"She doesn't need our support — or rather, she doesn't even place us in her eyes," the Empress said with a soft chuckle.
"Of course, we can't blame her for being too proud. But since she isn't on friendly terms with us, there's no way we can offer her our support. Richard, you must be careful of that woman."
"Why?" Richard was slightly surprised by the warning the Empress gave him.
"Your growth is extraordinary. You will inevitably become a target for other factions preparing to obtain the World Magic Aether. Lady Rebecca is the closest to you. There's a possibility she might try to kill you. Such things are common among those who seek the World Magic Aether. When a new genius with great potential appears, they can be killed before they grow."
Richard naturally understood that, but it wasn't proper for him to respond, so he simply nodded.
So far, he thought this Empress truly bore him no ill will.