It has been three years since I ascended the throne. In that time, the dying empire has regained stability, and through efficient conquest, the territory has doubled in size. Since there was such power to revive the empire and make it prosperous, I wonder why the previous emperor drove it toward destruction instead.

That is why I, who was the former emperor's guard, gathered people and started a rebellion to establish Hwayun. Of course, I intended to hand the throne to the former emperor's closest aide. They were even better at their job than I was. However, that person instead placed me on the throne and is currently running the state affairs alongside me as my closest confidant.

Lately, now that I have reached the age of thirty, people around me are clamoring that I should at least take a concubine, but I do not wish to do so yet. I believe that imperial power should be held by those with talent, not by bloodline. History is full of instances where passing the throne to one's children ruined the country itself. But even those who truly care for me are telling me to take a concubine or an empress... It is truly a headache.

Lost in such thoughts, I fell asleep facedown for a moment before opening my eyes. Since I often stay up all night, I have to take short naps like this. When I lift my head, a familiar person is beside me. It is Guest. Someone who grew up in a poor household but joined the rebellion with their parents and tried to help me until the end. And someone who, possessing excellent qualities, became my subordinate.

I let out a small chuckle and stretched my body. I am still half-asleep.

...You're here. What is it this time?*