117 We Finally Mee (2/2)

”I've been observing you because of my doubts regarding your identity.”

”I've been helping you because you were entrusted to me by someone else.”

”I want the same thing that person wants; to help you grow fast enough to soon overthrow the von Jurgen dynasty alongside us, however, our goals are different. I want the empire for myself. She wants it for the Infernal Cult and the Barbarian Continent.

As for who that person is, that is another question. But I suppose you're smart enough to figure that out on your own.”

That Else was somehow connected to the Barbarian Continent was astonishing news. However, thinking about it, Konrad was not that surprised. Unlike the other sovereign prince houses, the Metze were not Uradels. The reason was that although their house was ancient, they'd only joined the Holy Flame Empire three thousand years ago.

Before that, the Metze served under the Northern Barbarian King. However, due to a clash between Else's grandfather and the Northern Barbarian King of that time, house Metze defected and submitted to the Holy Flame Empire, opening the road for devastating attacks.

As per their deal, Else's grandfather was allowed to keep his vast lands, ennobled, and the Metze became the empire's third princely house. However, that didn't mean they'd cut off all connections to their roots. The church had always suspected them to be spies of the Infernal Cult and tried to suppress them in any way possible.

However, with their deep foundation, it wasn't a simple task.

As for who the identity of that person Else mentioned. Besides Konrad's mother, who else could it be?

With a wave of his hand, Konrad sent Jasmine into the space mansion.

”Since you first gave me three questions, I suppose you also want to ask me something?”

”True, but I only have one.”

Else didn't beat around the bush, but as she spoke, her tone chilled, and vast pressure erupted from her body, locking Konrad from all sides.

”Who the hell are you?”

There it came, from the moment he became aware of her interest in him, Konrad dreaded this day. Unfortunately, it came before he was fully prepared. However, unwilling to reveal flaws, and fearing a last probe, he displayed a surprised look.

”What do you mean by that?”

”No need to act before me. Since I answered you with honesty, you should at least reciprocate.”

Else began while intensifying the pressure around Konrad and scanning him from her blue slit eyes.

”You're lucky that in his short time within the imperial palace, Konrad didn't contact many. However, anyone that knew him a little would see the inconsistencies.

And unfortunately for you, I've been by his side since he was seven. I dare say that even his mother didn't necessarily know him better than I did.

Konrad was timid. You are gregarious.

Konrad was gentle and couldn't hurt a fly. You are cruel and don't hesitate to slaughter.

Konrad possessed a selfless, righteous heart. You are selfish and wicked.

Though endowed with peerless looks, he couldn't endure women's attention and always stammered in their presence. You pluck them like you've been doing this for decades.

He loves cats. You hate them.

I could go on for an entire day. With such overwhelming differences, you still dare claim to be him?”