The Queen Who Deserves To Be Tainted - Chapter 32.1

Finally, Elfreda approached, her face tense as she greeted them.

“I greet the sun of Machi.”

“I greet the beautiful moon.”

The elderly scholars greeted Elfreda in succession, and she forced a smile while still looking nervous. Ejnar introduced them.

“These are the professors from the ancient Machi department at the Royal Academy. I believe this is the first time the Queen is meeting them.”

“Yes.”

Nodding, she gathered her trembling heart and spoke briefly.

“I’ve heard that your contributions have been significant in making today’s event possible. As the Queen of Machi, I thank you for your efforts to preserve the precious history of Machi for generations to come.”

Ejnar’s eyes gleamed.

Her demeanor was truly regal, and he couldn’t help but smile in satisfaction. The professors, perhaps sensing his thoughts, also bowed their heads with softened expressions.

“It’s only possible because of the support of His Majesty the King.”

“Still, it would have been difficult without your passion.”

Elfreda continued in a gentle voice.

“I’m quite nervous about giving a speech at such an important occasion today, but I will do my best not to bring any shame to the ancient Machi language.”

“You’ve only been learning for a short time, so it’s impressive that you’re attempting this. It’s certainly not an easy language.”

“Yes. That’s why I feel a heavy sense of responsibility.”

“It might be best to take our leave now. It’s about time to start the opening ceremony.”

Ejnar interjected at just the right moment, and Elfreda nodded, saying her goodbyes to the professors before following him.

As they walked side by side to their designated spots, he quietly asked her.

“Are you still not thinking of giving up?”

“After coming this far?”

Elfreda looked at him as if he was saying something absurd, and Ejnar responded nonchalantly.

“The embarrassment of quitting now would be less than the shame of not doing well.”

That was certainly true.

Even though she agreed with that thought, she had no intention of giving up.

“I’ve worked hard to prepare.”

Knowing this only made Ejnar more irritated. In the end, he chose not to say anything further and sat with Elfreda in their designated spot for the opening ceremony. One of the Machi professors took charge of the proceedings.

“I’m very pleased that a space where all the history of this land comes to life has finally been established.”

He was also the scholar who had written the speech for Elfreda.

Today, the elderly professor, wearing an excited expression, passionately explained the significance and value of the Royal Library. However, most of the nobles treated the event as if it were just another social gathering, paying little attention to the professor’s long-winded explanations. Aside from a few interested nobles and those directly involved in the project, many seemed to be struggling to stay awake.

In the midst of it all, Ejnar quietly watched Elfreda, who listened to the professor’s speech with sparkling eyes. Despite the tedious and lengthy presentation, she appeared so focused that it was almost admirable.

Ejnar kept his gaze on Elfreda, a faint smile on his face. At some point, she sensed his stare and turned her head.

Their eyes met.

Elfreda looked puzzled by his smiling expression, unsure why he was staring at her like that. He thought she would instinctively look away first, but instead, she continued to meet his gaze, which made Ejnar flinch. Ultimately, he was the one to turn away.

Wondering if something was wrong with her appearance, she discreetly checked herself. Finding nothing amiss, she turned her attention back to the front.

‘…Suddenly.’