Two-Faced Princess

One of Apollonia’s eyebrows raised in wonder.

She had heard of Leo Avienne.

The restaurant owner had a similar disposition to Madame Jensen and he was also proud of their food.

With the idea that his restaurant should be fair to everyone, he received all of his guests by order of reservation.

Whether it was a commoner or an aristocrat, they would serve the best food as long as they made an early reservation and paid the set price.

The King of Panath came to eat there one day but he got kicked out because he had no reservation.

As far as Apollonia knew, only the Emperor, Paris, and perhaps Petra Ripper were the only exceptions to his no ‘walk-in’ policy.

That’s why Uriel, who reserved their seats in the middle of the garden, was pleasantly surprised.

“Do you like the food?”

This great man, who made this empire’s aristocrats beg him to allow them in his restaurant, was welcoming to Uriel and Apollonia as if they were old friends.

“The food here is amazing. It’s the best and most impressive dish I’ve had recently. It’s good enough to be called the ‘capital’s pride’.”

Apollonia’s compliment made Leo Avienne’s face red.

He seemed to regard her as a noblewoman who was also Uriel’s close friend.

“May I ask how you came to know Count Buiche?” Apollonia asked.

Judging from the restaurant employees’ behaviors and Leo Avienne’s warm greeting, it was clear that Uriel had a special relationship with him.

“If you’re asking about his friendship with me——-”

Leo Avienne trailed off, reminiscing.

“My son is a minor knight of the Imperial Knights. Two years ago, when he was deployed to Eilead’s War of the Dead, he was associated with Count Buiche.”

Apollonia knew of the battle of Eilead.

Caelion and Uriel were always paired up in the toughest of battles.

And, even after defeating hundreds of huge monsters, they still came out intact and made another legend.

“It was Count Buiche who saved my son when he got isolated in the forest after hearing the wrong command. We have known each other ever since.” Leo Avienne finished with tears in his eyes.

“It was the middle messenger’s fault, not Sen’s, that the order was miscommunicated. How’s Sen?” asked Uriel.

Sen was probably Leo Avienne’s son.

“Yes. He finally decided to follow my footsteps after quitting as a knight. Now, he is an apprentice in my kitchen.”

“That’s good. Originally, Sen was in charge of cooking at the military camp.”

“I am thinking of passing down my restaurant to him once his skills are good enough. Of course, no matter what happens, Count Buiche can always visit the restaurant and eat for free. It is our honor.”

Naturally, the two exchanged a few more words and Apollonia didn’t bother interrupting them.

It was more interesting to observe Uriel.

In fact, she had never really expected Uriel to relate with anyone else since they had always met in secret.

There were two aspects of Uriel that Apollonia knew: a cold man who was capable of killing without remorse and a large yet innocent dog who would do anything for her out of loyalty and respect.

But on this day, Uriel looked different.

The way he knew exactly how to use his charms to win Madame Jensen’s favor, and the way he maintained a lifelong friendship with the demanding Leo Avienne, were as natural as flowing water.

Buying favors and garnering special admiration from others was not something everyone could do.

Both consideration and observation were required.

Leo Avienne said that he would give Uriel special treatment after he saved his son from imminent death but Apollonia knew that the hard-nosed man respected and liked Uriel from the bottom of his heart, and was very glad to see him visit his restaurant.

Had it not been for that, the royal family’s money would have replaced his son’s safe return.

Uriel was already being sociable without difficulty.

“Well, I won’t disturb you any more.” Leo Avienne gave a polite greeting.

“It is not a hindrance. The Lady is also observing you with interest.” Uriel, who did not take his eyes off Apollonia even while talking to Leo Avienne, said.

He knew what Apollonia saw and thought.

“It’s true. It’s nice to meet the famous Leo Avienne in person.”

Apollonia nodded.

Leo Avienne smiled modestly.

“Can I prepare what you said right now?”

“I’d appreciate it if you will.”

Leo Avienne said goodbye once more and disappeared.