(Orlax POV)
"Why are you doing all this yourself? I mean, you could leave it to the servants. You already have enough work as it is."
Riana rested her head on the kitchen table, watching me as I worked.
"I told you before, I'm used to making my own meals."
I was slicing the meat as I responded to her question.
"I know, but now that you're the Emperor, wouldn't it be better to spend your time doing something more useful?"
Riana lifted her head and leaned back in her chair, closing her eyes and inhaling the aroma of the food.
"Let me ask you something instead—why do you use a sword and want to grow stronger instead of letting someone else protect you?"
I answered with a question while placing the sliced meat into the pot.
"Hmm? I like using a sword. I like being strong rather than relying on someone else."
She tilted her head, thinking for a moment before replying.
