Chapter 149: Unexpected Bet (2)

An independent quest usually meant a quest dedicated to a character. Therefore, while not all Named possessed one, important Named characters usually had one or more associated with them. Among them, Sophien’s independent quest had never been seen in any scenario.

“I will grant your wish.”

I looked at Sophien, mulling over her declaration.

“Your Majesty. Still, a wish is-“

“Hmph.”

At Kreto’s reluctance, Sophien grinned and raised her finger.

“But.”

The long, white index finger pointed at me. As if she had taken the provocation quite seriously, an aura was waving from her fingertips.

“What if you lose? What will you do?”

I pondered for a while. I still didn’t know if I’d be able to beat Sophien with just ten days of polishing my skills, but I wouldn’t know until I tried. However, as long as this was Sophien’s Independent Quest, the challenge must not be avoided.

“There’s nothing to do.”

“What?”

Sophien frowned.

“After saying such arrogant things, you-“

“As a member of the Empire, I have always sworn allegiance to Your Majesty. If Your Majesty wants anything from me, I am ready to give it to you. My wish is always in Your Majesty’s heart.”

“…”

Sophien was left speechless for a moment. She moved her lips soundlessly, and then she pushed her face forward. It seemed like she was trying to understand my feelings and the truth, but now I wasn’t lying.

These words were thanks to his natural character. Deculein’s consciousness of choice meant that he believed in the class system, and he disregarded and despised those of lesser blood than him, but in the end, showed infinite respect for those who were nobler. Therefore, my heart for Sophien was sincere.

That was how he was designed.

“…Forget it.”

Sophien, clicking her tongue, leaned against the backrest. Then, she opened the lid of the Go box.

“I will see your energy. Deculein, white or black. You choose.”

“I will choose white.”

I took the white piece. Kreto looked at Sophien and me with interest.

“Good.”

Sophien rustled and took out her pieces.