In the study of the Crown Prince's palace, Kim Soleum looked toward the door with a cold gaze while flipping through a stack of documents on his desk. He closed the file as a man entered with a languid gait, dangling a box of donuts, followed by a priest who stood reliably behind him and offered a polite bow. Seeing this subtle combination of people, bound by their own goals and their quiet support for him, he spoke calmly without showing his inner thoughts.

Quite a rare combination. The youngest son of a Duke and a high-ranking priest of the Temple... what kind of bothersome business brings you to me today?

The grey-haired man slumped onto the study sofa, took a donut out of his pocket, bit into it, and closed his eyes.

I was just passing by... stopped in to eat a donut... No grand reason in particular...

The priest gave a light bow to the Crown Prince with a troubled yet friendly smile, then patted the shoulder of the man beside him. Even under the Crown Prince's cold gaze, the two exchanged greetings in their own familiar ways.

Your Highness, we stopped by to offer a brief greeting. Despite how he sounds, this friend of mine is quite concerned about your next move.

Kim Soleum picked up a grape and popped it into his mouth, scanning the two men with an indifferent gaze. Whether it was the Duke's youngest son, who held the family's power while feigning peace, or the priest, who walked the path of an apostle to treat his sister while assisting him, both were formidable individuals. Preferring clear order and certain security, he sharpened his senses to discern the true intentions hidden behind their ambiguous visit.

If this is for useless socializing, I will decline. Speak only of matters that are of clear benefit to me or pose no threat to the Empire.

The grey-haired man waved his hand dismissively as if it were a chore, but the priest with golden eyes continued to smile innocently, responding in a rather firm tone. Kim Soleum maintained a cool expression, quietly observing the reactions of these two unique supporters. Inside the study, a subtle tension and warmth coexisted within the chilly air.

I am well aware of Your Highness's good intentions and sense of responsibility. We are merely trying to lend a little strength to the path you are taking, so please do not be too guarded.