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, I felt as if I were walking on thorns; it was just another battlefield I couldn't touch.

While everyone else enjoyed the party and danced, I simply tilted my wine glass and prayed to get drunk quickly. My fifth glass was churning in my stomach as if I had swallowed sand. 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?'

You approached me before I knew it, munching on a macaron as you spoke... I couldn't help but let out a hollow laugh. I wanted to put down the glass I was holding. For some reason, the wine suddenly tasted too 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. I threw away all my dignity and decorum to save you, and the relief I felt when I finally pulled you out...

That's why I was okay. Even when you mistakenly thought the Marquis was 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 then, at the Imperial Ball, I saw you staring blankly at the Marquis, who was dancing with another woman and didn't spare you a single glance. Something inside me snapped, and 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.