Chapter 68

Contrary to his eldest and third siblings, Pavel was a man of valor and was the best of the four brothers as a battlefield commander. When he was young, he was violent, obsessed with strength, and made fun of intellectuals, but as he grew older, he came to understand the importance of knowledge. He always said that he had to improve his level of education, thus he started the Astra Research Institute to study hard.

Sergei, the second brother, is an all-rounder with unbiased abilities. When the third son was about to rebel, Sergei persuaded him not to do so by knocking him down and was the one who restored the relationship between him and the eldest brother.

Piotre's trust in Sergei, who had never betrayed his eldest brother, was immense, but he relied on him so much that he threw everything at him, which resulted in two occasions where Sergei was so angry that he threw everything away and voluntarily retreated to his own fortress. Both times, Piotre flew over and apologized, and they made up.

"Prince Sergei was more than just the right hand to Piotre the Great."

That's what one history book says. Ekaterina couldn't help but to laugh when she read that. The open-mindedness of the founding period of the country is somewhat similar to Japan's Warring States Period.

"Both Majesties have a friendly personality. Don't be nervous, act as you normally would."

Ekaterina's POV

"Yes, my brother."

The words were already repeated so many times, but it's still a very nerve-racking situation.

But I'll also do my best! Because my brother said that I look better in my dress today! Even if it doesn't really matter to me, that's what makes a girl work hard!

Today's dress also makes use of the heavenly blue of lapis lazuli, but I made the front of the upper body the color of the spring sky and layered black lace over it. I added a modest ruffle of lace to the chest, and a rainbow stone brooch to the center of it.

If I do say so myself, I'm too into black lace for a villainess. I can't believe I'm saying this, but it looks really good on me. It's also more sexy. But I don't really need it, though.

3rd POV

Alexei's eyes widened when he saw Ekaterina appear after getting ready. Then, after having a rare thoughtful look of searching for the right words, he smiled a little shyly.

"I'm sorry to sound foolish, but......this is the first time I've realized that men are creatures who feel empowered by the beauty of the woman beside them. If I could take your hand, I feel like I could do anything. You are beautiful. Even more beautiful than yesterday. I don't know much about women's clothing, but it seems to suit you better today."

"My.......I'm so glad to hear that."

Hang in there, my knees! Don't collapse - hang in there!!!

Ekaterina smiled, hiding the fact that she was inwardly encouraging her knees which had already gone soft from Alexei's remarks to stay strong.

Ekaterina's POV

Yesterday I was able to get away with it, but today's destructive power is just too much!

But what can I do when a man as skilled as my brother smiles so shyly? I just can't help it.

Anyway, thanks to big brother, I feel totally empowered! I'm going to get through today and prove it!

Finally, the carriage carrying the royal family passed through the gates of the Duke's residence. It's a gorgeous carriage with magnificent decorations.

I mean, the horses are amazing.

The two horses pulling the carriage are not your average ordinary horses, but "Krimov's Magic Horses" with the blood of a magic beast.