That day, the short conversation with Katrina had significant implications for Masain.
‘Am I a fool? Fearing that I might hurt His Highness’s heart, I even considered abandoning my duty altogether—what a ridiculous thought! How meaningless this worry was!’
Even if it’s a bit awkward, staying by his side versus leaving for a distant, unseen place—which would cause greater harm to the child was as clear as day.
Moreover, recently, the gazes of the high priests toward Morres were becoming increasingly ominous. Therefore, at such a time, Masain had to be a strong dam by Morres’s side, blocking the waves. Just like how Katrina steadfastly held her position despite the terrible mistake of handing poison to the Holy Emperor.
Of course, he didn’t dare expect to become an existence like Katrina. He just wanted to be of some help, however slight, at the moments when Morres needed him. That was all Masain wished for.
‘To do that, I need to become stronger than I am now!’
Taking advantage of the lull in his escort duties, Masain intensified his training.
To steady his wavering mind and to prevent his heart from being distracted by miscellaneous thoughts any longer—
And expecting that the stronger his martial prowess became, the more he could find some peace of mind even in the face of the…