The sound of footsteps, shouts, and successive strikes of Agnola swords could be heard. The boy sighed with relief, as if he felt assured. Reinforcements had arrived to save the crown prince, aiding the Heavenly Knights to ensure the successful completion of the search for the heir. A knight hurriedly entered the cabin, panting heavily. He quickly raised his hand to wipe a black blood stain from his cheek. 

"Your Highness, are you alright? Are you hurt?" 

The boy turned his head towards the young man who had recently gained fame for his swordsmanship at a young age and was now being praised.

"Alkin, you’re late again."

He spoke those words with an expressionless face. Although the young man was used to his master's behavior, it was still hard for him to accept his harsh words. With his usual smile, he gazed at the young crown prince.

"I'm sorry, Your Highness. By the time we gathered the troops, it was too late. Besides, the plan you devised to find the infiltrators had to be executed flawlessly. I couldn't intervene; it was the Emperor's order."

"…"

The boy listened to the young man in silence. He knew his father was strict, so it was no surprise that he prioritized the mission. The young man tilted his head slightly and noticed a little girl in the crown prince's arms.

"Oh, Your Highness, that girl…?"

"Yes, she’s not doing well. Let's return to the palace quickly. I have a special guest."

"Yes, Your Highness..."

The infiltrating demons, drenched in their black blood, were left behind in the same place. No one cared

who they were; perhaps this was a reason to prove the ruthlessness of the Carnelian family.