Be ready guys, this Arc is very long. So, Book 2 only have 3 chapters, that’s why each chapter have a realllyyyy long length. Beware of spoiler at the bottom of page, i don’t know how to hide it like in Novel Updates 😦
Book 2 Table of Content
BOOK 2 CHAPTER 9: VACATIONS
BOOK 2 CHAPTER 10: 7TH GRADE
BOOK 2 CHAPTER 11: FLOWER OF THE EMPRESS
BOOK 2 CHAPTER 9: VACATIONS
Desserts smelled delicious on the tea table -biscuits with pink confiture, cakes, raspberry puff pastry with custard — but no one ate them. Lace napkins lay under a cup of tea and a teapot with a pattern of pink flowers, and a bouquet of wildflowers stood on a white tablecloth.
It seemed as if time had stopped in such a cozy atmosphere. However, a pale maid stood next to Aster. The guy was holding a bouquet of flowers and a gift for the guest, but his hand trembled slightly from the fact that it remained in one position for a long time.
Aster stared at the tea table as if he was about to break it into small pieces. A cup of tea was even prepared for the guest, but he never showed up.
– The tea is cold. I’ll brew a new one.
The maid who had been watching Aster while he was in Eiserah came over and took the kettle. She unobtrusively watched Estella, whose nerves could fail at any moment. Estella’s gaze turned to the servant, who took a kettle of cold tea and put it on the cart.
The water boiled again, and the maid slowly put the tea leaves into the teapot. However, she constantly looked sideways at the copper kettle boiling on the stove. If Aster can’t control his temperament, can he throw hot water on her face? She had been with Aster long enough not to see him bullying his servants when he was young, so there was much to worry about. Bells were ringing. The clock struck three o’clock. The meeting was scheduled for two in the afternoon. An hour has passed. In all honesty, the maid did not think that the guest, whom Aster had invited, would come, but the custard had already melted from
the warm oven and dripped down the plate.
-I’ll take away the sweets and put them on again when a guest comes,- the maid sighed softly and slowly reached for the table.
The moment she grabbed a plate of raspberry quiche …
– A-a-a-a-a-a!
The tea table turned over with a crash.
– What’s happening? Ritaus burst into the room, hearing the servant’s cry.
Tea cups rolled across the floor, and snacks and cakes were crushed in a broken three-tiered dessert tray, staining the floor. The carpet on the floor was covered in cream. The maid was sitting on the floor, and Aster, unable to control himself, stood and trembled all over.
– Aster!
When Ritaus quietly waved to the maid, she got up from her seat and quickly left the room. Perhaps she breathed a sigh of relief.
– Yes, how is she! .. Aster’s voice trembled.
-She ignored my invitation.
After Estella’s words, Ritaus finally figured out the situation. The current time is 3 pm.
– Oh, that was today!
The same tea-drinking day when Aster invited Kayla. For a while, he forgot about it. Ritaus took a deep breath as he scanned the filthy room.
– She didn’t even answer.
Kayla had only seen Aster at the train station once during the attack, so it’s obvious that she chose to ignore the invitation from a stranger. In addition, the letter was sent on behalf of Eiser, from the house of Kayla’s ex-fiancé. What happened was inevitable. But we are talking about Aster Lysch Yerbha. He was a child devoid of common sense.
– Take it easy. Lady Kayla was busy with her promotion. She must have been distracted, Ritaus tried to calm Aster down, shielding Kayla. In the meantime, he knew what had happened at the Kratie Boarding Academy, what had happened to Kayla and what she had been drawn into.
Aster gradually calmed down, listening to Ritaus:
-… Has she been in the dorm until today?
– Yes, I heard that she stayed at the Boarding Academy for a long time because she was late for the promotion exam.
-Then… it’s understandable why she didn’t come, Estella’s voice was rather soft.
– I was hoping for an early graduation, but
suddenly everything goes awry. Now it is clear why she forgot about the invitation.
The floor, spoiled even before Aster had time to notice, was washed by the servants. The table, which had fallen, stood again, and fresh tea was being brewed on it. Aster has already pulled himself together. The seething emotions seemed to calm down.
– What are the names of those who mocked Kayla? Aster spoke about the girl with friendliness, as if they already had a strong relationship.
– Why do you need? This is already in the past.
Aster’s eyes lit up with a special fire, and for a moment Ritaus felt creepy.
– I just wanted to find out.
-You don’t need to know about this.Ritaus instinctively sensed danger.
– Now everything is fine. Lady Kayla Vesta successfully passed the promotion test. I think she made up with a family with whom they had disagreements.
Not quite reconciled, but … He did not know the details, but information reached him that the Chiade family had made an offer to the Vesta family. Apparently rumors of a breakup in the engagement spread pretty quickly. Ritaus wanted to change the subject to distract Estella. However, Asterer wanted to hear about Kayla’s life at the Academy. If he doesn’t satisfy Aster here, he might hire someone to find out about it. Ritaus told everything he knew, as much as possible.
– Is that all? Keep talking.
When Ritaus spoke about Kayla’s personal life, he decided that was enough. But Aster wanted to hear more.
– That’s all what I know. And Lady Kayla and I are in different classes, and our engagement has already been broken off. I don’t want to talk about her anymore.
Catching on to a few words, Aster asked enthusiastically:
– Does engagement mean you will get married later?
– Yes.
Aster smiled happily.
– But we parted.
What interests him? Ritaus looked anxiously at Estella.
– But why did you break up? Have you been abandoned?
-… That’s enough,Ritaus, who didn’t want to answer anymore, left.Aster followed and was there when Ritaus received an urgent telegram announcing the breakup.
Ritaus still couldn’t understand. Why did Kayla Vesta suddenly announce the end of their engagement? They met when they were young, got engaged and met constantly in accordance with the requests of adults. The Kayla Vestaa he knew was an obedient and elegant woman.
-When it started?
Kayla Vesta has definitely changed. He didn’t know when it happened, but from a certain moment she looked as if she saw right through him. Everything that he hid in his heart. He felt uncomfortable because she seemed to notice all his flaws, so she began to treat him harshly.
– But now…
He didn’t know it himself. Throughout the engagement, he treasured someone else, not his fiancée. The younger brother of his ex-fiancee.
No, at the end of the duel, which was a condition of the break, Kayla Vesta looked different.
-Why are you doing this now?
Although he hadn’t needed to be in the dorm since the signing of the contract, Ritaus tried to spend as much time as possible in the training room of the Boarding Academy, even if for an hour or two. Just in case they can meet? From the moment he arrived at the Academy, Ritaus realized that he was unknowingly looking for her.
The despair Ritaus felt was beyond description.
***
– I knew that you could handle it, when I returned home, my father praised me, as if he believed in me from
the very beginning, – you are like Abby since childhood: smart, brave and determined.
My father was clearly not praising Kayla, but me. As a child, the real Kayla loved to draw, do flowers and
handicrafts. She was an obedient girl, so obedient that she never went against her parents.
– Kayla is amazing. I can’t believe she never held a sword in her hands. I don’t know what happened, that
yesterday the fencing teacher praised my sister. Franz was sincerely glad, and he liked the lessons at home more than the lessons at the Academy. Was it because it ended a hell of an academic life and allowed him to study what he wanted to do? – My sister is really amazing. I don’t think anything would have gone wrong, because I listened to my sister.
– I have heard. By the way, Franz showed a talent for Shitsuro!
– Glad to hear that, Franz!
– Your sister is the heiress who will lead our family. You have to take care of Kayla and help her in the future.
– Of course, father!
Compliments are good, but it becomes embarrassing if you listen to them for a long time.
– I just went to the right class for my age. It’s not that much. I started talking about the stories of my friends because I wanted to change the subject – rather, my friends are amazing. If not for them, I would not have passed the promotion test.
The incident happened solely thanks to the help of Ophelia, Iris, Marianne and other students. It was not me who should be praised here, but my friends.- I want to see the faces of your friends. Why don’t you invite them on vacation? my mother, who was
listening to us, asked with a smile,
– Let them stay with us for the winter. There are many empty rooms here.
– Thanks Mom.
The estate of the Vesta family was located close to Berg station, which was not far from the capital. My mood started to improve.
-It turns out that Lady Marianne Dmirov is a pretty capable girl,- his father looked at Franz with a satisfied
smile. The brother smiled awkwardly, trying to avoid his father’s gaze as much as possible.
– Yes, it was Marianne who persuaded Duke Dmirov with the petition of her friends.
Mother and father nodded in satisfaction. They seem to be very fond of their future daughter-in-law.
-Lucky for you, Franz.
Franz smiled and hastily emptied the plate. When the speech at the table touched Marianne, he seemed to want to leave as soon as possible. As luck would have it, the conversation continued when the father turned to praise Marianne:
– She has amazing beauty, brilliant mind, personality and dignity to be a noble woman. What a lovely bride!
I don’t know, father. Franz was known in this world as the “protagonist”. Curious if he is interested in women?
When I looked back at Franz with concern, my younger brother had already lost his appetite.
– If we are connected with the Dmirov family, we will be more comfortable in society. Watch out for Lady
Marianne.
– … Yes, father.
I’m probably the only one who heard Franz sigh softly. Poor fellow.
Franz and Marianne were not a bad couple in the original work, at first glance. However, I remembered that it was not the sweet atmosphere of the lovers, but a mutually beneficial relationship. Like business partners. There was such an episode in the original. They were forced to go on dates to theaters and parks, but each time they parted, they said goodbye with a light kiss on the cheeks. On the way home, Franz was tormented, feeling nothing for his bride.
[You’re going to grow up, get married and live with Marianne for the rest of your life, right? Peacefully,
without worry. ]
After that, an incident broke out with Franz, who until yesterday had never felt love, and Franz was eventually kidnapped by the fanatic Estella.
That’s why I was worried about the relationship between Franz and Marianne. Franz was originally a typical hero with an obedient character. He didn’t say -I don’t like this- with his mouth, but couldn’t you just say it by looking at the picture of each frame?
When I found out that Aster was a man in a dress, my heart was pounding and I blushed, even when he
forcibly kissed Ritaus. Since then, I have pondered for a long time. Even if it was just an author’s trick, can
Franz marry a woman and live a normal life? I do not think so. Franz’s stated value in the plot was too great.
Maybe I just got used to Franz, who became my younger brother. Now when I think of Franz from the original, I feel guilty, as if I ruined my little brother’s love life. I was worried about Marianne, who was my friend. Marianne had a strong sense of responsibility, so she would try to marry Franz, since the adults wanted it. Franz doesn’t seem to like Marianne very much. How do we know which man will turn his attention to him?Is the opponent a freaky type like Aster or a serious type like Ritaus? If they break up, can I continue to be friends with Marianne? I was very impressed with Marianne as a friend. But what should I do with these questions?
So I had no idea that these two would be together …
***
Even after the holidays began, I continued to train and keep fit. My father and the fencing teacher watched me as I alternately used the rapier and the long sword.
– Fabulous. It’s just a natural gift.
-Kayla has her own style of swordsmanship, and if she becomes a knight in the future, she won’t have
anyone to follow.
– Of course of course. I have considered her a genius since she took the sword.
These were old habits. I still can not forget how my father clicked his tongue, looking at them, until I left for the boarding school.
-In the room of the Head of the Guardian Knights, all the articles related to Mistress Kayla at Berg Station are cut and framed, the butler Alto told me quietly as I rested and drank water.
-The master thinks that these days Mrs. Kayla should be proud of what she does.
At that moment, the water heading towards the stomach stopped and almost splashed into the face of the butler Alto.
– He brags about it?
– Like Franz …
I nodded without realizing it. Yes, there was nothing to brag about. Franz had a natural talent and ability, but he did not know how to use them. He was born with the abilities of the protagonist, but never used them.
-And he is very proud that the Academy cadets wrote a petition for Mistress Kayla.
– And why? I looked back at my father. He was still talking to the fencing teacher with a smile on his face.
Alto whispered:
– You are very trusted by commoner students of different classes or something like that.
A satisfied smile appeared on the wrinkled face of the butler Alto. Not that …
– And he brags about it? ..
-What I’ve told you is a secret, Mistress Kayla.
I looked at my father, the Marquis of Vesta again. When our gazes met, he winked and gave a slight wave of his hand, as if saluting.
Don’t do this, please!
Feeling uncomfortable, I could not continue training and, leaving the field, ran into Franz. The brother
changed into training clothes.
– Sister, have you finished yet?
– I could not concentrate, because they were looking at me. I think you’re a little late?
– Baron Lussen and Mister Alzman came to talk.
– Who are they?
-This… You saw them recently. These are members of the migration club, which I have joined.
Oh, those wild bird lovers who told Franz that he was cute and like a lark. They looked normal …
-They gave me a present: a set of miniature bird models. This is amazing! Franz was a little excited and
showed off a new set of birds that the wild bird lovers had specially made for him.
Everything was in order, except for the red rose stuck in the pink ribbon of the gift box.
Pink ribbon and red rose? It’s ominous.
– Sister, do you want to see? I’ll show you later.
Franz did not listen to my answer and walked towards the training hall, unilaterally stopping showing off the gift.
I think you need to quickly decide on the future of Franz. After leaving “Kratie” he constantly communicates with strange guys. And Alto said that he was already communicating with Ritaus again.
I felt that I had to hurry up with my plan. I must not let the boys surround my brother until Franz becomes
Master Shitsuro. Regardless of who Franz is in a relationship with later, he will be free, but not now.
I went to my room and took out a thick book that was hidden in the closet.
<Interesting and reliable account of the wildlife habitat in the Troisin area>
It’s a boring title for a book I wanted to burn just by looking at it, but it’s a valuable book. This is because there is the Oculus boarding school for girls in Troisin, where Franz will study. It was a book that I deliberately chose for Franz to interest him in the Troisin region. I gingerly hugged the thick book and headed for the library. It was only available to those with permission. I just recently came and went because of my studies. I stood in front of the bookshelf, which Franz often approached. It was a collection of books only about wild birds and insects and is located in a rather secluded corner. The book was deliberately placed in the most prominent place. And I pulled out the book with one finger to make it stand out. It was impossible not to notice the book that stands out so much.
-Time to hide you, Franz.
***
The next place I went after leaving the library was my father’s study.
I knocked on the door.
– Come on in.
When I opened the door, my father was sitting in front of the table, and Alto, who was holding the report, was standing next to him.
– Kayla? What happened? Why did you come?
Father’s face, which had been hard until he recognized me, relaxed.
-I think you have something to tell me. Come on, tell me.
Strangely caring. Alto gave us a quick glance and held out a teacup.
-I’m already looking forward to what you have to say. If only it was not stupidity.
My father’s eyes flashed as if he believed in me. This is too much pressure. It certainly seems right that my father’s trust in me has grown quite strong these days. I think I will succeed if I try.
-I think it’s time for Franz to return to the Academy.
My father’s eyes widened at my words:
-You said you’d let him learn and live his life.
Yes, I’ve always said that. I cleared my throat by clearing my throat.-But we are aristocrats all the same. Franz is a boy. A nobleman cannot remain without an Academy diploma.
The Vesta family is no exception.
The father nodded.
-Then I’ll find a place for Franz. No less famous than “Kratie”.
Will not work.
– Leave it to me. A corner where Franz will study in peace … No, I will look for a school where he will be able to study in peace and receive a diploma. As you know, Franz is a fragile child. I don’t want to be bullied again. It was impossible, since he had Shitsuro, but I convinced my father, which I did not use often. Fortunately, my father entrusted me with a solution to the school problem, where Franz could study without any problems.
– I trust you. If this is the school you choose, Franz will be safe.
-Thank you, father, I lifted my skirt and slightly bent my knees. My father watched me with pleasure. – Then I will find out and immediately inform you, because my father gave me permission.
I left my father’s office calmly, with the most light and graceful steps. The rice is scattered. Now all that
remains is to wait for the fish to bite the hook. When I entered the room after supper, there were letters on the tea table. One thick letter and several invitations. Among them, one light purple envelope caught my eye. Sender -Ophelia Kautz.
– This is from Ophelia.
When I opened the letter, I found a beautiful light purple lettering paper. Attached to the note were violets that were difficult to find in winter. The envelope contained not only Ophelia’s letter, but also Iris’s letter. Come to think of it, I heard that Iris and Ophelia live in the same area. They both wanted to see me and invited me to their home if I didn’t mind.
My heart fluttered with anticipation. It’s a sweet feeling that I didn’t experience in my previous school years. I immediately wrote back to Ophelia and Iris, saying that I would like to invite two people at the request of my mother. When finished, I put it in an envelope, then to close it with the seal of Vesta. After that, I had to check other invitations that came one after another. They were all invitations to tea parties or parties. Many of these invitations came after it became known that I was the heir to the Vesta family. I haven’t even made my public debut yet. As soon as I thought about what to do with them, Aster suddenly came to mind.
– Kyayayaya !!!
I completely forgot!
– Sister, what’s going on?
“What’s the matter, Mistress Kayla?”
– Lady, suddenly there was a cry …
Hearing my cry, Franz, Alto and the maids came running. I wanted to say that everything was fine and
nothing happened, but I could not speak normally because my mouth would not close. She waved her hand,
forcing everyone to leave. Remi approached me anxiously.
-Lady, take a deep breath. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Like this, slowly.
As Remi said, my surprise subsided a little, but the fear did not go away. What should I do? What to do?
Should I send him a letter of apology right now? No, what if it’s too late and I ruin everything ?!
If it was a different invitation, I wouldn’t need to send a response if I didn’t go. Of course, in an aristocratic society, this was impolite. However, it was sent by Aster Lysch Elbakha. Estella who knows no measure. I didn’t know if he harbored a grudge over such a trifle.- Remi, help me.
Hearing my plea, Remi took my hand and nodded.
– Would you like a cup of warm tea, lady?
I took a sip of the hot tea Remi had prepared and took a deep breath.
– Remi, what would a 15-year-old boy like to receive as a gift?
-Well, I don’t know, lady. Wouldn’t it be better to ask Herr Franz?
– No, it won’t help.
I’m sure he’ll say something about an insect or a bird. I can predict this without asking. What should I do?
Please think, head! Please!
I tried to remember as much as possible about Aster’s tastes. I know his sexual orientation, but I don’t know his other preferences.
Since the work’s rating was 19+, everyday life didn’t look good. Then I suddenly remembered Aster’s
bedroom, which was described in the original. It was a sweet princess room full of roses and lace. And the
dolls that decorated the bed. It was full of toys in the form of rabbits, dolls and bears.
– Yes, doll!
I hurriedly wrote a letter of apology and asked Remi to go to the doll shop tomorrow. I’m thinking of ordering a pretty doll as an apology.
***
The boy’s loud laughter echoed through the Lysch residence. Ritaus was silent while Aster smiled, holding his stomach. On the table in front of him were a letter of apology and a gift from Kayla Vesta. It was a beautiful doll with white porcelain skin, shiny pink hair, and purple glass eyes.
– What did you mean, Kayla Vesta? What’s the point in sending this, Ritaus?
– Apology. But I’m not sure, this is just a ridiculous guess.
Ritaus didn’t understand why Aster was smiling and laughing in this strange situation. Although he never really understood Estella. Now it was even worse.
– My least favorite thing is a gift doll. And this particular one even looks like me.
Kayla Vesta could not do it on purpose, but the situation was stalemate. The most hated gift for Aster in this world was a doll. He didn’t like pretending to be a girl anyway and wearing women’s dresses. Others may think that it is a pleasure, but, in fact, Aster hated dressing up as a woman.
Thanks to Aster’s beautiful appearance, it was possible to prevent rumors that the grandson of the Duke of Lysch was alive. Aster knew about his beauty and showed arrogant grumpiness to others, but he felt more and more detached. How long will he have to hide?
-Lady Kayla cannot know this,Estella urged Ritaus. He was afraid that Aster’s sympathy for Kayla would turn into blood dislike.
– I know it. I know. But she sent this gift …
Why is it a doll that mimics what he looks like now? Aster looked at the pink-haired doll on the table and
laughed heartily:
– Haven’t Kayla Vesta heard of the Spirit Kingdom?
Aster twirled in his fingers a doll with the same pink hair as his own.
– The general public is not aware of this. Maybe she didn’t think that far.Almost 100 years have passed since the fall of Alik, the Kingdom of Spirits, and it was unfamiliar to ordinary
people. Only a few knew what people looked like in this country and what abilities they possessed.
– Ritaus, do I look so young? Young enough to receive a doll as a gift?
In Ritaus’s eyes, Aster still looked like a girl his age. The problem is that Aster is not a girl, but a boy, but he still didn’t look so hopelessly young.
– Is it because you haven’t grown?
Aster began to take care of his height, which had not changed for some time.
-I hate getting dolls, Ritaus.
– I know.
The Duke of Lysch gave Aster a doll whenever he left the Duke’s residence. Aster has matured by a year, and now he is fifteen, so he recently gave him another doll, although he does not need it. So Asterer’s bed was full of dolls.
Little Aster was very lonely, which is why he was obsessed with Ritaus. Asterer thought that it would be better if Ritaus or his grandfather were there, and not receive another doll as a gift.
– How long will they see me as a child? Better not to come back at all than to leave me in this state, – Aster
muttered quietly.
***
Finally, it was time for the welcome guests to arrive. Ophelia and Iris came and decided to stay with me.
– Welcome, Miss Ophelia Kautz. Iris Klein. Welcome to the Vesta estate.
Not only my family, but also the servants greeted my friends.
– H-greetings to the Marquis.
– Greetings, Marquis.
Ophelia and Iris greeted my parents with frozen faces. The hands of the friends holding the skirts trembled. Mom didn’t know they were nervous, so she stood next to Ophelia and Iris.
– As I heard, you are beautiful and cheerful ladies. I’ve heard a lot from Kayla. If you need anything, feel free
to tell me. I’ll talk to everyone at the mansion.
My father wanted to say something, but his mother interrupted him all the time.
– Thank you, Your Excellency!
– Your generosity is enough for us!
In addition to this, their father asked them about small personal matters, but the girls answered in a low voice, with their heads down, which made it easy to understand that they felt ill at ease. Even Ophelia, who was so talkative when she was at the Boarding Academy. It was unexpected.
– Wasn’t it hard for you to get to us?
– What do you! Everything was very comfortable.
– Then we will send you on the same train that you took.
– No thanks! I’ll take a regular train!
Ophelia and Iris shook their heads in dismay. My parents must be very supportive of Ophelia and Iris, so they bought them an expensive ticket for the magic train to our house. The magic train cost two zero more than a regular steam train ticket, so not every aristocrat could afford to ride it. Thanks to this, the friends were able to overcome the long twenty hours in just some ten minutes.- Franz will accompany you if you would like to take a boat ride on the lake. You already know my son Franz,
don’t you? When my mother introduced my little brother to them, Ophelia and Iris nodded. Franz also bowed in the manner of the aristocracy and kissed the hands of Ophelia and Iris, respectively.
– We once saw each other at the Academy, but this is the first time I say hello like that. My name is Franz
Vesta. I hope you will have good memories while you live at the Vesta estate.
Ophelia and Iris blushed as Franz smiled brightly.
– Mister Marquis, time is up.
The servant, who was standing next to his father, could not resist and showed him a pocket watch. The father glanced sideways at the mother, but she avoided this look. In the end, my father had to go to work with his shoulders down.
– See you later, dear!
When the father disappeared along with the servant, the mother took Ophelia and Iris to look at the house. Franz and I followed closely behind him.
-This is the Hall of Giants. Balls and big events take place here. If you go up to the second floor, you will see a small room that is used for house parties. Walking around the mansion, I noticed that the girls’ tension gradually subsided.
– Is this a sculpture created by Saromen Arte, a great sculptor, 100 years ago? – Recovered, Iris asked her
mother about jewelry and sculptures.
-Do you know about this, Miss Iris Klein?, You have deep knowledge of art.
– Thank you, Ma’am. Since my parents are engaged in galleries, I have seen them since childhood.
– To develop a good eye, you need to be able to see many objects of art from an early age. Fine! I am worried that my children are not interested in this.
-But Miss Kayla and Franz are beautiful because they look like a marquis. When I first met the Marquis, I
thought you were Kayla’s sister, so young and beautiful.
My mother was as happy as a girl when she heard this. Ophelia, I noticed a long time ago that you have a good ability to compliment. After visiting the lobby, my mother took us to the room where Ophelia and Iris were to stay.
-If you only knew how loud it was since last week when the ladies came. We even put in new beds.
My mother’s behavior was incredible. They even had a room next to my room, set up for Ophelia and Iris. Lace glittered on the wallpaper that teenage girls would have liked, on the curtains and the canopy. Perhaps, in the future, this room will be intended for female guests.
– I didn’t know what the ladies would like, so I tried to prepare everything. You can enjoy everything in the
closet, from silk pajamas to evening gowns made up of multiple sets and tea dresses that are just for teas.
These were brand new kits, bought from a boutique for the imperial aristocracy and even before they were published in the seasonal catalog.
– Ma-Marquis! You shouldn’t have done this!
– We have an evening dress, we also took it …
-Next week we will be staying at our separate home in Hwando. Hwando’s high season is winter. You will
need a lot of dresses.
– Holy secular season?
Ophelia and Iris’ eyes widened. I quickly took two steps back. Ophelia and Iris’ eyes turned to me.-I don’t think Kayla heard that. You’re going to the party too. Why don’t you debut with Kayla?
– De-debut? Kayla and us?
And again the amazed gaze turned to me again. I averted my eyes.
– But the Marquis! Iris is a noblewoman, so it’s okay, but I’m a commoner. How can I debut with them? It’s
impossible. Ophelia shook her head. But the mother’s face remained calm:
– What does this have to do with the case? You are my daughter’s friend that I vouch for! I don’t care about your status. From now on, you, as guests of the Vesta family, will attend social gatherings in Hwando every winter.
We were all amazed at what was happening, but my mother was sincerely happy. As if asking for help, Ophelia and Iris looked at me, but I defiantly turned to the wall. Nobody can stop mom when she is in this state.
– I do not know what is happening with my children. I felt so lonely every time I attended social events.
My friends and Franz, who were listening, were confused and looked in all directions. Franz was already a
fan of wild birds as a child. I was not very interested in secular society. Then I even stopped doing everything that Kayla Vesta did. Because of this, my mother had to go there alone for a long time.
***
“So when did you say she was coming?” Mom asked, looking at the large wall clock. That was when my
mother, myself, Franz, Ophelia and Iris were enjoying light meals in the living room.
-She said she’ll be there in the evening.- I think she will arrive late, because she is coming from a relative’s
house.
-Yes, it will be great if Marianne comes with us. Hurray, hurray, hurray! “
Ophelia and Iris weren’t the only ones invited by their mother. Franz’s fiancée, Marianne, was also invited.
– Will Marianne also live in this room? Ophelia asked, looking around the room where they were staying. The room was very spacious because the walls between the two rooms had been torn down. There are two beds,
large enough to accommodate three people each.
-No, Marianne’s room is upstairs, opposite Franz’s room.
Hoo-doo-dong.
Franz’s tea spilled onto his clothes. Franz began to shake off his jacket.
– Franz, be careful!
Franz smiled awkwardly and wiped off his clothes with the handkerchief his mother held out. Only I looked at such a Franz with pity. Regardless of how they treated each other, you just put the guy and the girl in the rooms next to each other. (Lmao we know whats gonna happen~)
Of course, Franz is not interested in women, so he treats them with polite indifference, but his mother’s trick scared him. When Franz sat down again, Alto the butler poured fresh tea into his cup.
– It’s really romantic to be in a room where you can meet face to face with your fiancé!
– Right? Do you think so, Miss Ophelia? I want these two to get closer.
The mother’s words that followed were truly impressive.
– Now it’s a little embarrassing to be ashamed of each other. If you cannot sleep at night, you can talk to each other …
For a moment, tea escaped from Franz’s mouth.
– Kha-kha!
– Oh, Franz! Are you okay? You must have a sore throat. -His mother patted Franz on the back. – If you drink tea in a hurry, you will get sick. Marianne is coming soon too, but as a groom you must show yourself to be a decent young man. Oh mom. As long as you say that, Franz may have an upset stomach. Franz’s face turned red from the constant coughing. Ophelia whispered to me when she saw Franz:
-Franz must be embarrassed.
“He can’t help but be embarrassed!”
But my mother, Ophelia and Iris did not perceive this as a physiological phenomenon.
What a pity.
Ophelia got along well with my mother. Iris told stories about local social circles that she saw and heard.
– Oh my God! Viscount Shvat himself? God, I knew it was the other way around.
– On the contrary, he tried to accuse Mrs. Shvat of infidelity. Now that the evidence has been presented, the problem has become even more serious.
– Wow, ho-ho-ho-ho-ho! I really like these stories. Countess Eiser must hear this.
Ironically, our mothers stayed as close as before, whether or not Ritaus and I parted ways.
Come to think of it, because of the mothers Kayla Vesta and Ritaus were engaged. Ritaus’s mother was like my mother, but she really wanted to have a daughter. In the end, they worked together to get their daughter and son engaged. Even before I appeared here, Countess Eiser told Kayla Vesta about the engagement:
– I have always wanted to have a daughter, and my wish is finally coming true. And now we’re going to a
party together. I will introduce you as my future daughter-in-law. I will accompany you during your debut. Ho ho ho.So I didn’t even go to a tea party, let alone a party. Even if an invitation came, I would not go at all, because I was afraid that it would immediately become known to Countess Eiser. After repeating this once or twice, Countess Eiser was tired and gave up.
My mother and Countess Eiser were very upset when I broke up with Ritaus. I hope that the next daughter-in-law of Count Eiser’s wife will be a pretty girl who loves social gatherings. We just couldn’t get along with her. Because that kind of lifestyle didn’t suit me. Unfortunately, Ritaus loves men, so a woman shouldn’t marry him, should she? I can’t say it out loud. Live alone, Ritaus.
Knock Knock
Our gazes turned to the door when we heard a knock. When the maid opened the door, a servant was
waiting outside.
– Madam, Marianne Dmirov has arrived.
I can’t believe Marianne, who was supposed to arrive in the evening, has already arrived. The mother’s face brightened.
– They said that she would arrive in the evening. Already? Franz, please come down first and escort
Marianne.
Having hurriedly sent Franz to the first floor, Mom looked in the mirror and straightened her clothes.
The engagement between Franz and Marianne was different from the engagement between Ritaus and me, which was a family friendship. We had no common ground with Dmirov at all, so everyone was surprised when Duke first contacted us. There was no reason to reject Dmirov, who had widespread power in central politics.
Rising from our seats, we followed my mother into the lobby of the first floor. Marianne wore a red winter coat that fitted her red hair and a white fur hat. Seeing us, Marianne smiled.
– Kayla! Ophelia and Iris have already arrived.
Ophelia and Iris ran to Marianne and hugged her. The girls’ laughter echoed through the lobby.
Franz stood next to them like an idol. A forced smile froze on his tired face. For Franz, Marianne had a polite,slightly indifferent smile. They were like a business couple who cannot feel at ease with each other, even if they are not lovers.
-You look better than last time we met, Franz.
– Thanks.
At one point, the mother stared at Franz and pinched him around the waist from the side where Marianne
could not see it.
-Um, Miss Marianne is even more beautiful than I remember.
My mother taught Franz a lot, who was rather passive, including greetings and compliments.
-You are only interested in birds and beetles. How can you not know how a woman feels if you have a sister?
Having a sister and knowing a woman’s heart are two different things, but I didn’t correct it.
In addition, he is always expected to comment like “Your hair is beautiful today” or “The color of the dress you are wearing today really suits you, Miss Marianne.” All this was prepared by our mother.
Marianne looked at Franz knowingly, and her smile became a little more cheerful:
– I don’t know why, I didn’t think I looked good … But thanks.
The smile still looked very awkward, but I don’t think I was the only one who felt it. Franz’s smile hardened
and faded.- It will be easier for you to stay with the girls than with me, so I will leave you alone.
– Mister Franz, we will be happy to have a conversation with you.
– No. I think there are topics that the ladies would like to discuss among themselves. – Franz lowered his head
slightly and hurried out. There was no doubt that we would have had a good chat with Ophelia and Iris. But Franz seems to be avoiding Marianne.
We entered the room where Ophelia and Iris were staying. Marianne’s luggage was carried to the room opposite Franz.
– Are you looking for a school for Mr. Franz?
– My father left it to me. So I am looking for a good place.
In fact, the decision on the school has already been made. But I pretended to go through the options.
– What did Franz say?
-I don’t think he’s very happy, but he didn’t seem to mind …
– I hope he gets used to it. -Marianne must have cared that Franz was being bullied.
– Me too. And Franz is so soft that he never fights, even if he knows how to fight. It worries me.
– Because Mr. Franz is good.
A barely perceptible smile crossed the lips of Marianne, who was staring at the cup. Her face was different
from what she showed Franz.
– What does Marianne think of our Franz?
Unconsciously, the question that was spinning in my head popped out of my mouth. But I pretended not to beembarrassed, took the cup and took a sip. Marianne looked at me with a stony expression on her face. Whatis she thinking about?
– I think he is my fiancé.
Laconic.
– And it’s all?
– Yes. Should I say something else?
– No, that’s enough.
– If you have any questions, I will answer them in more detail.
I shook my head. Even if I asked, I don’t think it would be very different from her previous answer.
I have been very interested in Marianne’s feelings for Franz for a long time. Do you consider him a weak
brother? Or do you think of him as a must-have friend? What do you personally think of my brother,
regardless of the relationship between man and woman?
However, the social status of Marianne herself was so small that no one was interested in her opinion.
Standing next to Marianne, who looked gorgeous and grown-up, Franz looked just like a child. The attitude towards each other towards them was dry, like that of colleagues.
However, what was surprising was that when Franz disappeared after being kidnapped by Estella and Kayla disappeared, it was Duke Dmirov who began their massive search.
At that time, the Marquis and his wife Vesta were very sick because all their children had disappeared. On
behalf of Vesta’s family, Marianne Dmirov formally requested a search party. She later convinced her fatherto rebel when Aster became Crown Prince and destroyed Vesta’s family.One day, Franz tried to lead a detachment of knights in order to save his bride, who was kidnapped and imprisoned in the palace. Of course he failed.
That’s why I was curious. What did Franz Marianne Dmirov think of Franz Marianne? For some reason,
Duke Dmirov was the first to propose an engagement. Was Franz, a weak man, a son-in-law who attracted them? Why did Marianne accept her parents’ offer? Now that I am the head of the family, Franz is left with nothing but Shitsuro. Therefore, it was doubtful that Duke Dmirov had not yet said that they should break off the engagement.
– I’m glad that Franz has a sister like Kayla. I can count on you. Marianne smiled at me. The smile was very natural, unlike when she spoke to Franz. I liked Marianne as a friend. Marianne’s bright and mature
appearance made her older than her peers, and her unique expressionless face, indifferent eyes and cold
tone were often misunderstood. But, as I noticed, Marianne is very nice. She may be indifferent, but still attentive. Therefore, I hope that Marianne will be happy with the person she loves.
***
For lunch we were served roast piglets, turkey and deer. My father made the chef do a great job, since my
friends were visiting us.
– Kayla surprised me when she said that she was going to the Kratie Boarding Academy, – the father shared his memories. I was tormented by a vague anxiety that he would say something superfluous, and for good reason – I often worried that she was constantly at home, did not make friends, did nothing after the coming of-age ceremony, did not go out into society. Oh, father, why are you even talking about this ?! Also with friends!
– And suddenly she herself decided to enter the academy and already there, again herself, made friends. I
can’t believe that this is my Kayla, I worry about her all the time.
Well, why can’t you sink into the ground at will? I really wanted it now.
-There is no cause for concern, Your Excellency. Kayla is doing well.
Good Ophelia protects me. Thank you, friend.
– So it is: Kayla was invited to the women’s living room by Lady Leodora herself and took first place in the
vote.I hurried to change the subject of the conversation when my father laughed contentedly at the girl’s words:
-Father, the house in Hwando has few rooms, so Ophelia, Iris and I will be living in my room.
– Is your room too small? You can take the largest room in the house.
– Truth? Thank you father!The main estate of the Vesta family had many rooms, but the houses in Hwando, due to the high cost of land, were not initially spacious. Fortunately, Vesta was able to buy a small villa in Hwando near Berg Station, like several other families. In order to build a large mansion on the territory of Hwando, you need to have a decent amount of money. Only members of the imperial family, Count Schreman or Duke Dmirov, could afford such a thing.
Nobles always spend a lot of money, especially during the high season: when there are a lot of parties, they throw away more than half of their annual budget. I thought it was better to have an average level of social status, but my parents from this year planned to enter the high society of Hwando.
– I always wanted to build a huge mansion on the territory of Hwando. Then you will feel more comfortable. In addition, it is faster and easier to join the knights from Hwando than from the Vesta estate, and this is beneficial from a social point of view.
If I were a Marquis, the first thing I would do would be to sell the house in Hwando. It would be better not to approach the imperial palace and not think of the villa in Hwando as a permanent residence. In the not too distant future, Hwando will become dangerous. Aster will take over the imperial palace with his wizard
followers. Many knights will be killed by magicians while protecting the emperor, empress and princes.
Everyone who opposed Estella will also be destroyed. Moreover, he will destroy the entire Vesta family in
order to deprive Franz of his home and protection. If the story develops according to the original, then all this will happen in two years. That is why it does not matter whether Estella and Franz meet in the future: the bloody wind that Estella carries with him is inevitable.Therefore, I must be ready to protect my brother, myself and my family in this carnage. Again, the best way isto keep Franz out of sight while helping him become Master Shitsuro. A magical shield with absolutedefensive power that can stop any attack.
If Franz becomes Master Shitsuro, he will live quieter than water below the grass, without Aster’s eyes.
– Kayla, don’t you like lunch? – Mom asked anxiously.
– No, mom, everything is very tasty.
– You suddenly darkened, I became worried.
– I was thinking about where to go with my friends.
– Tell me later how you decide.
I nodded with a smile, slowly looking around. My parents, Franz, Ophelia, Iris and Marianne enjoyed dinner. The atmosphere at the table was quite warm. It was nice to be surrounded by family and friends, but somehow I felt superfluous. It seemed to me that my whole body was floating on water. Whenever this happened, another consciousness that slept inside me spoke to me:
-You don’t need to think about Aster every second, do you? Enjoy the happiness of this moment, everything is in order. You went through a lot in your past life. So you deserve to be happy enough in this life.
A harmonious family, a rich life – everything that I have long dreamed of since my previous life. A world where
I don’t have to work and worry about money with my parents who protect me.
Everything was perfect, but my brother was not here. Not Franz Vesta, but my real brother.
I wanted you to live in such conditions …
***
In my past life, my brother was over 10 years old. Due to the death of my parents who died in the accident, my younger brother was a child for me. We had to move from one relative to another many times so that at least someone could take care of us for some time.
The day we boarded the train, I felt anxious about my younger brother, who had to transfer again. The brother said, holding my hand tightly:
– I want to stay here and not be transferred to a new school.
– Because this time you don’t want to part with your friends?
The younger brother nodded. He was so shy that he had a hard time making friends. Those who appeared here became especially close to their brother. He was very sorry to part with his friends.
But we could not stay here any longer. My uncle said that his aunt’s health had deteriorated, so he didn’t have time to take care of us.
– I realized. A little patience. I was thinking of dropping out of college and taking two part-time jobs. If I get a job at a small company, I was thinking of studying at the Korea Communications University. To do this, I also needed an adult who would take care of my younger brother, because he should not be left unattended for too long.
– Sister, I’ll be fine in the orphanage.
– No, I will never send you there.
– I have to go to the orphanage to make my sister feel comfortable.
– Where did you get such thoughts?
-… uncle said.
Relatives several times advised me to send my younger brother to an orphanage. And when I get settled,
take it back. Even if I manage to get a job in college, it will be very difficult for my younger brother. But I
couldn’t, I just couldn’t keep my only blood away from me. So I lived with my younger brother, even if it was
too hard at times.
I need adult help while I was out of work,Even if I have to move in with relatives. So we moved to a place where we had a relative to take care of my younger brother while I was away. But I didn’t take into account that these frequent moves are bad for the emotional development of the child. Without home, friends, my
brother’s heart was restless and always anxious. He didn’t learn to get along with children his age. I thought that he was just very shy, but then I still did not understand all the seriousness.
All my thoughts were borrowing money and the house in which we would settle. Apart from that, there was nothing I could do.
***
– The necklace is too short. It’s not so nice to see young girls wearing too fashionable jewelry. There is not enough harmony in the image, don’t you agree?
– If you look closely at the light purple bodice, you will see that it depicts a forget-me-not.
– Oh, how sweet. – Mother held in her hands a light purple bodice handed by a tailor. The bodice was very cute, with cream lace on the satin – can’t we turn that into a headpiece? Young ladies, preparing for their debut, have already decided on the bodice.
– Understand. Did you say that you are making your debut at the Schumanix mansion and not at the palace?
-Some of the girls were not invited to the palace, the mother replied delicately. Ophelia and Iris were not allowed into the palace, so they decided to debut at my uncle’s house. And Count Schumanix’s mansion in Hwando was larger than our original mansion. There was enough room for the ball.
-I beg your pardon, Marquis. In the Schumanix mansion, the hall is large, the staircase is wide, and it will be unforgettable to debut there.
-I heard that Vesta’s house also has a separate residence in Hwando. Would you like to make your debut there? the owner of the boutique asked my mother. News about the first debuts, grandiose and not so great, was important information for them.
-Our residence in Hwando is too small. This is not the best place for a banquet.
My uncle said he would help me and my friends debut together. I postponed my debut so much, and I was
lucky to get rid of it all at once. Fortunately, this was not a group debut at the palace, otherwise I would have had to greet many aristocratic families. In addition, they had to go to the center of the hall one by one with the partner they came with and dance the waltz.
Since there were a lot of people, you need to pay more attention to the dress you are going to wear than at other times. A debut outfit should certainly be in delicate shades, such as cream, pale pink or powdery. To stand out, you’ll have to redesign with skirts, laces and ribbons. As a result, you will have to spend a round amount of money.
-The ready-made clothes you gave us are quite enough, marquis. Ophelia and Iris were frightened by their mother’s determination. The woman waved her hand casually.
– I’ll just add some size decorations.
The ready-made clothes that Mom bought in advance were significantly larger than Ophelia and Iris’ sizes.
Mother decided to add ribbons and frills to each dress, making her friends’ dresses reminiscent of my own, which I was about to wear.
– Let’s just enjoy the rest.
We were all in our underwear and drinking tea in the boutique break room while Mom was talking to the boutique owner.
– Is it okay that we got so much from you? I’m not sure what I need to do to properly thank the Marquis. Ophelia looked anxiously at her mother. Iris nodded in agreement.
– Everything is fine. I appreciate both of you so much that my mother could not have done otherwise.
– But I don’t think that …
– Just humble yourself and have fun.
Mom bought them a petticoat because Ophelia and Iris didn’t have enough petticoats to make the dress more puffy.
– I can’t believe that I will have my debut. I need to write a letter to my parents. Iris fiddled with the petticoat she was wearing. Baron Klein, who had a title and no estate, rarely appeared in aristocratic society. He appeared at secular meetings of aristocrats only thanks to his connections and relatives above. For the Klein family, who were almost considered commoners, Iris’s debut was a very distant dream.
– My mother has already sent a letter to your parents and received permission for your debut.
Ophelia and Iris’ parents allowed the girls not only to stay in my house. My mother was determined to give Ophelia and Iris a very special experience. This is not a single shot, but a continuous shot.
-… Thank you, Kayla. Thank you very much, marquis. Iris’s eyes turned slightly red. Ophelia held Iris’s hand tightly.
-I’m so happy that I too will have a wonderful experience thanks to you. Thanks, Kayla.
They felt burdened with an unexpected gift from their mother, but, fortunately, they were not upset. No, I think they are quite happy. I quietly called the girls by name:
-I’ll tell my mother and me: we are very glad that you are here.
I did not expect my mother to secretly write a petition and even use my signature. Despite the clear violation of the law, I was very grateful for everything. So I let my mother do whatever. Because I also wanted to do something for them.
– Between us, we just wanted to spend time with you. Trust me.
For some reason, Ophelia’s words touched me. To be honest, I was a little … well, very moved. Friends. Kayla Vesta’s original friends lived too far away to form a trusting relationship. When I arrived here, anxiety about the future and attempts to change it came to the fore, so I did not have friends either.
Then I remembered my past life. Even then, I was busy eating and surviving, so there was no one to be my friend. Like my colleagues, I had acquaintances whom I met in society, but it was difficult to maintain friendship because I could not afford it. Not only did my brother, but I also have no friends in the house.
Ding-dilin.
The bell on the boutique door rang as I sank to the floor, lost in thought. Hearing the footsteps of light shoes and the sound of sweeping the floor of long clothes, I realized that someone was climbing the stairs.
– Someone is coming, girls!
We hurriedly put on light dresses made in the boutique. Only special clients could go up to the second floor. Since the waiting room is already occupied by us, no one will come in, but I was nervous anyway, because everyone was in their underwear. At this time, my mother called out to the man who had already opened the door to the waiting room:
– Oh, God, Countess Eiser!
When I turned my head back, I saw Countess Eiser, mother of Ritaus. Why did she come?
– Marquis Vesta! Oh, Lady Kayla.
I smiled awkwardly and bent my knees to say hello. With one hand, I held both sides of the dress tightly.
– Are you embarrassed that you are in your underwear? Don’t worry, there are only girls in the room, and my son is not accompanying me today.
Indeed, I was relieved to see that only the maid was left behind Countess Eiser.
-You have become even more beautiful since we last met. But who are these cute girls in the back?
-These are my friends from the Academy. Let me introduce Miss Ophelia of the Kautz family and Baroness Iris Klein.
Ophelia and Iris also stood up to greet Countess Eiser.
– I’m taking them to the party.
– You mean the Shreman mansion you talked about? Debut? I envy you. I would also be glad to do it if I had a daughter, – Countess Eiser came up and looked with envy at Ophelia and Iris. I was embarrassed to stand next to her, because I unilaterally broke up with Ritaus. However, after the breakup, I was told that my mother and Countess Eiser met often, maintaining a good relationship.
-But what are you doing here, Countess?
The boutique we went to was a famous store with single young women as the main customers. The dresses here were not for the age of my mother and Countess Eiser. Countess Eiser took off her hat:
-A distant relative of mine is staying at my house, so I came here to buy hair ornaments and hats.
– How old is the lady? – The owner of the boutique approached Countess Eiser with an employee. -She is their age, maybe a little younger.
Countess Eiser smiled at us.
– We were just choosing jewelry for our debut. Let’s choose together. -My mother left us alone and started choosing hats with Countess Eiser. I motioned for my friends to change and sent Ophelia and Iris to the dressing room. Until then, the Countess and Mother considered feathers and ornaments for hats and headdresses.
– What color is her hair?
– Pink, no. Blond, almost platinum.
– What color is her eyes?
– They’re purple. Amethyst colors.
-Is that the rumored beautiful niece?
Countess Eiser mysteriously smiled at her mother’s question. The niece must be the same girl who debuted with Count Eiser that Iris mentioned earlier.
– I also heard rumors. Rumor has it that she is Sir Ritaus’s new fiancée?
Countess Eiser could not help laughing at the words of the boutique owner.
– Um, bride? It’s not like that at all. But the rumors are so interesting. Heh!
– I would very much like to see her, Countess Eiser.
– I’m going with her to a party at the Shreman mansion, where I was invited. Then you will see.
– Oh, she’s coming too. Finally, I can meet her. I’m impatient!
My mother, Countess Eiser, and the owner of the boutique chatted for a long time. I sighed without realizing it. I can’t wait to get home.
It was only after Iris was the first to leave the dressing room that I was able to enter it with my clothes.
***
The number of servants had to be reduced due to the lack of extra rooms in the house of the Imperial Capital. I decided to share a room with Marianne, Ophelia and Iris will live in Franz’s room. Franz, giving up his room, settled in a small office.
In Franz’s luggage, I found a very interesting and reliable account of the bird habitat in Trausen. I think he
liked it. Franz read the book all day until the ball in Schumanix. It is worth keeping it secretly in the library of our mansion. He could not help but be attracted to wild birds.
– Looks like you are carried away by a new book? I asked innocently. Franz raised his head, looking up from reading, and smiled:
-There are migratory birds in Troisin that you cannot see here. They themselves are small, and the color of the feather is bronze. I really want to see them in person.
Oh, that’s a good sign. Franz was definitely interested in the Trojans.
– Are you going on a trip?
Franz laughed lightly when I poked him in the side.
-Too far to travel. It’s almost on the border. And now I have to go back to the Academy. I won’t have time to travel.
Franz’s face became very sad. And I made a knight’s move:
-Maybe we should take a look at the school … in the area? Of course, if you like.
– Can I really do it?
Franz’s eyes widened. I was even more embarrassed because my voice was so high. Franz’s interest in Troisin exceeded all my expectations.
– Well, yes, let’s find out if there is an academy for visiting the nobility?
– Thanks, Sister. Please. I really want to go to Troisin one day.
If he stays at the Oculus boarding school in Troisin, Franz can survive, and more than once. At that moment Franz was happy, not knowing about my intrigues.
– Franz, we’re leaving soon. How long are you going to read the book? Mother grumbled from the lobby. -I just flipped through it while I waited, Mom. You were no longer receiving.
– Initially, women take a long time to prepare. Men who just dress and do their hair cannot understand this.
Franz smiled awkwardly. Among women, I was the first to complete the training. The girls had finished packing one by one, and now Marianne and Ophelia had already descended.
-Look, my daughter, who is usually just pretty, is dazzling because she is dressed like a lady. – Seeing me, my mother smiled proudly. The color of the dress I wore was a bold design that fully exposed my shoulders in
light blue. Instead of sleeves, there were long gloves that reached the forearm.
It is breathtaking. The debut dress without straight shoulder straps was exclusively in my mother’s taste. I chose a fairly simple design and a white dress, but my opinion was immediately ignored.
Iris opted for a light pink dress, and the boring cut was diversified with dark pink lace at my mother’s suggestion.
– Kayla, isn’t it too noticeable? I’ve never dressed like that before. Can I wear this for my debut? Iris looked in the mirror; sadness and anticipation were combined on her face in an unusual way.
– You seem to have left the picture, so beautiful.
– Well, today’s stars should stand out. You should be visible immediately, even if you step aside somewhere. My mother was pleased when she saw Iris. This was understandable because she chose an outfit for each. At this time, the sound of steps descending the stairs was greeted with joyful exclamations from the mother:
– As expected, my choice is correct.
The light yellow dress that Ophelia wore was cute with white lace sleeves and light green ribbons.
– Ophelia, you look great!
It was amazing to see her dressed in such a dress and with her hair braided in pigtails. The cute and cute design matched very well with Ophelia.
-You look great in both dress and bodice. I’m sure I’m not mistaken.
Me, Ophelia and Iris put on a corsage of flowers and lace on my chest to show who the main character of tonight is. The bouquets and everything else was prepared by my mother.
On the other hand, Marianne looked very mature, unlike Ophelia, Iris and myself, who wore debutante dresses. She looked like a very mature lady.
-Forgive me for making you wait so long, Marianne looked at Franz, who all this time was patiently standing at the door. My brother lifted the corners of his lips in a smile, but without even realizing it, he stepped back.
– Franz, show Miss Marianne!
Marianne chose a dress of a color and design that made her look very mature, which made it impossible to say that she was only sixteen years old. It was a deep wine-colored dress with an open back. Her red hair is pulled back to one side and her accessories are made of diamonds. In such an adult outfit, she did not lose her charm and looked dazzling.
Franz approached cautiously and held out his hand to Marianne. Marianne put her hand very elegantly on Franz’s.
Oh my goodness…
This pair really didn’t look very harmonious. If Franz preferred a soft style, then Marianne was the opposite of him, choosing a luxurious look.
– Franz, sit next to Marianne.
Hearing his mother’s order, Franz helped Marianne get into the carriage first. Allowing Marianne to lean on his arm, Franz supported her behind her to prevent the girl from falling. This is exactly what two people look like, between whom you did not feel a single gram of chemistry. The fire in Franz’s eyes, which appeared after reading the book, went out because he was with Marianne and her great style.
We rented a large four-wheeled carriage. Eight people were allowed into the carriage, with servants and maids in another carriage. Thus, the two carts left the estate and headed towards my mother’s house, the Schumaniks mansion.
The night streets of the Imperial capital sparkled with glass lamps, in which a fire was burning. -It’s night now, but the streets are as bright as day. How beautiful!
Looking out the carriage window at such a street, Ophelia and Iris were very happy. And I had fun because I liked watching them.
When we arrived at Count Schumanix, many people had already gathered in the main hall. A chamber orchestra played a gentle melody, while servants handed out drinks to the guests.
Today I decided to dance with my father for the first time. Marianne was chosen as partners to Franz, Ophelia and Iris – my cousins, the sons of Count Schumanix.
-These girls are my friends at the Academy.
– Nice to meet you, Countess Schumanix
-It is a great honor for me to meet you, Countess.
Ophelia and Iris straightened their skirts and bent their knees to say hello.
-These are my sons, your partners today. First, Kristen Schumanix. Second, Allen Schumanix. Pretty good, aren’t they? -The aunt introduced them to the cousins who were supposed to be partners with Ophelia and Iris. While Kristen and Allen were 21 and 23 respectively.
– I will do everything to make this evening unforgettable, lady, – each of the cousins went up to his partner and kissed her on the back of his hand.
– Oh my God!
Ophelia and Iris were embarrassed at the sight of their rather pretty cousins. Relieved when I realized that my friends liked their partners, I saw a familiar figure passing by. The man had a slender body, a long, thin face, blond hair, and a pleasant aura. The young man turned his head and smiled at me, probably because he felt my gaze.
Nicholas Chiade.
– Why is he here?
My father was surprised when I turned my head in the direction where my hand was pointing:
– Indeed, why?
– Oh my God.
Our whole company looked embarrassed. Franz turned pale.
– We do not remember inviting him. I know exactly what Kayla and Franz went through, so how did he get here?
– Uncle, Count Schumanix, hastily muttered. Marianne stared at Nicholas and quietly opened her mouth.
-I think he came as a beau for Lady Elijah, third daughter of Earl Rossman. The Rossman and Chiade families have a special relationship.
Mom raised her voice again as the atmosphere of our party quickly escalated.
-Today is a memorable day, so let’s not ruin our mood over this. Enjoy your time!
– Yes, today I will not mind. Let’s go upstairs, Ophelia, Iris! – deciding to freshen up the atmosphere, I hurried up the stairs of the main hall and entered the living room on the second floor. When the party starts, I, Ophelia and Iris will be introduced. Until then, we had to wait in this living room.
– Marvelous. I didn’t expect Nicholas Chiade to be here …
– And not ashamed of him? How dare he come here?
Ophelia and Iris are angry at the appearance of Nicholas Chiade. We slipped out of the reception area and looked down to the main hall below the stairs.
-There are so many people here.
-They are all nobles, but what if they asked why there’s a commoner here? Ophelia’s frightened eyes filled with tears again.
-It’s all right, Ophelia. Everyone there knows about it. It was written in the invitation. Iris, who was looking down, called out to me in surprise as I stroked Ophelia:
-Isn’t that Sir Ritaus over there?-
My eyes immediately turned to the main hall under the stairs. Ritaus in a dark green dress coat and his mother, Countess Eiser, entered the main hall.
– You guys broke up. Today we are meeting with all the people with whom we would not like. -Wouldn’t it be perfect if only Leodora were here?
It was hard to grin and laugh at Iris’s jokes. As expected, my mother and father greeted Countess Eiser. Even when Ritaus and I parted, they still got along well, so they invited me to my debut.
I had a bad feeling. Very, very bad. Is it because of Nicholas or Ritaus? Or is there another reason I don’t know yet?
The party soon began and our names were announced. Going down the stairs, we saw my two cousins and Ritaus. Ritaus, not my father, who was supposed to be my partner. Ophelia and Iris looked at me anxiously as my cousins led them into the center of the room. I could not take a step towards Ritaus, who held out his hand to me. What’s going on here? I turned to my father. Father and mother smiled and waved at me. Oh, now I see.
Seeing my confusion, the guests began to whisper with curiosity:
– Didn’t they break up?
-But I heard that their families are still good friends.
– Why did they break off the engagement?
I didn’t want to hear any more words, so I finally put my hand on Ritaus’s fingers. We went to the center of the hall and greeted the aristocrats according to an ancient tradition. Soon the calm music stopped. There was a short pause. It will soon be time for the debutantes to show their first dance.
Ritaus leaned over to me, holding my hand. It was a greeting between partners before they started dancing. Ophelia and Iris bowed slightly to their partners. I also gently took Ritaus’s hand and bent my knees as a token of courtesy.
In contrast to the tender melody earlier, a faster tempo was heard. Ritaus’s hand rested on my waist, and my hand rested on Ritaus’s shoulder. Ritaus took a step, starting to dance. The ex-fiance’s eyes were fixed on me all the time, so I had to look the other way.
From afar I saw my parents and Countess Eiser joyfully looking at us. Parents really want our reunion. Therefore, they created this situation. I couldn’t help but furrow my brows.
-It just occurred to me now, Ritaus spoke first. When I turned my eyes to Ritaus, he dodged my gaze.
– If you started talking, then you must finish. What are you thinking about now? – I was persistent, because I wanted to hear the thought as soon as possible and end the conversation. However, Ritaus paused. Then he spoke slowly:
-I thought we hadn’t danced in years. Do you remember?
When I was suddenly asked about the past, I was a little embarrassed and could not answer.
– Now for the second time.
What are we talking about? What’s the second? Kayla had some memories, but they didn’t help because they were fragmentary.
-The first time we danced was the day the engagement ceremony took place.
Our engagement to Ritaus? I can’t remember. This information was not important to me, so it was quickly replaced by other memories.
– I’ve been engaged for many years, and now I’m dancing for the second time. At this thought, I suddenly felt bitter.
Why do you feel bitterness?
– Sorry to interrupt, but you and I broke up, – I thought that I should stop talking to Ritaus, – I don’t understand what you are trying to say now.
Ritaus looked at me in silence for a moment. Why did he suddenly become sentimental?
– I apologize for my rudeness. I think I was too arrogant about the Vesta family.
I almost stumbled over Ritaus’s unexpected apology. What’s the matter with him? Ritaus is strange today. Already twice confused me, and only in one dance. I was reminded of his eyes again, looking at me as if he were nothing on the day of the dissolution of the engagement.
– This is already in the past, we are no longer in a relationship.
I was weighed down by his gaze, so throughout the dance I looked in the other direction. Round and round. Depending on the steps, my body continued to rotate instead of being in one place. And then a familiar face flashed through the crowd. A girl with beautifully styled platinum hair in a silvery white glittery dress. The girl’s purple eyes were fixed on me. I got goosebumps when I met the girl’s eyes. However, when my body turned to follow Ritaus’s steps, I lost sight of her. Keeping a close eye on the crowd, I finally found the girl. And again our eyes met.
Aster.
Why is Estella here? How? He does not appear in public places. So why?
At that moment, I looked at Ritaus, who was dancing with his head held high.
– By any chance, there are no other guests with you except Countess Eiser? -… Yes, Ritaus answered with a slight pause. He seemed to hesitate.
– Estella Eiser?
Ritaus answered my question rather evasively:
– The letter and gift you sent to Estella have been delivered. That’s it.
– I also explained well why you could not come that day. An urgent situation arose, so you had no other choice.
Ritaus stopped for a moment, removed his hand from my waist and turned me over. I almost missed a step, focusing on the conversation.
– Estella… understand everything?
– Yes, I explained well.
– Thanks.
Fortunately, Ritaus was an exemplary student. He took my side in front of Aster. In addition, he apologized to me today. At that moment, Ritaus looked different.
– If Estella sends you another invitation, ignore it.
– What?
With Ritaus’ sudden words, the chamber orchestra music was cut short. Ritaus stopped and bowed politely.
– Congratulations on the holidays.
In disbelief, I knelt down to finish the dance. What Ritaus had told me echoed in my ears. -If Estella sends you another invitation, ignore it.- What does it mean?
I wanted to ask him more, but Ritaus had already left. When I approached the place where my parents were sitting, Ophelia continued to apologize to her partner Kristen.
-I’m really, really sorry. I stepped on my feet so many times …
– It’s all right, this is your first time.
Kristen said everything was fine, but Ophelia continued to apologize. She was so nervous that she mercilessly stepped on Kristen’s feet with a pointed heel.
While he and Iris were reassuring Ophelia, I felt someone move behind my back.
– Yes, Ophelia. This is your first time.
After a moment’s silence, Iris and Ophelia’s eyes widened. Franz, who was sitting next to Marianne, jumped up.
– …you!
Franz’s face was angry, so I quickly looked around.
– Hello, Kayla Vesta.
Standing in front of me was Nicholas Chiade, blond with high self-esteem and a cheeky smile.
-You said you broke up, but you chose Sir Ritaus as your first dance partner. There will be rumors in society.
People have already paid attention to us. The musicians played the next tune, but I felt that the audience was gathering around us one by one.
– Who is this young man who has just approached the Vesta family?
– Nicholas Chiade.
– I heard that there was a problem between the two families.
– It’s a little different from what I’ve heard. I heard that Nicholas Chiade proposed to Miss Kayla Vesta.
– Oh, how sweet. But what just happened? The eldest daughter of the Vesta family has just danced with Sir Ritaus. Aren’t they engaged?
-It’s been a long time since they parted, my lady.
– Oh, God, what will happen now?
Many stories burst into a fountain at once, creating a discordant hum. This seemed to provide them with a good evening experience. Soon Nicholas bent down and asked, holding out his hand in front of me:
– Will you allow me to invite you to the next dance?
Amazing.
As soon as I was about to refuse, Franz blocked the way for me and Nicholas.
– Sorry, but I’m the next partner of my sister …
– No, Franz. Now you must dance with Marianne for the first time.
– And then father, then cousins and uncle.
No, after the first dance I decided not to dance at all. Don’t decide for me what order of partners will be in my dances . I wanted to be indignant, but I didn’t want to dance with Nicholas, so I said nothing. Listening condescendingly to Franz, Nicholas turned his head and looked at me:
– I don’t think you should dance with your family on a day like this.
I felt the same way, but I hated even the thought of dancing with Nicholas.
– As not obliged to dance with you. Father came forward:
-I don’t know how you dared to shamelessly appear before my family, trying to hurt not only Franz, but Kayla as well.
Nicholas turned to his father, who was a head taller than Nicholas. His shoulders and appearance also stunned the 16-year-old.
– Glad to meet you, Marquis, Marquis. Much time has passed since the events with Franz.
Next to my father, the short and thin Nicholas seemed even smaller. I don’t think I’ve ever felt such pressure from my father as I do now.
– At the Kratie Academy they said that you are studying in a knight’s class? – asked the father of Nicholas.
– Yes. – the impudent Nicholas did not remove the smile from his face.
-I assure you, you will never join the Guardian Knights. Even if my reputation falls, I will not allow you to take over as commander.
– Oh, what a shame! But that’s okay. My family has a strong knightly order, and my father has a prestigious place. I don’t have to be a Guardian Knight. Despite his father’s discouraging pressure, Nicholas did not give up and calmly parried the threat.- I want to get rid of all the bad feelings I had. I think there was a little
misunderstanding between us, so why don’t we solve it?
His father’s fists shook at Nicholas’s insolent words. Franz’s thin voice rang out:
– Misunderstanding? Even if you did this to me, what you did to my sister is still a misunderstanding? Is it a misunderstanding when men surround an unarmed woman?
– I myself am ashamed. Franz, you’re right now, – Nicholas, who Franz was about to attack, suddenly bowed and apologized, – this will help us all forget about what was happening, right?
I couldn’t feel the sincerity on my face, smiling and apologizing in return. It’s just … you’re surprisingly very thick-skinned. The exposure is amazing. I could not see it silently, but I thought I should clarify the situation.
– Please, father. Too many people are watching us.
They are delighted to rummage in someone else’s dirty laundry. Crossing my arms over my chest, I looked directly at Nicholas.
-Nicholas, I don’t want to dance anymore. I’m sorry.
I tried to end the situation by rejecting Nicholas, but it suddenly became noisy outside the main hall. Some strange buzzing sound. I also heard people running outside.
– What’s happening?
My father, too, glanced out the window with the attention with which he looked at Nicholas. Outside noise spilled over into the ballroom. People were pulling up to the exit from the hall, not daring to leave it. When the most curious came out, everyone followed them.
Taking advantage of the crowd, I left where Nicholas was. When I moved away from the crowd and left the main hall, I understood why this excitement had occurred. Outside the mansion, the colorful carriage was surrounded by people as if they had just arrived. Not one carriage, but four. The square was surrounded by Guardian Knights in blue uniforms.
Guardian Knights? The faces of my father and uncle who went out into the street were embarrassed. They looked like they knew nothing.
The people who left returned to the main hall, accompanied by a man in a flowered dress coat. The man sounded a fanfare and shouted at the top of his voice:
– His Majesty!!!
The noisy hall fell silent. As the red carpet was being laid, the Knights-Guardians in blue uniforms lined up to either side of it. Those who were hurrying back lowered their heads in unison, and I followed their example.
Emperor? Why is he here? I have never heard of the Emperor’s visit. There was a whisper on either side of me:
– What is the Emperor doing here?
-I don’t think the empress or princes are here.
– Did Count Schumanix know?
My uncle was also surprised, so the Emperor’s visit seemed unplanned. The Emperor was sitting on a hastily prepared chair, and his uncle, Count Schumanix, stood by. Father, too, hurriedly stood beside the Emperor.
– I jumped along the road. Last time Count Schumanix said that he would be very grateful if I came to the banquet. This is why I am here. Shouldn’t I have come?
– Please, Your Majesty. This is an honor for our family.
The emperor laughed as his uncle lowered his head again. At the same time, the whispers of people around him continued to hover around the hall. The voices were so low they didn’t even reach the Emperor’s ears.
-He never came at the invitation of other families.
– Count Shreman, in fact, did not know that he would come.
– Why is he here?
– Maybe this is the case? 16 years ago …
– Shhh, today we have invited a family close to Her Majesty. You better refrain from talking like that.
I wanted to hear a sequel, but no more secret stories were heard. What happened 16 years ago? When something appeared that was not in the original, I was very nervous.
– Everyone, raise your heads.
By order of the Emperor, everyone in the main hall straightened up. The impression from the Emperor was not very bright, who looked very thin and haggard. The Emperor looked around and smiled helplessly.
– I came in because I remembered my youth. I won’t be staying long, so don’t worry about me and enjoy the evening.
I wanted to ask: -What was that?- But I knew very well where and when to keep silent. A sound from the side caught my attention. I moved aside and looked at the Emperor from a distance. The emperor was not a very handsome middle-aged man with a pale but slightly dark complexion. I looked at Aster’s biological father, but did not find a strong resemblance; most likely, he looked more like his mother.
Looking at the Emperor, I felt another look on me. Aster, the purple-eyed protagonist, dressed as a girl but a hidden prince who will turn the palace upside down in the future.
Today Estella was wearing a large shawl that covered him from neck to back and wrists. As much as I think, it suits him very much. This scam seemed to make him attractive, no matter how absurd my thought may sound.
Aster slowly approached me, and I wondered what he was thinking. Without realizing it, I backed away. Suddenly it’s not him. It could be someone like him. But Ritaus said that Estella Eiser is here. Then this person is Aster.
I turned and took refuge in the crowd, hiding from Estella. Aster, who had lost me, began to look around. Bending down, I cautiously climbed the stairs and hid behind the large railing. Lowering his head, Aster looked around as if he was still looking for someone. Maybe me. What do you want to talk about when you meet
me? No matter how well you dress as a woman, you are beautiful as a girl in your own right. However, if he was now 15 years old, his voice should have started to break. In the original novel, he did not speak at all to hide his voice in front of Franz. So, at the first meeting, Franz mistook Estella for a girl. He did not hear his voice.
Anyway, now I’m surprised. Will it carry me if I hide like this?
I couldn’t avoid him forever, although I didn’t know where I would stumble upon him. But I cannot allow Franz and Estella to meet like this. Why do I want to send Franz to a girls’ school? The most important reason is to keep Aster and Ritaus in sight. I wanted to prevent them from meeting their brother as much as possible, but it is difficult, so Franz should not meet with them until he becomes Master Shitsuro.
Meanwhile, Aster’s behavior was also volatile. I don’t know why you are interested in me. I don’t know if this interest is good or bad. I didn’t know that it was Aster at Berg station, but I didn’t know that everything would be connected. Does this world really need all the key figures around Franz? Is that why you have to intervene through me?
I looked down again with concern, but the Emperor was not visible from above. Considering that my uncle, Count Schumanix, is also out of sight, is he not leading the Emperor to the mansion?
I saw where my family was in case they were looking for me. But Aster passed by his relatives. Just a few steps away, I saw Franz with Marianne, Ophelia and Iris.
No no no no! I don’t know about the others, but I will never let Aster run into Franz! I hurriedly ran down the stairs.
– Sorry, wait!
By the time I got to the family, I saw Franz playing with our cousins. Kristen mimicked boxing a little, while Franz and Allen had fun avoiding him.
Aster, looking around, walked straight to Franz. When Aster caught up with my brother, Franz, avoiding Kristen’s joke blow, lost his balance. From that moment on, all the movements looked like slow motion to me. I desperately pushed people away and reached out to grab Aster’s wrist. When I pulled Asterur to me, Franz, almost bumping into Estella, fell to the floor.
Pang!
Although it was noisy behind, Aster stared at me holding his hand. Thank God Aster did not see Franz. Instead, he looked at me, but …
-You were looking for me, weren’t you? – I was in a hurry to distract Aster from the noise behind his back. But I had nothing to worry about. A flower-like smile blossomed on Aster’s face. Can’t believe this kid in front of me is a guy? The gazes of the men turned to Estella.
– Hey Franz! Are you okay?
– Are you all right, Mister Franz?
My cousins and Marianne helped Franz up. I jumped out of the main hall with Estella. After a long run down the hallway, the main hall seemed small.
What are we going to do now? Aster and I are now alone in an empty corridor.
– Oh, well, this is …
While I was choosing what to say first, Aster took a small notebook and a pencil from his pocket under his skirt. He made a note on a notepad and handed it to me.
-You remembered me again, didn’t you?-
I raised my eyes and looked at Estella, reading the words in the notebook. Aster is still slightly below me. His eyes sparkled as he looked at me. What is he thinking about?
– I am very sorry that I could not come then. I couldn’t go because I was busy promoting. But I sent you a present as an apology. Did you like the doll?
I forced myself to smile, lifting the corners of my mouth. Aster opened the notebook again. He hesitated a little, but still wrote it down.
-I liked her because she looks like me.-
Aster smiled a lovely smile that made it impossible to believe that he was a man. Oh, as expected, the gift
worked. What a relief. It was a special custom made doll that reminded me of the dolls that filled the bedroom that I saw in the original book.
Now we need to talk about something. But, as luck would have it, not a single thought crossed my mind, and again there was silence. I had nothing to say to Aster, so this moment was very uncomfortable. I felt like I was balancing on the edge of a knife. Aster, who may have noticed my feelings, again began to write something in a notebook.
-Do you have any questions for me?
What does it mean?
I carefully examined Aster’s face. Beautiful purple eyes with silvery white hair, like a quality wig. Even his skin looked as smooth as if it was porcelain. Like the doll I gave him.
– Sorry, I didn’t quite understand what you meant.
No matter how much I thought about it, I couldn’t think of what to ask Estella about. Aster wrote down what he wanted to say in his notebook again.
-You sent me a doll that looks like me, but you have no questions?-
I feel like I’ve created problems for myself. I’m not very good at this …
Even in the original story, I didn’t know where the conversation with Aster would lead. I was so nervous that I broke out in a cold sweat. Maybe because of the cold air? My shoulders shivered slightly as goose bumps started. Aster scribbled quickly with a pencil when he saw me in this state.
-Are you cold?
Of course it’s cold.
Aster covered the entire body from shoulder to wrists, neck and back with a shawl, but I was in a dress with bare shoulders and back. And now it’s winter.
Meanwhile, Aster took off his shawl and threw it over my shoulders. I tensed because I didn’t know how to react to Aster’s actions.
– Thanks.
A silvery-white shawl, the same fabric as Aster’s dress, was quite warm, just in time for winter. Aster smiled happily, I barely thanked him. The smile looked sweet and lovely, so I doubted for a moment that I knew the person in front of me.
However, Aster’s note in his notebook soon brought me back to earth. – I think you know me.-
Drog
The hand holding the shawl trembled. How do you know?
– In no case. We met for the second time.
Estella’s sparkling eyes looked back to his hair. He took a lock of hair and shook it. Then the pencil moved along the line again.
-You didn’t ask me anything when my hair color changed.-
Exactly, Aster was wearing a wig today. If it was someone who really didn’t know anything about Aster, he would have asked about it.
I could say something like, -Your hair color today is different from the color when I first met you- or -Why can’t you talk.-
But I didn’t ask anything. I didn’t need to ask why Aster was wearing a wig. Why didn’t he speak. I knew everything.
– Sorry, I’m always a little slow. Even if my friends put on makeup or change their hairstyle, I do not
immediately notice it – I pretended to be silly. I do not know if he will believe me, but stubbornly held on to the image. Aster thought about it and wrote something down in a notebook.
-I would like to meet you again.-
It was very burdensome for me to talk to Aster right in front of me. And he offered to meet.
-If Estella sends you another invitation, please ignore it, Ritaus said.
– I don’t have time, I need to concentrate on my studies. The debut ball that took place was an exception, moreover, it will not be repeated for several more years.
-How long?-
– Well, I have a lot of work. I need to become a knight … – I looked anxiously at Estella. I had to come up with as many excuses as possible – I have to graduate from the Academy …
Aster was already scribbling something on paper.
-See you then.-
What the hell are you going to do to me? I wanted to ask, but I said nothing. If I ask and get an answer, I think I’ll go crazy with horror. The best solution now is to run away. And at that moment, when I was about to say that I need to return to the party in my honor, including …
– Lydiana? – From the end of the corridor came a man’s voice. Looking around, I saw that the Emperor was standing next to my uncle. Count Schumanix, who looked here, looked very surprised, but I did not know what struck him.
-… Lydiana?
And again he calls this name. Who is this? I heard that name before. Since I was in front of the Emperor, I was about to bend my knees and lower my head. Aster ran towards the hall.
– Lydiana, Lydiana!
The Emperor followed Aster as if he had lost his mind. Stunned, I turned to my uncle, who seemed unable to believe this was happening.
– Uncle, what happened?
However, my uncle did not answer my question. On the contrary, he only looked with a disappointed face. What’s happening?
– Kayla, do you know the girl you just talked to?
-No, I don’t know, I didn’t say that it was Countess Eiser. For some reason, I felt like I shouldn’t say this. I am sure that you have already shown your face to the world as Estella Eiser. Why? As soon as I thought of telling you something about Estella, I had a premonition that everything would go awry. In addition, Aster is now completely hiding his identity.
– No, it can’t …
Uncle only repeated these words, as if he had witnessed something incredible.
I ran to the main hall, where Estella and the Emperor burst in. I thought I was going to fall because of the high heel, but I made it safely to the door.
– Lydiana, Lydiana!
The main hall was noisy due to the fact that the Emperor was looking for Aster, hiding in the crowd. The ruler was seriously hampered by the aristocrats around him, who constantly asked various questions:
– Who is Lydiana?
-I can’t believe His Majesty is looking for her with such impatience.
A large-scale search began for a woman named Lydiana. It seems Aster slipped from under the Emperor’s nose. I noticed with peripheral vision through the window, as a carriage drove up to the entrance. Is this for Estella?
My uncle, father, and the Guardian Knights stepped forward to calm the agitated Emperor. This was not the atmosphere in which the banquet could be continued. The family took the Emperor to another place, accompanied by an escort. My mother, aunt, cousin and friends were taken aback by what the hell was going on. Countess Eiser and Ritaus appeared next to us.
– I suddenly felt unwell. I think we should hurry back. I wanted to enjoy it to the end, but I’m very sorry, Countess, – Countess Eiser’s face was very pale, and Ritaus’s was not very.
– Oh, it seems you are ill. Want to take a break? I’ll call a doctor.
Countess Eiser shook her head in response. Ritaus said while helping his mother:
– Excuse me, but could you lend me a carriage?
– The carriage? I can lend you one, but what did you bring? -… Our niece went first. She has an urgent business.
– Oh my God…
I heard my aunt sigh.
– I’ll call the crew for you. Just wait a little.
The carriage I saw earlier through the window pane must have been Aster’s carriage. Surprised by the appearance of the Emperor, he seemed to leave his squad behind and hasten to leave. Aster, you know that the Emperor is your biological father. How do you feel, Aster?
– Who is Lydiana? Who is the Emperor looking for? Ophelia asked cautiously as she approached. I was curious too.
-She was the Emperor’s mistress, replied my mother, the Marquis of Vesta, -he met her after he married the Empress.
Ophelia nodded.
-Almost immediately after the Empress gave birth to his heirs.
-Oh …- A soft groan escaped Ophelia’s lips. My mother followed her example:
– No matter how glorified their desperate love, it cannot be a beautiful story.
Only then did I remember who Lydiana was. Estella’s mother. Estella, who is not at all like his lawful wife, the Empress. He probably looks like his mother.
– No matter how tender their relationship is, it’s infidelity.
– What family is Lydiana from? Ophelia asked curiously. -Lydiana was the only child of Duke Lysch.
– Be careful. Some of today’s guests are from the Empress’s family.
Returning after the departure of Countess Eiser, the aunt lowered her voice and asked:
– Where is His Majesty?
-They brought him into the living room. The Count and the Marquis are with him. -It would be a disaster if the Empress knew today.
– I barely calmed the Empress’s heart, but it happened again …
The conversation between my mother and aunt was unknown to me. Heading for the exit, the voices gradually became quieter, and soon only the two of them understood each other. Maybe they will talk where there are no people. I wanted to follow them and stand at the door, but I couldn’t. Soon my uncle and father returned to the central hall.
To suppress the excitement caused by the Emperor, the uncle continued the feast. They hastily invited singers and acrobats to make the atmosphere as loud as possible.
According to his father, the Emperor returned to the palace without the knowledge of the nobility.
That evening, after the banquet, my family decided to stay for a day at the Shreman mansion. When all the guests returned, I heard different stories from my mother and aunt in the living room where the women had gathered.
– 15 or 16 years ago, the palace was completely turned upside down because Lydiana gave birth to an illegitimate child from His Majesty.
-Her Majesty was very angry. The anger fell on our family. For a while, I hated what was happening, because it became very difficult to get into the imperial palace.
– Why? After all, the one whom His Majesty met was the daughter of the Duke of Lysch. – I was curious to know about this part because I never saw it in the original. Mom answered the cautious question:
– The place where His Majesty and Lydiana first met is also here, in the Shreman mansion. They met when His Majesty was still Crown Prince.
Yeah, but I thought why our family had practically no weight in secular society. It seems that the reason lay in the influence of Her Majesty’s family.
– There are rumors that Lydiana died giving birth to a daughter, but I do not know what happened to her. – The mother told a story about a child who was considered Estella.
-I’ve never heard of this before. Ophelia, a commoner, must have never heard of this rumor. By the way, daughter. This is how it was known.
However, the aunt refuted my mother’s words:
-This rumor was deliberately spread by the Duke of Lysch. She really gave birth to a son, and he said that she gave birth to a daughter, deliberately hiding it.
– I heard something completely different. Regardless of gender, it is officially believed that the Duke of Lysch has no heir, because the child, regardless of gender, has already died – the mother also told a rumor that she was walking among some nobles. – Even if he’s alive, that’s a question. If I had an illegitimate child, would I need to hide it?
Mom tilted her head curiously. Among the successive emperors, there were many who had power in their hands, and, of course, there were many illegitimate children. Even if I had a son, this story would not be worth hiding. This is because even illegitimate children have the right to inherit the throne.
– Lydiana died immediately after giving birth. Rumor has it that she was poisoned. -The Duke of Lysch has surely increased the security?
-The Empress is said to have contributed to this. But, of course, this was impossible to prove. We all nodded as we listened to my aunt’s quiet chatter.
– Do you know about the holy book of Her Majesty? With which she can find out all the latest rumors?
The story of the traitor to the Lysch family was an important link in the original. The Duke, who could no longer trust his employees, secretly cultivated and persecuted those who wished to leave. Later, the workers, who
learned about what was happening, did not dare to leave the estate.
– Rumors say that the Duke of Lysch is still following those employees who left.
– What? Is it really so?
– I heard a lot of strange rumors, but it was said that some people who left at that time disappeared and do not return to this day.
– How suspicious!
– Fearfully…
Friends’ faces also twisted in surprise when they heard that people were missing.
– Does he hide something that should not be known to the world? Iris asked quietly. As if it were exciting, Ophelia agreed:
-If it’s just an illegitimate child, there’s no reason to hide it so hard.
– Quite right. The Lysch family has nothing to be ashamed of, – the adults also nodded, agreeing with what my friends said, – the existence of an illegitimate child can lower the reputation, but this is not so simple.
The topic of the conversation has now shifted to -What is hidden in the Lysch family?- All recent rumors have been raised. To avenge his daughter, the Duke of Lysch acquired a large stock of magical weapons against the Imperial House. He sold confidential information to the Empire to other countries due to conflicts with the Imperial family.
When I heard the public opinion about the rumor, it was clear that I was the only one who knew the truth about this case, and I felt bitter. People here do not know that the Empress cursed Estella: -If he turns out to be a boy, he will not live to see the coming of age ceremony.- Therefore, Aster had to dress like a girl.
Therefore, he could not even be called a member of the Lysch family when he was dressed as a woman. I’m the only one here who knows.
Since the Empress had been lied to that Estella was dead, the Duke had to hold back and lie to the Empress to the last. This led to rumors and Aster became an ephemeral figure, whether he existed or not.
– And what was Lydiana like? I think the Emperor saw someone like her, Ophelia asked curiously. -It was a lovely girl with pink hair and purple eyes.
– Pink hair? Were there people with this hair color?
Ophelia did not seem to know that the inhabitants of the Spirit Realm have pink hair.
– Lydiana was the last survivor of the Alik Kingdom.
– Is Alik the Kingdom of Spirits that was in that forest?
– Yes.
– I thought that Alik is a country that exists only in books.
– The Kingdom of Spirits really existed.
Marianne told Ophelia about Alik, the Kingdom of Spirits:
– Alik, who disappeared about 100 years ago, is considered a mysterious country today. Although it had not existed for only 100 years, there was little information about Alik. This is because they did not write their history and culture separately on paper. The power of the Spirit of Kingdom memory has been imprinted in space so that future generations may come back to these lands someday.
The territory was deep in the forest, and those with special looks and talents were different from ordinary people. They had clear, pale skin as if they had never seen the sun, pink hair, and purple eyes. Everyone, as a matter of choice, had a beautiful appearance, a longer life expectancy than ordinary people, and delayed aging. They understood the language of animals and plants, ruled over water and wind, earth and air, and could communicate with spirits. The power of the Spirit was powerful, and soon it became the main weapon of the people of the Kingdom of Spirit. But once Alik was destroyed for unknown reasons. Scholars have suggested that this was due to internal feuds.
And the forest land where Alik was located is now part of the Yerbha Empire.
***
– Your Majesty, how do you feel?
Maxim asked him when Rietrich sank into a chair. Some time ago, the scene at Count Schumanix’s banquet was quite shocking.
-Lydiana was there.
The Emperor muttered in despair. Lidiana Lysch.
16 years ago, a woman appeared whom the Emperor Rietrich met and passionately loved. A passionate romance developed between the two, which was not interfered with even by their age difference.
Rietrich, even when he was only the Crown Prince, did not disclose his relationship with this woman. While members of the Imperial family and other aristocrats had many love relationships, Rietrich was different.
Before marriage, he never held a woman’s hand.
Then he married Julia Hillett, the eldest daughter of the Hillett family. The couple managed to establish normal relations. However, the Hillets were very ambitious and wanted to control the imperial power, making it their own. Because of which, the Emperor and Empress began to move away from each other.
But sometime for the first time, as Crown Prince, he met 20-year-old Lydiana on the day she attended Count Schumanix’s banquet. A mysterious woman with pink hair and purple eyes, who inherited the blood of the Spirit King. Lydiana was the first love of Rietrich, who was already well over 30.
-Your Majesty, Lydiana has long been dead. Maxim once again emphasized this.
– But…
– You have simply identified yourself.
Rietrich jumped up from his seat, as if something had appeared next to him.
– Then it turned out that Lydiana had a son, the Duke of Lysch.
– Yes, I remember, that’s why I was. It was your son …
– A son…
Rietrich remembered the girl he had seen in the central hall of the Schumanix mansion. A beautiful girl with blond hair and purple eyes. She looked very much like Lydiana.
-I told him to dress him up as a girl and raise him accordingly.
– Your Majesty …
Maxim also remembered this. The face of Duke Lysch, begging to save the life of his grandson, cursed by the Empress. The Emperor told Duke Lysch how to temporarily avoid the curse.
-That’s exactly what I did.
Rietrich recalled his last meeting with the Duke of Lysch.
– Dress the child in women’s clothing. To some extent, this will help to avoid the curse.
He was sure that was exactly what he had said then. Then the girl who looked like Lydiana he saw today is probably …
– I completely forgot.
Rietrich’s eyes stared into the air.
– Boy … I completely forgot.
Maxim was alarmed. The barely settled past shook the Emperor again. -He looks a lot like Lydiana, just like the Duke of Lysch said.
Leaning back in his chair again, Rietrich burst into tears, his shoulders trembling. -Your Majesty, this may reach Her Majesty’s ears. Be careful.
The Weeping Emperor raised his eyes and stared at Maxim. There was anger in his eyes.
– I lived for 16 years with closed eyes and closed ears, so that in the end, just now, to see him, 16 years!
The Emperor shouted. Maxim looked around, fearing that he would be heard. Fortunately, only he and the Emperor were in the Emperor’s bedroom.
– Lydiana, Lydiana …
Rietrich sobbed again. Seeing the Emperor like this, Maxim sighed deeply.
Sooner or later, the successor will come to the throne. Maximus was seized with an ominous foreboding that whoever became the Crown Prince, the bloody wind would blow until the next Emperor ascended the throne.
***
After a party at the Shumanix mansion, we returned to our main house. It was a lot of fun to spend time with friends in that little place. It was something I had never experienced in my previous life when I was crushed by a part-time job.
-So you’re going to Trausen now?
– It will happen when the new semester begins.
Franz nodded at Ophelia’s question and handed her an ad from Oculus Boarding School.
– My sister recommended this school to me because I said that I was interested in Troisin. Marianne glanced around the boarding school advertisement and tilted her head to one side.
– Boarding Academy Oculus? I have never heard of such an Academy before. I don’t think I saw her on the list of prestigious Academies.
Marianne was shrewd. I was going to explain the prepared answer to Marianne. However, Franz took over this role from me.
– Despite the remote area, the history of the Academy is long, the teachers are wonderful, and this is a very peaceful place. First of all, the environment is very good. Wild birds that only live there … o
The passion of the virtuoso is amazing. Franz’s obsession with wild birds in the Trausen area was intimidating.
-But how can there be a good teacher in such a remote place?
Marianne’s comments are harsh, but in fact I’ve already solved the teacher’s problem. With money. Talented teachers would hardly have appeared in such a remote area.
-I just hired new teachers from Hwando, and they said they were from prestigious Academies. I applied with this in mind.
I donated a fairly large amount of money to the Oculus and asked that the best teachers be included in the teaching staff for Franz. And so that all teachers are women.
Because of this, I spent all the money that I had accumulated during my stay here. I must continue to sell dresses and shoes that I no longer wear. This is the only way I can make a fortune without spending too much money in my pocket money.
When I first introduced the Oculus, it was an unfamiliar school that was not known, so neither my parents nor Franz suspected anything. I went into more detail about how old the Oculus Boarding Academy is and how good it is than when I gave a presentation to my boss. My parents, who were concerned about this, enthusiastically told me, -If you choose this school, everything will be fine.- It turned out to be a trifling matter.
-It was the only good boarding academy in the Trausen area, most likely because of its remoteness, I said, explaining, in fact, I didn’t look anymore.
Of course, even if there is a more prestigious Academy, this is the only place Franz can go. I had to keep Franz out of the guys.
– Trausen is almost a border area.
Marianne, who was muttering something to herself, turned her head to Franz.
– Then we will not see each other very often.
She felt lonely, but the way she spoke and the expression on her face were too calm. However, I became quite close to Marianne, and I could read her emotions from that expressionless look. It was a sign of disappointment that Franz would be alone while he was gone.
Franz stupidly replied, -Oh, that’s right,- but said nothing more. It was just embarrassing. Nevertheless, he continued: -I don’t think I won’t be able to see you for long enough, I’m sorry, but don’t worry.- This is their business.
Even if Franz was not interested in women, he supported them. I just hope that everything goes the way it goes and does not go somewhere wrong.
Knock Knock
I heard someone knocking on the door. A low and loud sound, as if the knocker was wearing gloves. It was Alto’s butler.
– Come on in.
Alto entered my room with a tray containing biscuits and tea.
– The chef baked raspberry pies and biscuits for a snack.
Alto is really competent. I can’t believe he even knocked with a large tray and two plates in both hands.
– Thank you, Alto. I just needed to eat.
– Do you mind staying in here?
The friends nodded in response to Alto’s question.
– Yes, here we feel more comfortable. We are not used to being in a spacious place.
Ophelia and Iris loved the place more than Vesta’s main residence, which was large and vibrant.
– What a relief.
Alto put a plate of trays and snacks on the table. When everything was ready, he opened the newspaper which had been stuck out of his pocket and showed it to me.
– What is it?
– Read this side.
When I saw the article the butler had pointed out, I knew that rumors had spread to Nicholas Chiade. -It is said that Master Nicholas of the Chiade family was injured.
– When?
– On the day of Mistress Kayla and the girls’ debut, he rolled down the stairs and broke his legs.
Once again I read the article in detail. His story, entitled -The Suffering of Nicholas Chiade,- was detailed.
During my studies at the Kratie Boarding Academy, I was subjected to beatings and, as a result, constant treatment, which caused me to be absent a lot. This should have paid off. After I made her a marriage proposal, but she rejected it. To see her, I went to the ball to Count Schumanix, but she refused to dance, after which I stumbled on a vine, rolled down the stairs and broke my leg.
Of course, he has been badly hurt lately. The article published Nicholas’ complaints in the form of interviews. -There was definitely a vine on the stairs! I tripped over this vine!
However, associates and other nobles who visited the house that day said they did not see any vines on the entrance staircase.
– Our mansion does not disregard not only the garden, but also small plants in the flower beds. Besides, it’s winter now.
Even when I was in the Schumanix mansion, there were no vines on the entrance stairs of the mansion. I haven’t even seen common ivy.
– He was punished.
Iris clicked her tongue when she saw the article.
– Not only Count Schumaniks has problems because of this guy? Butler Alto intervened in Iris’s murmur filled with concern.
-You don’t have to worry about that. The Chiade family contacted us first to keep the matter private. Why is that! I thought Duke Chiade would be pissed off.
-Maybe he did it because he wanted to look good in front of Mistress Kayla.
Maybe Nicholas did it for me, but I couldn’t appreciate the impulse. Fortunately, however, this did not harm my uncle.
– And today he announced himself. With a gift.
I sighed involuntarily upon hearing Alto’s words. Nicholas was constantly courting me, regardless of the fact that he was ignored.
– Would you like to meet him today?
As soon as he found out that I was in this house, all the letters and gifts that he sent to the main mansion came here. The space was already small.
– Later. I’ll put it all together, and then I’ll see if I’m in the mood. But Alto’s butler expressed disapproval.
-There’s no room for that in this house. Mistress Kayla.
This is really annoying. The gift did not deserve to be thrown away immediately.
– Take gifts and donate them to orphanages or necessary institutions. I’ll review the letters later, so put them aside.
– Good.
Of course, I had no intention of reading the letters. I’m sure you wrote something stupid again. -And the letter came for Lady Marianne. Take it.
Alto took the letter from his hand and handed it to Marianne.
– Thank you, Alto.
Marianne, Ophelia and Iris allowed all letters to come to my house during our stay. Therefore, letters often came to my friends. It was almost a letter to my family.
-This is a letter from a classmate in my class. What’s happening?
Her classmate, an aristocrat, was also a member of the same Salon as Marianne. Marianne opened the letter in front of us and began to read it carefully.
– Duchess Leodora leaves Kratie. She filled out a vacation dropout application. We were all surprised by the news of Leodore.
– Leodora is not the heiress of the Shreman family, so she does not need a diploma from Kratie. Iris nodded and accepted Leodora’s resignation. But I didn’t understand anything.
– It’s true that I had a conflict with her. But is it really possible to drop out of school because of this? Nicholas is all right.
-Kayla, I don’t think you can compare her to Nicholas. Nicholas is different from the average person. Ophelia nodded and helped Iris.
– Well, yes, as it were. It’s very hard. I would say that he is strong.
Ophelia had difficulty choosing words, but I understood her. Yes, Nicholas wasn’t usually nutty.
-But Leodora was never humiliated. Now I’m in a different class so I wouldn’t have to deal with her. Iris, who had been silent before, intervened cautiously in the conversation.
– Right, Kayla. It’s not as easy as you think.
Iris was right. The disappearance of the behavioral voting system at the Kratie Boarding Academy was also reported in newspaper articles.
The names of Ophelia and Iris, who sent the petition, were made public, but the name of Leodora, who was the first on the list, was anonymized. In addition, the article about Count Carlsen, who used the power of the director, which could be used very few times, for the sake of powerless commoners, was presented as a beautiful story.
– Already now secular newspapers suggest that the enemy is Leodora Schreman. Rumors spread throughout the social world.
If a well-known aristocrat like Count Carlsen takes the side of ordinary people with fair standards, the
reputation of those who were on the opposite side will automatically fall from that moment on. The higher the status and reputation, the more scratches have disappeared.
– It’s strange, they pretend that before that they did not do what they took for granted.
After the incident with the petition, the attitude towards the Salon changed at lightning speed. When the media began to criticize them, they chose Leodora as the scapegoat.
-We didn’t want to do this, but Duchess Schreman took the initiative.-
The long tyranny of the Salon was caused by the actions of one man named Leodora. In the end, Leodora left the Academy not because of me, but because she was ostracized by the aristocrats in the same Salon.
-I don’t feel sorry for Leodora, even if she went through it. This is nothing compared to what Iris and the other students had to endure.
– Agree.
Marianne nodded silently at Ophelia’s words. Only Franz could not understand what the girls were talking about.
– Who is Leodora?
– Do you know Leodora Schreman?
Ophelia cried out with a frightened look. But Franz only stared blankly at us.
– Duchess Shreman of House Shreman?
– Yes, this is a really cute third grader! This is not a beauty that you will ever forget, even if you just walk by.
Ophelia could not understand how it was possible not to know such a beautiful person. I thought that Ophelia was very fond of beautiful people.
– Well, I was in my second year. I didn’t even know my classmates in my class, let alone others … If you think about it, Franz really didn’t remember much of anything, unless it was his interest.
– AND.
Franz continued to speak as if he had been falsely accused. -Isn’t Marianne the most beautiful student in third grade?
There was a moment of silence. Soon after, the atmosphere was broken by Ophelia’s rolling laughter.
– Now it is clear to everyone who your bride is. Ho ho ho. Franz’s words are really funny.
For a moment I was surprised, but Franz was probably speaking with a disinterested, pure heart. Look at this face that doesn’t even blush.
-Marianne’s hair reminds me of peitula. It is really beautiful.
-Peitula is a rare bird with shiny red feathers. As you might expect, this is where Franz’s standard of beauty came from. I can’t believe you are comparing people to feathers.
However, when I looked back, Marianne’s hair was indeed a similar reddish-red.
Did Marianne … even blush?
The villa was small, but Hwando was a good place to stay. We did some sightseeing here and there and the tour included the Imperial Palace. There was an extension in the palace where commoners could enter, so tourists from abroad also came here. Although the palace where the Emperor and Empress live is located far on the other side, visitors were delighted to know that His Imperial Majesty was in this place.
But I was thrilled for a different reason.
– Everything is the same as in the original! This is amazing!
It was so amazing that the streets and landscapes that I saw in the original unfold in front of me in 3D. My friends thought I was pretty weird.
-Lady Kayla sometimes says strange things that we don’t understand.
– Kayla looks eccentric.
– She is Franz’s older sister.
I heard my friends laughing at me. This is not fair. I am treated like Franz. Of course, amazingly, the
landscape that I saw in the comic is a picture, and the view that unfolds in front of my eyes is real life. And I never examined the area around me when I lived in the Hwando villa. So this is the first time I have taken such a close look at the sights.
– Today is really good weather.
We went to the park where the lake was located after exploring the Keidelburg shopping area in Hwando. The goal was to give rest to the accompanying people who were hardly following us all this time.
There are many restaurants in Keidelburg so we bought and shared long bread sandwiches. We also bought milk in glass bottles, which was given to our escorts.
– We can go back and eat.
-We’ll just stay within the reach of the knights, go and eat.
The escorts tried to refuse, but we handed them sandwiches and milk.
– It is a pity that Franz did not come … Birds are swimming in the lake.
Marianne looked around the fairly clean winter park and showed signs of disappointment. When I saw a mallard playing in the lake, I also remembered Franz.
-Franz loves rarer birds, so he may not be interested in mallards.
– I spoke to him last time, and he was very interested in such migratory birds.
I didn’t bring Franz on purpose. I hoped he wouldn’t go outside unless it was a family meeting until I sent him to the Oculus.
It reminded me of a recent meeting between Franz and Aster at the Schumanix mansion. It was really dangerous. Would I try to avoid Estella and get his attention again?
I have to be careful until Franz gets hold of Shitsuro. When Franz possesses Shitsuro, he will be free to do whatever he wants.
Fortunately, Franz was not interested in anything else, except for an expedition to the habitats of wild birds. I was lucky that he did not leave the house and did not communicate.
But…
When I let him go, -Live as you want,- he will begin to concentrate on only one thing. I often talked with knights of the same class when I was forced to go to Kratie … What he experienced at the Kratie Boarding Academy must have been very painful.
Now I deliberately limit the people he meets, but that’s just now. If Franz becomes Shitsuro Master in the future, I don’t care who he meets.
You will live freely and happily. Which he couldn’t do before. Because you are my brother in this world.
– Kayla, catch the ball!
Ophelia tossed me a ball that she had just bought from a street vendor. I caught the ball with both hands, not knowing what kind of game it was.
– Oh, it is forbidden to touch the ball with your hands.
I stared blankly at Ophelia, but before I knew it, the guys were already standing on all sides.
– What, Kayla? Don’t you know -sabanchkhagi-?
I know how to play sabanchigi, but I do not know sabanchkhagi. I spent my youth here, but not my childhood.
– You need at least four people, then you need to draw a line in the middle and place one team member on each half. And when you kick the ball, you get 1 point when the same teammate gets it.
It looks like kicking volleyball.
– So, I’ll start.
Ophelia kicked the ball curiously. Perhaps due to her weak athletic ability, the ball fell, drawing a parabola from a low height.
– Do I have to understand this?
I grumbled as I followed the ball, which barely crossed the center line in front of me.
– I still don’t understand anything about it!
Since I got ahead of Iris, Marianne and I were next. I put the ball on the ground, stepped back a little and hit it hard. The ball then flew far away, drawing a parabola that was incomparably higher than the one Ophelia had kicked.
– Marianne, catch the ball!
Marianne and Ophelia ran to where the ball was flying, who will win?
– If this continues, we will not win. I should have taken Franz with me.
If Franz, a man of athletic build, came, everything could be somehow balanced. But then Franz and I will be the only ones who will dominate the game.
I almost got a baby ball. On the contrary, my friends did not catch the ball that I kicked. Reflexes were different, so the speed of chasing the ball was also different. The ball, which Ophelia kicked this time, rolled across the lawn without drawing a single parabola. I thought I could easily catch him, so I slowly walked to where the ball was supposed to fly.
What?
A strong wind blew past. As if a slowly moving ball suddenly came to life, it began to roll rapidly towards my leg.
What is it?
The ball was heading somewhere away from me. I only saw where the ball was going when I was running at full speed and catching up with it.
The fast-moving ball stopped under the girl’s foot. The girl smiled and bent down to pick up the ball with her hands. As soon as I looked at the girl’s face, I thought that I was lucky that I did not bring Franz today.
-Oh, I haven’t seen you for a long time, Lady Estella.
A cute dress with black ruffles, lace and dark purple ribbon. He wore a winter hood, but pink hair peeked out from under his hat. There was no one around Estella.
One? Can he walk around like this in broad daylight without a guard? What if he collides with the Empress’s man? This park was owned by Hwando, so aristocrats often visited it.
Aster handed me the ball. I could understand why the ball, which was flying weak, vigorously rolled towards Aster. Aster must have summoned the spirit of the wind. Because Aster is the last descendant of the Spirit King.
– The weather is good. I think that the cold will go away with the onset of spring.
I had nothing to say, so I started talking about any topic. What kind of conversation should we have? Why is he here?
– I am going to go. Thanks for the ball.
After receiving the ball, I thanked him slightly. When I turned and walked to the place where my friends were, Aster hastily handed me his notebook.
[I’m so sorry to come back this way.]
Oh, you mean the ball at the Schumanix mansion? It didn’t bother me at all that Aster disappeared like that … -It’s okay, you must be surprised. I did not expect that His Majesty …
Perhaps because Aster and the Emperor knew they were in a father-son relationship, they could not speak. I tried to choose my words so as not to accidentally let slip and not make a mistake.
[I’m fine now.]
Aster slowly wrote down what he wanted to say in a notebook. I suddenly wondered what kind of voice it will be when you really speak? He’s pretty now, but he always covers his neck because he’s trying to cover his Adam’s apple. I suppose that the period of metamorphosis has passed.
– And how is Countess Eiser? She borrowed my uncle’s carriage, but she didn’t look good.
I remembered the pale look of Countess Eiser that day. Probably because of Estella. I think the reason she took the carriage is because Aster left first.
[Countess Eiser is in good health.]Aster responded.
– What a relief.
And uncomfortable, because I remembered her pale face. I thought that it was enough that Countess Eiser was feeling well. I’m sure we’re done with this. I tried to go to where my friends were now, but Aster would not let me go.
[I saw you dancing with Ritaus.]
Oops, Aster was more obsessed with Ritaus before Franz. I forgot because I only cared about Franz. Aster again began to write something in a notebook.
-Have you broken up.-
I felt a slight displeasure with the way he looked at me. As if I was very wrong dancing with Ritaus.
This guy must still be obsessed with Ritaus. Maybe I should inform him that I have no plans for Ritaus.
– My father was originally my partner. But he changed his mind. Sir Ritaus and I parted, we are nobody to each other. This will not happen again.
I drew a certain line between myself and Ritaus. Then Aster smiled sweetly. His smile was so good that I forgot for a moment that he was crazy.
Are you so happy that me and Ritaus have nothing to do with each other? This obsession with Ritaus is scary.
Ritaus appears to have been unable to marry because of Estella, regardless of sexual orientation.
I shouldn’t be his enemy. I don’t know why, but you seem to have good feelings for me, so I have to stick with this relationship. But don’t make friends.
While I was lost in thought, Ophelia shouted to me:
– Kayla, what are you doing there?
I went to get the ball, but I didn’t come back, so I looked to my side. I looked back at Ophelia and turned my head back to Estella.
– I think I should go.
I was grateful to Ophelia for calling me when I needed it. But Aster wrote one more word in his notebook.
-Friend? ]
Aster looks at Ophelia. I immediately closed Aster’s review. I didn’t want Aster to show interest in my girlfriends.
– Yes my friend. I will go.
Aster caught me again when I was trying to leave.
[Are you busy until you graduate from the Academy? ]
He asked again. I think I really need to draw the line now.
-I already told you, but I’m very busy. I will only stay at the Dormitory. I will return as often as I can. As I said at the ball, I listed everything I could, why I was busy.
[How long does it take to finish the Academy? ]
I feel some kind of pressure from him. Why are you asking so many questions?
– Well, I have a goal for a year or two.
What’s wrong with my release? I wanted to hear the answer, but Aster just smiled. -And now I’m really going. It was nice to see you.
I stepped back, turned and ran towards my friends. Fortunately, Aster no longer held me.
– …That’s not a lot.
I heard a quiet voice behind me. I stopped and looked around. Estella was not visible.
The voice was so deep and low that I could not clearly hear what he was saying. Did I hear something wrong?
I turned again and walked over to where my friends were.
-You’ve been away for a long time. Who is this buddy?
-This is Count Eiser’s man.
-She is a relative of Sir Ritaus.
Ophelia and Iris looked into the distance, where Estella had already disappeared. Although Aster was not there, he continued to harass me. Even a strong wind blows, making the surroundings seem insane.
– Are you close? You talked for a long time.
– No, we’re not close. I don’t know her very well.
Without realizing it, I desperately denied Aster. Maybe it’s because of my desire to be unfamiliar with this person. Then a whirlwind suddenly swooped down on us.
– A-ah-ah!
Ophelia’s hat flew off. It was a sudden impulse, so we had no choice but to bend over and dodge.
– Jim, be careful, don’t fly away!
The rug on which the knights of the escort rested was also in disarray. The things we put out for a while were blown about by the wind. As if the wind had a will, only where we were and disappeared. Only when the wind died down a little, we were able to fix the situation.
– What was that wind?
I was surprised.
When I looked around, others looked to where we were, but they were all right.
– Suddenly a strong wind came.
The people who were with us in the park talked about anomalies.
– Ophelia, your hat was found!
Iris handed Ophelia the hat that the guard had given her. It is said that Ophelia’s hat flew to the lake.
I looked around again in search of Estella. Only trees with empty branches in empty fields. Estella was not visible. But that was weird. I felt that Aster was watching me somewhere in this place. Goose bumps ran through my arms.
***
-… Don’t make me wait too long. My patience is running out.
Was it luck that Kayla didn’t hear Aster’s words, or was it unfortunate? At least Kayla would reconsider her plan if she heard about it. Kayla missed the opportunity to prepare.
After meeting with the Emperor at the Shreman’ mansion, Count Eiser and Ritaus introduced a curfew for Aster. Countess Eiser could no longer help Aster because of the great noise caused by the Emperor.
Count Eiser was enraged that the Countess took Estella to social events. Therefore, Countess Eiser was also punished.
– Stay alone. My family that protects you could be in danger.
The Empress was powerful. The slowly growing power of the Hillet family also grew with the Empress. Now it would not be a mistake to say that the power of the Yerbha Empire belonged to the Empress.
-I always think of the Duke of Lysch taking care of you.
Aster’s grandfather, Duke of Lysch, was very busy managing his estate. There were many cases when Aster was sent to Count Eiser because he was worried about a traitor hidden in the Duchy.
Aster considered such concerns of his maternal grandfather useless. What did you do to catch the traitor? Even if you find a spy, another new person will appear. Unlike Duke Lysch, Aster was not very interested in those who were looking for his life.
However, the reason he went to Count Eiser, as ordered by Duke Lysch, was that he did not want to be left alone.
However, growing up has reduced the number of life-threatening cases. Before the bloody attack, the Berg station was quiet for a while.
-I don’t know when this will happen again …-
After a while, Aster’s coming-of-age ceremony will take place along with his 16th birthday. Then the question of Aster’s life and death will be decided.
Aster thought that perhaps the Empress already knew his usual dress. The Empress who put the curse is aware, so perhaps dressing up in women’s clothing no longer makes sense.
However, his appearance as a girl was prompted by a strong belief in the past, which he believed protected him, and Duke Lysch’s obsession with saving his grandson.
-Don’t think about anything else. Let’s just figure out how to avoid the curse.
Aster left the house without the knowledge of Count Eiser. Breathing in the cold air did not ease his displeasure. Aster walked and walked, his hood pulled down deeply. Boys his age walked past Estella telling jokes.
I took it.
– Oh, sorry! ..
The boy who walked by, bumping his shoulder, met Aster’s gaze and cold face, slightly apologizing. The boy’s face turned red.
– Hey, what are you doing?
The friends approached the boy and saw Aster’s face buried in a deep hood.
– Oh…
The boys blushed without a word, and Aster walked past them with quick steps. -I fell bad-.
Aster was in a bad mood. And not because the boys hit him on the shoulder, but because they hit themselves on the shoulder. It wasn’t even when the Emperor was banned from going out for causing riots. Unlike Duke Lysch and Count Eiser, who protected him, Aster did not care about it.
Estella’s mood soured after the ball at the Schumanix mansion, and the reason he was offended was very strange. This was because the Kayla he met after a long time was much taller than her.
Of course, Kayla was wearing high heels that day. But Aster definitely felt it. Kayla is taller than when they first met, and he hasn’t grown at all.
I once hated growth. I hated being tall and skinny. When the age-related metamorphoses associated with the voice came, I could no longer pretend to be a girl in front of people and was in despair. If I became that person, I would not be able to stay with Ritaus.
It was scary to think that one day Ritaus would marry and start a family. Ritaus will only take care of him when he is small and fragile. I will only be with him if I remain a beautiful girl.
However, Aster’s body did not change according to his wishes. So even when his peers grew up, Aster looked like a fragile girl.
But when did it start? The real -I- became terrible for him. Frustrated by his reflection in the mirror, Aster measured his height for the first time in a long time. It hasn’t changed at all since last year.
Will he stay like this? For hiding all his life?
Ritaus, who was easily covered in growth, soon became taller than Duke Lysch, a tall man, taller than Count Eiser. He was growing up.
However, Aster, who is only four years younger than him, remains the same. He wears men’s and women’s clothing, wears women’s accessories, and cannot wear clothing that does not cover the Adam’s apple that sticks out of his neck.
His reflection in the mirror looked disgusting. Neither the woman nor the man were terrible because the dress suited them well. As the difference in height with Ritaus widened, he became nervous. His high, broad shoulders made him feel terrible, as did his broad back.
Ritaus’s interest gradually spread to a world he did not know. What he didn’t know, what he didn’t deal with. His relationship with him seemed to grow increasingly distant.
Aster consulted with himself. -What do you want?-
Do you want to grow up or stay that way?
But Kayla Vesta appeared, a stranger who had no idea what was going on inside him and gave impetus to his decision.
On the day that the station was attacked by the Blood Demon sent to Berg Station, Kayla rescued him, although she could pass by. She grabbed him, carried him to safety, and ran to the Blood Demon.
Kayla Vesta reveals himself to many people, unlike himself, who dresses like a woman because he doesn’t want to be caught.
The outer garments melted in the Blood Demon’s blood, and the whole body was filthy with sweat and dust. She didn’t care, although her petticoat and slender bare legs were bare every time the wind blew on her. He heard tactless men whistling around. However, she seemed to be consumed solely by the destruction of the Blood Demon.
Aster never thought of anyone but himself as cute or handsome. However, Kayla’s black hair fluttering in the sun was dazzling.
It was a shock. He wanted to be there. He thought he wanted to live like this, not noticing prying eyes. He even envied the way she confronted danger with her own will and decision.
Later, Kayla made a stronger impression on Aster. Just when Ritaus brought the students of the Kratie Academy. Kayla looked very surprised when she saw Ritaus approaching her. At that moment, shocked by the flow of air, the spirits whispered to Estella.
-This girl knows you.
Hearing the whisper of the spirit, Aster looked at Kayla again. Kayla stared at him in surprise. Her gaze was not directed at Ritaus.
You know me?
Then, as if noticing that he was looking at her, Kayla pretended not to know anything and avoided Aster’s gaze. This also seemed strange to Aster. She reacted to him differently from an ordinary person.
-Perhaps … you know me.-
The question piqued Kayla’s curiosity. Aster bought up all the newspapers when articles about the brave girl who saved people at Berg station were poured in. He also read the article carefully in case he found any clues about this girl. Looking at the photo all the time, he thought it looked pretty cute and pretty.
Then he found out that she was a former bride who broke up with Ritaus. How much does Ritaus know about her?
– I repeat, we parted. I have nothing to say.
When he questioned him, he received little information. But it did not help.
Aster grew more and more curious. Do you really know about me? What if you know? Then who are you? Then let’s meet in person. Let’s meet and ask. Aster also sent tea invitations for the first time.
However, when Kayla did not show up, he was deeply disappointed and angry. Not understanding what he expected. Nevertheless, Aster could not refuse to meet with Kayla and was able to attend the ball of Count Shreman, joining the Countess Eiser.
Except that Kayla’s height was bigger than he remembered, his reunion with Kayla was more exciting than he imagined. Because Kayla was very good at dress and makeup.
Meeting Kayla has never been a waste of time in many ways. When he first spoke to Kayla, the doubts he was thinking about turned into conviction.
-As expected, you know me.-
Every word that flew from Kayla’s lips was careful, and she avoided anything that could become a mine.
This is not to say that she did not notice the change in her hair. She immediately found herself in the crowd. -I told you so.-
Aster remembered Kayla’s first words, spoken to him in Shreman’ mansion.
– You were looking for me, weren’t you?
She even seemed to know what she was thinking. He could have asked many questions if the Emperor had not suddenly appeared.
-And where now?-
Aster walked and walked aimlessly. In order not to reveal pink hair, a large hood was thrown over, but every time the wind blew, the hood tried to come off. People looked at him and bowed their heads. He should have put on a wig, but he thought about it too late.
After a carefree stroll, he came to his senses and came to the shopping area. Aster’s eyes widened at the sight he saw for the first time in his life. He visited the train station for the first time in a long time, but for the first time he was on a busy street. Unaccompanied and unaccompanied. One.
Much was charming. Without realizing it, he almost took off his hood and looked around. It was very pleasant to walk freely in the sun of my own free will.
And he saw her there. Kayla Vesta walked with her friends.
It was just a coincidence that Aster met Kayla today. The unexpected meeting excited Estella. Aster was hiding behind Kayla’s back. Although Kayla was so unexpected, he couldn’t be seen because the spirits were hiding him.
Aster, who followed her into the park, hid behind a tree. He silently watched and waited for the moment to talk to Kayla, but the three annoying girls stayed together and did not leave. In addition, one of the dark-haired girls was quite close to her, crossing her arms over her chest, and dragging Kayla back and forth.
He didn’t like it.
-Things that are not as beautiful as me …-
How can I remove them? Do you want me to throw you in the lake?
The ugly blonde who flirted with Kayla at the Schumanix mansion was punished. He whispered to the hibernating vine and asked her to punish him. The awakened plant, with the help of the spirit, extended its stem to the mansion. In the middle of the night, as Nicholas Chiade left the mansion and descended the stairs, the ivy covering the wall suddenly multiplied and knocked Nicholas down the stairs.
The Spirits loved Aster, the last descendant of the Spirit King. Aster was so dear to them, to such an extent that they wanted to fulfill his every desire. Even if it hurts someone.
It was at this moment that he decided to push one of the three girls into the lake. He tried to approach Kayla in the midst of the riots, but the girls bought the ball from a street vendor. When the game began, the corners of Aster’s mouth crawled up.
Here it is!
Aster directed the ball in his direction. Kayla followed the ball in panic. Right where he stood.
But, to Aster’s disappointment, they could not continue the conversation for long. It was because the ugly girls who came with her called Kayla.
Aster looked at them angrily. He was unpleasant because he was interrupted when they were together. Kayla kept looking around to see if the company was worried. Aster had no choice but to let go of Kayla.
Whispering.
– I think she wants to get out of here as soon as possible. -She seems to be impatient.
– She’s nervous.
– What’s happened?
The spirits whispered in Estella’s ear. The middle of Aster’s forehead was frowned with so many conversations at the same time.
The spirits following Aster were competent. They distinguished whether Aster’s enemy was an enemy or an ally, only by the energy that the enemy was giving off. However, such a thing was rather narrow. All attention was focused on Aster’s favoritism.
Aster hated people and they hated these people, Aster liked people and they liked these people. But the method was not universal, therefore it was useless in front of people who knew how to deceive spirits. Therefore, Aster did not completely trust the spirits.
Fortunately, Kayla Vesta was not the one to cheat on the spirits. -This girl is not your enemy.
The spirits appreciated Kayla that way. -But not on your side either.
Aster stared blankly at Kayla’s back as she rushed to her group. The image of Kayla, surrounded by friends, was superimposed on the image of Ritaus, who went into a world that she did not know.
Ugh, Aster’s heart involuntarily sank.
Kayla’s companions looked at him and said something. He changed the direction of the wind to himself again, because he could not hear their words. The spirits of the wind conveyed their words.
-You’ve been away for a long time. Who is this? Your buddy? -This is Count Eiser’s man.
-She is a relative of Sir Ritaus.
They talked about you. – asked the ugly girl with brown hair next to Kayla.
– Are you close? You talked for a long time.
– No, we’re not close. I don’t know her very well. For a moment, Aster’s feelings were broken.
– You are lying! You are lying!
The spirits, struck by the words of hysteria, began to scream. A cold voice escaped Estella’s mouth:
– …you know.
The wind began to swirl and swirl around Kayla. Aster did not mean it, but it was done by the messengers who responded to his feelings. Aster left the place where Kayla was, regardless of whether it was destroyed by the whirlwind or not. Estella’s neck fluttered with a gust of wind.
– I am always waiting.
Green shoots sprout with every step Aster took. The dry grass, awaiting the arrival of spring, sparkled with a blue light under Estella’s feet.
-A long time ago, there were many people who listened to our voices.
Aster stopped, listening to the voices of the spirits that were constantly whispering.
– Call us anytime.
The attention of all the trees and grasses on the lawns of the park turned to Estella. As if they wanted to show that they are here.
– We are always by your side.
Spirits of earth, water, wind and light gathered around Estella.
– The last descendant of the Spirit King …
***
The old, haggard Duke returned to the Estella residence.
– Let’s go back to Lysch.
Behind the old man stood the family of Count Eiser, waiting for Aster.
– When did you come here?
Aster looked displeased at the old man. The old man approached Aster with a sad smile. A dry, twig-like wrist stroked Aster’s head. The skin was dry like old wood and felt rough.
– I heard the news and came.
Although the old man was in his 60s at best, he seemed over 80. He grew old too early, burying first his wife and then his daughter. Now the only family left with the old man was the grandson in front of him.
-… Grandpa will leave again.
He worked nonstop for his only grandson. He didn’t have time to just stay at the estate and spend time with him.
-Grandpa has prepared something for you. If everything works out, I can stay with you forever.
He did not tell him what it was, but Duke Lysch’s eyes were convincing. This will surely help his grandson.
– Here you go.
The Old Duke hung a key-shaped necklace around Estella’s neck. -I’ll tell you when I’m done. You must never lose this key.
Aster looked at the necklace around her neck. The key pendant was a design suitable for both men and
women. The spirits whispered that grandfather was preparing something, but Aster didn’t even know what it was.
-Again a useless thing …-
He hadn’t expected what kind of work it would be. Perhaps he conspired with other forces to recognize him as Prince, or …
-Are you preparing for treason?-
A dismal smile appeared on Aster’s lips. The poor Duke, who did not know the heart of his grandson, gently rubbed his cheek.
Sheer radiant skin, silky pink hair and amethyst-like eyes. The grandson who took over the face of his daughter Lydiana. The face reminded him of Callie’s long-dead wife, who died in his memory.
Lydiana looked more like Duke Lysch than Callie. However, her pink hair and purple eyes, the realms of the spirit, were inherited by her daughter and grandson.
Thirty years after the loss of Callie, the image of Callie in the memory of the Duke of Lysch was still alive, as if he had met her yesterday. Purple eyes like amethyst and soft pink hair
– I am much older than you … Will you be all right?
It was when Duke Lysch was a 25-year-old young man that he met Callie, who was one of the few survivors of the Spirit Realm. At the time, he didn’t even know that she was the only royal surviving.
Duke Lysch guessed that she was ten years older than him, because they grow old they grow old late and live long.
The Duke of Lysch could easily marry Kalli, because the Yerbha Empire was not so harsh as to expel refugees from the lost country. The problem was as follows. When it was revealed that Kalli was the last royal daughter to disappear during the fall of the Spirit Realm, Duke Lysch’s position in Hwando declined.
The Duke of Lysch was often excluded from imperial events, and even if he came to the imperial palace, there were many days when he could not see the Emperor. The reason was conjecture. The Emperor fears Callie, the last daughter of the Spirit Realm.
Callie, Ruler of the Spirit Realm, was a psychic and an outstanding wizard. And this ability was inherited by her daughter Lydiana. When Lydiana’s powers were revealed and the news reached Hwando, Callie faced a mysterious death. It was an untimely death for a member of the Spirit Realm who had a longer life span and slower aging than ordinary people.
Doubts arose in Duke Lysch’s head and eventually completed the great hypothesis. -The Fall of the Spiritual Realm is associated with the Empire of Yerbha.-
It was pretty silly to think about the reason. It will be more than one or two things. The most likely reason is the ability of the people of the Spirit Realm to command the spirits. Some of them possessed not only the power of the Spirit, but also excellent magical abilities, like Callie. All the people of the Kingdom were spiritists and wizards.
In particular, the royal family of the Spirit Realm, including Callie, possessed superior magical abilities. It is a natural talent that could easily upset the wizards of the Imperial Tower, and this ability was inherited through blood ties.
This has always been a source of concern for neighboring countries. The mages of the Empire had no chance of winning the war against the mages of the Spirit Realm, because they were of different rank. It must have been a battle between the Empire and the small country, but the power gap was overwhelmingly
inclined towards the Spirit Realm. Therefore, neighboring countries did not go against the Kingdom of Spirits.
Fortunately, the people of the Spirit Realm hated friction and disliked fighting. Thanks to their non-belligerent tendencies, they seemed to maintain peace with neighboring countries.
However, this eternal peace was broken when the Kingdom of Spirits fell. When the Spirit Realm disappeared, neighboring countries, including the Yerbha Empire, began to engage in territorial disputes as if they were waiting for it.
The conflict zone also included the former territory of the Spirit Kingdom, and now this land was occupied by the Yerbha Empire.
Since the mysterious death of Kalli, Duke of Lysch has not set foot in the Imperial City, let alone the Imperial Palace. This is because the Imparator family, which may have killed his wife, was hated by him.
It was the lovely daughter of Lydiana, who soothed the anger of Duke Lysch for a while.
-My father and mother died because they were pure-blooded representatives of the Spirit Realm. Lydiana persuaded her father to enter the palace again.
– People in the Spirit Realm lose their energy when they are in crowded places. Spirits are constantly talking about this.
Mixed-race Lydiana was a good girl who inherited the peaceful disposition of the people of the Spirit Realm.
– Do you know why my ancestors hid in the forest? It’s not to get caught up in a whirlpool of emotions. The air is always terribly stuffy in places where there are many people because of hatred, envy and greed.
In addition, it was Lydiana, not Callie, who looked more like the people from the Spirit Kingdom that Duke of Lysch had read about. Callie wanted to be more like ordinary people than a person from the Spirit Realm.
– But I’m mixed race, so it’s okay.
Lydiana grew up the way Callie wanted. She was a smart kid who even graduated from Kratie boarding school in order to inherit her title.
Lydiana convinced her father not to harbor hatred of the Imperial family. It was inevitable that the mother, who was exposed to all kinds of negative emotions in ordinary human society, died of weakness, appeasing the anger that the Duke of Lysch felt.
However, Lydiana fell in love with the then Prince Rietrich. Rietrich was much older than Lidina, married and had several children.
This was unacceptable. His precious daughter will become the Crown Prince’s mistress.
– Dad, please let me leave the baby.
The Duke of Lysch, who had brought the abortion medication, was also overwhelmed by his daughter’s pleas. Even if he is illegitimate, he is his daughter’s child. It was the birth of a precious heir to the Duke of Lysch.
However, when Lydiana nurtured Estella for ten months, a strange rumor reached the Duke. The few survivors of the Spirit Realm have met with mysterious deaths.
Strange. They could not be killed of their own accord. How can a person think about harming a natural spiritologist?
However, they all died, and the only remaining blood of the Spirit Realm was his daughter Lydiana and the baby in her belly.
But Lydiana died giving birth to Estella. No, she was killed. The cause of death is poisoning. Stefan, a magician healer from the Lysch family, came to the conclusion that Lydiana had been poisoned.
It has been suggested that Lydiana was exposed to the poison in some way. However, it still had to be determined what kind of poison it was. This is the conclusion that Stephen, the magical healer of the Lysch family, explained to the Duke.
Estella’s coming-of-age ceremony is just around the corner. Only at the age of 16 it was possible to find out whether the curse of the Empress was lifted or it was still on Estella. Even if Aster survives the curse …
What about the next one?
The Duke of Lysch, who had thought only of saving Estella, was now thinking. -If I die, who will protect Aster?-
He pleaded with the emperor. But the Emperor said:
– The question of succession to the throne will not depend on the jurisdiction of the law or the will of the Duke. Will the Emperor recognize his grandson as Prince if Aster can grow up safely after sixteen years?
Under imperial law, illegitimate children could legally inherit the throne. In the past, illegitimate children were prohibited from becoming heads of households.
It was Strauss, the chosen Emperor, who removed this law. The Emperor had an illegitimate son. Between him and his mistress, Karl. Charles laid claim to the throne and soon inherited it.
[Only the Prince can inherit the throne, of course, if there is no bAsterrd. In the absence of the bAsterrd, the Prince closest to the succession will succeed. ]
At the time, this was the first time in the Yerbha Empire that even women could simply inherit their families, which would embarrass the aristocracy.
Due to the opposition of the nobles, the law could not apply to them. Even now, however, only men could inherit the throne. The imperial government, not those who made the law, laughed at Yerbha’s law in other countries.
The Empress was Julia Hillett, niece of Carlea, who was a prominent Emperor. The Empress was bound by the laws of her ancestors. An illegitimate child born to her husband and mistress must also be given the right to inherit the throne.
Ironically, the Princes did not hesitate to kill their brothers because they were greedy for the Imperial power. Of the four brothers, only two remained. Therefore, the Hillets and Princes, striving for imperial power, will not let Aster go.
-Even if I die, Aster has to survive on his own.-
The title of Duke of Lysch can be transferred to Ritaus. Duke Lysch cherished thoughts of Ritaus for the future. Even if he died, he wanted Rethaus to protect Aster. Aster’s name was not entered in the family register, so his only grandson could not be his successor.
It was still a long way from entering the Kratie Academy and receiving a diploma. How could he send him to the Academy when he was hiding him from the Empress?
Then he had to transfer something else to Aster besides the title. The Duke did not tell anyone about his plans. He just prepared himself, step by step.
The Old Duke smiled with satisfaction when he saw the key-shaped pendant on his grandson’s neck. The Duke wanted Aster to be in a shining place where he was supposed to be, not where he was illegitimate. He wanted to give the best position so that no one would ignore or threaten him.
– When will you finish what you said?
Asked the cute grandson with an inflated face.
-The issue of ownership is at stake. That’s all you need to know. After that, I will no longer leave the estate.
– Ownership? What property?
– This is a right that only you can own.
– What’s the matter?
– Later … I’ll let you know later.
As he stroked his hair, similar to Callie’s, the grandson’s head turned to him. The grandson had a sullen face, but soon he buried his head in his grandfather’s chest. Duke Lysch embraced Estella.
His grandson, who only stayed with him, was too small. He was 15 years old, but he didn’t grow up at all. At the age of Aster, Ritaus was much larger than Aster is now …
When his voice changed, he worried that he would no longer be able to disguise himself as a girl, but now he worried that he had stopped growing.
-Until you become as tall as this old man, I will have to live.
– If I grow at a fast pace, my grandfather dies first.
– What should I do?
– What to do? You just have to live long.
Aster laughed as if he was talking all this nonsense.
Ritaus laughed because the conversation between Duke Lysch and Aster was so normal. Aster, sensitive like a time bomb, was just the usually sweet grandson in front of his grandfather.
At this moment, Ritaus suddenly had an ominous foreboding. Aster’s peace and happiness won’t last long. What he had just thought of surprised Ritaus, who shook his head. This is just a guess. It must be anxiety disorder.
However, whenever he saw Aster, who appeared to be a normal boy in front of his grandfather, he felt some pressure. Even though he was tired of Estella, he really wanted him to live well. However, contrary to Ritaus’s wishes, the premonition of trouble did not disappear.
SPOILER: Franz getting Marianne Pregnant
So yeah, our “uke” little brother gonna get his Fiance pregnant at the age 16 years old
. Franz entered a school for female only but because of donation the school became co-ed school, but he still the only boy there. Marianne demand to FL that she will let her Fiance in girls school like that alone. Then she followed Franz there. 3 month after she transfered, she became pregnant lmao.
. Franz entered a school for female only but because of donation the school became co-ed school, but he still the only boy there. Marianne demand to FL that she will let her Fiance in girls school like that alone. Then she followed Franz there. 3 month after she transfered, she became pregnant lmao.
Come to the Dark Side 
Super good series~~~
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please please update:) thank you so much for your hard work :):):)
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please update v2c10 pleaase .
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hola me gustaria que completaras el libro 2
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Thank you for the translation.
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