"To protect myself—and to protect you—I must become stronger. So what if the road ahead is perilous? So what if even the Emperor only uses me and then plans to dispose of me when I’m no longer useful? In my previous life, you risked everything to shield me. This time, it’s my turn to fight for you, no matter the cost."
"Everyone in Yun Manor has been placed under house arrest—not a single one was killed. Their lives and deaths are in your hands now. This is my first gift to you." Lucian Fox pressed a bronze token into Zara Yun’s palm. "This is the Imperial Prison token. Whether they live or die—it’s up to you!"
In just a few words, Lucian Fox explained everything he had endured over the past two years.
Zara Yun, ever perceptive, instantly understood the danger at hand.
Prince Regent’s current glory was dazzling, but beneath the surface, it was as precarious as oil boiling over a raging fire.
Lucian Fox was granted the title of Prince Regent for his achievements in battle.
But it was precisely these towering accomplishments that would one day make the Emperor wary of him.
If Lucian Fox couldn’t protect himself, his fate would be far worse than before.
Lucian Fox pulled Zara Yun in front of him, gazed into her eyes, and declared, "Zara, I love you."
Zara Yun’s heart leapt uncontrollably.
Back then, Brother Qi Jun had said the very same words to her.
And now, Lucian Fox...
Zara Yun looked up at Lucian Fox. For a moment, his features overlapped with Brother Qi’s in her mind, throwing her heart into chaos.
"I know you can’t accept all this right now, and that’s fine—we have plenty of time to work through it." Lucian Fox said gently, "Peace County is my fief. From now on, you never need to worry about anything here. Do whatever you wish. This is my second gift to you."
With those words, Lucian Fox slowly released her hand, gazing at Zara Yun with tender eyes. "I have to go now."
Zara Yun felt a sudden emptiness inside and blurted out, "Weren’t you going to stay?"
Lucian Fox chuckled softly. "Keep a room for me—I’ll be back to stay, sooner or later! But today, there’s something I must do."
"What is it?" Zara Yun knew she shouldn’t ask, but the question slipped out before she could stop herself.
Lucian Fox’s eyes softened. He raised his hand and gently stroked Zara Yun’s hair, answering her question anyway: "Third Brother’s remaining followers have been causing trouble in the capital. I tracked them here, but I came to see you first, in case you got hurt. Don’t worry—nothing will happen to you. I’ve arranged for protection in secret. No one can harm you, except yourself."
After saying this, Lucian Fox affectionately pinched Zara Yun’s cheek, then strode away.