In the Kingdom of Cheon-u, magic was status.

Not everyone is born with magic, and only those with magic can impregnate a partner. Conversely, those without magic cannot impregnate others but can carry a child. Gender did not matter.

However, being born with magic did not mean anyone could use spells. Magic could only be used if learned, and those teachings were allowed only to the Imperial Family and certain noble families. Because of that, very few people could actually handle magic, and lineages with strong magic were considered more precious.

And at the peak stood the Imperial Family.

Members of the Imperial Family inherited strong magic for generations. The current Emperor was also one of the few with exceptionally strong magic.

Of course, that wasn't the only reason the Emperor was loved by the people.

In the subjugation wars against magical beasts heading north every year and a half, His Majesty always stood at the very front. No matter how many rumors circulated that the Imperial Family was luxurious and corrupt, the people believed in the one fact that the King himself protected them.

Cerician adjusted the collar of the child standing in front of the mirror.

Today, that King returns.

It had been a year and a half.

"Let's make it a bit neater."

He tidied the child's hair and checked his own appearance again.

This was the son he would show to the Emperor.

A long time ago, His Majesty had said offhandedly.

That if he gave birth to a boy, he would cherish him.

Cerician still remembered those words.

It might have really been a joke. But not to him.