RETURN OF THE FEMALE KNIGHT

147. Change From The Past

Jungkook's coronation took place immediately, as the emperor's seat could not remain empty for long. The ceremony was quickly organized and held within the Empire's largest cathedral. The High Priest oversaw the proceedings, and all the nobles of the Ruford Empire gathered in one place to watch the rare generational event.

Jungkook and Lalisa walked side-by-side on the carpeted aisle, making their way towards the emperor's seat where the High Priest stood. The priest then crowned Jungkook and Lalisa in turn, in accordance to the customs of the Ruford Empire. His voice echoed throughout the grand, high-ceilinged cathedral.

"This marks the ascension of the thirteenth emperor, Emperor Jungkook Jeon van Dimitri Ruford."

The moment Jungkook was declared the emperor, the nobles bowed and shouted in unison,

"Hail to their Majesties the Emperor and Empress! Eternal Glory to the Ruford Empire!"

Lalisa watched the scene before her, emotions rising up to her throat. In her last life, the throne was occupied by Namgil after his rebellion. This time, however, Jungkook had proudly recovered it.

She glanced at the man next to her. Her gaze lingered over his rich, dark hair, his sapphire blue eyes, his straight nose, and his tightly pressed lips underneath. Jungkook's stature was above everyone else, as much as his flawless appearance.

And this beautiful predator...

Was hers.

Jungkook turned his head as if he felt her gaze on him. As their eyes met in midair, Jungkook's fierce eyes softened into a smile. Lalisa's heart soared at this very moment. Despite all the pain and hardships she had suffered through, in the end it was worth it to be by his side. She kept her gaze fixed on him and mouthed a phrase.

'I love you.'

At her spontaneous confession, and faint smile broke across Jungkook's lips as if he couldn't contain it.

"I love you too, my wife."

***

After the ceremony, a magnificent banquet was held in celebration of the coronation, but Jungkook swiftly returned to their bedroom after making the minimum necessary greetings with the guests. Lalisa was slightly bewildered as she followed him. The servants nearby respectfully bowed at their approach.

"Hail to Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress. Eternal glory to the Ruford Empire."

Jungkook cut the greeting and spoke in an authoritative tone.

"Don't let anyone near the bedroom until tomorrow."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

Lalisa looked at Jungkook curiously.

"Why are you—"

"Do you not know? We don't want anyone else to see us past this point."

Hestole a glance at her, then he continued in a subdued voice.

"I want you to know that I'm struggling to hold myself back right now."

"...!"

Lalisa blushed hotly at his remark. Now she realized why he was rushing to the bedroom. Jungkook burst out laughing when he saw the color of her face change dramatically.

"...Sometimes I can read your thoughts on your face so easily that it drives me crazy."

"Kookie! You!"

Jungkook bent slightly at the waist, then immediately lifted her up by her waist and shoulder. She was startled by his sudden behavior.

"W-what if people see—"