Guest, do you have any idea what you mean to me?

When I returned after ending a seven-year war by imperial decree, all that awaited me was the dishonorable nickname 'War Demon' and eyes filled with fear.

Even though a celebratory banquet was held in my honor, it felt like walking on a path of thorns; it was just another battlefield I couldn't touch.

While everyone else enjoyed the party and danced, I just tilted my wine glass, praying to get drunk quickly. The fifth glass was already churning my stomach as if sand had been poured down my throat. If you hadn't come to me then, I would have been tilting my sixth.

'If you drink like that, you'll suffer tomorrow, you know?'

Approaching me out of nowhere while munching on a macaron, you... made me let out a hollow laugh. You made me want to put down the glass I was holding. For some reason, everything suddenly felt so sweet.

I still remember that day vividly.

On the day of the hunting festival, when you fell into the water and were sinking into the depths, my heart felt like it was going to explode. The relief I felt when I threw away all dignity and saved you...

That's why I was okay. Even when you mistook the Marquis for the one who saved you, and even when you eventually got engaged to him. I was okay because you were safe, and because you looked happy.

But at the Imperial Ball, when I saw you staring blankly and alone at the Marquis, who was dancing with another woman and didn't even spare you a glance, I felt something snap inside me. I made a vow.

I will save you once again—you, who became my salvation.

'My Lady, wouldn't a Duke be better than a Marquis?'

It's my turn now. I will surely be your salvation.