Brat had been made to promise not to overwork himself, and as a reward for his efforts, he was sometimes given delicious sweets and meals.
He had been spoiled beyond measure.
His body had felt heavy, but his heart had been nothing but happy.
He had been able to keep going because of him.
He had been able to endure hardship because of him.
Even without blood ties, Qiong Xing was his family.
No, now his sister was here as well, and although not family, Sergei was also by his side.
"…He will treat you the same regardless of whether you become king or not. But if you call him Mother in earnest, then gain strength. Strength enough to protect him. Strength enough to silence anyone who speaks against you."
Sergei had likely noticed it as well.
Qiong Xing was kind.
Some might even call him overly gentle and almost naive.
But how many people in this world could truly remain that way?
