People were judged by appearances. No matter how talented someone was, if their looks were no better than a hideous man, they would always attract negative attention, no matter what they did.0

Rajis, the Sword Dragon, was a prime example. He had been blessed by the heavens with everything: a strong physique, outstanding talent in swordsmanship, a noble soul, and a dignified, commanding presence.0

But in one area, it seemed even the gods had abandoned him: his face. He had narrow, elongated eyes, cheekbones that jutted upward as if ready to ascend to heaven, and a bulky nose, an oddly asymmetrical jaw… 0

One poet once described Rajis’s face this way: “It’s as if God fell backward while sculpting Rajis’ face.”0

In noble society, marriage was an extension of politics. Bloodlines and abilities mattered more than age or appearance. In that sense, Rajis was the ultimate groom candidate; he was a prodigy who had become a Swordmaster at just twenty-two, destined to rise to the rank of a Prime, equivalent to seven-star. To become a Prime meant becoming one of the lords of the kingdom. To be the wife of such a man would be a prize no noble family would refuse.0

However, Rajis was just too ugly—so ugly it was almost a tragedy.0

“Ah… this is a bit much…”0

As Rajis aged, his harsh features only became more pronounced. Even among nobles, who would normally overlook appearances if status and talent were good enough, none could help but grimace when they saw him. On top of that, he gave off a strange, fishy smell, which especially made it hard for women to endure his presence.0

Of course, Rajis himself knew he was ugly, but he didn’t care. Even when urged by his family to undergo cosmetic surgery, Rajis steadfastly...0