《My Wish Is Two Separate Beds》 Chapter 1 - The Queen’s Trouble The Queen¡¯s Trouble Click- ¡°Ah, Mion. You came?¡± ¡°Ya.¡± Julia waved towards Endimion who was opening the door to enter their bedroom. His broad shoulders look stiff. His political affairs must have been difficult today. Julia smiled hard at her handsome husband, then filled two glasses of wine. ¡°We¡¯re having wine?¡± ¡°Uh-huh, I¡¯ve wanted to drink alone with you. We are almost adults now, aren¡¯t we?¡± As she smiled lightly and extended a glass to him. Endimion, who took a seat while brushing his wet black hair up, accepted the wine. ¡°¡­True. The coming-of-age ceremony is in a few months.¡± ¡°We¡¯ve been married for 12 years! Time sure flies.¡± Julia spoke playfully and clinked their glasses. Endimion smiled faintly and toasted with her. Then, to his surprise, she emptied her glass at once while he was only taking a sip. ¡°Why are you drinking in such a hurry? Are you okay?¡± ¡°What if I have something to say?¡± Endimion brushed her grape-scented lips with his thumb. I¡¯m glad I prepared a light alcohol wine. Julia thoughtlessly opened her purple eyes, placed her glass down, and let out a soft sigh. Yes. In fact, there was a special reason she prepared wine to share with her husband in their bedroom tonight. ¡°Oh, yes. We are adults now, so we have a job to do.¡± As she carefully spoke, Endimion¡¯s blue eyes that watched her intently widened. Julia slightly blushed and laughed out of embarrassment. Actually, She was a little nervous. She had never had this kind of conversation with her husband. The two have been married for 12 years, but they got married when they were 7. They grew up together as same-aged childhood friends. These 19-year-olds are like siblings, who went through childhood, puberty, and secondary sexual characteristics development together. It was Endimion who first noticed Julia¡¯s first monthly visitor. That was the case because as they slept in one bed every night they had no choice but to be more sensitive to each other¡¯s changes. A few years ago, when they were still a boy and girl who found sleeping together natural and comfortable. Endimion stayed up with Julia, who had a stomach ache all night. In the morning they found red flower petal-like stains on the pure, white bed. After trying to cover Julia, who had frozen in embarrassment, he silently left the bedroom and immediately summoned her chief maid and exclusive maids. The boy and the girl, who viewed each other as nothing more nor less a fellow peer, became an intimate couple since that day. Unlike their childhood, they believed in, respected, and cared for each other while maintaining modest manners. For 12 years, they have been closer to each other than anyone else. A few weeks after Julia¡¯s first period, she even showed Endimion the same care he had given her when he had wet their sheets. She called on the head-servant and left, and later wrote that she would erase it from her memories forever, after giving a word of advice. -Don¡¯t drink anything before you go to bed. You¡¯ll pee in bed again. -It wasn¡¯t! -Pft. Lies! If it wasn¡¯t, what was it? -Tell me, what was it? When asking while giggling, as though she was dealing with a younger brother, his face turned red and he couldn¡¯t even make eye contact. She found the mature boy¡¯s embarrassment to be cute, so she kept prying until he got upset and spent a week in a separate bedroom. Except for that week, they have always been together for 12 years. ¡°Hey, should we go to bed first?¡± So sleeping together in one room, sharing one bed, was as natural as breathing to them. Julia grabbed Endimion¡¯s visibly agitated hand to their hand-made bed and sat down. Endimion grasped the hem of his gown, and obediently followed her and sat down. ¡®Why is he so nervous today? Oh, did he notice?¡¯ Julia sighed lightly at the sight of her stiff husband, who couldn¡¯t make eye contact with her even though this was the bed they shared every day. It may be better off this way. Giving sex education to a man of her age, when she isn¡¯t even a tutor, was a headache. ¡°Mion, listen to what I have to say.¡± ¡°I¡¯m listening.¡± Julia grabbed Endimion¡¯s hands and spoke seriously, and he turned and answered as though he had prepared his heart for this moment. His lower lip he was tightly biting swelled a little, but his cool blue eyes shone with determination. Chapter 2 ¡®Who, alright. Let¡¯s finish this once and for all.¡¯ Having finished collecting her thoughts, she laughed lightly as she brushed her long, blond hair behind her ears. ¡°Now we are not children anymore. Soon after the coming-of-age ceremony, we¡¯ll not only be a legal couple but also be a real one.¡± ¡°¡­¡­I know.¡± ¡°Right? Since you are the king of Semele and I the queen. Soon we¡¯ll have to fulfill our sacred duty as a royal couple.¡± ¡°By duty, you mean¡­¡­.¡± Endimion¡¯s voice pronouncing these short words became low. Before we knew it, his fine, black hair was dry and his sculpture-like chin was burning. He looked nervous in front of this unfamiliar situation. Oh, you know that feeling. I felt the same way yesterday! Julia calmly smiled, and she nodded vigorously. Then she asked politely. ¡°Do you like the sexy or the innocent type?¡± ¡°I¡­ you see.¡± Endimion¡¯s face burned red immediately at Julia¡¯s question. Facing her husband, Julia gently smiled. Then, she finally got to the point. ¡°Your mother said we should have a successor. So I want to pick out a pretty lady.¡± ¡°¡­.What?¡± Endimion¡¯s strong hand fell onto the bed. ¡°Isn¡¯t that stuff kind of awkward between us? So, what if I bring in a concubine? What¡¯s your type? Just tell me, I¡¯ll generously take it into account.¡± Julia felt refreshed as though she had finished her big homework, but she soon found her husband staring at her with a terrifying face. She asked him why with her eyes. Then, as if he couldn¡¯t speak, Endimion opened his mouth several times and wiped his face with his hands. ¡°¡­ Are you stupid?¡± ¡°Why? Oh, of course! The sexy type¡­¡­.¡± ¡°I do not need one.¡± Bang! The mattress bounced, and only Endimion¡¯s angry voice remained. In an instant, Julia was alone in the bedroom looking at the closed door with confused eyes. ¡°Why are you angry¡­¡­.¡± There had never been an accident during their 12 years from adolescence to becoming man and woman. When Julia found it awkward while in puberty and asked if they should sleep separately, Endimion replied that it was fine since they¡¯re a couple like an adult. Since then till now, they have comfortably slept in one bed. Julia didn¡¯t view Endimion as a man, nor did he see her as a woman. For these sibling-like childhood friends playing family to make a baby, it was awkward to just think about it! ¡®That¡¯s why I proposed, why is he like that?¡¯ After being called yesterday morning and listening to much advice and scolding, I was convinced that bringing in a concubine would be great in many ways. No matter how much I thought about it, I can¡¯t see what is wrong, Julia complained. Surprisingly, Endimion did not return to their bedroom that night. This is the first time I¡¯m sleeping alone, since the incident where I teased him for peeing in bed. Left alone, Julia fell asleep in the large, pure-white bed with a fluttering heart. Waiting to fall asleep the embarrassed red, handsome face of her husband came to mind. At the same time, her memory of the boy returning to their bed after a long week of commotion and separate bedrooms came to mind. -Kya, I can¡¯t sleep with you because you might excuse yourself on the bed again. -I said I didn¡¯t! ¡®Ah, right.¡¯ It was a wet dream. *** 3 years ago. ¡°Look at this drawing, your majesty, my queen¡± Contrary to their house-play like childhood, a full-scale sex education took place when they ascended the throne. Even though it was a young couple who were just developing their secondary sexual characteristics. If Endimion¡¯s father hadn¡¯t died suddenly, Endimion wouldn¡¯t have had a hasty ascension at the age of 16, but life is always full of surprises. ¡°It is the body of men and women. Their contrasting parts were enlarged and drawn in detail. From now on, we will tell you about these features and their functions. First¡­¡­.¡± Sex education was also one of those ¡®surprises¡¯. The two took classes twice a week, together with two doctors. ¡°¡­¡­that is all. Do you have any questions?¡± At the end of the lecture, the doctors always asked like this. Julia looked at Endimion, who was sitting next to her. But he didn¡¯t pay attention to the class and focused his attention on his desk, he was in a bad mood whenever it came to sex education. If she tried to ask him to check the parts she didn¡¯t catch, he would say, ¡®Later.¡¯ and leave as soon as the lesson is over. Chapter 3 ¡°I have none. Then let us end¡­¡± ¡°Oh, I have one.¡± Julia stopped Endimion from trying to end the class immediately. Endimion seemed surprised by her striking behavior since she was always quiet in front of others, saying she would be a great queen. Disregarding this, Julia started asking her female doctor what she didn¡¯t understand. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re new to body part changes! These are-!¡± Disappointed by the king¡¯s disapproving demeanor, the attending physician was excited to answer the questions of her model student, the queen. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s what that means!¡± After only looking at explanatory pictures and listening to the explanation, it made a lot of sense now. Julia was excited and took notes enthusiastically. On the other hand, Endimion was hesitant and only rubbed his face roughly. Julia asked why, but he didn¡¯t answer. ¡°What? Are you trying to grab my attention by preventing class from ending early?¡± ¡°No.¡± Julia, who was offended by his blunt voice, eventually looked at him. But Endimion steadfastly ignored her. The doctors, who were walking on thin ice due to the royal couple¡¯s conflict, deliberately laughed out loud to try and relieve the atmosphere. ¡°See, these body changes happen when you¡¯re sexually stimulated. For young people, like your majesty and queen, just thinking about the opposite sex will do this!¡± ¡°Kheuk!¡± Endimion suddenly coughed while drinking a glass of water. Julia, who was nodding her head, looked back in surprise. ¡°Mion, are you okay?¡± ¡°¡­¡­.Don¡¯t worry about it.¡± ¡°What? I¡¯m worried about you right now. Why do you keep talking like that?¡± It was when Julia, finally done with this absurdity, dropped her quill. The doctor who had been observing this situation intervened and shifted the conversation. ¡°Oh ho ho! The two of you are very close! These changes in the body can even happen between close couples. Your Majesty!! Has your Majesty ever experienced this?¡± A middle-aged female doctor focused on Endimion and asked in a loud voice. Endimion had just lowered the glass of water when his face hardened at the sudden question. ¡°¡­¡­.What?¡± ¡°It¡¯s a natural reaction of the male body when you think of a woman you like. When your Majesty thinks of the queen, does this reaction¡­¡­¡± Shatter! The crystal glass fell to the floor and broke. Julia, who was thoughtlessly holding a quill, the doctors, who were trying to relieve the mood, and Endimion, who jumped up from his chair, all flinched. Julia was amazed at her husband, who made a loud noise for the first time since ascending the throne. As she opened her mouth while staring at Endimion, he turned his head towards her. Naturally, their eyes met. The blue eyes she faced were full of embarrassment. However, just as Julia was about to say something, Endimion turned his head away and in a cold voice remarked. ¡°I don¡¯t.¡± ¡°Yes, Yes?¡± As if he wasn¡¯t sorry for the pitiful doctor, Endimion squeezed his fists and slowly said in a low voice. When Julia glanced at him, she could see the tips of his ears and his cheeks flushed red. He must be quite furious. ¡°I said I don¡¯t feel anything of the sort when I think of the queen.¡± The attending physicians panicked at his fierce refusal, not knowing what to do. ¡°I¡¯m deeply sorry! I, I just wanted you two to have a nice relationship! I never meant to harass your majesty!¡± The doctor, who noticed that the king was offended, tried to settle this mess. Then he turned to the quiet queen for help, instead of the king who was growling like a wild beast. ¡°I only meant that it was a very natural physical phenomenon for energetic youths. Women are also the same! Ha-, has the queen ever experienced this? While thinking of his Majesty!¡± ¡°Hmm¡­¡­ I don¡¯t think I have? Mion is like a friend. I have never felt that way towards a man before.¡± Julia responded inadvertently and tilted her head. Since she was 7 years old, her husband was more like a family and friend than a man in her eyes. This sixteen-year-old was quiet, but a little clumsy. The young queen answered honestly as she was educated to do, inadvertently turning her doctor pale. ¡°¡­.Oh, I see.¡± Julia turned her head belatedly. Mion looked down at her with a gaze she couldn¡¯t decipher and left after uttering one sentence, ¡°That¡¯s interesting. I¡¯ve felt it with a woman before.¡± Bang! In this manner, the class ended and since then, she was taught sex education separately. Rumours of the young imperial couple¡¯s bad relationships almost ignited, but fortunately it was resolved properly. This is because Julia cracked down on her doctor, and feeling guilty the doctor kept it to himself. Besides, that night, Endimion apologized, saying he was sorry for upsetting her, and Julia generously accepted his apology. They lay in bed together and spent the night as comfortably as usual. Chapter 4 -He said I don¡¯t feel it when I think of the queen. -I¡¯ve felt it with a woman. ¡®Hmmm, there was a woman that you liked. I didn¡¯t even know that.¡¯ She thought, peeking at the pretty and peaceful face of her sleeping husband. ¡®I thought he had a harsh tone for some reason. Well, anyone would be offended by that kind of misunderstanding.¡¯ Even if we are married, it was awkward to receive sex education together when we¡¯re like brother and sister. They had gotten married when they were 7 years old and now, it was the first time they were looking at each other as people of the opposite sex. Julia just treated it as any other subject to study, but she often felt like Endimion was reluctant. She thought it was because it is uncomfortable to sit with a girl during class, but it was actually because he had a different girl in his heart. Since it was sex education for couples, it had a clear purpose. ¡®Then again romance novels are filled with protagonists having skinship with the woman they like.¡¯ If you look at the aristocratic couples who have children early, some are even younger than them. It means that 16-year-olds know a lot of these matters. We are even receiving sex education, so he can¡¯t not know anything. But Endimion had never even tried to give Julia a light kiss. ¡®If he thought of me as someone of opposite sex, he would have done something already. We even sleep in the same bed like this every night.¡¯ Julia thought as she tried to substitute her husband for the male protagonist of a red-labeled novel she got by begging her maid. A kiss with Endimion, rather than making her heart beat faster, it seems awkward, I think I would laugh. Julia, who had become curious, showed Endimion the book the next day and told him to replace the heroine with herself. And so, when she saw Endimion touch her forehead with a stiff face, she was convinced. Endimion doesn¡¯t think of her as a woman. This intense memory from when she was a 16-year-old was stuck in Julia¡¯s mind, as though it was official. In the present, at the age of 19, before her coming-of-age ceremony, the duty to give birth to a successor presented itself. ¡­¡­Of course, it was Endimion¡¯s secret that the blanket was unseemly crumpled in his hand every night. *** So, the cause of this commotion goes back to the day before. To be precise, for tea time before lunch. Julia had received a call from the Grand Duchess Miladi, who wanted them to have lunch together, since last time had been so long ago. ¡°Mother-in-law? Yes, tell her that I¡¯ll meet her soon.¡± Miladi was Endimion¡¯s mother. Upon the death of the former king, she, who was the former Queen, became a grand duchess and stayed in her villa. In Semele, after the husband¡¯s death, it was a tradition that for the former Queen received the title of the grand duchess, that is passed down the royal family from generation to generation, when her son becomes king. This was to prevent the former Monarch from challenging the kingship with her royal blood bearing relationships. Fortunately, Miladi has a royal palace so there is little traffic, and she made no interference because she didn¡¯t covet power, unlike the dowagers Julia had read about in her novel. Rather, she was a pretty open-minded mother-in-law who likes playing with fair-minded servants. Twelve years ago, she accepted Julia, who arrived as though she was sold, as her daughter-in-law and treated her like an actual daughter, revealing her cool personality. Semele was a powerful country located in the middle of the continent and Julia¡¯s motherland, Amethrin, was a kingdom settled at the edge of the continent. The crown prince of a country who built a tremendous wealth through a long history, vast territory, and prosperous trade. The princess of a rural, agricultural kingdom, whose lives were built upon agricultural exports. No one could grasp just how those two countries would even match. However, when Julia was 5 years old, there was suddenly a harsh famine on the continent. No matter how much money they earn from trade, there was no country that could salvage their farming. Semele and other countries in danger were puzzled and wandered in search of the cause. Chapter 5 Strangely, however, Julia¡¯s country Amethrin was an exception. Amethrin Bay, which was so small and ordinary that it was largely neglected to be insignificant, had a bountiful harvest. Even the grains of their produce became thicker and the taste of their fruits became sweeter. Unintentionally, Amethrin¡¯s export of crops was a hit. Julia¡¯s father naively thought that he was lucky, but the joy did not last long. Several countries trying to find the cause received oracles, and rumors spread amongst them that ¡®the daughter of King Ametrin is loved by God¡¯. Thanks to this princess, only Amethrin escaped the misfortune of this cataclysmic year. This fact was also known to other countries, where they were holding onto their last straw, and an incident broke out in no time. -Marriage proposal! My daughter is only 5 years old! -What does age matter? Don¡¯t worry, if you give the princess as a wife, our king will give you generous amounts of gold, silver, treasures. -Our Majesty will take ten fold territories of Amethrin¡¯s lands! It was a complete mess with the envoys pushed in asking for Julia to be their ruler¡¯s bride. King Ametrin shouted his refusal, saying that she was a cherished daughter without her mother, but the great powers began to quarrel amongst each other over who would take the princess. Among them, many countries engaged in military actions to pressure Amethrin. Fortunately, with the trade of agricultural crops as a shield, he was able to endure for two years, but the king¡¯s troubles increased. As tensions across the continent continued to rise, the princess, who is said to be loved by God, transitioned from a troublesome subject to the source of resentment from her own people. -Dad, I¡¯ll just get married. In the end, Julia, feeling guilty for something that wasn¡¯t her fault, decided to sacrifice herself. The weak-hearted king cried and screamed, but the country would be ruined without the marriage of his young daughter. The king made a condition for the princess to choose her husband, and received an answer that no one would be dissatisfied with the decision. -I chose Semele¡¯s crown prince. -Why, why Semele? Baby, it¡¯s too far from our kingdom. Think of Tahilgrand next door! -What if I marry a weak country and Ametrin gets in a dangerous situation again? -Heuk-heuk, our daughter is too thoughtful¡­¡­¡­ Julia laughed awkwardly, patting her mourning father, she said was sorry until the day she left. ¡®It¡¯s actually because he is the youngest.¡¯ There were many adult kings trying to marry a 7-year-old princess without a conscience. Most of them were greedy middle-aged men abandoning their wives to gain the favor of God. Only Semele, the most powerful country on the continent, sent a portrait of a young royalty. 52 years old, 47 years old, 39 years old¡­¡­¡­amongst the uncles the only 7-year-old boy shined with the same age as herself. He was the opposite of Julia, who resembled a gentle puppy with round purple eyes. Endimion, the prince of Semele, resembled a black cat, with his dark black hair against the contrasting background. He looked a little bit scary, but she had already accepted him for having her age. ¡®Of course, he is handsome too.¡¯ She didn¡¯t mind physical appearance very much. However, choosing a sculpture-like little boy among the uncles with balding heads is a righteous act even a god would do. Eitherway, Julia chose Endimion. And she immediately got her wedding. Surprisingly, the same year she became the crown princess, was the year Semele got a bountiful harvest. It was really a joke of fate. Gradually, the continent escaped from the famine, and they quickly regained peace. So it became clear that Julia, Princess of Amethrin and Crown Princess of Semele, was favored by God. But at the same time, she thought she was some kind of loot. A loot that highlights Semele¡¯s greatness, not Endimion¡¯s mate. This was more so because Endimion was a highly desired bachelor of royalty and nobles since infancy. He was the crown prince of the continent¡¯s most powerful country, so it was natural. She heard that just before Julia chose Endimion, there had been engagement between him and a lady of a foreign royalty. It was called an engagement but the lady was so lovesick that it was pretty much a marriage. But this quickly ended when Julia chose Endimion. Chapter 6 Julia, who broke such a significant marriage and became the crown princess, was a shiny trophy, not a perfect wife. This was because she had the honor of being the most favored child of God, but she didn¡¯t have a powerful family to strengthen her husband. Fortunately, Endimion¡¯s father used to say that Semele is overwhelmingly strong, so it doesn¡¯t matter if his daughter-in-law¡¯s relatives were weak. He liked the quiet and innocent Julia and whenever he met a foreign king, he boasted of her until his mouth dried, saying that he had acquired the child God loves as his daughter-in-law. The same was true of Miladi, who at the time had become the Crown Queen after the first Queen¡¯s passing. She had been an ordinary concubine, but became a Queen after giving birth to Endimion. And so, Julia was not condemned for being a princess from a powerless kingdom. She had no power to give onto the wings to the crown prince, but she wasn¡¯t abused by the average mother-in-law. Rather, Miladi embraced Julia, a seven-year-old who squirmed and stole short glances at her. She praised and scolded her refreshingly and raised her like her own daughter. Thanks to her, Julia now maintains her bright and innocent personality, and grew from a pretty, happy girl into a woman. However, there was another reason for Julia, who grew up with no shortcomings, to be regarded as a trophy. It was an ambiguous situation. This reason wasn¡¯t her father-in-law, mother-in-law, nor her husband. ¡°Are you here Julia?¡± ¡°Yes, mother-in-law. How have you been?¡± Julia laughed as she entered the beautiful Secret Garden of the Grand Duchess that is full of flowers. Miladi, who was smelling the rose she had just picked, beckoned Julia and sat down at the table first. Julia nodded her head, and walked over gracefully and sat in the chair opposite to Miladi. ¡°As you can see, I¡¯m doing well. I called you over to talk cause I¡¯m bored living this well. I invited the almighty majesty too, but he said he couldn¡¯t come because he¡¯s busy. What a son! He doesn¡¯t have a speck of cuteness.¡± ¡°Ahaha.¡± Miladi teasingly laughed lightly in a soft voice. Julia lightly burst into laughter, aware of their nice in-law relationship. Even while middle-aged, Julia¡¯s mother-in-law was always pleasant. The two politely chattered about current events, while polished attendants dressed in stylish black uniforms brought out dishes and filled the table. ¡°Have a great time. My Queen, Your Majesty the Grand Duchess.¡± ¡°Come eat, I hired a new chef and he¡¯s pretty good.¡± ¡°Yes, mother.¡± Julia laughed without thinking and lifted a glass of water first. Then she saw Miladi tapping the buttocks of the young head butler who had greeted them, and almost spit out water. ¡°Cough!¡± ¡°Oh, are you okay, baby?¡± The head butler, who had been smiling deeply as at Milladi, quickly brought a handkerchief in shock. Milladi took over and handed it to Julia, and sent him back. Then she looked at Julia wiping her lips as though it was fun, and asked, ¡°Why, are you surprised?¡± ¡°Oh, no. Just a little.¡± ¡°What do you mean ¡®no¡¯, your eyes are round like a rabbit!¡± Milladi laughed and began to eat. Julia, whose pupils were shaking, followed suit. ¡°Hey, it¡¯s because you don¡¯t know, you¡¯ll understand when you¡¯re my age. I don¡¯t have a husband and I have nothing to do. I would have remarried if I were a normal lady. But since I¡¯m the former queen, I can¡¯t remarry and I can¡¯t travel. So I¡¯ve got to have some fun in life like this. I am having quite an enjoyable time, picking out boys that match my taste and living with them like a flower garden.¡± ¡°Oh, this was your taste.¡± Julia smiled awkwardly, hiding her shaky eyes. No wonder, the young servants who were serving were all muscular. Their faces were fine, but their lines were well-defined and they boosted thick beards that shined as if they had applied butter. Come to think of it, she heard that the competition was always fierce when the dutchess picked her servants. Many coveted the position for, if selected, they would receive plenty of adoration from the Grand Duchess. There are a lot of volunteers and, since last year, it is said that beauty was also included in the selection criteria¡­ Chapter 7 ¡®Respect her taste, respect her taste!¡¯ Julia sliced her tender steak until it was tattered. Try to forget the scene where the mother-in-law patted the muscular guy¡¯s ass like a cute puppy! Fortunately, Miladi did not express any more burdensome affections on the attendants, and the conversation continued smoothly. A delicious lunch ended in an hour, followed by tea and desserts. ¡°Hey, so aren¡¯t you pregnant?¡± Julia was surprised by the sudden question that came out of nowhere. With a ting, a silver fork fell loudly on her plate; Miladi burst into laughter as though it was cute. ¡°Wha, what are you talking about?¡± Julia¡¯s face turned completely red. She had no idea how to answer this bold a question, she had never even thought of. ¡°What do you mean what? It¡¯s been 12 years since you¡¯ve shared a bed; I asked because I thought it¡¯s time to hear the news.¡± Miladi¡¯s sharp gaze turned to Julia¡¯s belly. Julia quickly covered her flat belly with her left hand, waved her other hand. ¡°Mo- mother. That¡¯s, we haven¡¯t, I mean¡­¡± ¡°Tisk, is he an eunuch?¡± ¡°What?!¡± Julia opened her mouth at her harsh words. Miladi shrugged her shoulder while sipping her black tea, and said, ¡°You two are adults now. The coming-of-age ceremony is in a few months. The heir of the royal couple is always an important concern.¡± Her mother-in-law, who had always been comfortable, spoke some serious words. Julia became dumbfounded like a deer in headlights and just blinked her innocent eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not condemning you. I came as a Baron¡¯s daughter and became the queen, would I nitpick such things? It just means that there must be a child, whether it¡¯s a daughter or a son.¡± ¡°Ah.¡± ¡°Look at me. Even with my poor status I had a son, and now the rest of my life is guaranteed like this. And I can live with hot men to my heart¡¯s content.¡± Miladi winked at the servant pulling the trolley of their last dessert from a distance. She followed her motions and inadvertently turned her head. Miladi was sending a charming smile to a servant who winked at her in return. Shocked, Julia corrected her posture. ¡°You may have the honor of being God¡¯s favorite child, but that doesn¡¯t guarantee a comfortable old age. Father-in-law, your father, announced that he will hand over the throne to his son. If Endimion dies first, you can¡¯t go back to Amethrin. Do you understand what I mean?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Upon hearing this, Julia thought she may have lived too easy of a life. I don¡¯t know about my younger years, but this was a problem that we should have made plans for at the age of 16, when Endimion took the throne. At least, if not Endimion, she should have done so. Miladi, who knew how her innocent daughter-in-law would act, folded her arms and set down her empty cup. Then, crossing her legs, she continued giving advice in a friendly voice. ¡°I don¡¯t know exactly but-. Endimion and you have been in a relationship for 3 years, and it¡¯s an important problem when a young couple doesn¡¯t have any children.¡± ¡°That¡­¡­¡± Julia puffed her mouth with a sorry expression. Why in the world does her mother-in-law think she and Mion would have slept together? And that is for 3 years? How do you think the couple, who have been together since they were 7-years-old, would have developed such an affectionate relationship as soon as they ascended to the throne?! ¡®That doesn¡¯t mean I can say that we have never slept together.¡¯ We haven¡¯t even kissed. However, it was too embarrassing for her to tell her mother-in-law about the progress of her skinship with her son. No matter how friendly their mother and daughter relationship is. In the end Julia could only listen as Miladi poured advice and wishes upon her. ¡°Even though she¡¯s not a legal adult, aren¡¯t 16 year-olds treated as adults? There are many aristocrats who marry and have children at that age. Semele is peaceful, but everyone is eager to keep their place, so it¡¯s better to quickly make an heir.¡± This was quite different from Ametrin¡¯s culture of marrying at the age of 18. Most of Semele¡¯s high-ranking aristocrats married at the age of 16 and had children before the age of 20. Then again, Semele people mature faster than the Ametrin, so it may have been natural. Legal adulthood at the age of 20 was only a fact. Chapter 8 In that respect, Julia and Endimion, who had married at the early age of 7 and yet had no children at 19, were an unusual case. ¡°Well, You two are still young, so it¡¯s too early to worry. You¡¯re going to have your coming-of-age ceremony now, so I¡¯m telling you to be vigilant.¡± ¡°Yes¡­¡­ Thank you, mother.¡± She wasn¡¯t condemning her to give birth to a successor, but giving advice because she thought of her daughter-in-law, who had nowhere to go, didn¡¯t have any greed or ambitions. Julia bowed her head with heartfelt gratitude. Miladi pulled up her chair to sit and whispered, as though she understood everything. ¡°If you don¡¯t get pregnant even after doing it continuously. Consider whether Endimion is actually an eunuch.¡± ¡°Kyah, mother!¡± No, where did she learn such shameless words! Miladi was the one talking, but Julia screamed and closed her mouth with her hands. Miladi, who had deliberately teased Julia for her cute reactions, burst into laughter while playfully hitting Julia. ¡°Ahue, it was a joke. His eyes are burning! I¡¯m on the verge of dying from getting goosebumps when I see him like that.¡± ¡°What? Burn¡­¡­ing?¡± Julia tilted her head while touching her hot cheeks. Endimion¡¯s eyes were famous for being cold as a glacier. They were a little better to Julia after being together for a long time, but they were blunt to even his family, Miladi and Iris. That Mion¡¯s eyes to be burning. Was she being ironic? ¡°Hmm, anyway, it is if you still don¡¯t get a child. Think about bringing in a concubine.¡± ¡°A concubine¡­?¡± It seems like I keep absentmindedly repeating everything she says today. But they were really absurd words, so I couldn¡¯t help it. Concubine? It was the most shocking word I¡¯ve heard today. Miladi shook her hands and quickly added as though trying to prevent any misunderstandings, ¡°I was also a concubine. Don¡¯t take it personally, it is for producing an heir. Of course, it¡¯s best to have the heir yourself, but if it doesn¡¯t happen, it can¡¯t be helped. Not all concubines are jealous of the queen, so you just have to choose well. A lady, like me, who isn¡¯t greedy. I have never been jealous of the former queen.¡± Well, what if the opposite happens? Julia vaguely raised the corners of her mouth, and smiled. Miladi and the former queen had a friendly relationship. It was entirely thanks to Miladi, who was not greedy for power. Nevertheless, I was told that the former queen still harbored a heavy heart. Although the cool and free-spirited Miladi didn¡¯t seem to know yet. ¡°Do you understand what I am saying?¡± Still, Julia nodded her head. A baby and concubines, it was a little embarrassing but it was advice that would build her future. She planned on seriously thinking about the heir issues before her coming-of-age ceremony. Thinking this Julia had her final conversation with Miladi. ¡°But, you two still seem to be like newlyweds. Doesn¡¯t Endimion sleep with you every night no matter how late his duty¡¯s end? Both of you have great stamina.¡± ¡°Mother!¡± ¡°Hohoho! It¡¯s a joke, a joke.¡± *** ¡°Ha, my gosh mother.¡± Julia shook her head as she walked back with the delicious snacks Miladi had given to her. Seeing my maid, who carried the basket in my stead, asking me if I wanted to get some air before heading back, my face must be really red. ¡°Yes, it would be better to go back through the refreshing garden.¡± ¡°Yes, my queen.¡± The Grand Duongbi Palace was made to Miladi¡¯s taste and had many open gardens. Julia stepped over to the side with plenty of shade and a large fountain. ¡®A baby¡­.¡¯ Julia contemplated this strange word. She received sex education, read romance novels, and met and interacted with nobles at social parties, so she wasn¡¯t ignorant of sex. But she had never thought of actually applying it to her situation. Besides, Endimion is a ¡®husband¡¯, and I have never seen him as a ¡®man¡¯! But after hearing her mother-in-law telling her straightforwardly about pregnancy, she was quite worried. ¡®What do I do? One can¡¯t sleep with someone they don¡¯t like, right?¡¯ It seems she can¡¯t have a child, she can¡¯t think of having such a relationship with Endimion. He is like a friend, family, a brother, and sometimes even like a biological brother. Chapter 9 According to the sex education she recieved, a woman can have a painful experience when sleeping with a man she does not want. ¡®Besides, Endimion doesn¡¯t see me as a woman either.¡¯ -I never felt it while thinking of the queen. It happened three years ago, but Endimion definitely said that. Julia played with her fingers with a sulking face. ¡®I was disappointed then for some reason, no! I just wanted to know out of curiosity.¡¯ She had made a light personal investigation rather than a full-fledged investigation. However, since Endimion hasn¡¯t gone out with anyone else it seems to be an unrequited love. But it¡¯s definitive that he doesn¡¯t see her as a woman. Otherwise, how could he sleep with her every night, at such vigorous age, without laying a finger on her? Julia certainly liked Endimion. He is her closest, most comfortable and reliable person. But she wasn¡¯t sure if that was love towards the opposite sex. ¡®Normally isn¡¯t love between men and women a tingling sensation where your heart trembles?¡¯ Currently, Endimion was her only family, a relationship more intimate and precious than with her own father. ¡°Ah, my head hurts.¡± I don¡¯t want to sleep with Endimion, but, as Miladi said, I don¡¯t want to have it tough when I¡¯m old. ¡®Can¡¯t I just feed Mion nutritious foods?¡¯ Mion can just live long and die after I pass. Julia believed that Endimion wasn¡¯t someone who would break their marriage because they didn¡¯t have any children. Julia, who had been laughing at this idea, was startled out of her thoughts by someone running and wrapping their arms around her legs. ¡°Queen-nim!¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.Ed?¡± A little brown head rubbed against her and said his greeting in a tongue-tied voice. Julia quickly lifted the child up upon hearing this familiar voice. The child grinned and clung to her neck. ¡°I greet my Queen-nim.¡± A young woman with black hair approached Julia while she was smiling at Ed. It was Endimion¡¯s half sister, Iris. She stood nearby, readily watching them. ¡°Oh, Duchess Hyde.¡± Specifically, not Miladi¡¯s but the former Queen¡¯s daughter. Iris Hyde greeted her with a blunt face. Julia also answered with her eyes. An awkward atmosphere quickly formed. Iris¡¯ face was similar to Endimion, even though they had different mothers. So Julia wanted to be friends with her, but the atmosphere was awkward since their first meeting. When Julia was 7 and Iris was 12, Iris had deliberately tried to avoid her since the beginning. ¡°You must be here to see mother.¡± ¡°Yes, as it¡¯s been a long time since the Great Queen asked me to join her for dinner.¡± Miladi seems to be pretty bored these days. Lunch with daughter-in-law and dinner with her stepdaughter. Julia¡¯s mother-in-law was very interested in her stepdaughter, but the two still had an uncomfortable relationship because Iris had always been shy. Compared to when we lived together in the royal palace, the two developed a closer relationship after Iris got married and left the palace. ¡°Ed, you¡¯re giving the Queen a hard time. Come down now.¡± ¡°Ye, yes.¡± The 5 year-old boy, Ed, climbed down from Julia¡¯s arms with a sullen look on his face. Julia, who liked his warm, soft touch, rubbed the disappointed child¡¯s head. Iris, who was watching this without a word, said, ¡°I have something to tell you.¡± ¡°Yes?¡± She sounded distant and polite, as though engaging with a stranger. Julia flinched and looked into Iris¡¯ stoic gaze. Then Iris seemed to take a deep breath, and soon recited her words as though she had memorized them. ¡°My husband is having a hard time keeping his majesty¡¯s unsavory crowds in check. You only need to make one successor, how long do you plan on being noble? Do you not have the Queen¡¯s duty if you have God¡¯s favor?¡± This was the one. The reason Julia thought of herself was a trophy. ¡®I thought it was getting quiet, it¡¯s happening again.¡¯ Julia slowly narrowed her eyes, it was about childbearing again. Iris had been cold, like this, since childhood. Even if it seemed like they had gotten a little closer at times, strangely, she became cold like a different person in a few days. Just as if she didn¡¯t want to get close to Julia. Chapter 10 She not only drew a line by not acknowledging her as a family member, she often argued with the line ¡°if you have God¡¯s favor¡­¡±. Although she is arrogant, shy, she doesn¡¯t hold a bad heart; I don¡¯t know why she is always like this. The former King and Miladi scolded her, but she did not get better. Thanks to this, Julia always felt like a stranger even as she was respected in Semele and got close to Endimion. An expensive trophy covered in a wrapper called God¡¯s favor. ¡®And to call them an unsavory crowd. Is an opposition rising up again? I didn¡¯t hear anything like that.¡¯ At the beginning of the ascension, there was a group who had an issue with Endimion¡¯s bloodline. But it quickly calmed down, and I didn¡¯t know it had become a problem again after three years. Mion hadn¡¯t said anything about this at all. ¡®Oh, is this why mother suddenly brought up children and concubines?¡¯ Although Miladi said it lightly, it actually turned out to be a serious matter. Endimion¡¯s reign has been peaceful, and no one notified me of it being otherwise. Most importantly I have been pushed out of politics since I am a foreigner here. Julia¡¯s eyebrows gathered together as her thoughts became more complicated. Then, I was able to see Iris making a strange face. ¡®Ha.¡¯ Iris¡¯ unique blunt and cold face made it seem like she was openly laughing at the country¡¯s Queen. Julia gave her a firm look. She may be mild-tempered, but she wasn¡¯t airheaded enough to be insulted in front of her eyes. ¡°I always appreciate the Duke of Hyde¡¯s hard work. But I think the Duchess worrying about my husband and I¡¯s family plans is beyond your standing¡± It was a counterattack against Iris, who never recognized Julia as family. She singled out Iris¡¯ position as no longer being a princess, but an outsider. ¡°¡­¡­ ¡± ¡°As you said, I¡¯m always being favored. This matter is not for the duchess, but for God to work on.¡± I stroked Ed¡¯s head, having spoken elegantly, as the child laughed knowing nothing. Iris¡¯ eyelashes trembled. Instead of feeling refreshed, Julia felt she was being childish. I wanted to get along with everyone. Moreover, it wasn¡¯t comfortable for her to be on bad terms with Endimion¡¯s sister, who looked so much like him. Having stared at Iris, who was silent for a moment, she tried to reach out for reconciliation first. ¡°Actually.¡± Out of nowhere, Iris lowered her eyes and started speaking. Julia flinched, not knowing what to say to her unexpected words. Iris bit her lips and slowly spoke out, ¡°My friend has been in love with his majesty since she was a kid. She was lovesick and was able to get engaged to him because the former King found her pretty. But everything went up into smoke because the Queen chose his majesty.¡± Julia was embarrassed by the truth being uncovered after 12 years, and looked at Iris with some wariness. The lady that Endimion almost got married to was Iris¡¯ friend. That¡¯s why she pushed me away since our first meeting. ¡°Then that lady was¡­¡± ¡°¡­yes. If my friend had become the crown princess, there would never have been a crowd who dared to hold unsavory hearts towards his majesty.¡° This is true as the lady is a high-ranking aristocrat. The daughter of a family much stronger than Julia¡¯s, princess of a rural kingdom, who would be helpful to Endimion. Speechless, Julia raised her chin like a Queen. ¡°It was his majesty who proposed first, not I.¡± ¡°You speak the truth. However, even though the royal authority is strong, if our strong bloodline is disrupted it will adversely affect our dignity. Shouldn¡¯t the queen empower his majesty by bearing a successor as soon as possible?¡± ¡°Duchess, these matters are none of your concern.¡± It is true that as much as Semele is a great power, they place great importance on the royal bloodline. However, this is too much criticism to hear from not even my mother-in-law, but my sister-in-law. Finally, the gentle Julia showed a noticeably unpleasant appearance. Iris desperately avoided eye contact, as though not wanting to look into her eyes, and spoke as though reading from a script, ¡°It¡¯s been at least 3 years since the two of you have shared a bed. How could there not be any news? I think it¡¯s a serious problem.¡± Chapter 11 No, why does everyone think that Mion and I slept together?! I was dumbfounded and irked. At this point, Julia even thought it was wrong of her to not be involved with Endimion. ¡°It may be impossible for at least one of you. I¡¯d advise seeing to the introduction of a concubine before it¡¯s too late.¡± ¡°Apologize Duchess Hyde. Those words are rude to both his majesty and me.¡± My sister-in-law¡¯s bizarre words finally made me pop a vein on my forehead. You¡¯ve said unspeakable words no one would dare say, but why are you avoiding my eyes? In this cold atmosphere, the little boy hid behind his mother, anxiously observing the unfolding situation. At that time, Miladi, who could be seen with rows of muscular servants from a far, cheerfully shouted out towards Iris, ¡°¡­¡­I apologize if you¡¯ve felt uncomfortable. But please think seriously about taking in concubines.¡± Iris, who gave a smile that looked to be intended for her stepmother, sent her son ahead then bowed her head. Julia was dumbfounded and tried to ask again, but she couldn¡¯t fight when Miladi was approaching. She stared at Iris with an unpleasant look, vowing to send a letter to the Duke of Hyde asking for an apology. ¡°There are conservatives who don¡¯t like Your Highness and the former Queen¡¯s blood. I am talking of succession as those outside the royal family can¡¯t speak of it.¡± ¡°Iris Hyde, stop it. This doesn¡¯t concern you, by his majesty and me¡­!¡± Surprisingly, however, the next moment, Iris bent down and gave a deep bow. It was too much courtesy for her, a current Duchess and royal, to do, especially coming from someone who had turned a blind eye to Julia in the beginning. While Julia was surprised, Iris spoke in a low voice. ¡°¡­my friend still hasn¡¯t forgotten his majesty. She even attempted suicide when her father tried to marry her off, saying she couldn¡¯t do this anymore. If you can¡¯t have a successor, please show mercy to her.¡± Then she walked to Miladi¡¯s house with a clouded face. ¡®What?¡¯ The confused Julia turned away, but Iris never turned around and went to the palace with Miladi. Only Miladi, who had missed the scene while trying to soothe Ed, waved her hand to signal that they would meet again later. ¡°She still likes Mion?¡± Julia, who was left alone, had a blank head. Are you saying that she couldn¡¯t forget her childhood feelings and even attempted to kill herself? ¡®This is serious.¡¯ Julia, who hurried back to the palace, was lost in thought. Iris was very rude, but in the end, it was no different from Miladi¡¯s advice. It left her heartbroken. Furthermore, when I sent an official request of apology to the Duke of Hyde, I found out that what Iris had said was true. Although officially the reasons were different, a few months ago a lady from a foreign country was so sick that she had to stay in. And the conservatives are complaining that their worries aren¡¯t being taken seriously. Unfortunately, both his mother, the late baroness, and his wife, the princess of a rural kingdom, were becoming Endimion¡¯s perfect faults. It was really time to have a successor. But to do that, one needs to get pregnant right away¡­. ¡®Let¡¯s bring in a concubine.¡¯ Julia made up her mind. In fact, she had thought of just closing her eyes and asking Endimion about getting a baby. It wasn¡¯t my cup of tea, but it was better than giving my husband to some other woman I didn¡¯t know. But the fact that Endimion knew everything and hid it all from her, made her less confident. ¡°Maybe Mion doesn¡¯t want to have a baby with me.¡± Otherwise, why didn¡¯t he tell me? He just needs to say ¡®this is the situation, so we have to sleep together¡¯. In addition, I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Iris¡¯s words. I thought a concubine with a powerful family would serve him better than one with the favor of God. As Miladi said, if you choose a concubine with a good personality and not greedy for power, you will be guaranteed your retirement. ¡®¡­even if it isn¡¯t that lady.¡¯ Julia, who sent the news of having something to say to Endimion, grumbled in her bath. Chapter 12 She was thinking of picking a nice and pretty concubine that matched Endimion¡¯s taste as much as possible. Somehow, she didn¡¯t feel good when she remembered the princess who holds a one-sided love for Endimion. He was definitely the top bachelor by merit and purity. ¡®Oh, I don¡¯t know.¡¯ I may be gentle but I¡¯m not timid. However, I¡¯m frustrated with myself having to be passive because of my weaknesses, my background, and¡­ she mumbled with a glum face, Anyway. ¡°Why does everyone think Mion and I have slept together?¡± I don¡¯t know where such a rumor originated. We¡¯ve really just slept holding hands for 12 years; I can¡¯t believe everyone thinks we have that kind of relationship! ¡°That¡¯s unfair! How mortifying!¡± Also, I am uncomfortable thinking of the lady, who has had a crush on Endimion. I was a little annoyed for some reason. Julia pounded on her wry pillow until her husband came to their bedroom. Then, when she had collected her emotions, she held a conversation with her husband who had arrived late into the night. ¡°¡­.Are you stupid?¡± ¡°Why? Ah, of course it¡¯s the sexy type¡­¡± ¡°I don¡¯t need one.¡± Bang! This was the royal couple¡¯s first fight in their 12 years together, and the reason the king stayed out overnight. ¡°Did you have a good night¡¯s res¡­ Your Majesty? Your eyes are bloodshot. Did something happen?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t mind it.¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Duke Lionel Hyde, quickly shut his mouth. Endimion spewed out a black aura as he smacked his forehead. Lionel, who had brought a bunch of documents in need of approval, eyed his brother-in-law¡¯s gloomy face and carefully piled them on his desk. ¡°This is the capital¡¯s reorganization plan and budget. I thought it would be good to take this opportunity to overhaul the entire border defense system, so I drafted it here. Please review it. In addition, given the ministers¡¯ opinion, what do you think of holding a royal hunting contest to celebrate Your Majesty and the Queen¡¯s coming-of-age ceremony¡­¡± ¡°Leave it and see yourself out.¡± ¡°yess¡­.¡± The mountainous built of Duke Lionel answered the ill-tempered voice, while rolling his eyes in surprise. He couldn¡¯t concentrate during the meeting yesterday after receiving a letter from the Queen. Why is he so cold this morning? ¡®Maybe I should come back after lunch.¡¯ Lionel, who has been the king¡¯s advisor for 7 years and has also been in a 7 year marriage himself, carefully retreated from his king¡¯s sight. The brother-in-law, who has the same personality as his sister, is famous for being cold and blunt to everyone. He was especially soft only with the Queen, who he had married at a young age. He had left without even looking back yesterday, but seeing the dark clouds surrounding him today it seems like the royal couple had a fight. ¡®It¡¯s best not to stand out at times like this.¡¯ He was humming with the thought of getting home to have lunch with Iris for once, when- ¡°Duke Hyde.¡± ¡°Yes, Your Majesty!¡± Lionel turned back quickly, upon hearing a cold voice. Before he knew it, Endimion had straightened his waist and was holding a letter. ¡°This is an official apology sent to the Queen in the name of Duchess Hyde. I didn¡¯t open it because it will go to the Queen¡¯s palace; do you know anything about this letter?¡± The brazen face of a man stealing the Queen¡¯s private letters without shame. Lionel looked tired of his brother-in-law¡¯s shamelessness for a moment, but understood what he had said belatedly and jumped. ¡°Y, you mean an official apology? My wife¡¯s?¡± ¡°Are you saying that the Duke dares to not know what wrong his Duchess has committed against the Queen?¡± No, how would I know?! It¡¯s been a week since I¡¯ve last gone home because of overtime! Lionel was so frustrated by being wronged like this, that he was speechless. However, his brother-in-law¡¯s piercing eyes were filled with cold anger. It doesn¡¯t look like he¡¯ll let her off, even if she is his older sister. ¡°I, I beg your pardon, Your Highness! I will ask my wife, no, I¡¯ll make her personally go to apologise to the queen!¡± Endimion glared coldly at his bearish brother-in-law. She¡¯s been married for seven years and has a child, but she still seems to be troubled like a princess. ¡®What a bad elder sister.¡¯ Chapter 13 In fact, Endimion and Iris are step siblings, but they got along well enough. At the same time, both their personalities were equally blunt, so there was not much affection between them. But there was only one moment when these sibling¡¯s would have a battle of nerves; that is when Iris picked a fight with Julia. When I first found out, I was about to confront Duke Hyde, but Julia asked to overlook it so I pretended not to know about it. Fortunately, it didn¡¯t seem like Julia was just taking it without any actions. However, for there to be official letters being exchanged between them, Iris must have provoked her again. ¡°No, you don¡¯t need to.¡± ¡°Tha, thank you! I won¡¯t let this happen again¡­¡± ¡°And since the duke is so faithful to his family, I¡¯m sure he will take his wife¡¯s punishment with bliss. Work overtime for the next month.¡± ¡°I beg your pardon?!¡± ¡°Go home and report to the Duchess, then come back right away.¡± Endimion beckoned his aides with a cool face. Soon, they dragged Lionel out, who had become pale. ¡°Oh, oh my God, you can¡¯t do this! I¡¯m going to die! Your Majesty!¡± Only when the Duke¡¯s cries rang in the hallway did he feel a bit better. Endimion was indeed a relentless King for everyone other than Julia. ¡°Return this to the Queen¡¯s palace as though nothing happened¡± ¡°Yes, Your Majesty.¡± Endimion, who had sent the Duchess¡¯ letter with a servant, stood up rubbing his temples. The cold Iris has a good relationship with the bearish Duke Hyde, so she¡¯ll be quite upset when she finds out about this ordeal. ¡®How dare she disturb the queen.¡¯ Endimion laughed at the sight of Iris glaring at him in his mind. Then he opened an inner door which was connected to the office. Endimion frowned as he entered a secret room dedicated to the King that even his brother-in-law, Duke Hyde, did not know. When we last met, I gave her a warning, but she couldn¡¯t be quiet for long. She shares my bloodline, but I don¡¯t know what she¡¯s up to. I thought it was just jealousy when she hated Julia since their first meeting, but how many years has it been? However, when the pictures in the room caught my eye, all my irritations melted away. Endimion smiled lightly and sat in a leather armchair in the middle of the room. The chair, which rotates smoothly in place, was specially commissioned by Endimion. ¡°Hi.¡± Endimion mumbled as he slowly looked to the far left. There were the 7 year-old Julia, 8 year-old Julia, 9 year-old Julia¡­ all the way up to the 18 year-old Julia hanging on the wall. It was the Julia collection Endimion had made by secretly making copies of the portraits painted in each of her birthdays. I secretly hired a separate royal painter for this because if she knew of this she may look at me strangely. It was a hobby that even he himself felt was a little obsessive, but Endimion ignored that feeling. What should I do? She¡¯s so pretty that I want to have her portraits. The portraits of the King and Queen are for future generations, so they cannot be viewed freely even by the concerned parties. His Queen, who is the most noble and elegant figure in Semele, caught the eyes of everyone at every occasion. She wasn¡¯t fancy, but her fairy-like delicate beauty has a charm that ignites attraction. She¡¯s good by nature, so she¡¯s kind to everyone. Endimion felt sick enough to die every time Julia gave her bright smiles to another man. If I could, I¡¯d like to keep her in my embrace forever. Though it seems like she didn¡¯t even dream of her husband thinking this way. Julia had been a cute girl with short hair and a hairband when she just got married. But with every year that passed, her hair grew longer and her face lost its baby fat. Her face became slim along with her shoulders. Her big, purple eyes twinkled lively, and her graceful nose and rose petal-like lips were so lovely. Her long, slender legs and straight waist, weren¡¯t weak like a deer¡¯s, but had a Queenly dignity. And those smooth, rich curves¡­ ¡°I¡¯m like a pervert.¡± Endimion, whose gaze moved towards last year¡¯s portrait turned dark before he knew it, burst into a vain laugh and shook his head. Chapter 14 It¡¯s not ¡®like¡¯; I¡¯m really a pervert. I¡¯m not a normal husband, desiring his wife through a portrait when she clearly exists in person. ¡®Anyways, I think she¡¯s getting prettier and prettier.¡¯ The pink dress that she wore to our last social party was so pretty that my head was in a daze. Everyone around us seemed to think the same thing, seeing that I had such a hard time shielding Julia from the gaze of wolves who held similar thoughts. Not knowing this, Endimion stayed up all night because she smiled out of joy when he complimented her, saying that the dress looked good on her. I kept thinking of that bright face, I had to pinch my thighs to hold back my urge to reach out towards my sleeping wife. ¡®A concubine?¡¯ Endimion suddenly frowned as he thought of his wife, who was so lovely that he couldn¡¯t even touch her. The feeling of floating on the clouds cooled down in an instant. ¡®¡­.why am I holding back?¡¯ It¡¯s been a long time since the girl I had thought of as a friend started to feel like a woman. It¡¯s hard to hide it, that I¡¯ve been tempted to reveal it several times. A husband¡¯s love for his wife is nothing to hide. But soon after taking the throne, I overheard what Julia said and changed my mind. ¨C Do you really feel that way towards someone you really love? It was when she had a tea party in the garden with her close friends. Endimion, who was about to stop by to see her face, overheard Julia¡¯s curious voice. ¨C Of course! You get embarrassed by just making eye contact, it gets hot and you feel butterflies in your stomach when you hold hands¡­ oh my, doesn¡¯t the queen experience this with his majesty? ¨C What? Oh, yes! Of course. It was amazing because it was so similar to my experience. The ladies exclaimed with joy without noticing anything. However, Endimion, who knew Julia better than anyone else, noticed. Julia, his wife and first love, did not see him as a man. ¡®I¡¯m sure she thinks of me as family.¡¯ I was burning inside, but it was okay. Julia and I can never break up anyway. I¡¯ve never considered letting her go in the first place. If I confessed now she¡¯d feel uncomfortable, so I was going to wait for Julia to become more mature. That will probably be when we have the coming-of-age ceremony. Endimion decided to end his one-sided love by naturally revealing his feelings and then, they¡¯d become a stronger couple. But to take in a concubine, I never thought she¡¯d come to such a wild conclusion! ¡°The conservatives, who are always talking about bloodline, were talking about preparing an heir. Did she hear about it?¡± I told them to make sure that it didn¡¯t reach the Queen¡¯s ears. Endimion gritted his teeth. It was driving me crazy. I¡¯m just swallowing my saliva with the woman I like next to me; I can¡¯t believe she¡¯s telling me to do it with another woman! I think I¡¯m going crazy just seeing another guy look at Julia. Does she really not have a sliver of love for me? I really might end up meeting another strange woman if I keep tiptoeing around her. Julia, who is surprisingly stubborn for all her innocence, might end up picking a concubine behind my back. ¡®I can¡¯t let this be¡¯ In the end, Endimion decided to throw away Julia¡¯s grace period immediately and left the secret room. He tried to hasten his steps to get to the queen¡¯s palace. That was when Endimion hit a document on the desk and it fell to the ground. It was a proposal to hold a hunting contest to commemorate the coming-of-age ceremony of the King and his wife. Endimion, who was about to skim it without much thought, stopped when an idea crossed his mind at that moment. ¡°A hunting contest¡­¡± The royal hunting contest was a kind of meeting to develop networks. In fact, the most famous of them is the love business of young aristocrats. There were couples who enjoyed secret meetings in the dense, wide forest, and there were quite a few people who got married after their first encounter there. Chapter 15 Endimion¡¯s sister Iris also met with Duke Hyde for the first time there. The 16-year-old ice, cold princess, made a bombshell announcement, saying she had chosen a husband herself. The memory of their late father¡¯s laying down in shock for an entire day was still vivid. ¡°Hmm¡­.¡± Ground paradise, where a soft and amorous atmosphere hid behind middle-aged and old aristocrats strengthening their political friendship. While the latter would be a dreadful matter for him, Endimion¡¯s intellectual mind went busy. Before long, one corner of Endimion¡¯s mouth rose softly. ¡°This is it.¡± It was a relaxed smile, with all his troubles and worries having disappeared in a breath. *** ¡°I¡¯m glad to see you, Tremburn.¡± ¡°It¡¯s an insurmountable honor to meet you, my Queen!¡± The promising knight, Count Tremburn, was the captain of the guards for the upcoming royal hunting competition. Julia reached out one hand towards him, who wore a white uniform. It was when Sir Tremburn, who was moved by her actions, stepped ahead for the honor of kissing the Queen¡¯s hand with a red face, that- Thump! ¡®Eu-uht!¡¯ The knight, who suddenly had his shoulder pushed, managed to balance himself. And at the same time, a soft pull drew Julia back. ¡°Who¡­!¡± Julia looked up in surprise at the warm temperature matching her¡¯s. Endimion, whose firm arm hugged her waist from behind, was staring coldly at the knight. ¡°Who dares to kiss my Queen?¡± ¡°I greet Your Majesty, the King!¡± Knight Tremburn stepped back and hurriedly knelt on one leg to show proper etiquette. After confirming that it was her husband, Julia looked forward with reassurance, and gave quick glances at his arm. ¡°You¡¯re being too polite. With this etiquette, wouldn¡¯t placing your forehead against her hand be enough?¡± ¡°I¡­Yes! This person was imprudent. Forgive me, my Queen!¡± The knight quickly apologized. But Endimion was still watching him with sharp eyes. Julia smiled softly, thinking it wasn¡¯t a big deal. ¡°It¡¯s all right, it wasn¡¯t unpleasant. Please take care of me today.¡± And she took a step forward and reached out her hand once more. Knight Tremburn rose eyeing the King¡¯s visage, and held her fingertips slightly and leaned his forehead towards her hand to show respect. But even before this act was over, Endimion hugged Julia¡¯s waist back again and said, ¡°Did you wear what I sent you, my Queen?¡± Why are you asking that now? In response to Endimion¡¯s unexpected actions, Julia stopped and replied readily. ¡°Oh¡­ Of course.¡± Trembrun, stuck between a married couple¡¯s conversation, faltered and awkwardly stepped back. Endimion asked again, without batting an eyelash towards this movement. ¡°What is it? Cream color?¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s black. The one you gave me as a birthday present last year.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t really remember how it looked.¡± ¡°I¡¯m wearing it underneath, so I¡¯ll show you later.¡± Julia was casually chatting with Endimion, when the knight coughed to gather attention to say, ¡°Th, then this person will take his leave.¡± Endimion nodded as if he had been waiting. ¡°My Queen and I will be there in 5 minutes, so get ready.¡± The knight, who was tense from his cold eyes and voice, greeted them and disappeared. Knight Tremburn, who ran without looking back, was noticeably flustered while organizing the ranks of cavalry and knights. That was when Julia, who belatedly noticed, blushed and hit the arm wrapped around her waist. ¡°Oh, my God! He seems to have misunderstood our conversation!¡± ¡°What? It was a very good conversation about a hunting suit.¡± ¡°Mion!¡± This story, that only the two of them knew, was enough to cause a peculiar misunderstanding. Julia looked back and forth countless times, seeing her husband¡¯s calm-face as if nothing had happened. Well, the one who thinks of it strangely is the one with a dirty mind. I don¡¯t think Endimion said it with any hidden intentions. ¡°Oh, right.¡± Julia looked down at Endimion¡¯s arm, which was still wrapped around her waist, and asked naturally, while pulling away. ¡°¡¯My¡¯ Queen? What is that?¡± Julia looked at Endimion with a curious look. Surprisingly, his blue eyes showed an unusual appearance. ¡°I call my Queen, my Queen. Is there a problem?¡± ¡°Hmm, You¡¯re suddenly calling me in a way you didn¡¯t use to before.¡± While Julia tilted her head, Endimion replied vaguely, hugging her waist, which he had only known while dancing at parties and balls. ¡°I think we need a change now.¡± Julia blinked her eyes because he said it nonchalantly. I think his voice was a bit strange, am I misunderstanding? Chapter 16 That¡¯s when Endimion smiled, as he only does for her, and extended his hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± ¡°Oh, yeah.¡± Yeah, I guess it¡¯s just me. Julia got into the waiting carriage, holding his familiar hand with a smile. Today¡¯s preliminary inspection was also done by Knight Tremburn, the head of security, who closed the carriage. However, his hand trembled as he pulled on the hem of Julia¡¯s swaying dress that was poking out the door. ¡°I, I¡¯ll escort you comfortably.¡± Click, the door closed. As soon as the door was shut, Julia, who gracefully pretended not to know, looked back at Endimion to ask if he had seen the knight¡¯s nervous movements. But instead she caught the sight of him coldly staring out the window, as though he was sending lighting with his glare. ¡°Mion, do you hate that Knight?¡± ¡°Ya, very much. I heard he¡¯s a playboy who only lusts after married women.¡± ¡°What, really? I didn¡¯t see him that way.¡± ¡°They say there¡¯s been a lot of playboys these days. They¡¯re dirty, so if other men try to kiss the back of your hand, refuse them. All right?¡± ¡°Okay, I got it.¡± So that¡¯s why he did that earlier, huh? Julia muttered as she looked out at the Knight Tremburn with a hateful look. Endimion, who glanced at her, leaned against the seat with a satisfied face. It was Knight Tremburn who suddenly became a rotten person for being tactless. The carriage procession he led was extended. It was a nice sunny day, for the first time in a long time. *** Swish- Kyaek! A tearful cry of death sounded. Julia put her bow down, as she wiped off her sweat. Mion, who had taken his sword and rode off on his horse, was back shortly after finishing his inspection. ¡°Good job. You got through the vital points completely.¡± ¡°Phew, that¡¯s a relief. It¡¯s been a long time, so I was worried that my skills would be rusty.¡± ¡°Whose student are you, saying such hurtful words¡­¡± Julia burst into laughter at Endimion¡¯s stern voice. With a bright laugh, Endimion put his sword away and raised the corners of his mouth. ¡°Thank you. It¡¯s nice to be outside after a long time.¡± Julia, who came from a rural country, was used to living in nature. However, after becoming the Crown Princess of Semele, she was often frustrated because she had to stay in the royal castle. There was even a time when she couldn¡¯t breath due to something similar to homesickness. It was only her husband, who lived with her every day, that noticed this. During his time as Crown Prince, Endimion secretly brought Julia out to the training grounds. Although it was not a huge natural landscape, like her hometown, Julia could regain her breath by being able to run on an expanse of green grass. At first, she spent time watching Endimion review what he learned that day. And then, naturally, she became his disciple, learning what he had been taught during his training. Julia, who is naturally athletic, absorbed Endimion¡¯s teachings. Although she was not as good as Endimion, who was called a genius swordsman, it was sufficient enough to protect herself. That is how this young couple spent their blossoming adolescence. ¡°I think that¡¯s enough for the inspection. Let¡¯s get back before sundown.¡± Today¡¯s preliminary inspection was for tomorrow¡¯s royal hunting contest. Numerous animals lived in the vast forest owned by the royal family, and the knights came to see the forest in advance. Large dangerous wild animals, and great beasts who woke up from hibernation were cleared, leaving only moderate hunting. Likewise, dangerous beasts were being killed off since yesterday. Therefore, Endimion and Julia were originally scheduled to depart tomorrow morning. But the reason they came to the hunting grounds a day earlier is because of Endimion¡¯s consideration for Julia. Julia, who hasn¡¯t been outside of the palace in a long time, needed time to take a breath. Julia, who rode a horse and shot an arrow for the first time in a long time, got tired easily. But she felt very refreshed and happy. Endimion, while staring at Julia¡¯s delight with the freshness of the green trees and grasses, also looked pleased. Under the escort of knights, the King and his wife looked around the hunting grounds and finally turned their heads towards a shelter, not the royal palaces. Although they had already been out for inspections, the decision was made to enjoy freedom for a longer time. Chapter 17 Endimion and Julia decided to sleep overnight at a makeshift shelter in the middle of the hunting grounds and return to the palace at dawn in preparation for the march. ¡°We¡¯ve dealt with all the dangerous animals and beasts, and we¡¯ve set up a temporary fence. How many guards should I have in front of the shelter?¡± ¡°Station them outside the fence.¡± ¡°Yes, Your Majesty!¡± At the King¡¯s instructions, the knights stepped outside the fence in perfect order. Endimion gave a number of additional orders. Julia massaged her stiff shoulders and entered the shelter first. The temporary accommodation made of logs was cozy and pleasant. Of course, it was smaller than the royal palace, but it was a place where Kings usually stayed whenever they hunted, so it had everything they needed. There were even two bathrooms. The washroom was decorated with spirit stones like the palace, giving it a sophisticated look; there were no shortcomings. ¡°Hmm, I¡¯m not hungry.¡± Julia agonized over her thoughts in front of the bedroom. I had an early dinner with Endimion before. The royal chef skillfully packed a lunch box that was light but filled my stomach. Furthermore, I feel no hunger after such refreshing exercise. ¡°Should I wash first?¡± Julia glanced out the window. It seems like there is still a lot to be prepared for tomorrow¡¯s hunting competition, I can see Endimion still passing out orders. After some thoughts Julia took a bag with a change of clothes and stepped into the hallway. ¡®He¡¯ll know I¡¯ve gone to bathe when he sees I¡¯m not in the bedroom. I¡¯ll go back after a bath.¡¯ I felt uncomfortable because I sweated a lot after exercising for the first time in a long while. On top of that, I felt stuffy wearing a hunting suit that was so tight on my body to accommodate swift movements, compared to my usual loose dresses. Julia went into the bathroom thinking she would relieve her stiff muscles with hot water. The hunting ground inspection gets cumbersome with more people, so we didn¡¯t bring any servants. However, I sent some staff in advance a few days ago, so the accommodation would be perfectly prepared. In addition, some magical tools, so precious that they are exclusively dedicated to the King, were installed everywhere so there was no inconvenience in staying overnight. In fact there were even some Kings who had visited without servants to experience these special magical tools. Julia manipulated the spirit stone handles to warm up the water, and washed with the supplies that had been prepared for her. A pleasant floral aroma came from the item¡¯s her head maid had prepared. ¡°Ahhh, This is good.¡± Julia soaked herself in hot water that smelled of her favorite aroma, which filled the bathroom. The water, heated by a magical tool, was the perfect temperature to relieve fatigue. Naturally, she felt a little drowsy in the bath, due to her tired muscles. Finally, after taking a cool shower in the bathtub, Julia was clean and shining from head to toe. ¡° ¡­huh?¡± Julia, who was drying off her body and wet hair with a towel, stopped. I easily found and wore new underwear, but I can¡¯t find an indoor dress to change in my bag. I couldn¡¯t even find the lingerie I use as my pajamas. ¡®Ah, no!¡¯ I had said that I wouldn¡¯t need an inner dress to wear because I would be wearing my hunting clothes; there must have been a mistake. The maids, who have been too busy preparing for the royal hunting competition, seem to have made a mistake. ¡°Oh, what do I do? The dress I wore out of the place is hanging in the carriage!¡± The queen¡¯s composure was breaking down. No, I can¡¯t just wear underwear even if I don¡¯t have to save face! Julia, who had become pale, knelt on the floor after roughly covering herself with a towel. Then, she searched through her bag like crazy. ¡°Please, please!¡± New stockings, new underwear, new handkerchief¡­ I threw out whatever got in my hands, and spread it on the floor. Only after emptying the bag did I see a white cloth at the bottom. It was certainly larger than any of the previous items, so Julia quickly took it out. ¡°¡­¡­a shirt?¡± Chapter 18 It was a long broad male white shirt. It¡¯s made of a soft cloth, so one can wear it to sleep comfortably. ¡°It¡¯s Mion¡¯s.¡± It seems like the King¡¯s clothes got mixed in the Queen¡¯s bag. Julia put the shirt against her body in a daze. It¡¯s just a comfortable shirt for Endimion, but for her, it even covered her lower body. Of course, it doesn¡¯t come down to her calf like her lingerie. I can¡¯t help it. I¡¯ll have to wear this. ¡®When did it get this big?¡¯ Julia, who hurriedly put on the shirt, was dumbfounded. When I turned around, the white shirt fluttered around my knees and thighs. I thought of him as another 7 year old friend when I first saw him, but he¡¯s gotten this big already. Julia was lost in thought as she threw her clothes back into her bag. The King¡¯s clothes, which were washed clean and dried in the sun, did not have any body odor. But the soft touch on the bare skin made me feel strangely restless. The wrong-sized shirt, wrapped around my body, seemed to accentuate the difference between our physique. ¡®¡­¡­adult.¡¯ The meaning of the coming-of-age ceremony began to come to me in a slightly different way. Endimion is over a head taller than her, with broad shoulders, and a natural strong body. His face was beautiful and handsome like a flower, but his body was that of a born warrior. His swordsmanship teachers, when he was the crown prince, praised him as possessing the best body for holding a sword. Julia peeked under her shirt at her white soft skin and thin body. Her curvaceous body was the opposite of Mion¡¯s which was full of straight lines. Julia, who blinked for a moment, came to her senses and hung her wet towel. Then she went out into the hallway and quickly walked back to the bedroom. I was going through the hallway that didn¡¯t have any windows, when I suddenly remembered what Mion had said earlier. ¨C I think we need a change. I knew it in my head, but it felt as if I had just woken up from slumber and finally realized our reality. I had never dreamed of feeling a little strange, restless, and unfamiliar with the husband I have had for 12 years. It was a very strange feeling that I can¡¯t explain. ¡°Is it because of this shirt¡­¡± Due to the influence of her early education for queenship, Julia had a surprisingly conservative side to herself. Especially when it came to clothing. Even the Lingerie she wore as pajamas came down to her calves. Is it because I¡¯m wearing a shirt that doesn¡¯t even fit me instead of pajamas? The soft cloth that tickled my thighs every time I walked gave me goosebumps. It was awkward and ticklish, so I had the impulse to take it off but then I would be wearing only my underwear. It was fortunate that no one else was in the building. ¡®I need to find if there¡¯s something else I can wear.¡¯ Julia arrived in front of the bedroom with a light sigh. Then, trying to shake off the strange feeling, she turned the handle and opened the door. ¡°¡­.!¡± ¡°Julia.¡± As soon as I opened the door, I saw Endimion standing right in front of me. Maybe he was trying to open the door, but this beautiful wall slowly retracted its hand and looked at her. ¡°I didn¡¯t have a shirt, so I was going to ask if you saw it.¡± The bedroom door closed with a thud. I held my breath at this sound for some reason. Julia backtracked unknowingly and stopped when her path was blocked by the door that had closed behind her. She looked like a cornered rabbit Endimion blinked his long eyelashes, and approached her leisurely. ¡°Wa, Wait¡­¡± There was a sudden surge of embarrassment. Well-shaped, thick forearms. A lean and smooth waist. Abs as toned as a carnivore. In front of Julia, the half-naked sight of her husband, who wore nothing above his iliac bone. ¡°I see, it¡¯s because you were wearing it.¡± Endimion, who tilted his head slightly, swept his wet hair and got closer. His slow, predator-like, footsteps were breathtaking, sending shocks up her spine. At the moment Julia was so embarrassed that she tried to step back. She turned her head, but it was too late. There was no place to go because her back was already blocked by the door. Chapter 19 ¡°Ah. I, I¡¯m sorry. I don¡¯t have pajamas, so I¡¯ll borrow it for a while¡­¡± Julia hurriedly opened her mouth without knowing what she was saying. Meanwhile, Endimion stopped walking. As if to leave a safe distance, just three steps apart. It smelled of the cool fresh, yet soft perfume Endimion uses. As the scent penetrated her nose she became even stiffer. And her mouth closed by itself. Julia began to lift her head stiffly with a puzzled look, not knowing what to do. ¡®What, What¡¯s wrong with me?¡¯ I raised my eyes to reach his eye level. And then, by accident, really accidentally- Julia¡¯s purple eyes were captivated by Endimion¡¯s tough abs. The slick and supple hills had water droplets that had not been wiped off. ¡°¡­¡­¡± Julia stared blankly, and droplets fell as though they had waited for her. Drip The wooden floor was dyed dark. ¡°they look good on you, my clothes.¡± A low voice penetrated my ears, giving the illusion of licking my whole body. My head was dizzy and strange. Mion¡¯s subdued voice, a raw body that looks as hard as a stone. Actually, it wasn¡¯t the first time I¡¯ve seen Endimion¡¯s body. Every summer, he would only wear a white shirt on our boat trip, saying it was cumbersome. So I had grown up seeing his upper body revealed when he got in the water since I was young. There were also countless times when his gown was loose, and showed his skin. ¡®But why is it that today¡­¡¯ Julia hid her eyes in embarrassment. Somehow I hesitated to even make eye contact. That was when the tightly coupled abs moved and a low voice came above her head. ¡°Julia.¡± Endimion took a step closer. It was odd because it felt like those fluctuating muscles were going to reach me. Heuk, Julia, who swallowed her breath, shouted urgently. ¡°Wait, wait a second!¡± I hurried out of my spot as if I was fleeing. Then I ran to the suitcase next to the bed that I saw just in time. ¡°I¡¯ll give you back, your clothes!¡± Fortunately, the feeling of suffocation vanished as Endimion disappeared from my view. With a sigh of relief, Julia clicked her tongue as she searched through her luggage as though to dismantle it. I guess the shock I got in the bathroom is still present. Then again, how could I be embarrassed by looking at Mion? It¡¯s not anyone else, it¡¯s Mion! A shadow fell on Julia¡¯s back, as she was collecting herself. ¡°What are you looking for?¡± ¡°Ah, my pajamas. Have you seen them?¡± Julia, who was busy searching through her bag, asked. The shirt that was barely reaching her thighs felt itchy and useless. She had never worn short lengthed clothing that reached above her knees in her life. So if I change into the right clothes quickly, I¡¯ll never feel this weird again¡­ ¡°There are none.¡± ¡°¡­ eh?¡± Julia turned her head at his flat answer. The beautiful wall-like buit of the man looked down at her, with the serenity of a lake. ¡°I was looking for my shirt earlier, and there weren¡¯t any of your clothes.¡± ¡°What? That can¡¯t be!¡± Julia, who believed that Endimion and her clothes were mixed together, hurriedly turned the bag upside down. But, as he said, there was nothing in the luggage except Endimion¡¯s belongings. In vain, Julia sank down on the carpet. ¡°All my maids made this mistake? Even Head Maid Mary Ann?¡± ¡°They¡¯re going to bring a change of clothes tomorrow morning, so just sleep like that for tonight¡± Endimion lightly pointed his chin towards her as if he was yielding his shirt. Julia stood up clumsily due to the soft fur of the carpet tickling her tights, and nodded. ¡°That¡¯s strange, This has never happened before.¡± ¡°They must have forgotten because they had a lot to prepare.¡± Endimion walked to bed with uncharacteristically generous words. He even seemed to feel good in a way. Julia followed with a look of wonder. ¡®Hmmm, usually he would have said to reduce their salaries. Is he trying to be generous now that he¡¯s an adult?¡¯ Although not a tyrant, Endimion was a King who was far from merciful. If a person working below him made a mistake, he dealt a sharp punishment without blinking an eye. It was mostly Julia who balanced him out, and indulged in generosity. Chapter 20 ¡°He¡¯s all grown up.¡± When Julia started looking at Endimion with eyes that seemed to say, I¡¯m proud of you, he was already lying on the bed. He looked as relaxed as a full lion, with his legs hanging down the blanket. Unconsciously, Julia took in his broad shoulders as if he belonged to a different race from her. It¡¯s such a novel sight that I want to reach out and touch it at least once. ¡®He¡¯s really all grown¡­¡¯ ¡°What are you doing? Come here.¡± ¡°Huh? Oh, yeah.¡± Julia, who was suddenly awakened from her thoughts, belatedly got onto the bed. Somehow she felt like she wasn¡¯t herself today. ¡®I guess I was tired because I haven¡¯t been out in a long time.¡¯ Tomorrow¡¯s hunting competition is a very important event, so I¡¯m going to get a good night¡¯s sleep to be in a perfect condition tomorrow. Julia, who had made up her mind, lifted the blanket and went inside, then suddenly added, ¡°Oh, you didn¡¯t forget that there will be ladies coming to the hunt tomorrow, right?¡± ¡°¡­¡­ ¡± ¡°Honestly, I wasn¡¯t very picky in selecting because it was a bit sudden. I sent invitations to young ladies of Counts with a good reputation in society, so think of it as an opportunity to get familiar with their faces for now.¡± That¡¯s right. This was the other purpose for holding the royal hunting contest. The night Julia spoke of the need for a concubine to get a successor, Endimion left the bedroom showing his discomfort. Julia was concerned and went to his office the next day. But he didn¡¯t meet her, saying he was busy. After worrying Julia all day, Endimion returned to their bedroom in the middle of the night. ¨C I¡¯ve been thinking, I believe you¡¯re right. I totally agree with you on needing a successor. The clear answer was accompanied by both relief and some regret. Still, I wish you¡¯d been a little more reluctant. Julia wanted to complain at Endimion who spoke with cold eyes as though it concerned a stranger. No matter how it is, how can you agree so quickly after I only recommended it once? What about our 12-year friendship? But She knew that she didn¡¯t have the right to be upset because she had suggested it first. In addition, Julia was not just Endimion¡¯s childhood friend, but his Queen. A position that should give priority to Endimion¡¯s wellbeing over one¡¯s own emotions. Julia wiped out her childish feelings to fulfill her duty as a good Queen. She opened her mouth with her usual bright voice. ¨C Then we¡¯ll have to pick out a concubine¡­ ¨C Oh. I have something to say about that. ¨C What? ¨C We can¡¯t choose the successor¡¯s mother that easily. Julia blinked her eyes wondering what he meant, when Endimion suggested using a royal hunting contest. He suggested using their coming-of-age celebratory hunting contest to look for candidates amongst the attending ladies. It was originally an event involving only a few high-ranking deputies and their families. But Endimion said Julia could invite ladies she deemed fit, with no limits, while keeping their plan a secret. It was an unusual suggestion, but it sounded plausible as the royal hunting competition is the birthplace of many couples. In addition, as the Queen, Julia also wanted to bring in a proper lady as his concubine. It would be better to evaluate their natural personality instead of the persona they prepared in advance. ¨C All right, if you think so. Thus, the hunting competition was prepared under the approval of the King and Queen. ¡°Just, take a look comfortably. If there are some fine people we can call them back to the coming-of-age ball so it won¡¯t be uncomfortable¡­¡± It was when Julia spoke kindly. She could see Endimion staring at her. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Julia, who was about to go under the blanket, tilted her head and asked. He definitely looks the same as usual, but somehow it felt like the temperature had dropped down sharply. ¡°More than that, I want to ask you something.¡± ¡°Me? What is it?¡± Julia asked in reply to his unexpected words. Endimion turned his body completely towards her as if he had been waiting. Chapter 21 ¡°What is it..?¡± And he came up. Julia¡¯s words faded as she watched their distance narrowing. As Endimion approached, the blanket that was being pushed tickled her bare legs again. She had forgotten for a moment, but she got goosebumps when the soft cloth passed along her thighs. Eventually Julia couldn¡¯t stand it and tried to get out of bed. ¡°Hey, Mion? I¡¯ll go change my clothes. I think wearing a bathrobe will be better. It¡¯s so uncomfortable that-!¡± ¡°Is there anything you want?¡± Low tones poured down from behind her back, and Endimion¡¯s arm blocked Julia¡¯s retreat in a blink of an eye. Reflexibly Julia turned her back, and Endimion blocked the other side with another arm. Before she knew it, Julia was trapped between Endimion¡¯s arms, with her back against a pillow and the headboard. ¡°Mion?¡± ¡°Not for me, but for you.¡± She looked up at him in an awkwardly raised position. Endimion¡¯s deep lake-colored eyes were beautiful as usual, and his proportional face was still handsome. The skin, which was much smoother than other men, looked like white marble, and his masculine jawline and nose bridge were superior to those of statues. It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve seen him this closely. Julia, who felt her eyes were getting happy, smiled at Endimion. ¡°You mean a gift to celebrate reaching adulthood?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Julia, who asked playfully, opened her eyes a bit wider. Somehow, Endimion felt different from usual. It¡¯s hard to explain, but for some reason¡­ ¡°Thanks. But since you¡¯re asking me all of a sudden, I don¡¯t know¡­¡± ¡°Not a dress or jewelry, but something special.¡± Something special? Julia blinked her eyes with a puzzled look. On the other hand, Endimion¡¯s blue eyes stared at her even harder, not blinking at all. Suddenly Julia felt that the atmosphere surrounding him was different from before. It was not an illusion. ¡°For example.¡± Endimion whispered softly and swept his hair, and naturally her eyes followed. Julia saw his black hair parting in his long, straight fingers. The hard wrists that slowly slipped through the hair, the sleek arm muscles that pleased the eye, and even the veins slightly showing under the skin. ¡°Something you want from me.¡± A languid voice gripped the air. Julia knew her body was slowly slipping down, but somehow she couldn¡¯t move. Before she knew it, Julia was lying on the bed, and Endimion was gently holding her under his arms. ¡°Ah, you know. Mion?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t think about anyone else, tell me what you really want from me.¡± His arm slowly approached and removed Julia¡¯s blond hair, covering her face. Then a hard finger touched her soft cheek, and soon she felt like he was going to cup her face, he was even touching her earlobes. Soon, a hard finger stroked her tender skin. ¡°¡­¡­¡± ¡°I¡¯ll give you anything.¡± It was a tantalizing touch, as if they had bumped into each other by accident. It felt so ticklish that I wanted to cover my head with the blanket. ¡°The right to rule over the king, even the right to keep the king under your feet is fine.¡± What kind of joke is this? However, Endimion is not the type to play pranks. But it¡¯s too serious to laugh off because it was nonsensical. Julia moistened her lips in the air in the bedroom surrounding her. I felt more suffocated laying under Endimion¡¯s arms. Julia tried to wave her hands reflexively to relieve this strange atmosphere. ¡°No, I don¡¯t know that kind of¡­¡± Immediately Endimion gently grabbed her wrist and pulled it. ¡°If you really don¡¯t know, I can help you.¡± Endimion¡¯s lips touched the inside of her wrist. The moist flesh was rubbed on the tender skin as if brandishing itself, and it left with a light sound. Julia opened her eyes wide. Endimion, who looked down at her response, immediately reached out his arm to her other wrist. This time again, she was easily caught by him. ¡°When I say I¡¯ll give you anything, it doesn¡¯t have to be an object. For example¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡± ¡°My crown, my throne¡­¡­.even my body.¡± The last words were whispered, but they stuck in my ear. Chapter 22 The blanket, which had been blocking Julia from Endimion, was pushed aside. Their two bodies became so close that their sights were tangled, and Endimion narrowed his eyes and slowly lowered his face back into her wrist and opened his mouth. ¡°So, my Que-¡± ¡°Hunting clothes!¡± Endimion paused. It was because of the clear voice that sounded just before their soft skins touched. Julia, who cut him off by a hair¡¯s breadth, got up. Then she smiled brightly, and shouted clearly once again to him, who met her eyes. ¡°I just remembered. I want a new hunting suit!¡± ¡°¡­¡­.hunting suit?¡± ¡°Yeah. Something as strong as yours, not thin like before!¡± ¡°¡­¡± ¡°What is it? You can¡¯t?¡± ¡°¡­no, well¡­¡± When Julia asked again, Endimion nodded reflexively. Then he watched Julia, who was smiling, with complicated eyes before finally smiled as well. The previous strange atmosphere was washed away. The couple¡¯s conversation naturally shifted to the topic of tomorrow. ¡°Wow, Duke Tristan is already that old? What if he overdoes it tomorrow?¡± ¡°He insisted on coming even when he didn¡¯t have to. The old man is stubborn.¡± ¡°Mion, you can¡¯t say about an elder.¡± As usual, the couple, lying side by side, covered in a blanket, talked to each other, and said good-night to each other before extinguishing the fire as the night fell. Soon a quiet silence enveloped the bedroom. * * * A few hours later- The room was quiet with the moonlight shining through the window From time to time, one could only hear the sound of a blanket shifting on the couple¡¯s bed. Endimion, who fell asleep with even breathes turned in his sleep. Because of this, the blanket was dragged with a roar, revealing a bit of Julia¡¯s body, which had been covered. The bottom of the shirt was rolled up and the air reached her bare legs. ¡°Heuk¡± At the same time, Julia, who opened her eyes, hurriedly checked to see if Endimion had fallen asleep. She saw him sleeping, and just when she was about to make a sigh of relief she quickly turned to the other side. ¡®Ah, what do I do¡­!¡¯ My face turned red. My heart, which had been calm all my life, was about to explode from jumping like crazy. My earlobes, the inside of my wrists, and even the thighs touched by his shirt were itchy and hot. ¨C My crown, my throne¡­¡­.even my body. ¨C I¡¯ll give you anything. Like an echo, Endimion¡¯s languid voice didn¡¯t leave my mind. I was so surprised earlier that I pretended I didn¡¯t know anything. But the truth is, from then on, Julia¡¯s head was in a great panic. ¡®Wha, what¡¯s wrong with this person all of a sudden? Does he know what it sounds like? I¡¯m the only one who¡¯s hearing it this way, right?¡¯ I couldn¡¯t sleep because of my speculations that didn¡¯t seem to subside. Julia touched her burning face and eventually stayed up all night. ¡®¡­.I¡¯ll have to use the second method.¡¯ She didn¡¯t know what her husband, who had his back against hers, was thinking. * ¡°Please raise your head a little. Yes, like that.¡± Julia is busy getting massaged and preparing early in the morning at the hands of her fussy maids. Five people clinging together, changing her clothes and getting her hair done for hours resulted in Julia looking as if she was dressed for a ball. Julia sat in a queenly position and got ready, but her eyes slowly closed without her knowing. ¡°My Queen, did you happen to stay up late last night?¡± The exclusive maid, known for her golden hands, asked softly while applying makeup. As Julia looked at her eyes, the veteran maid whispered with a smile. ¡°It¡¯s a little dark under your eyes. The fact that your highnesses have a great relationship in the bedroom, but you need a good night¡¯s sleep to be dressed up to perfection.¡± ¡°I, I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about. I just felt uncomfortable because my bed changed.¡± It¡¯s not like that! Julia quickly denied the misunderstanding, but the maidens laughed amongst themselves out of joy. ¡°You can¡¯t do this during the coming-of-age celebration. Of course, you¡¯re beautiful without having anything done, but you¡¯ll be even more breathtaking with styling as your wings. Do you understand me?¡± ¡°I understand¡­¡± Chapter 23 Julia gave up and nodded gently, as it was obvious that more denial would lead to a greater mischievous misunderstandings. Her maids exchanged glances and showed more enthusiasm on their faces. Two hours passed in this manner. Julia was finally ready by the time the bright sun shone above the blue sky. *** PAH-PA-RA-PAAA! In the middle of the green forest a procession of the king and his wife arrived with the sound of trumpets resonating through the vast open space. Instead of waiting under the noble purple tent, representing the Semele royal family, the ladies, the ministers, and the aristocrats, all stood up to show respect. ¡°Seeing the Great Sun of Semele!¡± ¡°I meet the Radiant Glory of Semele!¡± Dozens of people lifted their heads one after another as the two royals walked on a long purple carpet. Julia walked alongside Endimion with a gentle smile, and they sat side by side on the throne at the head of the table. When the King and his wife settled down, everyone else also sat in their chairs. And as the elegant orchestra started to play, they began greeting each other in order of rank. ¡°Your Majesty and My Queen. Congratulations on becoming adults.¡± ¡°Duke Tristan, welcome. How¡¯s your health?¡± A white-haired old man greeted me. He is the head of a family that had been true to the royal family since the reign of the King before the last. Julia greeted Duke Tristan with a welcoming smile while he spoke with Endimion. ¡°Thanks to you, I feel much better. Haha, I must stay alive until my grandson, who was born last year, gets married. Come to think of it, Your Majesty will soon¡­¡± Uh. ¡°Duke, did you receive the gift I sent to your mansion?¡± Julia instinctively slipped in and changed the subject when the Duke was on the verge of chatting away. Fortunately, the old duke seemed to have been moved by the gentle Queen¡¯s voice. ¡°Oh, the Queen celebrated my 50th wedding anniversary and sent a gift! It¡¯s a great blessing for this old man.¡± ¡°It¡¯s the least I could do. I hope the Duke will be healthy for a long time and stay loyal to his majesty and the royal family.¡± Fortunately, the Duke Tristan spoke a few more words with Julia, showing a deeply moved face, and then walked away. Once the duke¡¯s conversation, which usually lasted at least an hour, ended, the nobles who were waiting for their turn sighed with relief. Julia also smiled and enjoyed the atmosphere of the banquet with her eyes closed. ¡°You¡¯re amazing. I can¡¯t believe you ended the old man¡¯s conversation in one try.¡± It was a intrigued voice. Before the next aristocrat approached, Endimion whispered to Julia while breaking out of his composure. It¡¯s been less than 30 minutes since we¡¯ve received greetings, but he is already showing his boredom. In contrast, Julia, who sat upright, whispered in a playful way without changing her expression, ¡°It¡¯s the traditional role of the Queen. What do you think, was I good?¡± ¡°It was too perfect, my Queen.¡± Endimion answered in a low voice. Then, with an arrogant smile, he sat leaning in closer. ¡®Again.¡¯ It was an ordinary answer, but Julia suddenly felt strange and bowed her head in a hurry. ¡®My¡¯ queen. I heard it once yesterday, but now it sounds especially meaningful right now. At the same time, I remembered last night¡¯s strange atmosphere that I tried to forget. ¡®Why did you say that to me?¡¯ Julia and Endimion exchanged gifts every year to celebrate their wedding. It¡¯s almost our 13th wedding anniversary, and we¡¯re having our coming-of-age ceremony together, so planning to give me a special gift isn¡¯t stange. But what is it with those strange eyes and suffocating air last night? And saying ¡®Tell me everything, I¡¯ll give you authority over the king, even my body¡¯! ¡®Ah.¡¯ At last, I even remembered him kissing the inside of my wrist. Julia hastily pressed the inside of her wrist with her other hand. After becoming conscious of it, turning towards him was hard, as the place where his lips had touched felt itchy and hot again. Suddenly, the husband who felt as close as though they shared one body, felt awkward. Endimion has kissed the back of her hand many times at each ball. All the other nobles did so too when showing respect to the Queen, so it was only proper manners to kiss her hands. Chapter 24 However, Endimion¡¯s actions yesterday were completely different. ¡®What does this mean?¡¯ Julia gracefully greeted the minister who was next in line, while she thought of something else. Now that I¡¯m an adult, does it mean that I should be more like an adult instead of a childhood friend? No way. If it was just that, why would he suddenly act and say such strange things? Julia was not a fool. She had been praised as a perfect Queen even before she became one because she is quick-witted and clever. ¡®¡­¡­maybe.¡¯ Julia smiled at the old Duke after she finished greeting him, and glanced over at Endimion. The body that was a little over 190 tassens* sat with its long legs crossed, gazing down proudly. After a moment of hesitation, Julia opened her mouth, unable to withstand her curiosity, to take a chance. ¡°I¡­¡± ¡°I meet the Great Sun of Semele and the Radiant Glory.¡± The voices of a man and woman were heard from in front of me. Julia, who didn¡¯t even know who was coming up because she had been glancing over at Endimion, turned her head. A middle-aged man with dark brown hair and the young lady who looked just like him stood side by side in front of her. The man lowered his head first. ¡°Duke Kennedy Sawyer greets you. Your Grace, and Queen-nim, we congratulate you on becoming adults.¡± ¡­¡­¡®Sawyer¡¯? Julia, who was wondering about their foreign faces, blinked her eyes. ¡°Long time no see, Duke Sawyer.¡± Endimion greeted in a calm voice. Then the man smiled naturally and offered a ceremonial apology, saying, he was sorry to have not shown up for a long time. ¡°Kiara Sawyer greets you. Congratulations on holding your coming-of-age ceremony.¡± The lady standing next to the man bowed with a proper posture. The fresh green dress spread to the side and combined with her chestnut hair, it created a lively atmosphere. ¡®Kiara¡­¡¯ It was a name she knew. Julia closed her lips, which were about to gape in surprise. I couldn¡¯t help it if my eyes got a bit bigger. ¡°Nice to meet you for the first time, Queen-nim. May God bless you.¡± The lady who stood up spoke softly and met her with olive eyes. Julia quickly gathered her composure. ¡°Nice to meet you, Lady Sawyer.¡± She¡¯s ¡®that¡¯ lady. ¡°I wasn¡¯t invited directly, but I was invited by the Duchess of Hyde. I was wondering if it was rude, as it is my first time in a royal hunting contest since I was a kid¡­I apologize if it¡¯s offensive, Queen-nim.¡± ¡°There¡¯s no way that¡¯s the case. I¡¯m glad you came. I hope you have a good time.¡± Iris said she wouldn¡¯t attend as she is sick, but it seems she has given her invitation to her friend. Julia greeted the lady in the calm and friendly manner of a Queen, contrary to her alert mind. The lady with an air of abject beauty replied, ¡°Thank you, Queen-nim.¡± Iris¡¯ friend, who is the daughter of a duke with the blood of a foreign country¡­ ¡°It¡¯s been a long time, Your Majesty.¡± Endimion¡¯s ex-fianc¨¦e. ¡°Yes, It¡¯s been a long time.¡± Endimion still greeted the lady with boredom. Julia felt her attention rushing towards this lady compared to everyone who came before her. Although she was smiling brightly as if nothing had happened. The two exchanged a few more polite words in front of the Duke Sawyer and Julia. The ministers were already done, and it was time to greet the aristocrats and ladies who were invited as concubine candidates. It seemed like Kiara Sawyer had cut the line to be the first among all the ladies. ¡°I haven¡¯t been able to visit you often because I¡¯ve been ill, and had to stay abroad for a long time.¡± ¡°You look healthy now. I hope you stay healthy.¡± Even while having a light conversation with Duke Sawyer, Julia focused on Endimion and Kiara¡¯s conversation. Now, Kiara was telling Endimion about her childhood memories. Julia felt strange because there was no room for her to intervene as it was before she got married. ¡®I wish she would finish and leave quickly.¡® As the conversation between Kiara and Endimion continued, Julia felt nervous and fiddled with her fingertips. I¡¯d rather have other ladies come and say hello. ¡®¡­¡­why?¡¯ * Their method of measurement, probably centimeters(as used in Korea) Chapter 25 part 1 Chapter 25 part 1 ¡°S-Stop! I¡¯m really busy tomorrow!¡± In four hours, you have to get up and get ready, attend a luncheon after being greeted by envoys from all over the world, and attend a dinner while being greeted by aristocrats in the evening! Julia couldn¡¯t breathe and spit it out, then clenched and crossed her arms to cover her eyes. ¡°And there¡¯s a dance at night!¡± After an urgent shout, there was a weightless silence. ¡°¡­..¡± There was only the sound of Julia¡¯s heavy breathing in the bed. Huh? Julia shrugged in tight tension, but when there was no sound, she frantically lowered her arms. ¡°Gasp.¡± And their eyes met right away. Julia looked scared, but his blue eyes, which were staring down at her, curved beautifully as soon as their eyes met. The corners of his mouth closed in a straight line and went up, drawing a gentle line. ¡°I¡¯m kidding.¡± Endimion, who whispered, released his hand from the robe he was about to throw away at any moment. Then, he brushed away Julia¡¯s long, scattered blonde hair, gently squeezing the tip of it and kissing them. With his other hand, he wrapped his big palm around one of Julia¡¯s smooth cheeks and rubbed it with his thumbs gently. ¡°Because I don¡¯t want to be beaten up by my wife and sleep alone again.¡± His thumb, who touched her cheeks every single time, seemed too hot. Julia couldn¡¯t move as if she were tied up. Endimion looked with possessive eyes at blonde hair flowing down his fingers, and slowly climbed to her top. W-What just happened¡­ as Julia¡¯s eyes followed him, Endimion lay next to her with a languid face. ¡®Ahh! Ahhh!¡¯ It was only then that Julia, who realized that he had played a joke, struggled with shame and turned to the other side. Her fully cooked face was burning and she had to take a shower with ice water to cool it down. ¡®You¡¯re being swayed!¡¯ When Julia, who became teary and buried her face tightly in the pillow, felt a light vibration, and a laughing voice was heard from behind her back. ¡°I¡¯m not saying I don¡¯t want to.¡± ¡°Endimion Semele!¡± Eventually Julia screamed. Endimion, who watched with satisfaction as Julia¡¯s protective, round back and exposed nape trembled, finally burst into laughter. Julia, who heard his low laughter, was resentful, but it felt like she was going to die of embarrassment. ¡°Sleep alone!¡± At last, Julia raised her upper body, shouting with a burning face. At this rate, I would not be able to sleep properly due to his pranks! ¡°Don¡¯t leave.¡± But again, Julia was dragged by gentle hands and laid down back on bed. As Julia struggled, a voice with a smirk on her back whispered to her. ¡°Sleep next to me.¡± A low voice gently caressed her ear. At the same time, a hard arm wrapped around Julia¡¯s waist with her thin silk pajama was pulled and hugged by Endimion. ¡°N-No, I¡¯ll go to another room!¡± ¡°I won¡¯t touch you.¡± Julia, who was held back by his broad arms, timidly rebelled, but Endimion, who muttered a word, only pulled Julia closer. Gasp. In an instant, Julia, who was tightly hugged by Endimion, breathed in silence. ¡°Good night.¡± Endimion greeted her from the back of her head as if he were playing. Under the same fire, they hugged each other in only thin nightdresses, and every time he spoke, it felt like a deep cave resonated. Before long, the glow in the dark turned off and the bed cover went down. As usual, Julia and Endimion were the only two in the secret space that was completely blocked from the outside. In the middle of the night, when a peaceful darkness fell and was completely silent, there was only Julia, who was dumbfounded silently. ¡®T-This¡­.¡¯ I insisted on sleeping separately, but I didn¡¯t hate what happened. Even though it was unfamiliar and awkward, I honestly didn¡¯t hate the excitement that made my whole body heat up. Endimion¡¯s hard arms, which hugged her waist tenderly, were embarrassing and a little upsetting, but at the same time she trembled. Yeah, I¡¯m sure I don¡¯t hate it, but¡­ ¡°M-Mion! Your body is so hot¡­¡± The problem was this. Julia begged in a trembling voice and tried to move forward. As their body outlines engraved in the brain of how the body was split and shaped like a carnivore that had barely held back memories, the outlines of the body engraved in the brain came to mind in an instant. As the two layers of cloth blocking Julia and Endimion from absorbing each other¡¯s heat was like burning, a low-pitched voice answered like a sigh. ¡°It¡¯s because of you.¡± It was calm but very explicit. Julia, who bit her lower lip tight, closed her eyes tightly. ¡®I don¡¯t know!¡¯ I felt like I was suffocating from the firmness and heat that I felt behind my back. As Julia¡¯s soft body hardened and gained strength, Endymion, who had been silent for a moment, murmured in a murky voice. ¡°It¡¯s hard to move.¡± ¡°¡­.¡± ¡°So, sleep like this.¡± His breath tickled behind her ears, and her hair stood up. Julia¡¯s eyes widened. At the same time she could fully realize the situation. The fact that when the relationship between the two has changed, it will be absolutely impossible to bring their comfortable relationship back to what it used to be. And¡­ ¡®H-How can I sleep?¡¯ After the incident that crossed the line, it became so uncomfortable to sleep in the same bed with a husband who had slept with her for 12 years. ¡°M-Mion, I¡¯m going to another room¡­¡± ¡°No.¡± ¡°O-Or a separate bed¡­¡± ¡°¡­I told you not to move.¡± With a growling sigh, Julia finally shut up. At last there was stillness in the bedroom of King Semele and his wife. But in Julia¡¯s mind, who pretended to be asleep in silence, she did not. Julia grip the blanket in her hand furiously all night, waiting the light dawn came up and the maids came to wake her up, ¡®Please¡­!¡¯ Can we please use two beds?