/) - Side Story 1. Beep beep, beep beep. In the complete darkness with no light, my phone screen lit up. A veiny hand urgently fumbled for the phone and turned off the alarm. "Uh, uhm, no. Stop. Ugh…." At my sobbing, Cha Yoon let out a low curse and thrust his hips forward with force. - [2623-chapter-99](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2623-chapter-99/) - Chapter 99. One of his arms was in a cast. I was told he had surgery because of a broken bone, but the memory of it was completely gone. So this is what it feels like not to remember. For a brief moment, I could understand the feelings Jay and Cha Yoon must have gone - [2622-chapter-98](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2622-chapter-98/) - Chapter 98. “Noona… Hyung is here.” Suho hesitated, pulling his face away from the window as he spoke. I pretended not to hear and didn’t glance in his direction. “He’s been here since yesterday.” “….” “What if something happens to him?” I tried to ignore the presence waiting for me, but finally let out a - [2621-chapter-97](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2621-chapter-97/) - Chapter 97. “But when I was with you, it wasn’t like that.” “…….” “There was the sea right in front of me, and I couldn’t even think about disliking it.” “Why? Because you hate me more than the sea?” “…You know that’s not true.” “How would I know? You’re always getting mad at me.” I - [2620-chapter-96](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2620-chapter-96/) - Chapter 96. Cha Yoon spoke rather curtly without meeting my eyes. I turned my gaze toward the wide glass window. Heavy rain poured down in streaks across the open landscape. Where on earth was he planning to go in this downpour? And soaking wet like that. “Let’s just stay here. You’re already drenched…” “Don’t worry - [2619-chapter-95](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2619-chapter-95/) - Chapter 95. “Both of you need to get along and not fight.” Suho said firmly, slinging his bag over his shoulder as he spoke. Behind him, his friend’s parents were waiting. Even though Suho had warned me several times, his brow remained furrowed with concern, like a mother worried about leaving her children home alone. - [2618-chapter-94](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2618-chapter-94/) - Chapter 94. Cha Yoon, who used to sneak into my house every night like he was infiltrating enemy lines, now roamed around openly without a hint of hesitation. Before I knew it, a pile of his clothes had started to build up in one corner of my wardrobe. Not only that, but two pillows had - [2617-chapter-93](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2617-chapter-93/) - Chapter 93. I received the crumpled bills from Suho’s little blue coin purse with both hands. What an embarrassment. I felt so ashamed. But just before paying, I luckily found my own wallet, which I had shoved into my coat and forgotten to take out. Suho’s allowance money could safely return to its rightful owner. - [2616-chapter-92](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2616-chapter-92/) - Chapter 92. Whenever Suho fell asleep, Cha Yoon would show up like a ghost and knock on my door. The timing was so uncanny, I almost suspected he was spying on us from somewhere. No matter how hard I tried to block that sly fox from slipping into the house, it was useless. “My side - [2615-chapter-91](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2615-chapter-91/) - Chapter 91. I kept hearing the sound of water pouring for a long time. Ha… what a mess in the middle of the night. I was still dazed. I’d been thinking of Cha Yoon unusually often today, but I never imagined he’d appear right in front of me. All my effort ignoring his calls was - [2614-chapter-90](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2614-chapter-90/) - Chapter 90. The very first thing I did was clean up the trash inside and outside the house. From damp, stinking blankets to broken chairs, beer cans carelessly tossed over the fence, bricks, and cigarette butts. I sorted everything by size and stacked them neatly. For two full days and nights, I went back and - [2613-chapter-89](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2613-chapter-89/) - Chapter 89. “……” His whole body was growing cold. He hadn’t realized it while running here, but now the rain soaking his skin felt bitterly cold. Not just the chill of an autumn drizzle, but a pain that seemed to freeze his bones and insides solid. A raindrop hanging from the tip of Cha Yoon’s - [2612-chapter-88](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2612-chapter-88/) - Edwin, who had been cross-checking the territory's tax ledger, finished his work earlier than expected, thanks to Susanna’s meticulous management, which left little room for error. Though it was a task he performed every year, this year’s records were particularly flawless. He opened his pocket watch, checked the time, and gazed out the window at - [2611-chapter-87](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2611-chapter-87/) - As instructed the day before, the forest path had been cleared well enough to walk without difficulty. The small clearing along the trail, lightly blanketed in snow, looked less like the aftermath of a blizzard and more like a painting of a beautiful snowfall. Vivianne, unable to bear the weight of the snowball that had - [2610-chapter-86](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2610-chapter-86/) - The railway between Farrington and Rottermond had opened. It was because of this train line that Susanna felt comfortable enough to write a letter inviting Gideon to visit Charlotte, who had moved to Rottermond in preparation for her wedding. However, Gideon, excited by the thought of seeing Charlotte, hadn’t anticipated what awaited him. Though the - [2609-chapter-85](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2609-chapter-85/) - Charlotte dangled from the window ledge, roughly gauging how much snow had piled up. Since the evening they’d arrived in Rottermond, the snow had steadily accumulated, blanketing the land in a pure white glow. Even without the sun, it was so bright it made her squint. Plenty enough. I can build a - [2608-chapter-84](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2608-chapter-84/) - Rottermond, which she had visited at the end of summer, was already in winter. The moment she stepped down from the carriage, a strangely warm air lingered around her. Looking up, she saw that the sky was filled with thick, dark clouds. It looked like it would snow sometime today. Susanna greeted Edwin with open - [2607-chapter-83](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2607-chapter-83/) - Winter in Rodinia was brutally harsh. When the sharp winds blew, the cold pierced to the bone. Fortunately, on windless days, the chill wasn’t severe enough to be called brutal. The real problem was the wind. Today, Rodinia’s wind danced like a blade, freezing the earth in its wake. The Duke’s residence, too, fell into - [2606-chapter-82](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2606-chapter-82/) - The colorful leaves quickly dried up and fell easily, even with the gentlest breeze. Winter was already approaching. The scorching sunlight in the blue sky was subdued by the cold, casting a cool light. Now, unless a fire was lit, the chill that seeped through the windows would bite to the bone. Vivianne and Sophie - [2605-chapter-81](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2605-chapter-81/) - Vivianne's eyes filled with tears. She gripped the cheeks of the fully grown man, her gaze filled with tender concern and frustration as she scrutinized his face. She was a heartless woman who didn’t consider Evans’ position at all—his ears flushed red as he trembled under her stare. Edwin watched the scene with great amusement. “So, - [2604-chapter-80](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2604-chapter-80/) - After skimming through all the letters that had arrived at the manor, Edwin picked one from the pile and threw it into the flickering flames. The letter, erased from existence among the firewood, quickly crumbled into a handful of ash. The afternoon sunlight vanished like the chilly autumn wind. A cool breeze stirred the dry - [2603-chapter-79](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2603-chapter-79/) - Vivianne stood in front of the door, smoothing her skirt and adjusting the lace one last time before knocking. When she opened the door and stepped inside, the brightly lit lamp greeted her. The servant tending the fireplace left the bedroom at Edwin’s command. Seated at the table with a book in hand, Edwin looked up at - [2602-chapter-88](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2602-chapter-88/) - Chapter 88. The muffled sobs sounded pitiful. Even as Cha Yoon felt his chest tighten at the sound of quiet weeping spreading through the room, he couldn’t fully sympathize with her grief. After all, the surgery had been a success. Despite his young age, Suho had endured a grueling seven-hour operation, and the artificial heart - [2601-chapter-87](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2601-chapter-87/) - Chapter 87. He can’t stand bothersome things. If something gets on his nerves, he gets rid of it right away. That's always been his way. Whether it was an object or a person, he never held onto anything. Cha Yoon quietly observed the small woman chattering in front of him. “You stabbed your spear all - [2600-chapter-86](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2600-chapter-86/) - Chapter 86. The woman showed no signs of giving up. She was determined to see Cha Yoon. “Can’t I at least see his face for a moment? How is he? He lost so much blood that day… Is he really okay? I think I need to check with my own eyes. Haah… then at least, - [2599-chapter-85](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2599-chapter-85/) - Chapter 85. Cha Seonghwan’s escape hadn’t been unexpected, but hearing that he had actually tucked his tail and gone into hiding irritated him all the same. A fool who blundered into trouble without the guts or the brains to handle it. The thought that he was related to such a man by blood made his - [2598-chapter-84](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2598-chapter-84/) - Chapter 84. Sharp eyes fixed on me. The slightly upturned corners of his gaze were cutting. “Don’t you ever say that bastard’s name in front of me again.” His voice fell like a final warning, and then his desperate lips locked onto mine. Cha Yoon rolled his body over mine, pressing me down completely. His - [2597-chapter-83](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2597-chapter-83/) - Chapter 83. The arms that had been holding me gently loosened. I stumbled slightly as I slipped out of his embrace. It was a relief that there was still somewhere left for me to wash, but Cha Yoon’s bathroom was a little… no, very uncomfortable. If anything, the bathroom was a more private space than - [2596-chapter-82](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2596-chapter-82/) - Chapter 82. Was there no way to let Jay’s spirit possess Cha Yoon’s body? I found myself drifting into such absurd fantasies. That was how desperately I wanted to see Jay. I wasn’t asking for him to live inside Cha Yoon’s body forever. Just for a brief moment, so I could meet his eyes and - [2595-chapter-81](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2595-chapter-81/) - Chapter 81. It didn’t even take thirty minutes to cut my hair. When I stepped out of the salon, I couldn’t believe how light my head felt. How had I lived all this time carrying something that heavy? I hadn’t realized it while I was growing it out, but now that it was cropped short, - [2594-chapter-76](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2594-chapter-76/) - "Fine, Yan Xiaopang, I'll remember you." At this moment, Liu Zhiwen suddenly felt he had heard the name "Xiaopang" somewhere before! But he didn't dwell on it and said coldly, "If you pester Zhiyu again, I'll make you regret it!" He opened his phone and took a picture of the Santana's license plate. This guy - [2593-chapter-75](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2593-chapter-75/) - Inside the elevator, Liu Zhiwen's gaze scrutinized Song Zhiyu, finding her more stunning the longer he looked. Back when Zhang Liqing was a university student, she was also very pretty, but compared to Song Zhiyu, she was immediately seen as a vulgar, yellow-faced woman. Thinking about how the other party actually tried to force him - [2592-chapter-74](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2592-chapter-74/) - Although he slept very late, by seven-thirty the next morning, Su Wuji had already completed his morning workout. Xiao Yinlei knocked on the door and brought breakfast in. Everyone thought Su Wuji was a scumbag who messed around all day, but only Xiao Yinlei knew that her boss was often incredibly diligent, except when it - [2588-chapter-73](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2588-chapter-73/) - Staring at the letter stuffed in the cat bed, Xu Jiayan felt a chill run through her entire body. She couldn't imagine how she had been exposed. Not even the Logistician, her single-line contact, knew her specific residence! Xu Jiayan carefully checked the room. Aside from the missing kitten, this S-Class Investigator, Ritson, hadn't disturbed - [2587-chapter-72](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2587-chapter-72/) - Just as Su Wuji was about to call people over to play mahjong, there was a knock on the door. "Come in," Su Wuji said. Those who could reach this floor and knock on this door were let in by Xiao Yinlei, making them one hundred percent safe. The door opened, and a heavy burden - [2586-chapter-71](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2586-chapter-71/) - Seeing this scene, Bai Xuyang drew in a sharp breath of cold air! Qin Guilin's face instantly went pale! He couldn't help but stumble backward several steps! Bai Xuyang gritted his teeth. "Damn it, they actually planted a bomb on my car!" If he had driven this car back to the Capital, he would surely - [2585-chapter-70](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2585-chapter-70/) - Bai Xuyang had never seen Jiang Wanxing like this. Just waking up, short hair tousled, that fresh beauty was like an early autumn morning. He was almost dumbfounded looking at her. Beside her, Mu Qianyu, wearing a nightgown, had a different charm despite a different temperament from Jiang Wanxing. Like the rising sun in midsummer, - [2584-chapter-69](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2584-chapter-69/) - "Jiang Wanxing, is your brain broken?" The Chief said irritably, "How could I be the Shadow?" Jiang Wanxing: "Then it's me?" The Chief was about to go crazy. "How could it be you?" Jiang Wanxing's tone was full of innocence. "Chief, only the two of us know this secret. If it's not you, then it - [2583-chapter-68](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2583-chapter-68/) - "Su Wuji!" Jiang Wanxing glared at the man beside her, gritting her teeth. "You have so many rooms in this villa; why are you making me sleep on the sofa?" "You're the one who wanted to sleep on the sofa..." Su Wuji smiled awkwardly. "I originally wanted you to leave quickly..." You might as well - [2582-chapter-67](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2582-chapter-67/) - Su Wuji truly hadn't expected Jiang Wanxing to just appear in front of him like this! "You... what are you doing here?" Su Wuji immediately stood up, raised his white bear paws, and pointed at Jiang Wanxing, his speech becoming much more stuttered. What is going on tonight? One after another? Couldn't you guys stagger - [2559-chapter-66](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2559-chapter-66/) - Upon seeing Mu Qianyu, Park Yanxi was clearly very surprised. She immediately knocked Su Wuji's finger away from her chin, put on her slippers, and ran to open the door. "Qianyu, what are you doing here?" she asked, seemingly pleasantly surprised. Officer Park's face was slightly warm, and her earlobes were red; she truly looked - [2558-chapter-65](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2558-chapter-65/) - The video was taken from a nearby municipal surveillance camera, with very clear audio. It was a mystery how Li Qingchen had gotten his hands on it. "Mu Qianyu is my good friend. If you want to bully her, I won't allow it." "As long as you stop troubling her, I am willing to apologize - [2557-chapter-64](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2557-chapter-64/) - Hearing Bai Xuyang's declaration, Li Hongcheng seemed to breathe a sigh of relief and smiled. "Good. The Bai family has no cowards." Bai Xuyang replied, "I'm still far inferior to my father." Li Hongcheng glanced at Qin Guilin, who was still acting lovesick, and said, "Interacting more with Wuji won't hurt you. Try to avoid - [2469-chapter-63](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2469-chapter-63/) - "Yanxi, you're acting a bit too obviously," Su Wuji said lazily from the back seat. His clothes were still dripping water. Actually, most of the police officers weren't aware of the close relationship between Su Wuji and Park Yanxi. At the Hubin Branch, apart from Li Hongcheng, many officers in Linzhou still thought Su Wuji - [2468-chapter-62](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2468-chapter-62/) - Bai Xuyang watched Cheng Chong kowtow to Su Wuji with complicated eyes, but he said nothing more. He waded into the water again because Xiao Pang had swum about ten meters from the shore. "Quick, swim over here, grab my hand!" Bai Xuyang shouted. However, Xiao Pang ignored him. Carrying the truck driver, he stood - [2467-chapter-61](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2467-chapter-61/) - The severely deformed Mercedes sedan was pressed under the heavy truck, slowly sinking into the river, beyond rescue. This river was a tributary of the Lin'an River, at least a dozen meters deep. Bai Xuyang couldn't snap out of his daze. Qin Guilin, pressed beneath him, was pale with fright. If the two of them - [2591-chapter-78](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2591-chapter-78/) - Charlotte’s footsteps quickened as she crossed the hallway. Her pale complexion gave the impression that she was enduring something. Hurriedly returning to her room, Charlotte locked the door. At that moment, a wave of nausea surged in. A maid, approaching with concern, immediately turned back to fetch a bucket. A wrought-iron bucket glinted dimly in her bleary - [2590-chapter-77](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2590-chapter-77/) - It was a sunny autumn afternoon like any other. As a rather chilly wind swept in, the letter paper on the desk fluttered. As Sophie closed the window, Vivianne gave her a grateful glance. Refocusing on her letter, Vivianne adjusted her grip on the pen. A letter had arrived—for the first time in a while—from - [2589-chapter-76](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2589-chapter-76/) - Edwin’s coat hung loosely around Vivianne’s ankles. At some point, the hand holding her arm let go, and another gently pulled the coat collar up under her chin. Every time his fingers brushed her skin, she shivered. The anger in Vivianne’s eyes quickly melted away. She turned her head from side to side, inspecting the - [2581-chapter-92](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2581-chapter-92/) - 『 There’s something off about Elise. It seems like Gilbert is hiding something from me, too.』 Since Elizabeth couldn’t stay with her daughter until she turned six, she understood why Elise was shy and didn’t feel comfortable with her. ⋙“Then I’ll go in.”⋘ But the moment Elise spoke those words, Elizabeth was indescribably shocked. She - [2580-chapter-91](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2580-chapter-91/) - Walter was well aware that asking for a handkerchief embroidered with two lilies, which is only given to men about to be married when they compete, would cause a stir in Edith’s thoughts. However, he was a man with the guts and shamelessness to state even the most bombshell declarations as if they were no - [2579-chapter-90](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2579-chapter-90/) - Franz, as usual, took his seat in his study to read the newspaper. Although he typically brushed off most things without much excitement, these past few days, every time he read the newspaper, he felt a sense of satisfaction. [Elizabeth Fortrion and the Death of the Viscount] [Who Swung the Sword that Killed Viscount Fortrion?] - [2578-chapter-89](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2578-chapter-89/) - “Walter. It looks like someone sent you a gift,” Franz said during a long-awaited dinner. Even though she knew it wasn’t her gift, Edith couldn’t help but prick up her ears. ╭══════ Wishing the Little Duke of Lexion all the best. ══════╯ ╭══════ God bless the Little Duke’s sword. ══════╯ She knew that recently, the - [2577-chapter-88](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2577-chapter-88/) - Walter’s decision to participate was not just to restrain the Imperial Consort Dowager’s faction; he had another intention. ⋙“Most of the knights participating in the tournament are swordsmen who have unlocked their auras or awakened magical powers. It’s a tournament where participants are permitted to unleash their full power, so the heads of the family - [2576-chapter-87](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2576-chapter-87/) - Isabelle quenched her thirst with wine to ease her mind before speaking. “I think Elizabeth has a child.” “What?” When something unexpected was revealed, Edith asked again without realizing it. “But there weren’t any children in Fortrion Manor?” Most servants with families, who were owed overdue wages, ran away during the night, so Edith had never - [2575-chapter-86](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2575-chapter-86/) - The banquet hosted by the Duke of Lexion and his daughters was so luxurious that other noble families couldn’t even hope to match it. Moreover, this time, it was Franz Lexion himself who sent the invitations, and the faces of those who filled the banquet hall were filled with a certain pride. “They just held - [2574-chapter-85](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2574-chapter-85/) - Franz sent invitations to prominent noble families. When the people gathered at a small tea time in the capital saw that the invitations had been sent in the name of the Duke of Lexion, not his three daughters, they were initially bewildered. However, after reading the invitation, people couldn’t keep their mouths shut. “The official - [2573-chapter-84](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2573-chapter-84/) - On the day Helen stood in the square as the new Lord of Fortrion, Walter acted as if he were trying to escape, luring the assassins who were attacking him to a deserted location. Walter thought it wouldn’t be a good idea to reveal to the people in the square that he possessed magical powers, - [2572-chapter-75](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2572-chapter-75/) - A sharp ray of sunlight pierced through the cool autumn air, stinging Edwin's eyes. Beyond the wide-open window, in the clearly visible maze garden, a woman with golden hair as bright as the sun was navigating the paths. Edwin took a sip of his bitter coffee and then closed the newspaper. Sophie had informed him - [2571-chapter-80](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2571-chapter-80/) - Chapter 80. I don’t know how I even made it to the hospital. From the moment I got the call, a ringing filled my ears and my vision was nothing but a blur. It felt as though I’d been struck on the head with something heavy. An overwhelming shock clung to me all the way - [2570-chapter-79](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2570-chapter-79/) - Chapter 79. The sudden, hot flesh that plunged into me was hot. I wanted to only feel an uncomfortable foreign sensation, but my body, weak to temptation, was already anticipating the ecstasy it had experienced several times before. My wet eyelashes trembled. Cha Yoon let out a heavy breath and hugged me tightly. As he - [2569-chapter-78](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2569-chapter-78/) - Chapter 78. His voice, deeper than usual from excitement, brushed against my lips. I was momentarily taken aback by his words, which referred to Jay as "another man." Then, who am I having sex with right now? Just as the question formed in my mind, he pushed his cock in a little more. The overwhelming, - [2568-chapter-77](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2568-chapter-77/) - Chapter 77. “Suho, me, and you… Ugh, we said the three of us would live together. You weren’t joking. When you came back… huff, if I’m not there… what are you doing, really?” Jay, who had been slouched against the back of the sofa, leaned forward toward the table. Even through my blurred vision from - [2567-chapter-76](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2567-chapter-76/) - Chapter 76. “Jay!” He strode ahead with long legs. While I glanced at my phone to check the next schedule, he had already gotten far ahead. I ran quickly and grabbed the edge of his coat. “You didn’t eat a single bite, did you?” “Don’t worry about it. Just tell me what’s next.” “How can - [2566-chapter-75](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2566-chapter-75/) - Chapter 75. “I’m counting on you to take good care of Suho. And be sure to tell him I said I’ll bring a gift on Sunday. Yes, yes, thank you.” I ended the brief call with Park Jong-hoo. Even after he told me not to worry, my mind wasn’t at ease. “He’s going to cry - [2565-chapter-74](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2565-chapter-74/) - Chapter 74. I took the phone from my ear and checked the caller ID. It was Jay. He said he was coming to pick me up. The Jay who had lost all memories from the island didn’t strike me as the kind of person who would say something so kind. —Sunwoo-ri. “Are you hurt? Drunk? - [2564-chapter-73](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2564-chapter-73/) - Chapter 73. “Ah….” I pressed a hand over my mouth, unable to believe what I was seeing. Five… whole years older? Something had clearly gone horribly wrong here. Damn it, this is exactly why you’re not supposed to blindly trust information you find online. Even lies can be boring and dangerous. My heart was racing! - [2563-chapter-72](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2563-chapter-72/) - Chapter 72. I had no choice but to get into the passenger seat, confronted by his unyielding stubbornness. Click. Jay closed the door and circled around the hood to slide into the driver’s seat. The engine purred smoothly as it started. I stared at the dim, gloomy underground parking lot, my thoughts in turmoil. Was - [2562-chapter-71](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2562-chapter-71/) - Chapter 71. “.....” A cold sweat dripped from beneath my temple. Why was it so unsettlingly silent? I wanted to peek at Park Jong-hoo’s reaction, but I didn’t have the courage to risk making eye contact. “Hmm…” Jay tensed his arm and pulled me toward him. My body, lying upright, twisted sharply like a paper - [2561-chapter-74](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2561-chapter-74/) - Edwin carried Vivianne—shivering and drenched—back to the manor. After entrusting her limp, corpse-like body to Sophie, he instructed her to give Vivianne a warm bath. Sophie, pale as a sheet, looked on the verge of tears as if she were witnessing someone about to die. Edwin, too, returned to his room and submerged himself in - [2560-chapter-73](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2560-chapter-73/) - Vivianne, seated across from Edwin as he rowed, gazed down at the current’s water. Perhaps it was because she was so used to disturbing the lake’s surface that the sensation of floating without getting wet felt strange. Before long, the boat that had left the dock found itself adrift in the center of the lake. - [2556-chapter-83](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2556-chapter-83/) - 『 Wow, I’ve never seen a carriage like this before.』 Vivian couldn’t believe she was sitting in the Lexion’s luxurious and comfortable carriage. Having worked at the Fortrion manor for a long time, she had grown accustomed to seeing luxurious items, which were unusual for commoners. However, Lexion’s grandeur was truly on a different level. When - [2555-chapter-82](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2555-chapter-82/) - A few days later, the manor was bustling with farewells. “Thank you so much, Little Duke of Lexion. I’ll send you a letter once we arrive.” Before leaving the capital’s Fortrion Manor, Helen jokingly said goodbye to Walter. Since it would soon become known to everyone, Walter had already revealed his true identity. 『 I thought Walter - [2554-chapter-81](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2554-chapter-81/) - “What does it matter what the lie was about when you already know you’re Isaac?” Edith calmly entered her room as if nothing had happened. But Walter had no intention of letting her escape. 『 Seeing her calm reaction, she must have known all along.』 It wasn’t difficult for him to guess when she realized his - [2553-chapter-80](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2553-chapter-80/) - When Edith first heard that Walter had gone out, she was sure that he had gone to the Duchy of Lexion. “He said he was going to see a house where M’lady could be treated more comfortably, so don’t worry too much. You know he’s a strong guy, right?” “I know Walter is strong. I - [2552-chapter-115](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2552-chapter-115/) - The Lathilde Boutique, which I was visiting after a long time, was still a space where the owner’s sincerity stood out. At the entrance of the shop, where every minor detail showed signs of personal care, Lathilde greeted me with a bright smile. “Hello, my lady.” Demian, who followed me inside, corrected her with - [2551-chapter-114](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2551-chapter-114/) - When I returned home, Iswen was waiting for me at the entrance of the mansion. Iswen, who had been standing as still as a statue, approached the moment the carriage stopped. His golden gaze briefly brushed over the crest engraved on the exterior of the carriage. Since riding a horse in a dress was - [2550-chapter-113](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2550-chapter-113/) - Beatrice was positive about my proposal, but she did not fully agree to it. “Every deal requires time for review. I will contact you again, so you may withdraw for today.” Since I didn't expect her to agree instantly, it was exactly as I had anticipated. As long as there were no major issues, - [2549-chapter-112](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2549-chapter-112/) - At first, I thought I was seeing things. Sioden Raslet was not the kind of person one would expect to run into in the palace hallway leading to the audience chamber. However, when the man turned his head upon hearing my voice, I realized that the person before me was no illusion. At the same - [2548-chapter-111](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2548-chapter-111/) - “Bring me Mother’s jewelry.” Even though I demanded it abruptly the moment I returned from meeting Iswen, Apple brought what I asked for without a word of complaint. The red gemstone I had once sold to raise cash was tucked safely inside the velvet lining. It was there because Sioden had recovered it and - [2547-chapter-110](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2547-chapter-110/) - Inside a forest densely packed with trees, Iswen Rowen limped up the hill. In the distance, he could see a small cabin and his knights guarding the perimeter. He had already received a report that only a single corpse remained inside. However, to conduct a proper investigation, he had to examine the situation with - [2546-chapter-109](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2546-chapter-109/) - One day, his superior appeared at the door of the medical office and announced, “We are going up to the capital.” Luke, who had been organizing medical records—a task he had postponed due to other work—looked up. The man leaning against the doorway was staring at him with a calm face. However, an expression - [2545-chapter-108](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2545-chapter-108/) - “Live my own life?” The more I heard Iswen’s words, the more absurd they became. “Everything I am choosing right now is also my life!” Yes, that was right. Back in Raslet, I had clung to the ship bound for Emerta as if it were the final destination of my life. I believed that - [2544-chapter-107](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2544-chapter-107/) - Demian spoke in a trembling voice. “It wasn't because you wanted to be cruel to us either, was it, Brother?” A single tear rolled down the boy's cheek, past where his eye patch ended. Seeing that, I found myself instinctively gritting my teeth. Iswen gripped the head of his cane with force. Demian was - [2543-chapter-106](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2543-chapter-106/) - A few days after being caught rummaging through Iswen’s study, Demian called me out to the garden. It was the same spot where we had parted ways after he helped me escape the study previously. Demian, who had been standing under a flowering tree, strode toward me the moment he spotted me. “I found - [2542-chapter-105](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2542-chapter-105/) - A cold, snowy mountain where even one's breath felt as if it might freeze. Merwen walked silently across the snow-covered field. The snow, which had piled up in layers over countless years, was crushed beneath the woman’s small feet. These marks would be hidden within a few hours by the snow that would surely - [2541-chapter-104](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2541-chapter-104/) - “Huh? Oh, yeah.” Demian answered nonchalantly. Furrowing his brow further, Iswen spoke. “If I could have fired your etiquette teacher, I would have done so gladly.” However, their etiquette teacher had already quit a long time ago. It was because both of them had grown too old to receive etiquette training. Demian shrugged his - [2540-chapter-103](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2540-chapter-103/) - It wasn't as if he was asking because he truly didn't understand the situation. To anyone watching, I currently looked exactly like someone who had snuck into Iswen’s office. Even as I struggled to find my voice, my mind was racing. What could I possibly say to make this look even slightly less suspicious? - [2539-chapter-102](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2539-chapter-102/) - “Your Majesty, Duke Rowen has arrived.” When the Chief Chamberlain announced this, Beatrice was looking up at the ceiling mural of the audience chamber. The mural, painstakingly painted by the most skilled artist of the era, depicted the origin of the ancient magic protecting the entire chamber. Its name was as magnificent as the - [2538-chapter-101](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2538-chapter-101/) - Questions clearly born from long-endured suppression are filled with resentment. Following behind him with quick steps, his younger sibling asked: “Do you remember cursing my marriage?” Steadfastly putting one foot in front of the other, Iswen asked himself in return. ‘Do I remember cursing the marriage?’ ‘How could I have forgotten?’ The moment he - [2537-chapter-72](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2537-chapter-72/) - After repairing the carriage, they set off straight for Rodinia. Charlotte looked at the distant Rottermond Castle, feeling the weight in her chest slowly ease. As they crossed the final drawbridge, she turned from the window, a bit relieved. Her eyes naturally settled on Edwin across from her. There was nothing unusual anymore about him - [2536-chapter-71](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2536-chapter-71/) - Charlotte hurried down the stairs with joy in her steps. She had been told that Edwin and Vivianne wouldn’t be back from the capital until early the next morning, but when she heard late that evening that they had returned sooner than expected, she couldn’t hide her excitement. While their well-being mattered most, the thought - [2535-chapter-100](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2535-chapter-100/) - The next day, as soon as morning broke, I concluded. “I have to go to the family cemetery.” Apple, who was braiding my hair in the way she did best, asked, “The cemetery?” “Yes, my mother’s tomb should be there.” “Then we might be able to confirm her full name on the tombstone.” I - [2534-chapter-99](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2534-chapter-99/) - The commander's party arrived at Ethel Castle. Rhys, who had been guarding the scene until the commander's arrival, hurried towards him. The commander dismounted his horse and strode toward the site, asking. “What are the details?” The situation had been assessed and documented in a report long ago. Rhys handed it to the commander. - [2533-chapter-98](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2533-chapter-98/) - “Your Grace!” As Iswen's body leaned forward, the knight at the door quickly grabbed his arm. The cane he had dropped rolled across the floor. The man's unbalanced hand gripped the knight's arm. Blue veins, like proof of his pain, stood out sharply on his large hand. “What’s wrong?” My voice, which rushed out, - [2532-chapter-97](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2532-chapter-97/) - It didn't take long for Apple and me to embrace each other. After hugging her with all my strength and fully taking in her warmth, a man standing behind Apple came into view. The man, who was wearing an eye patch over one eye and looking somewhat anxious while glancing at me, was Demian. - [2531-chapter-96](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2531-chapter-96/) - “That concludes today’s lesson.” The man who was standing in front of my desk said, closing a book. He was the relative who had held my hand instead of Iswen’s at the wedding hall and the man Iswen had assigned to be my tutor. “I am Ian Melin, and I will be conducting the - [2530-chapter-95](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2530-chapter-95/) - Tracking is always late, no matter when it's done. That is because it's the act of chasing after something already lost. Knowing that, Sioden repeatedly reviewed the hints the departed woman had left. As he repeated that action, which had become a compulsion, he came to better understand the implications of the scenes imprinted - [2529-chapter-94](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2529-chapter-94/) - By what measure should the penalty for a sin committed knowingly be weighed? * * * Watching the woman walk down the aisle, Iswen gnawed anxiously at his lip. A rush of impulse to run to her and reveal his father's true nature mixed with the fear that he would have to spit out - [2528-chapter-93](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2528-chapter-93/) - "For now, you don't have the ability to manage a territory." Iswen spoke as the carriage was passing the mansion's entrance. "I will assign a tutor to you, so stay at the capital's mansion to acquire some knowledge, and then you may go down to the territory." I nodded compliantly at his words. "Alright." - [2527-chapter-92](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2527-chapter-92/) - The Emperor left the garden first, citing urgent matters of state. "If the opportunity arises, I hope we can meet again." She said, leaving a brief handshake with me. Iswen remained where the Emperor had departed. That was why I was now walking with him through the Imperial Palace garden. The sound of his - [2526-chapter-91](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2526-chapter-91/) - There was nothing different about the capital's Rowen. The capital's weather, upon their arrival after several weeks of utterly uncomfortable companionship with Iswen, was typical Southern spring. The time when the most brightly colored flowers bloomed before it got too hot. A season she had never enjoyed with peace of mind because she had - [2425-chapter-90](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2425-chapter-90/) - It was a lie planned from the start. "If you want, you can come back to listen again." When the woman looked up at him through the crack in the door, from which the organ music flowed, Sioden solidified a thought he had held once before. A lie. The setting, metaphorically prepared to allude to - [2424-chapter-89](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2424-chapter-89/) - It is not that the opportunity to learn is late. I have already lived for several years like a person who is both blind and deaf. The harm I suffered during that time will not disappear just because I start studying. Does Iswen even know what kind of harm he inflicted upon me? I dismissed - [2423-chapter-88](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2423-chapter-88/) - An opportunity once missed is never given again. Iswen Rowen's life had been like that for a very long time. "Don't act disappointingly for my son." Even when forced to stain his hands with the most despicable and cruel sin due to his father's pressure. "I'm sorry, I'm really sorry, Is..." Even when the collar - [2422-chapter-87](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2422-chapter-87/) - If they had passed the outer wall, it wouldn't take more than a few hours to reach the main castle. Nevertheless, Iswen's party did not enter the castle immediately. The attendant who had replaced Apple explained the reason. “They say the inspection will delay them by about a day.” The girl who used to attend - [2421-chapter-86](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2421-chapter-86/) - "You already knew, didn't you." The woman who had been hidden behind the maid stepped forward. Apple Leta tried to stop her master but was restrained by a hand gesture. Her light green eyes, full of betrayal, fixed precisely on her superior. "And I, not knowing that, like a fool..." The slender voice trembled, unable - [2420-chapter-85](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2420-chapter-85/) - When I ignored the numb sensation on the tip of my tongue and left the room, Apple was waiting for me. She looked at me with a worried expression. “Are you alright?” There was no reason for me not to be alright. I nodded to Apple. “Yes.” She still looked concerned about me but didn't - [2419-chapter-84](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2419-chapter-84/) - Tomorrow night? Isn't that too soon? We were planning to stay at this villa for about five days. That meant we had more than a day to spare. I remained silent, as I couldn't quite understand the decision to leave without even properly grasping the structure of the manor, so Apple continued. “It is a - [2525-chapter-130](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2525-chapter-130/) - The day of the promised meeting with Idel. For the first time in a while, Sigmund recalled his childhood days spent waiting for Idel in the Raven’s Nest as he headed toward the temple. This was because Idel had sent a note saying she might be late, as her meeting with Marquis Grant was - [2524-chapter-129](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2524-chapter-129/) - “Huh?” Idel’s eyes widened slightly at Sigmund’s reaction, which was different from what she had anticipated. She hadn't expected him to object. Sigmund had never refused a proposal of hers before—no matter how incomprehensible or unpleasant the suggestion might have been. ‘So I thought that this time, too, he would accept it even while - [2523-chapter-128](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2523-chapter-128/) - It didn't take long for the carriage to arrive at the temple. Because she had come straight from Marquis Grant’s funeral, Idel was still dressed in a black dress and veil, but no one paid her any mind. After all, three out of every ten people visiting the temple were bereaved families who had - [2522-chapter-127](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2522-chapter-127/) - “Huh?” That made it the third unexpected question she had received today alone. The first had been from Lady Evelyn, the second from Cordelia, and finally, Dante. The reason the last one was particularly bewildering was that she had never imagined hearing this subject brought up by him. ‘Especially not this directly.’ As she - [2521-chapter-126](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2521-chapter-126/) - At the sudden, out-of-context suggestion, Idel’s eyes widened for a moment. “Pardon?” “I didn’t mean to interrupt; it’s just that….” As Idel watched her, Cordelia’s eyes wavered noticeably. She was clearly tense. ‘What is this? She doesn't seem like the type to butt in without a reason. The suggestion is strange, too.’ Unable to - [2520-chapter-125](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2520-chapter-125/) - “It’s been a long time. I didn't expect to see you here either, Lord Dante.” “I’ve come on behalf of my father. Marquis Grant is an important figure to the House of Knightley, after all.” “Ah, of course.” The Grant Marquisate was famous for its abundant resources. Naturally, this was an achievement built by - [2519-chapter-124](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2519-chapter-124/) - Over the funeral hall, which had fallen into an instantaneous silence now that the ringleaders of the commotion had vanished, a small sob echoed. It was Marchioness Grant. Idel, who had moved to the Marquis’s side when he burst out of the coffin, gently took her arm. “Madam.” “……Ah, Young Lady. I’m sorry. I……” - [2518-chapter-123](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2518-chapter-123/) - “What in the world is this…?” The nobles covered their mouths with their hands, reeling from the bewildering crossfire between the three candidates. While the Marquis’s final testament had been shocking enough, the accusations flying between the three potential successors were far more horrifying. “Th-then, does this mean the rumors we heard just before - [2517-chapter-122](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2517-chapter-122/) - Marquis David Grant has passed away suddenly. It was the first obituary since the death of the former Crown Prince, Ulan Belnias, to send a shockwave through the social circles. "No, but he was in such good health?" "Then what happens to the Grant title? Will the Marchioness step forward?" "But how on earth - [2516-chapter-121](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2516-chapter-121/) - After Sigmund became the Crown Prince, there was one thought that crossed Idel’s mind. ‘It’s a bit rich coming from someone who even attended the previous Crown Prince's funeral… but for such a crazy world, things were settled much more quietly than I expected.’ There hadn’t been a tearful reunion like something out of - [2515-chapter-120](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2515-chapter-120/) - [Mom, Dad. I’m sorry. No, I shouldn't call you that anymore. It is time for me to face the truth. Perhaps I intercepted the letters that were meant for your real daughter. If that is the case, I apologize for that as well. The truth is… when the first reply came back, I realized - [2514-chapter-119](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2514-chapter-119/) - That was enough. Now that she understood the Marchioness’s intentions, Idel closed her eyes for a moment before opening them again. “I understand, Marchioness. You’ve shared a truth with me that I was unaware of... and besides, it’s a request for help that I’ve received after a long while.” “Does that mean, My Lady, - [2513-chapter-118](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2513-chapter-118/) - Idel immediately set down the teacup she had been raising to her lips at the proposal of the Marchioness—Tara Grant. Had she taken a sip just now, she surely would have choked. Placing the cup on its saucer with a steady hand, she forced a faint, apologetic smile. “My goodness. Forgive me, Marchioness. I - [2512-chapter-117](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2512-chapter-117/) - The conversation from that day suddenly flickered through Sigmund’s mind. The saint had first brought it up before Sigmund—who was visiting her—had even managed to take a seat. In other words, without any context or explanation, the Saint had abruptly thrown a proposition regarding "death" at him. Having heard something so logically incomprehensible out - [2511-chapter-116](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2511-chapter-116/) - Looking down at the robe fallen at her feet with a lukewarm gaze, Idel raised her eyes to look at the man standing before her. Standing with his back to the window, the man exuded a somewhat decadent and rugged aura, despite being properly dressed. ‘To be honest, it feels sinful enough that meeting - [2495-chapter-115](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2495-chapter-115/) - Evelyn Harrington, famous in Imperial high society by her nickname "Canary," had recently lost her zest for life. 'There’s nothing, nothing, absolutely nothing!' Was it because she had already tasted the ultimate thrill? No matter how wide she opened her eyes or how sharply she tilted her ears, there were no stories nearly as interesting - [2494-chapter-114](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2494-chapter-114/) - He asked to be told the moment anyone with that mark was seen, regardless of the time? And with hollow eyes, no less? ‘Warning someone to run because it’s dangerous—I suppose I could interpret that as a kind of goodwill. But asking to be told directly? Why go that far?’ One could invent any number - [2493-chapter-113](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2493-chapter-113/) - “The abandoned orphanage... Ah, you mean the place where we obtained the materials regarding Nox.” Vivian immediately understood what Idel meant and tilted her head slightly. “Didn't you get all the data you wanted back then? I assumed you did, since you haven't looked for it since.” “That’s right. I also thought there would be - [2492-chapter-112](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2492-chapter-112/) - The ticklish, awkward atmosphere between Vincent and Idel did not last long. Shortly after those words—which were embarrassing enough to turn her face bright red—Idel drifted back into a deep sleep. ‘She used to worry every time the child collapsed…’ But this time was different. Partly because of the priest’s advice, and partly because he - [2491-chapter-111](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2491-chapter-111/) - At Vincent's question, Idel froze instantly. It was a different kind of bewilderment than the hesitation she had felt at Sigmund's words in the carriage. Because she had been so preoccupied with escaping Melisa's curse, she was ill-prepared for something like this. 'Are you asking why I won't call you Dad...?' Wasn't it a given - [2464-chapter-108](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2464-chapter-108/) - Idel blinked for a moment, looking at the woman who exuded an intelligent aura. “Amelia?” The name sounds familiar. Where did I hear it? 'Amelia. Amelia Lewis...' She silently repeated the name a few times and slightly tilted her head. As expected, it was a name she felt like she knew but couldn't place. Meanwhile, - [2466-chapter-110](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2466-chapter-110/) - 'What was that just now?' Idel rubbed her eyes, frowning. She couldn't believe the figure she had just seen in the hallway. 'It was clearly Sigmund... Did I see a hallucination because I'm too tired?' Logically, that should be correct. The figure disappeared in the blink of an eye, and it was true that she - [2465-chapter-109](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2465-chapter-109/) - “...Th-Thanks?” Idel, who answered reflexively, narrowed her brows with a bewildered expression. 'That's not what I meant to say.' She originally intended to ask when he woke up or if he had been pretending to be unconscious from the start. Although the decisive reason for making a choice different from the plan was because of - [2510-chapter-55](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2510-chapter-55/) - “What do I need to do? Just say the word.” Lenette waited a heartbeat before answering. “I heard that your wife Sabia’s family runs a very large merchant guild.” She avoided mentioning Rahim’s maternal side, knowing he was practically estranged from his mother and her family. “That’s true, but… do you mean you want - [2509-chapter-54](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2509-chapter-54/) - “Forget about hitting you—has the brother who only ever protected you ever used direct violence against you before yesterday?” “…….” Rahim was not stupid. As is often the case with those who grow up being mistreated, he was intelligent and quick-witted. However, he was ignorant in specific areas. For instance, in matters regarding "relationships - [2508-chapter-53](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2508-chapter-53/) - ‘I’m going crazy.’ As if reading his thoughts, Kuz tossed and turned, shifting around to find a comfortable position. Myaa. Lene and Kazen adjusted their arms to accommodate Kuz. In the process, the tips of their fingers lightly brushed against each other. Startled! As the two humans lying on either side of him flinched - [2507-chapter-52](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2507-chapter-52/) - “Kazen. You don't know until you try.” “It’s something we don’t even need to try.” “How dangerous could it possibly be? Even if it is, you can just hide outside, Kazen, and save me if it looks like something is about to happen.” “…….” With her speaking like this, there was no stopping Lenette. - [2506-chapter-51](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2506-chapter-51/) - “I felt sorry for a guy like him. So I looked after him a few times, and he started acting affectionate. Since it was actually quite cute back when we were kids, I took care of him quite a bit.” Because of that, they say Rahim came to trust and follow Kazen even more - [2505-chapter-50](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2505-chapter-50/) - ‘I have to hurry and let them know so Kus will be safe!’ After all, she wouldn’t be of any help with her own strength. She threw off her shoes, which kept slipping off, and ran toward the banquet hall. “Ugh, ah!!” “Save me!!” From behind, she heard the screams of humans and the - [2504-chapter-49](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2504-chapter-49/) - As Lenette left the banquet hall, the warriors, including Nazan, immediately followed behind her. “Are you really going to follow me all the way there?” Seeing the sharpness in Lenette's eyes, they hesitated. “I’m sorry. Just to the front—” “Are you saying you’ll be able to hear everything from up front?” “But it could - [2503-chapter-48](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2503-chapter-48/) - “Alright, stop staring at me like a flounder.” “What’s with the flounder? Why do you keep bringing it up?” As she grumbled loud enough for him to hear, he turned to her and asked, “Don’t you know what a flounder is?” “What is it?” “A fish.” “I’ve never seen one or eaten one.” “You’ve - [2502-chapter-47](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2502-chapter-47/) - “Kazen, thank you.” “Suddenly?” “Yes, suddenly. You’ve tried to protect me, after all. Thank you.” With those words, Lenette smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. “…….” It was a smile she had never shown him before. It was beautiful and charming. However, Kazen ignored the words that rose within him and continued to - [2501-chapter-46](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2501-chapter-46/) - Chapter 46 “I’ll ask again. Who ordered me to be killed?” “...I also received orders from above, so I’m not sure.” “Where is this ‘above’?” It seems the reason for not answering immediately earlier was due to a lack of knowledge. This time, a quick response followed. “They are based in the capital.” “You were - [2500-chapter-45](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2500-chapter-45/) - “I’m sorry.” “……” Lenette’s pouting lips shut tightly, surprised by the sudden apology. Then, the apology came again. “I’m sorry.” He didn’t add any further explanations. After a moment of contemplation, Lenette finally spoke softly. “…I’m sorry for acting recklessly, too.” “You realize that, huh? ” She glared at Kazen again. “Did you come - [2499-chapter-44](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2499-chapter-44/) - ‘What? Not feeling well?’ Who? ‘Me?’ It was only then that Kazen realized he had been feeling not just displeased since entering the room, but rather angry. “......” He was taken aback. Was this really something to be angry about? Lenette was in danger, but it wasn’t a situation that posed a threat to - [2498-chapter-43](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2498-chapter-43/) - ‘It definitely sounded like footsteps.’ Lenette frowned and called his name again. "Kazen, are you out there?" Once again, there was no response. But Lenette could feel it. Someone was outside. "……" Her body stiffened, and her heart began to race. ‘What should I do?’ She turned her head, but there was nothing that - [2497-chapter-42](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2497-chapter-42/) - Chapter 42 'Does he think I'll run away if he leaves me alone in the abandoned palace?' Well, that's true. The time they spent together is still too short to give complete trust. By the way, with this situation, even if she struggles to enter the capital, there's a possibility that the wedding could fall - [2496-chapter-41](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2496-chapter-41/) - "That's accurate. But that's only true up until last year. Starting this year, the supply of yellow beans has also been cut off." Thus, three types of grains have disappeared from the Ragan region. "If this process continues, the variety of agricultural products grown in this area will gradually decrease." "And if the crops - [2490-chapter-100](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2490-chapter-100/) - "Wh-what are you doing right now...?" A thought flashed through my mind, and I quickly closed my mouth. Erich Lennon Blant had never shown himself like this before. Moreover… ‘Now that I look closely, there’s blood on his clothes.’ At first, I hadn’t noticed because of his black cloak, but up close, there were - [2489-chapter-99](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2489-chapter-99/) - At my question, Janet sighed before opening her mouth. “There was a big explosion in the hotel restaurant.” “What? What caused it?” It was Demian who answered my question. “I went down to the restaurant with Dad, and some man threw a black ball! It exploded!” “What? You’re not hurt, are you?” I looked - [2488-chapter-98](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2488-chapter-98/) - In a situation where he could easily die, Reinhardt quickly racked his brain. Could it be that she realized something? But how? He hadn't left any evidence. As he pondered various possibilities, Reinhardt finally managed to open his mouth, which had been stuck shut. "Your Highness, why are you... doing this all of a - [2487-chapter-98](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2487-chapter-98/) - In a situation where he could easily die, Reinhardt quickly racked his brain. Could it be that she realized something? But how? He hadn't left any evidence. As he pondered various possibilities, Reinhardt finally managed to open his mouth, which had been stuck shut. "Your Highness, why are you... doing this all of a - [2486-chapter-97](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2486-chapter-97/) - A warm feeling was radiating from the child's small and fragile body. As Erich flinched in surprise, the child looked up at him and said, "Dad, you had a tough day, didn’t you?" "No, nothing happened…" As he tried to deny it, the child’s small hands clutched his collar tightly. Then, standing on tiptoe, - [2485-chapter-96](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2485-chapter-96/) - Reinhardt swallowed dryly without realizing it. 'Damn it, I made a mistake.' She’s already a sensitive woman. Because of this one mistake, she might start to doubt him. ‘I have to make up for this somehow.’ After a while, he spoke to Cornelia. "People with such skills are rare. Besides, if they are with - [2484-chapter-95](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2484-chapter-95/) - The sudden illness of the Emperor, the chaotic state of the Empire, and Xenon, who had been targeting Cornelia's child. The mastermind behind all these events was right in front of him. Although there was no solid proof yet, Erich was convinced that Reinhardt was the mastermind behind it all. That’s why he had - [2483-chapter-94](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2483-chapter-94/) - As soon as I finished speaking, the crowd began to buzz. "Is she serious?" "But how can we believe her?" The crowd's faces showed a mix of skepticism and expectation. However, I didn't say this merely to resolve the situation. "Anyway, the nobles will request a state council meeting with His Majesty the Emperor - [2482-chapter-93](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2482-chapter-93/) - ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 "How dare you side with the wicked woman!" "Are you even human?" Even in the face of countless accusations directed at him, Erich remained unfazed. It was no surprise; he was used to it. These were - [2481-chapter-92](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2481-chapter-92/) - Fuming with anger, Reinhardt tried to rush to where Erich was. "Your Grace, please calm down!" It was his aide who stopped Reinhardt. Meanwhile, Erich had already cleared the area around the carriage. The people were unable to approach the carriage, overwhelmed by the powerful presence of the cloaked figure who suddenly appeared. Seizing - [2480-chapter-91](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2480-chapter-91/) - "I apologize for this, but I’ve heard some strange rumors." Finally, Baron Lacne looked toward the window where I was and smiled ominously. "They say the person riding in this carriage is Her Highness, the Princess." The pedestrians watching us and those passing by stopped. "What? The Princess? I thought she was dead." "Come - [2479-chapter-90](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2479-chapter-90/) - ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 Meanwhile, Erich was surveying the area around the hotel, preemptively eliminating any threats. ‘I came here after sensing something suspicious, and it turns out it was just a pickpocket.’ The security in the territory was still excellent, compared to the countryside. The absence - [2478-chapter-89](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2478-chapter-89/) - The Emperor's eyes widened in surprise at his daughter's response, and then he let out a wry laugh. ‘Yes, she probably doesn’t need what I’m offering anymore.’ He knew. He knew that the words he had just spoken sounded like a way to alleviate his guilt before dying. And that wasn’t entirely wrong. It - [2477-chapter-88](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2477-chapter-88/) - I watched the servant hurriedly flee for a moment. Then I picked up one of the candles and frowned. ‘That crazy bastard.’ Seeing my reckless sibling, I couldn’t help but think that way. Because… "Wow, they say you’re my father’s mistress; your figure isn’t bad at all, huh?" That crazy, reckless bastard was scanning - [2476-chapter-87](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2476-chapter-87/) - I was dumbfounded by the Emperor's words. ‘Help Fritz?’ Hearing his praise, I had thought my father was finally acknowledging me. After all, unlike the empress, the emperor had taken care of me and shown some concern. But that was my foolish delusion. ‘In the end, you're just after what I had gathered. You - [2475-chapter-86](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2475-chapter-86/) - The Emperor glared at Reinhardt with a stern expression. Reinhardt looked up at the emperor with concern and asked, "Your Majesty, is something wrong?" After a moment, the Emperor relaxed his expression and laughed heartily. "Hahaha, I was just momentarily having trouble with my eyesight. It’s only you who worries about me!" "That’s only - [2474-chapter-85](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2474-chapter-85/) - As soon as I entered the hotel, I received a brief report about what had happened while we were away. ‘Marquis Arzen, to commit such acts and still come looking for me...’ I felt like I wanted to confront my uncle, who had tried to kidnap my child, and make him pay immediately. Although - [2473-chapter-84](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2473-chapter-84/) - ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 ‘How dare you…’ Erich glared at the man spouting nonsense, filled with killing intent. He had suspected it from the moment the man spoke rudely, but overall, he gave off a low-quality thug vibe. ‘How dare someone like you insult her?’ He wanted nothing - [2472-chapter-83](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2472-chapter-83/) - The manager, who had received advance notice, came out to greet Marquis Arzen when he arrived at the hotel. "Is the Countess and all her guards in the room?" "Not all of them. Just a moment ago, one maid and one of the guards left carrying a large bag, presumably to buy something." One - [2471-chapter-82](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2471-chapter-82/) - I quickly shook my head and spoke. "That wasn’t meant for you." After finishing my words, I glanced out the window. Erich was mounting his horse alongside Marquis Philippe. ‘If it weren’t for my child, I wouldn’t be stuck in such uncomfortable company.’ As I ground my teeth, I saw him turning his head - [2470-chapter-81](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2470-chapter-81/) - As the pitch-black night passed and the blue dawn approached, Erich remained motionless, not having slept a wink. Finally, he spoke softly. "How long are you going to stay there?" Rustle—. Just then, a figure emerged from the dewy bushes. It was Janet. She bowed her head, then opened her mouth. "Guarding the madam is - [2463-chapter-107](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2463-chapter-107/) - 'Sigmund collapsed?' Whether Patrick had his hands clasped behind his back or not wasn't important right now. Idel's eyes widened at Dante's cry to 'get ahold of yourself,' and she quickly turned her head to look behind her. Near Sigmund, who was lying on the floor with his eyes closed, Ivan and Dante, along - [2462-chapter-106](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2462-chapter-106/) - Even in a state where she couldn't open her eyes, Melisa reached out a hand toward the Duchess. It was a fierce obsession. Of course, she had no intention of letting Melisa have her way. After all the trouble of saving the Duke and breaking the curse, letting the Duchess slip away now would - [2461-chapter-105](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2461-chapter-105/) - With those words, Melisa cracked a grin. The Duke, who had been watching the situation in a state of battle readiness, easily realized what he was about to do as he saw the wind gradually gathering around Melisa's body. 'Is he trying to condense his magic power and cause an explosion?' It was a - [2460-chapter-104](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2460-chapter-104/) - "Colton, Colton. I thought it was strange when some unknown person suddenly attached himself to your side... It seems a traitor has extended a hand." "......" Saying that, Melisa rolled his eyes and looked at Idel. Idel did not answer Melisa's words, but Melisa took the silence as an answer. 'Idel was friends with - [2459-chapter-103](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2459-chapter-103/) - Just as Idel had diligently worked for three years, Gianna also lived every day to the fullest. To protect Idel first, surpassing Dante and Sigmund, who were two years older than her, she had to work hard enough to overcome the two years she was born late. Although her muscles were not fully developed - [2458-chapter-102](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2458-chapter-102/) - “Da… dad? Dad?" "What in the world is going on..." People everywhere expressed their confusion at the incomprehensible words. In an instant, one trembling voice among the clamoring people raised its volume. "Idel, just... just a moment. I don't understand... Did you just call Melisa, my sister, Dad...? Did I hear that correctly?" "Yes. - [2457-chapter-101](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2457-chapter-101/) - Vincent could not easily open his mouth. Like someone who had forgotten how to speak, he gazed at the child standing before him for a long time. The slightly flushed fair cheeks, the hands that were still small compared to his own, and the gaze that looked straight at him. '......Dad.' He chewed over - [2456-chapter-70](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2456-chapter-70/) - Chapter 70. Suho’s face twisted, on the verge of tears. His big eyes wavered with a clear film of water, and the tip of his nose flushed red almost instantly. “Wait, Suho…” I hadn’t even finished speaking when Suho leapt off the bed and ran toward Jay. Without thinking, I hurried after him, pushing the - [2455-chapter-69](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2455-chapter-69/) - Chapter 69. His face, when he turned back, was a mix of confusion, anger, and embarrassment. Without even glancing at my expression, Jay only tightened the grip on my arm. A sharp sting made me realize it was my turn to respond. “…Mm. Yeah.” “……” Not that it was much of an answer. I knew - [2454-chapter-68](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2454-chapter-68/) - Chapter 68. He moved his hand slowly over my lower stomach and sides, his sticky touch tracing my soft flesh. "Ah…" His hot hand moved past my ribs, going higher. My T-shirt rode up with it, and cold air touched my stomach. I felt a heavy mass rub against my back. "Uh, nhngh…." The subtle - [2453-chapter-67](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2453-chapter-67/) - Chapter 67. “Jay, are you okay? Jay!” I called his name and shook him, but there was no response. He had lost consciousness. The moment I realized it, I didn’t even have time to think. My voice rang out, screaming for help. Medical staff rushed over and tried to pull his body off me, but - [2452-chapter-66](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2452-chapter-66/) - Chapter 66. I was discharged. Thanks to somehow managing to eat and live decently even on that barren deserted island, no particular health issues were found. Just some light scratches and nutritional imbalance. Thinking about it, maybe I’d been hospitalized unnecessarily for a whole month when one night’s stay would’ve been enough. I should’ve brought - [2451-chapter-65](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2451-chapter-65/) - Chapter 65. My voice rang out loudly in the wide, empty corridor, only to scatter into pitiful fragments. Still, I refused to give up and chased after him to the very end. Maybe Jay had been lost in thought and simply hadn’t heard me. “Jay.” “……” “Hey!” “……” Rattle, rattle. The wheels of the IV - [2450-chapter-64](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2450-chapter-64/) - Chapter 64. It was Park Jong-hoo. When I looked at him in surprise, he gave an awkward smile and slightly bowed his head in greeting. “Try pressing the button on top to shoot fire. That’s it.” I couldn’t understand why a dark-suited adult was here alone, in a place full of kids. Moreover, his handling - [2449-chapter-63](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2449-chapter-63/) - Chapter 63. Finally, overwhelmed by the relentless waves of emotion, I couldn’t contain myself and tears began to fall. “Take her for questioning, and have Director Park come here.” He had changed completely. Reunited about two weeks after the rescue, he was like a different person. His words cut like a knife, making my heart - [2446-chapter-60](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2446-chapter-60/) - "Stop the car!" Bai Xuyang shouted immediately. The driver slammed on the brakes. The cars carrying the bodyguards behind them also screeched to a halt in unison. Qin Guilin asked, "Who's this guy dressed like a peacock?" Bai Xuyang said in a deep voice, "He is Su Wuji." "This is the little hooligan whose bar - [2445-chapter-59](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2445-chapter-59/) - With the successive endorsements of two powerhouse enterprises, Maxwell and Bikang Pharmaceuticals, the atmosphere at the Linmu Bank opening had transformed from the brink of chaos to one of jubilation. Countless eyes were now fixed on this place. The better the atmosphere here, the uglier Bai Xuyang's face became. Qin Guilin nudged Bai Xuyang and - [2444-chapter-58](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2444-chapter-58/) - "Three billion US dollars, how is that possible?" Bai Xuyang frowned deeply, genuinely dumbfounded. He had thought that by transferring the city leader in charge of Linzhou's finance to a meeting in the Capital, leaving Linmu Bank without anyone to stand on their platform, they would naturally struggle to take a single step forward. Using - [2448-chapter-62](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2448-chapter-62/) - Chapter 62. Every single word in response crushed my longing. Yet, “they” didn’t seem like it referred to Jay. I guessed it was probably Jay’s family preventing contact with me. It made sense. Jay and I lived in completely different worlds. We were born in the same country as humans, but that didn’t mean we - [2443-chapter-57](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2443-chapter-57/) - Stifled by a bellyful of rage with nowhere to vent, Bai Xuyang, with his explosive temper, had been suffocating for the past three days. In fact, the elders in his family had long since told him to find an opportunity to sell Tailong Club. However, selling it himself and having it smashed by someone else - [2447-chapter-61](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2447-chapter-61/) - Chapter 61. Title: Update on the “Tracking to the End Legend.” The Full Story of Cha Yoon’s Disappearance Content: “Tracking to the End” Episode 815 (20xx. 11.19) Vanished Without a Trace: The Billionaire Cruise Disappearance Watching the full episode is far more thrilling and immersive. Feels like a movie. For those too lazy, here’s a - [2442-chapter-56](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2442-chapter-56/) - Mu Qianyu returned to Linzhou from the Capital, never once mentioning to Su Wuji that she had smashed Tailong Club. The opening of Linmu Bank was, for her, a crucial step in leading the Mu family's second rise. As for the elders in the family, those who wanted to see Mu Qianyu fail were definitely - [2441-chapter-55](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2441-chapter-55/) - At seven the next morning, Xiao Yinlei knocked twice before opening the door and entering Su Wuji's room. The latter was wearing only a pair of shorts and was doing a handstand. He was supporting his body steadily with just two fingers on each hand, without the slightest tremor. "Boss, I have something to report." - [2440-chapter-54](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2440-chapter-54/) - Li Qingchen had been the overseer of the Mu family for many years. As a master of the Jianghu, he had never in his life done something like smashing up a club. The Mu family hadn't even made their first step into the Capital yet, and engaging in direct conflict with the Bai family was, - [2439-chapter-53](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2439-chapter-53/) - Just when the entire Earl Club suddenly lost power, Xu Jiayan clearly noticed one of the designated drivers waiting at the entrance push his e-bike to the ground, roughly shove through the crowd, and squeeze into the club's main gate. This person was either Zhuo Sixuan's bodyguard or... a Dkaro Hyena. Xu Jiayan memorized the - [2438-chapter-52](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2438-chapter-52/) - Su Wuji knew that Li Zunyang's behind-the-scenes boss had already noticed Xu Jiayan and himself. Otherwise, he wouldn't have arranged for his secretary to pick them up. However, the method of picking them up was a bit too impolite. As a response, Su Wuji had let them have a little something extra to eat in - [2408-chapter-51](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2408-chapter-51/) - Inside the café, Park Yanxi and Xu Jiayan sat opposite each other. Park Yanxi was not in uniform but wore black sportswear. Her pure, understated beauty formed a stark contrast with Xu Jiayan, whose very bones seemed to exude sex appeal and charm. "Miss Xu, do you have any knowledge about your background?" Park Yanxi - [2437-chapter-3](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2437-chapter-3/) - The head of the Gu family, Gu Yunzhuang, had only ever taken one wife; Gu Dao’s birth mother. But she had long since passed away. His father’s concubine, Mei Sheng, held a lowly status and no real power. So the one truly in charge of the household was Madam Pang, the official wife of the - [2436-chapter-79](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2436-chapter-79/) - 『 A house where he can serve her comfortably?』 Cassius, surprised, immediately stuck close to Walter. Seeing him sneak out secretly with that expression, it seemed like it wouldn’t just end as a normal incident. Cassius had to follow him to handle the situation or at least figure out what was going on. They took - [2435-chapter-78](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2435-chapter-78/) - As Cassius took a step back, he observed the three people and mentally organized a relationship diagram. 『 So, judging by his magic power and the Duke’s attitude, it seems that Walter is a Lexion. We don’t know if the Duke is aware of the pregnancy, but since he laid a hand on Edith, Walter - [2434-chapter-77](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2434-chapter-77/) - Using the excuse of touring the gardens, Edith was able to take a full tour of the Imperial Palace and gather quite a bit of information. The most impressive information she obtained today was how Patricia was treated within the Palace. 『 I heard that she doesn’t reside in the Empress’s Palace but in a - [2433-chapter-76](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2433-chapter-76/) - Edith looked at the Imperial Palace, which was getting closer and closer. Some people might get excited to enter a place they could only visit once in a lifetime, but there was a fundamental problem. 『 In the palace, there is not only the Emperor but also the Imperial Consort Dowager and many of her - [2432-chapter-75](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2432-chapter-75/) - “I apologize once again for my rudeness. Please get home safely.” The Lexion knight said, bowing politely. The attitude of the servants, who had been business-like when they entered the Duke’s manor, became more respectful upon the Duke’s request to maintain their manners. Edith could guess the reason for this change. 『 I don’t know - [2431-chapter-74](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2431-chapter-74/) - “Please remove your hands.” Walter, who couldn’t withstand the Duke’s threat, crushed the Duke’s hand. When a mere guard had the audacity to block the Duke of Lexion, who held the second position in the line of succession to the throne, a profound silence enveloped the entire area. “Walter!” Edith urgently called Walter over, but - [2430-chapter-73](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2430-chapter-73/) - Theos once again gave a clear answer. “The fastest way is to inquire with the family of the person who had the outburst. They must have done research in case something similar happened. Maybe they might have records from previous generations.” “I see. The world of magic is fascinating.” Edith responded calmly this time, but - [2429-chapter-72](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2429-chapter-72/) - In a coffee house in the capital, lively discussions revolved around House Lexion’s banquet. “It was surprising that a noble family that had just arrived from the countryside received an invitation.” “Is there something special about them?” “I wonder what the Duke of Lexion discussed with them?” With people’s attention focused on the banquet, the - [2428-chapter-71](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2428-chapter-71/) - While Edith was calming herself with tea alongside Helen, Walter was deliberately talking to Cassius about the assassins he had purposefully let go. “The Duke of Lexion must be thinking about how to put the assassins to good use by now. It might have deviated a bit from the initial plan...” Cassius didn’t know what - [2427-chapter-70](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2427-chapter-70/) - Walter brought his face closer to Edith, so close that their noses almost touched, and she locked eyes with him. At first, it was difficult for her to refuse when he asked like that in his low voice. But now, with the added information that he was her first love, she simply couldn’t refuse. “Yeah... - [2426-chapter-70](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2426-chapter-70/) - The space inside the wall was just wide enough to fit three people. That meant there was enough room between Edwin and Vivianne for one more person to squeeze in. Relieved that it wasn’t too cramped, Vivianne pressed her back against the wall and looked down at the faint moonlight trickling in through a small - [2418-chapter-83](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2418-chapter-83/) - Sioden returned in a little less than two weeks. Late at night, torches announcing the lord's return were lit, and the drawbridge over the moat was lowered. I had been awake until then, unable to sleep. “You absolutely must get proper sleep tonight.” Apple, who had also been sleeping late for several days because - [2417-chapter-82](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2417-chapter-82/) - Lupid Regen knew a few secrets of his deceased friend. He and Lerox had entrusted their backs to each other countless times while fighting the war with Kaulm. It is difficult to hide things between those who rely on each other for their lives. Lupid thus knew several aspects of his friend that only - [2416-chapter-81](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2416-chapter-81/) - That day, Sioden took me to the bedroom and said, “The door to this room is always open.” “But if an instrument gets damaged again… That is my fault for not managing it properly.” It seemed there was no need to worry further, so I walked on in silence, but he added, “If you - [2415-chapter-80](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2415-chapter-80/) - I already knew the location of the room with the organ, so finding it was not difficult. However, just as I almost reached the slightly ajar door, the music stopped. The sound of the keyboard bench scraping against the floor followed. Soon, the gap in the door widened slightly, and the man who appeared - [2414-chapter-79](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2414-chapter-79/) - Taking me, with my tear-stained face, out of Sioden's study, Apple explained in a soft, steady voice. "Even if he found out we were trying to raise funds, the attempt to secure a ship to Emerta won't have been discovered yet. When I put down the deposit for the ship, I didn't do it - [2413-chapter-78](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2413-chapter-78/) - "Was it so difficult to just listen to me once?" "......" "I'm not talking about the incidents where evidence emerged. I'm talking about the words I spoke right here, in this very room." I looked around his study, which hadn't changed much from years ago. Just because what happened here can no longer wound - [2412-chapter-77](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2412-chapter-77/) - Sioden sat down in front of me as I wordlessly stared down at the jewels. He said, "I bought them from a merchant outside the castle walls." "H-how?" I realized right after the words left my mouth. What a foolish question. Doesn't it make me look like someone clearly hiding something? I bit the - [2411-chapter-76](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2411-chapter-76/) - Even an outing was restricted; I couldn't go outside the outer castle walls. A foreigner entering Raslet Castle had to pass through a total of three walls. There was the wall separating the castle where the lord and his family lived from the outer village, the outer wall encompassing even the village beyond that, - [2410-chapter-69](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2410-chapter-69/) - It was a series of shocks. Alice, who came to see Vivianne before she was even remotely prepared, casually dropped a bombshell. The final game of tonight’s party was going to be hide-and-seek — the kind children usually enjoy — where guests would hide throughout the palace, and two seekers would have to find two people - [2409-chapter-68](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2409-chapter-68/) - The morning of the third day, after what felt like an eternity, dawned bright and clear. Edwin, reading the morning paper while enjoying the cool autumn breeze drifting through the open window, checked the time just as his coffee began to cool. When the time came to summon someone, he left instructions with a servant - [2407-chapter-50](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2407-chapter-50/) - After the storm subsided, Su Wuji accompanied Xu Jiayan to her residence in Ninghai. Xu Jiayan had bought a two-bedroom apartment in a residential area five kilometers from the hospital. Downstairs was the bustling life of the city, very lively. As soon as they entered the room, Xu Jiayan kicked off her high heels, took - [2406-chapter-49](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2406-chapter-49/) - "Kong Shilei, what's wrong with you?" Before this, Li Zunyang had never seen his most capable subordinate behave like this! However, Kong Shilei didn't respond. This super enforcer stared intently at Su Wuji, his eyes filled with intense disbelief. "It... It's you?" Kong Shilei asked. Everyone could even hear a hint of fear in his - [2392-chapter-48](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2392-chapter-48/) - Li Yaoshuo's behavior had long incited public anger at Cihui Hospital. Thus, upon witnessing Su Wuji's actions, the medical staff all secretly applauded. But they also broke a sweat for Su Wuji. After all... in front of the powerful Director Li Zunyang, no one truly had high hopes for this young man. Twenty minutes later, - [2391-chapter-47](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2391-chapter-47/) - Su Wuji sat in the café at the hospital entrance for three hours, waiting until the end of the workday before walking into the hospital. The environment of Cihui Hospital was excellent, and the fees were extremely high. The patients were either rich or noble, and the parking lot was full of luxury cars. Su - [2375-chapter-46](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2375-chapter-46/) - Su Wuji had no idea that Jiang Wanxing and Mu Qianyu had appeared at Tianji Middle School at the same time, or that they had even met his parents. Early in the morning, he drove to the top-floor apartment in the city center to check on Xu Jiayan's injuries, only to find her packing her - [2374-chapter-45](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2374-chapter-45/) - Mu Qianyu's expression suddenly became unnatural. She said nothing more, picked up her chopsticks, and quickly finished the remaining small half of her noodles. Her ears were buzzing from the spice, making it hard to hear what was being said on the other end of the phone, and only then did Mu Qianyu feel a - [2396-chapter-44](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2396-chapter-44/) - By this time, it was already evening. Jiang Wanxing and Mu Qianyu decided to just grab a simple meal in the school cafeteria. At this hour, the only thing left was Wanza noodles. Jiang Wanxing slurped down the noodles in big mouthfuls, praising the taste as she ate, and even drank all the soup. Perhaps - [2373-chapter-44](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2373-chapter-44/) - By this time, it was already evening. Jiang Wanxing and Mu Qianyu decided to just grab a simple meal in the school cafeteria. At this hour, the only thing left was Wanza noodles. Jiang Wanxing slurped down the noodles in big mouthfuls, praising the taste as she ate, and even drank all the soup. Perhaps - [2405-chapter-69](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2405-chapter-69/) - “Your Grace, it would not be a good choice to kill the girl who received your daughter’s care at her birthday celebration,” Edith said, barely suppressing her fear. Then, although it was only for a moment, Franz’s eyes wavered. She felt like she might understand the cruelty flickering in the Duke’s eyes. She could understand - [2404-chapter-67](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2404-chapter-67/) - Vivianne, having finished her performance without incident, had no trouble pretending to be composed—until the Queen complimented her. But as soon as the Queen turned her attention to Edwin and began to speak, Vivianne’s consciousness started to blur. Even Edwin’s response to the Queen became indistinct as the intoxication took hold. Naturally, Edwin escorted Vivianne - [2403-chapter-68](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2403-chapter-68/) - Even though Edith saw it with her own eyes, she couldn’t accept it. It felt like time had stopped. No matter how she looked at it, the woman in the portrait was Mrs. Leah in her younger days. What’s more, the painting on the wall closely resembled a small portrait inside the locket she had - [2402-chapter-67](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2402-chapter-67/) - 『 When the Militia Force surrounded Fortrion Manor, Walter was there, leading the territory’s residents.』 Although Isabelle had no particular interest in Walter, she remembered him because of his imposing height, which made his face stand out. Walter wouldn’t like any of the women associated with Nicholas if he were a part of the Militia - [2401-chapter-66](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2401-chapter-66/) - Since the banquet at Lexion Manor was scheduled to be held in just a few days, Fortrion was busy preparing to attend the event. “Reinhardt, please convey my gratitude to your wife. Thanks to calling the designer in advance, I was able to get my dress tailored in time.” As Helen spoke, Reinhardt also smiled - [2400-chapter-65](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2400-chapter-65/) - “If M’lady gives the order, I’ll take care of that employee for you,” Walter said as the carriage left the academy grounds. However, Edith didn’t really care about the employee who had treated her horribly. Since it was an academy attended by the children of high-ranking nobles, Edith always expected that there would be people - [2399-chapter-64](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2399-chapter-64/) - Edith tried to assess whether the arriving guest posed any threat. 『 If the head of a family that could afford such a carriage were to arrive, they would likely be riding a carriage with the family crest on it.』 It seemed that the first guest was not the head of the family, as they - [2398-chapter-63](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2398-chapter-63/) - Like many manors, Fortrion Manor, located in the capital, had an underground space for secret matters. “Please, please... Stop...” Gerturk’s assassins, their eyes covered with cloth and their hands and feet bound with chains, pleaded in broken voices. Because of the gag in their mouths, they couldn’t even pronounce their pleas properly. Unlike his usual playful - [2397-chapter-62](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2397-chapter-62/) - The visitor who came to Fortrion Manor was none other than a subordinate of the Emperor. “His Majesty the Emperor has postponed the audience with Viscountess Fortrion to ten days later.” Helen sent the subordinate off with courtesy, as she had learned from Mrs. Gray. If the audience was postponed so suddenly, there was an - [2372-chapter-43](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2372-chapter-43/) - Early the next morning, Jiang Wanxing began her drive to Liangshan. She didn't know if the head of the Operations Department had done it on purpose, but he had arranged for a green military Jeep, as if afraid Jiang Wanxing wouldn't be conspicuous enough. The drive would take about three or four hours. In the - [2371-chapter-42](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2371-chapter-42/) - Inside a campus cafe at Linjiang University. Jiang Wanxing couldn't help but feel a spark of awe as she looked at the girl across from her. Even without makeup and dressed simply, she possessed a beauty that transcended the ordinary. No wonder Jiang Haobing was smitten! This was undoubtedly the undisputed campus belle of Linjiang - [2370-chapter-41](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2370-chapter-41/) - Bai Xuyang had intended to cause a huge spectacle in Linzhou, making sure everyone in the Jiangnan region knew that Young Master Bai was extending his business reach to the city. However, due to Jiang Wanxing's presence, not only did he fail to cause a scene, but he was utterly humiliated and filled with jealousy. - [2369-chapter-40](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2369-chapter-40/) - "Today, I'm protecting him!" Her tone was final and brooked no argument! Since childhood, Jiang Wanxing had never felt the need to explain anything to her childhood friends from the compound. "I want to know why," Bai Xuyang felt a tightness in his chest. In his eyes, Su Wuji was just a minor nightclub owner - [2368-chapter-39](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2368-chapter-39/) - Jiang Wanxing genuinely hadn't expected Bai Xuyang to actually smash up Empress Bar. At this moment, all the elite forces of Empress Bar were out, and there wasn't even a single man left inside. Bai Xuyang, taking advantage of their absence, was truly despicable! Jiang Wanxing knew that in the Capital's circles, if you were - [2367-chapter-38](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2367-chapter-38/) - After the massive operation, there was an enormous amount of work to be done: searching, capturing, interrogating, recording statements, and helping the children find their parents. Moreover, given how large the Xiyang Town trafficking syndicate had grown, it was difficult to say that they hadn't received help from forces outside the country. Jiang Wanxing kept - [2274-chapter-37](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2274-chapter-37/) - It was a face full of malice. Even though the photo from back then was blurry, and even though years had passed and her hair was longer and she was thinner, Su Wuji and Jiang Wanxing still recognized her at a glance. This woman was Sister Fen! Su Wuji kicked the deep fryer over, and - [2273-chapter-36](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2273-chapter-36/) - Linzhou and Jinyang were both prefecture-level cities in Linjiang Province, and both were economically developed. However, northern Jinyang City was mountainous, and Xiyang Town was a mountainous township. This town had an important geographical location, though—it was situated at the border between Linjiang Province and Xijiang Province. A mountain road connected the two provinces, and - [2250-chapter-35](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2250-chapter-35/) - Jiang Wanxing had never in her life met such an unscrupulous merchant. How dare he ask her for three hundred thousand for something that cost eight hundred? The guy even pretended to be a good person before, saying he'd used the sofa for a few months and knocking off the extra fifty thousand from the - [2395-chapter-66](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2395-chapter-66/) - The sweat on Vivianne’s palms showed no sign of drying. Her lips were constantly chapping, and her back was completely soaked. Yet even amid all this, Vivianne couldn’t bring herself to say she would give up the performance. Instead, she pulled out the music sheet she had sealed away deep within her. But the old, - [2394-chapter-65](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2394-chapter-65/) - Vivianne thought it was time to stop bluffing and be honest. She knew she wasn’t capable of stopping the marriage just to avoid the shame of being called a mistress. So, the simplest and only solution was to win over Sarah Chadwick by preserving her dignity, thus quelling the rumors. As always, she entered the - [2393-chapter-64](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2393-chapter-64/) - Vivianne’s hand, which had been about to knock, paused in midair. After parting with Sarah Chadwick, she wandered the garden alone. She realized with painful clarity that she had done something reckless—but it wasn’t something she regretted. It was simply something she couldn’t fix. And if she failed to make things right here, she'd soon - [2390-chapter-61](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2390-chapter-61/) - “Understood.” Vane, a lieutenant general who had been a loyal subordinate of House Lexion and who had followed Franz for a long time, bowed his head deeply. In fact, it wasn’t just Nicholas Fortrion who wondered if there was a hidden offspring in the dukedom. Being a family with both power and honor, there were - [2389-chapter-60](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2389-chapter-60/) - “A trap?” Reinhardt wanted to ask Walter for more details, but he couldn’t. This was because Walter’s gaze shifted to Edith, who had just emerged from the building. Edith, with her long blond hair swept to one side and wearing a soft white fur coat, looked like a fluffy lamb puffed up to withstand the - [2388-chapter-59](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2388-chapter-59/) - “First of all, since you are going as Lady Fortrion, appropriate protocols will be provided. You don’t have to worry about the carriage or security.” Max’s tone was urgent, as he had received a clear order from Helen to ensure that Edith would accompany her by any means necessary. Edith listened to his words and then asked - [2387-chapter-58](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2387-chapter-58/) - Edith met Sullivan when she was just 20 years old. Sullivan, who was the same age as her at the time, knew nothing about herbs, so she was responsible for cleaning the clinic and disposing of the trash. ‘I heard you’re a descendant of slaves?’ ‘My husband died recently, and now they say I have - [2386-chapter-57](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2386-chapter-57/) - At this rate, it was absolutely impossible for Edith to claim that Benjamin was the father of her child. Benjamin, unaware of Edith’s true intentions, was taken aback by the sudden news of her pregnancy and blinked before asking. “Do I know the child’s father?” “...” In a situation like this, could there be any - [2385-chapter-56](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2385-chapter-56/) - The first snow that fell last night was so light that the weather the next day was mild. Thanks to Walter, who broke some branches and generously lit a fire, Edith could finally sleep in warmth and comfort. As Walter gazed at her sleeping face, he recalled the expression she had shown the previous night. - [2384-chapter-55](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2384-chapter-55/) - The fact that Edith’s expression was gradually freezing didn’t concern Philip at all. He was only interested in how much she inherited due to the Viscount’s death. “So how much did you inherit?” “...” “Am I right? A woman can make a good living just by getting married – Ugh!” With a loud thud, Philip - [2383-chapter-54](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2383-chapter-54/) - “... Alright.” When she replied that she was leaving, Merlin was overjoyed and acted as if Walter was now his for life. “You’ve made the right decision, Miss Edith.” “...” If he was going to tell her she had made the right decision, he could at least provide her with a coat. But Merlin gestured for - [2381-chapter-1](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2381-chapter-1/) - “Are you sure you don’t need me to put you to sleep, my lady?” “Uh-huh! I can sleep on my own!” On the surface, it was a rather mature answer. And that was exactly what made the nanny’s expression tighten with unease. “Lorelai, are your ears failing you? Why do you keep asking? Should I - [2382-chapter-2](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2382-chapter-2/) - At the report that his daughter had nearly bounced off the bed and crashed onto the floor, Duke Langston shook his head. "What on earth has gotten into her? She was screaming about how great it is to be healthy?" The butler gave a wry smile. "Yes, Your Grace. I'm at a loss as well. - [2379-chapter-1](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2379-chapter-1/) - "Don't take your eyes off me." His crimson eyes blazed with a fervor that seemed to claim her entirely. The man grasped her chin and parted her lips rather roughly. A scorching wet intruder began exploring every corner of her mouth. The faint scent of tobacco mixed with a provocative tang of desire, making her - [2380-chapter-2](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2380-chapter-2/) - Countless attempts, repeated agony. Death would draw near, only to retreat without fail, leaving her with an infinite life once more. It was as if death itself were taunting her, tilting its head in a shimmering mirage before vanishing without a trace. Tears scalded the corners of her eyes as the skin slowly knit itself - [2377-chapter-1](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2377-chapter-1/) - “Elisa.” A familiar, low voice called my name softly. A hot sigh followed, trailing along the curve of my ear. I squirmed, trying to free the hands wrapped around my waist from behind. Somehow, he’d grown so big he could easily hold me with one arm while the other gripped my hand firmly. His rough, - [2378-chapter-2](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2378-chapter-2/) - She saw me arrive and broke into a bright smile. —Your Highness! I was just about to go get you. Perfect timing! Her cheerful smile didn’t match her actions at all—she tossed dresses onto the floor without restraint. Soon, she must’ve found one she liked, because she let out a small cheer. —Ah! Finally found - [2376-chapter-63](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2376-chapter-63/) - “Since Rodinia is a city closer to the south, it will be a difficult journey for you, Miss Chadwick. If I knew a musician there, I might’ve been able to make a recommendation, but unfortunately, today is the first time I’ve ever set foot outside of Rodinia.” Vivianne responded cheekily in her own defense. The - [2366-chapter-75](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2366-chapter-75/) - Did my startled reaction show? Sioden explained himself the moment I turned around. "I didn't intend to startle you." He slowly approached me and said, "Since it's your first outing, I wanted to see you off. If it was uncomfortable, I will be careful not to let the same thing happen next time." He kept - [2365-chapter-74](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2365-chapter-74/) - When I returned to the bedroom after finishing dinner, Apple was awake and waiting for me. "My lady." She, who had been restlessly pacing with a pale face, came over to me. "My lady, I'm sorry. I..." Just as Apple was about to bow her head with an unnecessary apology, I wrapped my arms around - [2364-chapter-73](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2364-chapter-73/) - I laid the sleeping Apple on the bed and opened the letter Sioden had sent. When I sent a reply, the response came back immediately. It was a faster reply than I had expected. Accordingly, I prepared to go out and covered Apple, who still hadn't opened her eyes, with a blanket. "I'll be back." - [2363-chapter-72](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2363-chapter-72/) - Luke explained the reason. "It's a policy to unconditionally keep the records of anyone who has been investigated." "..." "Recently, I had reason to dig through those records on His Excellency's order, and the attendant written there was someone who neither indulged in tobacco nor alcohol nor gambling." Yet, the alcohol the woman kept refilling - [2362-chapter-71](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2362-chapter-71/) - The first things excluded were Sioden's gifts. "I can't sell the third one." Even the most indifferent man would surely remember which jewels he had gifted. In fact, even Demian had thrown tantrums, demanding to know if she'd sold them off if she didn't show him she was wearing the ones he'd bought. Apple, who - [2361-chapter-70](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2361-chapter-70/) - Two years ago, Apple Leta had come out of the castle and stayed in this village due to an incident. Since most of her necessities and items were provided and managed by the castle, her life was more akin to a luxurious exile than a simple relocation. As a result, it seemed she had - [2360-chapter-69](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2360-chapter-69/) - Apple spoke. “Last time, you mentioned that you wanted to leave far away.” “Apple, that was…” Before I could finish my thought that it was just something I said, she added, “We can prepare for that to be possible.” What was Apple saying right now? Her pronunciation was clear, but it was something I - [2359-chapter-68](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2359-chapter-68/) - Sioden, whom I encountered at the end of the corridor, stood there silently without saying a word. Only his deep blue eyes, which always gave me the same feeling regardless of his emotions, were directed toward me. However, just his presence naturally reminded me of our last conversation. * * * Behind the complex - [2358-chapter-67](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2358-chapter-67/) - When I asked Sioden if he intended to send me back to the South, he replied: “If possible, I would like to do that.” At that moment, I cried for several nights after hearing those words. The ‘end’ he spoke of was that frightening. I don’t know how lightly Sioden regarded our relationship. I - [2357-chapter-66](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2357-chapter-66/) - “What's going on? Why on earth...?” Sioden, who rushed in through the door, grimaced upon seeing Demian. “What have you done?” The atmosphere was tense, and Demian felt it too. “You bastard.” He muttered softly as he strode towards Sioden. Taking advantage of the moment when Demian had retreated before Apple and me, Sioden - [2356-chapter-65](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2356-chapter-65/) - “Did you cry?” That was the abrupt question from Demian when he visited the next day. His words naturally reminded me of what had happened with Sioden the night before. In the late hours, Sioden had insisted on dragging me to the room with the organ, and when things didn’t go well, he seemed - [2355-chapter-64](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2355-chapter-64/) - The one who spoke was Rufid, a vassal who had a good relationship with Lerox. However, the most significant feature Sioden remembered about him was not his connections but his blood relation. The man was the father of Rhys. That said, he wasn’t as truthful to Sioden as his son was. Rhys’s father, Cheland, - [2354-chapter-63](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2354-chapter-63/) - Evelyn's organ was a luxury item that only royalty could possess at the time, and it was exquisite and ornate, having been brought in from the capital. It would have fit well within Iella's standards, as she had lived in the capital since her birth. Coincidentally, Evelyn's organ was located in the annex. It - [2353-chapter-62](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2353-chapter-62/) - Through the gaps of her slender fingers, the words flowed out with such fear that my heart turned cold. Sioden hurriedly denied it. “I’m not trying to torment you.” His actions were completely contrary to that intention. “It was meant to correct a mistake.” He had to prove his willingness to improve. If he - [2352-chapter-61](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2352-chapter-61/) - Our lips briefly touched and then parted. Our foreheads cautiously met. The shimmering blue looked down at me from such a close distance that I could feel the heat within it. Sioden brushed my cheek with the hand that had been cradling half of his face. The protruding knuckles, connecting the fingers and the - [2351-chapter-60](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2351-chapter-60/) - As I froze at what awaited me, a man's hand was placed on my shoulder. Sioden gently led me into the room and said, “I remember you mentioned that playing the organ was a hobby of yours.” His words were true. I had once told Sioden that I primarily played the organ in the - [2350-chapter-59](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2350-chapter-59/) - Iswen brought the child to me and said bluntly, “Keep her as your maid.” The girl I met again was clean and tidy, and she had gained some weight since we last saw each other. However, she didn’t remember anything from her life before we met. Not even her own name. Thus, it became - [2349-chapter-58](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2349-chapter-58/) - “...Is there a new residence in the South?” It was a question I asked as cautiously as possible. However, Demian seemed irritated even by that, his brow furrowing deeply. “What?” “I was just wondering if there’s a man I need to marry…” Before I could finish my sentence, Demian shouted. “That’s not it!” He - [2348-chapter-53](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2348-chapter-53/) - “You might think you were hated because you resemble your father, but some mothers love even the children born from fear.” In reality, Lerisa cherished her daughter like her own life. Even though it would have been much safer to simply hand over her daughter rather than instigate a rebellion, she never gave up. - [2346-chapter-54](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2346-chapter-54/) - Ethel is Merwen's castle. Now that I think about it, I recall the time when Sezna came to confront me about Merwen being detained. It seemed to be related to embezzlement, but I couldn't remember the details, as I hadn't heard them clearly. Still, isn't it a bit much to hold a trial over - [2343-chapter-52](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2343-chapter-52/) - After that, many things happened, but Merwen remained unshaken. She executed her revenge step by step. She was neither anxious nor flustered. Confusion was something only those who did not know which direction to take experienced. When the time came to put a period to her revenge, Merwen intended to have an open and - [2341-chapter-57](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2341-chapter-57/) - Demian looked out the window of the carriage. Now that they had clearly entered the North, the types of trees passing by outside had changed. He blinked with the eye that remained on the right side. The reduced field of vision felt awkward. Having lived his entire life with both eyes, it took time - [2340-chapter-56](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2340-chapter-56/) - “……Thus, the trial concludes.” The nature of Raslet, the underground courtroom. Ben, who was appointed to preside in place of the head of the family sitting above and looking down, declared this. No sooner had his words fallen than one of the lords seated in the place where the accused was confined shouted at - [2339-chapter-55](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2339-chapter-55/) - “Are you really okay with not attending the trial?” Apple asked while checking my belongings. Since the last time Sioden visited, Apple had organized my items and made a list by category. It was because of what he had left behind. “It would be better to move your room to the main building after - [2335-chapter-51](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2335-chapter-51/) - Major events that change the course of life usually come without warning. The storm that hit Wendy's life was no different. It was the day before Wendy's seventh birthday, and it had been just over ten days since Lerox had left the Ethel Residence. That night, the castle was strangely noisy, enough to wake - [2334-chapter-50](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2334-chapter-50/) - After encountering Wendy in the hallway, Lerox visited the Ethel territory several times. Each time, Hesen’s expression grew darker. Dark enough for Wendy, who was about to turn seven that winter, to notice. "Papa, do you dislike His Grace the Duke?" Wendy asked while taking a stroll in the garden, nestled in Hesen’s arms. - [2333-chapter-49](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2333-chapter-49/) - Merwen was imprisoned in the North Tower, where high-ranking criminals were usually kept. Sioden had been here before. Just as Merwen wasn’t the only prisoner with powerful connections, this wasn’t his first time punishing a criminal with ways to escape. The tower’s prison was much more comfortable than the last time he had seen - [2332-chapter-48](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2332-chapter-48/) - Dreams always begin with warmth like spring sunshine. "Wendy." A warm hand patting her daughter’s back. A gentle smile, and an embrace that seemed especially comforting when directed at her daughter. A voice that tickled her ears like a gentle breeze. "I love you, Wendy." When Wendy heard those sweetest words in the world - [2331-chapter-47](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2331-chapter-47/) - Sezna trembled with anxiety. "His Grace found the ledger." "The ledger, the one you used to keep track of how much money you embezzled years ago, right?" Merwen asked brightly, her voice so clear it sounded cheerful. There was indeed a hint of amusement, but Sezna, focused on the hardship before her, didn’t notice. - [2330-chapter-46](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2330-chapter-46/) - Late in the evening, a servant's voice was heard from outside the door. "Mr. Ailac has arrived." Ailac is Luke's surname. Apple finished preparing the room for visitors by slightly lowering the canopy and draping a shawl over my shoulders. Although I already knew Luke had come to the door, I wasn't entirely at - [2329-chapter-45](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2329-chapter-45/) - The man called my name, his face pale. "Iella." I hadn't said anything wrong, yet his reaction was as if he'd heard something terrible. Does he pity me? That thought struck me as I tried to find a reason for his unusual behavior. The thought that Sioden pitied me didn't sit well with me. - [2328-chapter-44](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2328-chapter-44/) - Within the castle, there were many who mocked his betrayal—or his failures. Most of them were friends of Lerox, who wished for him to marry Merwen and still hadn't given up on that desire. "It seems the family head is too young and made a poor judgment." Some elders said it to his face. - [2327-chapter-43](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2327-chapter-43/) - Sezna felt a pang of relief inside when she sensed the family head hesitate. Yes, when she thought about it, the family head had always been generous to his mother. Wasn't the man who had treated his father like a stray dog until his death the one who had endured all the insults his - [2326-chapter-42](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2326-chapter-42/) - Sezna, as if waiting for the opportunity, tried to seize control of the conversation. "Then..." I cut her off, not giving her the chance to steer the conversation as she intended. "But there was clear evidence that I did it." That was also why I couldn't refute it to Sioden. Because I couldn't find - [2325-chapter-41](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2325-chapter-41/) - Understanding Sezna's words wasn't difficult. Two years ago, so much happened to me. Among those various incidents, my brief closeness with Sioden was the most striking. In the early days of our marriage, Sioden overlooked the malicious incidents at Rowen, attributing them to the usual noises of newlywed life. While I didn't hear it - [2324-chapter-40](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2324-chapter-40/) - Iswen had mocked and ignored me at will, regardless of whether anyone was watching. ‘It means don’t believe that outsiders will be any different, since even your family can’t fulfill your desires.’ Even when he said that, we were alone in the room. Even then, no one forced Iswen to crush my spirit. Yet - [2323-chapter-39](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2323-chapter-39/) - Sioden didn’t stay long. As soon as he left, Apple entered, carrying medicine used to treat scarred tissue. Approaching the bed, I said to Apple, "He apologized to me." Apple, immediately understanding who "he" was, looked dubious. "…Lord Raslet, you mean?" ‘Miss, let me apply the medicine.’ Apple gently turned my shoulder. I turned - [2322-chapter-38](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2322-chapter-38/) - When Sioden entered the room, I gestured for Apple to leave. Apple, ever perceptive about me, silently retreated to the next room without a word, though she cast a worried glance back. I wanted to be with Apple, but it was better not to have her around when Sioden was present. If a conflict - [2321-chapter-37](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2321-chapter-37/) - "If not for the position as the lady of Raslet, Iella would have been the Crown Princess." As Demian began pacing the room again, he suddenly turned his head sharply. Iswen spoke calmly, even though he could feel his brother's fierce glare. "If she had become the Crown Princess, she would have had to - [2320-chapter-36](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2320-chapter-36/) - Entering Lerox's bedroom, Sioden turned the chair beside the bed and sat. He didn't want to face his father. Turning his back to his father, Sioden said, "I believe you know how the North deals with bastards." Unlike the South, which was lenient towards illegitimate children, the North eliminated illegitimate children as soon as - [2319-chapter-35](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2319-chapter-35/) - Merwen was currently imprisoned in the castle. Although suspected of being one of the conspirators with the Rowens, there was still no conclusive evidence. Therefore, she was prevented from returning to Etnel, based on a confirmed charge. It wasn't difficult to uncover her involvement in the previous embezzlement of funds. "The crime is clear, - [2318-chapter-34](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2318-chapter-34/) - When I opened my eyes again, I was in the bedroom. Sioden was clearly by my bedside. Although his body was partially obscured by the canopy as he sat in the chair, I recognized him at first glance. Even seeing just a part of him, his tall frame with long legs and the prominent - [2317-chapter-33](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2317-chapter-33/) - I had to choose my words carefully. That was my first thought. I didn't know what kind of trouble I might get into if I said the wrong thing. When I hesitated to speak, Sioden looked at Apple. I thought Apple might be held responsible for my being outside. Before that could happen, I - [2316-chapter-32](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2316-chapter-32/) - "I… I must be dead." Though my body felt too heavy and my head throbbed as if it would split, it was a reasonable assumption. Apple was startled and denied it. "What are you talking about?" "If I weren't dead, you wouldn't be here." It was an expulsion order issued by Sioden himself, no - [2315-chapter-31](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2315-chapter-31/) - "Is Capren's daughter well?" The emperor, pulled down from his golden throne, blurted out the question as a sword was raised above his head. Sioden, about to behead him, hesitated. The Emperor laughed, as if expecting this hesitation. Sioden suppressed the urge to kick the man in the back and asked, "What do you - [2314-chapter-30](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2314-chapter-30/) - It felt as if ice-cold water had been poured over him. A letter from Capren Rowen, expressing his desire to see his daughter, had arrived in the North just days before Merwen's Glasyr died. Since Iella married him, Capren had subtly indicated his hope that she would be sent back to the South. Sioden - [2313-chapter-29](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2313-chapter-29/) - "Why are you doing this here?" Iella's lips moved, but no words came out. Sioden did not wait any longer. He grabbed her wrist. The skin that lightly brushed against his under her clothing was warm and soft. As he led her out into the hallway, Sioden realized they had nowhere to go. The - [2312-chapter-28](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2312-chapter-28/) - Sioden was not unaware of that fact. Thus, when he heard the sound of the bride entering the ceremony hall, he did not look back. He did not want to make a foolish choice. He felt Iella come to stand beside him. His nerves were on edge. He could hear the sound of Rowen’s - [2311-chapter-27](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2311-chapter-27/) - There were not many people at Evelyn's funeral. Most of her family was in the South. Sioden wrote them a letter to inform them of her passing, but he received nothing more than a formal response. The vassals from the north attended, but even they had not come to honor Evelyn’s last moments. Through - [2310-chapter-26](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2310-chapter-26/) - In that year, Sioden postponed the return schedule. It was the first time he had done so since leaving the castle. He also stopped going out at night to drink. Instead, he spent that time sitting in front of the piano, trying to get accustomed to the keys. Although he didn’t possess a soul - [2309-chapter-25](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2309-chapter-25/) - Evelyn had been quite averse to her son during that time. The fact that she had only one child did not affect her. The reason was that half of that one son came from a man she despised. In his childhood, Sioden, who did not even know that Evelyn hated Lerox, had tried to - [2308-chapter-24](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2308-chapter-24/) - Sioden followed Merwen into the castle. The woman skillfully commanded the household staff. "Sezna, could you go and prepare the tea?" He heard her instructing the maid who had accompanied Evelyn to the north. Since Evelyn's death, Merwen had gained full authority over Raslet's internal affairs. It was a right bestowed by Lerox. They - [2307-chapter-23](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2307-chapter-23/) - Unlike Rhys, who was confused and unable to accept reality, Ben began to prepare for the future. "I’ve heard there’s a tailor who primarily makes clothes for Lady Rowen. I will order several women’s outfits suitable for the northern weather from that tailor’s shop." Rhys, who was listening nearby, interjected. "Lady? Advisor, do you - [2306-chapter-22](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2306-chapter-22/) - "His Imperial Majesty requests that you remain until the last day of the banquet." This was the response to his statement about returning to his territory. Sioden looked down at the palace attendant, who was waiting for his reply with their head bowed. He usually tried not to express his feelings through actions, but - [2305-chapter-21](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2305-chapter-21/) - He took it as a rejection. It must have been hard to outright say that he didn’t want to meet anymore, so he avoided the situation. It was disappointing, but it was his own fault for not capturing her interest sufficiently. Having promised Ella to keep quiet, Sioden didn't tell anyone about that night's - [2304-chapter-20](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2304-chapter-20/) - That day, Sioden really talked a lot. He didn’t know he was such a talkative person. She was a woman whose interest in him was uncertain. Yet, just for the reason that he wanted to keep conversing with her, he found himself answering her questions one after another. If his assistant Ben had seen - [2303-chapter-19](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2303-chapter-19/) - Chapter 19 The emperor was pleased with Capren's words. He looked down from the throne with his cloudy light blue eyes and asked, "What do you think?" Sioden found it difficult to answer immediately. Kneeling and bowing one’s head was a loyalty oath that had existed in the past but was now obsolete. It was - [2302-chapter-18](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2302-chapter-18/) - "Luke! Luke Ailac!" The military doctor, Luke, who accompanied the lord every time he went to battle, rushed out of the tent at the sound of his name being called. "Your Excellency!" The young lord was running toward his tent. In the lord's arms was a woman with bright blonde hair and a slender - [2301-chapter-17](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2301-chapter-17/) - Catching a cold is a common ailment for outsiders living in Raslet. It was due to the bitter cold that was difficult to endure unless you were born and raised in the north. The term "common ailment" also meant it wasn’t serious. You might catch it occasionally, suffer through it, but ultimately, you wouldn’t - [2300-chapter-16](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2300-chapter-16/) - "I do not expect you to apologize to Merwen." His blue eyes were already filled with disappointment toward me. "Just admit that this is something you did." "But, I really didn’t do it!" I know. It was reckless to shout at that moment. Even if I spoke gently and calmly, the chances of Sioden - [2299-chapter-15](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2299-chapter-15/) - Around that time, I had become accustomed to my position within the Raslet family. No one in the Raslet household liked me. The internal affairs, which were usually the responsibility of the lord's wife, were so riddled with distrust that I couldn't even touch them, and whenever there were gifts or letters from Rowen, - [2298-chapter-14](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2298-chapter-14/) - One of the two knights spoke in a trembling voice. "Your Excellency." Sioden didn’t even look back at him and replied. "Everyone seems to have a lot to say." "...Since it has come to this, I have something to tell you." "I meant shut your mouth." Still not giving them a glance, Sioden strode - [2297-chapter-13](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2297-chapter-13/) - It was the white fur I had ordered along with the wedding dress. After coming to the north, I couldn't find it no matter how hard I searched, and when I asked why, I was told that Iswen had taken care of it separately. ‘The outer garment was taken by the young lord.’ That - [2296-chapter-12](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2296-chapter-12/) - When Sioden turned to look at me in response to those words, I realized that he was even more handsome than I remembered. His forehead, exposed and pale, contrasted with the dark wedding attire, giving him a more mature appearance than usual. His gaze and eyes seemed deeper than I had known, and above - [2295-chapter-11](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2295-chapter-11/) - There was only one person who could be addressed as "Lord" here. As the door opened and Sioden entered, Paiden greeted him with a haughty and exaggerated gesture. Sioden passed by him as if he were invisible and approached me. He glanced around at the luxury items scattered everywhere and asked, "Did you live - [2294-chapter-10](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2294-chapter-10/) - Sezna quickly excused herself, saying she had work to do. Left alone, Merwen showed me and Paiden around the castle. She spoke softly. "Sioden is away for a while. He has a foster home he supports, and there was a problem there, so he went to inspect it." She looked at Paiden, as if - [2293-chapter-09](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2293-chapter-09/) - "You’ve arrived, Your Highness." As I sat across from Aiden, I recalled the words Demian had said just before I entered the drawing room. Demian had stopped me as I was going to greet the crown prince, saying, "Be sure to flatter him. Just because the marriage with the crown prince has fallen through - [2292-chapter-08](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2292-chapter-08/) - The next day, my father sent me to the most famous tailor in the capital under the pretext of fitting a wedding dress. The party consisted of four people: Iswen, the advisor to the duke; Paiden; and my attendant maid, Apple. Demian, who had been beaten up by Iswen yesterday, locked himself in his - [2291-chapter-07](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2291-chapter-07/) - Sioden was dressed in northern-style black attire. Seeing him approach with a surprised expression, I couldn't help but smile. "How have you been? I thought you had returned to the North, but you're still here in the palace. I'm sorry I couldn't return the brooch properly last time." A few words crossed my mind, - [2290-chapter-06](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2290-chapter-06/) - That day, did I hear someone calling my name from behind? The sound of the rain was too heavy to be certain. Even if someone had called me, I wouldn't have been able to turn around. I couldn’t even remember in what state of mind I returned to my room. By the time I - [2289-chapter-05](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2289-chapter-05/) - "Why do you have that expression?" Demian's already fierce expression twisted even more as he looked at my face. He strode over and pointed a finger at my shoulder. "What is this?" Demian reached out and snatched something from my shoulder. What he tore away was the outer garment that Sioden had given me. - [2288-chapter-04](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2288-chapter-04/) - In the blink of an eye, my body lost balance and leaned forward. Just as my heart was about to drop, a strong arm wrapped around my waist. In an instant, I was standing on solid ground. Only after I regained my balance did Den let go of my hand and waist and ask, - [2287-chapter-03](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2287-chapter-03/) - "Please don’t feel awkward; it’s not that significant of a lineage." Then he must not be from Raslet. If Rowen is in the South, then the foremost power in the North is Raslet. Although there were rumors that the influence of the Raslet family had diminished since the passing of the previous Duke, there - [2286-chapter-02](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2286-chapter-02/) - Demian, with a brief bow as a minimum courtesy to the royal family, said to Aiden, "Your Highness, if it's not too much trouble, may I have my sister's hand? I've been waiting to dance with her for a second time since earlier." "Oh, Lord Rowen. If it’s you, I suppose I have no - [2285-chapter-01](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2285-chapter-01/) - The day I first met Sioden was the day of the harvest festival banquet held at the palace. My father, Capren Rowen, dressed me up in fashionable clothes and expensive jewelry before attending the banquet. Before pushing me into the banquet hall, my father roughly grabbed my arm. Then, with gentleness that contrasted with - [2284-chapter-60](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2284-chapter-60/) - Chapter 60. It was one mountain after another. I had expected them to treat Jay with reverence since they had dragged him off like a captive, but no. They planned to burn him alive and send him to the sky. It was a stupid and horrifying thought. “Okay… sending you to the sky, when exactly - [2283-chapter-59](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2283-chapter-59/) - Chapter 59. We made full preparations before going back into the cannibals’ den. We smeared dirt on our faces and covered our bodies with leaves like a ghillie suit. On top of that, we boldly left the backpack behind. After all, if we died, we wouldn’t use it anyway, and there was no point carrying - [2282-chapter-58](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2282-chapter-58/) - Chapter 58. “……” After the gunshot, an eerie silence settled over the entire forest. Even the hostile natives froze stiff at the sight of this foreign weapon, unable to make a single move. The first to break the icy atmosphere was Jay. He rushed straight to me and cupped my face in his hands. “Are - [2281-chapter-57](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2281-chapter-57/) - Chapter 57. Spears rained down on us from behind like a storm. Just how many of them were chasing us? I instinctively knew that if we were caught, we’d end up boiling alive in one of their giant cauldrons. One of them was even wearing a human scalp like a mask, and another had on - [2280-chapter-56](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2280-chapter-56/) - Chapter 56. Engaged in idle chatter as we walked, we fell silent the moment we reached the shelter. It was as if we had rehearsed it. Our thoughts froze at the devastating sight. Everything was broken, scattered, and overturned. The shelter we had built together during our time stranded on this deserted island was completely - [2279-chapter-55](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2279-chapter-55/) - Chapter 55. …Grateful for the great grace of salvation, I pledge my loyalty with all sincerity, and resolve to devote my whole body. Grant me unshakable courage. This is not a filthy and vile revenge, but justice to protect the world righteously. Envelop me with Your wings as You have promised, and guard me so - [2278-chapter-54](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2278-chapter-54/) - Chapter 54. The speed of his fingers thrusting inside me was getting faster. The splashing sounds mixed with my moans, scattering in every direction. As I flinched and trembled, Jay lifted my hips. His cock rubbed between my parted legs, slowly beginning to enter. The moment his glans was fully swallowed, a moan erupted from - [2277-chapter-53](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2277-chapter-53/) - Chapter 53. "Just sing the national anthem. Stop this." "Aren't you cold?" "Don't try to tempt me with weird things." "Looks like it's working." "..." "Wait, are you serious?" Jay let out a surprised laugh. His laughter, a gentle ripple against my neck, sent a ticklish vibration across my skin. I couldn't understand why I - [2276-chapter-52](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2276-chapter-52/) - Chapter 52. The delusion that we could overcome a crisis with brilliant survival strategies, like in a movie. That was the cause of failure. Jay and I crouched under a jutting hill, trying to take shelter from the rain. Drip, drip, drip. A thin stream of water trickled down from somewhere and soaked my bangs. - [2275-chapter-51](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2275-chapter-51/) - Chapter 51. Whoosh. The fire caught in the darkness, revealing Jay’s face. I picked up a stone that fit in my palm and scratched a mark on the cave wall. It was the fifth day since we’d been trapped inside. Suho still hadn’t recovered his strength, and the meager food that had kept us going - [2272-chapter-53](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2272-chapter-53/) - Edith has worked at the clinic for more than seven years and has never seen a patient complain of symptoms like Walter’s. He said his chest felt strained. However, as she stood there, watching him slowly take his shirt off, she somehow began to understand more and more. She wondered if it was these chest - [2270-chapter-52](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2270-chapter-52/) - The moment the razor-sharp blade headed towards him, Walter twisted his lips into a smile. “Persistent despite repeated failures.” He swung his sword, which was imbued with magical power, at the assassin. 『 The sword is a bit short to reach me... Ugh!』 The assassin, who had underestimated the length of Walter’s sword, was thrown to the - [2271-chapter-90-the-legend-of-perfection-anything-is-possible](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2271-chapter-90-the-legend-of-perfection-anything-is-possible/) - Chapter 90 The Legend of Perfection: Anything is Possible! The fangs of the Nine-Headed Willow contain deadly poison. Each bite injects a potent venom into Lu Jiu's body. However, for Lu Jiu, who possesses seven top-tier physical strengths, these venoms have no effect. The suppressive effect of the Heavenly Desolate World-Suppressing Body will suppress toxicity. - [2269-chapter-89-xuanxian-pass-nine-headed-willow](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2269-chapter-89-xuanxian-pass-nine-headed-willow/) - Chapter 89 Xuanxian Pass, Nine-Headed Willow Chapter 89 Xuanxian Pass, Nine-Headed Willow The door was pushed open by Lu Jiu. Seeing Cang Qingzi and Xu Taiyi, they were all somewhat tempted. Lu Jiu said calmly, "Don't even think about it. Even if I push the door open, you still can't get in." What is the - [2267-chapter-51](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2267-chapter-51/) - Meanwhile, instead of heading to the capital, Elizabeth and her accomplices were staying at a hotel in Fortrion. Although she had sent assassins to attack the Militia Force a few times, they were unable to inflict fatal blows because Walter, who had unleashed his magic, managed to hold his ground, preventing any fatal blows. “If - [2268-chapter-88-the-gate-of-the-mysterious-immortals](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2268-chapter-88-the-gate-of-the-mysterious-immortals/) - Chapter 88 The Gate of the Mysterious Immortals The old woman in the coffin sat up, looking around in confusion, her eyes still somewhat bewildered. Li Hanlu stepped forward and explained to her. I learned Lu Jiu's identity from her. The old woman quickly stood up and knelt down in worship before Lu Jiu, saying, - [2266-chapter-87-the-sun-and-moon-bear-witness](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2266-chapter-87-the-sun-and-moon-bear-witness/) - Unable to leave the Celestial Palace? Master Tianbao, the young people from the Heavenly Sword Realm, including Xu Taiyi and Cang Qingzi, all couldn't help but change their expressions. "Is the door we came in through also the way out?" Master Tianbao asked Bai Su. Bai Su ignored him, her gaze fixed on the black - [2265-chapter-86-trial-of-breaking-through-the-formation](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2265-chapter-86-trial-of-breaking-through-the-formation/) - Upon hearing that there was danger, and that it was a life-or-death ordeal comparable to becoming an immortal, they immediately understood. Cang Qingzi, the old tortoise, shook his head repeatedly. The treasure may be wonderful, but you also need to be lucky enough to get it! In his life, this old tortoise did not seek - [2264-chapter-85-rule-change](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2264-chapter-85-rule-change/) - Lu Jiu acquired both celestial treasures from the second celestial palace. Lu Jiu then ignored whether Tianbao Shangren and the young man from the Heavenly Sword Realm were following with their entourage, and continued walking straight ahead, intending to visit the next immortal palace. The third celestial palace contains three treasures. However, its rules differ - [2263-chapter-84-the-immortal-king-observing-the-sun](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2263-chapter-84-the-immortal-king-observing-the-sun/) - Seeing Lu Jiu put away that futon-shaped magical treasure. The people of Tianbao were heartbroken; it felt like their hearts were bleeding. The young man from the Heavenly Sword Realm only just realized that the treasure that Master Tianbao obtained in the first Immortal Palace was this thing, and his eyes narrowed involuntarily. After all, - [2262-chapter-83-the-immortal-treasure-of-the-futon](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2262-chapter-83-the-immortal-treasure-of-the-futon/) - I thought it would be a fierce and epic battle. The result was that it started quickly and ended quickly. The feeling was like a giant dragon passing through the forest, and a group of ants jumping up to devour it. As a result, the dragon roared and shook its body, shattering all the ants - [2261-chapter-82-a-devastating-counterattack](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2261-chapter-82-a-devastating-counterattack/) - It must be said that those who can cultivate to the Celestial Immortal realm are all shrewd and experienced individuals, capable of both yielding and standing firm. It wasn't just the Cloud Cultivation Sect that was being made things difficult. The Xuan Tian Sacred Sect of the Glazed Realm, which had previously clashed with Lu - [2260-chapter-81-the-old-turtle-sets-up-a-stall](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2260-chapter-81-the-old-turtle-sets-up-a-stall/) - As a person of principle. In Lu Jiu's view, he could have easily killed these people and taken their treasures for himself. But he chose to charge admission. Is there anyone in the world as reasonable as him? It has to be said that the bloodline of the Lu family is truly unbroken. Back in - [2259-chapter-50](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2259-chapter-50/) - “There was nothing special. Everyone knew that Sophia and Whitman had secretly indulged themselves with the money set aside for repairing the river embankment, and the prediction of heavy rain next year was widely known as well.” Of course, it was she who asked Benjamin to spread awareness that there was no budget to repair - [2258-chapter-49](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2258-chapter-49/) - “What’s the matter? Are you alright?” Walter reflexively asked as soon as Edith frowned. Before she could even think, her body had already moved to the seat next to her. “No. I just feel a bit queasy.” Edith replied vaguely. Walter quietly put the food she had not even touched into a corner, then opened - [2257-chapter-48](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2257-chapter-48/) - 『 Could it be that Edith was captured and harmed by the angry residents and the militia?』 Isabelle, surprised, immediately approached Elizabeth and asked. “Elizabeth, you couldn’t find Edith? What do you mean by an imprisonment spell?” As far as she knew, there was no reason for Elizabeth to be looking for Edith. They had no special - [2256-chapter-62](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2256-chapter-62/) - Vivianne, who had not attended the luncheon, finished her meal in her room. After the servants came to collect the empty dishes, she enjoyed a comfortable sunbath under the autumn afternoon light. Sophie, ever full of complaints, grumbled constantly. “No matter how I think about it, this was intentional.” Vivianne, who had been reclining in - [2255-chapter-5](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2255-chapter-5/) - 05. I’d like to take a shower. Originally, Trestia had planned to leave his lair and drop her off anywhere convenient. A fraudulent contract was still a contract. Since it was a “Dragon’s Protection” contract, all he had to do was make sure she didn’t die. Strictly speaking, the contract only required him to preserve - [2254-chapter-4](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2254-chapter-4/) - 04. Now you’ve had your cry, child! The head maid looked at Marianne with a baffled expression. The Dragon Connector was first in ceremonial rank in the entire Scotra Empire. Whether Beatrice was illegitimate or not, once she had been chosen as a Dragon Connector, it should have become even harder to act against her. - [2253-chapter-3](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2253-chapter-3/) - 03. The Wicked Sister Marianne Beatrice, her face drained of all color, ran outside. Her breath caught in her throat as she sprinted toward the Abandoned Court behind the annex. The garden, which had been a refreshing green space just that morning, had turned into a devastated ruin. The grass had dried up into yellow - [2252-chapter-2](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2252-chapter-2/) - 02. The Lonely Princess Beatrice Beatrice burst into tears, not because she had harmed the empire through a mistaken contract, but because she had disappointed her older sister. “Ah… Sister, what do I do? I ruined everything.” Forgetting all dignity befitting a princess, she sat right down on the floor and began to sob. Trestia - [2251-chapter-1](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2251-chapter-1/) - 01. You should have told me if it wasn’t, if it wasn’t! A hall so vast that an entire mansion could easily fit inside. With no decorations, not even a single piece of furniture, it felt even wider and emptier. At the center of the hall sat an enormous golden chair that didn’t match the - [2249-chapter-34](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2249-chapter-34/) - "You're extorting me!" Jiang Wanxing stood opposite Su Wuji, seething. "Three hundred and fifty thousand? How could your sofa possibly be that expensive?" Su Wuji pulled up a picture from the official website. "Take a good look. Isn't it exactly the same? It's an import from Italy!" "Can't I just wash it for you?" Jiang - [2095-chapter-33-the-clingy-major-jiang](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2095-chapter-33-the-clingy-major-jiang/) - “Pervert!” Su Wuji looked down at himself, furious. "Hey, I'm covering myself with my hands here, can you even see a damn thing?" …Well, she could see a little hair. Su Wuji felt a strange mix of grief and indignation. A woman had barged into his room, judged the state of his development, and critiqued - [2094-chapter-32-are-you-the-silvermoon-assassin](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2094-chapter-32-are-you-the-silvermoon-assassin/) - After Jiang Wanxing left, Su Wuji circled the block in his car, picked up Xiao Pang, and headed back to the Queen’s Bar. The vehicle rolled straight into the underground garage. This garage wasn’t open to the public. To get in, you had to pass through two layers of remote-controlled gates. The reason Su Wuji - [2093-chapter-31-the-scent-of-gunpowder-on-his-hands](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2093-chapter-31-the-scent-of-gunpowder-on-his-hands/) - The off-road vehicle screeched to a violent halt. The driver flung open the door and all but tumbled out, face white as paper, panic etched across every feature. It was Su Wuji. “I… did I hit someone?” He shuffled over to the Ducaro hunter sprawled on the ground, stared at the blood streaking the man’s - [2035-chapter-30](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2035-chapter-30/) - “This woman’s insane! She came all the way from the capital just to steal my car?” Su Wuji scowled as he watched Jiang Wanxing hijack his ride and vanish down the street. From the other side, Xiao Pang screeched up in a domestic off-road SUV, leaned out the window, and waved a long rectangular box. - [2034-chapter-29](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2034-chapter-29/) - An hour later, two security guards returned from the police station after giving their witness statements. "Boss, her name’s Jiang Wanxing. As soon as she got in the squad car, she flashed her officer ID," one of the guards reported. "She’s with the Capital Military District—a major." Su Wuji was idly shuffling mahjong tiles as - [2033-chapter-28](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2033-chapter-28/) - Jiang Wanxing moved like a blade wrapped in silk—every line of her figure a seamless blend of natural grace and honed strength. Her long legs in particular carried a kind of spring-loaded tension, the vitality of someone sculpted by both genetics and grit. Her face was delicate, yet there was nothing fragile about her. That - [2032-chapter-27](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2032-chapter-27/) - Dealing with Xu Jiayan was giving Su Wuji a splitting headache. "Miss Mu is really exceptional," Xu Jiayan said, lips curled in a gentle smile. "But I won’t back down." Su Wuji gave her a look. "Hey, I just beat up your little brother. Shouldn’t you be pissed at me? Maybe even want revenge?" "Oh, - [2031-chapter-26](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2031-chapter-26/) - “Let go, let go, quick!” Su Wuji quickly pulled Xu Jiayan’s hands off him and backed away a large step, escaping the onslaught of softness. He then turned to look for Mu Qianyu, only to find that she had moved several steps away and was standing side-by-side with Xiao Yinlei. Mu Qianyu didn't react to - [2248-chapter-80-a-familiar-scene](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2248-chapter-80-a-familiar-scene/) - Criticism is one thing. However, Lu Jiu did not stop Cang Qingzi's actions. Whether or not Lu Jiu became the supreme ruler of the Six Realms, he didn't really care. However, when it was time to show his strength, he still needed to be more high-profile to avoid a lot of trouble. For example, right - [2247-chapter-79-the-old-tortoise-stood-up](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2247-chapter-79-the-old-tortoise-stood-up/) - Even a body refiner at the Immortal level couldn't shake it. This left the cultivators present in disbelief and at a loss for what to do. That makes sense. If the stone door were not difficult to open, why would those important figures, led by Master Tianbao, have proposed the condition of giving priority to - [2246-chapter-78-the-unmovable-stone-gate](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2246-chapter-78-the-unmovable-stone-gate/) - Seeing Cang Qingzi fawning over Lu Jiu like a lapdog, Xu Taiyi couldn't stand him. "The Supreme One is the number one person in the realm, yet you keep referring to the Azure Realm. Where does that place the Supreme One?" Xu Taiyi snorted and said, "Senior Cang Qingzi, I suggest you change your name. - [2245-chapter-77-the-mysterious-heavenly-sect-of-the-glazed-realm](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2245-chapter-77-the-mysterious-heavenly-sect-of-the-glazed-realm/) - The Divine Sword Battle Soul of the Northern Dipper Immortal Venerable once told Lu Jiu about it. The items left behind by the heavenly soldiers and generals can be taken. But we should know when to stop. Therefore, even though Lu Jiu has gained a certain degree of recognition from the Northern Dipper Immortal Venerable, - [2244-chapter-76-peerless-golden-immorta](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2244-chapter-76-peerless-golden-immorta/) - The group followed Lu Jiu for a while longer. Unable to contain his curiosity any longer, Xu Taiyi asked, "Supreme One, how did you do that?" Back in ancient times, Lu Jiu was also the supreme being of the ancient human race, a being worshipped by all living beings. But this old fellow Xu Taiyi - [2243-chapter-75-a-celestial-cauldron](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2243-chapter-75-a-celestial-cauldron/) - For Lu Jiu, the condensation of the power of his mind and will, and the nascent form of his battle spirit, was undoubtedly the greatest gain from this trip. Even if we gain nothing else from this Big Dipper Immortal Palace, the trip will still be worthwhile and of great significance! After all, this power - [2242-chapter-74-three-forms-of-battle-souls](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2242-chapter-74-three-forms-of-battle-souls/) - The power of the mind is mysterious and intangible. The basic powers possessed by cultivators, such as the power of laws and the power of their physique, can suppress, restrain, and seal evil spirits and demons to a certain extent. But they are unable to effectively control themselves. Now, Lu Jiu understands that the power - [2241-chapter-73-the-way-arises-from-the-heart](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2241-chapter-73-the-way-arises-from-the-heart/) - Lu Jiu stood at a distance with his hands behind his back, not venturing deeper into the space of this battlefield ruins. As more and more people entered this space, it meant that this battlefield ruin was the only way to reach the Beidou Immortal Palace. Since Lu Jiu did not take any action, the - [2240-chapter-72-a-corner-of-the-ancient-battlefield](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2240-chapter-72-a-corner-of-the-ancient-battlefield/) - As one of the representative forces in the Azure Realm, Zixia Divine Mountain owns more than just this one business in Stargazing City. Now, Xu Taiyi, as the founder of the Zixia Divine Mountain lineage, has sworn to become a vassal of the Lu family. Then wouldn't the properties of Zixia Divine Mountain become the - [2239-chapter-71-a-flick-of-the-finger-kills-a-true-god](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2239-chapter-71-a-flick-of-the-finger-kills-a-true-god/) - Faced with the assertive Lu Jiu, everyone in the shop remained silent. Taiyi Divine Ancestor sighed and said, "Ten thousand years ago, demons ravaged the land. Many of us, including myself, made contributions to the human race. You, Supreme One, do not deny this, do you?" "Of course I don't deny it." Lu Jiu nodded. - [2238-chapter-30](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2238-chapter-30/) - Chapter 30 Along with my shaking semicircular canals, the fragile fate of a reincarnated extra was also beginning to wobble. Is this where it ends? Like a protagonist facing their final battle, I muttered bitterly and let out a long sigh. I just wanted to stay as a frail duke’s daughter, secretly enjoying a comfortable - [2237-chapter-29](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2237-chapter-29/) - Chapter 29 When I gently pushed her back, Larienne approached Cheryl and held out her hand. Cheryl looked at Larienne’s hand wrapped in white light, then reluctantly took it. Watching them with satisfaction, I asked Cheryl, “Cheryl, you’re not planning to skip thanking Larienne, right?” At my words, Cheryl hesitated and looked at me. She - [2236-chapter-28](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2236-chapter-28/) - Chapter 28 In the original story, the villainess Cheryl Sidonia had planned to kill Larienne before the wedding. She changed her mind because she had struck some kind of deal with the emperor. The emperor intended to wipe out every member of House Toned once Larienne bore a child with healing power, and among them, - [2235-chapter-27](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2235-chapter-27/) - Chapter 27 I was staring at the three of them in confusion when Linus urged Larienne forward. “Lady Toned, quickly, Ayrbet…” “Yes, Your Grace. Ayrbet, I heard your seasickness is bad?” “No, seasickness isn’t the important… urk. I mean, what’s happening… urk. Please save me, Larienne.” No matter how serious the situation, you can only - [2234-chapter-26](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2234-chapter-26/) - Chapter 26 I thought Linus was about to burst into tears. A wrinkle formed between his brows, his jaw tightened as he clenched his teeth, and then he suddenly pulled me into his arms without warning. He let out a long breath by my ear and whispered like a sigh. “Ayrbet, I like you.” He - [2233-chapter-25](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2233-chapter-25/) - Chapter 25 It was late spring, the time of year when the midday sun was already growing warm. In the central garden of the imperial palace, where spring flowers bloomed in competition as if afraid to miss their moment, the wedding ceremony of Heide and Larienne was held. Everyone in attendance looked delighted. Except for - [2232-chapter-24](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2232-chapter-24/) - Chapter 24 It was a night when the short spring that had brought a brief peace to Dioretta was fading away. Tomorrow would be the wedding of Crown Prince Heide and Lady Larienne of House Toned. Late at night, Duke Meteus Toned quietly summoned his daughter, who was about to be married. Sitting across from - [2231-chapter-23](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2231-chapter-23/) - Chapter 23 A few days after Linus left for the Piction territory, a letter arrived from Larienne. She asked to meet at a famous dessert café in Arendel, and wondering what was going on this time, I went to the appointed place. As soon as she saw me, she apologized again. “I’m sorry for calling - [2230-chapter-22](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2230-chapter-22/) - Chapter 22 The next day, Father returned home just in time for dinner after attending something called a Privy Council meeting. He was always busy with various duties, but he tried to have dinner at home whenever possible. It was his own effort to spend time with me. At first, eating across from a father - [2229-chapter-21](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2229-chapter-21/) - Chapter 21 I watched the retreating Duke Duncan and shook my head, and the man who had already returned to his sweet Linus self asked me, “Goodness, that surprised me. Were you really thinking of dueling that man?” “Of course not. I’m someone so fragile that even a spring night breeze could knock me over. - [2228-chapter-20](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2228-chapter-20/) - Chapter 20 Linus arrived right on time to pick me up. As always, his startlingly beautiful face and honey-sweet smile drew delighted gasps from the maids. Father even came out personally to see me off on my first date and offered Linus a handshake. “Duke Piction, we meet again.” “Duke Titanoa. Thank you for allowing - [2227-chapter-19](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2227-chapter-19/) - Chapter 19 Larienne glanced around the room as if worried someone might be listening, then lowered her voice. “At the three-way fork, you found the correct path as if you already knew it. And you knew where the giant spider monster was too, didn’t you?” “Well, that’s…” I did know. But I think she’s misunderstanding - [2226-chapter-18](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2226-chapter-18/) - Chapter 18 The day after my fruitless meeting with Himong, visitors lined up at the Titanoa ducal residence from early morning. The first was a servant from the Sidonia household. He set down five boxes wrapped in distinctly luxurious paper and bowed politely. “These are gifts from Count Sidonia for Lady Ayrbet.” “All of these?” - [2225-chapter-17](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2225-chapter-17/) - Chapter 17 Cheryl stared at the magic stone for a long while before stepping closer to me and asking, “You… no, young lady. What is your name? Which family are you from?” “I am Ayrbet Titanoa, Count Cheryl Sidonia.” “No need for ‘Count.’ Call me Cheryl. So you’re the young lady of House Titanoa? Then - [2224-chapter-16](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2224-chapter-16/) - Chapter 16 Cheryl set fire to the ant eggs, and Linus and Heide cut down the soldier ants. In the narrow burrows, the two of them had handled the ants well enough, but with the wider space and greater numbers, gaps appeared. One soldier ant slipped past Heide and lunged at Cheryl, who had been - [2223-chapter-15](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2223-chapter-15/) - Chapter 15 In terms of difficulty, the gap between A and C rank was as wide as the gap between a full scholarship and repeating a grade. The difficulty of clearing a C-rank dungeon and an A-rank dungeon was on completely different levels. Even a raid team composed of five S-rank awakened couldn’t confidently guarantee - [2222-chapter-14](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2222-chapter-14/) - Chapter 14 I staggered through another stretch of swirling confusion, but for now, I decided to focus on just one thing: getting out of this dungeon. With these S-rank non-awakened people around, defeating the Ant Queen would be like lying down and chewing gum. Whatever happened and whatever the reason, I could grab Himong by - [2221-chapter-13](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2221-chapter-13/) - Chapter 13 I tilted my head in confusion when Heide, who had been whispering with Cheryl, approached. He spoke in a calm tone as if trying to reassure Linus and me. “It must be unsettling to suddenly arrive in such a strange place, but do not worry too much. We will be able to return - [2220-chapter-12](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2220-chapter-12/) - Chapter 12 Ah, cute. How is this man even cute on top of everything else. I almost smiled without meaning to, but I turned my body to hide the corner of my mouth that kept twitching upward. Today of all days, I really cannot answer his question. Considering my unchanged circumstances, my father telling me - [2219-chapter-11](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2219-chapter-11/) - Chapter 11 A middle-aged man wearing the imperial crown and a young man dressed similarly entered the banquet hall together. Heide Axel Vesseris. With lemon-colored blond hair and deep green eyes, he looked like an idol. He was the crown prince of the Dioretta Empire and the male lead of this world. And the woman - [2218-chapter-10](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2218-chapter-10/) - Chapter 10 I barely suppressed the fierce curiosity urging me to dig into his past, then gently comforted Linus. “If you don’t have your memories, so what? You’re living as the Duke of Piction now, aren’t you? All you need is to live well from here on.” He had forgotten his past, and I had - [2217-chapter-9](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2217-chapter-9/) - Chapter 9 As if mesmerized, I reached out a hand, but Himong clasped his two front paws together and snapped his head up. Then, dodging the hand I was about to land on his bald spot, he leapt off the sofa with a spring. “Himong doesn’t have time to sit around like this, nya. I’ll - [2216-chapter-8](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2216-chapter-8/) - Chapter 8 I stared at Himong with my mouth hanging open, unable to figure out what to ask first. Himong shook his head at the sight of me, then plodded over to the sofa and sat down. “Come here, nya. Himong has a lot to discuss with Ayrbet-nya.” I also had plenty to discuss with - [2215-chapter-7](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2215-chapter-7/) - Chapter 7 It was only a verbal promise with nothing guaranteed beyond his words, but Linus didn’t seem like someone who would lie. And even if he turned out to be a liar who treated promises like dirt, there wasn’t anything I could do about it. What would I do, kill this sweet man to - [2214-chapter-6](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2214-chapter-6/) - Chapter 6 I nodded in admiration, though it wasn’t quite admiration, and Ruby spoke as if satisfied. “Of course this is the best. You look so beautiful, my lady.” “Thank you, Ruby.” “Then all that’s left is choosing a hairpin.” “Again? I think it’s already pretty as it is.” “Would a hairpin be too much? - [2208-prologue](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2208-prologue/) - Prologue Ruby Valpur, the head maid of House Titanoa. At fifteen, she was chosen as both the playmate and exclusive maid of Ayrbet Titanoa, the duke’s only child. She thought there could never be another girl this adorable in the world. Her cotton-candy-like pale pink hair, eyes shimmering brighter than embroidery jewels, and that innocent - [2213-chapter-5](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2213-chapter-5/) - Chapter 5 I let out a scoff and shook my head. “No way. I don’t know about the other rumors, but he definitely wasn’t a strange person.” “You met Duke Piction?” “Yeah. At the tea party earlier.” “What kind of person was he?” “He’s really handsome and really kind. He smiles a lot, picks up - [2212-chapter-4](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2212-chapter-4/) - Chapter 4 At my answer, Linus broke into a bright smile, showing his neatly aligned upper teeth, and seeing that, I felt like if he threw a ball, I might just fetch it for him. Still smiling, Linus asked again. “How about tomorrow?” “Sounds good!” I replied with a wide smile, and Linus showed another - [2211-chapter-3](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2211-chapter-3/) - Chapter 3 I silently offered Linus my deepest condolences for his terrible luck and shook my head. “I don’t think so.” If this truly was the world of The Butterfly Garden’s Secret Affair as I knew it, then dungeons and gates shouldn’t exist. Even if I generously assumed dungeons had begun appearing in this world - [2210-chapter-2](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2210-chapter-2/) - Chapter 2 I picked up the chubby cat and sprinted toward a secluded corner of the garden where no one would be around. I ran blindly in search of a deserted place, and then I collided head-on with someone who suddenly appeared from behind a large tree. “Ugh!” “Fnyang!” The cat slipped from my arms - [2209-chapter-1](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2209-chapter-1/) - Chapter 1 The scent of flowers tickled the tip of my nose, and beautiful music echoed softly in the air on this peaceful afternoon. Among the many gardens of the Dioretta Empire’s imperial palace, a tea party was underway in the Butterfly Garden, the one the Empress cherished the most. Listening to the young ladies - [2207-chapter-47](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2207-chapter-47/) - From the moment Edith heard Walter’s unique, sarcastic voice, she felt a mix of emotions. She was grateful that Walter had come to her aid in what had seemed like a hopeless situation. However, she now realized that he was in an even more dangerous situation than she was. In her mind, a scene unfolded - [2206-chapter-46](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2206-chapter-46/) - Then she recalled the layout of the secret passage she had discovered in the album. Given the size of the manor, she couldn’t remember all the details, but she was certain that there was a secret passage entrance in Sophia’s study. If she could reach that place, she could hide for a while until they - [2205-chapter-45](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2205-chapter-45/) - On the following day, as the sun was setting, Aizen headed to the central shopping street of the Fortrion Estate and sensed that the atmosphere was far from normal. [Sophia Fortrion’s Additional Charges] [Residents of the territory demanded executions] Articles in local newspapers, which were generally favorable to the feudal lords, called for the execution - [2204-chapter-44](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2204-chapter-44/) - “Commander, didn’t I tell you he’s really different from ordinary people?” Cassius spoke proudly as Reinhardt, who was walking alongside him, nodded with a satisfied expression. “Considering that it takes even the knights who have opened their auras half a year just to imbue their power into their swords, Walter is truly among the best - [2203-chapter-43](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2203-chapter-43/) - Just an hour ago, Hans received the news that Elizabeth, who usually showed no interest in him, was looking for him. “You mean the Second Lady?” Until that moment, it had mostly been Sophia who sought him out. Her main concern was whether he had interacted with Edith or not, and Hans would reassure her - [2202-chapter-42](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2202-chapter-42/) - “What do you mean, Walter has disappeared?” In the early dawn, Elizabeth pressed Aizen in a voice mixed with astonishment and anger. Aizen, who came to report after confirming several times that Walter had disappeared, was equally frustrated. “It’s exactly as I said. I think Walter is gone.” “Have you thoroughly searched the entire inside - [2201-chapter-61](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2201-chapter-61/) - If Preston’s Royal Palace and Golden Bay Palace were lofty sunflowers blooming through endless restraint and reflection, Neway’s Royal Palace was a lavish rose in full bloom, steeped in human luxury, pleasure, and unbridled indulgence. Among the lavish interior decorations, far removed from any notion of abstinence, were paintings that made Vivianne blush and statues - [2200-chapter-80](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2200-chapter-80/) - ‘No, what if someone comes in? Why didn't you even lock the door...!’ Blaming him for his lack of caution, she closed the door and quickly turned her gaze away. One would think I wouldn't be embarrassed by this after several years of marriage. However, throughout our marriage, he had always dressed neatly - [2199-chapter-79](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2199-chapter-79/) - ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 Evan quickly hid himself when he sensed his presence. ‘This damned territory.’ The already heavily guarded area had become even more intense. However, there is a reason Evan could not leave this place. ‘If I fail this time, my - [2198-chapter-78](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2198-chapter-78/) - ‘Who could it possibly be? The mastermind instigating the rebellion and targeting the royal family.’ Before my regression, the rebel leader led the execution of Emperor Fritz and inspired the populace to destroy the entire royal family. However, that person’s identity was shrouded in mystery, and I had to die without knowing who - [2197-chapter-77](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2197-chapter-77/) - 11: How the Duke Protects His Wife "What? How dare you—what right do you have?" Cornelia protested in disbelief. But Erich interrupted her and poured out his words first. "As your husband." Cornelia became serious, as if she were speechless, and then raised her voice. "What? Husband? Are you - [2196-chapter-76](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2196-chapter-76/) - Erich looked at her as if he couldn't believe it. “......Cornelia.” He thought she was dead. He had even jumped into the water to find her, searching the entire country just to recover her body. But whenever he couldn't find her, he was always engulfed by despair. He wanted to die countless - [2195-chapter-75](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2195-chapter-75/) - The soldiers were visibly taken aback by Erich's sudden change in attitude, but they quickly raised their voices. "Sir Chester, what are you doing right now?" "Do you think the Lord will stay quiet if she hears about this? It could escalate into a war between territories!" At the soldiers' words, Erich - [2194-chapter-74](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2194-chapter-74/) - ‘How on earth is this child...’ After a moment of surprise, Erich let out a hollow laugh. ‘The eye color is different.’ While the child in his dream had violet eyes, the child before him had blue eyes. ‘It seems I was mistaken again.’ Since he had mistaken Cornelia - [2193-chapter-73](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2193-chapter-73/) - ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 Demian woke up around the afternoon. "Where's Mom?" As soon as he woke up, he looked for Cornelia with a pouty face, and Sardin answered him in a way that wouldn’t make him feel uncomfortable. "Young master, the master - [2192-chapter-72](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2192-chapter-72/) - There was a checkpoint at the territory's entrance. ‘They seem to take public security quite seriously here.’ Approaching the gate, Erich presented his identification badge, revealing his affiliation and status. "Did you say you are Sir Chester from the Duke Blant’s household?" "Yes." If he had come as a - [2191-chapter-71](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2191-chapter-71/) - The next day, as I opened my eyes in the morning, I inadvertently smiled when I saw Demian. My baby was smiling brightly while sleeping. ‘What kind of good dream is making him smile like this?’ He looked so much happier than when he ate his favorite cheesecake. It was incredibly adorable. - [2190-chapter-70](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2190-chapter-70/) - No matter how much it was a dream, the description of the man that the child spoke of resembled someone too closely. As if he had seen him in person. 'No way.......' "Demian, have you ever seen that man somewhere other than in your dream?" At that moment, Demian pointed behind me. - [2189-chapter-69](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2189-chapter-69/) - ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 ☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓 Janet approached me quickly at my call. "Yes, madam. What can I do for you?" Janet’s voice and expression were kind. However, just a moment ago, she had been looking at Sardin with a wary gaze. ‘She must have - [2188-chapter-68](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2188-chapter-68/) - At Reinhardt's words, Marquis Arzen's eyes trembled. ‘How did he find out? No, since when did he know?' When he heard that Medelin had poisoned Cornelia, he thought his daughter was foolish. She should have handled it discreetly, without anyone knowing—just like he did. Despite thinking he had covered his tracks - [2187-chapter-67](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2187-chapter-67/) - "What are you doing here?" Bianca glared at Xenon with hostility, but Xenon responded with a smile. "I came for a visit since I have some business here." With an impatient gesture, Xenon signaled the guard, who nodded and stepped back. Xenon looked up and down at Bianca, frowning. "You - [2186-chapter-66](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2186-chapter-66/) - At first glance, she thought it was her son. However, the moment she saw the twisted look in his eyes, she knew he was the fake. "You!" At Bianca's voice, filled with rage, he smiled and continued speaking. "I was worried you might be too comfortable, but it seems you’ve - [2185-chapter-65](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2185-chapter-65/) - “Medelin Arzen, I’ve already completed the handwriting analysis of your letter. Do you still intend to play dumb?” Despite the Emperor’s sharp-edged tone, Medelin didn’t flinch. Unlike the Grand Madam, who had witnesses and solid evidence against her, Medelin’s letter was the only proof implicating her guilt. ‘And that alone isn’t - [2184-chapter-64](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2184-chapter-64/) - Eventually, the Emperor turned his gaze away from Erich and addressed the audience. “Marquis Philippe, tell us what you have discovered regarding the case.” Marquis Philippe bowed his head briefly before standing up. “Three weeks ago, on June 7th, Duchess Blant went out with her mother-in-law, Grand Madam Blant, and - [2183-chapter-63](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2183-chapter-63/) - Chester stared at the Duke with a horrified expression. ‘How could the duke...’ Erich Lennon Blant, a war hero. He was a steadfast commander who never lost his composure in any situation and was regarded as the Empire’s strongest swordsman, to the point of being called the Grim Reaper. But now, the - [2182-chapter-62](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2182-chapter-62/) - After Sardin disappeared to carry out my order, only Janet and I remained in the carriage. “Are you alright?” Janet inquired, her expression brimming with concern. I smiled at her. “Yes, better than ever.” A little while ago, I discarded an item that would give Erich hope. ‘The hope - [2181-chapter-61](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2181-chapter-61/) - “Are you serious? She’s your daughter!” When his wife raised her voice, Marquis Arzen sighed deeply. ‘Yes, it’s truly lamentable that my daughter is such a fool. If she’s going to kill a high-ranking person, she must do it perfectly without anyone finding out.’ Finally, the Marquis spoke coldly. “Even - [2180-chapter-60](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2180-chapter-60/) - I opened my mouth with a smile. "That's impossible. You are my knight escort. Besides, that cake is a gift for Parakel, so I really need it." Upon hearing that, Janet seemed to cheer up and smile. "Right? I knew you would never abandon me, someone who has sworn loyalty - [2179-chapter-59](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2179-chapter-59/) - "Your Grace, please stop this already." Despite Chester's plea, Erich remained impassive. Finally, Chester uttered the words he had held back all along. "You know, there's no chance the Madam is still alive!" Before he could finish speaking, Chester's body slammed to the ground. In an instant, Erich was pressing down - [2178-chapter-58](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2178-chapter-58/) - At the Duke's words, Medelin flinched for a moment before glaring at him. 'He doesn't have any evidence against me, anyway. I didn't directly try to kill Cornelia.' Yes, she had indeed encouraged the Grand Madam to sabotage the carriage, but it was ultimately the coachman who caused the damage. And that - [2177-chapter-57](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2177-chapter-57/) - The knight sensed something peculiar about Erich's unfamiliar appearance. The liege he knew, the Duke of Blant, was never one to get agitated; he always handled matters rationally and meticulously. But now, Erich's eyes in front of him were relentlessly fierce, like a raging beast. 'This doesn't look like the Lord at all.' - [2176-chapter-56](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2176-chapter-56/) - 'Has she fainted? She's not responding.’ But only for a moment, Medelin soon felt a sense of disappointment. 'Oh, how wonderful if that chandelier had fallen on that crow's head?' The jewelry shop's crystal chandelier was not large, but it weighed a lot, and if it had fallen on someone, - [2175-chapter-55](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2175-chapter-55/) - Meanwhile, Medelin arrived first at the designated meeting place: her family's jewelry store, Twinkle, where she was waiting for Cornelia and the Grand Madam. ‘I wonder how it’s going to turn out.’ Last night, Medelin received a letter from the Grand Madam stating that Cornelia had consumed all the herbal tea. And - [2174-chapter-54](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2174-chapter-54/) - ‘Yes, if it weren’t for my greed, I wouldn’t be living like this.’ Before, I lived without caring about other people’s opinions, even if I was called a crow. However, from the moment I coveted Erich, my freedom disappeared, and I slowly spiraled into a downfall, sinking into my own pit. And - [2173-awwl-chapter-53](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2173-awwl-chapter-53/) - ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚ The tea party, my first and last as the Duchess, ended successfully. “I had a truly enjoyable time today.” “Thank you for inviting us.” I replied with a smile to the words of the guests. “No, I’m the one who should be thankful.” I subtly spilled what happened with Medelin and the Grand Madam - [2172-awwl-chapter-52](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2172-awwl-chapter-52/) - Three days later, after having tea at the Duke’s mansion, Medelin entered the Duke’s mansion with the young ladies and ladies of the noble families she usually interacted with. “Where did you say the tea party would be held?” In response to one of the young ladies, Medelin smiled and replied, “It will be in - [2171-awwl-chapter-51](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2171-awwl-chapter-51/) - "Grand Madam, Medelin. It’s been a while.” The Grand Madam and Medelin nodded their heads and reciprocated Cornelia’s greeting. “Yes.” “Yeah, it’s been a while.” With that, Cornelia sat down with a smile. “So, what were you two talking about? Excluding me.” ‘She couldn’t have heard anything, could she?’ As Medelin was about to say - [2170-dvmm-chapter-50](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2170-dvmm-chapter-50/) - Having dealt with urgent matters, I quickly came to the Golden Garden and became uneasy after seeing the state of Apherium. "There are hardly any fully bloomed flowers, aren't there?" As it was a flower with robust vitality, it usually bloomed well without special care. The only issue was that the - [2169-dvmm-chapter-49](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2169-dvmm-chapter-49/) - By the time we had rescued all the survivors from the palace infirmary and given them first aid, the moon was already halfway up in the sky. I wanted to stay and take care of the patients, but Julion kept staring at me with an axe-like gaze, so I had no choice - [2168-dvmm-chapter-48](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2168-dvmm-chapter-48/) - "Natya, are you awake?" Descending from Natya's body, I first lifted her eyelids to check her pupils. The nobles who had been observing us with curious faces once again buzzed loudly. "Is she awake?" "I can't see what happened well." "Did such a shoddy treatment actually work?" "No - [2167-dvmm-chapter-47](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2167-dvmm-chapter-47/) - When Liliana left the garden, back at the banquet hall, the Empress' control was reaching its limit. "Why do we have to be confined like this, Your Majesty?" "The imperial palace is vast, yet all these nobles are supposed to be hiding as if they were dead just because a fire - [2166-dvmm-chapter-46](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2166-dvmm-chapter-46/) - "Oh, so you're saying she's awake?" "That's the umpteenth time you've asked me that, Sir Ares." "That's because it's absurd! I haven't seen that woman but......." Gulp. Ares had been saying the same thing ever since he heard the whole story from me. Part of me wanted to - [2165-dvmm-chapter-45](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2165-dvmm-chapter-45/) - 'How dare you...' Her fists clenched involuntarily. At that moment, the crown princess' words flashed through her mind. [When the time comes, you'll find out. Think carefully and act. Will your parents hope you somehow survive, or do you want to die pathetically trying to protect your honor?] Damn - [2164-dvmm-chapter-44](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2164-dvmm-chapter-44/) - Hemion was full of questions from the moment she regained consciousness. At first, she was surprised to be alive and wondered who saved her, and then she learned that this place was the Crown Princess' Palace by listening to the outside sounds. 'Why am I here.......' Unable to grasp the - [2163-dvmm-chapter-43](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2163-dvmm-chapter-43/) - "Julion, I need to get closer." First, I had to check the condition of the man who had been employed by Roxis. I hope he's still breathing. "You can't walk there with those feet." Julion said abruptly and picked me up as is. "No, I'm fine......." "You're - [2162-dvmm-chapter-42](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2162-dvmm-chapter-42/) - Roxis seized his sword, which was partially damaged. Ares staggered to his feet and spat out blood. "You're late, Your Highness." His hair, which he'd tied up earlier, was untied again, and he even had the ends cut off at a funny angle. Julion, examining Ares' appearance, clicked his - [2161-dvmm-chapter-41](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2161-dvmm-chapter-41/) - Upon entering the room, the broken bed immediately drew my attention. It was where Hemion Martin had been lying asleep. Naturally, she wasn't lying on the broken bed. Then I looked around the room. There was a long knife mark on the wall, and the wall connecting to the - [2160-dvmm-chapter-40](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2160-dvmm-chapter-40/) - Natya was a lady from Baron Kemerot. Despite being a lady-in-waiting, she chose to stay behind at the palace, claiming that she was too shy to stand in the ballroom. I felt a bit disappointed; she had taken the time to dress me up beautifully but chose not to enjoy the party herself. - [2159-dvmm-chapter-39](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2159-dvmm-chapter-39/) - "His Imperial Highness, the Crown Prince, and Her Imperial Highness, the Crown Princess, have arrived!" With the booming announcement of the attendant, the doors of the banquet hall swung open. My eyes were blinded by the brilliant light, and for a moment I felt dizzy. I relied on Julion's hand to - [2158-dvmm-chapter-38](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2158-dvmm-chapter-38/) - "Hey, did you hear about yesterday's events?" "Do you mean about the Emperor's health?" "Yeah, the physicians couldn't do anything, but then her highness came…" "They say her highness grabbed the assistant chief physician's arm and warned him not to use Repetora." "And that difficult-to-handle Goam fruit peel..." - [2157-dvmm-chapter-37](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2157-dvmm-chapter-37/) - The pills that entered his mouth melted and disappeared in an instant. A moment later, white smoke escaped from the emperor's nose, and his color gradually returned. His skin, which had turned pale due to significant blood loss, showed a slight but noticeable improvement. "Zenid, one more." I received another - [2156-dvmm-chapter-36](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2156-dvmm-chapter-36/) - I halted everything I was doing and ran to Tishrit Palace. I could feel the commotion all the way from the palace's garden. As I entered the bedroom, I saw the assistant chief physician who had arrived first, looking very agitated. "Princess!" The Empress, too, greeted me with a - [2155-dvmm-chapter-35](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2155-dvmm-chapter-35/) - The room was filled with various fabrics, so colorful that it hurt my eyes. The Empress picked up a few of them and asked, "I think this one, this one, and this one are the best, but what do you think?" For a moment, I didn't know what she was - [2154-dvmm-chapter-34](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2154-dvmm-chapter-34/) - It happens. Instances where you woke up and didn’t realize you had fallen asleep. I heard the rustling sound as I slowly came to my senses. It sounded like someone was flipping through a book. 'I'm sure I was at the pharmacy for blood tests.' So, who could - [2153-dvmm-chapter-33](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2153-dvmm-chapter-33/) - The Emperor's blood was thinner than anticipated. Its color was close to normal, and there seemed to be no significant visible abnormalities. After confirming that the bleeding had stopped properly, I stood up. "It's all done, Your Majesty." "Good, when can we expect the results of the examination?" - [2152-dvmm-chapter-32](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2152-dvmm-chapter-32/) - Julion has been spending extremely busy days recently. The main reason was Count Camer, and only today had he managed to decide on a course of action and issue a public announcement. It was still far from enough, but this much seemed to be the limit. "Phew…" Julion, who - [2151-dvmm-chapter-31](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2151-dvmm-chapter-31/) - Psirias Bianthe. Born as the eldest daughter of the Marquis Bianthe, she became the Crown Princess and later, the Empress, living a relatively uneventful life. Before her marriage, she was ranked as the number one woman who captured the hearts of all the young nobles, and at the same time, she - [2150-dvmm-chapter-30](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2150-dvmm-chapter-30/) - I sipped my tea, unable to answer right away. I had longed to talk about my mother with someone, and now that someone who actually knew her appeared, words didn't come easily. In Cassian, I had no one to talk openly with, and Zenid would cry at the mere mention of her, - [2149-dvmm-chapter-29](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2149-dvmm-chapter-29/) - "Sir Ares? What brings you here?" He couldn't contain his excitement about finally being able to leave the Palace infirmary. While this wasn't the Palace infirmary, I believed that as a knight of the Crown Prince, he should be at the Crown Prince's residence. Ares answered my question with a - [2148-dvmm-chapter-28](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2148-dvmm-chapter-28/) - "Your Majesty, the Crown Princess is here." The newly appointed head maid announced my presence with a slight bow. After a brief silence, permission from the Empress came. As the door opened, I could see the dimly lit room beyond. "I greet Your Majesty the Empress." "Please come - [2147-dvmm-chapter-27](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2147-dvmm-chapter-27/) - Julion checked the crumpled papers again. The day after Blanche's crime was confirmed, a letter arrived from Count Camer. "I never thought they would cut - [2146-dvmm-chapter-26](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2146-dvmm-chapter-26/) - Silence filled the bedroom. Julion's face showed a hint of exhaustion. His downcast eyes were slightly bloodshot, indicating that he hadn't slept well. 'Just how much does he know?' Breaking the abrupt silence, Dr. Barmid huffed with an embarrassed expression. Finally, Julion cleared his throat. "How far has it - [2145-special-side-story-episode-5](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2145-special-side-story-episode-5/) - Time passed, and before they knew it, it was the day Jeremy started kindergarten. From the early morning, Jeremy was brimming with excitement. He was so eager to go that he barely touched the toast topped with his favorite jam, instead insisting on putting on his kindergarten uniform right away. - [2144-special-side-story-episode-4](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2144-special-side-story-episode-4/) - Kindergarten. It was a relatively new institution that had recently become popular among the Empire’s upper class. Traditionally, nobles hired private tutors to educate their children at home. But in kindergartens, children of the same age were taught together in group settings. Most noble children would eventually attend the - [2143-special-side-story-episode-3](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2143-special-side-story-episode-3/) - Time passed, and it was finally the birthday Jeremy had been counting down to. You might expect that the birthday party of the Young Lord of Offenheir would be an extravagant banquet swarmed with guests eager to celebrate— But that wasn’t the case. Due to many past events, Elze didn’t - [2142-special-side-story-episode-2](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2142-special-side-story-episode-2/) - Special Side Story – Episode 2 Of course, Elze was genuinely happy that Dante showered Jeremy with so much love. However, Dante’s efforts did come across as a bit excessive at times. ‘Really, he could stand to try just a little less…’ Elze looked as if she had reached a state - [2141-special-side-story-episode-1](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2141-special-side-story-episode-1/) - Special Side Story – Episode 1 Time flowed like water. Before she knew it, six years had already passed since she gave birth. And in that time, Elze came to experience many new things. For example... ‘Hmm, how should I put this.’ Sitting at the dining table, Elze couldn’t - [2140-side-story-chapter-8](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2140-side-story-chapter-8/) - Side Story Chapter 8. Day by Day Lucia remembered it clearly. Not just the first night they spent together, but even the next time—how Owen would only take the initiative after she actively encouraged him. He was a man of firm principles, someone who strictly adhered to the customs of nobility. - [2138-side-story-chapter-7](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2138-side-story-chapter-7/) - Side Story Chapter 7. Saints and Wizards (4) “…I said I loved you,” Kyle admitted now, his voice soft but steady. Bella’s eyes widened at the unexpected confession. Kyle, ignoring the pounding of his heart, met her gaze and said it again. “You confessed that you liked me, and I told - [2137-side-story-chapter-6](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2137-side-story-chapter-6/) - Side Story Chapter 6. Saints and Wizards (3) "Huh…" Bella clutched the blanket tightly, her eyes darting around to take in her unfamiliar surroundings. The ceiling, the windows, the bed—none of it was familiar. This wasn’t the temple. That alone was shocking enough, but what truly startled her was the presence - [2136-side-story-chapter-5](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2136-side-story-chapter-5/) - Side Story Chapter 5. Saints and Wizards (2) The moment Kyle heard the words "Do you have feelings for me?" his body froze. It felt as though Bella had struck a nerve he didn’t even know he had. He couldn’t understand why. Why did those words feel so sharp, cutting into him as - [2135-side-story-chapter-4](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2135-side-story-chapter-4/) - Side Story Chapter 4. Saints and Wizards (1) Kyle froze momentarily at Owen’s candid confession before nodding in understanding. Until recently, Kyle had been in a similar situation. If he had been in Owen’s shoes, he would’ve had nothing holding him back either. The position of Mage Tower Lord? It - [2134-side-story-chapter-3](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2134-side-story-chapter-3/) - Side Story Chapter 3: The Original World (3) “Twenty-two…?” Minji's face went pale for a moment. Two reasons explained her reaction. First, the realization that the "possessed" person, who the so-called Creator had claimed was "a good match," was mentally her equal but physically five years younger. “You were young. - [2133-side-story-chapter-2](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2133-side-story-chapter-2/) - Side Story Chapter 2: The Original World (2) Lee Minji found herself unexpectedly flustered by the appearance of the man before her. She hadn’t expected someone this outwardly attractive. Not as striking as Owen, of course, but certainly on par with Kyle. ‘If someone saw him, they’d think a romance novel’s - [2132-side-story-chapter-1](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2132-side-story-chapter-1/) - Side Story Chapter 1: The Original World (1) The world is created in many ways. Sometimes through deliberate design, sometimes through chance and circumstance. The "Creator" was a god who stole the stories of others. Unlike other gods who shaped their worlds with care and cultivated life, the Creator chose to - [2131-chapter-107](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2131-chapter-107/) - Epilogue (2) Hearing Lucia’s delighted response, Owen chuckled softly and quipped, “I might feel a little jealous.” Lucia blinked, genuinely surprised. Owen rarely displayed emotions like jealousy or possessiveness. Covering her mouth with her hand, she teased, “…Owen, you get jealous too?” “Do you dislike it?” “Not at all. I - [2130-chapter-106](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2130-chapter-106/) - Epilogue (1) By mid-April, during the season when cherry blossoms were in full bloom, the wedding date had been set. For months, both the Edelte and Verdun families were abuzz with preparations for the grand union. The wedding turned out to be far more extravagant and resplendent than the engagement ceremony. The - [2129-chapter-105](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2129-chapter-105/) - Birthday (6) Just as Lucia had prepared a grand event for Owen’s birthday, Owen also had his own plans for Lucia. Unlike Owen, who preferred calm and quiet celebrations, Lucia enjoyed things that were bright and extravagant. Knowing this better than anyone, Owen decorated the banquet hall instead of a dining room. - [2128-chapter-104](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2128-chapter-104/) - Birthday (5) Owen spent his entire birthday with Lucia. They enjoyed the events she had prepared with the servants, cut into the large cake and ate a slice, shared tea, and strolled through the garden. By the time they realized, it was lunchtime again, and they dined at a pavilion in the - [2127-chapter-103](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2127-chapter-103/) - Birthday (4) Owen awoke to a familiar scene. He was dreaming. A dream of inheriting memories. There were still several months of memories Owen had yet to inherit. ‘...It's raining.’ The remaining memories were dry and pale. Most of them were monotonous, like a black-and-white film. Only - [2126-chapter-102](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2126-chapter-102/) - Birthday (3) The garden annex, being relatively small, didn’t take long for Owen and Lucia to explore. It resembled a regular house, with a living room, kitchen, two bathrooms, and three bedrooms. On the first floor were the living room, kitchen, one bedroom, and a bathroom, while the second floor housed the - [2125-chapter-101](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2125-chapter-101/) - Birthday (2) Owen tilted his head slightly, unsure of Lucia’s intent. Lucia smiled brightly, her confidence evident in the way her crimson lips curved upward. “Do you remember when we went to Oceane?” “Of course,” he replied without hesitation. Lucia reached out, cupping his pale cheek with her hand. Her - [2124-chapter-100](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2124-chapter-100/) - Birthday (1) Late November was biting cold. With winter beginning to take hold, Owen and Lucia found themselves loading a wagon with thick clothes, packing for the long journey ahead. Their three-week trip to the Verdun duchy meant they needed to prepare for every possible situation. Though the duchy had its - [2123-chapter-99](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2123-chapter-99/) - The Wicked (3) “…I know that too.” Bella responded with an incredulous expression, her voice sharp with frustration. She knew all too well about choosing drivers who could keep their mouths shut—it had been the same back on Earth. Still, she sighed and continued walking. The three stopped only when they - [2122-chapter-98](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2122-chapter-98/) - The Wicked (2) “…Lies.” Bella didn’t want to believe Owen’s words. Even as she saw the sincerity reflected in his dark eyes, she muttered to herself in denial. “If you want to believe that, then do so.” Owen made no effort to convince her, as if to say her disbelief - [2121-chapter-97](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2121-chapter-97/) - The Wicked (1) Edward was not only expelled from the Marquisate of Celid but also stripped of his noble status following the incident. With the Emperor's permission, Kyle ensured that Edward would never wield magic again, effectively robbing him of his imperial citizenship as well. No one knew where Edward, now exiled - [2120-chapter-96](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2120-chapter-96/) - The Engagement (3) Thanks to those words, the banquet hall descended into chaos. Some screamed, while others trembled in fear. In an era of peace without war, black magic was fear incarnate. "Please proceed with the engagement ceremony quickly." Amid the confusion, Bella raised her voice. "Duke Verdun, hurry!" - [2119-chapter-95](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2119-chapter-95/) - The Engagement (2) The day of Owen and Lucia’s engagement ceremony had arrived, despite initial hesitation from both Owen and the Duke of Edelte. Edward’s potential use of dark magic, even under house arrest, had left them wary. But Lucia had been firm. She believed that once the engagement was official, Edward’s purpose - [2118-chapter-94](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2118-chapter-94/) - The Engagement (1) Owen, without hesitation, accepted Lucia's request. Having already gathered evidence of Edward's illegal operations through prior investigations, filing formal complaints wasn’t difficult. Upon returning to his estate, Owen meticulously organized his findings, preparing for the next steps. The very next day, evidence of Edward’s illegal enterprises began to surface - [2117-chapter-93](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2117-chapter-93/) - Warning (5) Lucia sat in the carriage, her gaze fixed on the view outside. The Celid marquessate grew smaller with each passing moment, and she eventually let out a long sigh. “A truly immoral man…” she muttered, clicking her tongue in frustration. “What a ridiculous stunt.” Her tone dripped with disdain - [2116-chapter-92](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2116-chapter-92/) - Warning (4) While Bella gazed out the window, lost in her own thoughts, Owen was preoccupied with entirely different concerns. Though he had appeared calm when speaking to Bella, inwardly, he was deeply uneasy. He knew better than anyone that Lucia was strong and resourceful. But Marquess Celid’s younger son, Edward, was - [2115-chapter-91](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2115-chapter-91/) - Warning (3) Edward drew the heavy curtains shut as soon as they stepped onto the terrace, sealing them off from the banquet hall. Taking a deep breath, he called out softly. “Lucia.” “Do you intend to persist in your insolence?” Lucia tilted her head slightly, her tone sharp at his continued use - [2114-chapter-90](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2114-chapter-90/) - Warning (2) "You're in quite a hurry," Lucia remarked calmly. Edward, unfazed by her question, responded with an equally composed tone. His lips, curling smoothly upward, radiated a cold sharpness. “You wanted to have a conversation, didn’t you? I’ve gone out of my way to accommodate you, so naturally, I’d like to - [2113-chapter-89](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2113-chapter-89/) - Warning (1) A chill winter wind, sharp as blades of ice, swept through the room. The frost-laden air danced across Bella, tousling Owen’s hair as it invaded the space. The open window let snowflakes drift in, slickening the floor and draining the warmth from the room. Even the enchantments meant to maintain a cozy - [2112-chapter-88](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2112-chapter-88/) - The Forest of Mist (6) Once the situation was resolved, the group returned to the estate. The "protective formation" they had planned to set up remained incomplete. Back at the Taylor Count’s manor, the wounded were treated, and everyone took time to rest. This included Owen, who had exhibited concerning symptoms earlier. - [2111-chapter-87](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2111-chapter-87/) - The Forest of Mist (5) The group, having analyzed the forest through Kyle’s recordings, ventured out the next day to establish the protective barrier. “Gasp…” “As the Saintess predicted…” And just as Bella had said, the group encountered monsters. Serpent-like creatures, emerging from the ground, were feasting on plants and - [2110-chapter-86](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2110-chapter-86/) - The Forest of Mist (4) After finishing their meal, the trio headed into the Forest of Mist with the knights in tow. The forest lived up to its name, cloaked in a dense, almost impenetrable mist. “I can hardly see anything,” Bella said in a voice tinged with wonder. The reason - [2109-chapter-85](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2109-chapter-85/) - The Forest of Mist (3) With Bella’s final words, silence fell over the carriage. The group traveled quietly until the carriage stopped for a meal. Afterward, Kyle and Owen opted to ride their horses instead of returning to the carriage. The knights accompanying them exchanged uncertain glances, wondering if an argument had - [2108-chapter-84](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2108-chapter-84/) - The Forest of Mist (2) The shredded pieces of the paper fell to the floor of the carriage. Owen and Kyle's cold gazes bore into Bella. Meeting their eyes, Bella smiled radiantly. “I told you, didn’t I? I’m going to devour ‘Bella.’ That way, I can stay here forever.” “Saintess, - [2107-chapter-83](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2107-chapter-83/) - The Forest of Mist (1) That was the extent of their conversation. [See you later.] With those parting words, the familiar distortion of his vision returned, and Owen awoke from his sleep. “Are you awake?” Lucia’s voice greeted him. She had drawn the curtains wide open, letting in the - [2106-chapter-82](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2106-chapter-82/) - Affection (5) “…What happens to you then?” The meaning behind his words was clear. Separation. He was speaking of the complete absorption of the soul. Owen hastily posed another question. “You said I become you, and you become me… but what happens afterward? Even after death? Does reincarnation even exist?” - [2105-chapter-81](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2105-chapter-81/) - Affection (4) The sensation of his touch on the back of her hand was both ticklish and pleasant. Lucia glanced down quietly, but Owen gently withdrew his hand and moved to sit across from her. Not long after, the sound of knocking filled the room, followed by the entrance of attendants and - [2104-chapter-80](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2104-chapter-80/) - Affection (3) Lucia reached for the second button of Owen's shirt, slowly undoing it to reveal a hint of his collarbone. Trailing her fingers along his collarbone, she spoke in a low voice. "People might follow the tradition of separate floors and separate rooms, but we both know that many couples sneak - [2103-chapter-79](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2103-chapter-79/) - Affection (2) “Uh…?” Owen was taken aback by Lucia’s question. It was clear he hadn’t anticipated her asking about this and hadn’t thought of an answer. Lucia usually wasn’t one to scrutinize details like this, so he hadn’t prepared himself for this situation. “You’re not particularly interested in bakeries, are you?” - [2102-chapter-78](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2102-chapter-78/) - Affection (1) “I never realized it, but His Grace Verdun seems to be quite a gentle soul.” One of the young countesses remarked during the autumn tea party held in the Edelte estate’s garden. Lucia smiled, looking at the young lady. “Is that so?” Curious about where this would lead, Lucia - [2101-chapter-77](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2101-chapter-77/) - Crossing (5) As Owen’s gaze wavered, Kyle added with a touch of exasperation. “Wasn’t that exactly the impression you wanted to give off from the start?” “Well, yes, but…” “Then congratulations. That’s how everyone sees it.” Owen's ears turned a shade of red as he struggled to find the right - [2100-chapter-76](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2100-chapter-76/) - Crossing (4) Owen, upon hearing Kyle’s account, began delving into ancient records. With Kyle’s assistance, Owen managed to uncover documents on dimensions and dimensional travel. Just as Kyle had mentioned, there were indeed individuals who had traversed dimensions in the past. Though the methods varied, what was certain was the evidence - [2099-chapter-75](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2099-chapter-75/) - Crossing (3) “You’ll try to kick me out of this body no matter what. So why should I bother cooperating with you? It doesn’t benefit me in any way.” Owen presented his reasoning rather logically, though it seemed to anger Bella even more. “You think you’re the only one who can do - [2098-chapter-74](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2098-chapter-74/) - Crossing (2) Owen remained silent. His silence was an affirmation. "You’ve got to be kidding me... What kind of...?" Bella immediately grasped his meaning, and she began swearing again. "This isn’t some trashy drama, what is this even supposed to be...? Which god did this, seriously?" As her tirade - [2097-chapter-73](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2097-chapter-73/) - Crossing (1) The four days passed faster than anyone had expected. And at the end of that time, the news of Owen and Lucia’s engagement was announced. It was a well-coordinated announcement, prepared jointly by the Verdun and Edelte ducal families. The social circles and the aristocracy received the news with - [2096-chapter-72](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2096-chapter-72/) - Awareness (4) "…A display case?" "Yes... One day, out of the blue, His Grace ordered the butler to acquire a display case." A display case, a room with that display case, and the fact that it was filled with the gifts she had given him... "So, he’s been keeping them all?" - [2092-chapter-70-old-man-taiyi-arrives](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2092-chapter-70-old-man-taiyi-arrives/) - Within the six known realms of the void. There are only two forces in the Azure Realm that can be considered respectable. One is the Azure Green Daoist Sect, and the other is the Purple Cloud Divine Mountain. As for the Seven Killings Holy Sect and the Azure God Ancient Sect, they are only quite - [2091-chapter-69-the-six-great-realms-stargazing-city](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2091-chapter-69-the-six-great-realms-stargazing-city/) - Li Hanlu and the others wanted to go with them, and Lu Jiu didn't try to dissuade them. After all, every cultivator has their own philosophy and beliefs, and not everyone is like that old tortoise Cang Qingzi. Yun Mengxi's disciple sealed herself in a coffin, which was then placed inside the immortal tower left - [2090-chapter-68-fearless-even-in-death](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2090-chapter-68-fearless-even-in-death/) - Lu Jiu never figured out the exact origins of the old bald man at the Green Mountain Temple. The innate secret technique of the Seventh Sense also had no effect on this old bald man, after all, this old Bi Deng was at least a True Immortal level existence. If not for the seal imposed - [2089-chapter-67-proving-the-dao-and-slaying-the-three-corpses](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2089-chapter-67-proving-the-dao-and-slaying-the-three-corpses/) - Previously, Lu Jiu and Cang Qingzi had talked for quite a while. His rise to power in ancient times was only a couple of hundred years, and then he accidentally entered the Primordial Ruins, where ten thousand years passed in the blink of an eye. And in the ten thousand years since he left. The - [2088-chapter-66-the-ancient-immortal-palace-appears](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2088-chapter-66-the-ancient-immortal-palace-appears/) - Ancient secrets: the secrets of the eighteen difficulties in becoming an immortal. All of this was like gibberish to Li Hanlu and Xu Huanhuan, who were at a certain level. Although they didn't quite understand it, they still felt a sense of awe and wonder. Although Cang Qingzi, that old tortoise, couldn't figure out why - [2087-chapter-65-the-old-tortoise-who-hidden-tightest-circumstances](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2087-chapter-65-the-old-tortoise-who-hidden-tightest-circumstances/) - "Yes, time waits for no one." Inside the courtyard, Lu Jiu echoed the same sentiment. Despite the passage of time, his appearance remains unchanged, and everything is as it was before. The old friend, however, had white hair at his temples and a face full of wrinkles. If even the Qin family's young master is - [2086-chapter-64-time-waits-for-no-one](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2086-chapter-64-time-waits-for-no-one/) - In addition to cultivation techniques, Lu Jiu also taught Lu Xingyun a body-refining technique. This corresponds to the third physique that Lu Jiu cultivated, the Aurora Speed ​​Physique! Lu Jiu named the cultivation technique derived from the third physique "Aurora Speed ​​Technique"! As you can tell from the name, this is a body-refining technique that - [2085-chapter-63-the-next-generation-of-heads-of-the-house](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2085-chapter-63-the-next-generation-of-heads-of-the-house/) - "The killing of my ancient sect's disciple is an irreconcilable enmity!" Within the Qing Shen Ancient Sect, elders were filled with righteous indignation and raging anger. Their bodies were surging with a powerful divine aura, strange phenomena appeared, and the laws were in full swing. As a top-level religious sect that suppresses a region. The - [2084-chapter-62-the-philosophy-of-the-azure-daoist-sect](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2084-chapter-62-the-philosophy-of-the-azure-daoist-sect/) - The Heavenly Demon has been suppressed within Lu Jiu's body. Lu Jiu also collected the golden leaf that the orange cat had transformed into. Afterwards, he led Li Hanlu and the others back to the pure land of the ancient demon race. Xu Huanhuan and Xu Buchan were visiting the Pure Land for the first - [2083-chapter-61-the-mysterious-gold-leaf](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2083-chapter-61-the-mysterious-gold-leaf/) - Among the cultivators who intruded into this area. Except for Li Daotian, who foresaw the danger beforehand and then quickly led his men away. Those who trespassed into this Heavenly Demon Hunting Ground were all wiped out. Lu Jiu looked around but didn't see the Seven Killings Saint. But then they saw the protector of - [2082-chapter-60-is-the-heavenly-demon-afraid-of-cats](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2082-chapter-60-is-the-heavenly-demon-afraid-of-cats/) - Lu Jiu hadn't made a move because he was trying to find the location of the Heavenly Demon's remnant body. He was certain that the true form of the Demon's remains was hidden somewhere in this area. The other party lured so many cultivators to this hunting ground with the aim of devouring the essence - [2081-chapter-59-the-demonic-turtle-grandson](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2081-chapter-59-the-demonic-turtle-grandson/) - Lu Jiu talked to himself, studying the essence of evil power. The several streaks of dark light that he had swallowed into his body surged and thrashed within the black hole of his dantian. Although it cannot be refined, it cannot escape the black hole's grasp either. Just then. Several streaks of dark light suddenly - [2080-chapter-58-the-truth-about-evil-spirits](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2080-chapter-58-the-truth-about-evil-spirits/) - Lu Jiu has already arrived here. From afar, I could see the shape of its sharp claws outlined by the jet-black smoke. "A fragment of a body that escaped from an ancient seal?" Lu Jiu had a vague guess in his heart. The ancient seals he had seen were not completely broken, so it was - [2079-chapter-57-manifestation-of-evil-spirits](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2079-chapter-57-manifestation-of-evil-spirits/) - The Qin family members slunk away. Those who witnessed this scene from afar were completely dumbfounded. The ninth senior of the Lu family is truly terrifyingly fierce! They had just slaughtered the Qing Shen Ancient Sect members when they taught the ancient Qin family a harsh lesson. Just who is this person? That terrifying and - [2078-chapter-56-the-fourth-physique-the-endless-overlord-physique](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2078-chapter-56-the-fourth-physique-the-endless-overlord-physique/) - Snap! A resounding slap landed squarely on Qin Chengxian's face. Even Qin Chengxian's own cultivation level was not weak. But compared to Lu Jiu, they were simply no match. Qin Chengxian's body spun like a spiral from the slap, and half of his face swelled up instantly, ruining his handsome appearance. "Out of respect for - [2077-chapter-55-an-orange-cat](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2077-chapter-55-an-orange-cat/) - "Did that brat use his innate secret technique on me again?" The portion of primordial spirit power residing within Li Hanlu returned to Lu Jiu's original body. At the same time. Lu Jiu felt something and looked in a direction in the distance. Although they are far apart, theoretically, the line of sight cannot reach - [2076-chapter-54-hes-even-fiercer-than-the-founder](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2076-chapter-54-hes-even-fiercer-than-the-founder/) - The Primordial Heavenly Skill is a cultivation technique that Lu Jiu obtained after going through life and death trials in the Primordial Ancestral Ruins. Starting from the eighth realm of martial arts, if we talk about the initial foundation building, the Primordial Heavenly Art can be said to be the number one among all the - [2075-chapter-53-the-profound-meaning-revealed](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2075-chapter-53-the-profound-meaning-revealed/) - Long before the Ancient Demon Realm was opened. The Seven Killings Saint, who possessed the secret technique of the Heavenly Dao Eye, stated with great certainty that Lu Jiu, this so-called ancient senior expert, had encountered problems in his cultivation, and his cultivation level was only at the Qi Refining Realm, with only his primordial - [2074-chapter-52-li-daotian-from-arrogance-to-politeness](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2074-chapter-52-li-daotian-from-arrogance-to-politeness/) - At the far end of the sky, a dazzling glow of sunset spread across the heavens. At first glance, it seemed far away, but in the blink of an eye, it was as if we were right in front of each other. The rosy light gathered and emitted the divine light of the laws, and - [2073-chapter-51-earth-soul-talent-secret-technique](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2073-chapter-51-earth-soul-talent-secret-technique/) - Upon hearing that Lu Jiu was going to teach her supernatural powers, Li Hanlu's face immediately lit up with joy. With the profound incantations flooding her mind, Li Hanlu quickly learned what the supernatural power Lu Jiu had taught her was. This divine power is called Hunyuan Tiandou! One supernatural power is almost all-encompassing, and - [2072-chapter-60](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2072-chapter-60/) - In the heart of Rottermond’s forest path, little sparrows fluttered their damp feathers, shaking off water droplets at the small square’s fountain. Charlotte, captivated by the tiny birds making soft chirping sounds, smiled gently. “Those little ones are just like you, Miss Windler,” he said. Gideon, watching a sparrow that had finished its bath and - [2071-chapter-71](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2071-chapter-71/) - Awareness (3) "Those words... If you say them to anyone else, I won't forgive you." To be honest, it seemed overly dependent. Relying too much on one person wasn't ideal. Yet, she liked it. Lucia didn't try to stop him—instead, she issued a warning. "There's no way that would - [2070-chapter-70](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2070-chapter-70/) - Awareness (2) Lucia was furious. There was no other word that could better describe her feelings in that moment. I was naive and helpless. I mistook the violence, resentment, and insecurities for familial love. The moment the word “violence” left Owen’s mouth, her mind went blank. I lived thinking it - [2069-chapter-69](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2069-chapter-69/) - Awareness (1) At Owen's words, Lucia froze. Her crimson eyes trembled with ripples of emotion. "Just like now, so honestly." "...Why now?" "Your eyes were trembling." Owen reached out his hand and slowly brushed under her eyes. As he did, a soft smile spread across his face. - [2068-chapter-68](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2068-chapter-68/) - Dream (6) As the story of Lucia came up, Owen felt embarrassed for no reason. Since they had shared the same body, it seemed like he had seen everything. [You don’t have to feel so ashamed. It's not like I can go around telling anyone about it.] “Well, that's true, but…” - [2067-chapter-67](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2067-chapter-67/) - Dream (5) In the dream, as if fleeing from reality, Owen confronted more memories. Once again, the memories were all painful and terrible, leaving him suffering even in the dream. He vividly remembered being locked in the attic, beaten by his mother with a cane, and bruised and wounded during sword training - [2066-chapter-66](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2066-chapter-66/) - Dream (4) “Owen!” As he was being helplessly shaken by the storm of memories, someone cupped his cheeks. The warmth of the hands brought Owen's focus back to reality. Outside the window, thunder and lightning still raged as rain poured down. “Get a hold of yourself.” His breathing was - [2065-chapter-65](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2065-chapter-65/) - Dream (3) "Wh-what…?" Lucia's startled reaction to Owen's question was understandable. She had always considered love unnecessary and didn’t understand it. "What do you mean, all of a sudden…?" So she asked directly, thinking it might be better to speak plainly. Otherwise, Owen feared that Lucia would never realize - [2064-chapter-64](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2064-chapter-64/) - Dream (2) It might just be his simple desire. Or perhaps, it could be a misunderstanding. Maybe he thought this way because he loved her and hoped she felt the same, allowing his subjective view to color his thoughts. While Owen tried to suppress all his desires for Lucia's sake, it - [2063-chapter-63](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2063-chapter-63/) - Dream (1) The investigation and interrogation regarding the attempted assassination were conducted under the leadership of the temple and the royal family. Though Bella had been appointed as the final commander for this case, with the temple and the royal family merely providing assistance to her. Knowing well that this matter would - [2062-chapter-62](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2062-chapter-62/) - The Original Story (5) In *The Flower of the Empire*, it was much later in the story that ‘Bella’ went to the North to establish the ‘Shield of Protection.’ This was a narrative that appeared toward the end, where Bella traveled to the North with Owen and Kyle, and the romantic tension between - [2061-chapter-61](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2061-chapter-61/) - The Original Story (4) Only those who are loved, love in return. The meaning was clear. Owen cherished only those he allowed into his domain. For example, his subordinates, knights, and the people employed at his estate—those who were clearly ‘his people.’ Excluding them, the only ones left were his - [2060-chapter-60](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2060-chapter-60/) - The Original Story (3) Owen furrowed his brows upon hearing Lucia's response. It was because he couldn't quite grasp the meaning of her words. "It was a look of wanting." Seeing his expression, Lucia continued. "She wanted to possess you." "...What?" He was taken aback. So, what - [2059-chapter-59](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2059-chapter-59/) - The Original Story (2) A faint crease appeared on Owen’s forehead as he furrowed his brow. “There’s no need to make that face, you know,” Lucia said, her hand gently touching his forehead. It had become almost a habit for her, this action of smoothing out the wrinkles on his forehead whenever - [2058-chapter-58](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2058-chapter-58/) - The Original Story (1) As Bella requested, the imperial banquet was momentarily halted. This was only natural. After all, an assassination attempt had just been made on the saintess. Though the would-be assassin was quickly apprehended. “Here he is, Your Majesty.” The one who had been with Bella was - [2057-chaper-57](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2057-chaper-57/) - The Imperial Banquet (6) “Owen.” A voice overlapped the scene in the novel. Owen’s gaze naturally followed the voice. “Was that not the young Marquis of Ceres? What did he say to you?” She approached, dressed in a gown that wasn’t red but a deep wine color, almost black. - [2056-chapter-56](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2056-chapter-56/) - The Imperial Banquet (5) The emotion reflected in those red eyes was the same one I had seen earlier when we danced together. '...It might be true after all.' Earlier, I thought it was more likely that it wasn’t. Jealousy is something that can only exist if there are feelings involved, - [2055-chapter-55](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2055-chapter-55/) - The Imperial Banquet (4) ‘That can't be right.’ But isn’t jealousy something you can only feel for someone you like? It could sometimes occur even among friends, but… Could Lucia really be that kind of person? ‘...I’m not sure.’ On one hand, it seemed plausible; on the other, it seemed impossible. - [2054-chapter-54](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2054-chapter-54/) - The Imperial Banquet (3) "That's her..." "I saw her at the hunting competition." "Yes, she defeated the monsters herself." Murmurs spread among the nobles once again. "Saintess, I am Hannah of the Marquess of Selid." "Nice to meet you, Lady Hannah." People began to approach Bella one by - [2053-chapter-53](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2053-chapter-53/) - The Imperial Banquet (2) The Empire, Freyon, was arrogant. The emblem of the Freyon Imperial Family was a golden lion. They were so immersed in their role that they believed they would be eternal rulers. "They thought it would be fine without the Mage Tower and the Verdun family because they believed - [2052-chapter-52](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2052-chapter-52/) - The Imperial Banquet (1) Time passed, and it was now August, the last month of summer. On the day of the Imperial Banquet, postponed to early August, Lucia greeted Owen with a smile. "You look great." "I'm glad you think so." Owen was dressed in the formal wear they - [2051-chapter-51](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2051-chapter-51/) - 051. Summer Lake (5) "Because you said those things by the lake earlier!" What came in response to the question was such nonsense. Lucia frowned, not understanding, and more incomprehensible words followed. "You knew everything, didn’t you? You knew Father already figured it out, and you’re mocking me…!" It was - [2050-chapter-50](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2050-chapter-50/) - Summer Lake (4) "..." Lucia silently watched Owen as he enthusiastically talked about the strawberry business. It seemed almost severe. Once he realized his feelings, there was no hesitation, and he was now very straightforward. The problem was, she didn't dislike it. She liked how he whispered words of - [2049-chapter-49](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2049-chapter-49/) - Summer Lake (3) Lucia looked at Owen's cold face with astonished eyes. Since meeting him at the garden party, she had never seen such an expression on his face. No, not even before then had his face looked this icy. It had been an expression of indifference and annoyance. "It's - [2048-chapter-48](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2048-chapter-48/) - Summer Lake (2) "You told me not to feel sorry, but Owen, I'm not usually that kind of person either." Lucia started speaking just as the rowboat reached the shore. Lucia carefully stood up and stepped out of the boat first. Owen watched her silently before standing up to follow her. - [2047-chapter-47](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2047-chapter-47/) - Summer Lake (1) "How on earth did I do that..." The next day, Lucia was horrified as soon as she woke up. Everything from the previous day came vividly to mind. "Did I really make such a mistake?" Even though she was drunk, this was too much. She had - [2046-chapter-46](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2046-chapter-46/) - The Witch's Man (4) To be honest, Owen didn't expect Lucia to react that way. It was an expression he had never seen before. Regret. Lucia looked so sorry that she couldn't say anything. Owen had thought that Lucia would naturally be happy to receive his confession. Wasn't this - [2045-chapter-45](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2045-chapter-45/) - The Witch's Man (3) As the male protagonist confessed his love to the witch on stage, Owen realized what this elusive emotion he had been searching for was. It was love. The world didn't turn pink like in a novel's description, nor did he think about Lucia all day long, but this - [2044-chapter-44](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2044-chapter-44/) - The Witch's Man (2) After choosing their outfits at the boutique, Owen and Lucia went to a jeweler’s shop. Since the jewelers were also located at the end of the boutique street, it didn’t take long to get there. Lucia chose a dark red spirit stone. It was said to be - [2043-chapter-43](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2043-chapter-43/) - The Witch's Man (1) - Here are opera tickets. Don’t just go to the boutique and come back; watch the opera and have dinner as well. On the way to Edelte Mansion in the carriage. Owen quietly looked down at the opera tickets he received from his butler, Logan. The tickets - [2042-chapter-42](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2042-chapter-42/) - What I Truly Want (6) Surprisingly, Lucia found herself unable to answer Marie’s question. Her mind went blank for a moment, as if drained of all thoughts. ‘…Why?’ It wasn’t even a question that should have flustered her so much. Lucia found her reaction strange and awkward. As she - [2041-chapter-50](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2041-chapter-50/) - Chapter 50. The handoff of the wooden board was successful, but without lightning, it was nearly impossible to make out the contents. Jay snatched our bag out of the air with one hand before it blew away, then began stuffing whatever he could grab into it. “Jay!” Thwack. He blocked a flying piece of clothing - [2040-chapter-49](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2040-chapter-49/) - Chapter 49. Because the work had to be kept secret, they couldn’t even mobilize many people. The reason was simple. Because of Jo Min-ah’s request. She had pleaded that until the phone was found, absolutely no one outside could know about its existence, apparently out of fear of Cha Seong-hwan. As a result, only six - [2039-chapter-48](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2039-chapter-48/) - Chapter 48. “You can’t get wet in the rain.” I brushed the raindrops off Suho’s shoulders and hair. Even though he’d been scolded several times for it already, he still didn’t seem to grasp the danger of rain. Especially on days like today, when the drizzle fell fine and thin, he was even less cautious. - [2038-chapter-47](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2038-chapter-47/) - Chapter 47. Just because the shelter was complete didn’t mean we could laze around like grasshoppers, singing songs all day. True, we no longer had to spend every single day cutting down trees like machines, but there was still plenty of daily work to be done. The harsher the conditions, the more diligently we had - [2037-chapter-46](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2037-chapter-46/) - Chapter 46. “I should’ve just stayed in bed.” Going out to the sea after having been pushed to my limits all night had probably been the mistake. Even sleeping like the dead all morning hadn’t been enough. By now, with the sun already setting, I still couldn’t bring myself to get up from where I - [2036-chapter-45](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2036-chapter-45/) - Chapter 45. “Finally repenting? Don’t you think it’s a little late for Heaven?” Seo Narae shoved a disposable plastic cup from the window ledge into a plastic bag. “Heaven, my foot. I’ll be lucky if I make it to the snack bar called Heaven. I just went to say hi to the Lord, out of - [2030-chapter-50-a-bone-fragment](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2030-chapter-50-a-bone-fragment/) - Each opening of the Ancient Demon Realm lasts for about a year. This secret realm is vast and boundless; even after being opened multiple times, countless areas remain unexplored. Following the arrival of the ancient Sun family in the Ancient Demon Realm. More news has emerged. The Azure Green Dao Sect has also arrived, and - [2029-chapter-49-hand-rubbed-little-black-hole](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2029-chapter-49-hand-rubbed-little-black-hole/) - The primordial spiritual energy of the Demon Clan's Pure Land is undoubtedly a valuable resource. However, Lu Jiu needed far too much spiritual energy for cultivation. Surely he wouldn't go and compete with a bunch of juniors for the chance to absorb spiritual energy, would he? Moreover, if he were to begin cultivating, all the - [2028-chapter-48-the-progenitor-of-all-beings](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2028-chapter-48-the-progenitor-of-all-beings/) - We have just entered the Ancient Demon Realm. An aura of ancient times, as if from the distant past, immediately hits you. Looking up, one sees a vast, undulating mountain range, with countless towering trees standing tall and lush. Not only is the spiritual energy between heaven and earth abundant, but its quality is also - [2027-chapter-47-extorting-money-from-each-person](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2027-chapter-47-extorting-money-from-each-person/) - The Immortal Tower floated in the air, its boundless immortal power pressing down on all directions! Accompanied by a sentence from Lu Xingyun. In an instant, all eyes turned to her. That brat from the Lu family! What a petty person who has gotten away with something! They only dared to mutter these thoughts to - [2026-chapter-46-under-the-power-of-immortals-all-are-but-ants](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2026-chapter-46-under-the-power-of-immortals-all-are-but-ants/) - The sudden turn of events was beyond everyone's expectations. Xu Huanhuan's strength has increased dramatically, as if she had divine assistance! Even though she was indeed inferior to the Seven Kill Saint in terms of understanding the realm. However, with the blessing of the myriad divine powers, and the divine armor that seemed to be - [2025-chapter-45-pretending-to-be-cool-is-like-the-wind-always-by-your-side](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2025-chapter-45-pretending-to-be-cool-is-like-the-wind-always-by-your-side/) - Qin Chengxian's expression was rather unpleasant. He never expected that this seemingly delicate and alluring woman would be so terrifying when she unleashed her power. "Are you going to make an enemy of the Qin family?" His face was cold, and his gaze was fixed on Lu Jiu. Lu Jiu shook his head speechlessly, "I - [2024-chapter-44-the-power-of-the-ancient-demon](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2024-chapter-44-the-power-of-the-ancient-demon/) - Chapter 44 The Power of the Ancient Demon How shocking it is to see a god being dismembered in public! All told, this is the third Celestial God of the Seven Killings Holy Cult to fall at the hands of the Lu family! Normally, a Celestial God-level expert is a figure revered and surrounded by - [2023-chapter-43-are-true-immortals-worthless](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2023-chapter-43-are-true-immortals-worthless/) - The Seven Killings Holy Sect's mountain peak offers a panoramic view of the entire lake. His gaze pierced through all obstacles and saw at the very bottom of the lake an ancient stone platform, bearing countless marks of time. The Ancient Demon Realm only opens once every thousand years. When Lu Jiu discovered this place, - [2022-chapter-42-arrogant-and-domineering](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2022-chapter-42-arrogant-and-domineering/) - "This is... the Demon Blood Sky Roc?" "A demon at the level of a true god! How is this possible? How could a demon of this level appear here?" "That's not the real Demon Blood Sky Roc; to be precise, it's not a living True God-level demon!" The crowd below was filled with horror. However, - [2021-chapter-41-arrival-from-all-sides](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2021-chapter-41-arrival-from-all-sides/) - It's good that demons and monsters are rampant." For Lu Jiu, the thing he feared least was the large number of demons. The more demons there are, the faster his Void Devourer will grow. After all, his cultivation requires too much spiritual energy from heaven and earth. If someone at the ninth level of Qi - [2020-chapter-41](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2020-chapter-41/) - “That’s right, Lexion. I was covering that family in the capital until recently.” Edith, along with everyone at the Homan Clinic, had been closely following Benjamin’s articles, so it was impossible not to know about House Lexion. The Ducal House Lexion was one of the highly respected noble families in the country, and the Duke himself - [2019-chapter-40](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2019-chapter-40/) - To reach the building used as a residence and office by the Militia Force, where Helen is located, required quite a walk, even after taking a private carriage. Cassius shrugged his shoulders at Walter, who still kept his mouth shut. “Walter, the hardest thing is relationships.” “For someone who claims it’s difficult, I remember you - [2018-chapter-39](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2018-chapter-39/) - “Edith. What on earth are you saying now...” Sophia asked with a forced smile. Amid the confusion, her question was sincere, devoid of pretense or falsehood. Things are going well, so what is she talking about? Now she feels guilty? Even when she asked how much she would get paid. Sophia wanted to ask Edith - [2017-chapter-38](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2017-chapter-38/) - Edith couldn’t remember how she got back to her room after throwing Walter out of Fortrion Manor. She walked with long strides without looking back, thinking that he shouldn’t be seeing her cry. 『 At least I was able to find Cassius somewhere along the way and asked him to take care of Walter.』 She - [2016-chapter-37](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2016-chapter-37/) - Walter slowly closed his eyes and opened them. Edith could sense that he was holding back the urge. He might want to ask her why she is suddenly coming to him late at night and tempting him. Just as he was about to open his mouth, Edith approached him first and kissed him. His heart - [2015-chapter-36](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2015-chapter-36/) - 『 Kill Walter?』 Edith stopped in her tracks and froze in place. If only she had entered the secret passage a little earlier and overheard Elizabeth and Aizen’s conversation, she might have been able to grasp some context. But having only heard the latter part of it, it was impossible to even guess why they - [2014-chapter-35](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2014-chapter-35/) - Walter, who was one step behind the mourners, maintained a stoic expression as he strained his ears. “Why is Isabelle looking at Sophia so threateningly?” “The bishop’s eulogy seems more like a love letter...” “Oh my god. Lady Sophia has turned pale.” As Walter observed the noisy mourners and Sophia, who had trembling hands and - [2013-chapter-34](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2013-chapter-34/) - The funeral of Nicholas Fortrion was scheduled to last a week, following the family’s customs. There is an anecdote that the first Viscount Fortrion managed his estate well and helped the poor with the profits from his business, leading to a continuous stream of mourners at his post-funeral service. Therefore, from that time onwards, the - [2012-chapter-33](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2012-chapter-33/) - Edith didn’t even realize that she had dropped the herbal oil bottle she was holding and continued to stare. “Why aren’t you avoiding me?” “...” It was only when she heard him whisper softly that she realized she hadn’t avoided him. Although it seemed like everyone would think Walter was about to kiss her. The - [2011-chapter-59](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2011-chapter-59/) - Edwin stayed with Sarah Chadwick until the end of the performance. Having forgotten about Vivianne's presence, he responded politely to Sarah Chadwick’s conversation and enjoyed the collaboration between the orchestra and the cello. Since neither of them showed any sign of surprise at seeing each other there, it was safe to assume their meeting had - [2010-tfacmme-chapter-32](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2010-tfacmme-chapter-32/) - The dusk was like melted amber, wrapping around entangled gasps. The golden crow sank into wisps of cloud, burning the western sky into a flush like rising desire. After several rounds, the two of them finally regained their senses. Qi Yingzhu finally got off her. Her clothes were soaked, almost unpresentable. Her jade-like face was - [2009-tfacmme-chapter-31](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2009-tfacmme-chapter-31/) - When those words came out, it was like thunder striking level ground—everyone startled. A woman in the crowd stammered: “Wh‑what? Did I hear wrong?” The male servant seated near her gently tugged her hand: “Mate, you didn’t hear wrong. I heard it too. That Lady Xu said just now that she demands a divorce.” The - [2008-chapter-100](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2008-chapter-100/) - ‘She drank it.’ Now, Vilred just needs to use his magic at the precise moment. Idel, who confirmed that the ring lid was properly closed with her opposite finger, tightly sealed her mouth. Watching Melisa readily drink the beverage somehow made her throat feel completely choked up. How much effort had she put in to - [2007-chapter-99](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2007-chapter-99/) - Around the time Melisa was highly anticipating the impending event, Idel was trying to regulate her irregular breathing. It wasn't common for Idel to be this nervous, but when she thought about it, it was only natural. As much as Melisa looked forward to today, she, too, had been waiting for this moment. “Lady Idel, - [2006-chapter-98](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2006-chapter-98/) - Oh, it's Sigmund. Only then did Idel realize she hadn't yet replied to him. ‘I meant to reply a little later, but then I forgot.’ As she blinked and picked up her pen, the artifact spat out another note. It seemed the other party’s patience had completely run out. [Did you die?] [If you died, - [2005-chapter-97](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2005-chapter-97/) - After rushing into Vilred's room and confirming it, Melisa's potion was indeed a shape-shifting magic potion. Of course, the potion did not turn Melisa into a biologically female person. ‘Vilred said it was similar to how he transforms his appearance, but a more efficient method.’ He said it was a method only possible if one - [2004-chapter-96](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2004-chapter-96/) - Idel blinked rapidly after hearing Melisa’s words. ‘Huh…? Who is relying on whom?’ She had clearly heard human words, but they weren't easily comprehensible. Relying on Melisa…? Who? ‘Surely not me?’ The unexpected attack from a non-anticipated person always digs deeper into the heart. ‘No, you’re right. Yes, it is true that I am in - [2003-chapter-95](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2003-chapter-95/) - Idel nodded slightly with a crumpled expression after hearing Vilred's words. The unpleasant sweetness of the potion lingered in her mouth. She took a sip of the tea placed on the table before letting out a small sigh. “Yeah, I’m not sure if I can really say I met him. I just caught a glimpse - [2002-chapter-94](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2002-chapter-94/) - Little Veil, that is, Idel, continued to play her role effectively after that. As the saying goes, even a dog can recite poetry after three years; it was thanks to her younger sibling's constant chatter that the chaotic situation became somewhat clear. As a result… [The author is a woman, and she keeps thinking about - [2001-chapter-93](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2001-chapter-93/) - A story? After hearing the Duke of Knightley's words, Idel exchanged glances with Ivan for a moment. As the two silently communicated with their eyes, the duke rubbed his chin and continued speaking. “Is it not appealing? I thought it would be nice to select stories that could attract people's attention and offer advice on - [2000-chapter-92](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/2000-chapter-92/) - ‘I feel like I’ve seen Sigmund make that expression before...’ As Idel reflected on her memories with him, she quickly figured out the answer. ‘That’s the expression he often makes when he’s on high alert, right?’ Thinking that way, something felt off. He had lost a child, yet instead of showing sadness, he looked - [1999-chapter-91](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1999-chapter-91/) - The entire empire was shocked by the sudden news of the Crown Prince's death. The fact that the Emperor and Empress had no other children added to the concern. However, despite the empire's despondency, the Crown Prince's funeral was carried out swiftly. Since it was an event that no noble of the empire could - [1998-side-story-7](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1998-side-story-7/) - Episode 127. Side Story 7 “Ah… Why did you bite so hard…?” Eveline flinched in surprise at how firmly Elkais bit her breast. “Did it hurt?” “No… just surprised…” Though it had been his lips, the pressure was strong enough that for a moment, she thought he had used his teeth. In truth, he had - [1997-side-story-6](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1997-side-story-6/) - Episode 126. Side Story 6 “Ah…!” As soon as Elkais arrived in the bedroom, he set Eveline down on the bed. She liked how urgently he pressed his lips against hers, so she wrapped her arms around him. Her chest had swelled just as much as her belly, so when his body touched hers, their - [1996-side-story-5](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1996-side-story-5/) - Episode 125. Side Story 5 “Elkais, are you insane?” “Yeah. I’m crazy about you.” The moment Eveline stepped into the glass conservatory, her eyes widened in shock at the large magic circle and the group of mages standing inside. She turned to Elkais with disbelief. “What is all this?” “I don’t want you to suffer.” - [1995-side-story-4](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1995-side-story-4/) - Episode 124. Side Story 4 Elkais loved how Eveline liked his warmth. The way she would snuggle up to him, curling into his side like she never wanted to let go—it made him so happy that he chuckled and said, “I want to feed you breakfast.” “We’re not going to the dining room?” “From now - [1994-side-story-3](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1994-side-story-3/) - Episode 123. Side Story 3 “Eveline.” Elkais was watching as Eveline moved her hand up and down, teasing him while gripping him. When she took him into her mouth, his body trembled. “Mm…” Eveline didn’t mind the taste. It was just that the size, filling her mouth completely, was still overwhelming. But that discomfort eased - [1993-side-story-2](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1993-side-story-2/) - Episode 122. Side Story 2 “I’ll be back.” Without a moment of hesitation, Elkais headed back to the Magic Tower. One hour later. When he returned, he was cradling a bundle full of Shine Muscat grapes in his arms. Elkais opened the bedroom door with a delighted expression. “Is this the right one?” “Yes. But - [1992-side-story-1](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1992-side-story-1/) - Episode 121. Side Story 1 At the doctor’s words, Elkais wouldn’t even let Eveline step out of the bedroom. “Um, but… am I not allowed to walk at all?” “No.” “Not even a short stroll?” “No.” Eveline was a little flustered—Elkais had never been - [1991-chapter-120](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1991-chapter-120/) - < Episode 120> “Do you remember where this is?” Eveline realized Elkais had carried her all the way to the cave near the waterfall at the base of the mountain. “This is where we first did it.” “Yeah.” He smiled as he replied. “Let’s not do it here.” “Why?” “I want to do it at - [1990-chapter-119](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1990-chapter-119/) - “Hh…” Elkais softly bit her neck and then began to suck deeper. Eveline squirmed at the ticklish sensation from his actions. “I’m not even an Alpha anymore, so why the neck…” “Didn’t think I’d ever miss being an Alpha.” “Because of… the imprint?” He let out a short laugh at her words and - [1989-chapter-118](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1989-chapter-118/) - “Elkais, you’re seriously insane.” Eveline said it with complete sincerity. “I thought you’d be happy.” They were on their honeymoon. The problem was... the location. “After everything we went through to escape this place, you brought us back?” It was the deserted island they had once desperately tried to flee from. “Well, it - [1988-chapter-117](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1988-chapter-117/) - When Eveline opened her eyes again, a full day had passed. The flood of changed facts came rushing into her mind. Abellard was gone. There was no longer anyone by that name in House Wilden. She realized he had used divine power to erase every trace of himself from her life. Knock knock. - [1987-chapter-116](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1987-chapter-116/) - "Brother, it's not my will to love someone or not." "I-I know that." "Then why would you wish for something like that?" Abellard was in a state where he desperately wanted to see Eveline’s face, yet didn’t want to at the same time. He was crying so hard it was difficult even to - [1986-chapter-115](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1986-chapter-115/) - “Give me back my power.” “Urgh…! Eve!” Eveline reclaimed the power that had been residing within Abellard’s body. Abellard looked at her in shock as Dekarv’s power, once coiled around his heart, slipped away and returned to her without resistance. “You really do know how to disappoint me, Brother.” “Eve, this is…” “Don’t - [1985-chapter-114](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1985-chapter-114/) - “What are you scheming?” Eveline questioned Abellard, as if pressing him for an answer. “I’m not scheming. I really do plan to take your and Elkais’s powers.” “Why? You proposed to me just yesterday. You know that if you take the power, you can’t marry me.” “What?” Elkais glared at Abellard at those - [1984-chapter-113](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1984-chapter-113/) - Eveline returned to the estate with Elkais. She was relieved to see that Elkais, who had seemed uneasy because of the situation with Crown Prince Ferite, now looked completely at ease. “Elkais.” “Yes?” “You know I sent a marriage proposal, right?” “Of course.” She replied while noting how he had purposely opened a - [1983-chapter-112](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1983-chapter-112/) - After finishing her conversation with Crown Prince Ferite, Eveline immediately left the palace and headed for the pavilion where Elkais was waiting. As expected, Elkais's expression wasn’t good—he must have heard everything, too. “Eveline.” “Elkais, I want to walk a bit… but not in the palace. I want to go outside.” “Alright, let’s - [1982-chapter-111](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1982-chapter-111/) - "I said I had something urgent to deal with and couldn’t go." "If you don’t tell me the truth, kissing is banned for a whole month." "I said that if they didn’t let me go immediately, I’d behead the Crown Prince and hang his head on the city gate, then use the Duke - [1981-chapter-110](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1981-chapter-110/) - “What exactly are you trying to test?” Eveline asked teasingly as Elkais wrapped his arms around her waist, lifting her into his embrace. She instinctively circled her arms around his neck, laughing. “We can be intimate, as long as we don’t go all the way.” Now that he mentioned it, that made sense. - [1980-chapter-109](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1980-chapter-109/) - Elkais lost the bet. “Haa…” “One month.” “Damn it.” He was annoyed that he had failed to endure, yet at the same time, he wasn’t upset at all. In fact, he felt euphoric—his ears burned, and his face felt like it might explode. “Why do you look so happy?” Elkais was too drained - [1979-chapter-108](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1979-chapter-108/) - Eveline felt as if she were witnessing a breathtaking masterpiece. His jet-black hair, damp from the splashing water, clung to his skin, making him look more like a sculpted statue than a man. The way the droplets slid down his face reminded her of the fountain statue in the central square, eternally bathed - [1978-chapter-107](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1978-chapter-107/) - Eveline watched as Elkais reached out to her, but her mind was focused elsewhere. She was trying to gauge the immense energy coursing through her chest, feeling its magnitude as it pulsed around her heart. Then, as if asking to be let down, she lightly patted his chest. Understanding her silent request, he - [1977-chapter-106](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1977-chapter-106/) - Eveline found it hard to breathe as Elkais relentlessly explored the inside of her mouth. Their noses were pressed together, his prominent bridge rubbing against hers. More than anything, what she found hardest to endure was the solid muscles of his abdomen pressing against her stomach. Each time their bodies clung together and - [1976-chapter-105](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1976-chapter-105/) - Eveline felt a ticklish sensation from the strands of his jet-black hair brushing against her chest. His short hair grazed her collarbone and breasts, creating an odd, tingling feeling every time he moved. Her heightened emotions and heated body made it seem as if she could still sense the Alpha pheromones that had - [1975-chapter-104](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1975-chapter-104/) - "Ugh…" Elkais looked down at Eveline, fascinated by the way she was toying with his body. "Does it hurt?" "No." "Then why did you make that sound?" "Because it’s hard to hold back." At his response, Eveline flushed red once again. "Considering your constitution is gone, Elkais, I feel a bit hesitant since - [1974-chapter-103](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1974-chapter-103/) - "The mark has disappeared, but I still want to make you mine, Eveline." “Ugh…” Elkais traced Eveline’s lips before lifting his gaze to meet hers. "Now that the mark is gone, I want you even more." When she didn't respond and only stared at him, he pressed another kiss onto her lips. Elkais - [1973-chapter-102](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1973-chapter-102/) - “Both of you, be quiet!” At Eveline’s sharp command, both Elkais and Abellard immediately shut their mouths. As Elkais observed her expression, Abellard quickly slipped inside and perched on the edge of her bed. “Eve, Eve. Does anything hurt?” “Ugh, my head…” Her headache only worsened because of Abellard’s fussing. “I feel like - [1972-chapter-101](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1972-chapter-101/) - Elkais gripped the core of Euros in his hand, infusing it with the power of Order—an energy even greater than Remeros' power—completely halting his regeneration. At that moment, Euros returned to his human form. However, he no longer seemed capable of wielding his divine power as he once had. “If we kill him - [1971-chapter-100](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1971-chapter-100/) - “Guh…!” Abellard was channeling divine power into Elkais, who clutched his bleeding throat while sending out a slash of sword energy. Boom! “Ah, how unfortunate.” Euros muttered as he stepped back into place. His damaged body regenerated as he wiped away the black blood trickling from his wounds, slowly gazing at the three - [1970-chapter-99](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1970-chapter-99/) - “Eveline!” Elkais immediately swung his sword, slicing through Euros’ neck, while Abellard reached out and channeled divine power into Eveline. In an instant, Eveline’s wound healed, but bright red blood remained, staining her white wedding dress. “Ugh…” At that moment, her entire vision went dark. She couldn’t help but wonder if she had - [1969-chapter-98](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1969-chapter-98/) - “You’re the one who will die here…” At Eveline’s words, Euros smiled brightly. “It was truly impressive, Lady Wilden, how you pushed through the snow for the Young Duke.” “……” “And how you tried to run away because you didn’t want to kill.” Eveline was confused by how he showed no visible intent - [1968-chapter-97](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1968-chapter-97/) - “What do you mean by that? And where have you been all this time, Your Highness?” Eveline asked Ferite, directing her gaze at him. In response, Ferite smiled with a peculiar expression and looked at Eveline. “Don’t you feel like something is strange, Lady Wilden?” “What do you mean?” “When I’m not around, - [1967-chapter-96](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1967-chapter-96/) - "Aren’t you scared of the bond, Eveline?" Elkais’s question made Eveline nod slightly. "I am. Honestly... I’m really scared." Her candid answer sobered both Elkais and Abellard, their expressions growing serious. Elkais understood her feelings well. Though he now craved a bond with Eveline more than anything, there was a time when the - [1966-chapter-95](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1966-chapter-95/) - "If you don't let go, I'll hate you!" At Eveline's sharp outburst, Elkais immediately backed away, while Abellard reluctantly pulled back, as if he regretted it. "Listen to me first. Why are you both acting like this... Oh, and tone down the pheromones, please." "Touching you makes that impossible." "Eve, I can't control - [1965-chapter-94](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1965-chapter-94/) - Eveline took a deep breath, trying to steady her racing heart as the two men stared at her with a mix of confusion and disbelief. "Just listen to me for a moment," she said, gripping Elkais’s hands tightly. Her eyes darted between the two, her words rushed but firm. Elkais’s voice broke the - [1964-chapter-93](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1964-chapter-93/) - Abellard stared at the blue note in his trembling hands, his anger barely contained. [Do not anger me further.] The note shifted into a warning before igniting in blue flames, burning itself away into ash. Overwhelmed with despair, Abellard buried his face into Eveline’s chest and wept again. The relief of knowing she - [1963-chapter-92](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1963-chapter-92/) - * * * One minute before Abellard regained his senses, his body had been overtaken by Dekarv, who had struck a deal with the goddess Yulias. "Is this how you honor your promises?" Dekarv sneered. "If you’re impressed by my efficiency, I’ll take it as praise," Yulias, controlling Eveline’s body, replied coldly, releasing - [1962-chapter-91](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1962-chapter-91/) - Eveline regained consciousness but found herself not in reality. Instead, she was trapped in an illusion conjured by the goddess Yulias. For the one minute Yulias had manifested in Eveline’s body, the girl had been entirely under the goddess’s control. * * * "Eve, are you alright?" "Eveline." Her heart pounded as Elkais - [1961-chapter-90](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1961-chapter-90/) - When Eveline remained frozen, unable to answer, the letters on the snow shifted. [To prevent such a thing, make a pact with me.] "What kind of pact?" Eveline asked cautiously. She didn’t trust the goddess Yulias completely. Trust was a scarce commodity in this place. Yet, she felt she had no choice but - [1960-chapter-89](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1960-chapter-89/) - "Are you alright, Young duke?" "Ah..." Dekarv finally regained his senses. His mind had gone blank for a moment while inhabiting Abellard’s body, but the voice brought him back to reality. For a brief moment, his vision blurred, and the figure before him appeared pitch black, almost inhuman. Then, as if a mirage - [1959-chapter-88](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1959-chapter-88/) - "What are you?" Abellard glared at Crown Prince Ferite with eyes flushed crimson. "Young duke, your words have grown coarse... and your eyes have changed." "I asked, what the hell are you, you bastard?" Abellard’s expression was strange. Despite his suspicious demeanor, Crown Prince Ferite didn’t seem particularly startled. What’s more, the leg - [1958-chapter-87](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1958-chapter-87/) - After releasing his desire, Elkais held Eveline tightly. She closed her eyes as he embraced her with such force that it felt as though she might break, his ragged breaths echoing in her ears. “Haa…” “Ah…” Eveline let out a heated sigh as his warmth seeped into her. “Ugh… this… why does it - [1957-chapter-86](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1957-chapter-86/) - Elkais placed one of her legs over his shoulder, pressing down with weight as if to pin her. Even so, his touch was smooth and lingering. “Ah…” Eveline trembled at the unfamiliar sensation. The stimulation was far more intense than when his warm fingers had entered her mouth, leaving her feeling utterly - [1956-chapter-85](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1956-chapter-85/) - Eveline had initiated everything, but Elkais’s passionate kisses made it difficult for her to catch her breath. Yet, each time her cold body pressed against his warmth, it felt as if she were melting into him, drawn closer by an irresistible force. “Ugh…” She tightened her grip on his shoulders every time he - [1955-chapter-84](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1955-chapter-84/) - Eveline, despite her hazy consciousness, managed to make out the letters on the white paper in Elkais’s hand. Under normal circumstances, she might have struggled to comprehend its meaning, but her current state left no room for deep thought. Her body was trembling uncontrollably, her temperature had plummeted to 30°C, and every nerve - [1954-chapter-83](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1954-chapter-83/) - Eveline felt a wave of relief upon seeing that Elkais was still far away. The snow leopard lay in two clean halves, felled by the blade he had thrown. Which was why she needed to run—immediately and in the opposite direction. If she stayed any longer, her clothes would vanish entirely! “Ugh…!” Eveline - [1953-chapter-82](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1953-chapter-82/) - Bang! Eveline pulled the trigger, but the bear remained unscathed. Her vision was already blurry from the dizziness, and the falling snow made it even harder to see. Fortunately, the bear was startled by the loud gunshot and the bullet embedding itself in a nearby tree, and it ran off. “Ha…” Eveline let - [1952-chapter-81](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1952-chapter-81/) - “I’ll go hunt.” “Alright.” Elkais knew that leaving Abellard alone might be dangerous, but for some reason, it didn’t feel like it would be. It was because he kept doubting whether the Abellard he knew was truly the same as the one before him. With that thought, he stepped outside the cabin after - [1951-chapter-80](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1951-chapter-80/) - "It seems Duke de Robein has taken the young lord." At the Crown Prince Ferite's words, Eveline heightened her senses to detect any pheromones. Here, she could sense two Royal Alpha pheromones. However, she couldn’t pick up on the familiar scent of her own. For some reason, Crown Prince Ferite seemed to feel - [1950-chapter-79](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1950-chapter-79/) - "That will be difficult." Eveline drew her gun again. "Do not force me to attack, Your Highness. I know that if you lose consciousness, that barrier will vanish." Ferite responded to her words with a wry smile. The surroundings gradually grew quiet, as if the avalanche had come to a halt. "I can - [1949-chapter-78](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1949-chapter-78/) - "Eve!" At the sound of someone calling her from afar, Eveline turned around. A figure with pink hair wearing a black fur hat. Hearing the excited voice calling her by a nickname... Bang! "Do not come any closer." "Eve? Why...?" Eveline deliberately fired a shot anywhere to keep him from approaching. Abellard stopped - [1948-chapter-77](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1948-chapter-77/) - “Huff…!” Eveline was left alone in the snow, without a single thread of clothing. Her body temperature was plummeting. Her toes hurt terribly; snow had piled up beneath her bare feet. And her head quickly grew cold as well. Snow settled on her damp red hair, and soon, it began to freeze. As - [1947-chapter-76](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1947-chapter-76/) - [Penalty: Divine powers are restricted for one week.] "No!" Abellard screamed in anguish. "Give me any other punishment! This is too much! No, really!" As he shouted, Crown Prince Ferite glanced at him with a perplexed expression and stepped back. At that moment, the words on the paper in Abellard's hand changed. I’m - [1946-chapter-75](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1946-chapter-75/) - “Elkais...” Eveline murmured his name like a sigh, and a smile curved at the corners of his eyes. She looked down in disbelief as she saw half of her tender flesh disappear into his mouth. The warmth and sensation inside his mouth made it difficult for her to think clearly. “If you keep - [1945-chapter-74](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1945-chapter-74/) - Eveline shuddered as his breath tickled her ear, then moved to gently nip at her earlobe. The sensation sent a wave of shivers down her spine. “Ah…” “Elkais…” His voice, so close to her ear, felt like it was coursing through her veins, directly into her heart, each word - [1944-chapter-73](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1944-chapter-73/) - “Elkais!” Eveline’s voice rang out as she shivered, drenched from head to toe and overwhelmed by the cold. Yet, despite the chill, wherever she touched him felt astonishingly warm. She hadn’t realized his body heat was so high. “Sorry.” He apologized, but his smile never left his face. Eveline found herself staring at - [1943-chapter-72](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1943-chapter-72/) - "What if a beast attacks us while we’re out here?" “Is that something you should be worried about? Shouldn’t it be me instead?” “Well, that’s true. Elkais, you’d be in more danger, I suppose.” At Eveline’s words, Elkais couldn’t lift his head, embarrassed. Yet, he couldn’t look away from her either, and seeing - [1942-chapter-71](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1942-chapter-71/) - "Your Highness, why are you here?" Eveline was just as startled. She spoke to him as he pretended to sleep while holding her. He wasn’t actually asleep. She’d seen him smirk at Elkais and Abellard’s questions. “I came to wake the young lady because she seemed to be having a nightmare.” “I am - [1941-chapter-70](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1941-chapter-70/) - Eveline was startled by how Elkais' kiss grew more urgent, so she pulled away. "Sorry." "No, it’s fine. I think it’s better if you head back downstairs now." "Alright…" Elkais nodded in agreement, accepting her words. Eveline said this because she felt that if they continued, she wouldn’t be able to control - [1940-chapter-69](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1940-chapter-69/) - Eveline moved to wipe away the food on the corner of Elkais' mouth. But in that moment... "So careless." Abellard interjected, quickly wiping Elkais' mouth himself. He then cleaned his hand with his handkerchief, picked up a piece of meat with the chopsticks made of ice that didn’t melt, and took a - [1939-chapter-68](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1939-chapter-68/) - < Episode 68> "Ah;." Elkais let out a soft sigh. Eveline, knowing it was a breath of happiness, couldn’t help but smile. "Oh, right." Eveline thought it was time to finally take off her uncomfortable dress. It was difficult to move around in, and she also needed to take out the bullets. Maintaining her - [1938-chapter-67](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1938-chapter-67/) - "Your Highness, is there any way ice could stop transferring heat?" "In theory, it's possible." At that moment, Crown Prince Ferite spoke as if he had just realized something. "Oh, Lady Eveline, you're a genius." As he waved his hand in the air, a cup made of ice appeared. "But ice melts." - [1937-chapter-66](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1937-chapter-66/) - Elkais grabbed Eveline's shoulder in response to her answer, and then their lips met. And then... "Is this it?" "I don’t think we should do more." He kissed her briefly, their lips touching for a moment before he pulled away. "Do you not know how to kiss?" "No." Elkais frowned at her remark - [1936-chapter-65](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1936-chapter-65/) - "How do you expect me to know whether you'll tell me the truth or not, Lord Dekarv?" "Because I protect you." At Eveline's dry response, Dekarv looked at her with genuine amusement. His eyes narrowed into crescents as he smiled, wiping his lips with a finger. "You are saidI your masterpiece, Lord Dekarv." - [1934-chapter-63](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1934-chapter-63/) - “Are you a little short on stamina?” “I’m not a mage-warrior.” Ivenes said that without meaning to — Ferite Crown Prince’s pace felt strangely slow to her. She remembered how Elkias had carried her and moved before, and compared to that, this felt slow. Elkias used to move so fast it made her - [1935-chapter-64](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1935-chapter-64/) - “How do you even know whether I’ll tell Ivenes Willayden the truth or not?” “Because you’re the one who protects me, Lord Dekarv.” At her dry reply, Dekarv looked at her as if truly entertained. His eyes curved into crescents as he smiled, wiping his lips with a finger. “You said I was - [1933-chapter-62](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1933-chapter-62/) - “That barrier weakens if it's touched by blood infused with my divine power.” “How do you know that?” Abellard sighed as he responded. “When you and Eveline started acting strangely before, the same kind of barrier blocked our way. That’s how we broke through it.” To be more precise, it was because he - [1932-chapter-61](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1932-chapter-61/) - "Isn't this too strong?" "But it seems to be giving me some energy." Ferite had eaten a few pieces of raspberries. Then, he laughed when he saw Eveline calmly accepting the raspberries he handed her. "My lady is quite careless." "What do you mean?" "I could have poisoned the food I brought." "So, - [1931-chapter-60](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1931-chapter-60/) - "Hey!" Elkais was swimming through the sea with ease. He was no stranger to swimming. In the past, he had even swum while wearing heavy armor. So, pushing forward in the crashing waves should have been no problem for him. It should have been. "Ugh... Hey! Elkais!" No matter how much he swam - [1930-chapter-59](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1930-chapter-59/) - "Elkais!" As the body of Grand Duke Croppers fell, Eveline let out a scream. Remembering that Elkais was inside, Eveline felt her heart shatter. Then, a blinding light filled her vision, as if it would engulf everything. * * * Eveline was in immense pain. “Ugh…” The sand pressing against her face felt - [1929-chapter-58](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1929-chapter-58/) - "Are you Grand Duke Rubellite Croppers?" "Yes." "In this body, I can easily kill all of you." Rubellite, now in Elkais's body, was transforming his arm into something resembling a sword. "Is that even possible?" "I don't know. But it's not the first time I've seen it." Eveline replied, though the bizarre sight - [1928-chapter-57](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1928-chapter-57/) - “What do you think would happen if I got hurt, Eve?” “I think I would hate it.” “Hehe. Then just think about that feeling and transfer your energy to me. Healing and purification are almost the same.” Eveline closed her eyes as instructed and imagined Abellard getting hurt. He had been injured quite - [1927-chapter-56](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1927-chapter-56/) - Eveline quickly spotted Elkais rushing outside and raised the long stick he / she was holding. “Ugh…!” But she hadn’t expected this. She was only on guard against Rubellite attacking her. “Elkais…” She didn’t expect him to hurt her . “Elkais!” Elkais was running toward her, screaming as - [1926-chapter-55](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1926-chapter-55/) - Eveline and Abellard, carrying a bunch of bananas, were descending. “Brother, why did you drink so much when you were at the mansion?” “Oh, back then?” Eveline suddenly remembered the times she drank with Elkais and asked. “So that Eve would take care of me.” “...” “Whenever I drank and got sick, - [1925-chapter-54](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1925-chapter-54/) - “Even after saying that, you still don’t believe me?” “...Yeah. It doesn’t make sense.” “Then logically, me and my brother—no, Abellard—or rather, I… damn it.” Eveline sighed involuntarily as she spoke. “If I really wanted to kill you, I had plenty of opportunities yesterday. Isn’t that right?” She was right. There had - [1924-chapter-53](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1924-chapter-53/) - "Are you feeling a bit weak?" "I'm a human, not a knight." Eveline found herself saying this without realizing it, noticing the peculiar slowness of Crown Prince Ferite's steps. She couldn’t help but recall Elkais, who had carried her before. Compared to Ferite, Elkais moved so fast that it felt like she would - [1923-chapter-52](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1923-chapter-52/) - “Ugh…” At Eveline’s words, her body suddenly woke up. “Eveline!” Elkais, startled, examined Eveline’s awakened body. She didn’t seem to have many injuries aside from her neck. “Brother?” When Eveline inside Abellard said that, Elkais frowned deeply and looked at Abellard again. “My head hurts.” The awakened Eveline seemed strangely out of - [1922-chapter-51](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1922-chapter-51/) - "Were your eyes always this blue?" "Pardon?" Elkais was startled by the words that escaped his mouth. "Ugh... Don't pull your hand away. I need to use divine power." He looked at Abellard, who had instinctively pulled his hand back. It was clearly Abellard's appearance, but the behavior was like Eveline's. Thump, thump, - [1921-chapter-50](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1921-chapter-50/) - "Brother?" Eveline couldn’t hide her astonishment as she looked at her own body. If she was now inside Abellard’s body, then Rubellite and Abellard might have also switched bodies. “Are you insane?” Elkais' cold voice startled Eveline. Though he had always been kind to her, now he displayed the same fierce attitude he - [1920-chapter-49](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1920-chapter-49/) - "Pathetic, truly." "You... won't... go..." Abellard clung tightly to Rubellite's leg with arms that could barely muster any strength. Rubellite looked down at him with disdain, gripping his hair tightly. "When Eveline Wilden dies, it's all over. You know this." "If you're going to kill Eveline, kill me instead." "Why would I do - [1919-chapter-48](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1919-chapter-48/) - Elkais didn't take the offered hand and instead looked at Rubellite. Rubellite had worked with him many times in the past and was someone he trusted. But not now. The person before him now barely resembled the one he knew and seemed different in some way. "Why are you making such a proposal?" - [1918-chapter-47](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1918-chapter-47/) - Eveline' illness couldn't be healed with divine power. Her sickness was due to forcibly stabilizing the heat cycle that started the previous day. That wasn't something divine power could heal. It was simply taking time for her body to calm down because she had taken the stabilizer late. Eveline was surprised by how - [1917-chapter-46](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1917-chapter-46/) - "Take it off for me." Elkais tried to pull down the strap hanging on Eve's shoulder with his mouth. Thud! "Ugh...!" Someone kicked Elkais from behind, causing him to fall to the floor. "Eve!" "Ah... Brother?" Eve was in a daze. She felt strange, possibly due to the sense of loss from Elkais - [1916-chapter-45](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1916-chapter-45/) - Thud, thud! Abellard was desperately trying to break through the wall blocking his path. The more he used his divine power, the stronger it seemed to get, so he began hitting it with his bare hands, which seemed to be more effective. Abellard’s hands were now covered in blood as he punched the - [1915-chapter-44](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1915-chapter-44/) - “Let’s start with this dark rum.” Elkais nodded as Eveline opened the bottle. “Before that, I’ll go make some appetizers.” “What if we get too full before dinner?” “We can control how much we eat.” With that, Elkais grabbed a knife. “I’ll be back in five minutes.” “Alright.” Eveline looked outside. Curiously, there - [1914-chapter-43](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1914-chapter-43/) - The weather was strange. When Abellard and Eveline arrived at the cabin, the sky had cleared again. “I’ll go wash up now.” “Come back before sunset.” “Okay.” Abellard wanted to stay with Eveline, but he felt too melancholic to force a smile. He needed a moment to collect himself to present a better - [1913-chapter-42](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1913-chapter-42/) - “What are you talking about?” “Nothing, right?” Eveline looked at Abellard, startled. He was looking at her like a puppy caught in the rain, asking her. For some reason, Abellard’s pink hair seemed more vivid today. “Because of the rain.” “Yeah.” “I tried to kiss him, but Elkais stopped me.” “I see.” Seeing - [1912-chapter-41](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1912-chapter-41/) - “Elkais.” Eveline smiled as she wrapped her arms around Elkais's neck. “I want to kiss you.” He looked at her, pulling away slightly. She grew impatient, seeing that he was still hesitating. “What does my pheromone smell like?” “It’s very… intense. Sweet.” “Really? I want to smell Elkais’s pheromone too. Kiss me.” She - [1911-chapter-40](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1911-chapter-40/) - “Ugh…” Eveline was becoming disoriented by the raindrops falling straight on her. On the other hand, Elkais dove into the water without hesitation. "I'm hungry." Eveline started feeling a strange hunger. "Come into the water, Eveline!" Elkais couldn't get out of the water. He wanted to hold her, but he knew he wouldn't - [1910-chapter-39](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1910-chapter-39/) - "If you don't want to, you don't have to." "No, it's fine..." Elkais let out a small sigh, threw the snake far away, put down his sword, and picked up the yucca leaves, rubbing them with his hands. He then reached out to her back. "The water seems very cold." "Extremely. Keep that - [1909-chapter-38](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1909-chapter-38/) - "Are you worried that I might attack?" Elkais was startled, his eyes widening. "The last time, I noticed you couldn't resist well when I tried to attack you." "Oh." "If I seem like I'm going to do it again, just push me away. Just don't kill me. Brother Abellard will heal me." She - [1908-chapter-37](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1908-chapter-37/) - "Is that true?" Eveline looked at Abellard. She was questioning how Abellard, who hadn't carried a weapon capable of causing such a puncture wound, managed to create such a hole in his hand. "Uh... Eve... Could you look away for a moment while I explain? It's kind of hard for me to think - [1907-chapter-36](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1907-chapter-36/) - Abellard quickly scrambled up the mountain he had just descended, using both hands to push off the ground. Living on this island for a year had trained his body well, making the climb not too difficult. However, he knew that if he pretended to be in pain and struggling, Eveline would pay attention - [1906-chapter-35](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1906-chapter-35/) - "Let's go separately from here." "Moving alone is dangerous." Eveline needed time to move alone. She needed a hideout to escape from the Alpha pack. A hideout sturdy enough to shelter from the rain. Therefore, she needed time to search alone. She knew of two caves. One was on the beach, and the - [1905-chapter-34](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1905-chapter-34/) - "I swear, I never truly wanted the Lady to get hurt." Rubellite Croft said with a leisurely smile. Then, Eveline tightened her grip on the gun with a cold expression and spoke. "Do you not realize that I could kill the duke here and say it was an accident?" "I do. But I - [1904-chapter-33](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1904-chapter-33/) - "And yet, Grand Duke, you left me there and came back alone just fine." "I sent others to fetch you, didn't I?" Rubellite Croppers scanned Eveline with his eyes, amused. He seemed to find it odd that she was unharmed. "Has the power of the Young Duke of Wilden returned?" "No. I healed - [1903-chapter-32](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1903-chapter-32/) - “I told you, I’m fine.” “Huuuung…!” Abelard hugged Eveline tightly and began to cry uncontrollably. Even as he channeled his divine power to her, he couldn’t stop his tears. Eveline felt a bit embarrassed by his childlike crying and clinging. “Brother.” “Hicc... Uhhh...! You, you... Ugh…!” “It’s better if you don’t talk. I - [1902-chapter-31](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1902-chapter-31/) - "Ugh..." Eveline opened her eyes, but she couldn’t see anything. She groaned in pain, but for some reason, the pain seemed to lessen slightly with each breath she took. However, her body still hurt. The pain of feeling like every bone in her body was broken was not an illusion. If she had - [1901-chapter-30](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1901-chapter-30/) - Eveline wanted to see the entire island. She didn't plan to climb to the top, but she thought she should go in a different direction from where she had climbed last time. Not to the place where she first met Abellard at the waterfall, nor to the place where the temple of Yurias, - [1900-chapter-29](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1900-chapter-29/) - Rubellite Croppers accepted the coconut given to him by Abellard. However, inside it were finely crushed Belladonna leaves that Abellard had taken when he went out with Eveline. Since it was a poisonous leaf, consuming it would be detrimental. Abellard thought it was annoying, recalling that the date written on the note was - [1899-chapter-28](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1899-chapter-28/) - Elkais took only his longsword and the utensil knife. Duke Rubellite Croppers didn't think he would be of much help anyway, so he didn't ask him to do anything specific. Seeing that Elkais seemed to have no intention of ordering anything from him, Duke Rubellite Croppers watched as he skinned the cub puma - [1898-chapter-26](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1898-chapter-26/) - Elkais dragged the Grand Duke Croppers into the hut. “Your Excellency, over here.” “Ah.” There was a red stain smeared across Elkais’s cheek. Eveline tapped her own right cheek to signal that he should wipe it off. “This.” He handed her a handkerchief. Inside it were a few wild raspberries. It was surprising - [1897-chapter-27](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1897-chapter-27/) - Eveline said nothing. She briskly shook the water off her hair and wiped herself down with the towel Abellard had given her. She had neatly folded it on the floor, but Abellard sat on it, leaving creases from where he had sat.. Abellard's attention was fully focused on Eveline as she gracefully emerged - [1896-chapter-25](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1896-chapter-25/) - The Crown Prince of the Cropper Empire had a decent personality. Although I only encountered him face to face once after possessing, recalling what Abellard occasionally reminisced about in the books, it seemed so. Abellard desired someone higher in status than Elkais, who was equal to me. Therefore, he considered selecting the prince - [1895-chapter-24](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1895-chapter-24/) - Episode 24 I threw the note with the ominous message straight into the embers. I had just woken up and was still half-asleep, but the contents of that note jolted me wide awake, leaving me confused. What on earth is going on? The one that had helped me was the red note. The one that - [1894-chapter-23](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1894-chapter-23/) - As soon as the unfamiliar man spoke, my head started throbbing. "Ugh..." "Eve..." "Eveline!" A familiar voice was desperately calling my name. The ringing in my ears was too severe. I looked at the man with bright red hair cascading down to his waist, who was smiling in front of me, clutching my - [1893-chapter-22](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1893-chapter-22/) - He was biting the neck. The person biting from behind was Elkais, and the one biting while hugging me from the front was Abellard. Being chewed from both sides made me feel like I was being bitten by a zombie, which felt weird. I, too, didn't dislike the act, perhaps because I was - [1892-chapter-21](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1892-chapter-21/) - My thoughts were gradually becoming hazy. I'm clearly a beta, so why do I feel so strange, like the alphas who start rutting cycles? Even though I kept telling myself it's absolutely wrong, I couldn't help but think it wouldn't be so bad to be approached by two handsome men in the rain. - [1891-chapter-20](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1891-chapter-20/) - "Eve." Elkais, on the verge of fainting, recalled the conversation between Eve and Abellard. - [1890-chapter-19](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1890-chapter-19/) - When I woke up, I couldn't move. So I thought I might be caught by a mouse or trapped by scissors, but it wasn't the case. It was because of Abellard. His thick arms were wrapped around my neck, and his waist was tightly pulled. Moreover, I was sleeping with a gun in - [1889-chapter-18](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1889-chapter-18/) - "No." I refused because it seemed like Abellard would be bothersome. My Brother was like a fox. As long as I gave him what he wanted moderately, he wouldn't be bothersome. Even though we had a promise, going together to Brother's place and staying together constantly didn't seem like a good choice. The - [1888-chapter-17](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1888-chapter-17/) - "What is it?" "Eve. You have to listen to me carefully." "Yes." He seemed to be hesitating as if he was about to say something he shouldn't. He pursed his lips as if trying to speak but couldn't. Then, as if his throat was blocked, he couldn't utter a word, only making gasping - [1887-chapter-16](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1887-chapter-16/) - Bang! As Abellard fell outside the cave, our eyes met. I saw tears falling at different heights, unsure if he was crying or if it was the tears falling. Eventually, Abellard fell outside the cave, plunging below the waterfall. Splash! He seemed to fall straight down. Clicking sounds accompanied my reloading of the - [1886-chapter-15](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1886-chapter-15/) - Abellard wiped the shallow wound on his cheek left by the bullet that grazed past him with his hand. Then, he looked at the hole in the cabin wall where the bullet had pierced through. Although Abellard only felt a slight vibration from the bullet passing by his side, there was now a - [1885-chapter-14](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1885-chapter-14/) - "Your Grace." "..." "Your Grace Elkais." "Very well." He stood with his large hand covering his face. Judging by his bright red ears, it seemed like he wasn't just holding his hand there for no reason. "I'm sorry." "Did you come because you were worried?" "Yeah." He thought he needed to finish washing - [1884-chapter-13](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1884-chapter-13/) - "If you agree to go with me to my hiding place, I'll tell you. Okay?" I couldn't accept such nonsense. "Brother." "Yeah?" "I think you might have lost some sense of control since you've grown bigger." "What are you talking about?" He looked at me with a pitiful expression, his eyes becoming moist. - [1883-chapter-12](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1883-chapter-12/) - "..." He must have thought that I was actually afraid of thunder, so I had to pretend to be really trembling. In reality, I intentionally breathed oddly to make it seem like I was trembling forcefully. Breathing irregularly, then breathing properly, alternating. "It's okay." I was surprised when he started stroking my hair, - [1882-chapter-11](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1882-chapter-11/) - In the end, it was Elkais's responsibility to move the fainted Abellard to the cabin. "I'll go in first." "Yes." He said so and then lifted Abellard like a baggage and moved. I reluctantly tried to put on my coat again, feeling uncomfortable because I couldn't wash. So, although it seemed like it - [1881-chapter-10](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1881-chapter-10/) - That was natural. Elkais now looked precarious, as if he were about to collapse at any moment. Black hair clinging with cold sweat, reddened eyelashes, and breaths taken as if they were laborious. It seemed he hadn't taken the fever reducer. Well, judging by the actions of the original Eve, Wilayden, she might - [1880-chapter-9](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1880-chapter-9/) - Elkais de Robein. An adult Royal Alpha male. He had a perfect body with well-defined muscles and an extremely low body fat percentage. If there's one misconception about the human body, it's the common belief that a body with a lot of fat would be heavier. However, in reality, a muscular body is - [1879-chapter-8](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1879-chapter-8/) - The raindrops were quite fierce. It felt as if torrents were pouring down, uncontrollable like someone holding a showerhead right next to you. Having only worn an outer garment over the Neglige, my body was thoroughly soaked. The water temperature was quite cold. Despite the tropical climate, the rain was unusually cold. But - [1878-chapter-7](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1878-chapter-7/) - I had to do two things simultaneously. First, pretend to be afraid of thunder. "S-so, what do we do?" The other was not to mention meeting Abellard Wilden, my older brother. If Abellard were in a normal state, I might have told him. But no matter how you looked at it, my older - [1877-chapter-6](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1877-chapter-6/) - Looking at Abellard, my brother, his demeanor seemed strange. My hair was red. Although we were siblings, my adult brother had pink hair. It was fluffy and pretty like cotton candy. The only thing we had in common was our blue eyes. "Brother?" "Eve." As he approached, the unfamiliar feeling didn't dissipate. My - [1876-chapter-5](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1876-chapter-5/) - "You have eat all of this." It wasn't easy to feed something to him while I was pressing down on him from above. So, I said that. If it was still the early stage of the Rut Cycle, suppressing it with suppressants might work. Whether he intended to follow my words or not, - [1875-chapter-4](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1875-chapter-4/) - Thanks to the red cloth draped over my head, I didn't have to go to great lengths to act as if I were possessed, which was fortunate. "Ugh..." However, he suddenly started making strange sounds. Nevertheless, I continued to wear the red cloak. Outside, the rain was pouring, and the sound of raindrops - [1874-chapter-3](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1874-chapter-3/) - As I headed towards the cabin, I surveyed the surrounding terrain. It seemed to be an excellent location, perhaps due to the fact that it was an area where smugglers often lingered. There was a lake behind and a straight path leading to the beach in front. Seeing the trees haphazardly cut, it - [1873-chapter-2](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1873-chapter-2/) - He immediately threw the note with ominous words straight into the fire. I had just woken up, still half-asleep, but because of the contents of the note, sleep fled, and I felt confused. What on earth is going on? The red note that was helping me, and the white note that appeared to - [1872-chapter-1](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1872-chapter-1/) - Episode 1 It was said that the subconscious is an elephant. And reason was said to be the rider on top of that elephant. Therefore, it was said that when the subconscious emotions take the lead, reason cannot conquer emotions. It was said that even in situations where one shouldn't be rational if you know - [1871-chapter-27](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1871-chapter-27/) - Episode 27: The Marriage Proposal Letter (Part 2) Sienna had believed that the Emperor had gone completely insane and was beyond control. In reality, that was not the case. If that were true, running the country would have been impossible. "It's been a while, Count." "Yes." Emperor and Count Bohan had seen each other's faces - [1870-side-story-5](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1870-side-story-5/) - Side Story, Episode 5 It was a portrait of Dante as a child. Jet-black hair and cheeks rosy like apples. His youthful features were already strikingly defined, making him an undeniably adorable child, almost angelic. And yet, something felt off. ‘…His eyes.’ The crimson eyes were unusually somber, far too heavy for a child. They - [1869-side-story-4](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1869-side-story-4/) - Side Story, Episode 4 “...Truly.” Dante murmured, his voice trembling. “Can I really propose to you?” Elze replied in a flat tone, “Then who did you prepare that ring for?” Dante flinched visibly. It was when he had gone to Wilshire to eliminate a group of smugglers. He had secretly commissioned an engagement ring from - [1868-side-story-3](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1868-side-story-3/) - Side Story, Episode 3 After finishing their meal, Elze and Dante leisurely spent their time exploring. They admired the exotic scenery of Hismarion Street and browsed through trinkets displayed at street stalls, occasionally purchasing small decorative items. Dante, however, wore a slightly sulky expression. “Are you just going to keep buying things for Countess - [1867-side-story-2](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1867-side-story-2/) - Side Story, Episode 2 Once Elze became aware of Dante's anxious demeanor, she found herself increasingly preoccupied with him. It was still the early hours of the morning, long before sunrise. ‘…He hasn’t slept again, has he?’ Feigning sleep, Elze squinted her eyes slightly open and observed Dante, who remained wide awake. Even though she - [1866-side-story-1](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1866-side-story-1/) - Side Story, Episode 1 The Seporna Archipelago. A famous imperial resort consisting of numerous islands. Known for its stunning scenery and mild weather year-round, the archipelago was home to many villas owned by the empire’s nobility. Among them was Rojas Island, the largest and most developed. At the island’s highest point stood the Offenheir - [1865-chapter-148](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1865-chapter-148/) - 148. 7. Epilogue: Twenty-Six A few months later, in the vibrant season of spring. Elze, accompanied by Brigitte and her son Joseph, was returning to the Martin estate after a pleasant walk. The path was alive with greenery, the trees and grass thriving, and the warm afternoon sunlight streaming down felt delightful. From ahead, Joseph - [1864-chapter-147](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1864-chapter-147/) - 147. Elze’s usual grace was nowhere to be seen. She bared her teeth and growled at Dante. “Did you think that by dying like that, I’d forgive you?” “...” “Did you think I’d be happy to see you acting all noble, carrying everything on your own?!” The sight of Dante infuriated her to the point - [1863-chapter-146](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1863-chapter-146/) - 146. "Time keeps repeating through magic." And during those repetitive cycles, Elze continuously interacted with Dante, Lucian, and Benedict, the key figures of the regression spell. If, over the countless iterations, Elze also began to absorb magic as a result? Theoretically, it was an incredibly rare possibility. But still... ‘Could that really happen?!’ To Marguerite, - [1862-chapter-145](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1862-chapter-145/) - 145. "......" "......" An icy silence descended. Lucian, Dante, Benedict. Among the three men, none dared to open their mouths to respond. "Isn't it true? You're all responsible for Elze's death." A statement that struck the core. The three men flinched as if struck by a whip, their shoulders stiffening. Marguerite continued with a mocking - [1861-chapter-144](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1861-chapter-144/) - 144. Marguerite’s eyes widened in shock. “Lucian?!” But Lucian didn’t have the luxury to respond to her call. It felt as though every nerve in his body was burning up. But the most intense pain of all was... “My head... my head...!” It felt like someone was relentlessly pounding his skull with a hammer, breaking - [1860-chapter-143](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1860-chapter-143/) - 143. Dante was slumped, bound in chains. ‘How much time has passed?’ ‘Has the Guild Master administered the Nyx potion?’ Countless thoughts swirled in his mind, tangled and jumbled. But the destination of all these thoughts was... ‘Elze.’ The only woman who had given meaning to his life amidst the dozens, hundreds of cycles. ‘I - [1859-chapter-142](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1859-chapter-142/) - 142 Facing Marguerite’s worried expression only made the betrayal boiling inside Benedict more unbearable. Of course, her concern wasn’t entirely a lie. But it wasn’t the kind of worry one human might have for another. No, she wasn’t concerned about Benedict himself—she was worried about the essential tool for her goals breaking down. ‘Come to - [1858-chapter-26](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1858-chapter-26/) - Episode 26: The Marriage Proposal Letter (1) Somehow, things seem peaceful for a moment. Maybe I was the heroine of a romance game, not the villainess. Well, I guess being annoyed is inevitable. Thanks to Duke Stewart, I've managed to keep my composure these past few days. Otherwise, I might have collapsed from high blood - [1857-chapter-141](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1857-chapter-141/) - 141. Elze was Elze, and Benedict was Benedict. Benedict reflected on his life. From the humble beginnings of the Luneburg family—a minor provincial nobility. To elevating it to a central noble house, becoming the head of the family. To transforming the Schmaikel Trading Company into the empire’s finest. Benedict had raced through life with relentless - [1856-chapter-140](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1856-chapter-140/) - 140. Knock, knock, knock. A soft knock echoed through the room. But Lucian, slouched deeply in his chair, didn’t stir. He simply continued staring blankly at the large, cracked sapphire ring clutched in his hand. Click. The door opened, and Marguerite stepped lightly into the study. “Lucian.” “…” There was no reply. Marguerite approached him, - [1855-chapter-139](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1855-chapter-139/) - 139. “...I’m sorry.” “No, it’s fine.” Marguerite shook her head with a bitter smile. “You’ve already done so much for me.” “I’ll refine the spell as quickly as possible. Until the magic circle is complete, please rest, Lady Marguerite.” “Thank you. You always work so hard.” Marguerite whispered sweetly, her gaze softening. “Benedict, I’m counting - [1854-chapter-138](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1854-chapter-138/) - 138. Marguerite Fibrel de Sevrang. She was the sole legitimate princess of the ancient magical kingdom of Sevrang and one of the kingdom’s most gifted sorceresses. The kingdom, thought to be eternally prosperous, had suddenly met its demise. The reason was none other than the very magic they held so dear. Advanced magic demanded immense - [1853-chapter-137](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1853-chapter-137/) - 137. I opened my eyes. The sight of the carefully arranged safehouse, designed to minimize discomfort, came into view. …It was probably Dante who arranged this place for me. Fragments of memories surfaced, causing a pang of pain. It would have been better not to remember at all. If I could wipe it from my - [1852-chapter-136](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1852-chapter-136/) - 136. Dante’s eyes were filled with astonishment. I couldn’t quite understand what was happening either. I, an ordinary person with no magical power, was somehow resisting Marguerite’s immense power to freeze time. “This… what in the world…” Dante muttered, visibly shaken—a rare sight. Seeing his normally composed face twisted with confusion strangely put me at - [1851-chapter-135](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1851-chapter-135/) - 135. So, he’s implying he can handle any guards who might follow under the guise of an escort. ‘Two-ten in the afternoon.’ My eyes narrowed. ‘At that time... it’s when the guards change shifts.’ The mansion's security worked in - [1850-chapter-134](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1850-chapter-134/) - 134. A cherry pie topped with glistening red cherries, as vibrant as jewels. ‘Ah.’ A wave of memories rushed over me. Back in the days when I was scrambling to escape the boarding school, I had bought pies several times from Benedict’s pie shop under the pretense of “running errands.” I’d even handed them out - [1849-chapter-133](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1849-chapter-133/) - 133. After that, the courses began arriving one by one. It was a lavish meal. A chilled, sweet aperitif to start, followed by a delicate appetizer of smoked salmon rolled like a flower. Then came a warm soup, a dish of tender white fish pan-seared in butter, and after that, lamb chops, finished off with - [1848-chapter-132](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1848-chapter-132/) - 132. “It’s actually far safer for her if she stays away from us.” A deep shadow fell across his elegant features. If only Elze had never become involved with him in the first place, she wouldn’t have caught Marguerite’s attention. If that were the case, she wouldn’t have had to endure countless deaths. She could - [1847-chapter-131](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1847-chapter-131/) - 131. Talking about this to anyone would only earn me the label of a madman. Yet, Dante's instincts whispered to him over and over, urging him to believe. These memories were real. In the end, right before his eyes, Elze was killed by Marguerite. And he couldn't stop her. Dante, Lucian, Benedict. They were nothing - [1846-chapter-130](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1846-chapter-130/) - 130. ‘She already despises me enough as it is.’ Elze, despite everything, had a surprisingly gentle side; she tried not to hurt those who weren’t directly involved, like how she had followed him without resistance back in Ruben Village. Because of that, Dante felt shackled. If he were to push her further and earn even - [1845-chapter-129](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1845-chapter-129/) - 129. The Kalleid Duchy attempted to counter the Schmaikel Guild’s moves, but the situation only worsened by the hour. “We’re getting nowhere!” One of the vassals, scanning through documents, groaned, clutching his head. “At this rate, Kalleid will suffer endless losses!” Compared to the Marquess of Offenheir, Kalleid had limitations. Offenheir, for one, controlled numerous - [1844-chapter-128](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1844-chapter-128/) - 128. "Why? Have you come to collect my price again?" By the time I realized what I’d said, I had already lashed out at Viscount Lepherian… as if I really were Elze. “You’ve been obsessed with selling me off to the highest bidder for as long as I can remember. I see you haven’t changed.” - [1843-chapter-127](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1843-chapter-127/) - 127. Click. The parlor door swung open, and the Lepherian Viscount and Viscountess, seated on the sofa, quickly rose upon spotting Lucian entering. “We greet the Duke of Kalleid.” “No need for formalities. Please, be seated.” Lucian gestured for them to sit. “So, what brings you both to the Duke of Kalleid’s residence?” The Viscount - [1842-chapter-126](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1842-chapter-126/) - 126. In the garden earlier, when Dante encountered Marguerite, a vivid, piercing vision flashed through his mind—a memory so intense, it lingered before his eyes. He saw crimson blood soaking the ground and Elze's pale, resigned face, devoid of all hope. And he saw himself… unable to save her in the end. “I have to - [1841-chapter-125](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1841-chapter-125/) - 125. Dante scowled fiercely. "Who are you to carelessly call her name like that?" "Oh, I apologize if I upset you. I'm just used to it, that's all." Marguerite apologized politely. But her words carried a strange undertone. "Used to it," she said. How long had it even been since Elze joined under Kalleid, and - [1840-chapter-124](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1840-chapter-124/) - 124. At that moment, Dante spoke in a low voice. “Countess Martin.” Brigitte stiffened and turned to face Dante, who kept his gaze on me as he continued. “Can I trust you to take care of Elze?” “Ah, yes.” Brigitte replied hastily, moving quickly to my side. Lucian, however, tried to block her path. “It’s - [1839-chapter-123](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1839-chapter-123/) - 123. The music had barely stopped when people began to swarm Lucian. After all, this was a rare opportunity to approach the Duke of Kalleid, who had been keeping a low profile at his estate. Most notably, the retainers, who had been glaring at me as if they wanted to tear me away from him, - [1838-chapter-122](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1838-chapter-122/) - 122. Silence fell over the corridor. “......” “......” The retainers were momentarily taken aback by Lucian’s outburst, but it didn’t take long for them to respond with even more frustration. “Lord, is it true that you intend to take Lady Lepherian as your partner to the imperial party?!” The long-held grievances exploded into the open. - [1837-chapter-121](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1837-chapter-121/) - 121. Dante was running as if his life depended on it. His lungs were filled to bursting with air, and his legs felt as though they were about to give out. But he couldn’t stop. Someone was ahead, someone he had to save. The person who first taught him the joy of loving and being - [1836-chapter-120](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1836-chapter-120/) - 120. After a brief pause, Benedict gritted his teeth and asked again. “Why?” “You’re already overextending yourself because of Marquis Offenheir, aren’t you?” Elze replied calmly. “……” Benedict’s mouth clamped shut. He couldn’t deny it—Marquis Offenheir’s interference had made things difficult for the Schmaikel Trading Company. He was frustrated by his inability to refute her - [1835-chapter-119](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1835-chapter-119/) - 119. “Yes, I’m perfectly in my right mind.” Lucian replied coldly, leaving Benedict visibly stunned. “Are you doing this because you don’t know what Marquis Offenheir might do if he sees Lady Lepherian?” Benedict shot back, his voice laced with frustration. “It would be much safer to move her somewhere the Marquis can’t track. Kalleid's - [1834-chapter-118](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1834-chapter-118/) - 118. “Oh, yes.” I quickly regained my composure and fixed my gaze on Lucian. Lucian was sitting there with his mouth open like a baby bird. I placed a candy in his mouth. “Mmm, it’s sweet.” After rolling the candy around in his mouth a few times and shaking off the bitter taste, Lucian’s expression - [1833-chapter-117](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1833-chapter-117/) - 117. "How have you been?" "Of course, I've been well. I hope you’ve been doing well too, Lady Marguerite." "I have! I was a bit worried about the Duke, but thankfully, his recovery has been smooth." The two of them chatted easily, without any reservations. I stood there, quietly watching their warm exchange. Is this - [1832-chapter-116](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1832-chapter-116/) - 116. Facing his master, Liam swallowed hard. When they were still young. When they had resolved to assassinate the boss of the organization that had abused them. He had worn that same expression. The kind that said he would achieve his goal, no matter what, even if it meant killing everyone who stood in his - [1831-chapter-115](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1831-chapter-115/) - 115 “Did you have a dream you want to talk about?” Marguerite’s unexpected question broke the silence. “Huh?” I blinked, taken aback by her sudden suggestion. Marguerite leaned in, her voice soft and full of concern. “They say that sharing your bad dreams with someone can help ease your heart. Wouldn’t it be better if - [1830-chapter-114](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1830-chapter-114/) - 114 Lucian had fallen into a deep sleep, seemingly overwhelmed by the strain of his injuries. Even in his sleep, however, he clung tightly to my wrist, refusing to let go. After several minutes of carefully twisting and pulling, I finally managed to free myself from his grasp. Click. Stepping out of the room, I - [1829-chapter-113](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1829-chapter-113/) - 113 ‘No.’ I thought, trying to suppress the strange discomfort rising within me. ‘It's because I'm someone who lacks warmth toward others… that's why I feel this way.’ I knew myself well. At my core, I was suspicious, sensitive, selfish, full of fear, and constantly worrying. Like a baby rabbit, always on high alert, needing - [1828-chapter-112](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1828-chapter-112/) - 112 “...” I suddenly realized I had been pushed to the far corner of the room, barely able to see Lucian anymore. “Lady, could you step aside a bit? You're in the way.” One of the servants said sharply. “Oh, sorry.” I mumbled, stepping back quickly. Still, I craned my neck, trying to get a - [1827-chapter-111](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1827-chapter-111/) - 111 She frantically scanned her surroundings, only to be pulled back into the carriage just as quickly. At the same time, a sharp shout erupted from a man. “Run!” It was a familiar voice. The only special student at the boarding school. ...And the one who had escaped and destroyed the school himself. “Ah.” Dante - [1826-chapter-110](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1826-chapter-110/) - 110 Screech! The carriage swerved violently. I struggled to keep myself from being thrown to the floor, but a cold chill ran through me. 'A gun?!' There was only one person in this world who owned a gun. One of the three male leads who could wield magic tools—Dante, the master of the magical gun. - [1825-chapter-109](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1825-chapter-109/) - 109 The distant sounds of the organization's members shouting reached my ears. Bang! Boom! Following that, the explosion of something being blown apart echoed through the air. 'What’s going on?' Could it be that someone has actually managed to break in? But this is supposed to be a safe house where Dante himself resides. There’s - [1824-chapter-108](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1824-chapter-108/) - 108 I froze. ‘...Can I really leave this place?’ To be honest, the current situation was suspicious. How had the original heroine managed to enter the deepest part of the mansion? How had she slipped past the strict security? And what gave her such confidence when she said she could help me escape? My head - [1823-chapter-107](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1823-chapter-107/) - 107 Dante stared relentlessly at Elze’s sleeping face. It felt as if, even if he looked away for a single moment, she might stop breathing. His gaze was persistent. ‘It’s alright.’ Dante desperately reassured himself. ‘She’s alive.’ He watched, his eyes wide open, as Elze’s chest rose and fell ever so slightly. The doctor had - [1822-chapter-106](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1822-chapter-106/) - 106 With immense strength, I quickly lifted my head. Dante, with a distorted expression, spat out his words harshly. “If you drink all this sugar water… and promise to eat properly from now on.” “Marquis.” “…Then I’ll allow you to take a walk.” Dante immediately added a condition. “But, I have to accompany you.” A - [1821-chapter-105](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1821-chapter-105/) - 105 “...” Liam stared at me for a moment, then skillfully hid his sympathy and began to speak. “These are the financial records of the Offenheir Marquisate.” He stacked the documents neatly. “This is a list of businesses the Marquis manages and the organizational structure... and here are the lower-level organizations…” “...” Naturally, I listened - [1820-chapter-104](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1820-chapter-104/) - 104 Dante strode down the hallway, pulling a cigarette case and matches from his pocket. “Damn it…” He cursed under his breath. His mind was in chaos. He felt like he couldn’t calm down unless he filled his lungs with cigarette smoke immediately. But. Scratch. The match wouldn’t light properly. After a couple of failed - [1819-chapter-103](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1819-chapter-103/) - 103 A few days had passed. It was a pitch-black night, with not even the moon in the sky. I sat blankly, my eyes wandering around the room. The wardrobe was filled with luxurious dresses, and in the shoe rack, high-heeled shoes were neatly arranged. A jewelry box held expensive gems that rolled around like - [1818-chapter-102](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1818-chapter-102/) - 102 “...” I bit my lip. Seeing the sheer number of guards placed around me made it clear—Dante didn’t trust me at all. ‘I was foolish.’ What on earth did I think I had left to expect from Dante? Why couldn’t I completely give up hope? If he had truly treated me as an - [1817-chapter-101](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1817-chapter-101/) - 101 "Liar." I hesitated, stepping back. “You were like this before, and you’re still like this now.” Step. The more I retreated, the closer Dante approached, closing the distance between us. “You really are quite a handful, aren’t you? I was so happy, thinking you had finally matured, but to think…” Dante’s smile deepened. “…that - [1816-chapter-100](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1816-chapter-100/) - 100. If I had run this coffee house with profit in mind, it would have gone bankrupt long ago. After all, coffee houses are typically businesses that cater to nobles and wealthy commoners. Mine was the first coffee house ever established in this village since its founding... The concept of a coffee house was - [1815-chapter-99](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1815-chapter-99/) - 99. My name here was Aria. Having purchased the identity of a commoner, I had no family name. But just being free from the name Lepherian made me feel like I could fly—it was such a relief. Mr. Tom winked at me. "The green apples that are in season now are incredibly sweet. What - [1814-chapter-98](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1814-chapter-98/) - 98. "Suicide?" The Viscount's eyes trembled violently. "Isn't it boring to die easily?" Lucian shrugged lightly. "I want you to suffer as much as possible before you die. So why don't you struggle as hard as you can?" His voice was filled with cruel enjoyment, like a child pouring water on an anthill and - [1813-chapter-97](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1813-chapter-97/) - 97. There were no words of understanding for arriving without an appointment, no formal apologies, not even a semblance of regret. Nothing at all. Brigitte’s eyes narrowed. “...” It was clear that Dante had been through a lot of stress; he seemed to have lost some weight since the last time she saw him. But - [1812-chapter-96](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1812-chapter-96/) - 96. Feliz Restaurant, the pride of Sortone Harbor. A surprising guest arrived at the restaurant late at night when even the seagulls were nestled in their nests, fast asleep. Click. The restaurant door opened. The owner, who was sweeping the floor, turned around irritably. “We’re closed for the day… Gasp.” In an instant, the owner's - [1811-chapter-95](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1811-chapter-95/) - 95. “Count, we’ve received word that 'the incident' has occurred at the academy.” The subordinate reported cautiously. Benedict showed no surprise at all. Instead, he maintained a calm demeanor, as if he had been waiting for this moment for a long time. “And the security and fire brigades?” “They’ve already been notified. They should be - [1810-chapter-25](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1810-chapter-25/) - Episode 25: Discord (3) What was interesting? Percy thought of Sienna. It wasn't in the realm of logic, so even Percy couldn't explain it with clarity. It was like being drawn to a magnet. The moment he saw her, she was interesting. ‘Especially the expression that looks like she's forcing herself to speak out loud. - [1809-chapter-94](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1809-chapter-94/) - 94. And then. “Huh, Marquis?!” The coachman's shocked voice broke the silence. “What’s the fuss about?” Dante’s frown deepened, only briefly. “T-The academy...!” “What?!” Dante jerked his head toward the window in alarm. In the distance, the Rose Cross Academy was visible, engulfed in red flames that licked the sky. “What is this!” Dante’s eyes - [1808-chapter-93](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1808-chapter-93/) - 93. I stepped into the office. Liam glanced up briefly, then greeted me with recognition. “Ah, Lady Elze.” “Am I interrupting you while you’re busy?” “It’s alright. Since it’s you, Lady Elze, of course, I must make time.” Liam set down his pen and remarked playfully, as if to show he was listening. “I’d be - [1807-chapter-24](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1807-chapter-24/) - Episode 24: Discord (2) ‘But Julius is doing something good for me? That's strange.’ I had every reason to be grateful to Julius for delaying my return to the palace as much as possible. However, it was hard to believe that Julius would do something like that for my sake. I narrowed my eyes and - [1806-chapter-92](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1806-chapter-92/) - 92. In the southern part of the empire. In the Wilshire region, known as the haven for smugglers. In a darkened basement, a man tightly bound and bloodied sat slumped against the wall. His mouth was firmly gagged, and his entire body was covered in blood from brutal beatings. Creeeak— The chilling sound of a - [1805-chapter-23](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1805-chapter-23/) - Episode 23: Discord (1) In a dimly lit study, a single flickering candle cast uneasy shadows. Inside the study stood the protagonist, Beth, with her golden hair intricately braided. She stood in front of a bookshelf. Beside her was a young man who had stepped out of the role of a mere boy, embracing her - [1804-chapter-91](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1804-chapter-91/) - 91. Dante twitched his eyebrows. “What?” “Today... it was really enjoyable.” He said sweet words out of habit, but his heart felt as if it had swallowed a block of ice. ‘How can I tell you that walking around in high heels is difficult?’ I’m not supposed to whine like that. I’m just a pretty, - [1803-chapter-90](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1803-chapter-90/) - 90. "Come on, don’t make that face." Dante frowned slightly as he raised his beer mug. "I wasn’t trying to make you uncomfortable." "I’m not uncomfortable. It’s just..." I fidgeted with the beer mug in my hands. As cold as the mug felt, my heart felt just as chilled. "I feel like I spoke carelessly - [1802-chapter-89](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1802-chapter-89/) - 89. 'That time... it was also during the harvest festival.' Back then, the Lepherian Viscounty was buzzing with excitement for the harvest festival. My father had taken my half-brother, born from my stepmother, out to enjoy the festival. I pretended to be indifferent and holed up in my room. But feeling secretly upset, I bit - [1801-chapter-22](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1801-chapter-22/) - Episode 22: Subtle Emotions (2) Contrary to Sienna's thoughts, Daniel had already questioned why his fiancée was at the Stewart mansion once. He had even confronted Prince Julius, who was more challenging to deal with than Percy. "She is my fiancée! If she wasn't feeling well, she should have informed me. There are no better - [1800-chapter-88](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1800-chapter-88/) - 88. "......" I remained silent. Every time Dante showed me such consideration... ...I felt strangely lost. "How long has he been waiting?" "He's been waiting for about an hour." "......" I was at a loss for words once again. 'An hour?' Dante was one of the busiest people in the empire. And he had been - [1799-chapter-87](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1799-chapter-87/) - 87. The discarded dress lay sprawled on the floor like a shed skin. In the darkness, my limbs stood out pale and exposed. "......" Dante silently gazed at my naked body. A strange light flickered across his crimson eyes. Lust? No, it wasn't a simple emotion like that. It was more like... "I want to - [1798-chapter-21](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1798-chapter-21/) - Chapter 21: Subtle Emotions (1) "Oh, thinking about it makes me angry." On the third day of the game, Daniel, who had gone to the study to take out a book, saw Beth and Lucas exchanging words. - What are they doing right now? - Uh, Brother! Startled, Lucas fled, leaving Daniel and Beth alone - [1797-chapter-86](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1797-chapter-86/) - 86. "......" Dante was struck at his core. He tightly sealed his lips. His violet eyes held a cold glint as they stared at Dante. "Do you have any sincerity towards the Marquis? Do you really love Lady Lepherian?" "Of course...!" Dante reflexively tried to respond but hesitated. Countless words tangled messily inside his mouth. - [1796-chapter-85](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1796-chapter-85/) - 85. After finishing my discussion with Brigitte disguised as a walk, I was on my way back when I noticed a familiar figure. It was Benedict. ‘Ah.’ Normally, I wouldn’t be pleased to see him, but now I felt a bit relieved. I was curious about how my escape plan was progressing. However, as I - [1795-chapter-84](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1795-chapter-84/) - 84. "Brigitte." Brigitte, who was sitting, turned to look at me as if she had been waiting. Our eyes met. "Lady Lepherian, the surrounding garden is quite beautiful." Brigitte stood up with a bright smile. "If it's alright with you, would you like to take a stroll with me around here?" "I would be delighted, - [1794-chapter-83](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1794-chapter-83/) - 83. From the debutante party to the Diorlance Club, Dante had been acting as if he genuinely cared about me. The nobles, unable to openly defy Dante, kept their malice hidden, which was unsettling in its own way. “Wow, it’s beautiful.” I looked around and murmured in admiration. Today's cocktail party was held in the - [1793-chapter-82](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1793-chapter-82/) - 82. Clang, clang! The door closed. Left alone, Lucian repeated Elze’s words in his mind. "I will definitely help you escape." Her kind voice kept echoing in his ears. “…” Lucian lifted his head to gaze at the vase of cornflowers she had left behind. Then, carefully, he touched the blue-purple petals. …They were soft. - [1792-chapter-81](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1792-chapter-81/) - 81 I sat in the carriage, feeling a bit embarrassed as I looked down at the items I had brought along. ‘Hmm, is this too much?’ I had recently started raising pigeons, and it didn’t feel right to visit empty-handed. I had used the excuse of going out to buy pigeon supplies. But as I - [1791-chapter-80](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1791-chapter-80/) - 80. “...” I pressed my lips together, struck by the truth. Liam, having suddenly learned about his master’s intimate night with his lover, struggled to hide his appalled expression. Dante added slyly. “Rest well in bed today.” “Th-thank you...” ...Did he really have to be so blatant with Liam right there? With that, Dante left - [1790-chapter-79](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1790-chapter-79/) - 79. Suddenly, Dante had a thought. He wondered if his abnormal possessiveness had deprived Elze of the ordinary happiness that other ladies enjoyed daily. “I think I’ve been too greedy. The Marquis has given me so much…” Elze’s voice trailed off weakly. Meanwhile, seeing the shadow cast over Elze’s face... ‘I don’t like it.’ Dante - [1789-chapter-78](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1789-chapter-78/) - 78. "The Heart of Winter, sold for 300,000 Derk!" Upon hearing that announcement, I clenched my fist tightly. ‘Got it.’ At the same time, Benedict leaned towards me. “You seem happy.” “Yes, I’m really happy.” For once, feeling genuinely pleased, I answered honestly. Of course, I had obtained the key to escaping the boarding school. - [1788-chapter-77](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1788-chapter-77/) - 77. I suddenly recalled the backstory of the Heart of Winter. In fact, after Viscount Craig learned about the existence of that jewel, he had pleaded with Dante to return it. [Please return it to me!] [No.] But Dante refused outright. The reason was to give Viscount Craig a motive. Specifically, a motive - [1787-chapter-76](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1787-chapter-76/) - 76. “……” “The story gathered from mere information is different from hearing it directly from the person, isn't it?” Normally, I would have brushed it off with a joke, but Benedict seemed strangely serious this time. ‘Hmm.’ Maybe because it was the first time someone was willing to listen to my story. It felt - [1786-chapter-75](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1786-chapter-75/) - 75 For a moment, my eyes narrowed. R. B. An abbreviation common throughout the empire. Given that the shop's name is Baker, one would typically think it's the initials of the shop owner's name. But if you flip those initials... 'Benedict Luneburg.' ...If you're going to send a bird out of the blue, could - [1785-chapter-74](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1785-chapter-74/) - 74 But doesn't Dante seem to quite dislike Benedict? Sensing my confusion, Benedict immediately provided an explanation. "Although the Marquis is extremely capricious, his secretary is quite a rational person." Ah, so Liam was there. I understood. Benedict added lightly. "I receive an invitation for every auction that is held." Well, Benedict is one of - [1784-chapter-73](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1784-chapter-73/) - 73. "Sure." Dante, giving me a mischievous smile, asked me in a subtle tone. "Is there anything you want?" "Something I want?" "Yeah. Not that I'm trying to make amends for this with a gift, but..." No, it's obvious that he's trying to make amends. Instead of giving him a hard time, I quietly listened - [1783-chapter-72](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1783-chapter-72/) - 72. Dante smiled charmingly with his eyes. His black hair was damp, suggesting he had already showered. I clicked my tongue inwardly. 'Really, I have to give it to him for his stamina.' Despite drinking so much, he was up at the crack of dawn, showering. He must have washed off most of his hangover - [1782-chapter-71](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1782-chapter-71/) - 71 Dante stared at the empress with an expressionless face. If he was to die, he would have preferred to die at his mother’s hands, but… 'No.' He shook his head internally. His mother was already in a precarious mental state. Asking her to kill him would be too - [1781-chapter-70](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1781-chapter-70/) - 70 "..." "So, even though I worked so hard because Liam gave me a day off again... how hard I worked..." His rambling words gradually faded away. It seemed like drowsiness was taking over, probably due to the effects of alcohol. "Lord." "..." "Lord?" I called Dante several times, but he just tightened his arms - [1780-chapter-69](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1780-chapter-69/) - 69 It seemed like he had just come from a meeting with a business partner, as he was dressed in a luxurious suit. However, despite making the effort to dress in a suit, Dante at the moment was far from the cleanliness typical of a businessman. 'Why is his attire like that?' The neatly tied - [1779-chapter-68](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1779-chapter-68/) - 68 "May I ask for the reason?" "Well..." Suddenly, Dante remembered Elze. A midsummer day when clusters of lilac hydrangeas bloomed, as if gathering the sweetest and most fragrant things in the world. A woman, as if made from gathering only the most vivid hues, looked at him with those distinct honey-colored eyes. Looking into - [1778-chapter-67](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1778-chapter-67/) - 67 What is this feeling? It's like the child who always seemed younger than me suddenly grew up. This unfamiliarity and excitement... After taking a short deep breath to calm my heart, I smiled at Lucian. "Have you been well?" "Eh, so-so." Lucian shrugged casually. "Have you been eating well lately?" "Why are you suddenly - [1777-chapter-66](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1777-chapter-66/) - 66 "..." I felt a pang in my heart. Feeling like my innermost thoughts were exposed, I instinctively lowered my gaze. Brigitte spoke calmly, "There are times like that. When nobody helps me, and I feel so helpless..." Her grip on my hand tightened, and I could feel the strength in Brigitte's grasp. "I'd rather - [1776-chapter-65](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1776-chapter-65/) - 65 Thunk. I took a step forward. The sound of my shoe heel hitting the marble floor echoed sharply. The students, who had been engrossed in conversation, reflexively turned towards me. "..." "..." As soon as they spotted me, the students reflexively fell silent. Among them, only Brigitte wore a welcoming expression. "Oh my goodness, - [1775-chapter-64](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1775-chapter-64/) - 64 The red eyes, filled with sleepiness, seemed somewhat gentler than usual. "My throat is dry." "Mm..." Dante, with a response or perhaps a teasing sound, rested his head on my bare thigh. Then he whispered quietly. "Just stay like this... a little longer." With those words. Dante fell soundly asleep again. "..." His face, - [1774-chapter-63](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1774-chapter-63/) - 63 Throughout the return journey to the boarding school, Elze remained silent. And Dante found that silence oddly irritating. "Darling." At his call, Elze raised her head briefly. In the darkness of the carriage, only her honey-colored eyes shimmered faintly. It was a sweet shade of light that he wanted to swallow up in one - [1773-chapter-62](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1773-chapter-62/) - 62 "Really? That's a shame. Seems like you're quite intimate with the Second Prince?" In response to Dante's pointed question, Benedict replied politely. "Well, we're just trying to maintain courtesy towards each other. Simply not crossing the line can often keep relationships between people quite smooth, don't you think?" Neither of them backed down. I - [1772-chapter-61](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1772-chapter-61/) - 61 Why are you causing a commotion by inserting yourself in the middle? I felt the urge to escape immediately, but I couldn't be sure if my neck would stay safely in its place if I actually did so. ‘It's probably better to greet him quickly and leave.’ I stood up from my seat and - [1771-chapter-60](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1771-chapter-60/) - 60 Coincidentally, the gatekeeper at the entrance of the club noticed us. "Excuse me, could you please state your name?" It was a procedure to confirm club membership. Dante, who cast a sidelong glance at the gatekeeper, responded in a nonchalant tone. "Dante Dessaby Offenheir." For a moment, a slight surprise and fear flickered in - [1770-chapter-59](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1770-chapter-59/) - 59 * * * Lucian had a dream from a long time ago. However, it wasn't a nightmare of a winter day with drizzling rain. Rather, it was from a slightly earlier period. A time when his parents were still alive, and Lucian was the happiest boy in the world. [Dad!] Lucian ran towards his - [1769-chapter-58](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1769-chapter-58/) - 58 "Marquis, you don't need to do this." I tried to hastily dissuade Dante, but he responded nonchalantly, "No, I want to." I gazed at Dante with a delicate look. Even if it was to put on my shoes, I never expected to witness that arrogant man kneeling in front of someone. Moreover, '...I never - [1768-chapter-57](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1768-chapter-57/) - 57 * * * Dante flaunted his efforts with money. Yes, out of the blue, there was talk of an extravagant tour of high-end shops on Antique Street. "We need to attend the Diorance Club soon, right?" With those words, he took me forcefully to Madame Tilda's clothing store to start the day. "It's okay; - [1767-chapter-56](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1767-chapter-56/) - Episode 56 Now, let's go back to the original story. The current missing heirloom of the Kalleid Duchy. 'The Heart of Winter.' It was a blue sapphire ring passed down through generations in the ducal family. After the untimely death of the previous Duke and Duchess, the ring went missing when Lucian was still young. - [1766-chapter-55](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1766-chapter-55/) - 55 However, I wasn't disappointed. That's because I had already anticipated that Benedict would respond in such a way. 'Well, it's better not to take it too seriously if I accept it right away.' To succeed in business, two virtues are needed. The determination to seize a great opportunity and proceed. Caution in evaluating whether - [1765-chapter-54](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1765-chapter-54/) - 54 "Welcome!" "......" As someone who knew the true identity of that man, I found it a bit fascinating. The owner of the Schmaikel, the top of the empire's commercial district, welcoming guests with enthusiasm in a small pie shop. And today, he wasn't even standing at the cashier, but diligently wiping the tables with - [1764-chapter-53](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1764-chapter-53/) - 53 The very next morning, Dante emptied the boarding school. I stood in front of the boarding school gate, bidding Dante farewell with a smiling face. "After you're done with your busy work, be sure to come find me again." "Hmm." Dante, who was looking down at me with a teasing expression, lightly tapped my - [1763-chapter-52](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1763-chapter-52/) - 52 Dante stared at me with an icy expression, and I felt my mouth go dry. Honestly, it was terrifying. I wanted to immediately apologize, kneel down, and somehow appease Dante, matching his mood. I wanted to resolve the situation right away. However, ‘I can't yield on this matter.’ Even for me, confronting Dante like - [1762-chapter-51](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1762-chapter-51/) - 51 A cold silence lingered. "..." "..." Liam silently lowered his head. In such a state, it was best not to provoke Dante. Quite literally, he was like a ticking time bomb ready to explode, consuming everything around him once touched. "Well, fine." After a moment, Dante, who seemed somewhat calmer, twisted the corner of - [1761-chapter-50](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1761-chapter-50/) - 50 ...It was the right answer. Yes, it's a bit regrettable that I couldn't properly celebrate my coming-of-age ceremony. Moreover, I had the debutante ball and even danced with others. It would be strange if Lucian didn't envy that. Besides, considering Lucian is at such a young age, having recently come of age, I could - [1760-chapter-49](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/chapter_text_content/1760-chapter-49/) - 49 "It seems that it's due to the special student's weakened state." "Weakened? Why?" "Yes. He's been having trouble sleeping for the past few days. I don't know for sure, but it seemed like he was having nightmares." I stared at the guard, demanding an explanation. The guard quickly continued with the explanation. "He periodically ## Categories - [She is the Daughter of the Villainess in a Melodramatic Novel](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/category/she-is-the-daughter-of-the-villainess-in-a-melodramatic-novel/) - [I've Become a Slave Bride](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/category/ive-become-a-slave-bride/) - [Novel](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/category/novel/) - [After Online Dating with Unlimited Streaming BOSS](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/category/after-online-dating-with-unlimited-streaming-boss/) - [No More Regrets Just K*ll Me](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/category/no-more-regrets-just-kll-me/) - [After the Wicked Wife Leaves](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/category/after-the-wicked-wife-leaves/) - [The Villainess Writes A Resignation Letter](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/category/the-villainess-writes-a-resignation-letter/) - [Even if the Villain's Daughter Regresses](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/category/even-if-the-villains-daughter-regresses/) - [I Stole the Heroine's Holy Grail](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/category/i-stole-the-heroines-holy-grail/) - 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[Child Protagonist](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/child-protagonist/) - [Childcare](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/childcare/) - [Transmigration](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/transmigration/) - [Amnesia](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/amnesia/) - [Ancient Times](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/ancient-times/) - [Boys Love](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/boys-love/) - [Cold Protagonist](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/cold-protagonist/) - [Female Protagonist](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/female-protagonist/) - [Game Elements](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/game-elements/) - [Level System](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/level-system/) - [Overpowered Protagonist](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/overpowered-protagonist/) - [Reincarnation](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/reincarnation/) - [Revenge](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/revenge/) - [Second Chance](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/second-chance/) - [Smut](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/smut/) - Graphic and detailed sexual scenes, emphasizing physical pleasure over emotional or romantic connections, often catering to various fantasies and desires. - [Beautiful Female Lead](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/beautiful-female-lead/) - [Fantasy](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/fantasy/) - [Romance](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/romance/) - [Smart Protagonist](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/smart-protagonist/) - [Survival](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/survival/) - [Comedy](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/comedy/) - [Cunning Protagonist](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/cunning-protagonist/) - [Game](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/game/) - [Horror](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/horror/) - [Thriller](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/thriller/) - [Survival Game](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/survival-game/) - [Action](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/action/) - [slice of life](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/slice-of-life/) - [Drama](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/drama/) - [Tragedy](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/tragedy/) - [Historical](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/historical/) - [Ruthless MC](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/tag/ruthless-mc/) - 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[Invincible](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/invincible/) - [Xianxia](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/xianxia/) - [Honghuang](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/honghuang/) - [Martial art](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/martial-art/) - [Chasing Wife Crematorium](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/chasing-wife-crematorium/) - [Guideverse](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/guideverse/) - [Dragons](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/dragons/) - [Romance Fantasy](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/romance-fantasy/) - [Gentle Male Lead](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/gentle-male-lead/) - [Misunderstanding Comedy](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/misunderstanding-comedy/) - [Growth Story](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/growth-story/) - [Family Story](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/family-story/) - [Capable Male Lead](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/capable-male-lead/) - [Obsessive Male Lead](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/obsessive-male-lead/) - 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[Kind Heroine](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/kind-heroine/) - [Tsundere Male Lead](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/tsundere-male-lead/) - [Younger Male Lead](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/younger-male-lead/) - [Time Slip](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/time-slip/) - [Revenge Story](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/revenge-story/) - [Political Scheming](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/political-scheming/) - [Female-Lead Fantasy](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/female-lead-fantasy/) - [Strong Inside Soft Outside](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/strong-inside-soft-outside/) - [Genius Heroine](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/genius-heroine/) - [Reverse Age Gap Raising Trope](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/reverse-age-gap-raising-trope/) - [Obsessive Love](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/obsessive-love/) - [Gumiho Male Lead](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/gumiho-male-lead/) - [Holy Knight Female Lead](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/holy-knight-female-lead/) - [Sickly Female Lead](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/sickly-female-lead/) - [“Only the Gumiho Isn’t Allowed to Be Hurt](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/only-the-gumiho-isnt-allowed-to-be-hurt/) - [” “Please Become Independent](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/please-become-independent/) - [” “Let’s Stay Together Forever”](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-tag/lets-stay-together-forever/) ## Manga Release Year - [2021](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-release/2021/) - [2022](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-release/2022/) - [2024](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-release/2024/) - [2025](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-release/2025/) - [2026](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-release/2026/) - [2020](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-release/2020/) ## Manga Authors - [Park Haerin](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/park-haerin/) - [JJENO](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/jjeno/) - [江俯晴流](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/江俯晴流/) - [나물결](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/나물결/) - [시나몬](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/시나몬/) - [Renning](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/renning/) - [Oh Hyun-chae](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/oh-hyun-chae/) - [르릅](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/르릅/) - [CRSXZ](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/crsxz/) - [Hwaha](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/hwaha/) - [Susybunbun](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/susybunbun/) - [Kurokami](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/kurokami/) - [忘情汽水](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/忘情汽水/) - [SurroundedbyBooks](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/surroundedbybooks/) - [헤럴드 캐럴](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/헤럴드-캐럴/) - [Hyla](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/hyla/) - [FreshButterBar](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/freshbutterbar/) - [Elle](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/elle/) - [Park Soo-bi](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/park-soo-bi/) - [이제밀](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/이제밀/) - [Lee Je-mil](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/lee-je-mil/) - [매콤오이지](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/매콤오이지/) - [Spicy pickled cucumbers](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/spicy-pickled-cucumbers/) - [달슬](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/달슬/) - [Danaan](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/danaan/) - [다사야](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-author/다사야/) ## Manga Artists - [N/A](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-artist/n-a/) ## Manga Genres - [action](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/action/) - [fun](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/fun/) - [drama](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/drama/) - [fighting](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/fighting/) - [adventure](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/adventure/) - [chinese](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/chinese/) - [Romance](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/romance/) - [fantasy](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/fantasy/) - [Tragedy](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/tragedy/) - [R-19](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/r-19/) - [Mature](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/mature/) - [Historical](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/historical/) - [Ancient](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/ancient/) - [Martial Arts](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/martial-arts/) - [Josei](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/josei/) - [Bitter-sweet](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/bitter-sweet/) - [Eastern](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/eastern/) - [Male Lead](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/male-lead/) - [Urban](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/urban/) - [Wuxia&Xianxia](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/wuxiaxianxia/) - [Comedy](https://blackvelvetelegy.com/manga-genre/comedy/)