CHAPTER 131: RAGAN’S TANTALIZING OFFER

"So, one of the Singularity of Chaos’ subordinates showed up not because of you, but on their own?"

In his study, Ragan looked at Elina with a deep frown.

Sitting across from him, Elina gave a small nod and replied honestly, "Yes, Father. I really don’t know anything about it. Like I said, I have no connection at all with the Singularity of Chaos. Even now, I have no idea why he’s protecting me."

Truthfully, she still didn’t know what the Singularity of Chaos wanted. They had never met, never spoken, and never even exchanged a glance.

Ragan fell silent for a moment but didn’t push her any further.

If anyone in this world knew Elina best, it was him—without a doubt.

He had been there from the moment she was born, watching her grow up right before his eyes.

Still, part of him hoped she was lying—for the sake of the Empire, to somehow create a connection with the Singularity of Chaos.

But it seemed that was just wishful thinking.

Letting out a long sigh, he lowered his gaze and said, "Alright, I get it, Elina. And... I’m sorry I wasn’t able to protect you in time. If that subordinate of the Singularity hadn’t shown up, you and your brother might have..."

He didn’t finish the sentence, but Elina understood. Her father was right.

If it weren’t for that young man, she and her brother would’ve been dead.

After all, the one attacking them was the Singularity of Light—a being who stood at the very pinnacle of this world.

Stopping his assault was impossible, unless faced by someone of equal strength—like the Singularity of Chaos.

Shaking her head softly, Elina smiled reassuringly and said, "Don’t feel guilty, Father. I understand how difficult the situation is. You were even willing to declare war on the Holy Empire of Valtanir for my brother and me. That alone is more than enough to show how much you care for us."

To be honest, she was still shocked by her father’s declaration of war. If it had truly come to that, the consequences would have been unimaginable.

Fortunately, that disaster was avoided—thanks to the Singularity of Chaos, who had once again come to her rescue.

The Singularity of Chaos, huh? Who are you, really? Why did you help me? Elina wondered in silence.

Her thoughts drifted back to the moment he appeared—during the attack of a Catastrophe-Level Dragon in the palace square.

He was tall, masked, and wrapped in a black cloak that hid every trace of his identity, exuding an air of deep mystery.

It was as if an invisible wall surrounded him—one that no one could cross. That image had been etched deep into her heart.

But what lingered most in her mind wasn’t his appearance—it was the uncanny sense of familiarity, as if they had always been close, even though they were complete strangers.

Ragan exhaled a quiet breath of relief and smiled once more.

"That’s good to hear, Elina," he said softly. "By the way, I’m truly grateful to you. Do you remember the city of Tashuk—the one I requested from the Singularity of Light? If not, let me explain. It’s a key city in the northern region that once belonged to us but was unilaterally taken by the Holy Empire of Valtanir."

"I’ve tried countless times to reclaim it, but always failed. Now, it’s finally returning to us. And it’s all thanks to the Singularity of Chaos. But I know this wouldn’t have happened without your involvement. So if there’s a reward you want, just say the word. Even if..."

Ragan’s eyes narrowed slightly as he continued, "...even if the reward is removing one of your brothers from the fight for the throne—I’m willing to do it. What do you say? Tempting, isn’t it?"

Elina’s heart skipped a beat. Her body stiffened, and cold sweat trickled down her neck.

Is he testing me? The thought came instantly—but she pushed it aside just as fast.

That was impossible. Her father, the Emperor, would never test her like that. It wasn’t just unnecessary—there was no reason or benefit in doing so.

She fell silent for a moment before finally taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly.

"No, Father. I don’t need any reward from you," she replied flatly. "As I’ve said before, I am the princess of this empire. It’s my duty to help solve the problems it faces. And as for eliminating other contenders in the succession... forget it. I don’t want this succession tainted by your interference."

Don’t ever think that the loss of a participant would be beneficial. Quite the opposite—it could be disastrous, especially for her.

Take Zarak, for example. If she asked for his removal, the public might see it as a sign that her chances of claiming the throne had drastically improved.

But in reality, her chances wouldn’t improve at all—not even close.

Getting rid of Zarak would mean turning the Red Obsidian Trading House into an enemy.

With their vast power and resources, it wouldn’t be surprising if one of the other princes—like Aldric, Cedric, or Adalen—sought an alliance with them to eliminate her and avenge Zarak.

If that happened, Elina would be in a difficult position. She could even be removed from the succession... just like Zarak.

Ragan was briefly stunned, then gave a faint smile. "Are you sure, Elina?"

"I’m sure, Father," Elina replied firmly. "I don’t need it."

"Pfft!" Ragan let out a chuckle he couldn’t hold back. His eyes sparkled with admiration as he looked at his daughter. "You really are something, Elina. Honestly... you’re nothing like your brothers."

Had it been any of the others—Aldric, Adalen, or Zarak—they would’ve jumped at the chance.

After all, opportunities like this don’t come twice.

But Elina was different—smart and careful. Ragan understood the reason behind her refusal, and that was exactly why he felt proud.

"Very well," Ragan said with a soft smile. "I’ll respect your choice. But my offer still stands. If you ever need it, just say the word—I’ll keep my promise."

A quiet warmth bloomed in Elina’s chest. Since childhood, her father had always appeared stern and unyielding.

But that was only natural—he was the Emperor, burdened with the weight of an empire.

Even so, he had always been warm and caring in his own way, just like any father.

In truth, his affection for her and her brother far surpassed that for his other children. It showed in the way he constantly tolerated her brother’s rebellious behavior, even from a young age.

A gentle smile formed on her once-cold face. "Thank you, Father."

***

Elina stepped out of Ragan’s study with a faint smile on her lips. But then, she suddenly felt a sharp gaze from the side.

Instinctively, she turned her head—and saw Clarisse, along with Adalen, standing there.

"Brother Adalen... and Mother Clarisse?" She murmured in mild surprise before offering a polite greeting. "Good evening, you two."

Clarisse’s expression immediately turned cold, though she still returned the greeting. "Good evening, Elina. Is your father inside?"

"Yes, he is. I was just speaking with him about a few matters," Elina replied politely. "Anyway, he said he was expecting you."

Clarisse gave a curt nod, then opened the door and stepped inside.

Adalen followed, but not before shooting Elina a sharp glare before disappearing into the room.