Suddenly I Became a Princess Volume 1 Chapter 3

Translated: reireiss, MTLs-nim 

Edited: reireiss, Grammarly ssi 

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Chapter 3 – Who are You?

As soon as I woke up in the morning, I was surprisingly 20 years old…… That's what I dreamed. Has my life ever turned out the way I wanted it to? I mean, once I wake up, being an adult is more realistic than being a princess in another world, right? So I thought, maybe this dream is a reality.

"Papa, I miss you!"

However, the reality is not like that. My daily routine is to lie with my sweet mouth and do aegyo to curry favor with Claude. After I found out more about what kind of person Claude was, my heart ached a little. But, even though I was lonely and sad, I didn't cry!

"Ah!"

After running through the green grass, I stopped in front of Claude. Then, as if I had just remembered it, I greeted him.

"Thank you for inviting Athi for tea."

I greeted him by slightly lifting the two ends of my dress according to the etiquette I had learned recently, I could feel Felix's laughter behind me. Yes, a child acts like an adult, isn't that cute? Yes, today I will be a little cuter than usual. To do this, I choose the cutest clothes I own, and I secretly practice in the mirror to see how I can look cuter.

Today's concept is a little lady who tries to look mature, but she is still not very good at etiquette. Of course, my still messy actions made people's brows furrow, but that could be covered by my cute appearance.

Fortunately, my operation seemed successful. Felix, even the servants standing next to the tea table, and even the servants outside the room glanced at me. I wore a white dress with flowing lace, it made me look like an angel. Of course, in this case, I'm the baby angel, not the angel eonni. Claude only raised his eyebrows once when he first saw me, when had he ever reacted the way I wanted him to?

"Felix."

After briefly answering Claude's call, Felix carried me. Finally, I was able to sit in a chair with Felix's help. That's because I'm still too short to be able to climb into a chair by myself. I've done this several times, now I understand that humans are adaptable creatures. As soon as I faced Claude, I smiled broadly at him and said,

"Good morning, Papa!"

It's currently 10 am. Initially, Claude always called me to drink tea together in the afternoon, but for some reason now tea time has been moved to the morning, precisely before lunch. A month ago, when I sang a lullaby to Claude, I didn't know what was going through his mind, he was really unpredictable.

However, every time I meet Claude, I always say 'Good morning, Papa!'. Even so, every time I greeted him like that, Claude just stared at my face for a moment without saying anything. As I expected, there wasn't any reply from him, but I continued to greet him like this.

"Yesterday, Papa appeared in Athi's dream!"

"Dream?"

"Athi, Papa, Lily, and Felix got on broomsticks and went to pick the stars and the moon and have fun!"

"That was a strange dream."

Hoho. Watch your mouth! I didn't care about Claude's response and continued smiling brightly.

"I also played on the soft clouds with Papa, Athi really liked it."

Claude smiled broadly when he heard all the nonsense I said. I don't know what I'm saying myself, so it doesn't matter. Ah, I can't do this anymore. Let's just eat cake.

But, suddenly, it occurred to me that the maid eonni who was preparing tea next to me was looking at me with her eyes wide open as if she was surprised. There were no servants or knights in the Emperor's Palace, but of course, there would be servants coming to prepare things when we drank tea or ate together. The maid eonni who is here today is the maid eonni I often see every time I drink tea with Claude. But this was the first time she saw us talking like this, so she must have been surprised. Even so, a veteran is still a veteran, she quickly controlled her expression and stepped back silently.

Today, Claude exuded a very languid atmosphere again. After meeting him many times, I became a little doubtful. Could it be that he didn't get enough sleep? Previously, he was still taking a nap when we were going to dinner, even in the morning like this, he still looked lethargic. Could he have low blood pressure? Or maybe he's still not fully awake? Then there's no need to call me. Just call me in the afternoon as usual. Why do you have to call me so early in the morning? He wants to hear 'Good morning' from me?

"Papa, is that drink delicious?"

By the way, Claude always drinks the same tea, I know it because of the familiar aroma. Claude's taste in tea is quite strong, he only drinks that tea every time we meet. For a moment, he looked hesitant, as if he didn't expect me to ask that, then he answered nonchalantly.

"I enjoy it not because of the taste."

I saw him tilt the teacup and then exclaim in admiration.

"Athi wants a drink like Papa's!"

For a month or so, I became a little closer to Claude and…… My courage became a little bigger to the point that I could play around with him by saying nonsense like that. Even I myself was impressed by my courage, it would be great if Claude could be melted by my courage and not want to kill me anymore.

"The aroma is a bit strong for you to enjoy, Princess."

Claude stopped drinking tea and looked at my face as if my words were a surprise. Then, instead, Felix who was beside me tried to persuade me, but I didn't nod, I put wind in my cheeks, inflated them, and continued to insist.

"Want the same drink!"

Felix's face became a little awkward, and to be honest, even though I like sweet things, my tongue would hurt from always drinking sweet tea or milk and cake. So I want to drink Claude's tea!

"Give it. If she really wants it, nothing can stop her."

Claude stood up for me, which made me happy. As soon as Claude gave the signal, the maid eonni who was waiting in the distance quickly approached, and following Claude's instructions, the maid eonni poured the steaming tea into a new cup as Claude ordered.

I lifted the cup of tea gracefully, just like I learned in etiquette class recently, and smelled the aroma. I felt that Felix was holding back his laughter again. But, as soon as I took a sip of this tea, I could see there was worry in Felix's eyes. I don't understand. Why should he feel worried?

"Athi loves it!"

I removed the teacup from my mouth and smiled brightly. After watching Claude drink it many times, I felt that the aroma suited my taste, and this taste did not disappoint. A bitter taste that my tongue, which was used to sugar, couldn't resist spread in my mouth. The aroma is quite unique, it seems that there will be people who like it and who don't like it.

"It feels like flowers are blooming in Athi's mouth!"

Hah? Why do they react like that to my words?

"You seem to like it."

Felix, who was stunned when he heard my words, immediately opened his mouth as if he had realized it. Maybe Claude thought that I would spit out this tea because it didn't taste good after tasting it. Otherwise, he wouldn't have made such an expression, but Claude's face became stiff as if I had said something I shouldn't have said. What's wrong with him?

"This is lippe tea. His Majesty likes it."

The tea's name is Lippe. All this time, Claude has been drinking delicious drinks like this alone, right? But, Felix's next words immediately caught my attention.

"Lady Diana really likes it too."

Felix looked at me with a slightly blurred gaze, as if he was reminiscing about something.

“‘It feels like flowers are blooming in my mouth.’ ……She said that too.”

I very rarely heard about Diana, the Mother of Athanasia, so I was interested in what Felix had to say. I glanced at Claude, then asked Felix as if I was an innocent child who didn't know anything.

"Mother and Athi said the same thing?"

"Yes?"

Felix smiled at me as if he was remembering Diana.

"The reason His Majesty first enjoyed lippe tea was because of her. The main ingredient in this tea comes from Siodonna. Ah, His Majesty and Lady Diana also often drink together at……"

"I don't remember that."

Right at that moment, Felix's words were interrupted by a low, ear-piercing voice. Claude didn't have the stiff face he had when he heard my words, but now his eyes were extremely cold.

"You said a lot of useless things today. It's noisy, so go away."

Despite Claude's sudden order telling him to leave, Felix just lowered his head without saying anything and left this green grassy garden. As for me…… I just stared at Claude, feeling a little uncomfortable.

What? Son of a bit#h! Now you think that Diana was just a passing woman? After all, I am a child born to Diana because of you. Irritating! Son of a bit#h! ……That woman's painted portrait, even you still can't throw it away.

I feel a little bad for some reason, even though Diana is not my biological mother. Just when I was thinking like that, Claude looked at me, and I smiled reflexively. Haa, my survival instinct is so strong.

"You're too young to drink tea, so you might as well drink milk."

"Hehe, Athi also likes milk."

This time, I couldn't say no for any reason, so I answered softly and smiled broadly at Claude.

***

Lately, I've been learning basic etiquette and basic culture from the teachers sent by Claude. She is Countess Eloise who is quite a well-known expert in this field. Of course, the education I received was not that strict because I was still very young. Noble children start getting an education when they are 8 years old, so I only took light classes.

However, Countess Eloise looked very surprised when I was able to imitate her well. I guess she must have imagined a 5-year-old girl wearing a dress and holding a toy stick, but of course, I wasn't that kind of kid! Even so, all I learned was just the basic etiquette for the Imperial Palace. Come to think of it, it was surprising for a 5-year-old child to sit and take classes so calmly.

Lily surprised Countess Eloise by bragging that I had been able to write since I was 4 years old. And after that, Countess Eloise increased the number of my lessons! Now, besides the basic etiquette of the Imperial Court, I also studied the formal language of Pascal, the history of Obelia, and works of world art. It's more fun than I thought, but learning something I've never known makes me crave sugar even more.

"Princess, all the chocolate was confiscated."

Boom!

Lily found out that I stole chocolate from the kitchen and ate it. The new maids didn't touch my snack shelf, so I often went to the kitchen to get chocolate and candy to eat. Plus, now Hannah and Seth are gone, so there's no one to secretly give me snacks. Therefore, when Lily limited my snacks, I had to take a risk and hide in the kitchen.

"I only ate a little..."

"Come on, Princess. Give me the chocolates you have now. I'll give it back to you after I finish my work."

Seeing Lily's firm expression, I finally took out the chocolates that I put in my pocket. One, two, three, four. Lily looked at the amount of chocolate I gave her, then she looked at me as if to say 'That's it?' Lily again made a firm expression at me.

"If you eat too much of it, your teeth will hurt."

Huhuhuuu. I know it! But how could I give up something as delicious as this!!?

"If you finish your homework, then I'll give you chocolate."

I felt frustrated, and then I cried. Then, as if to calm me down, Lily promised to give me chocolate as a reward for finishing my homework. I felt sorry for myself for not being able to eat as much chocolate as I wanted, but on the other hand, I also felt ashamed for being sad just because of things like this considering my actual age. So, as soon as I saw Lily get up from her seat, I looked down at my homework again, and at that moment, Lily's worried words entered my ears.

"Just now, I saw the empty snack basket. I was worried that your teeth might have cavities."

No, wait a minute. I haven't eaten that much! That is not me! Not meeeee!

"Li—"

"Even so, I will give you a snack if you do your homework well and behave. My Princess, you understand, right?"

I looked at Lily desperately as she walked out the door with a smile on her face. That snack basket is empty? The last time I looked, there were still chocolates left. Did someone eat my chocolates? Who's that? What kind of maid eonni is she? Uwaaa, I don't know who she is, but she's been stealing and eating my snacks. Sigh. My chocolates. Plus, Lily thought I was the one who ate it all! It's very unfair, but it seems like my words won't be believed. In the end, I finished the homework that Countess Eloise gave me feeling very nervous, then I ate the chocolate that Lily gave me.

"What are you drawing, Princess?"

"Stupid Felix! This is Lily, the most beautiful person in the world!"

And now, I'm lying on my stomach on the carpet and scribbling on a piece of paper. Of course, drawing is good for children's emotional development. But in fact, my drawing was so messed up that no one thought that this was Lily, but maybe that was because Felix had annoyed me in various ways, finally the word 'stupid' came out of my mouth.

"Ah, this time I know who. That's His Majesty, right?"

Felix, who pretended not to hear my teasing, finally took out another piece of paper and pretended to know the man I drew.

"Ding! Wrong."

Erm, but that's not completely wrong.

"Felix, I'll give this to you."

Felix took what I gave him in confusion and for a moment he looked at the face drawn on the paper. Then, as if he didn't believe it, he asked again,

"Impossible. It's me?"

So which one? You said, 'Impossible' and then asked if that was him. Is this because he was surprised I drew it? Or because my drawing was bad, so he said 'Impossible'.

"Princess…… Thank you very much. I will make it a family heirloom."

No need to go that far. Ahem. I didn't feel impressed by that.

"Lily, Lily! This is a gift for you."

"Oh my, am I this beautiful?"

"Beautiful! As beautiful as heaven and earth!"

I gave the drawing to Lily, she smiled broadly when she received that. Now, it's time for me to draw Claude. I hummed and started drawing on a new piece of paper. Hehehehe. I'll draw it really badly.

"I'm sure His Majesty would be very happy if you gave him that picture."

No. Of course, it's impossible for me to give this, right? This caricature I drew is the ugliest in the universe, so if I give this to him, he'll probably kill me. And even if I give this as a gift, there's no way he'll be happy and accept it, right?

"Take it!"

"This is a picture of His Majesty and the Princess playing together."

No, that's a picture of me kicking Claude to the ground. I felt sorry for myself for having to relieve stress this way, but I had no other choice.

Let's see. Who else can I draw? After thinking about it for a while, I decided to draw the person in my head. However, once I drew the round face, I couldn't continue due to a lack of data. Hmmm. In the first place, her hair and eyes are this color, and…… Is her hair this length? Or maybe like this?

"Lily, Lily…"

"Yes, Princess."

I tilted my head and pondered, in the end, I chose to ask Lily.

"What does my mother look like?"

I felt like the air stopped for a moment.

"Mother, Athi wants to draw her. But Athi doesn't know what Mother's face looks like."

Felix and Lily looked stunned for some reason but finally came to their senses because I asked them again and again.

"Is her hair straight like Lily's? Or wavy?"

Soon, Lily answered with a faint smile.

"She has beautiful wavy shiny blonde hair like you, Princess."

"Heee. This long?"

"Shorter than that."

I also asked about Diana's face shape, whether she had bangs, the position or height of her eyebrows, and Lily always answered in a friendly manner. When we did, Felix just stood there silently, not interrupting our conversation for some reason. Uhhh, good. Now I can draw it. When I thought that I was almost done drawing Diana's face, I took colored pencils and started coloring it.

"She is a very kind and beautiful person, just like you, Princess Athanasia."

"Like Athi?"

Even though I already knew it, it turned out that Lily really really liked Diana. Even now, she was looking at me with a distant gaze as if she was drawing Diana's face in her memory.

By the way, in <Lovely Princess>, it was said that Diana was a beautiful dancer who attracted everyone's attention, I wonder how beautiful she was. Of course, it was said that she looked a lot like me, but I couldn't imagine her face with a baby face like this. Oh, if you think about it, even the arrogant Claude also loves Diana and in the end they have Athanasia. Hmmm, Diana must be an extraordinary beauty.

"I want to see her too."

Geez. I'm curious, curious! I want to see her in person, at least once. But unfortunately, even if it was just once, I still wouldn't be able to see her. Maybe in a decade or so, I'll stand in front of a mirror and I'll feel like I'm looking at Diana, but that's if I'm still alive by then. Ughhh.

"……"

"……"

……Eh? Something seems to be wrong. What kind of silent atmosphere is this? Without much thought, I raised my head —wanting to ask. But instead, I was surprised by the faces I saw. No wonder the atmosphere became like this, Lily and Felix were looking at me with strange faces.

Felix pursed his lips as if he wanted to say something to me, but then he closed his mouth heavily and looked at me with a stiff gaze. As for Lily, she looked at me with an uneasy gaze.

However, for some reason, both of them gave off an atmosphere that seemed like this was bound to happen, and I became very confused. And after a while, it finally dawned on me why they were like that.

Was just now, when I said that I wanted to see Diana…… Did I say it out loud? If so, then their reaction is reasonable. A 5-year-old child, for the first time, said that she wanted to see her dead mother, of course, they couldn't help but be restless. Haha. But I didn't mean it like that! For a moment, I blinked in embarrassment, then I smiled.

"You and Lily's faces are weird!"

"……"

"You guys are like the round goblins Athi saw yesterday!"

I even made jokes that weren't appropriate for my age, I even made silly imitations. Can't you guys lighten the mood? What will you do with this uncomfortable atmosphere!? It felt like my whole body was shrinking.

"Haa, drawing is no longer fun. Let's go out and have fun."

Da#n! I can't hold it in anymore. I have to run from this. I couldn't stand this heavy atmosphere, so I left the paper and colored pencils on the floor, then got up and walked away.

"Princess……"

Finally Lily and Felix opened their mouths after seeing me leave, but I rushed out of the room before another awkward situation occurred.

***

After that, the two of them continued to stare at me for days. Of course, I've tried not to show it but I'm just a kid after all. Even though I had pretended as if nothing had happened, why were they trying to explain Diana to me? I felt uncomfortable and awkward because she wasn't my real mother. So please stop looking at me! Aaahhhh. The two of them grabbed me a few times and tried to talk, but every time that happened, I always smiled and avoided them. It looks like they will give up soon.

Then, at lunchtime, Felix left my palace for a while, then about an hour later he returned, he came into my room and called Lily. They left the room without a sound, leaving me who was reading Obelia's history book.

Wait…… I felt something strange behind me. I felt that what they were discussing in whispers was something related to me. It could be something very, very dangerous for me!

I jumped out of the chair and rushed towards the door. Luckily, Lily left the door slightly open, so I could hear their conversation.

"I've looked to see if there is a memory stone showing Lady Diana's figure, but it says there is none kept in the Imperial Palace."

“I see…… What a shame.”

The words 'memory stone' that Felix said stuck in my ears. Oh, yeah. Come to think of it, this is a magical world. Seeing magic with my two eyes is my biggest dream! I completely forgot about that because lately, I've always been busy thinking about how to continue living. The memory stone has a similar function to videos in my previous life, it is a magical item that can store videos of about 30 seconds in length and store them in a gem. If you are a Imperial Mage, then of course you can make videos on the memory stone.

But it seems there is no memory stone containing Diana's video. Isn't that a natural thing? She was just a dancer who had danced in front of the Emperor, so it was impossible for her to make an expensive memory stone like that. However, Felix looked down as if he had done something wrong.

"I want Princess Athanasia to see Lady Diana's figure."

"Sir Robane……"

I've felt it since the last time, it seems Felix also likes Diana, just like Lily. That's weird. Wasn't Diana just a woman who got attention from Claude and then she was ignored in the Ruby Palace after having me? I already knew the story about Lily and Diana's friendship in the novel, but the reaction of Claude and Felix that I saw when drinking tea together last time was very strange.

However, suddenly my doubts vanished after I heard Felix's words,

"I will speak with His Majesty."

What? What do you want to talk to Claude about?

"With His Majesty's power, he can send images of his memories to someone."

Then Lily let out an exclamation, "Ah!" as if she had just remembered it. I was the only one who listened to their story in confusion.

"It won't be as clear as a memory stone because it's a personal memory, and it's been a long time since it passed, but it would allow it to show Lady Diana to the Princess for a while."

I was stunned to hear that. What?! You mean Claude can use that kind of magic? I guess he can only use magic to hurt people!

"But will His Majesty allow that to happen?"

"This is for the Princess. I will ask His Majesty to do it."

But that's not the case now. Wait, wait, wait a minute! Wait a moment! Is that knight oppa crazy, really crazy!? If you ask, do you think Claude will agree? To be honest, I doubt whether Claude remembers Diana in a positive way, but what if Claude wants to kill me because I remind him of an annoying woman? Even if that wasn't the case, if I bothered Claude like that, I would really lose out. Even though I had been suspicious since before, Felix, this knight oppa, couldn't see Claude's eyes properly.

“Then, I will meet His Majesty now……”

"Do not do it!"

Because it was something that threatened my life, I instinctively kicked the door wide open and ran towards the two of them. Aaahhhh. I think I've spoken too loudly. They were both surprised because I opened the door and shouted suddenly. I tried to calm myself down and spoke in a normal voice.

"No."

"Princess."

"Don't tell Papa about Mother."

I said that while pulling the hem of my dress, Lily didn't say anything for a while, and then she asked with a sad face.

"Why, Princess?"

No, why is your face like that? I'm fine! But it seems like I've interfered too much with their conversation. I don't know what to say to get these people to leave me alone. What were the exact words Athanasia might have said? Ugh! Oh my, quickly think!

"Papa doesn't like it when Athi talks about Mother."

Suddenly, I remembered the incident when we drank tea together last time. Claude responded to Felix's words more cruelly than usual.

"If Athi says that Athi wants to see Mother,"

Uwaaaaa, I think I'm almost crazy. Somebody help me!

"What if Papa also hates Athi?"

"Princess!"

Lily opened her eyes wide as if she didn't believe my words.

“Do you…… Really think like that?”

Ugh! Lily's trembling voice made my heart beat really fast. She looked at me with eyes that almost shed tears. Of course, I was very embarrassed. Oh, I'm sorry, Lily. Excuse me! I don't know what to say, actually, I don't want to say such words. Oh no! You're not really crying, are you? Don't cry, Lily! It is my fault!

"Princess."

Just when I was having a mental breakdown, Felix called me. Kneeling on the floor on one leg, he reached out his hand, grabbing my shoulder. Of course, this made our eyes level, we looked at each other, but Felix's eyes looked more serious than usual.

"His Majesty does not hate it. I swear, I would bet my name on it."

He looked straight into my eyes as if he was trying to give me confidence. Then firmly, he said again,

"His Majesty does not hate Lady Diana or you, Princess Athanasia."

Eh………… What should I do now? My conscience pricked because Lily became sad and Felix became very serious. Ughhh, have I fooled these naive people now? I just thought that those were suitable words for Athanasia to say, so I spat them out randomly as a last resort…………

"So it's okay if you are honest and say that you miss Lady Diana."

The situation was shifting in the wrong direction.

"Princess, you are still young. You don't need to learn to restrain yourself."

I opened my mouth and rolled my eyes in dismay, then muttered uncertainly,

"It's not like that, Athi is fine. Athi doesn't want to see Mother anymore. Athi is serious."

However, both of them looked disbelieving. Lily was still looking at me with a sad look, and Felix showed a sad expression in his own way. In the midst of that, all I could do was break out in a cold sweat on my back. Da#n! What should I do now? But then, Felix smiled sadly at me as if he had no other choice, and this time, he spoke more cheerfully than before.

"How about this? If it's difficult for you to say it, I will take your place in speaking to His Majesty."

Bruh! It's back to square one! Why do you think I interrupted the conversation between you two!!? Oppa, do you really want to kill me?

"No need to do that!"

"No. I will talk to His Majesty……"

Da#n it! I pushed Felix who was in front of me and shouted in frustration.

"No!"

Argh, my hand hurts! Even though I was the one who pushed him, why was I the one who bounced? I could clearly feel that he was surprised by my actions. My conscience stung, but I couldn't hold it in any longer. If I didn't do this, I think Felix would really tell Claude about this.

"If you tell Papa, then Papa will hate Athi! He will really, really hate Athi! Athi already said that Athi doesn't want to see Mother anymore!"

When I shouted all that, Felix opened his mouth as if he wanted to say something to me again, but I didn't want to hear it anymore. I'm sure that will only make me even more confused! Moreover, I'm really uncomfortable with this situation. Heyyy, let's run away! I turned and ran before Felix could say something to me.

"Princess!"

I heard Lily's cries calling for me, but even that couldn't stop me from walking. Then, where should I go…………

This is my room. Ughhhh, Haaaa, but I don't have a choice anymore! Even if I went out, there was nowhere else to go, and if I left the palace now, Lily would worry.

I felt a little awkward, I sat back down in front of the table where Obelia's history books were open. Then, after a while, Lily opened the door and came over to me.

"Princess."

"I'm reading."

Ugh, sorry. Please leave me alone for now. Luckily, Lily who was standing quietly beside me seemed to know my thoughts, and after a while, she left the room silently.

"Aaaahhhhhhh."

Soon after, I buried my face in the book. What should I do now? This situation is beyond repair. Ughhhh. Maybe Felix would still talk to Claude? Initially, this was just an urgent thread, but it turned out to be another life trial. Please, is there someone who can help me in this situation? Sob.

***

The next day, the three of us didn't sleep well and our faces became swollen from lack of sleep. It seems that Felix and Lily couldn't sleep well at night because they were worried about me yesterday, and I couldn't rest comfortably because I felt sorry for them. Besides, whether she knew that I was pretending to sleep or not, last night Lily patted me and said, 'Lady Diana is always by your side, Princess Athanasia' or 'I'm sure Lady Diana will be happy to see you, Princess Athanasia grew up so beautiful like this'. Because of the noise, of course, with a heavy heart, I couldn't sleep. From the start, I didn't mean to say that I wanted to see Diana! Ughh, guys, be careful, self-talk is very dangerous. If you make a mistake, your life could end right then and there.

"It seems we have to go now."

I stopped licking the round, flat candy that was on the stick, and I looked at Felix. Today Claude called me to his palace again, it's time for Claude to wake up so I can't be late. Claude always calls me to his palace, but he never visits the Ruby Palace! I feel unfair about it, but I can't do anything. If I had crazy courage, then I hit Claude… Hmmm, maybe that would be the day my life ends. Sob.

But today, Felix, who usually would immediately carry me, now hesitated. For a moment, I looked at him curiously, then I realized what Felix was thinking. Ouch, this oppa, he seems surprised because yesterday I shouted at him for talking about Diana, and I even pushed him with my hand. It must have been a shock for him, so now he's hesitant to touch me.

That doesn't mean I don't understand, after you fight -whether with children or adults, things will definitely get awkward between them. Moreover, if that person pushed him first.

With candy in my mouth, I looked at Felix who was hesitating, apparently, he was confused. Then, with the hand that wasn't holding the candy, I opened my mouth while pulling the hem of his pants.

"Athi's feet hurt."

I can't help it. I have to ask for peace first. From the start, this wasn't Felix's fault, and yesterday I suddenly acted rudely towards him. Besides, Felix and Lily must be worried because they thought I was a 5-year-old child. But even though I've invited him to make up like this, I still feel like my conscience is scratched to the point of being destroyed. Sob.

"Carry me."

And since I'm still a child, it's best to be a carefree child without worrying as if I've forgotten what happened yesterday. Then, I looked at him with an innocent gaze, Felix stopped for a moment, and after a while, with a low sigh, a familiar arm lifted me up.

"Then we'll go first."

"Lily, see you!"

"See you."

But, isn't this like the scene of a newlywed and their daughter? Lily smiled gently as if she was quite relieved when I looked fine. And so did Felix. Wait, after that incident, they didn't secretly meet, right? No! Lily is mine!!

"Today I will take you to the Throne Room."

Sitting on Felix's broad back, I stared at the back of his head with restless eyes while sucking on a piece of candy.

"It looks like we'll have to wait a bit."

This is the second time that I've seen the door to the Throne Room. The other day, together with Lily, I passed through this door when I met Claude. How much time has passed since that day? No, should I tell you how to get through today? Many things happened as I struggled to survive. By the way, if you're going to make someone wait, at least give them a waiting room. Anyway, Claude's manners haven't changed. Bast#rd! You da#n dog!

Kriett.

But, while I was cursing Claude, the door to the Throne Room opened. Oh, is it finally my turn to come in? But, someone who had been in the Throne Room had to come out first, only then could I enter.

The door of the Throne Room was truly majestic, so I thought that anyone who appeared through this door would definitely look small, but that wasn't the case. The person who appeared through the door of the Throne Room was a man who looked slightly older than Claude and Felix. He seemed to have some kind of spirit or aura, it felt like there was an energy flowing from him that accentuated his presence. Claude and this uncle have different charisma. This uncle looked young, but he also looked older because he had grayish hair. I watched him while continuing to lick my candy. However, it seems that Felix and this uncle know each other. He looked at Felix and he was the first to open his mouth.

"Sir Robane."

Ugh, what is this? He met Claude in the Throne Room, so I assumed he was a noble, but it turns out he was the type of person who felt happy when he met Felix. Was he that close to Felix?

"Duke Alphaeus, long time no see."

However, the next second, I was shocked by the name that came out of Felix's mouth. Uh, what? Duke Alphaeus? This guy? Are you serious? Alphaeus is a noble family who raised Zenith until she was 14 years old!

"I was wondering why I didn't see you in the Throne Room, turns out you are here."

I opened my eyes wide and stretched my head onto Felix's shoulder. It seems that this uncle's hair is not grayish, but grayish-white. Haa, I remember it. Izekiel Alphaeus, the male protagonist in <Lovely Princess>, is the number one bachelor in the Empire who has sparkling silver hair. Seeing this, it seems that his hair pigment was inherited from his father.

"Oops, I've never seen you before."

Seeing my face exposed on Felix's shoulder, it seemed like he had just realized my existence. Not long after, he politely greeted me.

"Princess, I am Roger Alphaeus. May Obelia's prosperity be with you."

He was polite enough, but if this guy was Roger Alphaeus, then I already knew exactly what was inside. Zenith —who was later recognized as the 2nd Princess of the Imperial Family and cemented her position as Claude's sole heir after the death of the First Princess, Athanasia, was cared for by Duke Alphaeus since Zenith was still a baby. Why would Duke Alphaeus, who has no relationship with Zenith or her mother, accept Zenith's Aunt, the Countess's request to hide Zenith? This is where Duke Alphaeus' ambition is hidden.

Of course, that didn't mean that the people in the Duke's Residence didn't love the beautiful Zenith. However, Duke Alphaeus was more interested in the glory that Zenith would bring him later. In fact, Roger Alphaeus was a man with great ambition —in a sense, he took advantage of Zenith.

Moreover, with the marriage of his son, Izekiel Alphaeus, to Princess Zenith, he gained great power. And now, he is in front of me with a friendly face. Uh, what's wrong? Are you comparing me to Zenith? Wow, you stupid man, I'm only 5 years old. However, I just smiled like a fool at Roger Alphaeus.

"Hehehe. Hello, Albie!"

T/N: Basically, Athi called him 'White' in a tone like calling a dog.

So, is Zenith growing well?

"Al……"

Felix, who unconsciously repeated my words, was immediately stunned. It was as if he had just realized that I was referring to Roger Alphaeus who was in front of me. Like Felix, Roger Alphaeus was also stunned until he asked,

“Could it be…… Your words were referring to me?”

"Hey, Albie. You look like a white dog."

"……"

"Do you want this candy? It's delicious, you know."

Once again, I spoke while smiling and held out the candy covered in my saliva to him as if to do something nice. Roger Alphaeus seemed confused by what I said and did because all my actions deviated from common sense. Why? Have Izekiel and Zenith never done this to you?

"Pfttt."

However, Felix, who was facing Roger Alphaeus, suddenly laughed —even though he kept trying to hold back his laughter. Then, Felix's shoulders started shaking………… This oppa, it seemed like he wanted to laugh out loud. I know you're trying hard not to make a sound, but what about your shaking body?

"Oh, Princess, it seems you like Duke Alphaeus."

"……"

Of course, hearing those words didn't make Roger Alphaeus feel any better. Now, if it were Izekiel or Zenith, they would definitely be scolded severely out of courtesy, but he couldn't do that to me, so I could only move my eyebrows while trying hard to control my facial expression.

I waved the candy rapidly in front of his face. Now, that uncle's eyebrows were really going up and down like a roller coaster, but no matter how much he restrained himself, he couldn't refuse the gift I gave him. So, right now he must be wondering whether he would stretch his hand forward or not. Until finally he stretched his hand forward.

I bent my arm before his hand reached my candy. Not surprisingly, Roger Alphaeus did something in vain, his hands could only stay still in the air. Once again, I started sucking on my candy while looking at Roger Alphaeus' golden eyes that radiated a gleam of confusion.

Slurpppp, slurpppp, slurpppppp.

"……"

Slurppppppppp.

"……"

Isn't this very ridiculous? This may not be very funny, but you have to wonder if there is such a thing as being angry with a 5-year-old. Hehehe. It was fun making fun of this uncle. After a while, while looking at him with a seemingly ridiculous look and still pointing at him with candy, I said to Roger Alphaeus with a scary expression,

"Hmph. You bad doggy! White dog shouldn't eat things like this."

"Pffttttt."

Felix couldn't stop my behavior, but since then he's been busy holding back laughter all the time. Roger Alphaeus, the person who usually leads the nobles with his cold charisma, is now being treated like this by me.

“Really…… Princess, you are truly adorable.”

Roger Alphaeus was silent for a moment, then he mumbled as if he was chewing something and then swallowing it. Ouch. Looks like I should stop teasing you now.

"Athi wants to meet Papa!"

"Ahem. Then, let's go in."

When I whined, Felix, who had been holding back his laughter the whole time, now tried to improve the situation. He cleared his throat and said to Roger Alphaeus that the atmosphere around him had changed drastically since the first time we met.

"Then, the Princess and I will go in. Duke Alphaeus, if you'll excuse me."

"Bye-bye, Albie!"

“It is an honor to meet you………… May Obelia's prosperity be with you.”

However, in the end, he showed me a calm expression and tone of voice, he was truly a Duke. But there was still a pause in the sentence. I mean, even adults are narrow-minded. I waved goodbye to Roger Alphaeus with a smile, he couldn't curse me so he could only smile too. Through the gap of the door that was about to slowly close, he smiled awkwardly at me, as if he couldn't hold it in anymore, but it made me feel very happy.

"You guys are here."

As soon as I entered the Throne Room, I saw Claude sitting on a large throne with his chin resting on his hands. Did he also behave like this when he met Roger Alphaeus just now?

"Yes, Your Majesty. I met Duke Alphaeus at the front."

"Albie!"

Responding to my call, Claude expressed a question.

"Albie?"

"He looks like a white fluffy puppy!"

Claude realized what I was talking about, for a moment, I saw the corners of his mouth twitch. It was a very small level of excitement, but I could see it clearly. You just laughed! You laughed at him!

"That's a fitting nickname for Alphaeus who is always barking."

After all, he is still a Duke, and in the original story, he would have been your in-law! So now, you're saying that that person is always barking?

"Is something upsetting you?"

"I always listen to what they say, but it's just one word."

Claude ended the conversation by waving his hand as if it was annoying. But then, suddenly he looked at Felix. After that, the corners of his mouth formed a deep arc, this time, it was clearly visible.

"You've become a nanny."

Wow, how can you be so cruel? But Felix laughed embarrassedly when Claude said that. Then, Felix put me down from his back, and as soon as my feet touched the floor, I limped towards Claude. Oh! Right, I forgot. I turned around and jogged towards Felix. A question appeared in Felix's eyes, I handed Felix my candy and then walked back towards Claude.

"Come to think of it, I heard that Duke Alphaeus has a child the same age as the Princess."

Felix who couldn't throw away what I gave him could only put on a confused expression, he finally stood up with my candy in his hand. In the meantime, please take care of me, I mean, my candy.

"As I recall, it was a boy."

After I looked closely, it turned out that the chair Claude was sitting on was very majestic. Wow, look at this gem, it's big and shiny! I don't think anyone would notice if one of these gems disappeared…………

While I was salivating and coveting the jewels attached to the throne, Felix talked about the son of Roger Alphaeus, the person I had just met earlier. Hah? That boy is Izekiel, right?

"Wouldn't it be fine if you made him a companion for the Princess?"

Claude, who was sitting on the throne with his chin resting on his hand, was quietly watching what I was doing. Suddenly I realized it, suddenly I was shocked. What's wrong, why are you looking at me like that? I, I haven't done anything! I just stared at the gems because it looked beautiful! Still, suddenly my thoughts of being a thief disappeared because Claude watched me continue to stare at these gems without blinking an inch. So, I pretended to be innocent, opened my eyes wide, and said,

"Will Athi have friend?"

Felix seemed happy when I was interested in it. But Claude, who was already unhappy after meeting Duke Alphaeus, now smiled coldly at Felix and me.

"Just the thought of two children running around the Imperial Palace makes me feel uncomfortable."

Oops, I think I was careless. I should have said that I don't need a friend. I couldn't react well because I was distracted by the gems! Sorry, I won't get distracted again!

"I hate noisy kids. Besides, that kid looks like Roger Alphaeus, just thinking about it makes me sick."

“Haha…… That's a bit—”

On the other hand, Felix was triggered by Claude's words, saying that Izekiel was similar to Roger Alphaeus. Hmm, even Felix, who is synonymous with stupidity, reacted like that, so I have an idea of what kind of person Albie is. Too bad. But I became a little curious about the appearance of the male protagonist, the younger version of Izekiel.

Now, he is 3 years older than Zenith, or 4 years older? Yes, 3 or 4 years older is not much different………

Cring!

"Ugh."

Suddenly my body jolted. I was confused by the floating feeling that enveloped my entire body. So, to resolve this question, I raised my head…… I ended up being 100 times more confused than before.

……Hah? What? Why do I see Claude's face instead of Felix? When I turned my head curiously, Felix who was still standing in the same place entered my field of view. No, then what is this? What situation is this? It's unbelievable, but once I assess the situation as a whole, there's only 1 answer. Oh my, what is this, what now, Claude, is Claude carrying me? Of course, he lifted me with one arm and put me on his side as if he was carrying something, but still, right now I'm being carried by Claude!! My arms and legs that were hanging down shook along with Claude's footsteps.

Uwaaa, Huwaaaa. It's surprising, why would you do something you've never done? Is it time for me to die!? Being carried directly by Claude like this really gave me goosebumps. He rolled up the opaque curtain hanging behind the throne while carrying me. Ah, it turns out this isn't a wall. Behind this curtain was a carpet that looked soft, and on top of it was a pillow filled with cotton that looked very soft. I became even more confused when Claude lowered me in the middle of it gently.

"I've heard dogs barking since morning, I'm tired."

The sun is high. And again, you said dogs bark? That Albie is the one who will be your in-laws! Haa, what would happen if Zenith and Izekiel got married like in the original story?

Oh, by the way, these pillows that look very soft are indeed soft. What goes into it?

As I pressed against the pillow, Claude lay down next to me leisurely. Ugh, is this a place made for resting like this? No, this is the Throne Room, this is the Throne Room, right? With a heavy heart, I turned to Claude then immediately held my nose and turned my face away.

Argh! Oh my gosh, don't do this. Can you dress neatly? His stomach muscles were clearly visible because Claude lay freely between these pillows without caring about his clothes. I've felt it many times until now, but the muscles are really strong. But… Hey, dude! Shouldn't you be careful! How can you lie down so casually that your clothes are open like that? Ugh, I feel so embarrassed. Even so, I will not fall for your beauty! But, why do I keep glancing at the skin that is visible between the gaps in his clothes? I felt like I had lost.

"That song at that time."

Gosh! That was surprising, I thought he knew I was peeking. I mean, don't suddenly talk like that. My heart is only the size of a small rabbit, so I'm easily startled. But, what song do you mean? I tilted my head.

"Song?"

"A song that drives away nightmares."

"Ah! Lullaby!"

"Lullaby?"

Oops, wrong. Shut up, shut up me! Oh My God, where is the cancel button? Claude narrowed his eyes and looked at me as if he was suspicious. This bastard, that happened a month ago, why do you still remember it!!?

"Whatever it is."

Luckily, Claude quickly changed his words as if it weren't a problem. However, the words he said after that, didn't put me in the 'Lucky' category.

"Sing it for me."

Hah!? What? Do you want me to play tricks to entertain you? I doubted my ears heard the right thing, but Claude still looked at me while lying down. His eyes seemed to be secretly asking for something. Hey, you! You...... Da#n dog! No matter how lowly my life is, do I have to do the things you want? Should I put on a show for you? It doesn't matter that I look like a 5-year-old child, mentally I'm an adult. Isn't this outrageous?

"Athi forgot that one."

Uwaaaa, I was in a very critical situation last time, so I sang a lullaby. I feel very embarrassed if I have to do it now. So I pretended not to know anything and looked Claude in the eye. Yeah, I don't know that song! So, I can't do it even if you want me to sing it for you!

"Forget?"

Yes! That was a month ago, I'd forgotten!

"I can make you remember."

Give up, you persistent bast#rd!

"Come to think of it, this reminds me, there used to be some rebels who foolishly tried to harm me in this Throne Room not long after I sat on the throne."

Suddenly Claude started talking about the past.

"After they were all arrested and forced to kneel, 'There is no mastermind behind all this, I don't know anything'. That's what they said."

As I listened to the story, I felt a cold sweat on my back. Claude spoke in a calm tone as if he was talking about a story from the past that suddenly appeared in his mind. But, for some reason, there was a red light flashing in front of me, giving me a warning.

"So I forced them to unlock their memories."

Da#n, da#n! My feelings are never wrong. I can't believe you want to make me remember that. As soon as I heard his words, my spine felt extremely cold.

"Even though I know hundreds of ways to restore memories that have evaporated over the years,"

Aaahhhh! You can't do that! No. No. Impossible. Please don't say that. The method used by assassins to reveal their plans? That's torture, right? Torture, right!? Huwaaaaaa.

"I can't use that method on you."

Of course not, of course not! If you use such horrible methods on a child like me, that means you are a human being worse than a psychopath! Huhuhuuu. Mother, I'm so scared.

"Before, you seemed to know the song well, but now you've forgotten it……"

"Athi remember. A lullaby!"

I can't insist anymore that I don't remember it because I'm so scared! Arghhhh. Even though he was fine earlier, why did he suddenly become scary like this!? You scared me. Don't you feel sorry for making me tremble like this?

"Athi will sing it for Papa. Hehe."

I thought I'd cross the Jordan River while playing around to save my useless pride. Yes, I don't want to imagine him making my memories of that song unlock with such a method…… Oh, I don't want to imagine it.

T/N: The Jordan River is a river that flows from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea. The meaning of the Jordan River here is that Athi considers that this situation puts her on the road to death.

“When night falls…………”

I started singing sadly with the feeling as if I was being dragged to a slaughterhouse.

"The beautiful star will greet you and smile~ Goodbye today, tomorrow will come a brighter morning~"

Ugh, I feel like a beggar. Claude, you bast#rd, you embarrass me.

However, even after I finished singing the song, this je*k kept looking at me, as if he was asking what I was doing. Hey! This song is indeed short! I've sung it for you! In the end, I had to keep singing lullabies until he was satisfied. And only after I repeated it 6 times, Claude closed his eyes. What? You make me do embarrassing things like this so you can sleep! Aarggghhhhhhh.

I waved my hand at Claude's face and poked his cheek to see if he was really asleep, when I found that he hadn't woken up, I tickled his chest. Once I was sure Claude was really asleep, I couldn't hold it in anymore, I started crumpling Claude's hair as if I was pulling weeds. Lucky me! You think you can humiliate me like this and I won't do anything. Ei, Ei, Ei! Be bald!

"Is His Majesty asleep?"

Ugh, what a surprise! I was shocked when I heard Felix's voice from behind the curtain. His voice sounded so close, it seemed like he was standing right in front of me. Since when were you there?

"Uh, Y-Yes."

"That's surprising. He's not the type to show a helpless appearance in front of others."

In his words, there was a sound of laughter. It makes me want to hide in a mouse hole.

"It seems the song you sang was very effective, Princess."

Ugh! Did you hear my singing too? Aaahhhh. Now I can't see Felix's face anymore. Very embarrassing.

"Princess."

"What is it?"

I struggled and rolled between the pillows. Then, Felix called me once again. Ugh, what the hell do you want to say? Yes, if you have something to say, just say it.

"Yesterday, I did the wrong thing."

It turned out he wanted to apologize for what happened yesterday.

"I should not move as I please without you, the Princess's permission. I am short-sighted."

Eh? What? Why else are you apologizing to me? Uwaaa, this makes me feel even more guilty.

"I just thought that you would feel happy if you saw Lady Diana."

No, that's just your thoughts and Lily's thoughts. In the first place, I did say that I wanted to see Diana...... That's because she is Athanasia's mother, so of course my heart goes out to the child who doesn't even know what her mother looks like. Hah, but I'm angry at that person (Claude) who has no conscience and even commits physical violence(?) Yes, even though he (Claude) didn't actually do that (physical violence), right?

"Uh, Hey."

Ugh. If you look around, at that time I really acted like trash. Haha.

"Uhm, Athi is also sorry for pushing you yesterday."

I wanted to change the topic, but because Felix apologized first, I couldn't just keep quiet. Just as I was feeling uneasy and apologizing to him, I heard a low laugh from outside.

"I'm fine. I was a little hurt, but I'm healing."

Ugh, that's a lie! That push as light as cotton doesn't make him hurt! Instead, it was my hands that felt tingling when pushing Felix! In fact, I was the one who bounced because of that push! But, before I say the wrong thing like what happened yesterday, I would just be silent like a dead rat. Haha.

By the way, Claude is really sleeping, right? Even after I made Claude's nose look like a pig's nose, I felt relieved once again because he didn't move.

"Actually, I also lost my mother when I was little —although not as little as you, Princess Athanasia."

My ears perked up when I heard a simple monologue coming from behind the curtain.

"My mother is His Majesty's nanny, so His Majesty and I are milk siblings."

Only now did I understand why Claude seemed so generous to Felix. Still, it seemed like Claude valued Felix as the son of his nanny. No?! By the way, what was that? Claude, are you also a human being who has patience and kindness towards others? So give me that little bit of patience and kindness!

"When I was little, I hated my mother a little. Because she spent more time with His Majesty rather than with me."

Oh my, his mother was snatched by Claude when he was little. If that's the case, it's only natural that Claude be nice to Felix.

"Then, not long after, my mother died,"

By the way, Claude as a child, I can't imagine it. For some reason, it seems like he was born with an *iron core in his mouth……

T/N: *Most likely this is a proverb. But, sorry, I don't understand and also don't find out what these words mean.

"I used to tell people that I didn't miss my mother at all. And in fact, for about 3 years, I never thought I would want to see my mother. Because she was someone I spent very little time with, so I never felt her presence. And I don't think that's anything important."

I don't understand why Felix suddenly started talking about his mother. Even so, for the sake of politeness, I continued to listen to what Felix said silently and without interrupting.

"Then, one day, by chance, I saw an embroidery on the handkerchief I usually carried. It was an embroidery with my name that my mother had embroidered when she was still alive."

Felix spoke calmly, but it probably took him a lot of effort to say all that.

"It made me cry."

I felt a little embarrassed when I heard that so I pulled Claude's hair which turned out to be softer than I expected. I don't know if I can listen to Felix and Claude's personal stories like this. Felix said it to me himself, so I won't say anything………… Claude wouldn't hurt me if he knew I heard about his childhood.

"She is the mother I hate. The mother, who was never present in my childhood. But actually, I miss her."

Actually, Felix's words didn't touch my heart deeply.

"Even though we don't have any memories together, she is my only mother."

I'm a bit sorry to say this after hearing Felix's secret, but I don't even have a family to hate like that. Of course, when I was very young, I wished I had a Mum and a Dad. But… As I got older, I forgot that feeling. And after that, I wasn't angry or hated them for leaving me. That's because hatred and longing can only be felt when you have some kind of hope left.

If I were the real Athanasia, what would I feel if I were Princess Athanasia, who since birth, lived in the Ruby Palace without knowing what her mother looked like? Then, for the first time, she met her father, Claude.

"Hey, this is a secret."

I whispered as if I was going to tell a secret only to Felix alone.

"Actually, Athi lied when Athi said that Athi didn't want to see Mother."

"Is that true?"

Felix answered me softly as if he already knew everything.

"But, Athi wasn't lying when Athi said that Athi didn't need to see Mother."

Hmmm. I don't know, but I think Athanasia in the novel would say this.

"Because Athi has Papa."

I guess this is a reasonable thing for a child at this age to say.

"Even if Mother isn't there, Athi can sleep with Papa. So Athi won't be sad."

Hey, Claude is a naughty kid who only loves Zenith, he killed Athanasia, someone who loved him like a sunflower.

"And in the Ruby Palace, there is Lily, there is Felix, there are the other maid eonnis, and there are also chocolates!"

And no Claude! What a comfortable environment. OK! Even now, I want to return to the Ruby Palace. Claude, this guy is also sleeping, can't I just go? Come on, Felix. Come on, carry me!

"Does Princess Athanasia have any wishes?"

"Wishes?"

"I mean, like something you would want."

Are you kidding? Of course, I have it!

"Eighteen…………"

What else besides wanting Claude not to kill me when I was 18 years old? But, to make that wish come true, I must not die before my 18th birthday. Huhuhuuu.

"Yes?"

Luckily, Felix didn't seem to hear me. I changed my wishes and adapted them to the wishes of a 5-year-old child.

"Athi hope, Papa will love Athi even more!"

So much so that he won't kill me! To the point where even after I turned 10 or 18, he wouldn't have the heart to kill me!

"As much as Athi loves Papa! Very, very much!"

I have no affection for him, but at least I don't want him to kill me. So please put some common sense into it and cut me some slack. At least, I want you not to kill me because I am your daughter. Finally, Felix chuckled at my bitter wish that he couldn't hear. Sob.

"That wish will definitely come true."

I also hope that will come true. Even in my sleep, my words entered my subconscious. Claude, please let me live. God, please grant that wish. Thinking so, I pulled Claude's hair again, who was still sleeping soundly. When his blonde hair distorted in my hands, I felt a little relieved and finally, I laughed a little.

Strangely, after that I was sleepy, I sat down like a sick chicken next to Claude. I think it's because I almost stayed up all night. After all, I felt uncomfortable with Lily and Felix yesterday. In addition, because Claude's eyes were closed, the tension was reduced, and without realizing it, my eyelids drooped even more.

Since then, Felix has remained silent. Plus, isn't this the perfect time to take a nap? So, I tried to lie down between these soft pillows.

Then, I dreamed about a woman. The first thing that touched my five senses was the sound of the song which was as clear as morning dew rolling on a silver plate. Just hearing that singing made me feel better, and I wondered who was singing with that beautiful voice.

My question didn't last long. As soon as my vision became clear, I saw a woman appearing among the fresh light green leaves. The sparkling blonde hair that was like shards of sunlight made my eyes go dizzy. At first, all I could see was her back, she was walking barefoot on the green grass as if she was dancing. Her movements were like those of a butterfly, and it seemed like she could fly away at any time. Without realizing it, I stretched out my hand but before my hand could reach it, she was already looking at me.

Oh, she smiled. Her purple eyes curled up with a very alluring smile, she felt like a girl who had not been tainted and she looked very innocent. She was such a beautiful woman, that it took my breath away when I saw her. Wow, very beautiful! Eonni, you are so beautiful! Totally my type! It was my first time seeing such a beautiful person, so I was excited. She is truly a Goddess. Eonni, you are my destiny…… Her smile that poured on me was so warm and full of love, I felt so happy just looking at it. However, for some reason, a corner of my heart was suffocated with pain.

"I think the Princess is having a sweet dream."

In my sleep, I heard a familiar voice that seemed to be trying to call me to the real world, but I didn't want to wake up yet.

"Maybe because she had sung the nightmare banishment song."

"Yes. The fairy who had listened to the Princess's voice some time ago must have given her a sweet dream."

"Recently, every time you open your mouth, you always say nonsense."

"Haha."

Noisy. I mean, I still want to sleep.

"Ugh……"

The conversation between the two stopped when a moaning sound came out of my mouth. Can I sleep a little longer? That's when I felt a warmth like feathers on the tip of my head. It stroked my head several times with such a weak force, that even I could barely feel its touch.

"This sucks. Go to sleep."

The dream I was having right now was so beautiful and happy, so I ignored the voices and fell back into a deep sleep. If possible, this is such a sweet nap that I don't want to wake up and stay like this forever.

***

"Felix, give me chocolate."

"That's impossible, Princess."

"Only one."

"I'm going to be in trouble."

"Haaa."

I cried because of that barbaric rejection. Even so, I think he will feel worried! But apparently, the Evil Felix silently closed his eyes to my desperate gaze. Wow, I didn't expect it to turn out like this, he is really a cool oppa. Sob.

"I'm sorry, Princess."

Even so, Felix looked embarrassed and looked at me with a sad expression as if I looked pathetic. So what will you do? You can't even give me chocolate. Bruh!

"Athi couldn't sleep because I really wanted to eat chocolate."

Of course, I can't just give up! As I muttered gloomily, I saw Felix's shoulders twitch slightly. Good! It works.

"Can't I just eat one?"

I show off my cuteness by acting cute to my chocolate donors. Then, I wonder if his pupils are shaking. Since some time ago, Felix had been my snack provider replacing Hannah and Seth, but this time, Lilian asked him not to give me snacks, so Felix's chocolate donation was cut off. Yes, yes, I understand your predicament, but come on, come on, come on.

“I really can't do it…………”

"Promise. I'll only eat one."

“If Miss Lilian finds out, I will be scolded……”

"I won't tell Lily. No one will know if we both don't tell!"

I persuaded Felix excitedly. Come on, look at me. Don't you feel sorry for me? I'm hungry for chocolate. Seriously, I'm really just going to eat one. No, of course from one it can become two, and from two it can become three.

"Even so……"

"If Athi doesn't eat chocolate, Athi will become depressed for days... Athi will see a dark world and keep crying..."

When I said that and took a deep breath, I could see Felix slowly approaching. I tried my best to make him feel sorry for me.

"But if Athi eats chocolate, everything will be better."

Come here quickly! I looked at Felix with tears in my eyes. Ugh, the only thing that improved when dealing with Claude these past 2 years was this pathetic appearance. Still, it was worth living a miserable life in its own way. Finally, Felix raised both hands to me (surrendered).

"Really just one."

"Felix is the best in the world!"

I jumped up and down on the spot while praising Felix happily. Then, he smiled at me as if he had no other choice. Now, give me the chocolate! I love chocolate! Give me chocolate! The chocolate that Felix gave me shone brilliantly like a beautiful person. I finally hid it in my bedroom cupboard. But I couldn't control my emotional encounter with my chocolate.

"I knew it."

"Ugh…"

Lily who appeared without a word immediately confiscated my chocolate.

"Sir Robane, I told you to look after the Princess while I was away."

"Haha. I'm sorry."

Without realizing it, Felix, who was living in Lily's grip, started laughing and pretended not to know. Geez, this oppa, he was useless when facing Claude and now he was weak when facing Lily. You are a coward! Even you are worse than me!

"Princess, if you eat a lot of chocolate, your teeth will hurt again. You know that, right?"

"Ughhh."

I had no choice but to cry again because of Lily's firm way of speaking and expressions.

It's all the chocolate thief's fault! Lily became wary of me because the chocolate in the chocolate basket on the snack shelf in the kitchen had run out. Besides, there were times when I went to the kitchen to steal chocolates, I noticed that there were fewer chocolates in the basket than usual, so I could only come out empty-handed. Apart from that, during this time I heard rustling sounds in the kitchen about 3 or 4 times, and every time it happened, I was reminded of the ghost story in the Ruby Palace. Oh no! Of course, I'm not saying that I'm afraid of ghosts! There can't be a real ghost. Yes, that's impossible.

By the way, it's been almost 2 years since that chocolate thief stole my chocolates in the kitchen, so I'm really sick of it. I tried to find out who the maid eonni was who did that, but I still couldn't find her. Instead, Felix, who once took chocolate ice cream in the kitchen, said that he had never heard a rustling sound in the kitchen, which made my heart sink even more. Is my energy weak so the evil spirits keep sticking to me!? Whoaaaa.

"Princess, all of this is for your own good. You don't want to get sick again, right?"

Actually, last year I suffered from cavities, that's why Lily forbade me from eating chocolate. But I want to eat it, chocolateeeee. Oh my gosh, Lily failed and Felix failed too. And I can't hope for the maid eonnis at the Ruby Palace because they don't fall for my cuteness at all. I miss Hannah and Seth, I haven't seen them in almost 2 years. Sob. Da#n, I finally decided to use my last resort.

"I want to see Daddy."

I'm already 7 years old. I've changed my nickname for Claude 3 times over the past year. In fact, I had to kick the covers off every night because of the cursed 'Papa' call I gave him the first day I met Claude. Moreover, not everyone can pretend to be a child. Hehe.

"Princess……"

"Why? Athi really wants to meet Daddy."

However, I was very happy because I could finally get out of the shackles of calling Claude 'Papa'! Finally, Athi is free! Athi is free! But, as if knowing what I meant, Lily looked at me with narrowed eyes. I followed Felix who was next to me and pretended not to know anything and looked the other way.

I've felt this for a long time. Isn't this like a scene that usually occurs in small families? Like a father and daughter who don't act maturely and a mother who scolds both of them.

"Carry Athi. I want to meet Daddy!"

Ugh, let's go! I pulled Felix's shirt slit down. Then, Felix, who had become more sensitive, quickly carried me without the slightest delay.

"I can't do anything because the Princess asked for it. I will go back."

"But, shouldn't we contact him first before leaving?"

"His Majesty is always happy every time the Princess comes to visit."

Oh, yes, Lily, she was still worried. No need to worry, Lily. Claude wouldn't kill me just because of something like this.

"Then go."

"Yes. We'll be back."

"Lily, Bye!"

Ugh. Let's quickly get away from this embarrassing situation like the newlyweds and their children. I grabbed Felix's arm and urged him to leave the Ruby Palace in a hurry.

"You're here."

Perhaps thanks to my tearful efforts, as soon as I entered the Garnet Palace, Claude acted as if he was welcoming us. Did you hear that? Not 'Why are you here?' but 'You're here'. Of course, it sounded like 'Again' but still, he welcomed my arrival. It's a good thing that I've been meeting Claude all this time, being sweet, and acting cute. Tears welled up in my eyes when I thought about those 2 years of torture.

"Ah, Daddy!"

I got off Felix's arm and ran towards Claude with a big smile. Then, Claude smiled caringly and opened his arms to hug me.

"Now you come and go to my Palace as you please."

……Of course, that can't happen between us, unless the sky is split into two. Claude was lying down, half leaning on the sofa without lifting his body and waving his hands as if he was too lazy to chase me away. The reason was, that he waved his hand at me because he felt that my arrival was annoying. But, if I had been discouraged just because of that, then I wouldn't have come here in the first place!

"Daddy, Athi is here!"

I approached Claude and placed my hands on his lap, smiling broadly.

"I came because I suddenly missed you, Dad. My longing is this big!"

Maybe because this is something I'm used to doing, now I don't mind this. Besides, today I tried hard to act cute in front of Claude because there was something I expected from him.

"It's already noisy this early in the morning."

Claude still never said a friendly word, but he never pushed me away whenever I clung to him like this. And in terms of feelings, even though I pretended not to be myself, it seemed Claude didn't hate my sudden visit as much as he did now.

"Ehehehe."

I wondered if Claude clicked his tongue when he saw me acting like a fool, but look, the danger alarm inside me still hasn't gone off, right?

"Felix."

"Yes, Your Majesty. I will give the instructions to the servants."

When Claude called his name, Felix quickly answered as if he already knew. Then, just like a dog who hears a bell, woof, woof, woof, can I finally meet my dear ones who are as beautiful as me? When the experienced maid eonnis opened the door and started to enter the room, my heart pounded as fast as if I had met my first love.

Oh, this is a very touching moment. The beautiful figures on the white plate were simply mesmerizing! Big and very artistic. If I had a tail, it would be wagging non-stop right now.

"I think you were happier when you saw the cakes than when you saw me."

Claude spoke sarcastically while I was drooling and admiring the desserts on the table. Ughh, why is this guy so clever at times like this? Can't we both pretend to be insensitive? This makes me embarrassed.

"It tastes better because I ate it together with you, Dad. Ehehe."

I grinned absurdly wide. Of course, at this time, I was already busy playing with my hands and inhaling the cakes that were in front of my eyes.

Every time I meet him, Claude still gives me sweet treats that are inappropriate for my age. Even so, when I was suffering from chocolate starvation due to Lily's ban, I would visit Claude as a last resort and get a treat like now. In the past, I couldn't just come to see Claude, but those scary years have passed.

"Amazing, your cheeks haven't exploded yet."

Claude always looks at me and gives me dessert like this every time I come. It must be that the way I eat happily is so cute that he keeps wanting to feed me…… That must be what he's thinking. Well, whatever it is, it doesn't matter right now. Yum, yum, yum.

I made up for my lack of sugar by aggressively eating chocolate cake. Seeing that my weight doesn't increase even though I eat a lot of sweets, it seems that Athanasia was born with truly blessed genes. As usual, Claude placed the steaming cup of tea in front of him and watched me closely as I ate. At first, I felt embarrassed, but because it wasn't the first or second time he looked at me like that while I was eating, I wasn't afraid anymore. Is it because I'm used to it? Yum, yum. By the way, do you have something you want to tell me? Why are you looking at me like that?

"Did you meet anyone on your way here?"

Sure enough, there was something he wanted to talk to me about. Claude, who had hesitated for a moment, slightly lowered his body and asked me.

"Yum, yum. Meet? Who?"

Of course, I answered with a mouth full of food. Who exactly could I meet here —in a deserted palace where there wasn't a single mouse?

"I hope you don't meet anyone. Even if you do, you just ignore him."

No, who the hell are you talking about? But Claude just raised his teacup again with a slightly annoyed expression on his face, rarely did he think of something that made him feel upset. I munched on the cake and tilted my head at him. And I immediately knew who Claude was talking about.

***

"Ah! Albie!"

"Hello, Duke Alphaeus."

“How are you, Princess…………”

I smiled at Duke Alphaeus who was wearing a confused face. I was very tired today, so I left the Garnet Palace earlier than usual because Claude told me to leave shortly after we had spent a short rest. But in the end, it led me to meet Roger Alphaeus, who was apparently on his way to meet Claude.

"How are you, Albie?"

“Oh my, Princess. My name is Roger Alphaeus……”

"Albie, hand,"

Roger Alphaeus sighed as if he had given up on correcting my call towards him. Before I knew it, I was already 7 years old and for the last 2 years, I often met Duke Alphaeus, and whenever we met, I always made fun of him by calling him the 'Albie' and teasing him. Then finally, Duke Alphaeus started avoiding me a lot.

But, am I not a Princess? If I didn't meet him because he wanted to avoid me, then I wouldn't care. But, if we had met like this, then Roger Alphaeus, who claimed to be loyal to Claude, of course, couldn't just ignore me, so he stretched out his hand. Felix also couldn't do anything and just stood still while carrying me. Maybe you think that I will feed you snacks like someone who feeds animals, but no!

"Albie, good boy! Very good."

Well, today is different than before! I grabbed the hand that was extended to me from below, then stretched out my other hand to quickly stroke Duke Alphaeus' head.

"Pppffttttt."

Felix, who was carrying me, was busy holding back his laughter. Roger Alphaeus put on a confused expression again, then took a few steps away from me and furrowed his eyebrows. Ah, now he's trying to escape. Every time Duke Alphaeus was attacked like this, he immediately kept his distance very nimbly, so I couldn't attack him repeatedly.

"Ahem."

But, today, somehow, Roger Alphaeus didn't say goodbye to me right away. Instead of leaving, he let out a small breath and said something,

"Princess Athanasia."

Uwaa, what does this Albie want to do anyway? I don't know what it is, but it seems like you want to tell me something. I'm a little interested because this pattern is different from usual. And his next words made me even more interested.

"Aren't you lonely because there's no one around you to be friends with?"

What's wrong with this uncle, from the outside he looks like a tiger but inside he's a squirrel. Why is he suddenly asking this? Come to think of it, just now Claude told me to ignore anyone I meet, and it must have been this Duke Alphaeus. Ugh, what, what, what has this Albie said to Claude for Claude to say that to me? I want to know.

"Friend?"

It seems like my courage has been getting bigger lately. If this were half a year ago, I would definitely just pass by this Albie like Claude told me to. But, since it's like this, I can't pretend anymore.

"I'm sorry, Duke Alphaeus. Princess……"

"Sir Robane, the Princess is speaking. Do not interrupt without permission."

Felix tried to follow Claude's words and tried to get away from Duke Alphaeus, but in the end, Felix could only close his mouth with a serious face. Even though Felix's family, the Robane Family, is one of the 2 Duke Families in Obelia, Felix's power remains under a Duke, Roger Alphaeus. Is this because Duke Alphaeus is the father of the male protagonist and the main supporter of the heroine, Zenith? But, I don't know what this guy was thinking when he brought up friends to me.

"You stupid Albie. Athi has friends."

Um, no matter what, I don't want to react the way this guy wants me to.

"Isn't Felix Athi's friend?"

"Princess."

I could feel that Felix was looking at me with eager eyes, and I knew that this was going to be an orgy of snack eating, making fun of Albie, and increasing Felix's liking for me.

"Princess, wouldn't it be better if you were in a relationship with someone your own age?"

Wow! Geez, I wanted to be on guard but I think now I know what this Albie is thinking. I wondered if my guess was wrong because I could see the unease in his eyes when he looked at me.

"Actually, I have a child the same age as you, Princess."

Apparently, Roger Alphaeus wanted to introduce me to Izekiel, the male protagonist of <Lovely Princess>. That's right, isn't it?

"He is a very smart and mature child like me. He is 3 years older than you, Princess. So if you treat him like an older brother, he will also love you like a younger sister."

I restrained myself from laughing out loud. Oh, look how cunning this man is! From all angles, it's clear he wants to use me as insurance for him, right? Because I have a good relationship with Claude, so he wants me to be by his side too, not just Zenith. He wants to use me as a spare key. If, by any chance, Claude reacted negatively to Zenith, he could still use me, that must have been his intention. That's right, isn't it? Therefore, he planned to tie his son to me first, whether it be a sibling bond or a bond between the opposite sex.

So, as long as Izekiel and I don't hate each other, then it will benefit this uncle. It's good business and doesn't hurt.

"Emm…… And I'm a bit embarrassed to say this, but my son is very handsome because he looks like me."

But Sir, do you really want to try to win me over this way in front of Claude? Claude will be annoyed if you try to persuade his daughter to be friends with your son, especially if you say that your son is similar to you and that he is handsome and has a good personality. Albie, even if your strategy isn't completely wrong, it still won't work! It would be best for you to replace Claude to take care of state affairs for 1 month. Success for this will be more likely.

"Ugh, if he looks like you, the Albie, then Athi doesn't want it."

No matter how hard Izekiel had the male protagonist buff, a 10-year-old boy was still a 10-year-old boy. And if I was attracted to young Izekiel like that…… That would be immoral. Besides, what should I do about that boy? Do you want me to play together with him? But, I have to learn Arlanta Language. Recently my number of lessons has increased, so I only have a short amount of playing time.

Duke Alphaeus' eyes twitched as I showed a disgusted expression that seemed to say, 'I hate seeing people who look like you'. It seemed he was offended by my words. But, I found it funny that he was offended by a 7-year-old's words. Then, Roger Alphaeus immediately continued the conversation as if he didn't feel anything.

"In that case……"

As I stared at Duke Alphaeus indifferently, I secretly raised my eyebrows at the words he said after.

"How about a girl the same age as you, Princess?"

Hah? Is he crazy? I can't believe it.

"Ah, do you mean your nephew, Duke Alphaeus?"

"Yes, I took care of my cousin's sister's youngest daughter who went to Florea for healing because she was seriously ill."

Of course, he couldn't openly raise Zenith as the Emperor's Daughter, so it was natural for him to use such an excuse.

Felix pretended to know as if he had heard rumors about the little girl being looked after by Duke Alphaeus. It seemed like he was curious about a girl my age, just like he had assured Claude that it would be good if I had a friend my age.

"What do you think, Princess?"

Duke Alphaeus makes me a little angry now.

Who cares, you crazy person! Just now he wanted to use Izekiel, and now he wants to put Zenith by my side? Haa, he acts like he doesn't know anything, but he looks like he's forcing it. The reason Athanasia died was to create a flower path for the protagonist, Zenith. And now, he wants me to be friends with Zenith? Then, what will happen if I become friends with her? Should I ask Claude to 'look' into Zenith's eyes?

Of course, I know that Zenith is innocent. But because I was Athanasia, I thought 'If it weren't for Zenith, Athanasia wouldn't have died'. That's why I feel somewhat uncomfortable with Zenith's existence, and every time I think about Zenith's Aunt or Duke Alphaeus trying to use Zenith for their own purposes, I feel like slapping them one by one.

However, all that is what they do in the novel, and this Duke Alphaeus I met in real life doesn't seem to be as evil as I thought, and so far we have a good relationship. But, when I saw him trying to approach me this way, I felt like there was blood flowing down my forehead. Oh my gosh, I shouldn't have stroked your hair, I should have just pulled it out!

“Princess, if you wish to have a friend, I will try to convince His Majesty together with Duke Alphaeus.”

Felix, who didn't know anything, asked me what I thought with his innocent eyes. Roger Alphaeus put on a confident face as if I wouldn't refuse his offer this time. There were no children my age in the palace, and it was clear on his face that children my age usually want to have friends, he must have believed that I would act according to what he thought.

Besides, there happened to be 1 boy and 1 girl in the Alphaeus Family, so he thought it would definitely be great for me to have both boy and girl friends at the same time. When I thought about Roger Alphaeus who might be making new future plans, my facial expression started to get worse.

I guess I should fix that. I think Claude is the most annoying person in the world, but I'll stop thinking like that. From now on, the annoying person ranked first will be the white dog in front of me!

I put on an innocent face, hiding my annoyance at Duke Alphaeus. Then, as if thinking about something, I tilted my head.

"Um, but Athi doesn't like friends who are stupider than Athi."

Was it because my reaction was unexpected? Maybe they didn't expect me to say something like that, but it was clear that Felix and Duke Alphaeus were surprised by my words.

"P-Princess."

Ugh, I guess I'm unlucky now. But it doesn't matter! As long as I can give him big, beautiful candy!

"Um, they are smart kids. So you don't need to worry about that, Princess."

Ah, really? I snorted when I heard Roger Alphaeus' confident words. Of course, you are sure of that because you educated Zenith early for the future. If so, how about this? As if waiting for an answer from this Albie, I asked innocently.

"If Albie says that, does that mean they can speak Arlanta Language? [Albie, you stupid dog, sea anemone.]"

T/N: The words in brackets are curses that Athi said in her heart.

Roger Alphaeus' eyes widened when he heard the quite fluent Arlanta Language come out of my mouth.

"Or how about Pascal's Official Language? [Stupid white dog, stick out your tongue.]"

"……"

"Saikansia is an easy language, so they must have mastered it, right? 'May God punish those who cheat with a thousand punishments'."

Roger Alphaeus bit his lip like a mute when I recited a verse from the Bible in the Holy Imperial Language, Saikansia. But it's still not over, right?

"How many sociological theories have they studied? If they are smart kids, they must have finished intermediate level classes, right? Ugh, Athi is stuck on Max Berlinger's functionalism theory because it's a little difficult. They must have studied Bill Roitz's theory, right? What about everything else? Magic? How about philosophy? History?"

"……"

"Eh…… But since Albie said they were smart kids, maybe they don't want to be friends with Athi who is still not fluent in Arlanta Language…… Can you ask them to be friends with Athi after Athi masters it?"

I asked Duke Alphaeus with a sullen face, as if I would be rejected by him. After that, things became as quiet as a dead mouse. Oh, how fun. I studied hard from the teachers Claude sent for today. I kept doing my homework and listening to class well in order to be liked by Claude, I didn't expect that it would be useful at times like this. Yes, I have a slightly evil personality. I admit that. But it was this Albie who bothered me first! Oh my, this is my home and just now, he wants to place Zenith by my side!?

Eh, but wait a minute………… If Albie's scheme succeeds and Zenith meets Claude sooner than in the original story, wouldn't that mean I would be in danger of dying earlier than in the original story? When I thought about that, I got goosebumps until the hairs on my neck stood up. Wow, crazy. Crazy. This isn't just a trivial matter, Duke Alphaeus who has been hiding Zenith's identity is trying to stick Zenith on me!!?

“……I have heard that Princess Athanasia is very smart.”

At that moment, Roger Alphaeus broke the silence by opening his mouth.

"It seems like the rumors are true."

Roger Alphaeus regained his composure and laughed out loud as if he was admiring me. But in the midst of all that, he looked at me with a sharp gaze.

"My niece was also interested in knowledge from an early age, but it seems she won't be able to keep up with your level, Princess."

Of course. Even if she was the protagonist, she was still a 7 year old child, an age where she was still playing around. I know that I cheated on kids my age. Ugh, this is a very embarrassing thing, and the dark history is accumulating again, I will definitely kick my blanket again tonight. Even so, I didn't feel bad about defeating this Albie, so I had to cheer myself up. Since we've come this far, let's just continue. Haha.

"Then what about my son? He seems to be able to talk to you a little better."

What? You mean, a 10 year old child is already at my level? Isn't that just nonsense? Is this how Roger Alphaeus felt when I spoke? But strangely, when he said that the 10 year old was on the same level as me, it seemed my pride was hurt.

"I would have thought about it if he didn't look like you, Albie."

Roger Alphaeus nodded at my words while frowning.

"Athi wants to go now."

I left him and pressed Felix's arm with my fingers to quickly return to the Ruby Palace. So Duke Alphaeus could only remain silent because the scheme he wanted didn't work.

While I was in Felix's arms, I looked back and saw Roger Alphaeus walking towards the Garnet Palace, where Claude was. Since he had already failed to persuade me, it seemed like he wanted to persuade Claude again. If you have been rejected many times, then Claude will not fall into the trap. Unfortunately, there is no salt here. It's a bad day, so I guess I should sprinkle some salt. Is it true that Izekiel is studying at the same level as me? I felt bad for some reason, so I frowned again. And it was at that moment, for some reason, Felix looked gloomy since a while ago, and then he spoke to me as if he was making a promise.

"Princess, I will work hard so that you won't be embarrassed."

Hah? What? Of course, I wondered, but it seemed Felix had already made his decision.

***

"Come on, get up from your seat."

Today I'm very busy.

"Now sit down."

Sit down! Get up! Wait! It's the same as when you train a dog.

"This time, come to where I am standing."

Basic manners, literally all these are etiquettes. I will review basic manners for 30 minutes each day and then move on to other things that will be learned that day.

"Perhaps because you have learned etiquette from an early age, your basic manners are very good, Princess."

It felt like praising myself, but it was actually a compliment from the teacher to me. In short, this teacher taught me the basics of etiquette well over the past 2 years, so my etiquette is already very good compared to children my age. Other lessons are fun, but etiquette has no dreams, hopes, fun, or excitement. Luckily, however, time passed quickly and this etiquette and writing lesson went by quickly. After I enjoyed a delicious lunch, it was already afternoon.

"May Obelia's prosperity be with you. How were you last night, Princess?"

This time it was the Arlanta Language Class. After briefly testing the words given as memorization homework, the class continues with reading and speaking. At the end of class, the homework for today is to arrange the words learned today into short sentences. However, I guess this teacher didn't expect too much from a kid like me, he was the one who made up the sentences and I just followed suit.

And after about 2 hours, the Arlanta Language Class finally finished, and I immediately started studying history. The person who taught me the language and history of Arlanta was a famous scholar from Obelia, an old man. I was hoping for a handsome oppa, but what a shame. What's done is done. For your information, I also study sociology from him every 2 days.

"That's all for today."

Wow! Finally, all classes for today are finished! I screamed with joy in my heart.

"Hehe. Princess, every time you learn 1 thing, you will know 10 things. As a teacher, I am very proud of you."

Yes, yes, I'm smart. So finish your praise and leave quickly.

"Then, see you tomorrow."

"See you!"

I waved at the white-haired man who was leaving the Ruby Palace. Countess Eloise who taught me in the morning, would be surprised if she saw it. That's a way of greeting, but this grandfather would rather I treat him casually like his own granddaughter. True to his words, I absorbed everything I learned, just like a sponge. That's because it's nice to be able to gain knowledge at will. After all, this is a study that I couldn't do in my previous life. Of course, there were times when I felt sick because I didn't want to study too much. And that day is today.

"Felix, Felix, what are you doing?"

As soon as class was over, I ran towards Felix. Lately, I feel bored because there are no other activities besides studying with the teachers every day. Since meeting Duke Alphaeus in front of the Garnet Palace, Claude never looked for me. Felix told me that Claude said, 'Don't leave the Ruby Palace for a while because there is a dog that doesn't understand a language'. Hearing that, I couldn't help but click my tongue. The Albie was very brave. If Claude lost his temper, even Uncle Albie wouldn't be able to return home safely. Hey, compared to before, Claude has become calmer, he has really softened compared to 2 years ago, at that time, he was no different from a walking time bomb. Of course, his gentle standards were different from those of ordinary people.

"Eh? What is this? What is it, what is this?"

Anyhow, I went to Felix who was the only person besides Lily who was close to me in the Ruby Palace. Felix who was sitting on a chair, in one corner of the room was looking at something with a rare serious expression on his face. How focused he was, he didn't even notice that I was taking a step towards him. I held Felix's leg and peeked shamelessly.

"Ah, Princess. Are your classes finished?"

Then Felix turned his gaze towards me.

"Felix, what are you doing?"

I asked Felix to stop what he was doing and asked him to play with me. But, Felix suddenly smiled proudly as if he had been waiting for my question.

"I'm studying the theory of Max Berlinger."

"Uh, Max Berlinger?"

"Yes, if I were your friend then I should know things like this in my head."

What? What do you say? I was surprised by Felix's sudden enthusiasm for learning. Maybe it was a late wish? No wonder, since a few days ago, from what I can see, whenever he has free time, Felix always reads a book...... The title of the book that Felix is reading is 'Sociological Theory'. Wasn't that the theory I told Albie?

"Play with me once you're done with this."

However, Felix, who would usually immediately get up from his seat, now gave me an apologetic look.

"Sorry, Princess. I haven't finished the lessons I have to do today, so I can't play with you right now."

"Will it take a long time?"

"After reading this, I have to memorize 50 basic words from the Arlanta Language."

This uncomfortable feeling is getting stronger. Why did this oppa suddenly become like this?

"Ha-Hah? Why are you suddenly doing all this?"

When I asked him because I felt strange, Felix shyly said while scratching the back of his nose.

"Actually, that day I felt moved."

"Hah?"

"I didn't know you thought of me as a friend."

Cold sweat started to seep out of my back. No, ah, I indeed said that in front of Albie………… But that doesn't mean anything. Bruh! I kind of regret saying that.

"So, from that day on, I made up my mind. I will never be an embarrassing friend to you."

When I saw Felix talking with a stern face, I became very embarrassed. Wait! Wait. What does all this have to do with studying? The moment I thought about it by narrowing my eyebrows and contemplating, a memory flashed through my head.

"Princess, don't you dislike friends who are stupider than you?"

Uwaaaaa. I opened my mouth wide as the words echoed in my ears.

"Therefore, Princess. I will do my best."

Cold sweat broke out behind my back as I looked at the sparkling innocent eyes in front of me. What, what the hell? Could that be why you study? Because of me? Geez, just because I don't like friends who are stupider than me? I only said that to defeat Albie!

"That's not it…… Even if you don't do it, Felix is still Athi's friend. Right?"

"No. If I were your friend, then of course I would have to get used to this level."

"Ah, you don't need to be like that."

"I, Felix Robane will be reborn."

Even though I tried to persuade him several times, Felix remained firm. He clenched his fists and once again ignited his passion for learning. So in the end, I chose to leave the room without saying goodbye to him. For some reason, I felt like I had tricked that naive oppa again, but it seemed like he was treating that moment seriously. When I saw Felix's innocent eyes, a deep sense of guilt rose in my heart. But, I didn't mean that!

I went to the somewhat quiet backyard of the palace and put both hands on my face. Oh my, Felix, what should I do about that oppa? This is all my fault for saying stupid words without thinking, but hey, I'm stupid. I'm stupid. Huhuhuuu.

Srek, Srek.

At that moment, I heard a rustling sound in the bushes near me. Hearing that voice, I removed both my hands from my face which was filled with regret. Hah? What's that? And what I saw was a mass of black fur appearing among the green bushes. I wonder what it is. What is this creature in front of me? What is a trash lump? But, isn't it moving?

Srekkk.

Whoops. Once again the mass of black fur shook. I felt a strong sense of curiosity and moved closer to it. Then I opened the bushes that covered the lump of black fur.

"Heeee, how cute."

Its round yellow eyes looked at me. Huh, what is this? Are you a fairy from a fairy tale? What is this cute creature? It is neither a cat nor a dog with thick black fur. I don't know what it is, but it's so cute!

"I'll feed you, come here."

Is there an animal like this living in the Ruby Palace? I stretched out my hand towards the little animal, it tilted its head at me, looking scared but also happy. I want to touch it! I wanted it, but it just looked at me for a moment then threw itself away, going into the bushes.

"Oh, wait!"

That fur-like creature was incredibly fast! Uh, no! Let me touch you first!

I started chasing the black fur.

"*Blackie!"

T/N: *Actually, Athi calls that creature 'Kkamang' which means dark/black.

I even gave it a name. This is the first time I have felt such a strong sense of destiny since I saw the Fairy Eonni (Diana) in my dream at that time!

“Blackie, where are you?”

Uwoooooo, can you come here? I will give you delicious food and comb your fur. I searched every nook and cranny of Ruby Palace's backyard that I wouldn't normally visit. Oh, it's there! Blackie! I staggered and slipped, then I lunged at the black figure visible above the bushes with a wide smile.

"Hap!"

"Argh!"

But what came to my ears was a low groan from a man. Hah? This isn't Blackie? But, before I could express my doubts, I immediately shouted.

"Geez!"

I tilted my head. Tilting!

Srekkk!

I could feel the green leaves scratching my face and legs. Maybe because I gained weight and I just threw my body around, the result was that I got a little scratched by the leaves. Ouch, it hurts! My skin was scratched by sharp leaves and grass, so I grimaced for a moment.

"Ugh. What the hell?"

Suddenly, a low voice that seemed to be talking to itself flowed above my head. I followed the sound and moved my eyes which were already dripping with tears, and my breathing stopped in surprise.

"It hurts, stop pulling my hair."

They were very pretty red eyes, just like roses. His red eyes could be seen as something scary like something out of a horror movie, but to me, they were simply beautiful. But, what do I do to his hair……?

"Didn't you hear my order?"

"Eh?"

I'm pulling this guy's hair! Besides, I just fell into the bushes and bumped into this unknown guy. No wonder I feel like I've touched someone's body!

I gasped in surprise, withdrew my hand, and hastily backed away. Then, the man stood up and shook his wrist. It seems his hand was dislocated when I pounced on him. He also rubbed the back of his neck as if his neck was stiff and he also frowned slightly. When I looked down, I saw a few strands of black hair —probably this guy's hair, hanging from my fingers. Haha…… I don't know why I mistook this for Blackie, even though his hair was bluish-black…… Secretly, I threw his hair into the green grass without the knowledge of the person in front of me.

"You make me surprised."

By the way, who is this guy who looks like a doll?

"Who are you?"

Is he around 17 or 18 years old? He looked like a naughty high school student, but his face was beautiful enough to make my heart flutter. But that doesn't mean he's pretty like a girl… He looks like the cute little brother I knew from my part-time job in my previous life. In short, he's a pleasure to look at. Handsome.

"Oppa, who are you? Not anyone can come in here."

"I'm not just anyone."

Is he someone who works in the Imperial Palace? That's why he's here. But a man is not allowed to enter the Ruby Palace, so he shouldn't be able to enter here. Of course, Felix is different, Claude gave Felix to me, he became my temporary knight, but somehow he still served me as a temporary knight for these 2 years. But Felix's position as a knight was only in words because there was nothing else to do so he just carried me and walked me whenever I went to see Claude or he would play with me when Lily was busy.

"Judging from your eyes, it seems like you are a direct descendant. Since when did Kylum have a daughter?"

What is this oppa talking about? Of course, I was currently the only child living in the Imperial Palace, so what was the point of him making a big deal out of it? Besides, Kylum? Where have I heard that name?

"How old are you?"

"I'm 7 years old."

Wait. Why should I answer that? This man's attitude was so confident that without realizing I answered his question just like that. Come to think of it, even though he knew that I was a member of the Imperial Family, he still treated me impolitely. I got suspicious. Who is he actually?

"Oppa, who exactly are you? What are you doing here?"

Hearing my question, this man raised his left hand which had been in the grass.

"I'm holding this."

"Blackie!"

In his hand was a lump of black fur that I had been chasing so hard. Its yellow eyes that looked at me radiated light like the light of a full moon. Several times, Blackie struggled to escape from this man's hand by groaning, but then it fell silent as soon as this man's red eyes looked at it.

"Oppa, are you the one keeping it?"

"You saw it for the first time today?"

What kind of irrelevant answer is that? Of course, this is my first time seeing Blackie, didn't I ask you earlier? But instead, he spoke as if this was a very strange thing because this was the first time I had seen Blackie. What? Didn't you come to pick it up because you are the owner?

"Princess!"

Hah? I heard a voice calling me from a distance. What is Felix? I left him alone to study, he must have been surprised. Or maybe Lily asked him to look for me? What a coincidence, I felt uncomfortable being alone with this suspicious man, so I decided to call Felix.

"Fe—"

Snap!

A moment after the man in front of me snapped his fingers, something happened.

"Where did the Princess go?"

With a rustling sound, Felix, who had been approaching me, turned back to look the other way as if he didn't find anything even after our eyes met. He even looked around as if he was looking for me.

"Fe-Felix?"

Even when I called his name, he remained like that.

Snap!

This man snapped his fingers again. Felix suddenly exclaimed as if he remembered something.

"Ah! That's right. I only memorized 10 words in Arlanta Language. I have to finish it and go look for the Princess."

After that, Felix immediately left me and left the backyard.

"If it's discovered, it'll be troublesome."

I was stunned as I watched Felix's back as he walked away from the backyard.

"Obelians always annoy me every time I see them."

The guy in front of me made an annoyed expression just thinking about it, but then he turned his gaze towards me.

"That's why I tried to come and go as quietly as possible, but I ended up getting caught by you."

He stared at my face for a moment as if thinking about something. I could see the lump of black fur in his hand struggling and growling again. Then, the man seemed to do something.

"Hah?"

My heart beats in a different way than before.

"What did you just do?"

"What did I just do? Get rid of distractions. But this is strange, my senses and magic feel duller than I thought. I became much weaker than I thought."

He frowned while holding Blackie, he also spread out his free right hand as if his body couldn't move as he pleased. I shouted excitedly at him.

"Oppa, are you a mage?"

My voice is very loud. I approached him and looked at him with sparkling eyes.

"Why? This is your first time seeing a mage?"

Then he looked at me as if he saw a strange child. He must be the Imperial Mage! No wonder, there was no way anyone could freely wander around the palace! Even in Obelia, mages are quite rare, I've learned that the Imperial Palace only has less than 50 mages. Of course, Claude could use magic, but he never showed it to me, so forget about it. After thinking like that, suddenly everything about this person in front of me felt unusual.

"Can you do something else?"

Because I really like him, so the look in my eyes turned a little softer. Meanwhile, he looked at me with a face that wasn't sure whether to smile or not, then he raised his hand without saying anything.

"Like this?"

Suddenly soap bubbles came out of his hand and flew through the air with a roar.

"Wow!"

Now! From empty hands! Soap bubbles come out! I thought he would show something like a large flame burning in his hand, but it turned out to be simpler magic than I thought. But because he was blowing soap bubbles out of his hands without any tools, I got excited like a real 7-year-old. Transparent soap bubbles floated before my eyes, they shimmered colorfully in the sunlight. When the wind blows, they fly towards me. I raised my hand to catch it. Then, at my fingertips, they exploded and released a soapy scent. Oh, it smells good. But, is this just my feeling? I feel like I'm suffocating……

"Arghhh!"

At that moment, suddenly the bubbles around me disappeared as if everything had evaporated. I opened my eyes feeling as if I was dreaming. Hah? Since when did I close my eyes?

Grrrr, Grrrrrr……

Since earlier, Blackie has been growling…… I thought, just a moment ago he was groaning in fear but now he let out a growl like a wild beast baring its teeth, its growls echoing in my ears.

"Huh, what?"

I moved my eyes following the sound, and I was shocked.

"You dare obstruct me with such petty tricks?"

The man spoke to himself as if he was surprised by the Blackie he held in his arms. The man's eyes became extremely cold.

"Should I kill this animal?"

Then, Blackie who received the cold gaze trembled in fear and groaned again. I don't know what it was, but it was clear that this guy was bothering Blackie.

“Don't bully Blackie!”

I won't let you bully Blackie! The person who bullied my little animal was a bad person! A bast#rd! Rubbish! Trash that doesn't even burn! Non-recyclable trash!

"You're not Blackie's owner, are you?"

This time I asked confidently. His face turned pale.

"You're the owner."

From now on he just said things that I didn't understand. If I were the owner, why would I ask 'You're not Blackie's owner, are you?' to him.

"This is your first time seeing a mage and sinsu. Where do you actually live? In a primitive village?"

This man actually treated me like someone who didn't know anything. No, it's a little annoying. He frowned for a moment as if he felt something was strange, and then he asked me in a suspicious tone.

"Are you Kylum's daughter?"

"That's not my Father!"

I wanted to tell you earlier! Why do you guess other people's genealogies as you please?

"Really? I see, huh. It seems I slept longer than I thought. Then, his son's name is…………"

He ran a hand through his hair as if he was frustrated that his head wasn't working properly, and finally, he made an expression that looked like he had already found the answer he wanted.

"Ah, yes. Aeternitas. So you're his daughter? But Kylum is smart enough not to listen to fools, but somehow with his son and grandson."

This time, a name I recognized came out. Aeternitas —like the other Emperor Obelia, the name means 'Eternity'. He was the Emperor who had reigned 4 generations before Claude.

"What are you talking about!? My Father's name is Claude!"

Do you live in the white house on the hill or in the village? He mentioned the name of the former Emperor from 4 generations ago as if he were talking about his neighbor's son. Ah! Come to think of it, I know who Kylum is. That was the name of the Emperor before Aeternitas, he died so quickly that his name was barely recorded in the history books.

"Claude?"

"Yes!"

"Is that the current Emperor's name?"

"Yes!"

Ugh, is the person in front of me right now a crazy person who doesn't know anyone? I answered his questions with annoyance as if I couldn't believe he didn't know the name of the current Emperor. Then, I covered my mouth in surprise. Ah, I think I should go now, I suddenly remembered an urgent matter......

"Ahahahaha!"

But suddenly there was a burst of laughter that filled my ears. I inadvertently moved my eyes, following the sound. After hearing my words, this crazy person who previously didn't say anything now burst out laughing.

"Haha. What is that? I've never seen anything like this. Is there a dynastic revolution?"

His smile was so wide that I was a little surprised because at first I saw him as a teenager but now after seeing him laugh, he was like a child. However, when he looked at Blackie earlier, he seemed more mature than he appeared. I can't guess how old this guy actually is.

"Eh?"

He laughed for a long time, then when he stopped laughing, he started looking at my face.

On his face, there was still a hint of laughter remaining, but then a look of suspicion appeared on his face.

"Wait,"

He reached out his hand and touched my face. What's wrong with him? Is this your first time seeing a girl's face?!

"Hah?"

Meanwhile, Blackie who was in his arms regained his freedom and sat down on the grass. But, instead of running away, Blackie hid behind my body. Wow, this is good. If only it weren't for this man in front of me,

"What's this?"

He grabbed my face and looked at me, now his red eyes were right in front of me, it seemed like he was looking deep into me. When I looked into his eyes, I couldn't move my body, it felt like my soul was trapped so I couldn't extricate myself from him.

"You're amazing. I've never seen anything like this before."

His red eyes shone like glass beads. I was amazed when I saw the sparkling red light, just like blooming flowers.

"For a while, I felt bored. But maybe this will be fun."

One minute ago, no matter what he said or did, he looked like a doll imitating human emotions………… But now, when he spoke, he looked like a real person.

"Hm, what should I do?"

However, the words spoken next, made me wake up.

"Then I'll just let you live."

Excuse me………? Are you talking about me right now? This is my life, not your life. What is really happening to this world? I can't keep sucking up to Claude and everyone to survive! That thought crept into my head before the fear that I might die at this person's hands. Maybe because his eyes looking at me seemed so clear that I didn't think that he would actually kill me. By the way, isn't he a total lunatic?

Grrrrr.

At the same time, Blackie who was near me let out a small growl. Following that voice, this man's gaze that had been fixated on my face finally moved to Blackie. This unknown man smiled as if he pitied the little black animal that I was now hugging.

"Okay. Because today I'm in a good mood, so I'll explain about this (Blackie)."

No, I'm not curious anymore. Not curious, I didn't ask either, can you just go? But then, I became curious after he said,

"He is a sinsu born from your magic power."

What? My magic power?

"Born from my magic power?"

I doubted my ears and asked again, and he looked at me with eyes that seemed to be looking at a child who was slow to think. Of course, I got emotional. No, who exactly is he? Even after all this, I was considered a talented child, where did you think I was stupid?

"That's why you don't have magic powers even though you're a direct descendant. Didn't your father tell you about this? And considering you have gem eyes, that means that boy (Aeternitas) became the heir to the throne and the Obelia Empire's bloodline hasn't changed. You said your father's name is Claude. But because you have gem eyes, that means your father is also a direct descendant, but he (Aeternitas) named his son Claude, I already knew that he was a gloomy person and had a bad personality, but this is more than I thought."

I don't know, where should I start. In the first place, I've never heard anything related to magic from Claude. Then secondly, Claude's Father is not Aeternitas. And most importantly, Aeternitas was the Emperor from 4 generations ago!

"Ah, I already feel like this is all bothersome."

Bothersome? Hey, you've only said a few sentences, but you already find it troublesome? Son of a bit#h!

"So you're saying that Blackie is a sinsu born from my magic power? What is a sinsu?"

"Sinsu is……"

He looked at me with a slightly confused expression, just like a teacher who was thinking about how to explain this so his student could understand it well, then he continued,

"In short, sinsu is the crystallization of your magic power."

"Magic power crystallization?"

"After you become an adult, it will be absorbed by you and turned into magic power that you can use freely."

He said all that with a skeptical look, probably thinking why he had to explain things like this.

"Sinsu is not just born into anyone, it is born only because the owner's abilities exceed the capacity of the owner's body and the owner is unable to handle it, it makes the owner's magic power come out of the body and appear in the form of an animal."

Shortly after hearing his words, a bell rang in my head.

"Usually they always stick to their owners and don't want to leave their owners. But it seems like your sinsu, it's shy."

So, in short, I'm very talented? That's why my magic power came out of my body? Because my magic power is too strong. So, it protected me!

"So you're saying I'm an Archmage?"

Wow, amazing. Remarkable! The day has finally come when my life will shine! My heart was beating fast. I can't believe I can do magic! I can't believe that I am an Archmage!

"More or less the same. Your magic power is very great, but there is a risk that you will break apart because your young body can't take it. Or it could be that your body is so weak that you won't be able to withstand normal magic power."

He glanced at Blackie in my arms, the corners of his mouth curved into an evil smile.

"But your sinsu is quite useful. Even though it's only temporary, it can damage the magic I made."

I don't know what it is, but it definitely has something to do with when this guy scared Blackie. So, Blackie is my magic power, then when I grow up, it will give me power. That's right, isn't it? Then, in the future, I can use magic freely? Wow! Wow! Wow! Wow! No matter how difficult and humiliating your life is, as long as you fight hard, you can become a shining person. I don't know why Claude didn't tell me about this, but either way, it might make my life last a little longer.

"Thanks for telling me, Oppa!"

Suddenly a circle of light appeared from behind this person*. If it wasn't for this oppa telling me, I wouldn't know all this! Eh, but this is a bit strange. In <Lovely Princess>, I never read anything about Athanasia being able to use magic.

T/N: *What this means is that Athi was grateful and amazed until Athi saw the light. That doesn't mean there really was light. LOL

"No need for thanks."

Ah, I don't really know. It's been over 7 years since I read that book, so my memory isn't that great. By the way, this oppa is a nicer and more polite person than I thought. He kindly explained to me what sinsu was and helped me catch Blackie! Besides, he humbly said that I didn't need to thank him.

"I have to go immediately."

For a moment, he looked to the other side and frowned as if he was predicting something, then he said that he had to leave immediately. Oh, right. Felix! Felix and Lily must be looking for me, I also have to leave immediately.

"Athi will go too. Oppa, be careful on the road."

I walked away while hugging Blackie…………

"Yes. We will meet again."

Suddenly Blackie in my arms disappeared. I lowered my head because I felt my arms become light as if there was nothing there. Then I immediately looked up in confusion. Eh? It turned out that Blackie was in the oppa's hands again.

"Huh? Why did you take it?"

Blackie groaned again pitifully in the man's arms. Then, the man lifted the corners of his lips and smiled sweetly at my question.

"When did I say that I would give it to you?"

The sign '??????????' appeared in my head. What did you just say?

"Didn't you just say that Blackie was mine?"

"Yeah, until I find it."

…………What do you say? Hah!? Did my ears hear it wrong? Why do you keep saying nonsense…………

"I took it. So, whether I eat it raw or grill it, that's up to me."

What kind of crazy person is he? How could he say something like that so confidently? For a moment, I was speechless when I saw him talk like that so casually. I stared at the man in front of me blankly for a few moments, then I realized when I heard Blackie's whining voice. No! What kind of person he is!!?

"Why would Oppa take it? It's mine! Give Blackie to me!"

He doesn't even have the manners of a thief! Even though Blackie's owner was right before his eyes, he said he wanted to steal Blackie from me?

“What are you going to do to Blackie!”

Y-You're not really going to pick it up and eat it, right? My beautiful little pet! Aaaaahhhhhh!

"What else? People who don't sleep have to sleep. People who are hungry have to eat, right?"

Again he started saying strange things.

"I only opened my eyes after a long time, much longer than I thought so my magic power has weakened a lot. For generations, the Imperial Family had high and pure magic power. So I came here to look for their sinsu, and now, I already found it, haven't I?"

Boommmmm! It felt like lightning had struck. I thought he was a Imperial Mage, but it turns out he is a thief who entered the Imperial Palace to steal sinsu?!

"But this is strange. Why is there no divine power here? It's as if the seed has dried up. After all, I just wasted my life. But thanks to you, I survived. Even though it's still lacking, but after I ate this sinsu, my magic power will be filled to a certain extent."

Ugh! As soon as I heard it, I immediately ran towards this bast#rd.

"No! Give Blackie back! Don't eat Blackie!"

Son of a bit#h! You tried to catch and eat my cute Blackie because you couldn't do anything! Moreover, Blackie is mine! My magic!

"Yes, that's why I tried to take it secretly without getting caught."

When I rushed towards him to snatch Blackie, he clicked his tongue and raised his arms high. No matter how hard I jumped and stretched out my arms, I couldn't touch Blackie. No! Give me my Blackie! Huhuhuuu. As I cried and kept jumping up and down to pick up Blackie, it seemed like this guy still had a conscience. He lowered his head and looked at me with a slight frown. After a while, he said,

"Even if you don't have sinsu, it's not a big deal. You'll just have to live without magic power like you did all this time."

It turns out he was just talking out of turn! How dare this bast#rd!

"The reason why your magic power decreases is your own problem, so why should I give you my Blackie! Give me my Blackie! Give it back! Give me back my Blackie!"

When I shouted loudly, he looked back at me as if he was thinking about something. Yes, it's still not too late! Come on, change your mind! If you bully a kid like me and my pet, then you will be punished!

"Should I not eat it?"

After a while, he knelt in front of me. I stepped back surprised by the level of our eyes. His red eyes were right in front of me.

"It's a bit troublesome and takes a long time, but it seems like there's another way to recover my magic power."

He spoke in a tone as if he had changed his mind. But what does that mean? If there is another way, you should just do it!

"Should I just leave it alone? Besides, this sinsu is still young, so even if I eat it, I don't think it will have much of an effect."

Every word he said made me so angry. But for some reason, if I heard from his words, I thought something I would regret later would happen. I just looked at him with wary eyes, and it seemed like he had changed his strategy. It won't work even if you put on a pitiful face!

"I am a very, very, very good mage. I wouldn't be able to sleep at night if I stole from a kid like you."

"Don't make me laugh!"

I screamed non-stop. A guy like him who crawled here to steal other people's sinsu, I should trust him? In the end, I still didn't believe it until finally, he laughed with a regretful face. After that, I became angry again because of the words he said.

"Then, let's do this. I'll postpone it until this sinsu grows up. As long as I delay it, I might change my mind. Don't you agree?"

"Absolutely not. Delaying what? Why should I agree?"

"You said, 'Why'?"

I got a little angry because as soon as I opened my mouth to argue, he immediately burst out laughing as if he had heard something really stupid, but then his red eyes looked directly into mine, making me speechless.

"That's because I let you live!"

He was still smiling, but for some reason I got goosebumps.

"You should know. I can get rid of you and take your sinsu right now. Or I can swallow all your magic power right here, right now. Maybe if that person wasn't you, I would do it straight away without hesitation. But especially for you, I will postpone it."

My spine went cold as I watched his smile bloom right before my eyes.

"That's because I like you."

He spoke in a very friendly tone but his facial expression was scary. And it hit me that what he said was a truth I didn't want to admit. This guy in front of me, perhaps it would be easier for him to get rid of me and take Blackie instead of coaxing me like this. Besides, as he said earlier, he might change his mind. That could happen.

……But didn't I just shout at him passionately and say 'Why should I agree?'. I slowly released my grip on this man's shirt. I-I don't want to agree, but I'm scared. Just being alone with this madman together with Blackie, this was naturally a dangerous situation. Huhuhuuuu… Blackie, I'm sorry. I'm too weak to protect you. Huhuhuuuu. When I realized the situation and remained silent, he smiled as if he was a good person.

"Don't be afraid. I'm a good mage. I told you, maybe I'll change my mind and not eat it, right?"

Have all the good mages in this world freeze to death!? If you are such a good mage, then get out of my palace! You call yourself a good mage, but instead, you blackmail a 7-year-old child! I, who kept my mouth closed, now started to pay attention to him and asked. I-I want to ask him, but I'm afraid. Huhuhuuu.

"In exchange, what do you want from me?"

"You're quite smart."

He giggled as if he had discovered something very interesting.

"You don't have to do anything. What I want from you is something very small and insignificant, and I can get it myself even if you don't do anything. Oh, you don't have to worry, I won't take anything from you."

What's that? This is very uncomfortable. But if I don't want to, will he eat Blackie and eat it right now? Geez! God, why did you make me such a weak person!?

"And if later you say something different or deceive me…………"

"I won't. Didn't I tell you that I am a good mage? I will set a condition, the condition is that I will do it without hurting you. I swear."

Smear the saliva of your lies in your mouth, man! You think I will fall for your words.

"And if I agree, what will I get from you?"

Eh, but what power do I have? I couldn't do anything but look at him suspiciously. It's been a long time since I felt this threat to my life, but I never felt happy about it. Sob.

"Maybe, even though this sinsu is grown up, I won't eat it. That way you won't lose, right?"

He looked at my face as if confirming it for the last time. You evil bast#rd! From the start, I had no choice! There was no way he didn't notice my dissatisfied gaze, but I couldn't resist it. He smiled brightly as if he thought that I had agreed. Then, he handed the Blackie that he had been holding to me.

"Here, take it."

Aaahhhh, Blackie! After the dramatic reunion with Blackie, I immediately stepped back in fear that he would take it again. Blackie, who was just on the verge of life and death, whimpers in my arms and trembles as if it knows that it has returned to its owner.

"I really have to go. It feels annoying because I'm just wasting magic power here."

Ugh, get out of here quickly! I hugged Blackie tightly to protect Blackie from this guy. You're not going to go back and change your mind again, right? Geez! Suddenly, he turned towards me, he shocked me so much that I would go crazy. Ugh, I think I'm going to have the hiccups.

"What's your name?"

"What do you want to know for?"

Ah, the curt answer came out reflexively without my knowledge. Then, he said with a sad expression because he felt misunderstood.

"What's wrong with you? I'm not a bad person."

I've always hated you, you know. I continued holding Blackie and kept my mouth shut, not saying anything. Finally, he opened his mouth as if he had no choice.

"Then, I'll tell you my name first. I'm Lucas. When we meet next, call me by my name."

No, no, no, no! I don't want to call you by your name, nor do I want to see you again! However, thankfully he turned around as if he was really going to leave this place after saying that. And once again, I witnessed an extraordinary sight.

Snap.

As soon as he snapped his fingers, a mysterious white light appeared in the air like a bubble. Just before he disappeared completely into the dazzling light, he looked back at me one last time and smiled.

"I'll go. See you later."

Right after that, he moved his lips several times, but his voice didn't reach my ears. In a flash of light, I accidentally closed my eyes and when I slowly opened my eyelids, there was no one there.

***

"Princess, what are you holding in your arms?"

When I returned to my room while hugging Blackie, Felix was memorizing 40 words of Arlanta Language. He opened his eyes wide when he saw what I was hugging to my chest.

"You left me and said you wanted to play alone, but it turns out you made a new friend."

"I said that I want to play alone?"

"Yes. You also told that to Miss Lilian. You said you wanted to play alone in the park without being disturbed."

After hearing what Felix said, I realized that this was Lucas' doing. Wow, wow, what a scary guy. Even if I disappeared there, no one would know. The moment I realized that fact, I started to think that he was a truly scary person.

Ughhh.

Oh, barely making it out alive from that psychopathic monster.

"Princess, you are just in time for lunch."

While I was breaking out in a cold sweat remembering the guy I just met, Lily opened the door and walked into the room.

"Princess, today's snack is your favorite chocolate cake. It's been a long time since you…… Oh my? What is that?"

Lily opened her eyes wide at the lump of black fur in my arms. Come to think of it, can I keep animals in the palace?

"Woof!"

Then, Blackie, who had been silent in my arms, suddenly jumped to the floor with sparkling eyes.

"Ouch, Blackie!"

A clump of black fur crossed the carpet and ran towards Lily who was placing plates on the table. Lily also looked shocked.

"Wait!"

Felix quickly left his chair to catch Blackie, but it was too late.

At that moment, I knew for the first time that Blackie could move that fast. Blackie used its incredible strength to climb Felix's body and jump onto the table. Then, Blackie stuck his nose over the plate and……

Yum, yum, yum!

Blackie ate my chocolate cake in one bite. The three of us could only stare at the cheeks of the lump of black fur that was bulging from chewing. That's when I realized and I screamed, "Aaaaahhhhhhh". It turns out you are the chocolate thief!

***

“Blackie, come take a shower!”

"Princess, you should dry your hair."

I ignored Lily's call and ran towards Blackie. I just finished my afternoon shower and I feel refreshed. I wanted to bathe together with Blackie, but Lily wouldn't let me. No matter how precious Blackie is to me, Lily still won't let my pet Blackie (actually a sinsu) to bathe with me. Many times I had to postpone my time to have fun with Blackie.

Come on, Blackie, now it's your turn to bathe! Oh, but apparently when I got to my room, I couldn't see Blackie on my bed. Where did it go? This wasn't the first or second time that Blackie had hidden somewhere or run away like this. So now, I started looking for the place where the lump of black fur was hiding. As I expected, as soon as I looked around the room, I saw Blackie's tail wagging on the bed.

“Blackie, I found you!”

I immediately ran to bed and lay down on the floor.

"Princess, what are you doing!?"

Seeing me like this, Lily was very surprised, but I was still busy hugging Blackie. Oh my gosh, Blackie is so cute! My sweet Blackie, whose sinsu are you? Haha. Ever since that guy named Lucas told me that Blackie was my sinsu, for some reason, that affection has only increased. Could it be because this is the first time in my life, I have something like this?

Blackie who was wagging his tail under the bed heard my giggling, he wiggled its ears and raised its face. Its yellow eyes looked the same as coins, looked at me. Geez! No, if you look at me like that, then my heart! I was very surprised by Blackie's cuteness and hugged it to my chest. Even the way it tilted its head and looked at me like that, was really cute.

"Let's make your black fur beautiful and shiny."

"Woof, woof."

Even though it didn't bathe, its jet-black fur glistened. But, I think I should still bathe it because all day it has been playing and running around with me outside. Of course, Blackie really hated water, so there would be a war every time it took a bath,

“Blackie is a good boy. Keep quiet…… Ugh!”

"Woof!"

Today too, I had to struggle hard to bathe Blackie. Seeing me struggling hard, Lily just sighed.

"That's why I said let me bathe it. You're getting wet again."

"It doesn't matter!"

Just then, Blackie wagged its tail and I became drenched. You're not a cat, so why do you hate water so much? It is like me who avoided water after falling into the lake.

“Blackie, let's eat after this.”

Seeing me continue to care for Blackie even though I was soaked, Lily finally gave up. I saw Lily laughing as Blackie and I lay on the floor.

"Yum, yum. Blackie, what a good and beautiful boy."

Blackie ate fresh fruit from Obelia. Several times Lily had tried to feed it to pet's food, but every time that happened, Blackie would wag its shaggy tail and destroy the bowl non-stop. The same thing happens when I give it food that dogs and cats like.

Even though Lily had known since the first day that Blackie liked chocolate so much that it stole the chocolate cake that Lily had prepared for my snack, Lily and Felix were still worried because ordinary pets were not allowed to eat chocolate or similar foods. However, perhaps it was because Blackie was still small, so he was not affected by such things. Well, I mean, he's definitely the one who's been stealing my chocolate from the kitchen for years! Luckily I also eat fruit, but is it okay for sinsu to be picky about food like this?

"Lily, Lily, what animal do you think Blackie is?"

I asked Lily because I didn't know much about the animals in Obelia.

"Hmm, maybe some kind of Baum or Leffy?"

Lily looked worried because she didn't know either. I bit into a purple apple —Obelia's native fruit and stroked Blackie's fur while muttering. Among the animals I've ever seen, Blackie is similar to that animal. Hmm, what is the name of that breed of dog? Po…… Po…… Pome…………

"Ah!"

Yes, that's correct! Pomeranians! The fur is the same as the Pomeranian!

"What's wrong, Princess?"

"Ehehe, nothing."

Oh, how cute. Geez! Ugh, beautiful, so beautiful. Oh, darling, my darling.

"Tomorrow, after a long time, you will meet His Majesty."

Yes. In fact, for the past few times, I have always eaten together with Blackie, played in the park with it, taken naps with it, and now all that happiness is over. Sob.

"Princess, you should sleep now. Come on, give me Blackie."

"Hehhhh, I still want to play with Blackie."

I looked at Blackie with a sad look, Blackie was licking its paw because it had just finished eating. But Lily remained firm, she immediately separated me and Blackie. Blackie could only stay silent and curl up in Lily's arms, so I went and lay down on my bed feeling sad.

***

"Daddy!"

As soon as I saw Claude, I started running like someone who saw a cute puppy. The reason is, that I haven't acted like this for a long time, so I can't empathize in the slightest.

"I miss you!"

I smiled broadly at him, and he just moved his eyes at me with an expressionless face.

Today, as usual, Claude welcomed me by sitting on the throne in the Throne Room. If it was like before, then his current appearance was so intimidating that I might lose my enthusiasm. But now, I can roughly guess what the conditions are like. You're sleepy, right? Are you sleepy because you haven't seen this sweet and adorable princess for a long time? You are sleepy? And you told me to come? Previously Felix told me that Claude sleeps a maximum of 4 hours a day, so he must be tired. Even though he was an Emperor, that didn't mean he could do anything freely. Originally, I thought an Emperor could freely do whatever he wanted, but that wasn't the case.

“Your Highness, it is a sunny day. How about you and the Princess go out and take a walk?”

It seemed Felix felt it too, the atmosphere around Claude seemed more languid than usual. I was in a good mood to go for a walk, however, my gaze was currently diverted to something else.

"Take a walk? Not bad."

Shiny. No matter how I look at it, the throne is really cool. how much is that big gem worth on the market? All the beautiful children that I hid in my room were small and cute jewels of mini size, but the one here was an extraordinarily beautiful child of giant size, so without realizing it, my eyes kept staring at it. Oops, my drool is almost dripping. I have to be careful.

"Princess?"

"Um."

Don't separate me from this beautiful child. Heheheee. If I take that one beautiful child, I will never want anything else. When I felt that someone was approaching, I reached out my hand and pulled the new tip of the clothes as usual. It was my habit every time I asked Felix to carry me, I did it without realizing it because I was still engrossed in staring at the jewel. But for some reason, Felix wouldn't carry me even though I asked him to. Oh, yeah, didn't he just say 'take a walk'? So I had to walk together with Claude.

"Daddy……"

'Athi also likes to take a walk with you!' I was about to say that, but before my mouth opened, I raised my head and was stunned by the face in front of me.

"Eh!?"

Claude!? Why is he here? Where's Felix? When I raised my head curiously, I saw Felix who was standing 3 or 4 steps away from me. No, why are you standing so far away? I thought you were the one in front of me right now! Now I realized that Claude had just gotten up from his seat and passed me because the door to the Throne Room was behind me. Aaahhhh! I didn't know that, so I immediately pulled his clothes.

"What's this?"

Claude looked at me as if asking what I was doing. But Felix was the one who saw us, he smiled brightly and threw a bomb at me.

"She wants you to carry her."

No! It is not like that!

"Carry?"

"Yes. The Princess often does that to me when her feet hurt when walking."

It's different for you! I wouldn't do something like that to Claude!

Claude raised his eyebrows when he heard Felix's words, and then he looked at me, making me feel even more threatened.

"No. There was something on Daddy's clothes... Uwaaaa!"

Ugh! Wait, my stomach! Suddenly Claude grabbed me, so I thrashed in the air for a while. Moreover, he placed me by his side, treating me like an item as he had done before. Claude looked at me and clicked his tongue briefly as I struggled in discomfort.

"You're so heavy, and you can't stay still."

The way he spoke was like a child who knew nothing about his parent's hard work and was making a fuss, and it made my forehead drip with sweat. I feel like I'm overweight! In this position, I could see my pair of tiny leather shoes and lace socks that went all the way to my ankles. Now my body feels folded in half like a folder! Isn't it appropriate that I don't feel comfortable with this? Eh?

"Your Majesty, if you carry her like that, then the Princess will feel uncomfortable."

"She just needs to stay still without using her legs. What makes her uncomfortable?"

It seemed that Claude really didn't understand what Felix was saying. I tried to inform myself of my condition by whining.

"M-My breath…… Sob."

Besides, sweat was dripping down my forehead. I stretched out my hands with a tearful look, asking Felix to save me.

"Don't be like that. You have to carry her like this."

I know that Felix will definitely carry me well because he is like a means of transportation for me, and Felix already knows how to carry me well so that I feel comfortable. It was unbelievable that he was the one who threw the bomb at me, but he was also the one who saved me from Claude. Yes, carry me then let's get out of here!

"Now, please carry the Princess like I did."

No, don't do that! Don't hand me over to Claude! Huhuuuu. I attached myself more and more to Felix who tried to hand me over to Claude.

"P-Princess?"

Felix looked a little surprised, but I couldn't help it either. I don't want to be an item carried by Claude's side anymore, I also hate being around Claude like that. Just thinking about it is embarrassing! I don't want to, I don't want to!

“Your Majesty is waiting…………”

"I'll go like this with Felix."

I looked at Felix with sparkling eyes. When I said that, Felix looked embarrassed. But at the same time, he also felt happy, so he raised the corners of his mouth and coughed slightly, then said to Claude.

"Ahem. Since the Princess wants it, I have no other choice. I will carry you, Princess."

"……"

"Come on, Your Majesty. Please go first, the Princess and I will follow you."

Yes, yes. Let's stop all this and just go for a walk. As expected, the way Felix carried me was fun and perfect! I mean, don't try to torture me by handing me over to Claude. But for some reason, Claude didn't move a single step from where he was standing. I rolled my eyes in dismay at the gaze directed at my face. What is he doing?? Now you don't have to carry me and make your hands hurt. However, I was surprised by Claude's low voice, his tone as if he didn't like something.

"I'll carry her."

What!? No!

"I thought there was a special way to carry a child so you kept giving advice, but it turns out there was nothing."

It seems like his pride was hurt because he couldn't hold a child properly, but that's your own problem! None of my business.

"Athi and Fe—"

"So you don't like being carried by me?"

"Ehehehe."

Sob. I was stunned by the grim question. I extended my hand to Claude with a big smile. Looks like I've been rude lately, huh? I will reflect on myself. This guy is a villain who can be good and evil at any time, I was too careless to forget that. Sob. In the end, I held back my tears and moved into Claude's arms.

But look. This is awkward, isn't it? You don't know what to do with your arms, do you? Of all things, when Claude carried me, our eyes met. Haha. Reflexively I smiled at Claude. Oops, I can't do this. Somehow, in the end, Claude still carried me.

"Move. Annoying."

Claude even pushed Felix aside who was standing there stunned after I was in Claude's arms. Can you get out of my life? Because you really disturb my life. Gone forever! Get out of my life forever!

"I'll go first, follow me from behind."

Claude carried me and walked away, leaving Felix behind. No, what's wrong with poor Felix? Hmmm. Maybe he was sad because he was attacked by Claude's words. That's right, Felix has also scratched Claude's self-esteem for no reason. As for me, I won't move my body just because I feel uncomfortable. I am a stone statue. Just stay still like this, don't move. I won't even move my toes, stay still.

"Does Felix carry you like this all the time?"

When you were walking through the corridor after leaving the Throne Room, Claude suddenly asked me that.

"While visiting you, Dad?"

"Besides that."

While at the Ruby Palace. The only time I went out of the Ruby Palace was when I went to see your face.

"Athi can walk alone because Athi is strong and healthy!"

So putting me down now. Sob.

"Even now, if Daddy holds Athi, Athi can walk."

"You mean, you prefer to get off and walk alone because you feel uncomfortable, and that's because Felix isn't the one carrying you?"

Cough. Why do you have to ask something like that………… It seems Felix has really hurt his pride. He really is a narrow-minded person. I just need to be quiet before my little back explodes.

"Apart from when I call you, don't ask Felix to carry you. It will become a habit."

What does this mean? Are you planning to take Felix from me? Yes, it just so happened that Felix was at my side a little longer than planned, even though he was just a temporary knight. Come to think of it, Claude said he would choose a knight for me and there's been no news about that for 2 years. Didn't you just stop halfway to look for knights for me because it was troublesome? By the way, since earlier, something has been bothering me. What's this? Bug?

"Yo-Your Majesty. Can I come a little closer?"

Hey! I can see it ahead. This is annoying. Even though I couldn't move because I was being carried by Claude. Go. You don't want to go? Ugh, I need Seth who is the Top 3 ruler of the Ruby Palace!

"Didn't I tell you that you're annoying? Take another 10 steps back."

I tried to shoo him away by waving my hands as calmly as possible. But, these da#n bugs keep roaming around me non-stop. Aaarghhh, how annoying!

"If you're tired, I can carry the Princess."

Oh, that sucks! Die, you bugs!

"Noisy…"

Slap!

I tried to hit the bug with my hand, but it seemed like I was slapping something else, not the bug. After a moment of silence, the jewel's eyes looked at me.

"Ugh."

My hand, which was now frozen still, was still on Claude's cheek. I just wanted to swat the bug, but why is my hand here? The sound 'Slap!' that sounded in my ears, and the tickling feeling that felt like I had slapped something, my hand felt that feeling…… Then……

"Just now……"

In the end, when Claude's deep voice came out of his mouth, I was shocked and withdrew my hand from Claude's right cheek.

"……What are you doing?"

What did I just do? I was filled with fear. Could it be that, just now, I slapped Claude on the cheek?

"Your Majesty."

Felix was also surprised by Claude's unusual reaction. My body froze as I looked at his cold eyes reflected right in front of my nose. It felt like cold air filled my surroundings. In that terrible silence, Claude finally smiled eerily.

"It seems like I've been too lenient with you all this time."

I realized what the cold look in his eyes meant. Immediately, my whole body began to shake like an aspen tree. I tried hard to hide it, but once this happened, my fear of Claude started to eat away at me.

"A toy that is no longer interesting."

Only 7 years old. A short but also long time for me to fight for my life.

"I'll get rid of you."

The person in front of me could do that very easily, with just 1 move. When Claude's hand touched my neck, I felt like my soul was separated from my body. And maybe it's not just a feeling. If not, then I wouldn't lose my consciousness like this. The last thing I saw before I died were those heartless eyes, which didn't even contain the slightest warmth towards me. Ah, Athi is a good………… Thank you for reading my story to the end……

"Just now……"

But, when a deep voice came out of Claude's mouth, I woke up from my delusion. Ouch. Geez! Maybe I'm just dreaming? Am I not dead yet? After rubbing my neck, I realized that I was still alive, and I thanked God.

"……What are you doing?"

Huhuhuuu. It wasn't me who did it, but the black dragon in my right hand, just now the black dragon went berserk…… No, no! I don't know this right hand! This is not my right hand! I was fantasizing earlier, and that fantasy started from the scene where I slapped Claude on the cheek! Oops! It felt like I had stepped on a land mine in an unexpected place and detonated it, so I couldn't think of anything because the inside of my head turned white. However, when my consciousness drifted far away into the Andromeda Galaxy, Felix, who was just as shocked by what I had done, tried to lighten the mood first.

"I'm sorry, Your Majesty. I shouldn't have made a fuss."

Wow! Felix, are you really crazy? That doesn't lighten the mood but rather confirms a crime. Doesn't it sound like I hit Claude to get the two of you to stop arguing? What nonsense are you trying to feed me? I mean, I didn't mean to slap him!

"B-Bu-Bugs! There are bugs!"

This time I was so shocked that I couldn't speak properly. Then, Claude, who was looking at me with his eyes wide open, saw my panicked figure, and then he opened his mouth again.

"You called me a bug?"

Hey, no, no, no!

"No, there was a bug on your face, Dad! Athi tried to get rid of it, so Athi did that! Got it!"

Huhuhuuu. It's a long but also a short life. I've tried my best to survive until my 18th birthday, but I never thought that my life would end like this. That's just called 'Life Division'. Oops, oh, damn, this damn black dragon in my right hand…………

"I see. Then, if the Princess blows on His Majesty's cheek, wouldn't it heal quickly?"

I've felt this for a long time, but I really want to hit Felix………… I don't know if he's trying to help me or wants to kill me. Don't make me do that! I've tried so hard to sort out this mess, but! You actually want to make me do that! I looked at Claude with tears in my eyes.

“Dad, hu, huuuu*……………”

T/N: *This is the blowing sound that Athi makes.

Da#n it! It's hard to live……

***

About 30 minutes later, I drank milk mixed with tears. Sob. Friends, I'm still alive. My neck is still firmly attached to my shoulder! Huhuhuuuuu, it seems like all this time I've only been thinking about Claude's bad side. The proof, now! Even though I slapped his cheek! Claude didn't kill me, he saved me! I misjudged Claude! Of course, from then on, he continued to watch me with an annoyed and sharp gaze. The milk I drank, for some reason, this won't be my last dinner, right?

"Indeed, wouldn't it be better if I carried the Princess?"

Felix, who didn't realize it, asked Claude. Geez! If you want to die, just die yourself. I mean, I still have a long future!

Without answering, Claude looked at Felix and drank tea. This is an outdoor garden, a place where we always spend time drinking together.

I wanted to meet Claude and ask him if he knew about sinsu, and I also wanted to talk about that idiot Lucas, but now I'll just keep quiet. He used to always look at me as if he wanted to kill me, but now he just leaves me alone even though I slapped him on the cheek. Geez! Suddenly I realized how great I was. Don't kill me, because I don't want anything. Starting today, I will keep a good eye on the black dragon in my right hand. Sob.

"I think I'll have to find someone new to put next to you."

But Claude, who had been looking at me with narrowed eyes, suddenly said that. Hah? Why did you draw such a conclusion? It seemed that Felix also felt that Claude's words were too sudden.

"From now on, I want to make you learn martial arts."

Hah? Learn martial arts, who? You mean, me?

I almost squirted the milk I was drinking. No, you asked me to learn martial arts because your cheek was slapped by me? Why do you suddenly want me to learn martial arts?

"You can't even catch a bug properly, you just throw your hands around everywhere. You have to learn at least one or two things so you don't make mistakes like that again."

Ugh. He's so annoying………… Claude's words made me break out in a cold sweat. Was my slap that surprising to him?

"Moreover,"

What else do you want to say!? My heart started beating fast because Claude's gaze was full of coldness.

"Your hand strength is so weak that you can't do anything properly. If you continue like that, bugs might catch you."

Uh, what is that? The figure of speech for irony? He must have been slapped pretty hard by me, I can't believe my hand strength is so weak like that. You just swore at me saying that I looked like a bug, right? Right?

"But, the Princess is still 7 years old……"

"Besides, the person assigned as her knight is actually useless because he doesn't do anything other than carry her all day long."

Hearing Claude's cruel words, Felix immediately became depressed and sullen. Of course, Felix couldn't do anything, it was because the Imperial Palace was very peaceful, and the knight became useless because he didn't need to protect me from any danger. As expected, Claude was in a bad mood and he wanted to vent.

Hmmm. This is strange. Since then my heart has been pounding, pounding, pounding... Ugh. Geez. Is this an arrhythmia (heart rhythm disturbance)? It is said that the source of all illnesses is stress, and perhaps because of the crazy people around me, my heart continued to work hard………… Oh, until suddenly, my chest felt like it was on fire…………

"Ugh."

Then, something hot rose from my throat. Ugh! Could it be the milk I just drank!? Hearing the sound of vomiting, Claude and Felix who were next to me, turned their gaze to me. But, right after that, both of their faces changed. I'm embarrassed! Embarrassing! I still haven't vomited! I thought I had endured it, but my stomach started to feel sick again. Come to think of it, it seemed like there was milk coming out from around my mouth.

"Princess!"

Hah? But why is the milk red? As soon as I wondered about that, something strange came out of my mouth again. At the same time, my eyes seemed to roll around. What's this? No matter how I think about it, doesn't this look like blood? Don't tell me, I was poisoned………

That's all that's on my mind. I couldn't feel the feeling that anyone lifting my fallen body from the chair, my ears couldn't hear someone's loud screams, and I couldn't feel anything else. Maybe I will die? Died in vain? …………Isn't this too sudden for a development?

***

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