As Isha had suggested, inspecting the border was a perfect excuse for a work-related date.

Leon and Rosvisser set off early in the morning, leaving Ana to manage clan affairs during the Queen’s absence.

It took roughly four hours to travel from the Silver Dragon territory to the Flame Dragon Clan, given Rosvisser’s speed.

Upon reaching the Flame Dragon Clan’s border, Rosvisser cast an invisibility spell.

“The border is completely unguarded,” Leon remarked from Rosvisser’s back as he looked down. “Have they given up on defending it?”

“Exactly. After a Dragon King falls, it often takes years for the clan to recover,” Rosvisser explained. “Besides, the Flame Dragons made too many enemies before Constantine’s death. Now that he’s gone, everyone’s rushing to take advantage.”

“Huh, so the Flame Dragon Clan is in bad shape,” Leon observed.

“And who’s responsible for taking down their leader?” Rosvisser teased.

Leon grinned. “Yours truly!”

“Tsk, idiot,” she scoffed.

With a burst of speed, Rosvisser accelerated deeper into the Flame Dragon Clan’s territory.

By the afternoon, the two landed in a forest.

Rosvisser pulled out a map, a simple one that Shirley had drawn during a reconnaissance mission.

“We’re close to the Flame Dragon Clan’s headquarters now, but I doubt there will be many people there,” Rosvisser said. “Let’s rest here in the forest for now and wait for nightfall.”

“Hmm… But how are we supposed to find Constantine’s confidant?” Leon asked. “When you probed Maureen’s memories, you only saw a vague figure, right?”

“The appearance was unclear, but his body shape was distinct,” Rosvisser clarified. “And since he was Constantine’s trusted aide, he won’t be able to keep a low profile with the internal power struggle and external threats. Finding him shouldn’t be too difficult.”

Leon nodded thoughtfully. “I see.”

While Leon excelled in dragon slaying and catching traitors, when it came to political intrigue and power struggles, Rosvisser clearly had more expertise.

The two continued chatting as they found a large, leafy tree with branches high enough for a good vantage point.

Rosvisser led Leon to the top of the ancient tree. The thick leaves offered perfect cover, and the elevated position would allow them to detect any movement below.

“So, once we find him, do you have a plan to make him talk?” Rosvisser asked as she leaned against the tree.

Leon sat cross-legged across from her. “Of course. I might not get the whole dragon political scene, but I’m pretty good at getting people to spill their secrets.”

Rosvisser crossed her arms, smirking. “Really now? Just remember, mind-probing magic only works if there’s a significant power gap between the two parties. Otherwise, the target will resist.”

“No problem. This time, I’m going for psychological warfare.”

Rosvisser raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Psychological warfare? Do tell.”

Leon smiled mysteriously. “I’ll tell you tonight.”

“Tch, keeping secrets now, are we?” Rosvisser rolled her eyes and yawned lazily.

“Why don’t you take a nap? You’ve been flying all day. I’ll wake you when it’s time,” Leon offered.

“And sleep against this rough, cold tree trunk?” Rosvisser replied with a hint of mock indignation.

It wasn’t that she couldn’t sleep like that—she wasn’t that delicate. But with a better option available, why settle?

Leon caught the mischievous look on Rosvisser’s face. She was hinting heavily, and he couldn’t play dumb any longer.

With a reluctant sigh, General Leon stood up, walked over to her, and sat down beside her.

No words were needed. The Queen didn’t hold back in the slightest as she shifted to rest against his shoulder.

Much better than a tree trunk.

The moral of the story? If you’re going to find a fake husband, make sure he’s well-built—it makes for a comfy pillow!

Rosvisser’s soft body pressed up against Leon, and the gentle fragrance of her hair filled his nose.

But her weight on his arm… it was starting to get uncomfortable. He wasn’t sure where to place it.

Sensing his discomfort, Rosvisser opened one eye and softly said, “Just put it wherever it’s most comfortable.”

“Ehhh…”

Both of them knew perfectly well what would make this position more comfortable.

Rosvisser had already given her approval, allowing Leon to adjust. Yet, Leon hesitated, feeling awkward.

Realizing his reluctance, Rosvisser muttered, “Idiot,” before lifting his arm herself and placing it around her, resting his hand on her shoulder.

Then, she leaned back, fully enjoying her human pillow.

With her nestled in his arms, her soft back pressed against him, and her fragrant hair just inches from his face… Wasn’t this a bit too intimate?

And this was from a man who had already fathered three children with her.

Ah, forget it. Doesn’t matter. She’s the one who asked me to do this—I’m just following orders.

Leon adjusted to make sure Rosvisser was as comfortable as possible, all while keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings.

---

As night fell, the moonlight illuminated the area, aiding Leon and Rosvisser.

In the distance, flickering flames surrounded the Flame Dragon Clan’s headquarters.

The two of them crouched on the treetop, watching by the light of the moon.

“Those don’t look like Flame Dragons,” Rosvisser noted. “They’re probably outsiders seeking revenge.”

“So where did the Flame Dragon remnants go? Are they hiding?” Leon asked.

Rosvisser shook her head. “Hiding would mean surrendering their territory. Even with Constantine dead, his followers wouldn’t do that. They’re likely lurking in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to strike. With no Dragon King to mediate, any conflict or war could turn disastrous. They’ll need to be cautious.”

“Ahh, got it,” Leon said.

They continued to observe.

Over the next forty minutes, more and more flames appeared, and the sound of footsteps and voices grew louder.

The dragons seeking revenge weren’t trying to obliterate the Flame Dragon Clan completely—otherwise, they would have sent a larger force. They mostly seemed to be trying to provoke them, pushing while the Flame Dragons were down.

Unable to find any Flame Dragons, the invaders began attacking the clan’s temples and buildings, and the sound of magical explosions filled the air.

Soon after, cries and the clashing of weapons followed.

“They’re finally here. Let’s go check it out. If we’re lucky, we might find him right away,” Rosvisser said.

“Wait,” Leon grabbed her arm.

“What’s wrong?”

“I’ll go alone. You stay here and wait.”

Rosvisser raised an eyebrow, smiling mischievously. “Worried I’ll get hurt?”

“We’ll talk about this later, Dragon Queen. You stay put, understand?”

Rosvisser pretended to think seriously for a moment, then answered with a solemn nod.

“I refuse.”

Leon: ?

“Have you heard the old saying?” Rosvisser asked, her eyes twinkling.

“What saying?”

“United in heart, strong as steel!”

[Your teammate Rosvisser Melkevie has joined the party. Begin matchmaking!]