(Act 2 Scene 1)

In a winding street of Zeboim…

A rare mild winter night. The citizens of the Corleone vassal state paired up in twos or threes, fours, or fives to whisper words of love and indulge in drinking and … other pleasurable activities. The magic lights that dimly lit up the streets created an atmosphere unique to Zeboim. There were street vendors here and there selling arancinis and lampredottos. The cries of seabirds and the faint sound of the sea could be heard in the distance.

Divine beasts, Rhea and Perry de Riester enter.

Rhea: Squeeee. (Fate plays its usual prank and gathers the youths of Riester in this decadent yet beautiful land of two islands. The Imperial Crown Prince, with his fiery temper and noble presence, wishes to rescue his flower-like friend from danger. Tis then that he senses a familiar aura of water beneath the shadows of the island. How ironic that the most delightful harmony is to take place in this land that has been forsaken by the Almighty God.)

Perry: Whimper. (In this fated meeting place of Christelle de Sarnez and Cédric Riester, Prince Jesse Venetiaan – praise the esteemed one who carries the will of the Almighty God! – faces the greatest trial of his life. What shall partake on this stage is an impromptu retelling of his tale. Please inform us of any shortcomings you may find as we shall return with a better and more refined version in the next performance.)

Rhea and Perry quickly exit onto Scaramuccia’s shoulders.

Cédric: (Off to the side) I must confirm if it truly is him.

Scaramuccia, our dear Imperial Crown Prince Cédric, hides in the darkness of the alley, eavesdropping on the people walking past and observing their movements. Percy de Riester is still maintaining the appearance of a crow.

Passerby1: (Excitedly) Does this mean that the Signora will gain a foreign husband? That has to be the case if the blonde widower attendant is to attend to her tonight!

Passerby2: I guess that’s possible! Anyway, it is true that he will enter her private chambers tonight! – Wait, look over there! (He shakes Passerby1 and points toward the entrance of the alley) I haven’t seen such a stunning signora in a long time.

The crowd looks toward a distant figure. A mysterious young woman and a more mature woman enter with a extravagantly dressed noble lady. The crowd starts to murmur.

Passerby1: Who are you talking about? The signora in the middle?

Passerby2: She is amazing as well, but I prefer the lady on the right. (Pointing toward Isabelle) Ah! Her light green hair is as fresh as the newly sprouted buds of spring, while her black eyes are as deep as the autumn night sky singing you a sweet lullaby. How sweet shall the voice flowing out of those lips be?

Passerby1: (Wagging his finger) You truly don’t know a thing. No wonder you are out here with me instead of a lover during this season. Look at the lady on the left of the noble madam. (Pulling the sleeve of Passerby2) Her rare pink hair looks ready to cast the spell of love at any moment, and a single look into her blue eyes that are more mysterious than the waters of Zeboim makes you feel like you are going to drown. But nothing can beat her white skin and pretty little lips!

Christelle, dressed as an attendant, scowl at them. She quickly changes expressions when they make eye contact.

Passerby1: The angel doth smile at me. Shall I try talking to her?

Passerby2: Sure, why not?! No. Maybe this is the greatest fortune we will experience tonight.

Passerby1: Tonight? Don’t you mean this year?

The two of them chuckle and approach Christelle’s group. Christelle discreetly fixes Ellen’s clothes pretending not to see them.

Christelle: Signora, are you not cold? Shall I place another blanket around your shoulders?

Ellen: No, baby miss. (While slapping her lips) Ah, no, that’s not right. (In an awkward tone) Ah, no. Thank you.

Isabelle: (Smiling and patting the back of Ellen’s hand) Ollie, this is fun. I know I shouldn’t feel this way, but…… I am having fun despite having escaped abroad. I should be focused as your guardian, but…

Christelle: It’s okay. (Smiling while channeling ether inside her) Each of us being one-third focused would be a whole person’s worth between the three of us, but I’m already doing enough for three people. (Off to the side) The pirate ship we came on still seems fine as well.

Passerby1: Deepest greetings to the three ladies shining as beautiful as the stars.

Christelle: Ah, yes.

Christelle slowly steps in front of the two women.

Passerby2: Tis such a cold night. May we invite you for a cup of amaretto in a warm place?

Christelle: No thank you.

Passerby1: Ah, ah, signora. It looks like it is your first time in the northern part of Zeboim. (Extending his hand toward Christelle’s cheek) We can lead you to a shortcut to pleasure and deligh- ahhh!

Christelle instantly kicks Passerby1’s hand. Passerby1 clutches his hand and rolls on the ground. People nearby gasp and scatter.

Passerby2: Hey lady! What was that for?!

Christelle: (Coldly) Listen when a woman says no. I would have said yes if I wanted it! Where do you think you are trying to touch? Do you want to die?!

Passerby2: But to act like this…… (Huffing) You were the one who smiled at us first! I must avenge my friend right here!

Christelle: Bullshit, would you have offered me some money if I was crying?!

Passerby2 clenches his teeth and charge at Ellen and Isabelle in the back. Scaramuccia enters with his cape fluttering. Cédric swings his sheathed Sword of Wisdom from the Flaming Star to fend off the attackers. Isabelle and Ellen get scared, but Christelle remains firm and shields the two of them. A large crow flies above their heads, creating an ominous mood. Dust rises from the bodies of the beaten men.

Passerby1: Scaramuccia- (stumbling backwards while looking pale) -ahhh, aaaaaah! Run! Run as fast as you can!

Passerby2: You dumbass, I’m already running! Eek! (At the same time as Passerby1) Scaramuccia has appeared!

The two of them shout as they run past the alley. The onlookers have already escaped into buildings. The divine beasts run up to Christelle’s ankles to show that they are happy to see her. Silence.

Christelle: (Tightly hugging the divine beasts) Aigoo! I could have had another hit!

Cédric: (Scowling) What?

Ellen: It’s okay, baby miss. (Patting Christelle’s back) This place is full of lustful fools so you can have a payday at any time. (Looking at Scaramuccia) As for this strikingly handsome gentleman……

Christelle: (Dryly) The VIP who made us lose our allowance.

Isabelle: That’s a bit disappointing but he still came to help us out. Let’s thank him.

Isabelle is consoling Christelle and is late to notice the divine beasts. She looks back at Scaramuccia in shock. His orange eyes sparkle underneath the mask.

Isabelle: Holy Almighty God. (Urgently bows) I greet his Royal Highness, Crown prince Cédric.

Ellen: Excuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuse me?!

Wet nurse Ellen gasps in astonishment and plants her face on the ground. Christelle helps her stand back up, puts the divine beasts down and shows her respect. Then shoots a not-so-hostile glare at Cédric.

Cédric: ‘Another hit?’

Christelle: People like that. (Lowering her voice) Anybody who tries to mess with us, we lead them to secluded areas to teach them a lesson and take their wallet. We used that money to buy these clothes and get some decent lodging.

Silence. Christelle quickly added on.

Christelle: Only the guys who dare to put their hands on us or act like disgusting little pigs. We respectfully rejected any respectful people.

Cédric: What are you doing in Zeboim?

Christelle: Obviously I escaped from my father, your Royal Highness. Ah! (Opens her eyes wide and takes one step closer to Cédric) That guy was creating a weird pamphlet to slander his highness. He is sick, but I think he is using that as a disguise as well. He is completely out of his mind. We got here thanks to Percy. (Off to the side) Although we lowered our anchor thinking this was Sérénité. (Pause) I heard rumors that a Marquis of the Empire was here as a guest of the Admiral. Could that possibly be his highness and the others?

Cédric: As I expected.

Cédric extended his arm and the crow that had been flying above them lands on his arm. Christelle’s jaw dropped.

Christelle: Is this guy perhaps……

Percy: Pi― po! (That is correct. I am happy to see that you have gathered together. But what is to happen from here is solely on all of you and I do not wish to concern myself with the matter. I am a free being.)

Christelle: Percy! Thank you so much for helping us. I am so happy to see you again! How did you end up as a crow this time? You are so amazing.

Christelle, Isabelle, and Ellen affectionately pat the crow’s wings and back. Percy enjoys the warmth. Christelle looks up at the crown prince.

Christelle: (In a barely audible voice) As for you your Royal Highness, I’m sure you didn’t chase us…… You must be here to save his highness, right? (Off to the side) But what is up with the mask? Why is he the only one with this critical hit? Well, I guess showing his face would be an even stronger critical hit.

Cédric: Yes. I heard that he will soon enter the Admiral’s bedroom.

The three women drop their jaws in shock.

Isabelle: (Covering her mouth with her hand) Why, why would such an esteemed sir make such a decision?

Cédric: It is probably to use the international portal. All of the land routes and portals from the southern part of the Empire to the Imperial Capital have been sealed.

Ellen: Oh my goodness!

Christelle: I have a lot of questions for you, but it sounds like that will have to wait, your Royal Highness. (With a solemn look on her face) Let’s come up with a plan and make our move. According to what you just said, every minute counts right now.

Cédric flicks his chin. The group exits together.

*

(Act 2 Scene 2)

A few hours later… Admiral Emma Corleone’s bedroom.

Sound of waves could be heard from the sharp cliff on top of the island. The golden candlesticks placed around the room dimly light the dark room. A man whose whole body is covered by a black veil sits alone on a bed with red curtains. The Admiral approaches him without hiding her presence.

Jesse: (Anxious voice) That, mm. Hmm!

The Admiral scoffs.

Emma: How adorable. But there’s no way this is your first time.

Jesse: Excuse me? Sorry, what did you just say? (Off to the side) I can’t hear very well.

Emma: I don’t enjoy repeating myself.

The Admiral uses her hook to yank open the curtains. The man’s back is visible. Emma tries to push him down.

Jesse: (Dodges quickly) Admiral, one moment please! There is something I am curious about.

Emma: (Clicking her tongue) How annoying. Are you the type who needs to talk to get in the mood?

Jesse: Yes ma’am, I’m sure it will be a very interesting story. You may end up so curious about the details that you will forget about everything else. You may even decide that you want to open the portal for us.

Emma: (Snorting) An attendant like you thinks that you can satisfy me with a mere story? (Lowers her hook and motions with her chin) A cheesy joke won’t be enough. Do not forget that I am someone who commands the Navy.

The Admiral perches on the bed. She then drinks the white wine on the side table like water before cracking a fig and throwing it into her mouth. The man continues to speak.

Jesse: Of course. (Pause) Then please let me ask you a question. For example, do you think that the Almighty God has abandoned the vassal state?

Emma: ……What?

Jesse: I have asked many people about this while staying in this place. I wanted to know the relationship between the Church of the Almighty God and the vassal state. Even the < Biweekly Riester >, which claims to have gossip from around the world, completely excludes the vassal state. I have also never heard the citizens of the Empire talking about the vassal state before. The only thing I know are the short descriptions I have read in history books. I have been thinking that to be weird. Based on what I have seen after coming here, the people of the vassal state try their best every day as well…… The values and culture might be different, but at the core, they are no different from anybody else. I wanted to know why they were excluded from the ‘center of flow.’ I also wanted to know what the people of the vassal state think about this as well.

Emma: (Frowning while swallowing the fig) I knew it would be boring. Let’s just proceed as planned.

The Admiral tries to remove the veil. The man uses quick movements to get out of her reach.

Emma: Are you going to break the deal?

Jesse: No ma’am. Then let me ask it like this. If a war breaks out on the continent, what will you do, Admiral?

Emma: (Twisting her neck) The Empress holds my leash so I suppose I will follow any orders given.

Jesse: (Asking something with deep implications) Would Seigneur Lorenzo tell you to do the same?

The Admiral scowled menacingly. She uses lighting-fast reflexes to rip off the man’s veil. The knight, Johann Geens reveals himself. Only his lips were smiling.

Emma: You bastard.

Johann: I guess I’ve been found out. (He removes the red magic tool ribbon from his mouth) There are quite a lot of fascinating items in the world these days. Don’t you agree, my lady? (“Admiral, Are you listening?” The voice comes out of the ribbon.)

The large window of the room shatters as the Admiral is about to get angry. The sound of the ocean is very loud as if the sea has reached up to the window. Blackout.

*

– Clang!

– Baaaaang!

“Huh?”

I gasped and ran to the window.

I was tightly holding Marquis François’s newest invention, the magic tool ribbon, in my hand.

The Duhem siblings, who had been waiting with me, grabbed the divine beasts and followed me.

Chh! I opened the curtains without any hesitation. The sight in front of me almost made my eyes burst out.

“Wait, we were just talking…… We were going to resolve it with words?”

An unexpected fire was burning in the direction of the Admiral’s bedroom.

—
Translator’s Comments

This was an unexpectedly fun chapter to translate.

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Yellow, red, and blue wallpaper, swirling patterns spinning round and round… Orbs sparkling in all directions and exotic instruments… This was a sight not visible in Riester.

Emma Corleone extended her hooked arm from the highest seat in the room. Marquis François Duhem elegantly kissed her metal hook. Chu. The Admiral intensely gazed at his face and lips. I lowered my head in embarrassment. I thought it was amazing that the Marquis could withstand such a gaze as if it was nothing.

“I heard you used the portal I created in your territory.” The Admiral’s voice was so coarse that I couldn’t help but think that she smoked a lot. “I understand bringing your guard knight and an attendant, but bringing two of your siblings with you…”

The rest of the group had stood there silently after showing our respects. Sir Johann seemed to be suppressing his presence quite a bit, but it was probably because he didn’t want a sharp fighter like the Admiral noticing his identity. We acted as simply as possible as we had planned in advance.

‘Only the Marquis will speak. The rest of us will stay silent.’

“I’m sure they are not here as dowry… Are they witnesses for our marriage?”

“Madam, we have not come here with such intentions,” he Marquis calmly answered.

‘Ho.’ The Admiral scoffed through her teeth. I raised my head slightly to check her face. She was openly showing her discontent. The middle-aged woman bluntly remarked, “How cruel of you. I even threw away my second and third husbands for you.”

‘What……?’ My jaws dropped as I looked toward Maria. The young lady of the House of Duhem’s jaw looked ready to fall off as well.

As a part of the very openly affectionate Corleone vassal state, I never thought that the Admiral would be chaste. Even Maria had called her brother a plaything. However, I never imagined that she would have three husbands. ‘And she threw away two of them!’

“Madam, Thank you ever so much for looking so favorably upon me, but I am here today with a request.”

“My goodness.”

She scowled. I could hear the faint sounds of music and laughter somewhere in the Estate. The Admiral scratched her chest with her hook and changed positions. I quickly looked down after belatedly realizing that she was not wearing anything inside her shirt. Based on what I just saw, all of her buttons were undone as well. ‘Ahh!’

This was so different from the QNW that I had heard about and experienced until now!

“You are playing so hard to get.”

“Madam, as I have explained many times before, I have no desire to be your second husband.”

The Marquis gently answered. The Admiral twitched her scratched eyebrow.

“Is it because you wish to be the first husband? I suppose you have always been one for loyalty. But that guy is an extremely jealous one. It is also hard to throw him away because he comes from a good family,” she answered, as if she was delivering extremely useful information.

I felt like I was watching < The Clinic for Married Couples: Love and War >.

“I will provide adequate compensation if you are willing to fulfill my request, madam.” The Marquis spoke in a formal manner.

It was only then that I realized that he was hiding his true feelings on purpose. He had not shown his usual attention-seeking attitude since coming to the vassal state. If it was anybody else, I would think that this was his true self and the attention seeker was the mask, but François Duhem was different. He was pretending to be calm in order to not show any gaps. ‘It probably means that he wants to maintain his distance from her.’

The Admiral’s half-opened greyish-green eyes scowled.

“If you would allow us to use the Zeboim portal to head to the Imperial Capital, I will advocate for Seigneur Lorenzo’s new trade policy in front of her Majesty.”

“……”

“This will further smooth out trade between Riester and Corleone. I’m sure that would help solidify young master Alessio’s position as well.”

His voice sounded as sweet as honey. I did my best to figure out what was going on.

‘So the Marquis… He has no intention of using himself as leverage.”

This new trade policy seemed to be something that the Seigneur’s son, Alessio, had proposed. He was offering them political support.

I heard that the Admiral grew up being loved by her family and had a great relationship with them.

‘She probably wouldn’t reject a deal that helps her father and her older brother…’

“You wish to use the international portal?”

Flinch. The woman’s tone was sharp. She almost sounded as if she was mocking him. I nervously looked up at her.

‘I wonder what the issue is? Isn’t it a decent offer for a single use of the portal?’

It was also for a Pair de Riester whose identity was completely verified. Corleone would not lose out in any way with this deal.

“Zeboim has been in quite the turmoil the last few days.”

“……”

I suddenly got the chills.

“There’s a shady thug, a master-less pirate ship, and now a Marquis of the Empire asking for my help to cross the border…”

The Admiral motioned toward us with her chin. I did my best to quiet my gulp. I didn’t know much about what was going on, but it was quite chaotic here too.

“It is a great offer, but something seems off based on the timing. Tsk.” She clicked her tongue and picked up a cigar box from a corner of her seat.

François reacted immediately. He pulled out an expensive matchbox from his pocket before lighting it with a natural movement that resembled flowing water.

Tap! Chhhh……

“You even know how to flatter.”

The Admiral teased him. The Marquis gently curled his light pink eyes.

Today I learned that it takes extremely long to light a cigar.

‘The match is very long as well.’

“Please simply consider this as courtesy.”

“You also know how to play coy.”

She bit down on the cigar and smiled at the Marquis. I didn’t know why, but this seemed extremely dangerous. I couldn’t help but touch my veil. ‘Please let things go well, please.’

“It is suspicious that a Pair de Riester, someone who could request an audience with her Majesty at any time, is trying to go through Zeboim like this.”

Her voice became chillingly low. My eyes opened wide.

“Madam.”

“Don’t you dare think about using me.”

The Admiral sharply cut him off. ‘Huuuuuu.’ A thick puff of cigar smoke flew out.

Maria and I held our breaths. It would be great if Sir Johann helped us out, but he could not use his powers right now.

“I was going to hold you in my arms because your face of sorrow looked so beautiful, but…”

“……”

“All you are thinking about is how to use my goodwill for your own benefit.”

Her voice sounded as scary as boiling lava because of her gloomy voice and the sound of her chewing on the cigar. A strong pressure made me feel suffocated. It wasn’t as strong as the pressure from a sword master the Empress released toward me, but it felt much less controlled. I looked at Captain Hervé, who was withstanding it from the front, with an anxious gaze.

‘Wouldn’t it be better to reveal my identity and honestly ask for help? No…… We decided to let the Marquis handle it. Let’s just stay quiet.’

“Madam, this is a misunderstanding.”

“This fox-like cunning look of yours isn’t bad either, but the way you cried after losing your parents was much more beautiful.”

I could feel Maria tensing up. I urgently turned my head. ‘What did she just-’

“You were such an obedient boy when we spread the ashes across the Sea of Silence. Has it already been around twenty years since then?”

“……”

The Marquis’ fingertips were faintly shaking. Captain Hervé slowly clenched his fists. I opened and closed my mouth without being able to say anything in shock and disbelief. ‘That- Something like that is too much.’

“It is I who wishes that you do not misunderstand the situation. I like this current determined look of yours as well. However, I am different from your master.” Her rough voice continued. Her algae-like dark eyes looked cruelly mischievous. The Admiral raised the Marquis’ chin with her hook. This was clearly a provocation. “When someone acts up like this in front of me to protect something, I want to break them.”

“……”

“It makes me want to see them weak and sobbing.”

She laughed while blowing out some smoke. I clenched my teeth. I knew that this was a lowly provocation to get a reaction and see through his intentions. I knew that, but…

“If you do not wish to do so, send one of your younger siblings to my bedroom. Then I will open the portal for you.”

“My goodness.”

Captain Hervé turned pale and hugged Maria. I couldn’t help but shout in anger.

“Excuse me!”

I felt like I heard Sir Johann groaning behind me. The Admiral turned toward me as if she had been waiting for this. François turned toward me completely pale. ‘I’m sorry.’

“Couldn’t you just ask the reason? You could have just asked why he needs the portal or what was going on. Why are you digging through his wounds and making him suffer? Threatening him would be better than this.”

“……You are the rumored widower.” She mumbled.

Maria was holding onto her second brother’s waist as she looked back and forth at the Admiral and myself. I almost stomped past them, grabbed François’s arm, and headed down the steps.

‘Your highness?’ He urgently whispered but I pretended not to hear him. I decided to keep being angry since I already started.

“I do not know what happened in the past, but it doesn’t seem like you are the Marquis’ lover, Admiral. If it is only a one-sided relationship, I can’t sit by and watch even as an outsider.”

“Hoooo.”

“Even if you are used to loveless acts, you are the worst for demanding one of his younger siblings. They are siblings who care for each other. They can’t make such a decision as easily as if offering a sacrifice. As foreigners with different cultural values, you should at least have a modicum of respect.”

“I see.”

“I do not expect an apology from you. These three will never agree to something like that. So please give……”

“You are right.”

I flinched. The Admiral smiled as she bit on her cigar. I suddenly got goosebumps. I quickly covered the Duhem siblings and Sir Johann sighed before standing in front of me. The formation had completely flipped. The middle-aged woman scoffed.

“I’m intrigued.”

I stood on tippy-toes to look past the Holy Knight’s shoulder.

“Why don’t we calmly discuss things, Admiral? We request your cooperation. We are ready to provide adequate compensation. If you are unable to trust the Marquis, we can also give you a full explanation.”

“No. I have a better idea.” She instantly cut me off. This woman really did as she pleased. Despite both of them growing up as precious young ladies now in power, she had a completely different personality than Empress Frédérique. She always sought out the greatest of stimulations, got bored of things easily, and did not care about being tactful around anybody. She listened only to what she wanted to hear and said whatever she wanted to say. She feared nothing and lived a life with no obstacles. She only lived a life full of affection and awe.

A spoiled thug.

“Let me make you an offer you cannot refuse.”

The Admiral slowly looked me up and down. The stinging scent of smoke swirled around me. I kept my eyes open despite the pain and did not step back.

*

That night…

“Over there! Scaramuccia went that way!”

“Get him! Run!”

“The Captain has given his orders! Run!”

“Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!” The city guards shouted as they ran.

The residents of the vassal state watched the guards in confusion before realizing that there wasn’t much going on and disappeared into the darkness.

‘Scaramuccia’ sighed underneath the shadow of the moon. He would have personally pulled out his sword to teach them a lesson if they were the Imperial Guard or the Garrison for the Imperial Capital. It would have continued until they properly learned their lesson. However, this was not his home country.

– Squeeeeee

“Quiet.”

– Pruu

“I’m very much aware.”

The divine beasts dangling on his wide shoulders each made a comment. They were saying this was not the place. However, the young man could not give up. He had not felt the prince’s ether in Seigneur Lorenzo’s castle, which was located on the southern part of the island. That meant that there was only one place for the prince’s group to ask for permission to use the portal. The Imperial Crown Prince’s jewel-like eyes underneath the mask looked up as he stared at the estate at the top of the island. They were too far from him to sense anything.

‘Casa di Corleone.’

– Piiiii

The divine item in Cédric’s arm chirped.

He quietly looked down at Percy de Riester before making a comment.

“I’m sure you are aware that you still sound the same.”

– ……

The crow completely ignored him.

He was aware of the divine item’s ability to transform, but he had no idea that it could transform into other birds. However, it did not seem to have much experience as it could not caw like a crow. It just did this useless transformation to make itself heavier for no reason……

“The attendant! She is going to bring the attendant to her bedroom later!”

“What?! Not that handsome Marquis of the Empire?!”

The crown prince quickly turned his head. He could hear the excited voices outside the alley.

“I heard it directly from the coachman’s cousin’s wife’s boyfriend. An attendant wearing a black veil came with the Marquis but he was so bold that the Signora fell for him right away. He is apparently that amazing. His blonde hair resembled the sun of Admah!”

“Wow, then will the first husband finally be thrown away?”

The divine beasts stuck their tongues out in shock. A man with a bold personality, blonde hair, and disguised as the attendant of a Marquis from the Empire… It was clearly talking about the prince. Crunch… The black glove tightly clenched on the Sword of Wisdom.

If he was going to make a senseless deal to use the portal…

Flinch.

The crown prince glared in the opposite direction. He could not believe what he had just sensed. It was extremely faint, but the presence was clear. It was a firm and clear power of water that was different from the winter sea.

“……”

‘Christelle de Sarnez?’

—
Translator’s Comments

The coachman’s cousin’s wife’s boyfriend can’t be wrong. A blondie? OUR BLONDIE?!!!

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It was late into the night at Zeboim. The younger sibling island’s chilly weather was bringing in some sleet as well.

Swoooosh……

– Slam!

“Donna Corleone! That person has appeared again! S, Scaramuccia has appeared!” The door opened and a young man ran in before bowing in front of the Admiral.

The woman, who was seated on the highest seat in the room while looking over a document, nonchalantly looked down at him. His back underneath the thick leather coat rose and fell with his labored breathing. Emma Corleone could tell that this heavy breathing was from fear and not exhaustion.

It was pathetic.

“What is his objective?”

“E, excuse me?”

The middle-aged woman spoke in a blunt tone. Her subordinate didn’t dare raise his eyes and he nervously licked his lips. He needed to properly inform her about the situation, but his mind went blank and his limbs started shaking whenever he was in front of the signora. He was like this even after a year of serving her.

One of his seniors, who had seen the Empress of the continent from a distance, compared the presence of the two like this:

‘It felt like her Majesty would instantly cut me down if I did something evil. She is a swordswoman with an unbelievable spirit. On the other hand, our signora, she is someone who would throw anybody to be food for the demonic beasts if she doesn’t like them.’

“That man should have an objective.” The signora asked again. It was already the second time.

He might end up in the cold winter ocean if he did not answer. The subordinate quickly answered.

“Signora, Scaramuccia apparently does not answer even when someone talks to him. He simply beats them up. He used a bard’s guitar to knock a customer unconscious in a restaurant today. According to the victim, the man’s accent seemed to be that of someone from the Empire……”

“He entered the vassal state illegally?”

“That is one hypothesis, signora. However, he is so strong that even the city guards cannot handle him. They have failed to arrest him multiple times.”

“Then I guess we have to replace the city guards.”

The Admiral mumbled in a low voice. The subordinate gulped. It was hard to differentiate between her jokes and serious remarks.

– Click.

The woman opened a cigar box. One of the marines guarding her side quickly lit a cedar wick and offered it up.

Chhhhh, crack crack……

“Huu……”

Only the sound of the burning cigar and the heavy scent of smoke filled the room for a bit. The air turned hazy. The young subordinate did not dare to move and stayed bowed on the ground. He could not think about leaving the room before he had her permission.

After ten minutes that felt like eternity, the Admiral bit down on the cigar and slowly opened her mouth.

“The ones who were beat up were all thugs.”

“Y, yes, signora. However, looking at it from their point of view, they think that it is not right for a foreigner to pummel citizens of our vassal state like that…… Which is why they reported him.”

“……”

“Some of them feel wronged as well. They simply hit on pretty women as usual but some punk came over and attacked them.” The subordinate bit down on his tongue as he barely managed to explain.

Scaramuccia was a delinquent who only appeared in Zeboim starting three or four days ago. There was a simple reason he instantly got a nickname and became famous. This tall man with a large crow on his shoulder covered his eyes with a black mask, wore an expensive fur coat and an ebony cape, and used his unbelievable strength to cause chaos around the streets. Some claimed he was a villain who would be cursed and were begging the Admiral for her help. However, someone else testified that the man helped her child out of a dangerous situation.

Although Admiral Corleone was not officially a citizen of the vassal state, the commoners still came to her for help whenever they faced trouble. Unlike Seigneur Lorenzo or his eldest son, both people they were not likely to meet in their lifetime, the young lady was someone who always protected them. She was the MVP who avenged them and helped them recoup the debts owed to them.

“Signora, we do have to capture Scaramuccia. There may be copycats if he continues to run wild in the streets.”

The subordinate gathered up his courage to say that. The Admiral’s gaze sank down. She had seen hoodlums like this multiple times in her life.

‘A Vigilante Corp.’

Youngsters with a sense of justice were unable to control their hot-blooded natures and acted recklessly.

“Send the Captain of the City Guard. We have other problems if even the Captain is unable to capture this man.”

“……Yes ma’am.”

“And don’t inform my father. He is busy enough as is.”

“As you command.”

The man slowly got up. The spurs on the Admiral’s boots sparkled viciously.

“And what of that pirate ship?”

He flinched at the question. Now that he thought about it, there was that issue as well. The subordinate quickly bowed down on the ground again.

“That issue is not a part of my jurisdiction, but…… I heard that it is not moving at all, signora. It is not an issue of the anchor but the seabed under the ship is completely frozen. They are unable to move the ship at all.”

“Has the ice spread to the coastline?”

“No, signora.”

“Then why is that ship frozen?”

“That…… We also believe that it makes no sense, but…” He had nothing else to offer. The subordinate looked miserable as trouble happened in multiple locations at the same time. He was sure that the faces of his peers, who were outside waiting for their turn, were similar to his own.

A pirate ship had suddenly appeared on the shores of Zeboim a few days ago. However, it had no flag and it did not attack. The vassal state’s coast guard had tilted their heads at this unexplainable situation. Most pirates were handled by the Margrave at the north of the Empire and this was not the time for pirates to head down here to avoid the cold. Furthermore, they had searched the ship as soon as the ship docked, but they did not find much. There were blankets and signs of a fire, but no crew.

“There are talks of it being a ghost ship……”

‘Huuuuuu.’ The Admiral let out a long breath of smoke. The subordinate clenched his eyes shut.

Within the seas of the Empire and the vassal state, their signora was the one who was called the Master of the Ghost Ship. Talking about ghosts in front of someone who had gone in and out of the dangers of death for over twenty years? It was an extremely shabby excuse.

“Umm, the commoners have come up with the story because it was chilling how only the area around that ship has frozen.”

“That fool you mentioned earlier.”

“Excuse me? Do you mean Scaramuccia?” The subordinate slightly raised his head. The Admiral flicked the cigar in her left hand.

“Is it not his ship?”

“Ah……”

The man gasped like a fool before lowering his head.

Nobody had thought about that despite it being so easy to connect. The mysterious man and the ship had appeared only days of each other but they had not considered it because the issues of the city guards and the coast guard rarely overlapped.

The Admiral was aware of that as well. She continued to speak.

“Capture that Scaramuccia or scarabèo or whatnot and interrogate him about the pirate ship.”

“Yes, signora.”

“Once everything is resolved, burn the ship down. I don’t want to see the weaklings crying because they are scared of it.”

“As you command, signora,” he subordinate quickly answered.

Her tone was rough but the Admiral was worried about the residents being scared. Sailors believed that running into a ghost ship would lead to disaster. As their islands heavily relied on fishing and trade, basically nothing was scarier than shipwreck.

– Slam!

“Donna Corleone!”

Another subordinate ran in and bowed. Unlike the first subordinate, this person had a bright look on her face.

“Marquis François Duhem of Riester has left Admah and has arrived at the portal in Zeboim. He will arrive at the Estate in one hour.”

“That is welcomed news,” he Admiral answered.

The soldiers chuckled after hearing the joy in her voice. The second subordinate was all smiles as she added on.

“You will like the people he is with as well, signora. According to the message from Luchana, the little young master of the March has grown into a formidable handsome man. The young man who came as his guard knight is as elegant as a lily. The second young lady is now twenty years old and is strong and full of life, with people saying that just seeing her lifts their spirits.”

Laughter broke out in the room. The corners of the Signora’s lips slightly twitched.

The report did not end there.

“However, there are rumors of a great beauty being with them. A widower in a black veil that came as an attendant……”

“Ahem!”

“Hey there!”

The crowd reprimanded her for talking about a widower that way. Some were exchanging stealthy glances. The Admiral silently looked down at her subordinate.

The woman, to meet their expectations, used all sorts of hand and feet gestures as she explained.

“Apparently this unparalleled handsome man has golden hair that shines like the sun of Admah with white skin and pretty eyelashes. His lips are as desirable as ripe cherries. Some people saw his face after a mischievous seabird pulled off his veil and they caused all sorts of issues gathering at Villa Corleone after that.”

A portion of the group looked full of desire after hearing the explanation. The room was buzzing.

The Admiral spoke curtly. “I feel pity for his deceased wife.”

“Wahahaha!”

“Hahaha!”

They couldn’t tell whether she was joking or being serious, but everybody laughed as the Signora seemed to be in a decent mood. Despite all of these unexpected situations, she was about to get a second husband. This was an extremely great day.

“Send them in as soon as they are ready.”

“Yes, Signora!”

The subordinate respectfully bowed. The Admiral sucked on the cigar so much that her cheeks pushed in.

*

‘The two islands are this far apart but they are part of the same nation and called twin islands? If you compare it to Korea, it’s like considering Jeju Island and Incheon to be in the same neighborhood.’

Considering the distance, this was much farther than anything in Korea. The reason the vassal state was able to maintain the same culture in both islands was because of the ancient portal that connected the two islands together. I was once again amazed by the unbelievable setting of a fantasy world as I walked. Thankfully, I was not tired because I slept well after arriving at Zeboim.

‘I also rested for three days before that.’

“Right this way. Signore, Signora!”

Luchana, who we met at the portal four days ago, was our guide on this island. There was a new flower in the woman’s hair. Marquis François and Captain Hervé walked in the front with Maria and I behind them. Sir Johann was guarding us from the rear.

I looked out the window to take in the views of Zeboim.

‘Casa di Corleone,’ the Admiral’s home and office, was located right by the sparkling sea.

– Step, step

– Shaaaaaaaaaaa……

– Step step

The sounds of the waves mixed with the footsteps.

Unlike Admah, which was located south of Riester, Zeboim was to the east. It was closest to Christelle’s Sarnez Duchy if looking at it in a straight line. You would also reach Sérénité’s free city, Haas, if you set sails to the south. It was also cold here because it was as far up north as the Imperial Capital. I thought that it was the perfect weather to catch hypothermia when I got here through the portal last night. The late December ocean breeze cut at your skin.

“We are here. The Signora is so benevolent. She was willing to wait until the morning for you, Marquis, because she thought you would be tired after arriving so late at night,” Luchana jested while wearing a luxurious demonic beast fur coat.

I did my best not to get nervous as I looked up at the large wooden door. The splendid coat of arms of the House of Corleone was located top and center, resembling a Christmas ornament. Now that I thought about it, yesterday was Christmas. That day meant nothing in this world, but…

‘I guess I’m pretty relaxed now since I can have random thoughts like this.’

“Thank you. I will personally show my gratitude to the Admiral.” Marquis François answered elegantly while using his mace for support. He looked like a completely different person than what we were used to in the Empire.

Luchana nodded her head and pushed the door open.

– Click!

Creeeeeak……

I checked my veil one last time, thinking about Demy and Tithé who were still playing on the bed as well as our friends who were waiting for us back in Riester. I also thought about my family back home.

I should be able to safely arrive at the Imperial Palace if conversation went well here. Then I would be able to meet my teacher, clear my name, and survive once more. I may be able to return home one day as well.

“Please head on in.”

The woman spoke, almost in a whisper. We entered into the Admiral’s reception room. The room was dimly lit and I caught a strong scent of tobacco that I had not sniffed since transmigrating to this world. The curtains and lights ranged in size and shapes.

I frowned out of reflex.

The smell was overwhelming as I had no experience smoking, but this was so unfamiliar. The almost offensive displays of affection of the people here was an issue and it was hard to believe that this was also a part of the QNW world……

“Ah.”

I quietly gasped. ‘Maybe-’

“You are still just as beautiful, François Duhem.” I heard a voice as rough as sandpaper.

“Madam Corleone.”

The Marquis did his elegant Empire-styled greeting toward the woman seated on the highest seat.

My thoughts stopped for a moment. I felt like I made eye contact with her right before I urgently bowed.

“……”

Her sharp greyish-green eyes were half closed. I saw a large scar on her right cheek. The way she had her shirt buttons unbuttoned at the top was definitely in the way of the Corleone style but she had a white Imperial uniform draped over her shoulders. Her thick dreadlocks flowed down to the bottom of her back. There was a black hook where her right hand used to be.

‘The Hooked Sea Villainess.’

“We greet Admiral Emma Corleone.” We greeted her.

A low snort followed.

—
Translator’s Comments

Captain Hook’s lover???

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