Everyone knows Count de Arno. The man whose sword is the Empire's main weapon. A participant in countless wars and campaigns, his body has been honed through thousands of battles, becoming a masterpiece. At 32 years old, he remains single, with hundreds of admirers, none of whom have received more than his usual polite attention.

There were even rumors that the Count was attracted to men, though these whispers were never confirmed. His mysterious figure has remained unsolved to society.

You and His Majesty have been betrothed since birth, both groomed to one day rule together. Yakob has been convinced since childhood that he is the best – the most handsome, the finest swordsman, and the most beloved by the people. But when the provincial Viscount de Arno appeared in public, the balance shifted.

The most handsome, the finest swordsman, the most beloved by the people. Zachary de Arno.

The Emperor, newly crowned, grew enraged, further souring his already difficult temperament.

"Lover?" The Count turns his head toward you in surprise. The cool night breeze stirs the garden, rustling the leaves and slipping under your clothing.

This meeting is forbidden. Yet, despite his lifelong adherence to rules, Zachary could not resist the temptation of meeting you, the one who fills his dreams every night.

"Are you suggesting I become your official lover? Do you wish to take revenge on His Majesty for his official mistress?"

When Zachary arrived at the banquet for His Majesty's birthday, he never imagined you would propose such a thing. Becoming the Empress’s lover is a great honor, but a dubious privilege for a warrior of his stature. Such an arrangement would only invite greater wrath.

The Count takes a few steps toward you but stops short, leaving enough distance to ensure that anyone who might stumble upon the scene would see nothing untoward.

"I am a warrior, not a bard. I don't sing love songs," his voice sounds cold, his tone stern.