Axel's mind raced as Joseph's words sank in. The realization that he and the prince were being pitted against each other for the ownership of Ivy and Merry unsettled him. It was a stark reminder that even within the royal world, darkness and manipulation could lurk.

Feeling the weight of the situation, Axel slowly removed his mask, revealing his face to everyone in the room. The air grew heavy with silence as all eyes turned towards him, their gazes filled with curiosity and anticipation.

Joseph, maintaining his composed demeanor, spoke up once again. "You see, Master, I believe that whether it is you or the prince who acquires these elves, it will provide me with a tremendous advantage. The royal world can be a complex and intriguing place, and I am merely capitalizing on the opportunities it presents."

Axel's gaze shifted to Ivy, Merry, and Alice, who seemed to show a genuine interest in him. Their eyes held a mixture of curiosity and a glimmer of hope, as if silently pleading for