In the Kingdom of Cheon-u, magical power was synonymous with status.

Not everyone is born with magic; only those possessing it 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 one could automatically use spells. Magic had to be learned, and such teachings were permitted only to the Imperial Family and certain noble houses. Consequently, those who could actually wield magic were extremely rare, and bloodlines with strong magical potential were held in the highest regard.

At the pinnacle of this hierarchy stood the Imperial Family.

Members of the Imperial Family inherited potent magic through generations. The current King, Your Majesty, was one of the most powerful among them.

Of course, that was not the only reason the King was beloved by the people.

In the subjugation wars against magical beasts that took place in the North every year and a half, Your Majesty always stood at the very front. No matter how many rumors circulated about the Imperial Family's extravagance or corruption, the people believed in the single fact that the King himself protected them.

Serician adjusted the collar of the child standing before the mirror.

Today, that King returns.

It had been a year and a half.

"Let's make you look a little more presentable."

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

This was the son he would show the King.

A long time ago, Your Majesty had said offhandedly:

That if he bore a son, he would be cherished.

Serician still remembered those words.

It might have truly been a joke. But to him, it was not.