In both Europe and Korea, those of lower status must show humility before their superiors.

You flatter the other person’s abilities while downplaying your own.

However, too much humility can come off as insincere or even disrespectful.

Right now, it’s best to respond confidently without boasting.

“Yes, that’s correct.”

“Bold. But given your achievements at your age, you have every right to be a bit proud. Don’t you agree, Duke?”

Duke Visconti nodded in agreement.

“Young people today, they lack abilities, have little to show for themselves, yet they’re so full of pride.”

His words reminded me of managers and department heads back in Korea, shaking their heads about the “MZ generation.”

They always start with “Back in my day,” and go on about how young people today don’t work hard, lack skills, but still want everything handed to them.

A friend studying history once told me this gripe has been around since the ancient Sumerians, humanity’s first civilization.

And here I am, hearing the same old complaints even in another world.

“But Fabio is an exception. That’s why I personally brought him to introduce him to Your Highness, despite his humble nobility.”

It’s true the Duke has done some questionable things regarding me.

He keeps throwing the Medici Barony in my face, intending to tie me down to his service for life.

He tries to maneuver me into situations where I can’t survive without him.

It’s like something a dark, yandere-type young girl would do. Why is a man over sixty doing this?

‘Still, it means he cares about me, so I can’t exactly hate him for it…’

It’s a strange feeling, though, being on the receiving end.

“If the Duke speaks so highly of you, I look forward to seeing what you have to offer.”

The Duke gave me a glance, signaling me to proceed.

While he didn’t say anything directly, I knew what he was implying.

“It’s a gift prepared with the utmost care, in gratitude to Your Highness.”

The box I’d given to the Prince’s servant was placed before him.

The Prince opened the box and gave me a puzzled look.

“What are these black, round beans? You don’t expect me to eat them as they are, do you?”

“They’re not meant to be eaten directly. To enjoy them, you roast these coffee beans, grind them, and then brew them with water.”

Both the Duke and the Prince eyed the mysterious beans with suspicion.

“When I went to buy pepper, I saw heretics drinking this. I asked them about it, and they told me that this drink, made from what they call coffee beans, helps them stay awake.”

They both grimaced at the mention of something heretics consumed.

The Prince’s expression even showed a hint of strong displeasure and anger.

But I can assure you, once he drinks it, stays up all night, and feels that surge of energy…

He’ll likely be convinced that it enhances his vitality and would want more.

“Also, it has properties that increase virility. The heretics use it as an aphrodisiac.”

Out of a hundred noblemen, I’d bet there isn’t a single one who doesn’t care about their virility.

I’d bet my life on it.

Especially in a society where it’s a status symbol to have many young women as companions.

“Hmm, but still, it’s something the heretics consume.”

“Didn’t Deus create all things, even those the heretics consume? We should use what’s useful to us.”

The atmosphere eased a bit at that.

“I brought this because, sadly, some nobles struggle to produce heirs. I thought this might alleviate some of that tragedy.”

The absence of an heir is indeed a great tragedy for a noble family.

Not only does it mean there’s no one to inherit wealth and titles, but it also means the disappearance of a family enterprise, leading to widespread unemployment.

Citing such altruistic reasons, the Prince’s wariness eased considerably.

“If the Duke endorses him, this must be reliable. I shall try it.”

The Second Prince drank the coffee I prepared.

He winced at the bitterness…

“It’s quite bitter, but there’s a mysterious flavor to it. And the aroma… not bad at all.”

On his second sip, he even smiled subtly.

“To think those heretics had such a delightful drink to themselves—it’s outrageous.”

“Does it taste that good?” asked the Duke.

“It’s very bitter at first, but the rich aroma and slight sourness blend wonderfully. It’d go great with a sweet cake.”

Seeing the Prince in a good mood, I asked,

“Feeling a bit more alert?”

“I do feel a sense of clarity,” he replied.

I leaned in, lowering my voice on purpose.

“The effects of a remedy often take a little while to kick in. You’ll feel it most distinctly come nighttime.”

The peak effect of coffee’s wakefulness is often felt when you’re trying to sleep.

Every Korean knows that feeling all too well.

The Prince gave me a curious yet satisfied smile.

“I believe you. I’d love to chat longer, but duty calls.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.”

“I’ll be sure to tell the Emperor about you.”

With that, he dismissed us.

The Second Prince, Peter, finished his work faster than usual and returned to his chambers.

“Astonishing. A single cup, and my mind feels so clear.”

Usually, things that are good for you taste terrible.

But this coffee—with its soft bitterness and acidity—was strangely addictive.

“I should have another cup.”

He stopped himself, though.

After all, it was still a remedy. Overindulging without consulting Fabio could lead to trouble.

“Bring Mary to my chambers.”

Mary was the woman Peter had decided to make his own the first time he saw her three years ago.

Though he didn’t limit himself to just her, he slept with Mary at least five out of every ten nights.

“Yes, Your Highness.”

As soon as Mary arrived, Peter began to caress her, and they were soon entwined, as usual.

Once, twice—he climaxed, then leaned back against the pillow.

No matter how much he trained, two rounds left him exhausted.

“Mary, you’re as beautiful and sweet as ever.”

As always, Mary nestled into him, her owner and master.

Peter should have been drifting off to sleep by now…

But he didn’t feel tired at all.

In fact, he was as alert as ever.

This let him focus on every sensation.

Mary’s gasps for breath after their intense encounter, her snow-white skin glistening with sweat, her soft skin against his.

Usually, he’d fall asleep savoring these feelings…

“I can’t sleep. It’s all because you’re so adorable.”

And with that, Peter went at it again.

That night, the Second Prince broke his record, going six times.

The next day, he went straight to see the Emperor.

“Your Majesty, this coffee that Fabio de Medici gave me—it works wonders.”

Though Peter was the Emperor’s son, it was a rather brash approach.

The Emperor was considering scolding him.

“At first, I was wary, as it’s something the heretics drink. But I had to try it since Fabio, vouched for by Duke Visconti, suggested it.”

Deciding to hear him out, the Emperor thought, ‘If he’s so obsessed, there must be a reason.’

“My mind was sharper, I handled my duties more efficiently, and my stamina at night has never been better. Usually, I’m drained after a little enjoyment, but last night, I didn’t even feel drowsy or tired after going all night.”

The Emperor was human, too.

Like any high-ranking man, he was interested in anything that promised vitality.

“Hm…”

“The effort in procuring such things, the ability to discern value, the management skills—right now, Fabio is just a knight, but he could be invaluable to the Crown Prince in the future.”

The Emperor wondered if Peter was blinded by how Fabio had boosted his masculine pride, but...

Nothing Peter said was unreasonable.

“Very well. I’ll consider testing him properly. Now, off with you, Peter.”

“Yes, Father.”

As Peter left, the Emperor called after him.

“Peter, you’re still young. Do you really need that coffee? Give it here; I’ll take it for my health.”

A very human command indeed.

Peter was resentful but had no choice.

After all, the man was both his father and the Emperor.