Even though Raiden held the invincible free pass card of a hero, he still had the official position of Vice Captain of the Litton Wyler Royal Knights, so he returned to his workplace.
Afterward, I meticulously planned for the future.
Considering pregnancy generally lasts 10 months, my expected delivery date was 7 months away.
By the earliest possible date, 5 months from now, I would be 8 months pregnant and unable to hide my swollen belly.
Following Raiden’s advice, I decided to either take a leave or resign before my belly became too noticeable.
However, I had to delay that day as much as possible, primarily because of my brothers.
I knew there were limits to how long Raiden could hide me, and my brothers would eventually help with that.
But if my brothers found out I was pregnant? I would be dragged home immediately.
I needed to discreetly find a new home in another city and move without arousing their suspicion.
This meant I had to stay at school for another 2-3 months, possibly up to 4 months if I pushed it.
Unfortunately, the timing coincided with the Chantal International Academic Conference, during which some students and dragons would be away, classes would be more relaxed, and professors would be vying for vacations, making the atmosphere tense.
Nevertheless, I needed to act quickly to find a new doctor and ensure a smooth transition.
“I have something to discuss.”
Once I made a decision, I had to act on it immediately. I confidently walked into the faculty office and opened the door.
The medical department’s main office was empty since everyone was usually in their respective areas. The department head typically stayed in Building 1 or the main school building.
“I was just about to call you. Come in and sit down.”
I was met with an unexpected warm reception. Dr. Black, the medical department head, smiled and pointed to the sofa.
Most of the teachers were in the office, including the veterinarians and a few other professors, likely from the Chantal delegation. This made me uneasy.
“A royal decree has arrived.”
Dr. Black respectfully unfolded a letter with the royal seal in gold ink. I had seen a mail delivery dragon with the royal flag on the way, so it wasn’t my imagination.
Some professors looked pleased and excited, while others seemed burdened and anxious. Dr. Black, the most authoritative person in the office, cleared his throat a few times and began to speak.
“His Majesty the King has taken a great interest in the swordmanship prize at this year’s Chantal International Academic Conference. Rumor has it that the prize is an egg from the union of Rotten Cromwell, Prince Bellpepper’s dragon, and a Krypton Diamond. You know, if the offspring of Rotten Cromwell and Krypton Diamond inherits their strengths, it would greatly increase our kingdom’s security.”
If His Majesty had sent an official letter, the rumors were likely true.
Rotten Cromwell, although only a medium-sized dragon at 20 meters, was highly combative and strategically brilliant, practically born for war.
Its fire was among the hottest even compared to top-tier fire dragons. If such a dragon successfully mated with the giant fire-breathing Krypton Diamond, it would produce an extremely powerful offspring. Bellpepper was clearly expecting to win.
“So, to ensure our victory, we will select the best students and take the two strongest dragons, Tess Nigella, a native breed known for their intelligence and strength. This will be their first trip, and they might be stressed.”
This was not reassuring.
“I’ve heard that dragons follow you well.”
Veterinarians and caretakers nodded in agreement.
“Even if it’s just a temporary whim, it’s better than nothing. We want our dragons in the best condition for the competition. Also, since Tess Nigella is a mountain dragon, we need a skilled doctor. Originally, Dr. Ren was going to volunteer, but His Majesty ordered us to be thorough, so you must also accompany us.”
Although it was essentially a command, I appreciated the detailed explanation. However, this was a big problem for me.
The delegation to Chantal was leaving in a week, and the journey, preparation, conference, rest, and return would take almost two months.
By then, I should be packing and heading to a rural area.
A long journey while being pregnant was too much.
“Thank you for recognizing my abilities.”
“Your skills are impressive, it is natural to recognize them. Now, what is your answer?”
I couldn’t mention that participating in the Chantal event was difficult for me in front of everyone.
Besides, this was practically a royal command, and it wasn’t a good time to discuss long-term leave or resignation.
“Oh, I wanted to request a vacation in two months.”
“Sure. You can take your vacation after we return from Chantal. Approved.”
“Thank you. That’s a relief.”
While everyone else felt relieved, I was burdened with the responsibility. One word about my pregnancy would excuse me from royal orders, but it would also expose of the fact that I was an unwed mother, bringing me back to Gingerbell.
“Then, I’ll take my leave.”
I was doomed.
