Suddenly I Became a Princess Volume 2 Chapter 6

Translated: reireiss, MTLs-nim 

Edited: reireiss, Grammarly ssi 

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Translator Note:

This is a long long long chapter. Longer than previous chapters...

So...... Bear with me, please (/▿＼ )

Thank You!

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Chapter 6 – The Memorable Debutante

"She is my daughter?"

Everyone muttered loudly at this unprecedented situation, which they had not even imagined. With a glance, I saw Duke Alphaeus and Izekiel standing right next to me with their heads bowed, just like me. After seeing the two of them, my anxious thoughts quickly stabilized. And the person in front of us, Emperor Claude fell silent for a moment.

Zenith slightly raised her head from the greeting position she had learned so far. I knew that moving without permission like this was against etiquette, but I did it because I wanted to see my father's face, a father I had never seen before. Two pairs of beautiful gem eyes shining colorfully under the chandelier met in the air. Fortunately, Claude was not angry at this action. Ah, that's my father. As soon as I learned that fact, deep emotions quickly filled my heart.

At that moment, the Emperor's gaze fell behind us for a moment. Inadvertently, Zenith followed his gaze and was immediately shocked. Because, there was a girl with a very pale face, to the point where she was worried that girl would faint.

Moreover, the girl was standing alone in the middle of this huge Hall, she was shaking and looked pitiful. If one looked closely, one could tell that she was a beautiful person, but she had an air that reminded me of a white gypsophila (baby's breath) flower that was wilting without life. Not long after, Zenith realized that the girl was her half-sister, Princess Athanasia.

"This is interesting."

The Emperor's voice made her move her eyes curiously.

"I'll hear the details in the Throne Room. I'll be on my way."

Claude, who had been sitting bored throughout the Debutante Party, now smiled a little for the first time. No one dared to disobey him, so everyone let him go politely. And as soon as the Emperor completely left his seat, all around, the people became noisy with shocking sounds.

"Straighten your waist."

Zenith breathed a sigh of relief and nervousness, turning her gaze to the voice of Duke Alphaeus who was beside her.

"No matter what anyone says, today's main character is you, Princess Zenith."

And it will continue to do so.

Duke Alphaeus who had raised her like his own daughter since she was little, now spoke in formal language to her. It was very uncomfortable, but that was the burden of reality she had to bear now.

"Hand."

Izekiel, who was next to her, reached out his hand to her. After exhaling deeply, Zenith grabbed the hand extended towards her. Everyone watched with bated breath as I left the Hall escorted by Duke Alphaeus and his son, Izekiel. Then, Zenith discovered Princess Athanasia's whereabouts buried in the crowd. Her jewel-like eyes flashed with blue light.

Before entering the Hall, Zenith had heard whispers from the other nobles that her father, Claude did not accompany Princess Athanasia, nor did Claude dance with her in her first dance today. In fact, not even congratulations were given to her.

Zenith, a girl who grew up full of affection since childhood, was worried about her half-sister who was left alone with a shabby appearance, even though today should be the day where she shone brightly more than anyone else. There was nothing Zenith could do for her right now. She could only step on the red carpet and take one step to the place where she should have been standing in the first place.

—『Lovely Princess - Chapter 2: Memorable Debutante』

***

"Half a step to the right."

One fine day, when I was 13 years old. I'm used to dancing without music.

"Two more rounds, very good!"

It wasn't easy to match the beats with just the sound of clapping, but after repeating it for hundreds to thousands of times, I got used to it. Hm, Haha. This is a human victory!

"Take a step back, then step right again."

It's almost done. I spun around a bit and then stood back up in the starting position, balancing. And finally, goodbye! Clap! I know very well that my current appearance will look like a butterfly. My dance teacher, Madame Pompadour spoke in a soft tone, but full of joy.

"Princess Athanasia's dancing skills are truly impeccable. I wanted to make your dancing into a textbook and present it to the girls I teach. How can you move so lightly, gracefully, and beautifully like a fairy!?"

Heh, want to know why I'm good at dancing? That's because I'm a ninja! Hahahaha! …………Hm, Ahem, ahem. Forgive me. I can become like this because I am Fairy Eonni's daughter. Do you know the mysteries of genetics? It seemed like Madame Pompadour was thinking the same thing.

"It seems like the fact that your mother is a dancer helps a lot in situations like this."

Gosh, she's like that again.

Madame Pompadour doesn't mean to offend, but depending on what you hear, it could be quite unpleasant. But, as usual, I just looked at her with a big smile.

"I'm flattered. I just studied hard like what you taught me."

I could feel Madame Pompadour impressed by my humble words. A beautiful and good-at-everything girl like me, of course, can be a little arrogant, but I'm not like that!

Madame Pompadour left the Emerald Palace with a happy face. Only after that, the wide, bright smile disappeared from my face. Phew! It's okay, I know you didn't mean to be offensive, but do you have to talk about my mother all the time? As I got older, more and more teachers regretted my birth (like a reproach), so I hated hearing those words.

Apart from that, in my previous life, Madame Pompadour's attitude could make people offended, but if the person who was offended got angry at her attitude, it was the person who was offended who would actually be considered wrong by the public. So I'd rather not deal with them every time they say something like that. Hmmm. But actually, I know that those people didn't say that with bad intentions, so I can deal with it.

"That Grandmother stayed for a long time, she finally left."

Suddenly, a soft voice came from behind. His sudden appearance no longer surprised me. Without looking back, I started untying my shoelaces and sat down. Ugh, my legs hurt after today's hard training.

"If you're standing idle, it would be nice if you could be my dance practice partner."

"I'd rather go to the dungeon without magic."

Lucas answered as if he had been waiting for those words. To me, it felt kind of funny because I knew how obsessed he was with social dancing. It's just that he doesn't want to dance, that's all.

"Don't you feel sorry for me having to wiggle around by myself like a paper doll?"

"You were having fun doing it, but now you act like you don't enjoy it."

What's wrong with this Crazy Bast#rd? Why is he acting so annoying today? It's true that I really enjoy my dancing time! I indeed did the 'unpartnered dance' without feeling embarrassed! Even so! Even so! There's no reason for you to act like that! After I untied my shoelaces, I looked at him and he made a face that said, 'What are you going to do?' and that made me even angrier.

"It's really frustrating."

Then, at some point, Lucas, this Crazy Bast#rd stepped in front of me and took the shoelace I was holding. Maybe because this didn't happen 1 or 2 times, so I remained silent and didn't do anything.

"By the way, why do you always wear high heels like this? If you wear something like this, you'll look tall."

"At least I'll be taller than you, Oppa?"

Over the past 6 years, many things have changed, one of which is the difference between me and this Crazy Bast#rd, surprisingly, I have become closer to him than I thought. This Crazy Bast#rd also changes its body size in line with my growth. So, he had the appearance of a boy with a similar build and height to me, someone who was 13 years old. Hmmm. Of course, in a few months, it will be my birthday. So I will be 14 soon. By the way, he is very agile. If there is an expert in removing shoelaces, this is it. Haha.

"This makes you taller than me? Nonsense. Only half."

As Lucas laughed at my words, I untied my hair that I had tied together while I was dancing. Then, my bright blonde hair swayed over my shoulders and fell. Hehehehe. My hair is very beautiful. In my previous life, my hair was brown and I cut it short because I found it difficult to manage. But in this life, my hair is very soft and smooth to the touch because my hair has been well cared for since I was little. With just one look, this was indeed a princess's hair! In short, my beautiful hair is a miracle of genetics! Thank you, Fairy Eonni, Diana!

"Why are you so slow? Hurry up, hurry up."

I fumbled with my hair happily and also happily, I scolded Lucas who was untying the last knot from my shoelace. Dance practice shoes are often tied in a tight knot so they don't come off while dancing, so I have to spend quite a bit of time just putting them on and taking them off before and after practice.

"I still have a lot of work to do after this. It will be faster if you release it using magic."

"Since a while ago, you've been tending to look down on my magic. You actually want me to destroy these damn shoes…………"

The Crazy Bast#rd raised his head with narrowed eyes, and I suddenly fell silent. Right after that, I wondered if his dilated pupils had slightly changed shape. Eh? Besides, if you don't want to do it, then why are you doing it (untying the shoelaces) now? Has he been doing this too often lately? I looked at him with my mouth closed. At that moment, Lucas suddenly threw the shoes he was holding onto the floor.

"Done."

What's wrong with him? Is he angry because I asked him to use magic for a small thing like this? Is it true?

"I-I'm just kidding. Of course, for a handsome boy! A mage! A genius! Mr. Lucas' magic is the most dignified in the universe………"

Snap!

But, this Crazy Bast#rd disappeared right before my eyes in an instant without saying a word. Oh, that Crazy Bast#rd! His mood was truly hard to understand! Sob. There was still 1 knot left, but he left before untying it! I was left alone. I snorted and started to untie the knot while grumbling at Lucas who had disappeared before my eyes.

***

Tonight there is a dinner appointment with Claude.

"Daddy!"

Actually, not only today, yesterday, today, tomorrow, and the day after tomorrow, we have promised to have dinner together. Since 4 years ago, I have been spending tea and dinner with Claude every day. Today, I arrived a little earlier than the promised time, so I already met Claude before we sat down at the dining table. Of course, I immediately smiled and ran towards him. Once I was in front of him, I stopped for a moment and then I hugged Claude who was waiting.

"I already told you, do not run."

Even so, I know that you don't hate the fact that I run to greet you every time I see you. I laughed when I felt Claude's hand rest on my shoulder, it was more like a hug because of the difference in our body sizes.

"Dad, I miss you today!"

In the morning, a servant sent by Claude came and told me that Claude couldn't spend his time drinking tea with me because of business, so I could only see him once today. Not just today, yesterday and the previous few days too, we only met at dinner. While I was thinking about that, Claude suddenly raised the corners of his lips and said something strange.

"Is there something special about continuing to meet like this every day?"

"Ehehe. But it's fun."

If you are bored of seeing my face, then you don't need to call me to drink tea and have dinner together. Isn't it? Hehehe. I know everything but I pretend not to know.

I smiled broadly and lifted my heels, then I kissed Claude's cheek as a greeting. I know that Claude is used to my love attacks, now he always lowers his head every time I do it.

"Come in."

When I was with Claude, what I talked to him about were details about the activities I did that day. So talk about learning has a high proportion of stories. Hmmmm, it can't be helped. I spend most of my time at the Emerald Palace!

"Lately, Ethics Class has been the most fun. I finished reading an ethics book in 10 days and now I'm going to study the new Introduction to Ethics Book. So, I'm really looking forward to it."

And when it comes to studying, most of them are my pride. I dared to talk about those things to Claude because I always received praise from the teachers, and I did it on purpose to attract his attention by showing that I was good at something.

“Then, the teacher from the dance class. Every time I dance, she says that I………”

Instead of babbling to myself as usual, now, I gasped. Without realizing it, I almost said, 'Teacher from Dance Class. Every time I dance, she says that I look like Mom!' Oops, I almost stepped on a mine! It's become a habit for me to talk alone throughout dinner, so me, stop saying unnecessary things! This will be a bloody night if I don't come to my senses soon and shut my mouth. My survival instinct, you have worked hard today. Ah, today I have to fight again. Aaaahhhhhh.

"She said that I looked like a fairy! Hehe."

Reflexively, I changed my words and covered the unfavorable gaps between my words with a bright laugh. Then, Claude looked at me with wary eyes for a while and then he said in an indifferent tone.

"Every day Madame Pompadour often says nonsense. So, whatever it is, just listen to it in moderation."

What? So you're saying that the words 'I look like a fairy' are bullish!t? Ugh, my heart hurts. What a person who can't appreciate something.

"Looks like it's your birthday soon."

Hearing Claude's words, something suddenly occurred to me. I also stopped moving the cutlery I was holding. Actually, for a princess's birthday, so far my birthday has always passed without celebration. Lily and Felix were the ones who were always enthusiastic about it and organized a small party to celebrate my birthday. Of course, I never once asked them that. The reason was that I was embarrassed because it was a birthday party 'for me' (not the real Athanasia).

Even in my previous life, parties were about gathering the children whose birthdays were that month, then we shared cake. Besides, birthdays were the day we would leave the orphanage, so birthdays couldn't possibly be a happy day for us. Moreover, the older I get, the busier I become working part-time and earning a living, so I don't have time to throw a birthday party for myself. And now, I have no other choice but to adapt to this strange situation.

If the reason was my own reluctance, maybe Lily or Felix could be more strict about throwing a birthday party for me. But, they couldn't do it for other reasons that were clearly heavier than the reasons I had. Because my birthday is the day my mother, Diana died.

I found out about this a few years ago, and it was said that on that very day, Claude committed a bloody massacre at the Ruby Palace. Only then did I think, maybe it had something to do with Diana's death. Besides, should you say 'It seems'? Even though, when I was 5 years old, you never called or met me for several days on my birthday.

Because of that, all this time, my birthday parties have always been simple with Lily and Felix. It seems they are very worried about it, but I really don't care. Instead, I just want to throw a birthday party for the three of us. Haha. It's hard for me to react every time it's gift-giving time. No, of course, I got a great gift! I'm happy because it seems like they both really like me! But, still, I felt embarrassed because I wasn't used to all that.

However, after I said that once, Lily and Felix assured me wholeheartedly that 'Princess is a child who deserves to be loved, and today is a day of joy and gratitude because the most precious Princess was born into this world. So we should celebrate'. I immediately became speechless because of all that honey (sweet words). Maybe they think I'm a poor daughter who feels guilty every birthday because it's the day her mother died. Sob. That is not what I mean!

"What do you want?"

Then, on my 7th birthday, Claude asked me that question for the first time. Of course, I thought, 'No. Has this guy gone crazy?' But Claude looked serious. Come to think of it, at that time, ever since I returned from the life-and-death crisis, her attitude towards me had changed. Right at the moment when Claude, for the first time talked about birthday gifts to me, I felt the bells of excitement ringing in my head. Do you understand what I mean? I raised both my hands! Yeeyyyyyy!

But I really don't know what to ask for. Honestly, I wanted to ask for something like gold or something else as funds for later (my imagination is the limit. Haha.) Even so, I'm not that stupid to say something like that. Hmmmmm. Instead, I asked Hannah and Seth who once served me at the Ruby Palace to return as my maids. Claude seemed surprised when I asked that, maybe he thought I would ask for a slightly extravagant but cute gift that children might like like pretty jewelry, clothes, shoes, or dolls. Not just Claude, even Lily also widened her eyes and said that she didn't expect me to still remember Hannah and Seth. Hearing those words, I said 'They are the eonnis who gave Athi chocolates and made flower crowns together when I was still at the Ruby Palace. How could I forget them!?' It's only been 2 years, you'd think I'd forget them. I still remember when Lily lied to me saying that Hannah and Seth would be back tomorrow!

However, when I said that, Lily actually cried. No, what's wrong with her?! That expression, it was the same as the expression she had when she misunderstood that I wanted to see my mother. The same thing happened to Felix. Once again I broke out in cold sweat when I saw their gazes, they were like looking at a lonely child who was thirsty for affection. Only Claude said sarcastically, 'You must be getting fat because you eat chocolate so often.'

And the next day, Claude sent Hannah and Seth to me. They both cried when they saw me as if they had never expected that I would call them again.

But, it wasn't just the two of them who came to the Emerald Palace. Behind them, there were several other maids, and after a while, various chocolates from all over the world were presented before me. When I heard that all of this was sent by Claude, I laughed out loud. Seriously, his words and actions are very different.

Moreover, when I was 9 years old, I kissed(?) Claude for the first time. Even though I had done everything I wanted, I still couldn't bear to kiss him because I felt embarrassed, but that day, I did it sincerely. That's right, Claude! Claude! Then, after that, when Obelia's Vassal State came to pay tribute, Claude gave me the key to Obelia's Treasure Vault —where the tribute was kept as a gift. Claude gave it to me with a face that seemed to say lazily, 'I took this thing before coming here. It's troublesome, so you just take it'. That's when I realized what true happiness was. It was at that moment, a brilliant light flashed behind Claude. I felt incredibly touched, and I rushed towards Claude to hug him, showering him with kisses on the cheek. Claude's expression at that time is still clear in my memory. Hahahaha.

However, Athanasia's tragedy begins in the novel when she is 9 years old, so Claude's actions are very meaningful. Wasn't it when Athanasia was 9 years old, she secretly went out of the Ruby Palace and met her father, Claude? At that time, Athanasia developed a deep affection for Claude, but Claude just passed it by, ignoring Athanasia. But now, I got the key to the Treasure Vault from him. Yaayyyy!

"If there's something you want, you can tell me."

However, Claude's eccentricities didn't stop there. He often gives me gifts, not only on my birthday, it feels like, he is compensating for what he couldn't do for me in the past. So last year, for no reason, he built a library for me inside the palace.

"Or something else, that you want to do or want."

Ehehe. Looks like I've worked really hard for today. So, what more do I need, huh?

"Whatever gift you give me, I'll definitely like it!"

I smiled broadly at Claude with shining innocent eyes. How commendable was Claude, who gave me a gift without me asking for it. Sob. These tears filled with emotion couldn't stop flowing.

Of course, Claude has a different side from the outside, just like Kim Cheom-Ji* who gave seolleongtang to his wife. And Jeom-Soon* who gave potatoes to his farmer son. Isn't Claude just like them? 'I picked this thing up on my way here, and I have a lot of it, so I'm going to throw it at you like a gift. Take it'. What a surprise!

T/N: Kim Cheom-Ji is the main character of the classic novel Lucky Day (운수 좋은 날) by Hyun Jin-Geon. In the novel, Kim Cheom-Ji is described as a man who has a dream of getting money so he can buy seolleongtang (beef bone broth soup) for his wife. He is a character who really loves his wife but at the same time, he is also a perpetrator of domestic violence who likes to curse and beat his sickly wife.

T/N: Jeom-Soon is one of the characters in the classic novel Camellia (동백꽃) by Kim Yu-Jeong. He is a friend of the main character who later turns into a villain because of the potato incident (he offers potatoes to the MC, but the MC avoids him).

"You don't want anything else?"

Hah? But, what kind of strange reaction was this? Hearing my words, Claude narrowed his eyebrows slightly. It was a facial expression he made when he didn't like something. Don't tell me, you're already lazy about choosing a gift after several years of doing it……… So, you want me to make it clear or………

"Actually, I'm happy just spending time with you, Dad. Hehe."

Did you just broach the subject of gifts? So, now I say that you don't need to prepare any gifts. Even so, Claude's facial expression did not change. Uwaaaaa. That doesn't seem to be the case.

“……Eat.”

Claude still looked annoyed and he just told me to go back to eating. Sob. What, what's wrong? What happened to him? I'm just saying that my birthday will overlap with debutante's day, so I have a lot to think about, so I intend to make things easier! I didn't know why Claude was in such a bad mood, so I silently stared at him in confusion all through dinner.

***

"Didn't His Majesty ask about birthday gifts?"

On the way back to the Emerald Palace, Felix smiled at me. After 6 years had passed, he was still in his position as my Guardian Knight, only now I was big enough to be carried by Felix so we just walked hand in hand. I stopped in my tracks and looked at Felix who was beside me. Oh, I think I know why Claude is acting like that!

"Have you told His Majesty what gift you want, Princess?"

"Yes. I just said to Daddy that whatever gift he gives, I will like it."

"Even so, isn't there anything else you want?"

Hearing those words, I frowned and pondered. My palace is already filled with gems that Claude sends me in a box once a month, and the key to the Treasure Vault that Claude threw at me saying it was troublesome so I could take it, the library he made for me, and last year he made me a lake in my palace. When I said that I liked the Emerald Palace because the roses in the garden were so beautiful, he built 4 other Rose Gardens. And when I said that I liked the angel statues (male gender) in the Garnet Palace, he brought dozens of angel statues (female gender) to the Emerald Palace. He also gave me many other things like dresses and accessories that were difficult to care for.

"Hmmm. I don't know."

Wow, Oh my! Of course, I can feel full of all that! Ehehehe. I don't know if I need anything more because I already have so much in my mouth, I never thought the day would come when I could taste something like this! Hehehehehe!

While I was struggling with all those thoughts and emotions, somehow Felix looked confused. After clearing his throat several times, he changed the topic.

"Princess, your debutante won't be long now. Hm, how do you plan for the first dance?"

Debutante? It is said that it is customary for nobles to have their first dance with their fiancés because nobles' life partners have been determined since they were small. However, if there is no fiancé yet, I heard that family members such as unmarried brothers or cousins can also be partners for the debutante. And somehow a father rarely becomes his daughter's debutante partner and has the first dance with her. Hm, is it because of the perception that debutante is a stage for teenagers? But, even if that's not the case, can you imagine, Claude dancing?

"Can't I dance with you, Felix?"

Hearing the words I said without any hesitation, Felix actually coughed as if he was choking on something. If it was Felix, I would get face because Felix is a member of the Duke Family, his face is also quite handsome, and he is also young. Besides, he is still single. Isn't he a very suitable person? Considering how pitiful the original Athanasia was in the novel who was confused because there was no one to be her partner, isn't this an extraordinary thing?

"I-I had my first dance with you, Princess."

"Eh, if you don't like it……"

"Of course, it's an honor! No. How could I possibly do something like that."

However, for some reason, Felix seemed panicked and confused. This was the first time I saw him like that, so I felt very strange.

"Ummm. Isn't there a better match for you than me?"

After a while, when Felix said that, I felt even more strange. Uhmmm, of course, I can't force Felix if he doesn't want it, but should he try to avoid it in that way? I feel like I've been betrayed......

"There are still a few months left, so I will think about it again."

After saying that, I frowned slightly and walked towards the Emerald Palace.

***

"Blackie! Ah, you're here!"

"Woof, woof!"

Waaaaaahhhhhh, my beautiful Blackie, looks cute today! As soon as I entered the Emerald Palace, Blackie, who was lying on its stomach on the grass and wagging its tail, ran to greet me. Now, Blackie's size had grown so much that if it lunged at me like now, my body would stagger. Of course, my Blackie is still cute even though it's all grown up! I sat down on the grass without hesitation and enjoyed my happy reunion with Blackie. Ugh, but Blackie… Oh, wait a minute! I saw Hannah who happened to come out —it looked like she was going to feed Blackie, and I laughed when I saw her. She also laughed helplessly and shook her head as if she couldn't do anything anymore.

"Princess, your clothes are dirty."

"Hmph, what's wrong with being dirty? Hmph!"

"Woof!"

Blackie, who was showing its belly and shaking, got up in an instant and ran towards Hannah. Oohhhh, Blackie! You, do you like chocolate better than me? Hey! Look, it keeps wagging its tail!

“Blackie, you ate well today.”

Hannah was happy to see Blackie eating heartily. Ever since she came to the Emerald Palace, she had been the one in charge of Blackie. I had known her since the Ruby Palace, so I knew that Hannah would definitely take good care of Blackie.

In fact, some maids were secretly afraid of Blackie who had grown rapidly since last year, but Hannah was not like that. Hmmm. I've known how good Hannah is since Lily forbade me from eating chocolate, Hannah is a big-hearted eonni who gave me chocolate in secret. Of course, Seth wasn't afraid of Blackie either, but for some reason, it seemed like she didn't really like animals. Ughhh. Moreover, Seth is the only eonni who is warm to me! But she was also warm to the other maids. She is a sweet eonni. Ughhh, Blackie has grown up, but it still acts so innocent! It seems that what that Bast#rd said was true, Blackie is similar to me.

"Hannah, have you had dinner?"

"Not yet. I'm waiting for Sir Robane and also Lilian to eat together."

Uwaaa. My Emerald Palace is truly harmonious!

"Then you must be hungry. Come on, Hannah and Felix, hurry up and eat. Lily and Seth are waiting."

You have to eat well to get strong energy! Hmmmm! I forgot that I was a little annoyed with Felix, so I finally let the two of them go inside with a big smile on my face.

"Do you like chocolate or me?"

Woof, woof, woof.

"What? You like me more than chocolate? Why am I asking the obvious question?"

Woof, woof. Ngggi, nggi.

I was left with Blackie, I made sure that no one was around and played alone, answering questions for myself. However, Blackie didn't even pretend to listen to me and just hid its face in its feeding bowl. Ah, no matter how precious it is, can't you prick up your ears for me just once? Ugh. I can't say that you're not cute. I reached out to pet Blackie, who had finished eating and was now licking the remaining chocolate in its bowl.

"Oh!"

Suddenly, the tip of my finger that was touching Blackie trembled for a moment. What was static electricity? Geez. I'll have to comb Blackie's hair later.

“Blackie, do you want me to shave your fur?”

"Nggiii! Nggiii!"

"Oh, okay, okay."

Let's just say I won't shave your hair! Ah! I stumbled backward again! After that, I rolled around on the grass for a while and finally returned to my room.

***

"Princess, get some rest."

"Good night, Lily."

I smiled and said good night to Lily who had just left the room. Now that I'm alone here, I ponder what I will do from now on. Maybe this is because I just showered, and my whole body feels dry. I'm tired, it would be perfect for me to sleep soon. But my hair wasn't dry yet, so I decided not to sleep straight away. Besides, usually, Lucas would secretly come here to play because he was bored.

At first, when that Crazy Person suddenly appeared out of nowhere in the middle of my room, I really thought my heart was going to fall out. He would appear whenever I was alone, and I would be very surprised every time he appeared! But now I'm used to it, the human ability to adapt is extraordinary, yes. Hehehe.

"What am I going to do until I fall asleep?"

Maybe I won't cry today. Previously during dance practice, he disappeared in a bad mood. No, what did I do to make him just disappear after untying my shoelace? I grumbled in my heart for a while, then I walked to the bookshelf and took out a book called 'Count X Countess'. I thought about reading books in my free time. I won't wait for that Crazy Person! I don't know how much time has passed. After a while, I heard a familiar voice above my head.

"What are you doing alone on a full moon night like this?"

“You can't see, I'm………… Don't bother me.”

It turns out he still comes here! I thought he wouldn't come today because he was in a bad mood! I was sitting on the carpet, I stopped talking and looked up at him, then tried to get up. Today, for some reason I felt bored reading a book, so I just relaxed for no reason.

"Uwaaaa!"

Ouch, my feet. Looks like I've been practicing too much dancing today. Unlike before, Lucas seemed to be in a good mood. After all, one had to be consistent in everything, but Lucas was someone who couldn't do that well. Hmph. Now he didn't even help me, he instead stepped onto the empty sofa and lay down.

6 years ago, Lucas looked like a 10-year-old child when he first came to this Imperial Palace, and now he looks a little more mature than that time. Apparently, Claude wouldn't have let him into the Emerald Palace if he looked more mature. I wondered if I should do something about it, but Lucas laughed at me and said, 'Don't say things you don't know.'

"You're playing with Blackie again."

Ugh. You da#n ghost! I was surprised by the words that Lucas suddenly said to me.

"Uh, no?"

"Do not lie to me."

My lie was so obvious that it made Lucas laugh. From the start, I didn't think I could lie to him, but it's still annoying! It felt like, this guy was always watching me when I was with Blackie for a long time, he was like a ghost. Every time I was with Blackie, the magic power in Blackie would enter my body little by little. And because it was a dangerous thing, I could only play with Blackie for a short time.

"You're 14 now?"

"You mean, my birthday? Oh, yes. My father..."

Lucas suddenly asked about my birthday, and that reminded me of what happened to Claude earlier. I also told him what happened earlier at dinner. Then, Lucas showed a cold reaction to me when I told the story, then he laughed at me.

"You're stupid, aren't you?"

Hah!? Why did he call me stupid!?

"The answer was obvious, but instead you acted insensitively. From the start, there was only 1 thing you had to say."

What? What do you mean by 'the answer was obvious'? I'm still confused.

"Sometimes, you're always like that with your father."

Then, I was shocked by what Lucas said as he looked at me with a look as if he was teaching disadvantaged children.

"Of course your father wants you to have your first dance with him."

………Is that a new type of joke? Claude want to dance with me? Why?

"Well, it seems you don't know. At debutante, you didn't dance with your father."

"It's very rare, but there are things like that."

"People don't do it because people think it's too old-fashioned."

"Yeah. And your father wants to do that too old-fashioned thing."

Hah!? Oh my? Hah!? What?

"Is that true?!"

"Just look at you. What are you studying for? Instead of being smart, you've become stupid like this."

My facial expression became very, very strange, and Lucas laughed at me as I lay lazily on the sofa. Well, come to think of it, I guess Felix hinted at that too! Huh, is that serious? Even Claude wants me to have my first dance with him at debutante? Finally, the words Lucas spoke made me feel a truly indescribable feeling.

"I told you. Your father loves you more than you think."

***

The next day, as usual, I sat together with Claude and drank tea together. The bright morning sunlight colored his eyes with the light of fresh vegetation.

"Daddy."

He was drinking tea quietly when I called him, then his gaze turned towards me. Seeing that gaze, I smiled brightly.

"Soon it will be my birthday."

After hearing Lucas' words last night, I thought that something was strange. Haha. To think that Claude would want to dance with me at debutante later!

"And my debutante will be soon too."

When I thought about the conversation I had with Claude and Felix yesterday and also noticed their reactions, I was very surprised because what Lucas said, seemed to be true. Hearing my words, Claude looked at me as if he was saying, 'And then?' I don't know what he's thinking just from his gaze like that. So, I decided to say it openly.

"Actually, I've been thinking about who will accompany me to my first dance."

In an instant, Claude's eyes turned gentle. I turned my gaze towards Felix who was standing next to me, as if Felix was saying, 'Princess, that's right!' and looked at me as if encouraging me.

"Because it is a meaningful day, so I want to ask for help from people close to me…………"

Hmm, so that's how it is, huh? Yesterday, after I heard Lucas' words, I had an epiphany. But now, after seeing the two's reactions, I can really feel it. Haha. This made it difficult for me to hold back my naughty smile which kept trying to come out. I smiled innocently as if I didn't know anything about this situation.

"Isn't Felix the most suitable person? Dad, what do you think?"

"Hah!"

I immediately heard Felix's hurried breathing. He looked at me as if he didn't understand what I was talking about. However, there was a reaction that caught my attention more than Felix's reaction.

Clink.

Finally, Claude put his teacup on the table and opened his mouth.

"Felix, that's not bad."

It was a calm tone of voice, the same as usual. But I could see his eyebrows twitch for a moment when he heard my words earlier. I laughed out loud in my heart, then I replied to his words.

"Isn't it?"

"Do what you want."

Felix's opinion is unimportant. Well, in the first place, there was no way Felix could refuse Claude's orders, and even without Claude's orders, he wouldn't be able to refuse my sincere request. Of course, if Felix really doesn't like it, then I won't force him to do it. But, there was absolutely no possibility for Felix to reject my idea of him being my partner in debutante and having my first dance.

"Wow. Actually, yesterday I asked Felix. And Felix also said that there was no one else more suitable than him to be my partner."

"P-Princess."

"Still, I was curious about your opinion, Daddy. So I asked."

Felix's face completely turned white when he heard my words. He seemed a little surprised too, but when I remembered what this oppa had done to me all this time, it was nothing!

"Your Majesty, I apologize for my impudence. But I……"

"That's good. Some time ago, Felix also talked about your debutante, and he insisted that it was an important day and only happened once, so you should decide who will be your partner very carefully."

"Yo-Your Majesty."

"Why are you making an expression like that? You don't look happy."

"Of course, I thought that it was a very proud thing for my family for generations…… Ugh. Your Majesty! It's not like that."

Felix who was standing next to me, was sweating coldly. Apparently, as usual, Felix told Claude about my debutante first. Moreover, right now, Claude looked at Felix coldly, and then he muttered a little,

"Pride for the family from generation to generation. Of course, it should be."

"I'm also happy because I can go to the Debutante Ball with you, Felix! Hehe."

Even I couldn't look at Claude, so I said that to the pale-faced Felix.

'Your father loves you more than you think.'

Hmmm. I remembered the words I heard last night, and I smiled secretly. For some reason, I wanted to tease them both a little.

***

"Come and practice dancing with me!"

"Don't want to."

A few days later, I shouted loudly at Lucas, but he remained lying on his back on the vast marble floor of the Emerald Palace while biting an apple he got from somewhere.

"Every day you feel happy and say that it's okay to practice dancing alone because it's fun. So why do you suddenly want to involve me now? I don't want to."

"I think I would dance with my father at the debutante."

I smiled broadly and placed my hands on my hips triumphantly. After I said that I would go to debutante with Felix, Claude subconsciously became in a bad mood. Day by day, it became increasingly difficult for me to hold back my laughter every time I saw Felix, who was getting thinner every day. Of course, Claude never said that he wanted to be my partner in my future debutante, but doesn't it all seem like that? Haha. I never thought that the time would come when I would play tug-of-war with Claude like this.

"But, looking at it from anywhere, aren't our heights different? Hmm, later I'll wear high heels. So, I have to practice dancing diligently so that I don't step on his feet."

Hmmm. I don't want to shorten my life any longer. So, no matter what happens, I have to practice dancing diligently until debutante day. Hearing what I said, Lucas laughed out loud as he finished the half-eaten apple from his mouth.

"So, you want me to change my appearance to an adult form and practice dancing with you?"

"Yes!"

I'm such a genius! I mean, because I can think of this idea.

"Oppa, at that time, weren't you the same height as my father?"

Of course, the last time I saw Lucas in his true form was when I was 7 years old, and I remember that he was quite tall, although that memory was a little vague.

"Well, even if it's not that, you can definitely change your height, right?"

After that, Lucas looked at me with a 'Huh?' expression. Of course, I knew he would be like this. So, I have prepared words of praise for him!

"Mr. Lucas who is the most powerful mage in the world and the most handsome person in the universe, you can do that very easily. Right? So, can we do it? Hm?"

I looked at Lucas with sparkling eyes, giving him a cute expression that would usually be well-received by others. Then, I wonder if Lucas choked on the apple he ate earlier. But then, Lucas averted his gaze from me and snapped his fingers.

Snap!

"I'm busy, just use this."

Then, a white paper that looked like a human appeared in front of me!

"What's this?"

"What do you mean? That's your partner."

"Why is my partner like this!? Every day, you always roll around on the carpet, what are you busy with? You actually make nonsense like this!"

"I'm busy breathing every day."

That's all you do, you lazy a*s!

But, it seems Lucas really doesn't want to dance with me. I wasn't surprised because I already knew him, and it wasn't just 1 or 2 days. In fact, he was my partner for dance practice 2 years ago when Madame Pompadour first became my dance teacher. The height difference between this Crazy Person and me is really suitable for dance practice as if we are a couple blessed by heaven.

At that time, Lucas also learned to dance, but he was stunned by Madame Pompadour's frightening momentum (dance steps), in the end, he still danced with Madame Pompadour on the Dance Floor. And I was very, very, very amazed when I found out that the Crazy Person was very good at dancing.

But, since then, he has not liked dancing. So, after 2 or 3 dances with me, he would disappear somewhere every time Madame Pompadour came to the Emerald Palace. Ouch, then is he really not going to help me now? Even so, Lucas has always complied with my requests, but, I think right now, he really doesn't want to do it. Geez.

"If it's like this, then at least draw the eyes, nose and mouth."

In the end, I held the paper doll's hand and grumbled many times. The paper doll was also holding my hand in a scary way! Ugh, Lucas always making all kinds of weird things. But, every time I see it, it's absolutely amazing.

"Hmm, hmmm, hm."

After that, the room was only filled with the sound of my humming and also the sound of my footsteps hitting the floor, produced by the heels of my shoes hitting the floor. Ah, by the way, this paper doll is very tall. This is different from when I trained with Lucas before. It's harder to adjust the steps, but the movements are so smooth for a paper doll! Somehow I have a very bad feeling!

"Aahhhh!"

Maybe because of the large height difference, in the end, I fell to the floor looking as pathetic as a crane whose wings were torn while chasing a poisonous snake. But, Lucas saw me trip and fall, he laughed at me as if he had been waiting for this to happen, which made me angry.

"Are you sweeping the floor? Are you playing around?"

"Hah! What is this? Hmph. There are no joints! If I fall, it can't hold me up! Very soft. Very weird! And it looks like an Egg Ghost*."

T/N: *Egg Ghost or Dalgyal Gwishin (달걀귀신) is a creature in Korean mythology. It is called the Egg Ghost because this ghost has a face that is flat and smooth like an eggshell. It is said that Egg Ghosts are humans who did not have children during their lifetime. Because they had no children, none of their descendants performed honorary ceremonies for them, so they lived in the afterlife as cursed poor spirits. Egg Ghosts will appear and kill humans who see them by squeezing the life out of them.

When it comes to dancing, I feel very proud of my abilities. And now, you humiliate me like this! In the end, I fell on the floor and screamed. As for Lucas, his expression seemed to indicate that I shouldn't say such cruel words. He says,

"That's a mental attack. It got hurt."

"Huh? Isn't it a doll? Does it understand my words?"

"Of course not."

"……"

How fun is it for you to play pranks on other people! I got up from where I fell a little annoyed. Lucas was still looking at me while giggling.

"You need music? You want me to do it?"

Snap.

In an instant, majestic musical sounds began to flow. This is music of comparable skill to a first-class orchestra. I don't know where the sound came from, but it was all done with Lucas' magic, so if I started arguing and asking him, it would just make me die of curiosity.

"This music won't be heard outside the room, so dance as much as you want, Princess."

Aaahhh, annoying! I hate you! Then, I felt something tap my shoulder, then I turned around and saw that it was a paper doll. Ugh! Why are you suddenly holding my hand!? Why are your arms around my waist!? In the end, I returned to the center of the Dance Floor guided by a strange paper doll. But, this doll flutters and moves so fast that I can't concentrate! A few moments later, I was dancing with this paper doll again and I turned around to grumble at Lucas.

"Can't you make me a doll that looks like a real person?"

"You think there's something I can't do?"

As I thought!

"Then make it. If possible, make a doll in the form of a handsome oppa."

"Don't want to."

However, Lucas firmly rejected my request.

"Why don't you want to?"

"I don't know why, but I hate it because it makes me feel bad."

There's not even a particular reason. This bast#rd always had his way with him, and sometimes he could be very grumpy like now. If you can do it, why don't you do it?! Hmph. After dancing 2 more times, I lay down on the cold marble floor. The paper doll continued to flutter before my eyes, and the majestic music continued to sound, making it unsuitable for the current situation. Lucas always laughs at me whenever I stumble, but he doesn't laugh at me when I'm trying to concentrate! Oh, no! Seeing me like this, Lucas finally stopped the sound of the music that was echoing throughout the room. Then, in an instant, everything fell silent.

"It's finished?"

"I'd rather ask Felix to train with me."

"You're also secretly cruel, aren't you."

When I heard those words, Lucas clicked his tongue and said, 'Do you really want to make that knight bleed until he dies?'. If you're worried about Felix, then make a proper human doll! Don't even make paper dolls like this.

"Ah, this is tiring."

While listening to Lucas' words, I stared at the ceiling as if I was looking at a faraway place. The Banquet Hall in the Emerald Palace was never used, so it was used as a Dance Hall, a place for me to learn dancing. However, after all, this was the Palace Hall, the place where the Princesses lived, so it was truly a very beautiful place.

Will I invite other people to come here after I make my debut in high society, and have a party here, or something? At first, whenever I saw something sparkling like this, I always felt amazed, but now I'm used to it to some extent. I'm amazed that I can get used to the life of a princess like this, even though it's not inspiring. Maybe because I was a commoner in my previous life. Of course, gold and jewels are valuable objects wherever I am. Yes, that is an unshakable truth in life!

Not seeing anything, I just stared at the ceiling while lying on the floor. Come to think of it, my schedule has been really busy lately, ah, geez, I'm a busy person. Then, suddenly, I remembered the story Hannah told me while she was combing my hair last night.

"It seems Izekiel is back."

"You mean, Izekiel Alphaeus?"

As I muttered to myself, Lucas immediately reacted to my words. Izekiel was someone who almost became my friend, but Lucas took his place instead. Apart from that, Lucas and Izekiel never met in person at the Duke Alphaeus Residence 6 years ago, so I didn't expect Lucas to remember about Izekiel. Apart from that, Hannah said that news had spread at the palace that Izekiel had returned from his studies in Arlanta. It was said that the Young Ladies had been making a lot of noise about this for several days. I heard that Izekiel and Duke Alphaeus came to the palace to greet Claude. Rumor has it that he graduated from Arlanta Academy earlier than he was supposed to.

At that moment, memories of the past suddenly came back. From that day, 6 years ago until now, embarrassing memories that sometimes pop into my head, without realizing it, are what make me enthusiastic about learning! Wow. Now that I'm 13 years old, will I be beaten again by Izekiel in terms of knowledge? That's not possible.

"It's been 6 years since then, I wonder how he grew up."

Exactly, I wonder how smart he is. Graduated from Arlanta Academy earlier than expected. Approximately how many ruling parties and opposition parties are interested in him? But, during these 6 years, I haven't just been playing around.

However, the words I muttered made Lucas snort and ask,

"Are you interested in Albie's son?"

"Don't say things like that. For the past 6 years, I've been reading books, eating, sleeping, and thinking about embarrassing things all the time!"

My dark history! Since that day, I've been counting the books I've read like crazy over the past few years and the amount of studying I've done.

"If you're curious, you can come and see for yourself."

Come and see for yourself… Huh? What did you just say? Now, I couldn't understand what Lucas was saying, so I turned to where Lucas was lying. Right after that, I could see red eyes staring straight at me. Geez. I know that face. That was the face when this Crazy Person was about to do something!

"You should have said it earlier. It wasn't difficult for me."

But, for some reason, Lucas' gaze with his dangerous smile looked a little different from usual, and before I could understand what he meant, he frowned and smiled sweetly.

"You don't need to thank me, this is a special service for you."

Snap!

Whooosshhh.

Suddenly, a strong wind hit me, and the ribbon that tied my hair came loose and flew away. I was confused by the situation that happened to me, but I immediately realized the situation that was happening.

"What's this?!"

Why am I floating in the air?! At that moment, I heard a voice that sounded like an evil voice in my head, so I immediately raised my head.

"That's good. Coincidentally, I'm bored too."

"What the 'That's good' mean!? What the hell is this?"

"Then have fun, my friend."

“Hey, this…… Huwaaaaaa!”

Just when I wanted to see his red eyes, I had already started to fall.

"You bast#rddddddd!"

My long hair mixed with sunlight, fluttered in the air and glittered like broken glass. When I fell, I cursed that Crazy Person in my heart! You Crazy Bast#rd! Bad guy! Crazy is really a fitting nickname for him! Huwaaaaaa! Mommmmmmmm!

Bruk!

But this time, when I fell to a certain extent, my body seemed to float a little, and after a while, it was as if something was holding my body steady. Aaahhhh! This time feels less scary than 6 years ago! Is it because I'm heavier than I was then, and I'm experiencing a greater gravitational influence? Huwaaa, I don't know. Lucas, you damn bast#rd!

"…………Are you alright?"

But at that moment, an unfamiliar bass sound sounded above my head. My hand covering my face twitched for a moment. Oh my. Come to think of it, this time, who caught me? Hah?

Silently, I opened the gap between my fingers and peeked out. Then, somehow, a familiar yet unfamiliar face entered my field of vision. The man acted as if he had been waiting for this to happen for a long time. Silver hair that swayed gently in the wind and golden eyes that dazzled —like sunlight. It all looked similar to what I had in my memories.

However, his beautiful appearance that was somewhere between a boy and a man, the deep and mature-looking eyes that were quietly looking at me, as well as the sturdy body that supported my body firmly, all seemed different from the little boy in my memories. I forgot to breathe and could only stare at him with wide eyes.

"You always surprise me every time we meet."

Then, he smiled gently at me and whispered,

"I missed you, Miss Angel."

Angel. Miss Angel…… The words that had just penetrated my eardrums remained lingering, ringing in my ears like an echo. What kind of situation is this? What should I do now? Who is this man? Why are you smiling at me? It's been a long time since I had a serious mental breakdown like this. Meanwhile, this man actually gave me a smile like a flower that was so charming. Oh, my goodness. Wait, my eyes! Can you give me time to defend myself humanely? What should I do if you suddenly emit a deceptive glow like that!?

By the way, his appearance and the voice that said the word 'Angel', this guy is Izekiel? But, what is this? Where is the child I used to know? This time, I fell from the sky because of Lucas, and now Izekiel caught my body. For some reason, this was the same as what happened 6 years ago, but this time it was different, he stood up and caught my body without shaking in the slightest. For a moment, just like a startled rabbit, I opened my eyes wide and directed my gaze to the face I encountered, and then I realized that my body was still in Izekiel's arms.

"Ugh."

Oh, no. I feel embarrassed because I'm being carried in this princess-style sling! Besides, aren't you too close to me?

"P-Put me down."

As soon as I realized this fact, I thrashed violently, but the arms supporting my back and legs only flinched once under my thrashing, and then he didn't move an inch, just like a rock. No, what is this? What are you actually doing? I was a little stunned.

"I'll put you down."

In the end, I was able to step on the ground as I wished after he put me down. And immediately, after he did that, I hurriedly backed away as if I was wary of him.

"Aahhh!"

But the problem is these da#n shoes. Overall, the high heels I wore today to practice, and the heels on the shoes were very high because I adjusted them to Claude's height! Just like a scene from a shoujo manga, my ankle sprained and I tripped. Then, Izekiel caught me with amazing reflexes.

Chirp, chirp.

The sound of birds chirping passed by my ears. Right now, I'm breaking out in cold sweat because Izekiel is holding my arm. Whoaaaa. But, I was relieved that he caught me! Just like a heroine in a teen drama or romance comic, the Male Lead grabbed my waist to capture my body, and right at that moment, it felt like pink flowers surrounded us! And then, the flowers bloomed, Uwaaaaaa! I really feel very embarrassed because of this situation!

Izekiel, why can you grow so fast like this? Wow, this is embarrassing. I pretended to be as casual as possible and brushed his arm away. Then, naturally, Izekiel took his hand off me and I stepped back.

"Are you alright?"

“I-It's okay…………”

Ugh, w-what is this? Da#n. In an instant, that formal language appeared out of nowhere. By the way, is he 16 now? 17? Around that age, right? So, he's younger than (real age) me, right? Besides, 6 years ago, he was an innocent child who acted shy and his ears would immediately turn red when he said the word 'Angel'. No, but why do I feel strange now? It feels like I met a man I've never seen before.

"Of course."

When the sweet low bass sound, which seemed to have undergone a sound change, flowed into my ears, the strange feeling became even more clear.

"You have grown up since 6 years ago."

N-No. Not commensurate with your growth. I almost didn't recognize him! Izekiel who was standing in front of me had a body that was so tall that I couldn't see him well because the sunlight and the green color of the leaves seemed to be shining on him, he looked at me and smiled faintly.

"But I think you can still recognize me with just one glance."

Danger! Danger! There was a beep in my head. Izekiel Alphaeus is the male lead of a novel! Wow! [Izekiel's 'magic' skill has been activated! The effect is unusually wide!] It felt like a notification window that appeared in front of me!

However, in this situation, rather than fluttering when I saw Izekiel, my main priority was how to deal with this situation. I'd rather not be in an awkward situation like this. Ugh, if only the person in front of me right now was 10-year-old Izekiel. What should I say to this adult Izekiel?

I rolled my eyes slightly and looked up, but all I could see was the bright blue sky. Ugh, where did that Crazy Person go?! I'm sure, right now he must be laughing at me panicking from somewhere, right? If you want to send me here, then tell me what I should do! But, no matter how he managed to ignore my embarrassment, the smile on Izekiel's face slowly began to fade.

“I thought it was possible, but…………”

Then, it seemed like there was some emotion gradually spreading in her eyes, and it made me startled.

"Don't you remember me?"

Disappointment and bitterness that rippled like waves appeared in his brilliant golden eyes, but he didn't dare show it out, and even he was resigned to holding those emotions deep inside him. That expression made me change my mind because I thought I would just ignore it.

"No. Of course, I remember you, but you……"

In fact, 6 years ago, when I just went home and ignored Izekiel's request to wait for him, it remains in my memory. Uwaaa! Even so, I didn't expect that I would meet Izekiel again in this way. Lucas, you are really…!

"I see. You remember me."

As soon as I said that, Izekiel's expression slowly started to change, so I felt very strange. Eh, doesn't it feel like there's a spring breeze blowing gently from somewhere? The change in facial expression doesn't have much of an effect, but the atmosphere feels very different……… But why do you always look happy every time you meet me?

"Emmm. I'm sure you didn't tell anyone that you met me here… Right?"

"You don't need to worry. I didn't tell anyone."

"Alright. Then, at that time and now, our meeting is a secret."

As soon as Izekiel said that, I immediately stopped using ambiguous formal language toward him and started talking normally. He also asked me to talk comfortably. Moreover, this is a private place, not a public one. And, I am an angel……… Cough, cough; My hands and feet shriveled up. However, I don't like this. Somehow, now Izekiel seems to already know that I am a princess, in fact I think 6 years ago, he already knew that too…… Even if that was the case, I would still say 'no', so for now, I will keep pretending in front of Izekiel. And for some reason, I think this person in front of me understands what I want.

"You don't need to tell me."

As expected, Izekiel promised me that he would do what I wanted. After that, I felt embarrassed again. I have nothing more to say, this situation feels heavy, I want to run, run from here! This is too cruel! I really want to escape somewhere! My instinct to escape, which had been dormant for some time, now started to run wild. I want to get out of this place immediately, my feet itch because I want to do it immediately. Izekiel, who may or may not know what kind of person I am, opened his mouth as if he wanted to say something. But then,

Sruk.

"Izekiel? Are you there?"

Ugh. It was a clear, clean, and pure sound, just like rolling jade marble. Now, if Izekiel had a fantastic appearance after receiving the male protagonist buff, then that sweet voice that was like drops of honey had also received the main protagonist buff!

However, as soon as I thought about that, my eyes started swaying wildly like a paper boat hit by a hurricane. Why is it that every time I meet Izekiel, someone else always comes?! What kind of boring show is this!? At that moment, Izekiel, who had turned his gaze towards the sound for a moment, now immediately approached me.

"Please forgive my impudence."

Whether it was the smell of perfume or something, as soon as I felt a subtle cool scent tickle the tip of my nose, he carried me up again in a princess-style sling. Oh, God. What kind of situation is this?

"I will take you to a quiet place."

It seemed like Izekiel was worried that I might meet other people and that would cause problems because I obviously came here by sneaking. Geez. By the way, how can he be so handsome from this angle? In fact, if you lower your gaze a little lower, you will see a firm v-line face and a nose that is so sharp, isn't that how it should be? This is the Male Lead! I had *spilled water on Izekiel's face earlier, then I realized.

T/N: *I think this is a parable, like she's 'drooling' over Izekiel's good looks.

But, wasn't the person who called you Zenith? In that case, shouldn't you go meet Zenith now, that way all the problems will be resolved, right? Then, I'll summon that Crazy Person and return to the palace, and everything will be perfect!

“Just leave me here and go…………”

"If it's like that, then you'll disappear without another word."

Stab! I felt my conscience stabbed for no reason when I heard the words Izekiel said calmly. Even so, at that time I never promised and agreed to wait for him. Why, why do I have to feel guilty like this?

"Oh, no. If we don't go now, we'll be late. Izekiel…"

Then, the voice as sweet as honey called Izekiel's name again. It seemed like they had promised to go somewhere together.

"Hey, it seems like it would be better if you left me here. You promised to go with her, right?"

However, Izekiel continued walking while carrying me and making a sound, "Shh." as if telling me to be quiet. Oh, come on. What is this? Why did this kid become so strong after he studied abroad? This is weird! Actually, compared to when he was a child, 6 years ago, he looked more like the Izekiel I knew in the novel. However, at this time he continued to walk silently, passing through the densely growing trees around him. He headed in the opposite direction from where Zenith's voice came from.

"Strange. Even though he said he would come here."

I could hear the wondering voice, and then the rustling sound disappeared. I peeked over Izekiel's broad shoulders in the direction where the gentle voice had disappeared. This time, Izekiel's face looked calm. It made me not understand what Izekiel was thinking.

"This is the place I go when I want to be alone."

Just when I wanted to ask where he wanted to take me, Izekiel's steps stopped. Then, he dropped me off at the mouth of a hill filled with flowers.

"I am the only person who knows about this place, so this is my secret place alone."

"Umm, I feel guilty for being in this place."

"Why?"

Y-You asked why? Don't you feel like you don't like it when other people are in your secret place? But, Izekiel asked as if he really didn't know, so I could only stay silent for a moment. He stared at my face for a moment, as if he couldn't understand my words, then he turned his head away from me and looked at the scene around him.

"I think you'll like this place."

Indeed, as Izekiel said, I do like this view. The mouth of the sloping hill is covered with beautiful white flowers, this place is very beautiful. But, you think that I will like this place? Those words, it feel like you think of me every time you come here. Haha. I think I've been living as a princess for quite a long time, to the point where I'm stricken with a disease that has no cure. The princess's illness. I heard it is an incurable disease!

"I was surprised and didn't expect you to appear in front of me suddenly."

"That's, I…"

"Yes?"

"N-No. It's okay."

In my heart, I really agree with Izekiel's words. Appropriate! Exactly right! I was also surprised because suddenly I fell in front of you. This is all because of Lucas! That bast#rd suddenly dropped me into the Albie's nest like before, then, what kind of strangeness is this? Why can the same thing happen again?

"I would be happy if you came here to see me."

Izekiel opened his mouth again, so I turned my gaze to the middle of this flower field.

"But apparently, that's not why you came here."

When I saw his face smiling faintly at me, I felt a little bad again.

"I don't know why you came here, but if you want to, you can keep doing it. So……"

Then, Izekiel seemed to hesitate, so he stopped continuing his words. His gaze was looking at my face, now he turned his gaze to the side. He seemed hesitant. But, because he was a handsome man standing in a field of flowers, his appearance was very cool. Well, wherever the male lead is, he will always look cool. Anyway, it seemed like he didn't intend to open his mouth anymore, so I opened mine.

"It seems like you promised to go with the person who called you earlier, so I think it would be better if you go……"

Huhuuu. Actually, I really want to make him leave here, somehow. When I was 7 years old, I could talk to him without any problems, but now, especially maybe later I will meet him again at the debutante………… After thinking that far, I glanced, looking at Izekiel's face.

"It's okay. I don't have to go with her."

His appearance from the side is still the same as 6 years ago. But my heart couldn't feel the same as when I first saw him. According to the original story in the novel, my debutante day was also the day of Zenith's spectacular performance. Maybe this time, Izekiel will appear as Zenith's partner along with Duke Alphaeus, just like in the original story. But, Izekiel's eyes were looking straight at me right now, making me speechless.

"Actually,"

After a while, Izekiel whispered in a low voice.

"Until the day I left for Arlanta 6 years ago, every day, I always went to the place where I met you for the first time."

He said unexpected things.

"Then, every time I come back to Obelia every 6 months, I always,"

In his voice, there was something that made me have to hold my breath to focus, paying attention to what words he would say next.

"Until today, I finally got to see you again."

I felt like he had said something very, very strange, especially since this situation was also really strange. Of course, I understand that our last meeting, seemed quite impressive for him who was still young, but that alone couldn't explain the attitude and words he was saying right now. Now he looked at me with an unwavering gaze, and he whispered calmly. I couldn't hold myself back anymore, I asked him.

"Why?"

"I wonder why."

When Izekiel answered my question with words that were like a question to himself, I closed my mouth again.

"It was only a short time, like a dream in the middle of the day, but, that really short time has stolen my attention."

A low voice tickled my ears, the sound carried by the gentle breeze. I couldn't take my eyes off the golden pupils that were staring directly into my eyes. Until finally, his hand lifted, slowly moving towards me.

"Really,"

I don't know what makes my mind diverted like now. Was it because of the whispers made by the wind, or was it because there was a warmth on my face, a warmth that was soft like feathers?

"I wonder why?"

When the hand brushing my wind-tangled hair touched my ear, I flinched and my fingertips trembled. White flower petals fluttered like white and pure snow before my eyes. And in front of me, there was Izekiel who looked at me with an unwavering gaze. Then, at a certain point, there were small ripples that began to appear in his golden eyes. It was almost at the same time that the warm hand moved away from my ear, and a smile that I didn't know the meaning of, started to appear on his face.

"It doesn't matter."

Izekiel looked at me and opened his mouth slowly.

"Next time, I..."

Whoosh.

Before he could finish his words, the flower bed filled with white flowers as well as Izekiel's smile, slowly faded from my eyes, they just disappeared like a mirage. It was like time passed so quickly, just a few blinks of an eye. Before I realized what was happening, I was already in my palace. This is the Banquet Hall in the Emerald Palace decorated with beautiful interior walls.

"Ah!"

And in front of me now, there is the Crazy Person that I have been looking for! After being under the influence of the flower field for some time, I immediately came to my senses as soon as I saw Lucas, I came to my senses and immediately pointed at him and shouted.

"Ah, you are really! Before teleporting, you have to give notice first. Why do you send people here and there as you please? You should say………… Hm, why is your expression like that?"

E-Ehhh?? Somehow his expression wasn't like usual. Why is he making such a scary face? Even though I didn't do anything wrong. I was so shocked that, without realizing that I had wanted to scold this Crazy Person, I immediately stopped my anger. But, this Crazy Person actually said nonsensical words.

"Am I upset now?"

……Is there a certain trend nowadays to answer a question with another question? Why are you even asking me that?

"Y-Yeah. You look like that. I guess?"

"Yeah. I think I'm in a bad mood right now."

No, I'm the one who should be in a bad mood. But why are you the one who bad mood!?

"Why are you in a bad mood?"

But, because this Crazy Person seemed even angrier than usual, and he also had a really brutal expression, I couldn't get angry. Moreover, Lucas, who was currently looking at me with a cold expression on his face, now just disappeared from before me. Huh, what is he doing? I really don't understand, Izekiel was in front of me, then suddenly he used teleportation to bring me back here, and now he's just gone.

"W-What's wrong with him? Did he eat something wrong?"

But since Lucas was gone, I could only mutter to myself while looking at the empty room.

***

"Hmmm."

Right after I just got out of the bathroom, I saw my reflection in the mirror. My cheeks, which still had some flesh remaining (chubby), looked red, maybe because I still felt hot because I had showered with warm water. I constantly changed angles to observe my face, I also touched my slender chin.

"Hmmm?"

As time went by, I started to look more and more like the Fairy Eonni in my dreams. The bridge of my nose that descends from the round forehead and draws a thin line, and the light golden thin eyelashes that are long and curled at the tips, even my hair that waves like a waterfall, and other things.

If there was one thing I didn't resemble with her, it was my gem eyes which were a cool ocean blue, but they would change to a pale turquoise color when exposed to light.

Apart from that, maybe because I've been eating and living well all this time, my body is a little fat. Even so, I still had the fresh curves of a girl slowly emerging from the innocent body shape of a child, my skin also glowed like white jade. This is the benefit of being born with a golden spoon! Ugh. I couldn't look in the mirror anymore, so I turned to something else.

"Lily, Lily."

And after a while, I asked Lily who was making my bed.

"Am I beautiful?"

"Of course, you are the most beautiful in the world."

Then, Lily, who was making my bed, immediately answered without hesitating for a second. It was like the speed of Snow White's Stepmother's mirror when asked, 'Mirror, Mirror, who is the most beautiful person in the world?' and the mirror answered, 'Queen, you are the most beautiful in the world!' As expected of Lily! I felt better, so I turned to her and smiled broadly. Lily also smiled when she saw me like that. Athanasia does look like Diana, so Athanasia is a beautiful person.

"I'll comb your hair before you sleep."

So it's natural that Izekiel likes Athanasia.

"Hehe. Are you happy?"

"Um. I like it every time Lily touches my hair."

I thought of Izekiel who I saw in the flower field a while ago. Even though I never dated in my previous life because I lived a difficult life, I'm not so stupid that I don't understand the meaning of Izekiel's words and actions. Hmm, of course, for a while, I felt like I was a real princess.

"I also like it best when I touch your hair, Princess."

Right? Izekiel has the Heroine, Zenith. Not only is the main protagonist of this novel, but Zenith is also a beautiful, cute, sweet, and even kind person. It's impossible for other people not to be attracted to her. However, there seem to be some changing variables in the story. That variable was Lucas who sent me to Duke Alphaeus' Residence 6 years ago. That's right, isn't it? Wasn't that a vague childhood memory of Izekiel? And in those beautiful childhood memories, I played a role similar to Izekiel's first love when he was little. That could be because Athanasia is someone who resembles my favorite Fairy Eonni, the very beautiful Diana! Hmmmmmm! Even after thinking that, shamelessly, I nodded my head.

"Princess, if you move suddenly like that, your hair will get tangled."

After all, I never thought that Izekiel would seriously like me, but I guess there's nothing bad about this. If the story in this novel was originally designed to make the protagonist happy, then things would definitely move in that direction, as it were. It wouldn't hurt for me to be liked by Izekiel. Well, I guess I'll just think about that later after debutante.

"Lily, isn't Lucas coming today?"

"Mr. Mage must be busy. I don't know for sure, but he must be very busy because he is the Imperial Mage."

Busy with what? Lucas doesn't have anything he really has to do, the proof is that he often comes to my palace. Lucas could appear in front of me whenever and wherever he wanted, but he still pretended to be a child and enjoyed playing the role of the 'Young and Handsome Genius Mage'.

In fact, 3 years ago, he was already holding the title of the Youngest Imperial Mage. 3 years ago, when I was 10 years old, Lucas hadn't changed his appearance since he first entered the palace, so he still looked like he was 10 or 11 years old. I don't know the details, but maybe that person's body doesn't have a system that makes it age day by day like a normal human.

However, at that time, Lucas said that he was bored with the life of being my sidekick, so he took the Imperial Mage Exam on a whim and finally passed as the youngest. At that time, he laughed heartily, laughing at our Imperial Mages because they were all weak. Ugh, he's really annoying.

However, apparently, Lucas' age as recorded in the official records was 4 years different from mine, but somehow, after that, the record changed - he became the same age as me. And what's even more disturbing, no one questions that fact. No one had the slightest suspicion that Lucas was younger than before. It then dawned on me that this bast#rd was using magic on everyone.

Come to think of it, even when I first met that Crazy Person, didn't he once cast magic on the people in the Ruby Palace, including Felix and Lily to prevent other people from finding me? Even the Imperial Mage who volunteered to be his guardian, they didn't seem like they were related or even knew each other. But everyone, no one felt strange about it.

'I use magic? So what?'

With ease, Lucas did all of that without regret. Apart from that, easily, he also admitted that the magic he used was a little stronger and that perhaps it would have side effects for someone who was mentally weak. Aaahhh, thinking about it again makes my anger rise.

After that, I bothered him a little. You won't know how much I shouted at him to stop using such dangerous magic. At first, he even pretended not to hear my words. Then, after some time had passed, he answered that he understood that. And as far as I know, Lucas has never used that magic on anyone around me, at least since our meeting that day.

"Mr. Mage is truly an extraordinary person at such a young age."

Of course, even though everyone already knew that he was the same age as me because he had already used the magic before he promised me. Haha. It's clear that the Crazy Person pretends to be a child because he likes to be praised by the people around him because he is a great and smart person. Sometimes, I myself feel embarrassed whenever people think I'm a little genius!

"Of course, he's not as great as you, Princess."

Like now for example. I just giggled while looking at Lily's reflection in the mirror, smiling like a mother gently combing her child's hair. Ah, I have to sleep soon. Lily also has a strange habit, she likes to make me think highly of myself!

"Lily, I'm sleepy."

"Oh my, it's already this hour. You'd better hurry to sleep, Princess."

I got ready to go to bed after getting rid of my thoughts about Lucas, which worried me because he hadn't shown his face since I met Izekiel that time.

***

"Dad, Dadddy."

I called Claude in a very gentle voice. Today, since the first time I saw him, I smiled at him full of cuteness.

"I'm very worried about the debutante that will be held soon."

But this is not the time to dress up! I lowered the tips of my eyebrows and began to give off a pitiful impression, like a puppy that had been caught in the rain. Then Claude, who was languidly stirring the tea in his teacup, raised his head and looked at me. For some reason, he drank another tea instead of the lippe tea he usually drank. But, as if he wasn't satisfied with the tea, he only put the cup of tea to his mouth once, before he finally just stirred it like now.

I said to him,

"What if I make a mistake because I'm nervous?"

"It's okay to be wrong."

Claude answered calmly.

"I've been practicing dancing really hard, but I'm still worried."

"There's no reason to worry, and if you make a mistake, then I'll blame Felix for accompanying you incorrectly."

Wow, as expected of the Vengeful Claude! I won't miss this opportunity to throw a bomb at Felix! I tried to calm my fluttering pupils, and I continued acting like a little princess worried about her debutante.

"Still, everyone will make fun of me."

"Such words will be their last will."

Ugh. Whoever speaks ill of me, Claude will make those words their last words! This is a little touching. Ah, no. Of course, the method is a bit extreme! But, he knew how to pretend he didn't care to make his daughter feel better. Claude, you have really improved a lot. Aaahhhh.

"Don't think too much about it. If you're really uncomfortable with it, then you just have to dance once and then leave."

Claude said it as if to say that a debutante was no big deal. When I saw Claude's face, I remembered my goal for today. Alright, let's end this tug-of-war here!

"Actually, I… Dad, I want to hold hands with you on the debutante day."

I said it hesitantly, but I muttered as if I said it with certainty. Then, Claude's hand, which had been moving slowly over the teacup, suddenly stopped.

"I want to have my first dance with you, Dad."

The longer the push-pull lasts, the more toxic it becomes. I wanted to bully Felix and Claude a little because of the unpleasant things I've experienced so far, but I think I should stop now.

"Dad, I want you to be the first to congratulate my debutante."

I noticed Claude, he had stopped stirring the teacup and now he was looking at me. Here he is!

"But, Dad……"

I played with the teacup in front of me with both hands and made as serious an expression as possible.

"You wouldn't like something like that, would you."

Little Athi really wanted to go to the Banquet Hall with her Father, but she felt sad because she thought that her father would not like it. Huhuhuuu. Claude's hand holding the teaspoon twitched for a moment. Ohoho, looks like it's coming soon.

"That's why I asked Felix for help. But……"

I don't know if Felix will be angry if he hears it, but Felix isn't here at the moment, because Claude has forbidden Felix to get close to me since I threw the bomb last time.

"I really want to go with you, Dad."

"Debutante is an event that happens once in a lifetime."

Srek.

Every time I said a sentence, Claude's hand twitched slightly. Her expression still wasn't much different from before, but I could clearly see the twitching. I smiled faintly as if I had said something useless to deliver the finishing blow, and then I would pretend as if nothing was wrong.

"Hehe. I can't be too greedy, right?"

"……"

"Even if it isn't you, Dad, if it's Felix, he would still be by my side and help me. I will try to do my best to become a daughter that you can be proud of."

No.

Claude put down his teaspoon, lifting his teacup again. He tilted his glass, drank the light-scented liquid, and lowered his arms again.

"Hmm. If that's what you want."

And when Claude opened his mouth, acting as if he couldn't win, I smiled in my heart. Ta-da! Here he is! Fresh fish! Claude is the freshest fish I have ever caught!

"There's no reason not to make it happen."

"Is that true?"

As if I had been waiting for those words, I immediately became happy and asked him again to be sure. However, as if it was a very unconscious reaction, I immediately asked carefully.

"But, Dad. You don't really like dancing in places like that, right?"

"All I need to do is have one dance with you, right? It's nothing big."

Claude had regained his composure now. He picked up the teaspoon again and moved his wrist as if he were stirring the liquid in a teacup.

"Is that okay? I heard that recently it's rare for daughters to come to debutante with their father. The nobles will definitely talk about that, right? I'm worried you will be offended by that."

"Who would dare talk about what I did? No one would dare say such useless things, so you don't need to worry about it."

As expected, he truly was the owner of this heaven and earth. Even he snorted indifferently as if worrying about such things was completely useless. Yes, you are the best. I asked again to confirm.

"Daddy, you are really going to the Debutante Ball together with me, right?"

"I can't refuse it if you want it that much."

He said that he would go with me as if he had no choice but to be a magnanimous person because I wanted him to be. In fact, he said all that sincerely and in earnest. This was the reaction I expected after all the years we've spent together, but isn't he really cute? Should I give him carrots?!

“I do hate noisy places like that, especially……”

"Daddy!"

I got up from my chair and ran towards Claude who was sitting across from me. Then I hugged his neck.

"Really? Really? Dad, are you really going to be my partner that day? Are you going to dance with me too?"

"That—"

"Wow, I'm so happy! Oh, how about this, I really like it. This isn't a dream, right?"

He couldn't say anything as I babbled loudly while still hugging his neck. It's true that I purposely didn't give him a chance to talk, but right now he seemed both flustered and shy. He was an expressionless person, therefore, it was clear that right now he didn't know how to react to my sudden action.

"You can't change your mind. You promised me, right?"

I looked at him with a bright smile as if I couldn't control myself because I felt so happy. Then, Claude stared at me silently for a while until he finally said slowly,

"Yes, I promise."

Hooray! There he is!

"Thank you. Daddy, you are the best dad. Hehe."

As a final attack, I kissed Claude's cheek. In this way, the long-awaited problem of a partner for the debutante was successfully resolved. Then, when I looked down at the cup of tea that Claude had been stirring, I saw that it was empty —there wasn't a drop of liquid in it. This made it even harder to hold back my laughter.

I thought Felix would be a little disappointed, but as soon as he heard my words, his face, which had been white for a long time, now brightened up, he even said, 'Thank you, Princess!'. That makes me a little embarrassed. Ok, it seems Felix has been suffering worse than I thought. But, when I remember how I suffered because of his careless behavior! Come on, I'm a vengeful woman. Haha.

"May Obelia's prosperity be with you."

And I met a white-haired man on my way out of the Garnet Palace.

"Lord Alphaeus, long time no see."

Do you want to be fed by me again? But today, I don't want to see you. Even so, no matter what, I still smiled and greeted him. Because now I'm older, I've long abandoned the nickname 'Albie'. Felix who was next to me also greeted Roger Alphaeus. By the way, it seems like this person meets me very often. Isn't that strange? Isn't it? During this time, I sometimes met other nobles in front of the Garnet Palace from time to time, but didn't they just give me curious looks and didn't bother to talk to me?

"Even today you are still beautiful, Princess Athanasia."

Sheesh. Even at times like this, he doesn't forget to give lip service.

"Hehe. Coincidentally, I came to the Palace earlier than the meeting time. Thanks to that, I was able to meet you, Princess."

Uwaaaa. Those were words with a dark aura. The word 'coincidence' he used was not suitable, the appropriate words for this situation were 'planned' or 'manufactured'.

"Nice to meet you, Lord Alphaeus."

So, what do you want to say?

"Princess, if I'm not mistaken, your debutante won't be long now."

Erm, soon it will be my debut time. I laughed nonchalantly when I heard his words, but I wanted to have a good image so I let him continue speaking.

“Have you decided who will be your partner……”

Is he asking this question because he wants to show off to me? On that day, you and Izekiel will bring Zenith. So, you want to find out first who my partner is? Zenith's partner is Izekiel, the man who is said to be the best bachelor in Obelia, but 'your partner must be worse than my son, isn't he?' What does it mean? So you want to make me feel weak? Haha. I understand that, but it's still annoying.

After asking carefully, Roger Alphaeus remained silent and waited for my answer, but I didn't see him as a good person like that. It was because I knew the story content of <Lovely Princess>, so I decided to give Duke Alphaeus a big beautiful candy.

"Of course it's determined."

I smiled broadly at Duke Alphaeus and spouted some nonsense at him.

"Father has agreed to go with me."

Let's just say we are *Davichi. My partner is the Emperor of this country! I felt very fresh because I had just finished talking about it with Claude. If my partner is the Emperor of this country, then there's nothing more to say, right? You don't have anything to say, do you? Beside me, Felix smiled and nodded with a very happy face. It seemed that his heart was relieved because all the problems he had suffered had been resolved. At that moment, Roger Alphaeus' trembling voice pierced my ears.

T/N: *Davichi (다비치) is a pop ballad or pop rock duo from South Korea consisting of vocalists Lee Hae-ri and Kang Min-kyung. The name "Davichi", comes from Korean which means "shining above all".

“You mean…… His Majesty?”

He couldn't hide the nervousness in his eyes, as if the words I said were surprising.

“His Majesty, he will truly be your partner, Princess……”

Yes, of course, no wonder he behaves like this. This man definitely knew everything about Claude's personality. Looking at his eyes which were shaking non-stop with embarrassment, I showed a shy smile and said humbly,

"Of course, I asked for it first."

After all, I have to save Claude's face (image), so it would be better if I made things clear first. But, why do you look uneasy, Albie? Then, Duke Alphaeus muttered to himself as if he was still shocked by my words.

“Princess, you mean that His Majesty accepted your request happily?”

Finally, Roger Alphaeus smiled broadly at me with a calm face again.

"Haha. That's amazing. I already knew that, but it seems His Majesty really loves you, Princess Athanasia."

He said those words in a calm tone of voice, but I found that his eyes showed a hint of caution as if he was thinking about something. What do you think it is? This man scratched his head. Then, I couldn't help but be surprised by the words he said next.

"Wow, that's a shame. In fact, if you haven't decided on a partner, I would like to ask if you would like to pair up with my son."

"Lord Alphaeus's son?"

"I don't know if you've heard, but my son has returned to Obelia after he finished his studies in Arlanta."

This time it was my turn to be speechless. What did this old man just say? If he doesn't have a hidden son (illegitimate child), then is the son this person is talking about Izekiel?! You mean, you're trying to make Izekiel my partner?

"It seems I was one step too late."

No, wouldn't Izekiel come to the Debutante Ball together with Zenith? What about Zenith? Why are you even trying to stick Izekiel on me?

"Lord Alphaeus, was it your son who made that request to me?"

"Princess, it is a position to help you. Of course, it would be an honor in itself for my son."

So that wasn't what Izekiel wanted. I thought, just like when I was little, he wanted to make Izekiel my friend, and this time, this Albie just wanted to prank me and trap me. So, if I get caught, then I'll take it as not a bad thing. Oh, my goodness. Should I say thank you because this not only closed one road on the Zenith route, but also helped me? The fact that this devious guy cast his nets towards me, that meant to him, I was still a fish he didn't want to miss.

"I'm also curious, maybe because I've often heard stories about your son from you, Lord Alphaeus. We can meet at the Debutante Ball later."

"Yes, he would greet you at the debutante."

Duke Alphaeus and I had a final conversation with smiles that hid our true feelings, and then we parted ways —he gave me a friendly greeting. Wow, this bast#rd.

"Princess, you always fail to get acquainted with Duke Alphaeus's son, right."

"Yes."

Ugh, I was a little offended when I responded to Felix's words. Because what he said was only half true. I've met Izekiel unofficially! But, officially, I always tried to postpone my meeting with Izekiel. I didn't want to do what Albie wanted, so I always rejected him —in fact, in many cases, it was Claude who rejected him. Even so, will this end on my debutante day?

'It doesn't matter.'

'Next time, I…'

I remembered my last meeting with Izekiel. He smiled faintly and whispered to me in a place filled with white flower petals flying like snowflakes.

"Ah, it's Mr. Mage."

Suddenly, Felix's voice next to me woke me up from my thoughts, I shifted my gaze. The Emerald Palace is used by princesses from generation to generation, actually, this palace was once a palace for concubines. In short, before it became the Emerald Palace, this palace used to be the Ruby Palace. This place is less isolated, so it's not uncommon to see other people on our way to and from Garnet Palace. And that includes nobles like Albie and the Imperial Mage. For a moment, I forgot about my surroundings and shouted loudly to call out to the person with dark bluish-black hair, whom I saw from afar.

"Lucas!"

The servants passing by heard my shout and each of them stopped doing their work to turn to look at me. So, there's no way that Crazy Person didn't hear me. Then, Lucas, who claimed to be a kind and polite young genius mage —except when he was alone with me, of course, he would turn to look at me. His unwavering red eyes annoyed me a little. So I laughed and mocked Lucas a little, who hadn't appeared in front of me lately.

"Have you been very busy with work lately? Hasn't it been very difficult to see you lately?"

But he only answered me humbly, as if he didn't notice my intentions.

"As a worker who receives a salary from the Imperial Family, how could I slack off."

Ughhh. What did this salary thief just say? I couldn't help but make a silly expression at Lucas' shameless nonsense.

"Yes, that's right. That's how it works, at least as someone working for the Imperial Family, you have to work with that mindset."

Felix nodded in admiration at Lucas' words, but still.

"As you said, Princess. I couldn't meet you because I was busy with work for a while. I'm relieved that you seem to be in good health."

That's ridiculous. If you really care about me, how could you not show your face to me these past few days? Even though all this time, you always appeared in my room and spent time with me.

"My apologies, but I have to go to the Tower now."

"What? You're really busy?"

However, as soon as I saw his face, I started to wonder whether he should leave immediately because he was really busy with something he had to do.

Inheriting the will of the Black Tower's Mage who was the strongest mage on this continent, the Imperial Mage of Obelia named their residence 'The Black Tower'. Because there are few mages on this continent, even in Obelia, so they are treated well. And, although I don't know much about it, it seems that Lucas is a very famous mage among them. Therefore, after becoming the Youngest Imperial Mage, the other mage had been looking for Lucas for 2 months non-stop.

I gave him a look full of doubt and curiosity, but Lucas just stared at me silently, and I wondered what he was thinking. What is it? Are you trying to pick a fight with me again after we met for the first time in a few days? I wouldn't lose a staring contest either. Of course, I didn't do anything wrong, so I met Lucas' gaze confidently.

"Wait a moment, please."

Then, he clicked his tongue, then suddenly stretched out his hand toward me. The warm body temperature touched my forehead, and immediately after that, I felt like something was missing from my body. Hah? What are you doing?

"You're not a child, but you're wearing this."

A few moments later, with a sneer, in Lucas's hand was a leaf of unknown origin. Eh, this is strange. For some reason, since he touched my forehead, I feel like my body has become lighter. However, my doubts didn't last long because Lucas immediately turned away from me.

"I'm very busy, but I'll make time to visit you. It seems like the Princess misses me a lot."

"Haha. You're just kidding, it's actually the opposite."

I snorted at Lucas who was smiling annoyingly.

"Princess, let's go back."

"Okay."

After that, my steps back to the Emerald Palace felt lighter than when I first left there. For some reason, I feel fresh as if I've finished all the homework I put off for today.

***

Time passed quickly.

"Happy birthday, Princess."

"Happy birthday."

"Our Princess is already 14 years old."

"Ah, I'm really moved."

I can't believe that it's my birthday, I'm just studying and practicing dance as usual. Actually, I wasn't too impressed with my birthday, but the 4 people in front of me, namely, Lily, Felix, Hannah, and Seth. They all looked at me with expressions filled with gratitude.

"It's not much, but it's a gift I prepared with great care for you, Princess."

"Here, me too."

"I have prepared this too, Princess."

"Please open."

I untied the ribbon on the box feeling a little awkward amidst people who had faces full of excitement.

"Wow, beautiful."

Felix's gift was luxury shoes that he could wear as a debutante. It was a white shoe decorated with crystals, this shoe had a beautiful shape like Cinderella's glass slipper.

"It suits you very well, Princess."

The gift from Lily looked like a jewelry box, but when the box was opened, clear music could be heard, it turned out to be a music box. On the music box, there is a carving of a beautiful girl made of gold, even the edges of the box are embedded with beautiful colorful gems. Seth gave me a hair clip with sparkling beads around a red gem in the middle, Seth said he made the hair clip himself. Lastly, Hannah's gift was a soft black doll that looked like a miniature Blackie, and Blackie was wagging his tail and panting next to her as if it really liked it.

"I love it all! Thank you so much."

After opening the gifts in turn, I smiled broadly at them. Even though it has happened many times, receiving gifts every time I have a birthday, this all feels strange to me. But, at the same time, I also feel very grateful.

"Princess, meeting you was the greatest happiness in my life."

Lily smiled gently and whispered, and the other 3 people opened their mouths in turn.

"Once again, I sincerely wish you a happy birthday, Princess."

"I will prepare an even better gift for your birthday next year."

"Princess, I hope you will always be happy and filled with good things."

"Woof!"

Blackie with a red ribbon tied around his neck —the same ribbon I used to tie my hair, it rubbed its head against my waist as I sat on the chair.

"Thank you to all of you."

I was so embarrassed that I couldn't help but laugh. Haha.

"Well, this is a cake specially prepared for today."

"Wow! Come on, hurry up and eat, Lily's special cake!"

"I also made it, Princess."

"Yes, Lily and Hannah's special cake!"

"The decorations on this cake were made by Seth."

In short, my birthday cake was amazing! Every year, it gets bigger and bigger! The sugar and chocolate levels also go up! And I've gained weight too! Haha. Still, I can't stop eating it on a day like this!

"It's delicious! If you all don't eat it quickly, I'll eat it all!"

As I always do on my birthday, I shouted at the 4 people who were looking at me with sad eyes. In the end, together with Blackie, we aggressively ate the chocolate cake.

***

"Good night, Princess."

"Sleep well, Lily."

Wow, I'm full. I always eat too much on my birthday. It's all because Lily's special birthday cake —ah, no, Lily, Hannah, and Seth's special cake is so delicious —it's like a drug*. Aaaahhhh.

T/N: *I don't know if this is a common joke in South Korea or what, but yes, you definitely understand that the 'drug' referred to here is drugs. In this novel, the author mentions this several times, indeed the author does not bluntly write the word 'drugs' but uses a more subtle word, namely, 'medicine'. Or, I just misunderstood because I'm stupid in the Korean Language...

"Princess Athanasia."

Lily didn't immediately leave the room, she came to my bedside and stroked my head gently.

"Princess, you are Obelia's treasure, not just mine."

Those are the words she always says to me before I sleep on my birthday.

"You are a very valuable and important person to me and everyone."

At times like this, she was truly like a mother. Of course, I've never had a mother before, so I don't know.

"Thank you for being here today, Princess."

Seeing Lily's smiling face while holding my hand and whispering, I closed my eyes and smiled.

"Me too. Thank you for being by my side, Lily."

On my birthday, I know that they always try to lighten my mood. No matter how much I said that I was fine, they wouldn't believe it, so in the end I chose to smile like a fool, but it wasn't because I wasn't grateful to them —the beautiful-hearted people who cared about me.

Lily gave me a goodnight kiss on my forehead. Then, she quietly closed the door and went out. I lay quietly in the quiet room, but I couldn't sleep, so I turned towards the window. Faint moonlight poured into this room. Looks like my birthday this time ended like this again.

"Though, I think this time will be different."

In the end, Claude didn't come to see me on my 14th birthday. Every time this happens, I feel very strange. Of course, I didn't feel disappointed in Claude or sad and depressed like other people thought. It felt like it was the same as when I saw the damaged portrait in Claude's room. As a child, when he made me dream of Diana, or when I kissed his cheek while hugging him for the first time, I could see the helpless look on Claude's face for a moment.

"I don't like this feeling."

It's like, somewhere in the corner of my heart feels restless, as if I'm secretly trying to peek at the back of a coin that I shouldn't know, and I feel guilty because of that. No, I still don't know how to define this feeling that cannot be expressed in words. However, sometimes I think that I should...... Not see all those moments.

Those moments, everything I saw, there Claude really looked like an ordinary person. Not a cold-blooded person or a person without tears as I thought, but I feel that he is an ordinary person, an ordinary person who cries over sad things, laughs at happy things, gets hurt because of someone, and loves someone. If this were me in the past, then I would definitely feel happy because it turns out that Claude has a human side, I can use that to survive. But, the me now, is not like that.

"Oh, I don't know."

I don't know, I don't know, I hate complicated things like this. However, it would be really awkward if Claude came, but at the same time, I also think that it would be better. Yes, I think so. I turned my body in the opposite direction.

"What that you don't know?"

At that moment, a bass sound was heard from behind.

"Why are you so late?"

I wasn't even surprised to see him, I turned towards him —I was still lying on the bed. Then, Lucas who was standing with his back to the moonlight came into my eyes.

"You think I'm a person who doesn't have a job?"

I said it clearly, but I knew he was coming because it was my birthday. Of course, there weren't any special gifts or anything like that, but for the past 6 years, Lucas had never left me alone on my birthday night. If he's coming, he should bring me a gift. But, there was no way this guy had that kind of common sense. So I asked him to give me a birthday gift, and I always ask for the same gift on every birthday.

"Let's go see Blackie."

"You didn't hear me, right? I might eat it, you know."

"Okay, okay. Let's go meet Blackie."

Even so, I was no longer afraid of him. Maybe it was because I knew that his saying that he would eat Blackie was just bullsh!t. Lucas frowned when he realized that his threat didn't work. And finally, as I expected, Lucas snapped his fingers with an annoyed expression.

Whoosh.

And as soon as I opened my eyes after closing them, we were already in the back garden —where Blackie lived.

"Blackie!"

Blackie, who was standing upright on the grass, sensed our presence, it twitched its ears, and after it realized that it was me who came, it immediately ran over with its thick fur waving.

"Woof!"

Day by day, it grew rapidly. Blackie, whose height was already as tall as my waist, threw itself into my arms, and I fell on the grass.

"Oh my, Blackie did you miss me? Hehe."

"Woof!"

I felt happy, so I rolled around on the grass together with Blackie and laughed. For teenagers, the most fun thing is to carry out secret deviations at night without the knowledge of adults. That's true, isn't it? Lucas grumbled at me, but I ignored him and continued to bury my face in Blackie's jet-black fur.

"Hey, I'm dying from the cold. What the hell are you doing?"

"You can cast warming magic."

No matter how warm the weather was during the day, the night breeze was indeed cold.

"Da#n, really annoying."

With a snap of a finger, warmth began to circulate throughout my body. I smiled shyly at Lucas, expressing my gratitude. Oh good. You did this so that I could continue to be with Blackie. The warm body temperature seeped deep into my body and made me feel sleepy. Is this sleep therapy with animals? It doesn't seem like that, but I wonder what it is.

"Hurry up and go to sleep. You're going to get dizzy because you were tossing and turning like that."

This kid. I can't believe he talked like that when I was sleepy while playing with Blackie. Hmph. Even so, I couldn't say anything because Lucas was the one who would take me back to the room if I fell asleep without realizing it.

"Has my Blackie been eating well lately? You seem to have gained weight."

"Woof!"

Well, that's good because it's becoming even more cuddly. I hugged Blackie and looked up at the night sky filled with stars. Covered by warmth, I became increasingly sleepy. I opened my mouth a little impulsively.

"Finally I will debut at the Debutante Ball."

"I know."

"I won't make a mistake, right?"

"Did your father tell you not to make mistakes?"

"No."

"Then what's the problem?"

This kid. He doesn't have good, sincere intentions when someone talks about their worries. Still, his attitude made me feel strangely relieved.

"You train until the soles of your feet are on fire all the time. If you weren't stupid, then you could do it."

His indifferent voice faded in the swaying grass.

"Don't be noisy, go to sleep."

"How noisy am I?"

"I've given you Blackie as you wanted, so quickly close your eyes. You should sleep, I want to sleep too!"

“That's really unfortunate……”

Ah, seriously. Since it was my birthday, I wanted to play with Blackie longer than usual. Ugh. But I couldn't argue with him because I was the one who asked him to take me out because it was my birthday. I had to go back to my room after rolling around with Blackie.

I closed my eyes with some dissatisfaction and felt the gentle wind tickling my forehead. The smell of grass that brushed my nose and the warmth that enveloped my entire body, I gradually became comfortable. For some reason, I usually don't sleep well on my birthday, but now my eyelids were sinking by themselves as I tried to continue hugging Blackie. However, sleep therapy with animals is the best. Ehehehe.

"Good night, Lucas."

Just before I fell asleep, I mumbled goodnight to him. Somehow, after a while, there seemed to be a small sound that passed by my ears, but the sound didn't reach my ears because I started to sink to the surface of the water (fall asleep). I fell asleep while hugging Blackie.

Time passed and the Debutante Ball finally arrived.

"Princess, hurry up. We don't have much time."

“Umm, Seth………… Didn't I just wake up?”

"Today is an important day. So no matter how early you wake up, it still won't be enough!"

Even though my vision was still blurry because I still wasn't fully awake, Seth urged me to get out of bed. No, I mean, the Debutante Ball starts at sunset, right? Then why do I have to get ready early in the morning like this? But, not only Seth, all the other maid eonnis were the same. Hah? Why do the older maids, who usually stay quiet when I'm around me, act as if they don't exist, now they act as if they're in battle mode?

I was taken to the bathroom in a daze by the maid eonnis. And at this moment, a painful time like torture began!

"Princess, please close your eyes."

"Please straighten your legs a little more."

"Relax your body and lie down comfortably."

Usually, these maid eonnis, they would help me to bathe, but now they really took care of me from head to toe. They say something like, this is a fragrant flower petal that is good for beauty, this is a medicinal herb that is good for treating fatigue, this is an oil that is good for beauty, treating fatigue, improving blood circulation, and so on. They applied all that to my body, they said it was good for beautifying my skin and body.

Of course, this isn't the first time I've been treated this way, but no matter how many times I've experienced it, I really can't get used to it! Besides, it was an important day, so I felt even more embarrassed because more maid eonnis were clinging to me than usual. Wow. I hate being treated like this, all this makes me embarrassed. I hate this.

But, despite my embarrassment, the maid eonnis had to moisturize my face with steam, so they asked me to close my eyes, relax my shoulders, and they also massaged every nook and cranny of my body so I had to stretch and straighten my legs a little. The older maids kept asking me not to be anxious and so on.

It seems that all this time I have underestimated a princess's debutante.

No matter how much and how long I dressed up to go somewhere, at most it was just to meet Claude at the Imperial Palace which was less than 30 minutes away from the Emerald Palace on foot.

Of course, I had to dress up just to see Claude, but now this was my first debut before the nobles, that's why my maid eonnis was full of panic right now.

Only today did I realize how great a maid's job it was to prepare my debutante. Of course, it took a very long time and hard work for them to match the dress, shoes, and accessories that I would wear today. Not long after waking me up in the morning, Lily immediately left and left Seth and Hannah to take care of the rest, while she was busy supervising the other maid eonnis to help me prepare. I thought Lily would be the one to save me after a long shower, but apparently, I was wrong! It seems that today, the Emerald Palace has eonnis with high combat power. Huhuuu.

"I want to eat again."

"You can't eat too much, Princess."

"But I'm hungry."

"I will give you something you can eat after 2 hours. So please be patient until then."

This way, I have to fill my stomach by eating simple snacks little by little just to soothe my empty stomach. I heard from Hannah that there are noble ladies who don't eat all day to get the best figure. I don't know if I should feel happy or sad. Sob. No, it's all about eating and living well, why would we throw a party if we don't eat well? Men don't need to fast every time they attend a party, right? This is outrageous gender discrimination! Huwaaaaa!

"Princess, you can't talk for 1 hour from now. So, be patient even if this makes you feel uncomfortable."

They told me to lie down, then they rubbed something hard on my face. Hearing what this maid eonni said, it seemed like she was forbidding me not to speak so that something she rubbed on my face could have some effect. But, how is this different from all the things you did in the bathroom? Uwaaa, this is uncomfortable.

"You shouldn't frown your brows either."

And at the same time, Lily also started doing something to my hair. Hot. I also felt tired, but as soon as Lily touched my hair, I felt sleepy and wanted to sleep.

"If you are tired, you can close your eyes for a while."

Lily was the person who knew my condition the quickest, she whispered in a voice that made me feel comfortable. Uwaaaaa. In fact, I couldn't help but be grateful for those words because all this time I couldn't sleep because I was nervous. Ugh, it feels embarrassing, how can I feel nervous at my age. I'm embarrassed. Oops, but my shyness is useless in the face of a galloping horse. In the end, I fell asleep lying down, I felt like a sick chick and finally fell asleep for a while.

***

Originally, the Debutante Ball was held on the first day of the last month of the year, so it might have felt cold, but it wasn't. That's because Obelia is a country where spring and summer last all year round.

"Would you like to look in the mirror?"

That's such a relief! Otherwise, girls like me will definitely be shivering from the cold when they debut. I mean, debutante makes me have to wear clothes like this.

I will dress up as best as possible for debutante. Several times, the servant sisters changed my clothes and hairstyle, basically from head to toe...

"What do you think?"

This is a mini version of the Fairy Eonni I met in my dream! Wow! The real Athanasia is already beautiful, but wouldn't she be amazing when she dressed up like this?

"You are very beautiful, Princess."

All the maid eonnis who had worked hard for this day looked at me with faces filled with pride and admiration.

"Princess, I'm sure at this Debutante Ball you will be the most beautiful person."

I also thanked all the maid eonnis and smiled brightly. I wore a white dress because it is customary to wear a white dress at the Debutante Ball. This is the first time I realized that there are so many white dress designs that at first glance look similar.

Some people said that they wanted to emphasize their mature appearance on debut day —to knock on the door of the new socialite world. But, I don't want to do something like that. As I get older, I feel that, isn't being a child a better thing to look like than looking like a grown woman. However, on the other hand, dresses that are too loose and too childish can also be problematic.

So, the dress I chose was the dress that Lily chose, that's the dress I'm wearing right now. In short, this dress is a fairy dress that brings out my childish innocence and freshness, making Athanasia's fairy-like beauty stand out even more!

The material was thin and soft, especially the layered skirt, it made this dress look like a blooming white flower. The jewels adorned in the folds of my sleeves, on the front of the dress that exposed my collarbones, and on the ribbon that hung and extended behind my waist, all of it gave off a mysterious glow every time I moved.

I didn't wear the shoes that Felix gave me. That's because I had prepared these shoes before my birthday, I had also practiced dancing to get used to high heels which were exactly the same as the shoes I was currently wearing. It would be a big problem if I fell in front of a lot of people because I was wearing shoes that I wasn't used to. Sob.

"The tiara has been tied as tightly as possible so it won't break easily."

Yes, this tiara is also very beautiful. Today, my blonde hair looks shiny and elastic, it's obvious that it will look very beautiful when I bend over. I really looked like a princess when I wore the tiara over my long, waist-length hair! As for accessories, I only wore accessories in the form of earrings, necklaces and red garnet bobble bracelets which didn't look too excessive. Maybe it's because Athanasia's appearance already looks quite beautiful.

"Princess, you should come out now."

Lily, who had just left the room because there was a message from outside, immediately turned to me. Is it time to go?

"I'm sure today will be a great debut for you, Princess."

She held my hand and whispered with a smiling face as if she was praying and encouraging me. I looked at her with a smile, signaling to her that she didn't need to worry.

"Yes. I'm sure that will happen."

That's right, I'm not Athanasia in the original story. I have the support of Lily and the other maid eonnis. I have to be enthusiastic for today! After that, I left the room full of encouragement from them.

"Princess."

"Felix."

In front of the door, Felix stood wearing a uniform. Uwaaa, what is a knight uniform? Men in uniform! Ah no. This is not good for the heart.

"You are very charming today."

Even the maids who were usually quiet, they also praised my beauty. I felt very confident, but when Felix showed a surprised face, I became a little embarrassed and ended up laughing.

"His Majesty has been waiting for you. Let's go."

But today, maybe because I was wearing high heels, Felix wasn't walking behind me, he was trying to escort me. I took Felix's hand and went down the stairs. Ugh, are there really that many stairs in the Emerald Palace? Down and down, it feels like there is no end! But, since the maid eonnis were looking at us with envious eyes, I couldn't spoil the atmosphere by expressing my thoughts like that.

"Your Majesty, I have brought the Princess."

And finally, I met Claude. Oh my. This was the first time I saw this person dressed like that. Usually, he always dresses like an Arab, he only wears formal clothes when meeting with foreign envoys a few times a year.

Don't tell me, he's dressed like that because this is my debutante? Is that true? Is that person really my father, a father who already has children? Why is he shining so brightly like that? I was surprised to see him, and apparently, Claude was also surprised to see me. When his eyes met mine, he flinched and squinted for a moment, then he returned to his original state.

"You look cold."

I can't believe those were the first words you said when you saw me who was already this beautiful. Haha. It's no longer surprising.

"Dad, you look great today!"

What can I do? I have to flatter him first. Come on, praise him. Praise him many times, as much as possible. Then, I wonder if Claude looked at me and showed a somewhat gentle expression. Hmmm. Apparently, even though he didn't show it, he seemed worried about me because he didn't show up on my birthday. This is the first time I've seen him since my birthday. But, I can understand. Maybe it was inevitable for him, so I should be able to understand it. Besides, just knowing the fact that he was worried about me made me feel fine.

"I'm happy because today I can be with you, Dad."

I smiled broadly at Claude again, as if I had forgotten that he didn't show his face on my birthday because of Diana. When I smiled, Claude's eyes changed little by little. Soon, he extended his hand to me slowly, just like Felix did before.

"Today,"

I held his hand with a smile on my face. After that, Claude whispered softly to me.

"You are very beautiful."

Hearing that monotonous voice, I raised my head and looked at his face. But Claude didn't look at me, he acted like someone who never said anything. However, I looked at his expressionless face and laughed in a shallow voice.

"Thank you, Dad."

Even though I said that he didn't respond to me, he acted as if he didn't know what I was talking about, but I still couldn't stop laughing. Claude continued acting like that until we arrived at the large hall where the Debutante Ball was being held.

***

"His Majesty the Emperor, Claude De Alger Obelia enters the Hall!"

"Her Highness Princess Athanasia De Alger Obelia enters the Hall!"

Who am I? Where am I? What are you all doing here? I was in a daze, but a smile was on my face. When I entered this Hall for the first time, the person in front of me announced the arrival of Claude and me in a loud voice, which was what started my nervousness. As I walked past the long purple cloth and went inside, the music that was playing melodiously stopped immediately. And hundreds or thousands of pairs of eyes immediately turned to me as if they had been waiting for me. Hah? Huh? Hahaha? To be honest, I was successful in attracting attention. Holding Claude's hand, I stepped into the Banquet Hall, saw their gazes, and was stunned.

"Why?"

His face was still smiling, but Claude suddenly asked me who just stood in place and didn't move. Even though I was fine earlier, why am I having a mental breakdown now? Wow! Come to think of it, this is my first time standing in front of so many people! Apart from that, the surroundings became very quiet as if I could hear the sound of a needle dropping. Among them, some people looked at me and whispered. Hu-Huu-Huu-Huhuuuu. I think I'm going to die, my mind is blank, I can't think of anything.

It was then that Claude, who was still looking at me, raised his head and glanced at the people. Then, the people in the hall began to lower their heads. Hiiiikkk. Is this real power? Claude, for now, I respect you! I have never felt so happy when I was with you! Aaawwwwww. Now that the gazes staring at me have disappeared, I will live a little longer. And not only that, for a moment my respect for Claude increased.

"If you wish, I won't let them raise their heads again until the party is over."

"N-No need."

In any case, don't do it! I'm not the only one making my debut today! There are other girls out there in white dresses like me who have been waiting for this party for months, even years. How can I allow them to keep lowering their heads until my debut ends? That's the same as me ruining the Debutante Ball today. Sob. If you do that, I will only get hatred from many girls.

"It's okay, Dad. Because you are by my side."

Ugh, but now I feel sick. I won't throw up while dancing, right? If that happens, I will die of shame. Sob.

"Unexpectedly, you would be nervous because of something as trivial as this."

Yes? This is a trivial matter? Don't you think, in a very large Hall like this, I could die if I walked onto the dance floor in the middle of the Hall? Wow. I have to dance there. Weird, but crazy.

"When I remember how since you were little you pulled my hair mercilessly and even hit me in the face without fear, I think you can dance in front of lots of people well."

I almost hiccuped because I felt so embarrassed when Claude said all that in a monotone voice. Hey, why are you making a surprise attack on me like this? Why are you talking about that in a place like this!? How many years ago do you think that happened? Ehehehe. I know he's a vengeful person, but I can't believe he still remembers all those things!

"E-Eh? A-A-Ah. I don't remember, did I ever do that? Dad, your joke is too much. Ahahaha."

I tried to laugh as if I had heard a very funny joke. But, it seems that Claude doesn't want to let me go.

"Since childhood, you've had a mischievous side to you."

"Aahhh. Dad, stop teasing me."

Whoa! Stop talking about my dark history! I want to hit you! I really want to hit you! But, if I do, for the first time in a long time, I will feel threatened again like before. Sob. Meanwhile, Claude and I had arrived at the dance floor. Claude gave a greeting —he looked a little sullen, but he still did what a man would do when he asked a woman to dance. Of course Claude, he only made a simple and plain greeting —just like a chicken breast that had been drained of fat, a very, very simple greeting indeed. But I prefer it that way.

"Hand."

You think I'm a dog? Sob. Do you mind if I talk to you the same way I roll around with Blackie?

"Ehehe."

But what else can I do, what can I do? Well, at least you're not threatening my life for now. I lifted the hem of my skirt slightly to the side, gave a greeting, and placed my hand on Claude's outstretched hand in front of me. Like this, really like a real dog. Still, the words Claude said to me had some effect on me. I realized that I wasn't as nervous as before. Yes, dancing in front of a lot of people is not a big deal. I was the one who even hit Claude in the face, while they were the ones who lowered their heads because they were afraid of Claude. Come on, I can do this! Ahem, ahem.

"Calm your mind."

As I held hands with Claude, the sound of dance music that I had heard while practicing hundreds of times, began to slowly spread throughout the Hall. Claude's voice that flowed through the music was so small that it was drowned out by the sound of the dance music.

"Don't mind what other people say, this is a day for you to have fun."

It was a sound that was louder than any other sound my ears could hear. I can't feel what people are saying when they see my current expression. I looked at Claude's face as he held my hand and led the dance steps. Then, he grinned indifferently. It seemed like he was deliberately bringing up old incidents to ease my tension. Thanks to that, I felt very comfortable, so I had to say something so that he wouldn't have to worry about me anymore.

"Dad, you don't know how good I am at dancing, right? Don't be surprised. You don't know how Madame Pompadour praises me every day until her mouth is dry..."

Tap!

But, before I could finish my words, the heel of my shoe hit something other than the marble floor. Claude raised one of his eyebrows while looking at my face. For a moment, he didn't say anything.

"I know you just stepped on my foot."

"……"

O-Oh my. Da#n! God, why are you doing this to me!? Even though I just said words filled with pride! I want to show off my amazing dancing skills! But why am I stepping on Claude's toes at a time like this!? God, if you do exist, isn't this too much? You should stop giving me a dark history. Huhuhuuu!

"I already knew that your hands were strong, it turns out your legs are strong too."

“D-Dad, it's fine……”

"Hurt."

"……"

Claude answered so quickly that I was speechless. No, I'm grateful that you didn't immediately push me away when I stepped on your foot. But, what's wrong with pretending not to know? Moreover, I was more embarrassed because of the words he said when I stepped on his feet. Huhuhuuuu. Is there a rat hole here? Can I go in there? Sob!

It was at that moment, I heard a low laughter that felt like a gust of wind. I raised my head reflexively, all this time I had kept my head down in shame. Then, I widened my eyes when I saw the face reflected in my vision.

"Yeah, no matter how similar you are. You're still someone else."

Claude smiled broadly with a face that had been cleared of the complicated emotions he sometimes showed whenever he saw me.

"I forgot that obvious fact. I really became very stupid."

"Daddy?"

The expression on Claude's face caught my attention. And maybe because of that, I lost my concentration. Meanwhile, I stepped on Claude's foot for the second time. Arghhh! This was not intentional! My feet have a mind of their own, so they move as they please!

"Doesn't Madame Pompadour always praise you until her mouth is dry?"

"U-Usually I'm so great. Today, today I'm so nervous……"

But, even to me, his words seemed to indicate that I was bad at this. Ugh, I'm so angry! Usually, I'm good at dancing! But, I've stepped on Claude's feet twice. So, it was natural that Claude wanted to scratch me. At the end of my dance with Claude, I did my best to control my expressions and smile, but my mind was already exhausted. Ouch, I feel like crying! I will never forget today's humiliation!

Ttadan—

"It is over."

Finally, the last notes of the dance music had already resounded throughout the Hall. Maybe it was because of my mood, but the words that Claude said in a low tone now felt convincing so I felt a little relieved. Yes, this is good. Because I don't have to step on his toes anymore. Sob. I let go of Claude's hand and slightly bowed him.

"Good work."

Then, I raised my head. For a moment, I doubted my ears when I heard a voice above my head. At that moment, there was loud applause from the surroundings as if they had been waiting for this. Then, any remaining tension melted like snow. I grabbed Claude's hand which was extended to me again. Now, it's time to get off the dance floor for the rest of the main cast. I held Claude's hand and whispered as we walked.

"Next time, you can definitely do better."

Hearing that, Claude smiled arbitrarily again —like before. I looked around slowly because I had more peace of mind than before. Actually, the reason I often make mistakes when I dance with Claude is because I have to think about other things that will happen in the day. For example, Zenith is somewhere here. It's not an excuse I made up, but I really thought about it. Really!

However, Zenith has not yet been seen. In the novel, sometime after the Debutante Ball begins, Zenith appears and confirms her existence. It's been a long time since I read the novel, so I don't really remember the details. While holding Claude's hand and continuing to walk, everyone I looked at —they had a gaze that seemed as if they were looking at an alien creature. Hah? No, but what kind of expressions are on their faces? It was like an expression that showed they were seeing something they had never seen before. Is there something strange about me? Like my hair or my shoes? Or is the seam on my dress torn?

"Dad, is there something strange about me?"

Because Claude was the only person beside me, so I asked him —I asked in a whisper. Then, he looked at me and said,

"No need to worry, you're as beautiful as when you first came in here."

Hah!? What's wrong with this person? He's been giving me really good lip service ever since! Besides, haven't you noticed that there are other people here? How can you say something like that openly and loudly!?

"Ugh!"

"What!"

"Aahh, cough, cough, cough!"

Noisy, Noisy.

At this time, the people who were standing relatively close to us and they heard the words that Claude said, immediately became excited. Their eyes widened as if they were going to pop out. Needless to say, their eyes were like those of aliens. Moreover, each of them was panting as if they had heard something they shouldn't have heard, and some of them were breathing rapidly or coughing heavily. This is really, really messy. Why am I the one who feels embarrassed? He's the one who said embarrassing things! Anyone who hears it will definitely think that Claude really spoils me!

Meanwhile, the music started echoing again on the dance floor. It was the second dance after me that the Princess had performed a monumental first dance at the Debutante Ball. I was a little angry at the fact that other people were listening to Claude's words, so I rubbed my feet on the floor in vain, then looked up after a while. Claude whispered something into Felix's ear who had already approached. I turned my gaze away from them and started observing the place I had just left.

And finally, I found a familiar face. Ah, that's Duke Alphaeus. As expected, today he came to the Debutante Ball, seeing him alone, Zenith and Izekiel might have been dancing on the dance floor. I heard that debutante starts with young girls having their first dance with their partners, then they swap partners to freely find someone they are compatible with. That's why, during the debutante, they looked for each other's husband and wife partners for them. It made me understand why I often hear that most married couples meet and get to know each other at the Debutante Ball. Looks like Claude won't be appearing at the dance venue anymore.

Hmmm. By the way, out of all the people, finding Zenith and Izekiel is impossible. Are they going to show up and claim that Zenith is Claude's daughter? If so, how will Claude react? And how should I act in that situation? I looked at Claude's face who was standing next to me. He stared somewhere in front of him with bored eyes as if he was done talking to Felix. But then, he felt my gaze and he lowered his head towards me. I smiled at him.

"Dad, thank you for being with me today."

This time, I didn't have any clever intentions to show off to him, but I said it with very sincere intentions.

"I'm happy with just that, and I think it will be a very fun and happy day like you said."

Even if the day comes, the day Claude grows to love Zenith and no longer considers me his daughter —just like in the original story, I don't want to deny the things I've received from him. So, there's no harm in saying thank you here and now. Of course, I won't just let it go and will try to maintain it, but I won't hesitate to deceive everyone to survive as I have done all this time. So, I wonder if these are the only words I can say with such a pure heart?

"I… I'm happy that you are here, Dad."

After all, you are the first father I have ever had in my life. And so far, I feel fine. I smiled at him, and he opened his mouth as if he wanted to say something to me.

Ttadan—

At the same time, the second dance ended. Then, the music for the third dance immediately started. This song is not a song for 2 couples, but it is a dance song performed by all the girls who made their debut this year.

"Dad. See you later."

After whispering softly, I let go of Claude's hand which I had been holding. At that moment, the face facing me changed its expression. When it came into contact with his body temperature which was slowly leaving me, his hands seemed to stop for a moment, and his parted lips seemed to beckon me. But I still stepped into the crowd with a smile on my face and started mingling in the crowd full of girls. When I saw Duke Alphaeus approaching Claude, I disappeared among the crowd.

***

The reverberating sound of music sounded more lively than before, it finally filled the entire Hall. The young girls moved to find their place, each of them wore a white dress and had a blush on their cheeks (embarrassed). I was one of them, so I looked around to see if there was a chance for me to get in among these awkward girls.

Noisy, Noisy.

Somehow, it seemed like no one wanted to stand beside me. No, this is a little different from reluctance. Every time I passed by, everyone would glance at me and give me way, but there was still no one standing next to me. It felt like, they all felt uncomfortable because they knew that I was a princess. After all, I had just danced with Claude. Huhuu, it felt like my eyes were wet, and I looked around, I was standing next to a girl with lilies on her head. Fine, I'll choose you!

"Those lilies really suit you."

The girl looked surprised when I stood next to her, she couldn't hide her confusion when I spoke to her first. I smiled broadly at her.

"I like lilies too."

To be precise, I like people who have the same name as that flower. For some reason, the girl looked at me and opened her mouth for a moment, then she answered me with red cheeks as if she had just woken up.

"Ah, yes. Th-Thank you."

"Please take care of me on this dance."

"M-Me too, please take care of me."

Hands wearing lace gloves touch each other. The hand I was holding shook slightly as if he was nervous. This dance is performed in pairs by girls who have just debuted, and they have to change partners 4 times in the middle of the dance. Of course, there was no chance to gather all the main cast today and match the moves, so this dance was a dance with very simple moves. If not, then there might be some commotion here and there while dancing. Just take 3 steps forward, 3 steps back, 1 turn backward, swap places with the opposite person, and then each move 1 step to the right in the same direction until the song ends. I don't know, but I can do it by looking at other people.

The music started, and in an instant, it was time to change partners. After the girl with the lilies, a tall girl took my hand hesitantly. However, this was an easy dance so I kept thinking of other things in my head. For example, thinking about what Claude was talking about together with Duke Alphaeus right now. Seeing that the place they were in looked quiet, I wondered if Duke Alphaeus was talking about Zenith, maybe he was planning to introduce Zenith after this song was finished.

When I thought about it, the dance partners had already changed twice. This is the last one. Rather than having the meaning of strengthening friendship, this is just a symbolic dance for debutantes, that's why the song to finish this dance is very short. But this time, my partner, unlike the previous girls, she held my hand without hesitation. I subconsciously moved my eyes toward her, I couldn't see her closely because the dance had already started, but this time, she was a brown-haired girl.

"The ribbon tied around your waist almost fell off."

When that small voice whispered in my ear, I was shocked. The clear sound was like jade beads rolling on a glass lake. A face that seemed to shine brightly when our eyes met. And eyes that had a sense of pure curiosity about me, and also a strange feeling that I felt. Her eyes were a dark cobalt blue, the same color as the deep ocean.

"Do you want me to tie it back up?"

I could see that this girl was the person I was destined to meet today. As soon as I realized that fact, a small sound came out of my mouth, either a scream or a groan.

"Ah."

This was the first time I met Zenith face to face. I've thought about this many times, what kind of expression I would make when I first met him. In fact, if we met without knowing each other's names, would I be able to recognize her immediately? The answer I finally found today was, 'Yes'. I just looked at her without answering her question, while she smiled broadly.

"Hmm, is there a problem?"

"No…………"

Tap!

Right at that moment, there was something I stepped on other than the marble floor. Hah? What did I just step on? I was shocked after realizing that what I stepped on was Zenith's foot.

"Sorry. It wasn't on purpose…………"

"It's alright. It doesn't hurt at all."

When I apologized for being embarrassed and panicked, she answered that with a friendly and sweet smile. For a moment, I felt like there was an aura shining behind her. What kind of angel is this? Isn't the kindness of the main protagonist too serious? I'm wearing high heels, so there's no way it won't hurt! Moreover, I hit her toes with my heel! And at the same time, I heard another 'Ah!' sound in my ears.

Da#n!

"Aish."

I stepped on it again. How many times do I want to step on it in this short dance?! Oh my! Forgive me. Forgive me! Next time, whether you're Claude's daughter or not, I'm truly sorry for stepping on you! This time, I felt more guilty because I saw her beautiful face in pain, it seemed that it really hurt. Even so, she still smiled brightly at me as if nothing had happened.

"Actually, I was also very nervous. So I also stepped on the feet of the person I was dancing with."

I can't see that happening…… No, that can't be happening. No matter how much I thought about it, I didn't think Zenith would step on other people's feet while dancing. Does she just want to cheer me up? Right at that moment, for some reason, the song felt very long and finally ended. Applause sounded from all directions. All the girls who were making debutantes smiled brightly. Zenith also has a smile on her face, she looks at me.

"If you don't mind, I'd like to tie your ribbon."

But for some reason, the words of acceptance just didn't come out of my mouth. That's because, strangely, the pure kindness reflected on Zenith made me feel a little uncomfortable.

"It's fine. Since the song is finished, I'll ask someone else."

I rejected her by smiling as if I couldn't make her do something like that, and then the person in front of me wanted to open her mouth again. But I smiled back before she could say anything else.

"Sorry, I stepped on your foot twice. It must have hurt a lot, are you hurt?"

"It's okay. You don't need to care about that."

"Thank goodness. Oh, I guess I should go. I didn't mean to dance to this song. Then, have fun."

It seemed like she wanted to say something more to me, but I just smiled and hurried away from that place.

Wow. Then, I wondered whether this was a dream or not. Did I really talk to Zenith just now? Could it be that I just misunderstood, that girl is someone else, not Zenith? But, after peeking back at the place I had just visited, I was sure that I wasn't mistaken. Zenith left the dance floor together with Duke Alphaeus.

But that's a bit strange. I'm sure they should be talking to Claude, but why are they silent? What's the original story? By the way, Zenith's eye color must have been changed with magic, right? No way, don't tell me now you guys will appear in front of Claude! I thought they were going for a dramatic effect by showing off her jewel eyes.

I moved to look for Claude. From now on, it is the time when everyone is allowed to change partners and dance freely, so many boys and girls are dancing. No one asked me to dance, but because I wasn't interested, I didn't really care about dancing. More important than that, I want to meet Claude. Because I want to meet him and confirm something. But, before I could find Claude, someone called me.

"Princess Athanasia."

In fact, I could have ignored it if I wanted to. But, without realizing it, I stopped walking when 'a call' came to my ears.

"Miss Angel."

I know that voice. It was a low-pitched, gentle voice that convinced me it was a voice I had heard before, and moreover, there was only one person who had called me by that nickname.

"This is the first time I have greeted you formally."

Slowly, I turned my head towards the voice. And there, I finally saw someone I was also destined to meet today.

'It doesn't matter. Next time, I…'

"I am Izekiel Alphaeus. It is an honor to meet you."

'I will meet you in person.'

His smile on that day, the smile that had faintly faded among the white flower petals, now reappeared in front of me.

"Izekiel Alphaeus..."

I called the name of the person who had just introduced himself to me. It was a very small sound, which must have been buried by the sound of the music, but the person in front of me, laughed as if he heard my whisper. 'Izekiel Alphaeus… My name is Athanasia De Alger Obelia.'

"Oh, I see."

Today, for the first time, we uttered each other's names on our lips, after previously we only kept them in our hearts. Besides, I looked at him face to face, as if I was already familiar with the smile of a person I had met for the first time in my life.

"Nice to meet you, Lord Alphaeus' son."

***

Whoaaaaaaa. What I have done?

Tap!

"Sor……"

"It doesn't matter."

Is it true that right now I'm dancing with Izekiel? Huwaaa, based on the real feeling that I just stepped on his foot, it seems like this is true. Aaahhhhhh! Besides, this isn't the first time I've stepped on his toes. Seriously, I should say that he was used to this, to the point where Izekiel immediately said 'It's fine.' before I even finished saying 'Sorry'! Maybe right now my pupils are shaking non-stop. That's why Izekiel kept showing off his gentle smile which was like a spring breeze, as if it was to reassure me that he was fine!

Actually, I was just thinking about dancing with Claude. Basically, I didn't practice much apart from dance practice with Claude, that's why right now I'm constantly stepping on Izekiel's feet. Actually, why did you ask me to dance!? I just want to say hello and then say goodbye beautifully!

Instead, I accepted Izekiel's outstretched hand as if I were possessed by something. Yes, it can't be helped, I couldn't stand it because that incident looked like a scene from a fictional story.

Think about it. A scene where a handsome man with silver hair and golden eyes, the man was wearing royal clothes —made him look like a prince. He asked me to dance under the sparkling chandelier. At that moment, it felt like I really was the main character in a story.

So, as soon as I came to my senses, I was already holding his hand and the people around us who were watching the two of us until now looked excited, just like fish meeting water*. The male lead's buff is truly terrifying! I didn't know what to do myself, so I just danced to Izekiel's rhythm. And not long after, I was faced with this situation.

T/N: *This is an expression that implies a feeling of pleasure or enthusiasm for something seen, that what they see is very suitable. In essence, these people felt that Izekiel and Athi looked 'suitable' to the point that they were amazed. More or less, it's similar to 'a match made in heaven'.

"There's no need to worry. Your steps were as light as a feather, so I didn't feel a thing."

Da-Da#n. Again I stepped on his foot. The words he whispered to me actually made me lose my confidence even more. From Claude, Zenith, to Izekiel. For some reason, I always step on the feet of everyone I dance with. What actually happened here? Whoaaaa. By the way, Izekiel, you…… I felt that you were teasing me.

"If you don't feel anything, why don't you just pretend you don't know?"

If a lady accidentally stepped on his foot while dancing, a true gentleman should pretend as if nothing had happened! But now Izekiel makes me feel even more embarrassed because he always says words like that every time I step on his feet. Maybe it's just me, but it feels like he's teasing me gently!

"If that's what you want, then I'll do it from now on."

Look at this! Your mouth is very polite, but your eyes are smiling! Sob. Okay. Seeing as he's very good at leading, it seems like this isn't his first dance. He must have danced a lot in Arlanta or maybe in Obelia. And maybe this was the first time, his feet were stepped on like this. Sob.

"I heard that His Majesty loves you very much, Princess Athanasia."

Right at that moment, the sound of Izekiel's low laughter reached my ears.

"The saying that 'The depth of love cannot be calculated' seems to be true."

I narrowed my eyes, not understanding what he was talking about.

"My back hurts more like it's been stung than when my feet were stepped on by you, Princess."

After hearing Izekiel's words, I turned my gaze behind his back in confusion. Immediately, what I discovered shocked me.

"Ughhh."

What, what, what, what is that look!? He would kill people with just those eyes! It was Claude, but today his dark blonde hair looked neater than usual, and his gem eyes now glowed turquoise, and his black robe was decorated with luxurious silver threads! Apparently, it was Claude whom I had been looking for earlier. But why are you looking at me with that look?

"It seems he doesn't want to hand over his precious daughter's hand to anyone else."

Eh? Ah, that's impossible. However, that's not a good reason. While listening to the words that Izekiel said while chuckling, I occasionally peeked at the man who was emitting an extraordinary presence in the distance. Well, it felt like that guy had 'annoyed' written all over his forehead. If there was a piece of paper in front of Claude, wouldn't Claude's gaze be sharp enough to split the paper in half? Hiiikkkkk, the people around him immediately moved away from Claude, which shows that this isn't just my hallucination, right? Come to think of it, I was looking for Claude before I met Izekiel. I coughed and said,

"Lord Alphaeus often talks about you, so perhaps Father finds it interesting."

Or it could be that Roger Alphaeus, whom he had just met, had done something that offended Claude, or maybe because usually Claude was always annoyed with Roger Alphaeus, and now his annoyance was directed at Izekiel. Argh, whatever the reason, he's not upset with me just because I danced with another guy, right!?

"I always look forward to the day I meet you, a very intelligent and beautiful Princess."

No, but maybe because this person resembles Duke Alphaeus, his lip service…… We made eye contact. Now, Izekiel and I smiled at each other and looked at each other face to face. It's a smile that can make us look like very nice people when seen by others. But, this was just a fake smile.

"Princess, you are just as rumored."

Apart from me, Izekiel also had the same smile. Maybe this is because I've seen Izekiel's other smile. So, it wasn't hard for me to realize that it was a well-crafted smile for him to show to the public.

"I feel impressed to be able to meet Lord Alphaeus' son that I heard about from hearsay."

The two of us acted as if we had never met each other at Duke Alphaeus' Residence. By the way, his face hasn't changed a bit since we first met, he must have known my identity from the start. Well, I wonder if I can't guess what Izekiel is thinking. Hearing my words, Izekiel smiled with the corners of his eyes slightly narrowed. Ah, he's really laughing now.

Tap!

And when I was blinded by the extraordinary brilliance of the male lead in the original story, I stepped on his feet again for the umpteenth time. Unlike my face which hardened in a smiling state, his smile became wider.

"Since you ordered me to pretend not to know, I will do it."

"……"

"So you don't have to worry about anything, just take it easy."

"……"

……Are there really no rat holes here? Didn't I tell you that I wanted to use that hole? I screamed in my heart and prayed that this song would end soon.

***

"It's finished."

Arghhh! Finally, I'm free! Of course, it should be Izekiel who said this, not me. But, geez, huhuuuu. This song is very long, and you've worked hard to pretend nothing happened. Huhuhuuuu.

"I would like to ask you to dance one more song."

I was really surprised by what Izekiel said. Seriously, he's spouting bullsh!t, right? You're not serious, are you? Are your legs made of steel? Ahaha. It turns out that you really are Albie's son, you are good at saying such nonsense.

"I will promise it in the future."

"Yes. I look forward to it."

I answered quickly because I feared he would change his mind and ask me to dance with him again. Then, Izekiel chuckled. Right. Laugh all you want. Hahaha. I don't know how I could be like this when I was practicing dancing, Madame Pompadour always praised my dancing skills until her mouth was dry. Sob. Huhuhuuuu.

I will learn to dance again tomorrow. I will go to my room and kick a bunch of blankets!

"It is an honor for me to be able to spend precious time with Princess Athanasia on this precious day."

Izekiel took the back of my hand and bowed politely. Oh my. Even though he already looked very cool just standing still, now he looked like a real painting. I could understand why many people —even the maids were making a fuss about Izekiel's return from Arlanta.

"Then, I can't wait to see you again another time, Miss Angel."

H-He's so cool! What? What did you just say? It seems like the word forbidden just crossed my ears. When I was frozen, Izekiel kissed the back of my hand, then looked into my eyes and smiled. Ugh, Mother… I thought the male lead was an innocent puppy but it turns out he's a fox! You're kidding, right? That was the case earlier, when I stepped on your foot, you mocked me as if I didn't step on you, right? That's right, isn't it?

"Have a nice day."

……By the way, I didn't know it before, but what is this gaze? Do you keep watching me like that? It was a look similar to Claude's when we were dancing, but it was a little different.

"Princess."

"Felix."

Right at that moment, Felix, who had always been beside Claude, approached me.

"Where's Daddy?"

Where was Dad that I was left alone like this? I moved my eyes to find the person who had just looked at me and Izekiel with a scary gaze.

"His Majesty is away on other matters."

Previously, Felix whispered something to him, it seemed like something was happening. Well, Claude is not a relaxed person and deliberately made time for me today.

It was then, a thought crossed my mind. Aahh. Could this be the same as the original story? Maybe he was meeting with Duke Alphaeus and Zenith in the Throne Room. It's not that I'm not mentally prepared, but right now, my heart is pounding a little.

"Don't worry, His Majesty will be back soon. This is your debutante, not someone else. So he will stay here until the event ends."

Felix said that as if my feelings were clearly visible in my facial expression. He must have thought I was sad because Claude had quietly left. I smiled at Felix, showing that I was fine. Then, he smiled and extended his hand to me.

"Then, Princess. Please dance with me."

What, what, dancing again? Hmmm. Well, I've danced with Claude, and I've also danced with Izekiel, so it doesn't make sense that I reject Felix. You've been watching me dance since earlier, so you're already prepared to be stepped on, right? Haha. In that case, okay.

"Yes, with pleasure."

Your feet will hurt a little later, but I won't take responsibility because it's not my fault!

***

"Princess, I'm sorry if I've offended you before, I didn't realize it."

About 5 minutes later, Felix apologized to me with a face that was much paler than before the song started, because I had been trampling his feet mercilessly throughout the dance, so it seemed like he was doubtful whether I did it on purpose or not. No, but still! I didn't mean to, but what's the point of me apologizing? Huhuuuu. You would still think that I stepped on it on purpose, right? I felt embarrassed, and then I whispered to Felix.

"You knew that before you asked me to dance, right? Surely you saw me step on Dad's foot."

"No. I didn't see it at all…… Did you really step on His Majesty's feet like this?"

Well, there's nothing to ask, right? I mean, anyone could accidentally step on their partner's foot while dancing. Eh? Why is your facial expression brightening? Is it because now you know that I did it by accident?

"I'm relieved that I'm not the only one with this fate. There's no need to hesitate to step on my feet……"

Tap!

"Ugh?"

Just don't overdo it…… And I'm not treading comfortably right now! I mean, I pay as much attention as I can to my footsteps! Arghhh! After the song finished, Felix took my hand and left the dance floor with a face filled with more joy than ever. No, this is the first time I've seen this oppa look this happy. His attitude was too much. No, it doesn't mean I don't understand. Yes, of course. Up to you.

"Perhaps His Majesty will be a little late."

I don't know what it is, but it would be a long story. What? Is the person surrounded by people there Zenith? Let's see. Duke Alphaeus…… He was talking to Izekiel back there. Then, what happened to Claude? Does Claude's business have nothing to do with Zenith? As I left the dance floor while thinking about that, Felix whispered to me while laughing softly.

"Actually, right before His Majesty left, he ordered me to be extra careful by your side so that the other insects wouldn't move and get close to you."

Hah? What's that? Insect? What are you talking about? Who do you mean?

"It's not that I don't understand the feeling, but I can't help it because today is your day, Princess."

But, before I could express my question, Felix stopped showing a smile on his face.

"I'll get into trouble later, but I'll bear it."

Then, he pushed my back with a gentle touch. I was pushed several steps forward from where I was standing.

"I'll keep an eye on you, so you can rest easy."

The next second, I gasped in surprise. I don't know since when there were a lot of people crowding around me. I don't know since when they were standing so close to me. Hey, Felix, you da#n. You still remember that I stepped on your foot when we were dancing, right? I stepped on your foot not once or twice, but 10 times. Is that why you pushed me to these people, because you wanted revenge?! I looked back and saw Felix still standing there, smiling gently at me. For a moment I hesitated, but finally, I looked back at the front and smiled awkwardly. Then, the people around me started to open their mouths as if they had been waiting for this moment.

"Princess Athanasia. It is an honor to meet you."

“I am the second son of Marquis Gael……”

"My name is Elizabeth……"

"If you don't have an appointment with anyone else, in the next song, would you please dance with me…………"

"I sincerely congratulate you on your debutante."

Aaahhhhh, someone, please save me!

***

Before the debutante finished, I raised both my hands and feet (surrender). And I decided to be a naughty princess! I'll be back now! Haha.

"Yes, I'll take care of you."

Felix didn't tell me either, because he thought this was enough. That makes sense! I felt very annoyed, at first everyone just looked at me and didn't want to talk to me. Then, suddenly they came to me.

Oh! Claude is there!

"Daddy!"

Maybe because I just felt like I was suffering from being surrounded by people, I felt happy when I met Claude. Hearing my call, Claude looked at me, and as soon as he said a few words to the person beside him, he told the person to leave.

"The debutante isn't over yet."

"Now that it's the end, I just want to go home."

"Why?"

"Eh?"

Eh? I thought you would immediately agree. Why do you even ask 'Why?'?

"This is the debutante you've been waiting for so long, so why should we go back now?"

T-There's no reason for that. I just feel tired so I want to go back to my room early and try to sleep!

"Who bullied you?"

Hah? Just so you know, when you left, people flocked to me and suddenly they invited me to visit their house later! And many of them asked me to dance! Of course, I refused because I was afraid that my tragic dancing skills would be discovered. Sob.

"Or did someone do or say something that hurt your feelings?"

Eh, what else is this? Actions or words that hurt me? You worry about something like that? But, as soon as I widened my eyes in surprise at those unexpected words, it seemed Claude interpreted them differently. Instantly, the temperature around me dropped sharply. Then, an icy cold voice penetrated my eardrums.

"Who's that?"

"No……"

"Felix Robane."

The cold voice called Felix. What? What is it? Why do you call Felix by his full name? As soon as Claude called him, Felix immediately bent down and knelt, which made me even more surprised.

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"Didn't I tell you to take good care of the princess while I'm gone? But what did you do when that bast#rd hurt princess?"

"My apologies, Your Majesty. Due to my incompetence, I was unable to monitor the surroundings in detail. It was clearly my fault, so please punish me."

"I'm going back to the Hall. It seems like I've been silent for too long. Seeing someone fearlessly attacking me, I think they want to stop living."

N-No, am I the only person who doesn't understand what's going on right now? I didn't say anything, but suddenly Felix asked to be punished and Claude wanted to go back to the Hall? But now, if this person returns to the Hall, it seems like something bad will happen, right? My worries became more convincing as Claude strode and walked gloomily.

"Those who dare speak carelessly about my daughter, have their tongues cut off. And those who act carelessly to the point of forgetting to be polite to members of the Imperial Family, have their hands and feet cut off and hang those hands and feet in front of the palace gates."

What are you talking about?! Doesn't it sound like you want to capture the people in the Hall and kill them right now? What is the actual context of your words?! No, what actually happened?! I thought again about the words Claude had said earlier. And I immediately realized the meaning of those words, I felt like the back of my head was hit.

"D-Dad?"

I called out to Claude in panic, and he turned to me. Oh my! Just look at that look, I immediately knew that the look he had when he glared at Izekiel while I was dancing with Izekiel was just a cute look. Seeing his eyes sinking into the cold ocean and emitting an eerie light, made me shudder. Even though I knew where his anger was directed, I still felt doubtful, and subconsciously I stepped back, away from him. Hiiikkkk, it looked like there was a dangerous aura emerging from Claude's body, it looked like fog. I was at a loss for words as his words passed through my ears.

"Don't worry. I won't kill them because today is your debutante."

S-So you actually want to kill them? But you're holding back because it's debutante day? I don't know what it is, but it seems like he thinks that there are people who hurt my feelings?

"Felix, take the princess to the Emerald Palace."

Wait, wait, wait! I just want to go home and sleep in my bed!

"D-Dad! Wait a minute. Don't go!"

I hurriedly grabbed Claude, I felt like I was going crazy. Then, Claude, who was walking with his back to me, exuded a frightening aura, he stopped his steps which didn't seem like he was going to stop. But, what he told me was still far from the dreams and hopes I wanted.

"Go. It won't be long."

Just at that moment, an incident in the past that occurred in the Ruby Palace flashed through my mind at the speed of light. Arghhh! No, no, no! Of course, nope!

"Daddy!"

Uwaaaaa, this is crazy. I'm standing in the middle of the storm! If I say something wrong, then everyone in the Hall will die. Everyone there will cross the Jordan River together!

I immediately ran towards Claude and grabbed his arm. At that moment, it seemed as if the dangerous aura swirling around him had dispersed into the void like an illusion. Ugh, I have to hold him tight so he doesn't go into the Hall! I even crossed my arms to prevent Claude from letting me go. Then, Claude's arm which I was holding, twitched for a very short time. I hope you won't push me away for what I did. Right?

"Dad, don't be angry. I mean, nothing hurts my feelings."

"There's no need to hide it. Whoever shows an arrogant attitude, find and kill……"

"E-Eh? I have nothing to hide from you, Dad. How could I hide anything from you?"

Now, look at my eyes! Look into my eyes and you will feel happy, you will smile!

"I'm your daughter, who would dare hurt me?"

However, he was angry at the thought that his daughter, a princess, had been neglected by others, so I tried to show Claude that 'My father is the best, who would dare touch me!'. Then, little by little, Claude's anger subsided.

"Then why do you want to leave already? Isn't it because there are bugs saying nonsense or doing nonsense to you?"

I mean, I just want to be one with my bed (sleep). Sob.

"I came here because you left me alone for too long."

Hearing my words, Claude became hesitant.

"I came here because I wanted to be with you, Dad. But how could you want to leave me alone and go back into the hall?"

My words made the arm I was holding tightly twitch again, now the arm twitched a little longer. Succeed? Did I succeed?

"Come on, come with me to the Emerald Palace. I don't want to go back to the very crowded and noisy Banquet Hall. Don't go back there. Okay?"

Huhuuuu. I couldn't even save my own life, but now I have to save the lives of many people there. Actually, how heavy is my karma from my previous life?

"Yeah? Daddy."

Outside, I called out to Claude. But inside, I was crying. Huhuhuuu. I feel guilty because I stupidly made Claude think something wrong! Please don't let the people in the Hall die like that, don't let my karma multiply until it accumulates again. Ugh! It seemed like my prayers had reached the sky, and after a while, Claude said as if he had no other choice but to grant my request.

"It can't be helped. We're going back to the Emerald Palace."

Huhuuuu. Now I'm 14 years old. I didn't realize I was this strong!

"Ah. Come to think of it, Daddy, don't you have any urgent matters? Shouldn't you go to the Garnet Palace immediately?"

"If you want, I can take a moment of my time."

O-Oh, really? Ahaha. Thank you very much.

After successfully calming Claude down, I returned to the Emerald Palace together with him while smiling broadly. Ahahahaha. Then, suddenly, Felix who was standing behind me opened his mouth.

"Ah, Princess. The ribbon around your waist is gone."

"Ah, really?"

My red ribbon! It's an expensive ribbon because it has jewels on the string! Sob. I lost my beautiful child.

"Felix, find the ribbon."

"Understood."

"It's okay. Just let it go."

Even if the ribbon had come loose in the Hall, it would have been trampled on and turned into a mop. Da#n it. I had to let the ribbon go with tears. Oh, my beautiful darling. They both looked at me as if it would be fine, but I nodded at them. Ughh, don't tell me you guys know about my obsession with gold and jewels? So that's why you guys insist on looking for that ribbon? Hah? Is that so?

"Princess Athanasia."

Right at that time, someone called me. A thin sound mixed with air passed through my ears. Claude's eyes, which had been looking at me, now slid over my shoulder, and slowly my vision seemed to be playing a video in slow motion. I looked back and finally, I could see with my own eyes who the person who called me was.

"You dropped this."

A truly ironic thread of fate. It was Zenith, she was the one standing there holding my ribbon. Why you are here? That's what I thought for a moment. A strange silence hovered around me, there was only the sound of the night wind here. I witnessed something a little realistic when the girl in front of me let out an 'Ah.' as if he had just realized something, she bowed politely.

"Forgive me, Your Majesty. I have acted presumptuously in wanting to meet the Princess. May the blessings of glory and greatness bless the Sun of Obelia."

When she lowered her head, her long brown hair covered her beautiful face which shone brightly as bright as the stars in the night sky. Reflexively, I looked at Claude. However, Claude showed no reaction to Zenith's apology and just stared at Zenith silently. So, I had no other choice but to open my mouth first.

"I just found out that the ribbon is missing. Thank you for finding it."

"You're welcome, Princess."

I received the red ribbon from Zenith. As soon as my hand touched it, I hesitated to accept it, but Zenith smiled brightly at me. Did Claude not feel anything when he saw Zenith? The face of the girl in front of me clearly looked very similar to the portrait of the woman in Claude's room.

The only striking difference was that the girl in front of me had dark blue eyes that were like the color of the deep ocean, not green eyes like the woman in the painting had. Moreover, her real eyes were hidden by magic. The little Zenith I saw in the greenhouse at Duke Alphaeus' Residence when I was little, clearly had the same gem eyes as Claude and me.

"Come to think of it, I haven't introduced myself."

When she laughed, it felt like flowers were blooming all around her.

"My name is Zenith Magritta."

Right at that moment, Claude, who had been standing indifferently behind me, now took action.

"Magritta?"

This is different from the original story. Instead of stepping forward under the protection of Duke Alphaeus and Izekiel, Zenith exited the Banquet Hall alone to meet with Claude. Moreover, the identity she revealed was not as Claude's daughter.

"The child that taken care of by Alphaeus."

Since Duke Alphaeus is silent, I wonder what's really going on, does he not intend to reveal Zenith's identity yet?

"Have you heard of me, Your Majesty?"

However, Zenith responded to the words spoken by Claude in a curious tone. Then, Claude's eyebrows arched and quietly rose. Yes, Zenith is the heroine of <Lovely Princess>. There were only a few people who could raise their heads and talk to Claude like that. However, the fact that it didn't feel arrogant, but instead felt like the courage of a cute girl, it could be said that it was a terrifying ability of a protagonist.

"You dare act like that because you grew up under the shadow of Alphaeus, huh."

"My apologies."

Despite Claude's cold words, Zenith just smiled and responded politely. Seeing that, Claude closed his mouth. Judging from the look in his eyes, I couldn't tell what Claude was thinking as his eyes fell on the face of a girl who introduced herself as 'Zenith Magritta'. Not long after that, Claude laughed.

"Oh, I see."

No one here understood what Claude meant. Then, Claude immediately walked away before I could interpret his facial expression.

"Let's go back."

I looked at Claude's back as he started to walk, then I turned my gaze back towards Zenith. And I immediately saw her sparkling face. Her blue eyes continued to follow Claude's figure which was getting further away in silence.

"Athanasia."

Claude stopped in his tracks and called out to me. My name echoed slowly, this time, Zenith's eyes turned towards me, and I immediately ran towards Claude as soon as Zenith's gaze fell on me.

"Your steps are slow."

"I'm sorry."

"It seems that the Princess is tired. Princess, if you don't mind, I will carry you to the place where the horse-drawn carriage is prepared..."

"Felix, take 10 steps back."

I walked to where the horse carriage was prepared, but I still continued to feel the gazes following me. And when I held Felix's hand to get into the open horse carriage, the ribbon wrapped around my hand fell off.

"You'd better throw that away."

Before I knew it, Claude was already holding my red ribbon in his hand.

"Isn't it already lying on the floor? You don't need to get your hands dirty with that."

I don't know what Claude was thinking all along. No…… In fact, maybe I'm the problem. Maybe it's because I always try to measure things that I don't need to think deeply about or try to interpret the meaning contained in them. I took a deep breath and opened my mouth.

"But I like it."

"Felix. Tell the tailor to make more ribbons like that."

"Understood. Tomorrow I will immediately convey it to the tailor."

Because all the items I use are custom-made, so they have to contact a special tailor just to make the ribbon. Before I could say something, Claude threw away the ribbon he was holding.

"I can give you something better than that, so you don't have to regret it."

A red ribbon encrusted with sparkling gems flew high into the sky, carried by the night wind.

"Whatever you want, just tell me."

After saying so, Claude stared at my face for a while and opened his mouth.

"Athanasia."

Claude seemed to want to say something, but for some reason, he couldn't say it easily, instead, he furrowed his brows. I didn't know what he was doing, so I just stared at his face in silence. And finally, as he whispered, I opened my eyes wide when I heard his words,

"Congratulations on your 14th birthday and congratulations on your debut today."

'Dad, I want you to be the first to congratulate my debutante.'

The words I once said to him suddenly came to mind. And then, like soap bubbles blown by someone, the words slowly floated up into the sky. Claude took my hand from Felix's as if he had never said anything, and he immediately pulled me into the horse-drawn carriage. But, because I also saw Felix who was holding back his smile, I knew that what Claude had said to me was not a hallucination.

"Haha."

I laughed when I saw Claude sitting across from me with an expressionless face.

"Father it's too late. I've already heard birthday greetings and congratulations on debutante from other people."

"So, should I take back those words?"

"Yes. Haha."

As Lily said, today was a really great debut day.

***

"Lalalalala~"

Late at night, I hum a song on the terrace, alone. Claude had stopped by the Emerald Palace, he took the time to drink tea for a while with me, and then he returned to the Garnet Palace. After that, Lily made my bed and left me in the room. But for some reason, I couldn't sleep. So, I finally got out of my bed. At that moment, a subtle whisper spread through the night air.

"Huh? I thought you were crying. Turns out you were having fun."

When I turned towards the familiar voice, I saw Lucas sitting on the balcony railing with his black hair fluttering. It was a sudden appearance as usual, but I answered without being surprised.

"Why should I cry?"

"You tore up 4 of my paper dolls."

Ugh! My dark history! It was a story about a human-shaped paper doll that Lucas made with magic to be my dance practice partner.

"I'm in a good mood right now, why are you bringing that up!?"

I mean, it's not my fault! That's because you told me to practice dancing with paper dolls! But Lucas, cruelly laughed at me when he saw me throwing a tantrum because of the paper doll.

"That's it. I knew you would. Be honest with me. Did your father say he wouldn't dance with you again?"

"No. Nobody said that."

By the way, does he know that I will step on Claude's toes today!? Whoops. You should have told me!

"Huh? Looks like you didn't just dance with your father."

"There are a lot of people who want to dance with me today……"

"So, this is also stuck from someone else?"

Suddenly, the moonlight that was in front of my eyes disappeared. With my blurred vision, I saw what seemed like a bright red light approaching. Lucas, who was sitting on the balcony railing in a relaxed position, now leaned his upper body towards me. His cold eyes seemed to be looking at something for a moment, and then he looked me straight in the eyes.

"Who did you meet today?"

At that moment, it suddenly hit me.

"Huh? I met a lot of people today."

"So, you don't know where this thing is sticking from, huh."

What's sticking? Of course, I was confused.

"Wait a moment."

Lucas spoke as if he was annoyed, then he put his hand on my forehead.

Eh? What are you doing? But, this is the same as what happened the last time I met Lucas. After I met Claude, I felt my body feel light again. Come to think of it, I didn't realize it until now, but I think there were moments when my body felt light from time to time when I spent my time together with this person.

"You were doing maintenance, and the follow-up process was a bit troublesome. I shouldn't have just saved you."

Hey, what is this guy actually doing and what is this guy actually talking about?

"You actually came up with something strange without my permission."

I became even more curious because Lucas looked at his hand that had just touched my forehead with displeasure, and then he waved his hand as if he were removing dust or dirt.

"What's stuck on me?"

"Anyway there is. Dirt."

So, what is it!? Don't keep it to yourself!

"Come in and sleep."

But Lucas just pointed his finger at me arrogantly. Then, my body automatically turned towards the room, not the terrace.

"Hey, what is this?"

"Lie down and put on your blanket."

With unknown strength, I took off the slippers I was wearing and climbed into bed. Then, the blanket covered my body up to my neck automatically.

"Listen to a lullaby."

Ttalanttalalala—

After I received the birthday gift from Lily, I put the music box next to my bed, and now the lid of the music box opened by itself, and soon the sound of soothing music flowed into my mind.

"Sleep well."

Lucas, this strange bast#rd…………… Is he actually treating me well, or badly? How ambiguous.

"Empty your head and go to sleep. Don't spend the night just lying around aimlessly."

"I was just going to sleep!"

I lay in bed and grumbled. Yes, even so…… Come to think of it, what he said when he first came here, did he come here because he was worried that I had messed up my debutante and was sad because of that? If that's the case, he should just say it honestly.

If I told him this, he would definitely laugh at me and say more nonsense. Ughhhh.

"Lucas, I hope you have beautiful dreams."

Even though I said generous things, I was actually grumbling inside. In the end, I said good night to Lucas who was still on the terrace. The shadow of the moon shone behind the gently swaying curtains. Until a moment ago, my eyes were twitching, but strangely, in an instant, I was able to fall asleep. Maybe because the surroundings are quiet and peaceful.

"Hope you also have sweet dreams."

Whooshhhh.

I closed my eyes after hearing the rustling sound that brushed my ears in my sleep. I don't remember what dream I had that night, but clearly, I fell asleep with a smile on my face.

***

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