Suddenly I Became a Princess Volume 5 Chapter 15

Translated: reireiss, MTLs-nim 

Edited: reireiss, Grammarly ssi 

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Translator Note:

This is a long long long chapter.

So...... Bear with me, please (/▿＼ )

Thank You!

***

Chapter 15 – Meeting the Supporting Character Again, an Emotional Hunting Competition

A few moments later, a delegation from Arlanta arrived.

"Princess, you should get ready for the Banquet."

I groaned inside when I heard Lily's words as I went with Claude to greet them.

I'm sure I'll be busy preparing for the Welcoming Banquet in the evening, I've been working like crazy since this morning to meet the delegates. Can't I just change clothes here?

"Well, I think I'm prepared enough, so we'll have plenty of time."

Apparently, Lily was also thinking the same thing as me. Lily and I have the same thoughts!

"There are definitely many great knights in this delegation, that's why the maids are so excited."

I shook my head when I heard Hannah's words.

I had seen them when I greeted the delegates, but all the knights had their heads lowered, so I wasn’t sure. But how could the maids see their faces? I narrowed my eyes, pushing the question out of my head.

"Then you can rest. I'll come back when it's time to get ready."

They withdrew, and I was left alone in the room.

Almost every 2 or 3 years, delegations from Arlanta and Obelia visit each other's countries. These are peaceful times, so there is no particular reason for these visits.

I wonder if Kavell Ernst was in that delegation? If this goes according to the plot of the novel, then he will appear. The knights all wore the same uniform, so it was a bit difficult to tell who it was from a distance. Besides, I'm free, so there's no harm in sneaking around and meeting them, right? I'm sure they're on their way to the Sapphire Palace.

Suddenly, I realized that I was no longer sitting on the sofa. Honestly, I don't really care whether Kavell Ernst is there or not, but I'm still curious.

Whinggg.

So, I climbed to the top of the angel statue in the Sapphire Palace.

Hey, Eonni! Don't these wings of yours look absolutely amazing? Excuse me for a moment. Oh, this is a great seat! Of course, it wasn't as refined as a stone statue, but it was good enough. Hmm, actually, I think the top of the statue is the best place to sit, but I can't bear to sit on the head of this beautiful Angel Eonni. Sticking my butt on top of an angel's head that had been painstakingly sculpted by hand, that was simply unimaginable!

As I sat on my angel statue, I saw a long procession in the distance. Unexpectedly, they needed a longer time to gather and go to the Palace which had already been prepared.

I watched the incoming procession with no expression. After all, I used invisibility magic, so I didn't have to worry about being discovered.

Let's see, is the male supporting character there?

And a while later, I saw Kavell Ernst among the knights.

Oh, yeah. There he is. Just in case, let's take a look. Has there been any major incident in <Lovely Princess> since the male supporting character appeared? I don't think there is. It seemed like he was just seasoning for the romance scene between Izekiel and Zenith, and then he just left......

"Huh?"

Suddenly, Kavell Ernst looked around him as if something was wrong. Before I knew it, I had made eye contact with him. And at that moment, Kavell Ernst's mouth fell open and his eyes widened.

"Huh! Fairy……?!"

Ugh!! I took damage!

Kavell Ernst's screams echoed around the Sapphire Palace. I immediately used magic to get away from the wings of the angel statue.

"No, Sir Ernst. Why are you suddenly shouting?"

"I'm sorry, Captain. But, there's a Fairy on top of the angel statue……"

"What's up there?"

"Huh?"

But, I've moved to the top of the tower of the Sapphire Palace. Kavell Ernst rubbed his eyes and looked around. But in the end, he couldn't find me and he just stood there blankly.

I looked at him, he looked a little more mature than I saw 3 years ago. Then, I brushed my hand across my chest.

Ah, what a surprise. Whether it was then or now, the Supporting Character always surprises me in the most unexpected places. Apparently, he had the instinct of an animal to find me sitting on Angel Eonni's wings, but this time I didn't feel panic, perhaps because I had learned over the years. By the way, if Kavell Ernst can still see me now, does that mean he still has that artifact from back then?

Arlanta delegation enter the Sapphire Palace, then I returned to the Emerald Palace.

***

"Thank you for giving such a personal welcome."

There was no sign of Kavell Ernst at this Dinner Banquet. I looked around for a moment, but quickly returned my gaze to the table. After all, it must be difficult to find a male supporting character amidst a crowd like this.

Come to think of it, it seems like the place where Zenith and Kavell first met in the novel wasn't the Banquet Hall either.

"Also, it is truly an honor that this year we were able to see the Obelia's Beautiful Flower, Princess Athanasia up close..."

The delegate from Arlanta began to exchange pleasantries with thanks while smiling at Claude, then he turned to me.

Hmm, did I mention Duke Celloid? He was a man with a mustache. Are mustaches still a trend in Arlanta today?

"Thank you. I hope you have a pleasant time while at Obelia."

In the novel, it seems that this was the year that Zenith first met the Arlanta delegates, resulting in the Supporting Character, Kavell Ernst 'falling in love' at first sight with Zenith, and that led to a fierce rivalry with Izekiel…… Although it didn't get to the point of…… Ahem, but still.

While Izekiel seemed to casually ignore Kavell, it seemed Zenith was happy to meet a supporting character who had a cheerful and enthusiastic personality.

Of course, it wasn't the joy of meeting the opposite sex she liked, but more like the joy of seeing the neighbor's puppy wagging its tail happily every time it met you, but…… Thinking about it, made salty water come out of my eyes (crying). What a poor supporting character!

“Ah, and by the way. Princess, are you 2 years older than His Highness Dyce? Perhaps next time, it would be nice if we could arrange a meeting between Princess Athanasia and His Highness Dyce. What do you think? I think the two of you would be a perfect match, like a match made in Heaven……”

Kwanggg! Krakkkkk!

At that moment, I heard a sound like something had broken from next to me. Ugh, I think he's going to say something unpleasant to Duke Celloid!

"The plate is as thin as paper."

Claude muttered darkly as he stared at his plate which had been split down the middle. No, how can you slice meat until the plate breaks like that? It's not because the plate is thin!

"By the way, what did you just say? I think I heard some nonsense."

“T-That……”

As soon as the servants rushed over and tidied up the table, Claude turned to the Duke Celloid and as if asking, 'What's wrong?' and was immediately answered that it was nothing.

I clicked my tongue as I looked at Claude who was looking at Duke Celloid with cold eyes.

Oh my, my foolish father, you can’t just say things like that! You can’t just touch the nose hair of a sleeping lion! His Highness Dyce is a descendant of the Arlanta Royal Family, and just now he said that it seemed like His Highness Dyce and I were a match made in Heaven! If you just carelessly stick a man into my life, then I curse you.

“Duke Celloid, it is clear that Princess Athanasia is the next heir to the throne. Even if it would be better if we were on good terms with His Highness Dyce, Duke Celloid’s words……”

The other delegates who were next to the Duke Celloid spoke while breaking out in cold sweat. I think he said something about speaking in a low tone…… My ears caught their conversation, perhaps my hearing improved after I absorbed the branch of the World Tree that Lucas gave me, so I could hear their conversation clearly.

"No, what did I say?"

"Aren't you trying to create a confrontation?"

Yes, that was the biggest problem. The rumor that I was Claude's heir had spread openly to other countries. Even if I didn't inherit the throne directly, there was a high possibility that the man I would marry would become the next Emperor of Obelia.

And Dyce, who is the grandson of the King of Arlanta, will become the next King to replace his father, the current Crown Prince of Arlanta, after the death of the current King who is already aging. So, it would be absurd if he and I were matched.

Tsk, tsk. Even if it was just to lighten the mood and make a joke, it wouldn't work if that person was Claude. Besides, even if you're serious, isn't that the same as bullsh!t?

"How could she, a weak woman, ascend to the throne?"

But then, after hearing the Duke Celloid's whisper, suddenly I felt that my blood was boiling.

"Even though the position of Empress is currently vacant, a Prince from the legitimate lineage might be born in the future, and if that happens, of course the order of succession to the throne will change. Since you are a beautiful Princess who is as delicate as a flower, wouldn't it be better for you to marry His Highness Dyce rather than engage in a cruel battle for the throne? Traditionally, a woman's greatest happiness is to live a good life under the protection of her husband……"

Dug! Trakk!

The sound of something breaking resounded in the Banquet Hall again. The 2 people sitting across from me suddenly turned their gaze towards me when they heard that voice. I smiled and relaxed my grip.

Duk! Trangg! Kraakkk!

"Oh, my goodness. I'm sorry."

"Huh!"

Then, the fork and knife I was holding actually broke into 2 pieces, and the fork and knife landed on the table. Looking at the tableware that was not only bent, but completely broken, Duke Celloid and the other delegates could only open their mouths in astonishment.

"S-She broke the cutlery in half with her bare hands……"

"Sometimes I'm like this because I have a lot of magic power in my body. Ah, but I've never done anything wrong like this to a human."

"I-I see……"

I laughed, "Hohohoho" with a bright face at those who could only remain silent in contemplation.

Seriously, what do you mean by 'weak woman' and 'a woman's greatest happiness is living a good life under the protection of her husband'? The hell with all that! You'd better throw away all those thoughts.

After Claude and I showed off our superpowers, Duke Celloid also looked a little surprised.

"All the tableware is fragile, I'm worried I won't be able to use it."

Besides, I wasn't the only one annoyed by his words, next to me, Claude had already crushed his tableware into powder.

"I think we should replace it with something more durable. Don't you think so?"

Claude and I had that conversation naturally, then we got new tableware from the servants.

I also felt satisfied because the next dinner was held in a very pleasant environment.

***

"Huh!"

That voice, it was something familiar. I turned towards the source of the sound with the umbrella in my hand. The person who appeared in front of me while I was strolling in this Flower Garden was a knight, Kavell Ernst. His curly brown hair swaying in the wind and dreamy blue eyes, he was wearing the uniform of an Arlanta knight, and he was looking at me with a blank expression. Just like Izekiel, Kavell has clearly shed his childish face since 3 years ago, but the words he speaks make him look like a very innocent child.

"Yo, Miss Fairy!"

Yes, I do look a bit like a fairy because I look like Mother Diana, I muttered to myself -half resigned. Keughh. But, it feels like I've become much less shameless compared to 3 years ago because I can think about things like this so casually.

"Ahem."

Aish, Felix! Did you laugh just now?

I felt a little embarrassed when I heard Felix coughing next to me. Of course, he was as kind as Lily, so maybe he didn’t laugh because he heard me being called ‘Fairy’. I think he laughed because he found it funny that a grown man was looking at me and saying such words, which made him look childish. T-That's true, right……?

"Sorry to disappoint you, but I'm not a fairy."

I said to Kavell Ernst who still had a blank facial expression. Then, for a moment, Kavell seemed to think about what I said and he was surprised as if he realized something.

Ah, looking at that look on his face, I think he must have realized my true identity. Well, if you don't recognize me after seeing these jewel eyes, then that's a big problem. As if 3 years wasn't long enough, he immediately came to his senses and apologized to me politely.

"Please forgive me, Princess Athanasia!"

"Please allow me to introduce myself to you."

"My name is Kavell Ernst, a member of the 2nd Rank Knights of Arlanta. Although I am still not good enough, I was assigned to accompany the delegates on this visit. May the blessings of glory and greatness bless the Little Sun of Obelia."

Uwaa? Doesn't he look pretty normal now? Ah, no, of course, that doesn't mean Kavell Ernst is an abnormal person…… I mean, compared to when I saw him at School in Arlanta 3 years ago, he's already big, or should I say, mature.

Judging from the way he called me a fairy earlier, I think he still has a naive side, but his behavior has become a little more weighty than before. Hmm, considering how confused I was when we first met 3 years ago, I guess it could be said that the two of us have grown a lot.

"I assume you're out for a walk alone?"

"Yes! Looks like I went the wrong way because I was feeling a little frustrated and needed some fresh air."

Kavell Ernst spoke spontaneously. From the breathless way he spoke, it was clear that he was taken aback by this unexpected encounter.

“I-I apologize for what happened earlier. The Miss Fairy I know, no…… I mean, someone I know…… Ah, no, I wouldn't say that I know you, it's just that you look very similar to someone I know. I've met before, so I thought that you were……"

As he stammered with a slight blush on his cheeks, my mood turned a little subtle. I felt that these words were similar to what I heard when I met Izekiel at the Dessert Cafe not long ago, but the taste was very different. Right?

"Oh, I see."

Hmm, but if I said that the Fairy he saw before was really me. Ughhh, for some reason I feel like my conscience is being pricked. I think, maybe I shouldn't do it.

"This place is my favorite Flower Garden."

"Oops, sorry for trespassing. I didn't mean to……"

"The flowers here are really beautiful, maybe this place is indeed inhabited by fairies."

I know it happened a few years ago, but I apologize to you for sneaking to see you and making you think I was a fairy, so I won't laugh at you this time!

"Obelia is always warm all year round, so there are always flowers blooming. Maybe it was the Flower Fairy who lured Sir Ernst to come here."

"……"

"I'll go, you can take your time to explore this Flower Garden."

Kavell Ernst's facial expression actually became a little ridiculous. Hmm, there's something scary about his gaze, maybe I should go. I turned my body away from Kavell who was still in a daze. As I walked away, Felix whispered to me from the side.

"It seems the Princess has gained 1 more follower."

"Mmmm."

I-Is that so? No matter which way you look at it, it seems to be a 'falling in love at first sight' face. C-Could it be, he was supposed to meet Zenith here, but instead he met me? So he fell in love with me instead of Zenith? Arghh, I hope not......

I looked back, but my eyes caught the figure of Kavell Ernst who was still looking at me, and that made me feel even worse. I quickened my steps and ran out of the Flower Garden.

***

After that, I met Kavell Ernst again.

"Regards!"

I turned my head in disbelief when I heard the booming voice, and couldn't help but nod and greet the person who appeared before me.

"I am Kavell Ernst, 2nd Rank Knight of Arlanta!"

He introduced himself again in a booming voice, as if he thought that I wouldn't remember him. No, this isn't even the same Flower Garden where we met last time. So, it felt a little strange because we met again for the second time.

“It looks like you're out walking alone again today……?”

“No, I was having a duel with a colleague today, and I saw you passing by in the distance, so I thought……”

What?

I was speechless as I listened to his words. Are you saying that you saw me from afar and chased after me, you didn't happen to be here and now? No, why did you chase after me instead……

Kavell seemed embarrassed by the words he himself said, as if he said them by accident.

“I-I happened to find some flowers today that would be very suitable for you, Princess……”

However, the reasons he muttered actually made the atmosphere even stranger. I could feel the cold sweat running down my back.

What's wrong with you, male supporting character? You make it all sound like you're really in love with me!

“I mean, I just……Wanted to give it to you!”

And finally, when I saw what Kavell Ernst had to offer me, I felt very happy.

Wait! Aren't these the flowers in my Flower Garden? Did you pick my flowers and give them to me? What kind of strange gift is this? Isn't this a situation where I should be angry with you for picking my flowers?

But when I took my eyes off the flowers and raised my head, I found myself speechless to him. It seemed true that he was chasing me while he was dueling with his partner, Kavell Ernst —he was wearing a light shirt, not a knight's robe. His hair was messy, his trousers were dirty, and the pink flower in his hand seemed to stand out even more because of…… His attitude. Moreover, his face was slightly red, whether it was because he had run all the way here or because he felt embarrassed, he also smiled warmly……

"Thank You."

Isn't that cute?

I accepted the flowers, praising him generously because he was the type of character who could make Zenith laugh.

When I received the flowers, Kavell Ernst looked happy, he looked like a big puppy. He looks like someone who can show his feelings easily, and I like that.

"Does this suit me?"

"You look amazing!"

I asked him suddenly while holding a flower and laughing cheerfully, then Kavell nodded in agreement.

"You really are Miss Flower Fairy, Princess."

Simultaneously, even Felix who was beside me agreed.

C-Cough. But, Flower Fairy? That's embarrassing. What a shame. I think it would really be better if I cut ties with this Male Supporting Character!

"I will put it in a vase in my room. Thank you for the gift, Sir Ernst."

I turned away from Kavell with a smile on my face. My back kept tickling as if he had been staring at me until now. Finally, after walking a long way, I returned to the Emerald Palace and met Lucas in my room. It's been quite a while since he last came to my room.

"How long have you been here?"

Lucas leaned against the back of the sofa, flipping through the pages of a book with a bored movement, then he turned to me, and once he saw what was in my hand, he asked.

"What flower is that?"

"I got it as a gift."

Right at that moment, Lucas' eyebrows rose.

"Of whom?"

"Anyway, there is, from a supporting character who is like a puppy."

"Hmph."

Lucas lowered the hand holding the book, and he casually stretched out his other hand towards me. Without thinking, I handed him the flower I was holding.

"Aren't these flowers from your garden? What kind of gift is this?"

Keugh, this kid. You stabbed me right where it hurts.

“It is a gift because it contains the heart of the person who gave it.”

Yes, don't ignore the gift from Kavell Ernst! I mean, I was thinking the same thing as you, but there was a mismatch between his appearance and his actions, so it looked quite funny. Hmm, but this is definitely scary. I feel like I've accidentally made a man who was supposed to fall in love with Zenith become…… Is this because Zenith isn't in the Palace like the story in the novel? Is the Flower Garden really the place where they first met? Ugh, I can't remember.

Crip, Crip.

I pondered for a moment, then turned my head when I heard the sudden chirping of birds.

"What are you doing?!"

I immediately shouted while straightening my body.

"That puppy or something, hasn't he given you a nice gift? Your pet bird seems to really like it."

What caught my attention was Lucas putting the flowers in a cage! Then, I saw Bluie in the cage incubating the flower!

"The pup must have recognized your bird's taste and gave this to you, I think it's fine to give it to you once in a while as a treat."

Crip! Crip!

Lucas said those words and then smiled brightly. I rushed over to him, but the flowers had fallen off, only the petals and stems remained.

I watched in disbelief as Bluie pecked, picked, chewed, and enjoyed the flower petals strewn across the floor of his cage.

"Are you an elementary school student? Why did you give my very beautiful flower to Bluie?"

"Because I don't like it."

"What?"

"Don't those flowers look ugly?"

What?! That is an insult to my flowers!

"This is a beautiful flower! Do you know how much effort the Imperial Gardener put into making it?"

"I don't know and I don't want to know, but I'll give it back to you."

Hwaaa.

Just then, a sweet scent hit my nose. When I realized, I was already buried in a pile of pink flowers. I stared at Lucas in disbelief, but he just smiled in satisfaction as he saw me buried among the flowers he had summoned.

"It's much prettier than that flower."

"Aren't these the same flowers as those flowers?"

"No, it's not the same."

Is he joking with me? No matter which way you look at it, it's clearly the same flower! What makes it different?

But then, I noticed something strange, and I realized that he had also done the same thing in the horse-drawn carriage at the last picnic. He took my gloves and threw them away, then he made new gloves for me. After that, he said that my gloves were dirty because Izekiel had touched them, and now he said that he didn't like the flowers that Kavell gave me……

At that moment, I wanted to say, 'What?'

"Lucas, you……"

"Ah, okay. You don't need to thank me. It's not a big deal."

"Not that……"

"Then? If you want something else, just tell me, and don't accept gifts from other people."

When I heard it, again I wanted to say, 'What?'

"And don't give anything to anyone else again. It's a hassle to go and deal with it."

Lucas narrowed his eyes for a moment, I thought about what he was talking about. Then, I was stunned and asked him a question.

"To whom do I give something?"

"You gave it to the old man in the Tower, research materials."

Ah, hair? Tower Master Grandpa has been experimenting with my hair lately, and Lucas must have heard about it. But, deal with it? D-Deal what?

"When I first heard it, I was more upset than I thought."

Lucas said that while taking a flower from this pile of flowers. He was still smiling, but I could catch the coldness in his eyes, and I grimaced. Only then, did I realize that the reason he came here today was to say all that.

"It's just a strand of hair."

"Yeah, it's just a strand of hair."

Without realizing it, I immediately made an excuse. Honestly, I don't care who I give it to, it's up to me! Ugh, but somehow Lucas seems to be in an unusual mood, so to be honest, I'm a little scared.

"Because of that, I thought about killing them all."

Whooaaaaa, killed who? Tower Master?!

"Just now, I destroyed his laboratory."

I'm relieved to hear that. Of course, I didn't think that Lucas would actually kill that Grandpa, but somehow, his words sounded serious, so I felt very nervous.

"I don't think you'd like it if I killed them all."

"Yes! A person is only truly mature if he can control his anger……"

"But thinking about it again, makes me feel annoyed again."

"What?!"

Who is this crazy person? After doing something good by holding back, why are you in a bad mood again?! Then, the words Lucas said next made me feel strange.

"I mean, without realizing it, you have put 'limits' on me."

"Lucas……"

"Not only that, I also feel like I'm being made weak."

I couldn't speak and could only stare at the face in front of me.

"So, don't accept anything from anyone and don't give anything to anyone."

Hwaaakk.

The flower in Lucas' hand immediately turned into white ash and scattered in the air.

"I don't know what I'm going to do next."

With those words, Lucas stared at my face for a moment before he finally disappeared from my sight. The flower petals that had turned to ashes fell soundlessly to the floor where he was before.

I thought pensively, buried among the mounds of flowers.

Lucas…… Hey, did you just confess your feelings to me……?

***

Argh. Lucas, you dog. You know a lot of things and you don't realize it?

I kept thinking about Lucas' words and behavior since yesterday. The tone in which he said that was clearly a confession, but he said it like, "It's a confession! An indictment! Dang, Dang!*" I couldn't help but scratch my head. Maybe because the target was Lucas, a person who had a reputation as the Crazy Person. I wonder, did he do that because of his possessiveness? Because, he always said that I was his.

T/N: The word ‘Dang, Dang’ here refers to the sound of a hammer being knocked. So, Athi felt that Lucas was speaking like a judge who was handing down a sentence to a defendant. As a result, Athi was confused whether Lucas was really declaring his love for her or just being possessive.

But, when the word 'possessive' appeared in my head, I immediately felt afraid. Doesn't that word sound familiar to you? Doesn't that word make you feel uncomfortable? Moreover, it's not like I have any weaknesses or anything……

"Princess, how are you? May Obelia's prosperity be with you."

While I was walking and lost in my own thoughts, someone greeted me from across the street.

"It's been a long time, Lord Alphaeus. How are you?"

I smiled at Duke Alphaeus I haven't seen in the Palace for a long time, and he smiled back at me and started talking.

"Thank you for your attention. And by the way, I can't help but admire your beauty which is shining more and more every day."

"I also think that you are getting younger by the day, Lord Alphaeus."

Hahaha, hohoho. We complimented each other and stared at each other's faces for a while, we seemed excited.

"Are you on your way to see Father?"

"Yes."

Then, this Albie coughed loudly and spoke in a low voice.

"Actually, it just so happens that my son is at the Palace right now."

"Is that so?"

"Yes, I heard that in the delegation group there were alumni who studied with him when he was still a student in Arlanta."

"Oh, I see."

However, I didn't want to give Roger Alphaeus the reaction he wanted, because it was obvious to me why he was saying all of that right now. When I answered him flatly, Duke Alphaeus wiggled his eyebrows. His expression seemed to say, 'I can't believe you would react so casually to my Izekiel!' Well, I guess I was the only one who reacted casually to Izekiel's presence. If it were any other Young Lady, they would have run away in a panic while flapping their skirts.

But, I prefer to tease this Albie. Then, Roger Alphaeus, who felt that the news of Izekiel's visit did not interest my ears, played a different card.

"Hmmm. Zenith, she's also coming with us, and I'm sure she'll be happy to come to the Palace whenever you call her."

"Miss Magritta is at the Palace now?"

"Yes, she's here."

This one was a bit of a success. In fact, since the last Tea Party, Zenith never came to the Palace again —even when I called her. Maybe there was one thing or another going on, so I thought about visiting her, but I was too busy with Claude 's assignment, 'Use the magic formula to make the seeds grow as efficiently as possible!'.

“I'm sure you'll be hard-pressed to find her in this vast Imperial Palace, so if you send someone to……”

"No need, I can use magic and I'll know immediately where she is."

I'm completely unrestricted in using magic within the Palace, so it's pretty easy for me to find someone if I want to. Actually, it's a magic I don't usually use, but……

Ugh. To be honest, it's not my style to speak openly and brag like this. But, not the Albie. Maybe I'm like this because I'm subconsciously trying to warn him. I'm not like Athanasia in the novel who has no power or ability, so don't act rashly.

"They are in the Training Hall used by the knights."

I snapped my finger and a brilliant multicolored flash of light erupted like nothing and shot past Duke Alphaeus. I grinned at him as he stared confusedly at the light image. After a while, he looked at my face for a moment, then grinned.

"Princess, your abilities have been extraordinary from the start, and are only getting more extraordinary. I am happy to be your servant."

Hmph. I stared at him with narrowed eyes for a while, but I soon smiled and turned to leave.

"I think it wouldn't hurt to take a walk to the Training Hall, and see Young Master Alphaeus before it's too late. May Obelia's prosperity be with you."

"May Obelia's prosperity be with you."

I parted ways with Albie and started walking away.

"Princess, are you going to the Training Hall?"

"I don't know."

When Felix, who was following me, asked that, I answered a little shakily. I really want to meet Zenith, but I'm a little afraid of the Albie, even though he seems very friendly to me from what I've seen so far, but still. Besides, it wasn't just Zenith who was there, Izekiel was there too……

Originally, I was on my way to the Tower, but to do that I had to pass by the Training Hall used by the Imperial Knights. I decided to think about it again and kept going.

But, if she was together with Izekiel now, wouldn't that mean she met Kavell Ernst? Hmm, is this the first meeting between the Heroine and the Male Supporting Character? And is this the first time Kavell Ernst 'falls in love' with her? You must be wondering!

"Felix, let's stop by the Training Hall for a moment."

"Yes, Princess."

The meaning of 'stopping by for a while' was to leave the servants behind me and go there alone in peace. Although I wanted to satisfy their curiosity, I didn't want to draw their attention to myself.

"Hyaa! Hap!"

In the Training Hall, the knights were still training hard today. I stepped calmly amidst the thunderous cheers.

Hmm, is it just me, or do the knights really seem to have more energy today?

And when I got closer, I realized why.

Aha, so they all got excited because there was a beautiful girl watching them?

I looked at Zenith, her long brown hair flowing beneath her frilly parasol, and I thought that was truly an extraordinary thing for knights. I mean, I can see the knights going back and forth here, and I can see that they are watching Zenith closely, which is natural since the target is Zenith, the Heroine.

That's what romance novels are for. Fantasy of knights pledging themselves to a noble lady. I immediately remembered the romantic novel that I was bored of reading yesterday.

"Cue! One, two!"

"One two!"

"Horizontal slash! Hap!"

"Hap!"

However, unlike the Imperial Knights who were training on cue, there were some people who seemed to be having fun in one corner.

Ah, it's Kavell Ernst and Izekiel. If you look around, they are the ones Zenith saw. So, those Knight Oppas were just wasting their time. Oops, I'm embarrassed!

"He is the knight who gave the Princess flowers the other day, and it turns out he is the Arlanta Alumni that Duke Alphaeus was just talking about. What a strange coincidence."

Felix said, sounding a little surprised.

I had never seen Izekiel duel like that before, so I was interested to see it. Kavell and Izekiel are both holding wooden swords, but somehow Izekiel seems to be slacking off?

"It's a tie. As rumored, Young Duke Alphaeus is good at literature and martial arts."

The result was a draw, as Felix said. Apparently, none of them put up the best fight (seriously), but I guess I can understand Izekiel being like that. The best man in Obelia!

I saw the two men approaching Zenith, then I walked away.

"Let's go, Felix."

"Are you sure you want to just leave like this?"

Felix said those words while giving me a father's smile.

"Even though you keep your eyes on your friend all the time."

Oh, no. He caught me secretly watching Zenith! My Felix is different now! He is very responsive! I was impressed, but I'm not happy about it now, ugh!

"Yeah, but……"

But somehow, somehow I don't want to see her now. I was just about to say that I was done looking and was going to leave, but when I turned towards the dueling venue, I saw a pair of golden eyes caught in the afternoon sun.

Ah, I made eye contact with Izekiel. How could he turn this way? Even though I have been standing here so calmly, inconspicuously. Hmmm, I don't know.

I felt a little embarrassed, like someone who had been caught snooping. Oh, no. Me, peeking? Ughhh.

"The three of them are looking this way."

"That's because of you, Felix."

I snorted, grumbling in my heart. I had to smile because they looked back at me.

"Princess Athanasia, may Obelia's prosperity be with you."

"Young Master Alphaeus, Miss Magritta, and Sir Ernst, nice to meet you."

The three had different expressions on their faces, Izekiel smiled at me, Zenith also smiled but there was a hint of discomfort in her eyes. And Kavell Ernst, he looked nervous but then his face immediately brightened up when I greeted them.

"It seems you've met him before."

Izekiel seemed to ask me, clearly he felt something was wrong with his friend.

"Yes, we met at the Dinner for the Arlanta Delegates."

"Yes! It's an honor to meet you again!"

I purposely didn't talk about the flowers I received from him at the Flower Garden the other day.

By the way, Supporting Character, why do you blush when you see me? The woman you are supposed to love is next to you, and that woman standing there looks so beautiful and flowery, she is within your reach!

"I was very grateful at that time!"

To my surprise, he turned to me and exclaimed a profuse thank you.

"I am very happy that the Princess accepted the flower!"

Gosh, it's amazing. He even mentioned flowers!

"Flower?"

"Flower?"

Now, questions from Izekiel and Zenith echoed, piercing my ears.

"I found a flower that seemed to suit the Princess, and I wanted to give it to her!"

You're trying to play around in the fire pit!

"Thank you, I will accept your gift."

“Hah, you will accept the gift……?!”

Ugh, what's with that reaction? Stop squirming shyly like that!

I turned my head and saw Izekiel's eyes widen for a moment when he saw his friend's strange behavior.

"It's been a long time, Miss Magritta."

I took my eyes off Kavell Ernst and turned towards Zenith, and she looked at me curiously. Zenith still looked a little uncomfortable with the situation, but she didn't show it.

"Yes. I also didn't expect to meet the Princess today, but I'm glad to meet you."

"Hmmm, does that mean you plan to just leave without seeing me today?"

“Ah, no, that's not it……”

I'm sorry, I wanted to tease you for a moment. Zenith's lips curved in embarrassment at my ridiculousness. It's really cute , but I don't want to embarrass her, so I guess I'll change the subject. However, before I could do so, Izekiel came to the rescue.

"I'm sure, I don't need to introduce him to you, but Kavell Ernst is an old friend of mine who once studied with me in Arlanta. Today, I came to the Palace just to meet him, and please forgive me for inadvertently showing you my rude informal side."

Erm, you said that because you know that I saw your duel! I felt a little embarrassed, but in the end I spoke confidently.

"Thank you for the explanation. Your extraordinary duel made me stop in my tracks when I passed the Training Hall."

"Oh, you saw our duel?!"

Kavell Ernst reacted passionately to my words.

"Izekiel, let's duel one more time!"

"I thought we'd only do it once."

"Earlier it was a draw, so the duel is null and void. Let's have a duel!"

"Hmmm."

Izekiel had refused, but for some reason he turned to me as if he was going to change his mind.

"Princess, if you allow it, I will leave for a moment."

"Go ahead. I'll be here with Miss Magritta."

Hearing my words, Zenith looked at me with an 'Ah!' look. However, the two people had already left. I smiled broadly and waved my hand at them.

"Zenith, sit here."

I draped the shawl that was over my shoulders on the grass and called Zenith. She shook her head in surprise.

"That would be rude, I'd better……"

"It's okay, sit down."

I pulled the reluctant Zenith closer and sat beside me, then she squirmed uncomfortably as if she felt uncomfortable sitting on my shawl.

I looked at her from the side and nudged her.

"You don't look very happy. Did something happen to you?"

"There isn't any."

I do not think so……

But the answer was so blunt, so I couldn't ask further. Usually, such denials actually indicate that something is up. I was still thinking about the last Tea Party when Zenith went to the restroom and came back later than I thought. Then as soon as she came back, she just stared at me and the other Young Ladies from the corner of the tea party place…… And besides, Claude……

"……"

Wordlessly, I looked at Zenith's face and remembered the conversation I had with Claude not long ago.

 

'You want to attend the hunt that's being held in a few days?'

The hunt that Claude meant was a friendly demonstration event which would be attended by delegates from Arlanta. So, I have to show my face as a Princess.

'Yes, although I won't be hunting myself.'

'Okay, if that's what you want.'

Claude immediately agreed. But, what he said after that left me speechless.

'Athanasia.'

'Yes?'

'I heard you invited Magritta as one of the guests at your Tea Party.'

The name Magritta that came out of his mouth was enough to make my heart beat fast.

'I've said it before, don't get too attached to her.'

As he said that, Claude had an indifferent facial expression, as if he was unaware of what he had just said. Actually, he'd said that to me before, and I was stunned, so I asked, 'Why?' and he answered, 'Because, even if you did, you wouldn't be able to see her again'. After hearing that, I remembered that Zenith lived in the Alphaeus Residence using the Magritta family name. However, I wonder if Claude said those words for another reason?

I stared at his face for a moment, then grinned mischievously.

'Hmph. Dad, you're jealous, right?'

Right at that moment, Claude's eyes widened.

'What do you mean jealous? You think I would do something stupid like that?'

'Oh, don't worry. I have the best Dad in the world, and no matter how many friends I have, they won't be able to beat you, Dad!'

'That is for sure.'

I teased him again for a while, Claude just snorted as if he was laughing.

 

Mmm. That's enough for today's memories!

I took my eyes off Zenith and looked towards the training ground.

"Hah, Princess!"

"What?!"

"Princess?!"

However, the knights who saw me looked surprised, and immediately greeted me with knightly manners. I turned to the Captain who was rushing towards me, I told him to ignore me and continue their training, then I sat back in my seat.

"Line up! Start stabbing! Hya!"

"Hyaa!"

Ah, their screams became louder than before, that's the reason why I tried to be quiet in the first place. I clicked my tongue secretly. Zenith looked at me curiously, wondering what I was thinking, but somehow her expression seemed a little darker.

"Actually, I met Lord Alphaeus on my way here."

"Oh, really?"

"Yes, he told me that Young Duke Alphaeus and Zenith came to the Palace together."

"I heard he was Izekiel's friend at school, and I wanted to know what he was like, so I asked to come along."

Yes, of course. It's normal to want to know about the friends of someone you like. Even in Obelia, Izekiel seemed a bit of a loner, so I don't think he really had anyone he could call a friend. Of course, there were many noble children close to him.

"That's similar to me. I came here because I heard that Zenith was here, even though I should have gone to the Tower."

Hearing my words, Zenith's head moved from where it had been staring at the training ground. I looked into her blue eyes and said,

"Zenith hasn't seen me lately, so I think this is a good time to meet."

I could see shallow ripples in her pupils. It was clear that something had happened to her, and whatever it was, it must have been no small thing to her since she seemed so depressed to this day.

"Maybe I wouldn't be here today if I hadn't been told that Zenith was here."

Even if it was someone else —not Zenith, I would say, 'I don't know what's going on, but if you're having trouble, let me know. I'll be there to support you'. But, I didn't do it. Because, even without Claude's words, I knew that it was the least I could do for her.

"Princess, I really like you."

"I like you too, Zenith."

Maybe, the 'like' we said to each other weren't the same thing, and that's why I felt sorry for her, and that's also the reason why I didn't know if I could fully accept her or cut ties with her.

"Princess, you always say what I want to hear, and that's very strange."

This was similar to what Zenith felt several years ago when she cried over the death of her aunt, Countess Rosaria.

"Oh my God, unbelievable!"

Just at that moment, I heard a scream from the other side of the training ground, and I turned there to see Kavell Ernst. For some reason, I felt that Kavell had been defeated by Izekiel, and now their duel was finally over.

"Looks like Izekiel won."

Zenith said, her face looked much brighter than a moment ago.

"Yeah, I was too busy talking with you, so I didn't have time to see their duel."

"Neither do I."

As we watched the two approach, we faced each other and smiled.

"You two are amazing."

"Huh, really?"

"Yeah, you guys are awesome."

The atmosphere around Kavell Ernst sank, he was like a big, gloomy dog, but then he regained his spirits after hearing the praise from me and Zenith. His features shone brighter than Zenith's, his pupils shining like glass beads. Wow, if you look around, isn't Kavell Ernst also quite handsome? Maybe because I only see good-looking people, my eye standards have risen. It can't be helped, isn't he a supporting character?

"Actually, at the Academy, I was better than Izekiel in martial arts subjects!"

"Wow, I'm curious about stories about your school days."

"I'll tell you everything next time we meet."

Of course, the perfect form of Zenith's words would be 'I wonder about Izekiel in his school days!', but whatever. I looked at Zenith and Kavell Ernst who looked like they were really enjoying their conversation, and I shook my head —wondering if the arrow of love had finally been fired.

"Izekiel, let's duel again!"

"Isn't 2 times enough?"

"If you are a man, then you have to do it 3 times! One more time! One more time!"

Very competitive supporting character. Cool. But, he was too pushy. Zenith studied Kavell with a slightly ambiguous expression. Only Izekiel reacted as if he was used to it.

"Princess Athanasia!"

Wow, who called me? This time, the voice came from behind. I turned my head in the direction the voice came from, and not long after, I froze in my place.

"You are here!"

It turned out to be Lucas and one of the mages from the Tower. It wasn't Lucas who called me, but the mage next to him, someone I had gotten to know well during my trips to and from the Tower.

"Princess, you didn't show up, so we went to look for you!"

"I thought you got lost on your way to the Tower."

Those last words were the words Lucas said. Even though he said it while smiling as if he was a good mage, those words were a very impolite thing to say.

"Sorry if I kept you guys waiting, I met some nice people on my travels."

I mean, usually you don't care if I come early or late, you're too busy doing your own thing! Why did you guys come to pick me up today? Additionally, I became bothered by the fact that there seemed to be a sharp electric current between Izekiel and Lucas for some reason!

"Waaa, the Mages of Obelia’s Black Tower!"

But, the electric current was neutralized by Kavell's scream. Good job for now, Supporting Character!

"Ah, so you're from Arlanta?"

The Tower Mage exclaimed when he saw the symbol of the Kingdom of Arlanta on Kavell's clothes .

"If you don't mind, may I invite you to a duel?"

Ugh, as if facing Izekiel wasn't enough, now he wants to challenge a mage?

Tring!

 

[A duel request has been received from Kavell Ernst (Knight of the Arlanta 2nd Rank Knight Order), will you accept it?]

 

A quest suddenly flew towards a mage from Obelia's Black Tower. But, he was confused and decided to reject it.

"Because of the magic I'm researching, I can't use magic freely."

 

[He rejected the request].

 

Kavell Ernst's expectant gaze turned towards Lucas, but he might as well reject it, because he looked like he was really annoyed —even though right now, he was cosplaying as a Good Mage!

"Let's have a duel, Sir Mage!"

"I think it would be better if you duel with the knights in this Hall."

"Since the first time I heard about the Obelia’s Black Tower, I have wanted to fight the mages from that Tower! I heard that the Obelia Imperial Family limits the use of magic power in the Palace, so if you feel overwhelmed, you can just use defensive magic spells! If you find it difficult, feel free to ask me to stop! I won't push you too hard!"

"C-Cough, cough!"

A cough came out from the mage who was beside Lucas, and I found myself looking at Kavell whose pupils were shining brightly.

Stop it! You've touched the nose hairs of a sleeping lion! There's nothing about Lucas that can make him underestimated! And now, you're treating him like someone weaker than you, right in front of his face? Are you the same as a cat who has 9 lives?

"Heehhh."

Lucas raised the corners of his mouth, and I felt goosebumps on my neck when I heard the soft voice that came from his lips.

"T-This is murder."

That was what the Tower Mage next to him said, and soon he spoke with a trembling voice.

"Ah, there's nothing to worry about, it's a duel after all, how could something scary happen? I know that mages are naturally weak, so I'll be as gentle as possible."

"T-That's not it……"

It's your life we're worried about!

"So, this time you want to duel a mage?"

Beside him, Zenith asked curiously. Izekiel glanced back and forth between Lucas and Kavell as if he was considering something. Was he trying to see which of them had a better chance of winning? Kavell's eyes were still sparkling, oblivious to the bleak future that lay ahead. Finally, Lucas smiled eerily.

"Okay. Then, I'll give you a few minutes of my time."

Tring!

 

[Duel Request Accepted!]

 

For a moment, it was as if a notification appeared before my eyes, indicating that the quest it has worked.

Aah, even though he is a good supporting actor……

I and a Tower Mage who came with Lucas looked at Kavell Ernst who immediately ran over excitedly, and behind him was Lucas with a sad look.

"This will be an interesting duel."

"In a sense, it's interesting."

"Princess, who do you think will win?"

I saw them walking in sequence starting from Felix, Izekiel, and Zenith. Then, I turned to the Tower Mage who had been staring at Kavell Ernst……

"Oh, God……"

Wow, he was praying to God!

“Please save that poor living creature. Make it as painless as possible…… Ugh, let him die as soon as possible……”

But the prayer is terrible! I mean, are you sure that one of them will die? However, not long after that I heard a loud, deafening roar.

Kwaanggg! Bang!

"Arghh!"

Kwaaanngggg! Prang!

"S-Save……! Ugh, Uwaaaa……!"

An ear-splitting scream echoed throughout the Training Hall.

My dear friend whom I have known for a long time~ What do you mean by goodbye? Should I go?~*

T/N: This is a snippet of lyrics from the song Auld Lang Syne (Old Long Since), a Scottish folk song. The title of the song literally means ‘Days Gone By’.

"S-Shouldn't we stop it?"

Zenith said while shaking her head.

The Training Hall was one of the few places where magic was allowed to be used, and there were usually cordons around this area during duels that saw mages taking place, so all we could see now was dirt settling on the walkway. However, every once in a while there was an explosion, a whirlwind, or a piercing scream, which told us that it was Kavell Ernst who was being beaten up in there.

"But, interfering in a sacred duel is the last thing that can be done."

"He'll be fine, he's a strong man."

"There's no way he would kill him, maybe……"

It makes sense for Felix to say that he can't interfere into this duel, but hey, Izekiel, is it okay to say that he's a strong man? That's a cool statement, and you say it with a huge smile on your face! Moreover, Sir Mage, what does the word 'maybe' mean?

Kwaaaannggggggg!

"Kwakkk!"

Of course, Kavell Ernst was the one who requested the duel, and Kavell Ernst was the one who provoked Lucas, but I wasn't sure if a third party was allowed to interfere in this duel, so Zenith and I could only roll our eyes. The knights in this place also suddenly stopped training and stared blankly towards here from a distance.

Suddenly, the sound that had been echoing throughout the Training Hall died down.

"Ah, this is refreshing."

When the dust clears, we see Lucas rubbing his hands together. No, how could he get a look of satisfaction on his face after beating someone black and blue? Gosh, but what about Kavell?!! Luckily, he was still alive. Although, he was lying on the ground like a corpse with every inch of his body injured.

Not long after, he moved and raised his hand, giving Lucas a thumbs up.

“T-That was the best duel…… Ever.”

Instantly, he fainted. We watched from a distance as the other knights at the scene walked away without him.

"He doesn't look too good, will he be okay?"

"Don't worry, he's not weak enough to faint like that."

“It's possible for him to attack while using healing magic alternately. So, he can bother him for longer…… Ugh!”

Once again, it is a dialogue between Felix, Izekiel, and the mage. Izekiel still looked calm, he still had a friendly smile, and that msge…… Ugh, is that some kind of gossip? Wait, don't cry!

"Then, the troublesome thing is over. Can we go now?"

Lucas walked over, his steps were light and he smiled cheerfully, as if he didn't know what had just happened.

“Sir Mage…… Em, you are really strong.”

Seeing that, Zenith muttered something so low that only I could hear it. But, I could tell that the image Lucas had in her mind had changed slightly.

"Okay, I'll go now……"

I felt angry, half resigned. My eyes met Izekiel's for a moment before I turned to leave, but I didn't say anything.

"That guy from earlier was quite great."

On the way to the Tower, Lucas suddenly said that. His face looked so cheerful, and I mourned for the Supporting Character again. The mage who accompanied Lucas, apparently he was fed up with what had just happened, then he insisted on going to the Tower first. Besides, I had sent Felix to check on Kavell Ernst's condition, so Lucas was the only one with me now. Well, I'm sure Lucas will manage not to get that guy seriously hurt, but I've rarely seen him praise someone like this. So, this is something new.

"Really? So, is he stronger than you think?"

"He's nothing to me, but even if he dies, he still doesn't give up."

In short, 'At first I tried to give him a good beating, but he wouldn't give up. So, I beat him until he was dying'. No, no, no, that's not a good thing. Right? That makes me feel even more sorry for Kavell Ernst! But, it was quite impressive that he didn't give up after being beaten so badly. However, Lucas' next comment made me sympathize with him.

"That bast#rd deserved a good beating, glad I did."

The look in his eyes was like a predator wanting to catch the prey in front of him! Wow. Supporting Character, run!

I walked towards the Tower, relieved that the conversation was proceeding as usual. Although, I feel a little awkward after what happened with Lucas last time.

***

"Princess, do you feel hot?"

"Is it hot outside?"

"I knew you would be hot, that's why I brought you cold lemonade."

"Oh, Seth. Thank you."

Seth smiled at my compliment. This is a simple problem that can be solved using magic. But if it's like that, then they'll feel sad because they'll have little work to do once I can use magic freely.

"This is a natural thing. I am your maid, Princess."

"That is true."

Hearing Seth's proud words, Felix nodded his head in agreement.

Of all the people close to me, only Felix and Seth took part in today's Hunt together with me. Originally, Lily was going to come with us, but she wasn't feeling well since last night, so I told her to just rest at the Palace. I was worried about leaving Lily alone, but then Hannah said that she would stay at the Palace.

"I thought it would be busy today, but it turned out to be quiet."

"The delegates from Arlanta are all men, so most of them are in the forest."

Of course, there were also some people who stayed behind and didn't go hunting, but they were the minority. In contrast, there were only half of the Obelia Nobles who went hunting, it seemed Arlanta people enjoyed hunting more.

"Princess, Sir Ernst is coming here."

Eh? He came here, but what is it? I thought he was already in the forest with the others.

"Princess Athanasia."

"Sir Ernst."

"If you don't mind my asking, could you give me a handkerchief?"

"Handkerchief?"

I looked at the person in front of me in surprise. Kavell blushed slightly and didn't make eye contact with me. This is very strange. Why was he so embarrassed over something as simple as borrowing a handkerchief? Come to think of it, why would he come to my tent to borrow a handkerchief when there were so many other people out there? Hoo, am I the only one he knows here? No, Izekiel should be out there.

"Felix, do you have a handkerchief?"

I wanted to ask Seth, but she had just left to see what was going on outside, so I turned to Felix.

"What?!"

"You mean, my handkerchief?!"

While I was talking to Felix, suddenly the two people shouted like they were playing around. Without realizing it, I gawked at the sight. Did I say something I shouldn't? What's with their reaction? And then, after a while, Felix coughed lightly and whispered in my ear.

"Princess, perhaps he didn't ask for a handkerchief because he needed one."

"So?"

"It seems to be for the promise of victory."

Oh! When I heard that, something suddenly came to mind. Come to think of it, in Arlanta, when there was a hunting or martial arts competition, there was a custom where a man received a handkerchief from a woman, and the man would tie it around his wrist or his weapon, then the man would dedicate his victory to the woman. But, it's a very old tradition, and the younger generation doesn't do it anymore because it's old-fashioned. I see, right?

"Oh, sorry. We don't have that kind of custom in Obelia. How rude of me."

"No, even in Arlanta that's not a common thing."

Kavell looks happy because he didn't get Felix's handkerchief. Suddenly, I understood why the two of them looked so panicked earlier. Keugh, it's like I'm trying to match the two of you together like the Goddess of Cupid. I'm pretty sure that Seth has my handkerchief in her suitcase……

 

'And don't give anything to anyone else again. It's such a hassle to go and deal with it.'

 

But for some reason, now Lucas appears in my head. And I hesitated for a moment, then I looked at Kavell with an apologetic look.

"But, now I don't have a handkerchief with me."

“Ah, I see……”

Instantly, Kavell Ernst's face turned sour. However, he immediately became enthusiastic again when I encouraged him and he put on an enthusiastic face again.

"I heard that Sir Ernst likes hunting and is always excited when hunting. I look forward to your cool hunt today."

"Yes, please look forward to it!"

I watched his back as he ran excitedly, even though his goal of coming here was not achieved. Oh my, he really is like a puppy. And by the way, the memory of when he was beaten by Lucas is still quite fresh in my ears. As I was thinking that, Seth came back. I got up from my seat and thought that I should go somewhere else.

***

"Princess, come here!"

Among the nobles attending today's hunting tournament, the middle-aged and younger nobles gathered separately, they were chatting. I approached the group of Young Masters and Young Ladies. Let's see, I see that Izekiel and Zenith are gone. Duke Alphaeus was nowhere to be found either, but he must have left for a reason. People greeted me as I approached. We had already exchanged pleasantries beforehand, so there was no need to bother with any more greetings.

"I can hear your laughter from a distance, is something funny?"

"Princess, have you ever met the Black Tower Mage in person?"

Oops, the topic is the Black Tower Mage!

"Yes, I met him once."

"Oh, is he really as handsome as rumored?"

I'm lost for words.

"Rumors say that he is a handsome man with dark green hair and dark eyes, is that true?"

"It's true that he is a young man with dark green hair and black eyes."

"I was just talking to the delegates because they asked if the rumors of the Black Tower Mage's return were true."

Ugh, this one is even more complicated! If I now said, 'A person claiming to be a Black Tower Mage has appeared, but it's most likely a fake.' Can't I just answer it with 'Hohoho'? But whatever I thought, I forced a smile on my face.

"I've only seen him once, and he's a little mysterious."

"Ah, is that so? I heard that he reappeared after several years of absence. And a few days ago, I also heard that the partially destroyed Palace Tower had been repaired and looked like a new building. Is it true that the Black Tower Mage came to visit the Palace Tower?"

Ah, rumors about that had spread.

I paused for a moment to think about the Imperial Mages who were crying en masse because their long-cherished wish had finally been fulfilled. It turned out that a Mage who proclaimed himself as the Black Tower Mage and introduced himself as Karax, that person had visited the Palace Tower a few days ago. Of course, the mages in the Tower were in an uproar. Didn't they all have a strong desire to welcome the Black Tower Mage, finally resuming the renovation of the Tower that they had postponed because they were upset?

 

'I have no regrets even if I die now. Uhuhuu!'

'The Black Tower Mage is in our Tower! Wow, I never thought that I would be able to witness a thrilling moment like this before I die!'

'From now on, how about we make today our Tower's anniversary!'

'Oh, these are the Black Tower Mage's footprints! Keep it forever!'

'This is the Black Tower Mage's hair! Our Tower's Heirloom!'

 

Additionally, the Fake said that the Tower's appearance looked a bit shabby, and he restored it with his magic. When Claude heard the news, he said,

 

'I heard that slugs can also roll*, so I guess the Fake One is quite clever.'

T/N: This is a proverb that means that even people without abilities must have (at least) one skill.

 

He seemed a little surprised that the Fake Black Tower Mage used more powerful magic than he thought. And when Lucas heard what happened while he was away from the Tower, he was stunned —in disbelief.

 

"You crazy bast#rd, you tried to catch me, and then you stuck your head out."*

T/N: Most likely this dialogue is just background noise spoken by one of the NPCs.

"It's the Black Tower Mage! A powerful mage and handsome man who lives almost forever!"

"I still think that Sir Lucas……"

Helena Elaine whispered, her cheeks reddened when she heard the Young Lady's words. Awwwww, the unwavering innocence of the Lily Girl!

"Kyaaa!"

"What is it?"

“Just now, I felt something on my hat……”

Just at that moment, something landed in the grass.

"A bird?"

"Isn't that a squirrel?"

"Very cute. Because it's close to the forest, it went into the tent."

"Ah, it won't attack if I touch it, right!"

"Ah, I want to touch it too."

The youngsters focused their attention on the wild squirrel, as if they had never seen a squirrel before.

"Would you like to pet it too, Princess? It's very gentle."

But, unlike the rabbit at the last picnic, I didn't approach the squirrel.

"I don't really like animals."

"Yes? Ah, but you once had a pet..."

The Young Lady who had seen Blackie at one of my Tea Parties before, covered her mouth as if she remembered something……

"Yes that's correct."

I smiled weakly at her.

"Right now, I'm raising a bluebird."

"Oh I see."

Srakkk.

"Ah, Young Master Alphaeus."

"Welcome, Miss Magritta."

That's when I felt a tap on my back. I turned around, and my eyes fell on Izekiel who had just entered the tent. Then, he opened his mouth to speak to me.

"It turns out the Princess is here."

I turned my gaze towards Zenith who was at Izekiel's side. Zenith's shoulders were wrapped in a robe that looked like a man's robe, and Izekiel only wore a shirt and vest, his appearance different from the one I saw before. I could hear the other Young Ladies muttering, 'Oohhhh' and 'Aahhhhh' to each other as they also saw the same thing I saw.

"Is it raining outside?"

I asked, noticing that their hair and clothes were slightly wet.

"Yes, it started raining little by little as we walked here."

"I'm worried about the people in the forest."

"It's just a light drizzle, they'll be fine."

The Young Ladies sitting on the chairs took turns looking at Izekiel and Zenith, then they asked Zenith.

"Did you find what you were looking for?"

"Yes, luckily it was in the horse-drawn carriage."

"Even though you could just ask the maid to take it."

"Ah, but I want to find it myself."

From the conversation, it seemed like they went to look for Zenith's lost items. Maybe it was because Izekiel was always with Zenith, so he acted very casually and said those words in a slightly harsh tone. Zenith felt it too, and looked at him with a confused expression.

"I understand Miss Magritta's feelings, I also have a little objection to entrusting the jewelry to the maid."

"That's right. I was like that too, I didn't do it because I was suspicious of the maid."

The other Young Ladies said something to Zenith and one of the Young Ladies looked at Zenith as if she wanted to say something, but what she said made the atmosphere turn cold. Ah, I guess this is just a case where 2 people got offended due to a misunderstanding.

"Miss Magritta, I'm glad you found your lost item."

I guess I should lighten the mood.

"You look a little wet, come here and dry yourself. Seth, get Miss Magritta a towel."

"Yes, Princess."

"Since it's already afternoon, I think we should just enjoy a drink."

As I spoke, one of the other Young Ladies immediately had sparkling eyes and offered Izekiel a seat.

"Young Master Alphaeus, you can also spend some time here. Besides, it's too late to go to the forest now, especially since it's raining."

"Exactly! It's just that there are only women here."

“We are here too……”

Hmmmm!

Just at that moment, the shoulders of the other Young Ladies twitched as if they had just realized something they had forgotten. Ugh, I forgot too! There are other Young Masters here too! T-Their presence is too weak……

It was a sad sight to see a group of youths whose presence had been wiped out in an instant. Initially, Izekiel planned to take part in this hunting competition, but he ended up missing it because of Zenith. If he left now, there was a high possibility that the best game would already be taken. Besides, it was also raining outside. In the end, Izekiel didn't step away, it seemed he decided to stay in this tent. Suddenly, he looked down at his cloak draped over Zenith's shoulders.

"Zenith, I think you should give the robe to the maid."

"I still want to wear it."

Zenith's words made the Young Ladies glance at her. I saw her hand gently caressing the hem of the robe draped over her shoulders, and soon Zenith lowered her head slightly and spoke again,

"I think, maybe I'm a little cold."

"Maybe it's because it's raining. Maybe you should use a blanket or something."

"It's not that bad, so it's fine."

What can I do, the atmosphere between the two of them is really warm.

"I mean, you and Miss Magritta have been very close for a long time."

"Yes, they are related after all. If you are jealous, then you will lose."

"Ugh, I'm still jealous, if he were also nice to me like that."

After going through various twists and turns, the two of them sat down in their respective seats. Hmm, the main characters are great, they still shine even when they get caught in the rain. If it were me or anyone else getting soaked like that, you would definitely look like seaweed submerged in water. Oh, no. We will be like seaweed that submerges in water and sticks to it. Ughhh.

"By the way, does the Princess keep a bluebird?"

A Young Lady asked, as if she remembered something, and I felt a little uneasy. The conversation about that continued after Izekiel and Zenith had just entered the tent. Their gazes turned to me. I also answered implicitly.

"Yes, that's correct."

"I've heard that bluebirds are difficult to keep, but what is the reality?"

"I don't know, I don't think there's anything too complicated about looking after him. Ah, maybe it's because Bluie has a calm demeanor, so he doesn't need much attention."

"Oh my, so it name is Bluie ."

I almost bit my tongue.

Ouch, without realizing it, I just said Bluie's name!

"That's a really cute name."

"That's right, just hearing the name reminds me of blue feather."

"I think it's a very beautiful name. The Princess is great."

Taking advantage of that opportunity, the Misses and Young Masters started making small talk in front of me. Wow, stop! I'm pretty sure that I know what my naming taste is like, ughh.

"That is indeed a very suitable name for that bird, Princess."

No, even Izekiel chimed in, and even though he was smiling pleasantly as usual, I could see the mischief in his smile.

That was the expression he usually showed when mocking me! He must find my current situation hilarious! And, what did he just say? He said it as if he knew about my Bluie. No, of course he knows, because he was the one who gave Bluie to me…… But, since you already know that I didn't tell anyone else about that fact, doesn't that mean that right now you're deliberately speaking in that tone of voice? The Young Lady who listened carefully to Izekiel's words immediately asked,

"Young Master Alphaeus, have you ever seen a bird, Princess?"

My eyes met Izekiel 's again. I signaled him with my eyes, but Izekiel's answer was the opposite of what I expected.

"Once, by accident."

"Oh my."

Argh, you really did it? You said that you've seen the birds I keep, I can feel that these Young Ladies' minds are immediately racing and their imaginations are running wild!

"In the past, it had a habit of pecking at hands. Is that still the case now?"

I glanced irritably at the smiling Izekiel, and I said,

"My Bluie only pecks people it doesn't like."

"Then it seems it doesn't like me."

"That's right."

Oops, did I emphasize my voice too much on the last words? I'm really annoyed with him right now, without realizing I'm acting like that. Ugh. But then, I heard a chuckle, and I turned my gaze to the sound, then I saw Izekiel who was laughing. I was silent for a moment because his eyes looking at me shone very gently. The other Young Ladies also stared blankly at the laughing Izekiel.

"Me, too."

Just then, a small voice pierced my ears. I turned towards the source of the voice and saw Zenith flinching, as if she was surprised by her own voice, but then she immediately calmed herself down and spoke again.

“I also saw the Princess’ bird.”

“Oh, really?”

“Yes, it was a very beautiful blue bird, with the tips of its wings a darker navy blue…”

Hearing Zenith's words, this time everyone's attention was focused on her.

Oh, did she help me because she thought I was embarrassed? I had never shown her the bluebird, and she already knew so much about it, could it be that she had seen it at Duke Alphaeus’s Residence before Izekiel gave it to me? It wasn’t express delivery, and Izekiel wouldn’t have given the address of the Imperial Palace to the seller at the Bird Market, so maybe Izekiel kept the bluebird at Alphaeus’ Residence for a while before sending it to the Palace.

“I am curious about such a beautiful bird. Princess, please show us the bird.”

“Yes, next time.”

I answered her with a smile.

“In Arlanta, most of us raise falcons…”

The hunting competition continued accompanied by heavy rain. Zenith still had Izekiel's cloak around her shoulders. Consciously, I averted my gaze towards them.

***

When the rain started to stop, I left them and left this tent. The place where I was previously was a gathering place for a group of young people, and now I went to look around at the people in the other tents. This is a tent for the older nobles, so I wonder if the Albie is also here.

I stepped into the tent. But, it seems they haven't noticed my presence here. For some reason, they all seem to be talking intensely…… I wonder if they are discussing politics? Oh, I see. Each country has a different agenda.

"No, do you call it a horse?"

"Did I say something wrong?"

What is it? The atmosphere didn't seem good. I turned my head back and looked at a servant standing there with an uncertain expression on his face. I told him to tell me everything that had happened here. I realized what was happening when I heard the words that came to my ears.

"Of course, His Highness Dyce is the right person for this."

"Maybe in Arlanta, but not in Obelia."

"I'm sure the Princess will change her mind after she meets His Highness Dyce."

"Princess Athanasia is not an easy person to please, and with great expectations comes great disappointment. So, I advise you to put an end to that foolish plan."

Wow, are they fighting over me now? Sparks seemed to fly between Duke Celloid and Albie. I felt hot when I listened to the conversation between them.

"Our Princess will not marry to Arlanta, that is for sure. Princess Athanasia will find a good husband in Obelia, and you can come and congratulate her to celebrate later."

"No, how can you reassure me about the future, if you know nothing about the affairs between a man and a woman……?"

I decided to step back, get out of there quietly.

“Actually, His Majesty and the Princess are still undecided about marriage, so it's no surprise that the two of them are so vocal about it now……”

As I was about to step out of the tent, I heard someone speak in a cold voice towards the Duke Celloid and Albie. I turned to the voice and walked towards it.

"I don't even think about who I'm going to feed."

"His Majesty will be very angry if he hears it."

"Hmph, what are you talking about?"

"What am I talking about?"

Felix laughed, as if the situation that had just happened was very funny. I looked at him and grumbled.

“Felix, that's not your job now…… Ah!”

Then, suddenly I felt one of my feet sink into the grass. Without realizing it, my shoes came off. The next thing I knew, I was standing barefoot on the slippery ground, wearing nothing but socks.

"Ugh."

"Oh, no. The rain must have softened the ground and caught your shoes."

As Felix said, one of my shoes got stuck in the softened ground. I'll be out of the home for a long time today, so I deliberately wore clothes that were light and easy to move around in, as well as low-heeled shoes! However, the shoes are not damaged, so I will wear them again. I noticed that Seth brought a change of clothes for me just in case, so maybe she brought shoes too? By this time, it was raining again and everyone was in the tents, so I thought I should go there too.

"I'll put it on for you."

"No, I myself……"

"Are you alright?"

Then, it wasn't Felix's voice that rang in my ears. No, what are you doing here?

“Young Master Alphaeus…… It's raining, what are you doing here?”

"The Princess hasn't come back for a long time, so I thought I'd get some fresh air..."

Not long after, his gaze turned downwards. Feeling embarrassed, I hid my muddy foot behind my other foot.

"It's not a big deal."

"If you don't mind, allow me to help you."

Then, Izekiel stepped closer and I opened my mouth in panic.

"No, Felix will help me."

"Princess, I am holding an umbrella now, and it will be difficult for me to move."

"What……"

"Fortunately Young Duke Alphaeus came at the right time. Isn't that right?"

What are you talking about?! That's not what you said before! Felix grinned from ear to ear. Oh, no, this guy?

"Excuse me for a moment."

While I was panicking, Izekiel came over, bent down, and took my shoes from behind. The shoes slipped off the grass easily, perhaps because the ground was soft.

"It might be better if you wear it in the tent."

"That's what I'm going to do."

With Felix supporting me with both arms, I had no trouble balancing on one leg. My feet can touch the ground without any problems.

Now, Izekiel was in front of me and kneeling.

"Wait, you got dirt on you."

"It doesn't matter."

I wanted him to put my shoes down and leave, but he knelt down in front of me and put them on. Izekiel’s hair was wet, even though he was under the shade of the umbrella held by Felix. I stared at him speechlessly. The image of Izekiel and Zenith when I last saw them outside suddenly flashed through my mind, and yes…… I think I know a little bit about how Zenith felt at that time. Suddenly, a soft voice came from below.

"It's amazing how your feet can fit into such tiny shoes."

Izekiel’s soft voice blended with the soft raindrops. Ugh, this atmosphere makes me feel a little nervous and embarrassed…… I retracted my leg that had been offered to him and said,

"It's not the first time you've seen women's shoes, but you're surprised."

My mind flashed back to the last time I saw Zenith and Izekiel going out together, and I wondered if I had said the wrong thing? Izekiel raised his head, he was still kneeling in front of me and our eyes met.

"Of course, this is not the first time I have seen it."

After a while, he slowly got up from his seat and stretched out his hand towards me.

"Let me take you inside, the floor is uneven and you might have trouble walking on your own."

I looked at his hand, then held it.

"Thank You."

After that, we entered a nearby empty tent. As soon as Felix left to pick up Seth, I was left alone with Izekiel .

"Young Master Alphaeus."

I glanced at him as he stood by the side of the entrance, then I opened my mouth to speak. This was something I had pretended not to know since our meeting at the Alphaeus Residence all those years ago. But, I knew that it couldn’t go on like this forever.

"I don't hate you."

Hearing my words, Izekiel's eyes turned to me.

"But,"

"I don't want to hear it."

A low voice interrupted my words. I was silent, looking at his innocent face as usual. I saw a faint smile on his lips.

"I think that's unfair."

Tik, tik, tik. The sound of very small raindrops reached my ears.

"Sometimes, I wish the Princess would stay in the cage."

Like 3 years ago, dealing with Izekiel was not easy for me.

"I'm sure you've seen a little of me."

There was a hint of coldness in his voice that hung in the slightly cold air. Izekiel wasn't as aggressive as when we met in the White Flower Garden, but the words he whispered still carried hidden emotions. Under the cloudy sunlight of this rainy day, I stared at his young face without speaking, and after a while, I looked away from him and said,

"I just wanted to thank you for your help earlier, but I didn't want you to tell anyone about what happened because I felt embarrassed."

"If that's what you want."

"And……"

I paused, then added.

"You could catch a cold from being wet like that, so make sure you go back and dry yourself properly."

Now, I could feel Izekiel's eyes on my face. But, I didn't look back at him, and not long after, a soft voice came to my ears.

"I will do it."

Tik, tik, tik.

After that, only the tune played by the raindrops filled the silence.

***

Not long after that, I took off my muddy shoes and replaced a pair of dirty socks with the knee-high socks that Seth brought me. The spare shoes Seth gave me had a slightly higher heel than the ones I'd worn before, but I was okay with that. If I had known that this would happen, I would have worn boots, but the maids said no way……

My gaze was fixed for a moment on the place where Izekiel was standing before. And then, suddenly it hit me. Oh yes! Even though with just a wave of my hand, I could make the mud disappear and take my shoes, and I didn't need Izekiel's help .

I nodded. I groaned and pushed myself up from my seat, and after I had stopped for a moment at the youth tent and the elders tent, I immediately went into my own tent under the pretext of being sick. Before I went to my own tent, I had gone into the youth tent and when I arrived there, Izekiel and Zenith were no longer there, then I was told that Zenith's health had deteriorated and they had left together.

Tuk, tuk.

The sound of rain on the tents became heavier than before. The others had retreated because I said I wanted to be alone. Maybe they were still waiting for me not far from here because the tent was divided into several sections. I sat on a soft bench and looked down at the shoes on my feet. The shoes Izekiel had put on me earlier were still covered in mud.

"Is there any money there? Why do you keep looking down at the floor?"

A few moments later, I felt a weight on my back. Those words rang in my ears amidst the sound of the rain. Only Lucas could appear unexpectedly in my private space.

"So it's dirt, not money? Why are your shoes so dirty?"

"Get out of my sight. I'm in a sentimental mood today."

"Why? Because you stepped on dirt?"

Oh, come on! I was in a bad mood, and you still ruined it!

"I feel disgusted because you talked about dirt!"

"Hey, dude. Your mood was already bad before I got here."

Y-You saw it? I shrugged my shoulders slightly. But, Lucas' appearance had lifted my slightly depressed mood. I raised my head, and the hazy light coming in through the gaps in the tent blurred my vision.

Haaaaa.

I leaned a little more comfortably against his warm back.

"I feel a little sorry for someone."

"Why?"

I remembered the man who interrupted me earlier, and he made a sad face.

 

'Young Master Alphaeus. I don't hate you. But,'

 

'I don't want to hear it.'

 

Maybe I like Izekiel a little bit. No, actually, I would be lying if I said that I don't know my own feelings. When I met him in the White Lily Fields 3 years ago, maybe I wouldn't have rejected him if Lucas hadn't sent me back to the Palace. At that time, I was very attracted to him.

"Because I lied before."

But, I didn't want to have anything to do with Izekiel. He was the male protagonist of this novel, the one Zenith liked. Many things bothered me about my relationship with Duke Alphaeus, and after considering many things, I made a rather selfish decision.

"What lie?"

"There was someone I should have had a relationship with, maybe even a better relationship, and I made it into something that wasn't like that."

Ah, this is a bad idea. If I go any further, I'll regret it later. Let's end this before it's too late. Before I got too deep into my own thoughts, I lied to Izekiel and said goodbye to my first love.

"Really? Then you're not lying now."

I knew that Izekiel's feelings for me were written, that's why 3 years ago, I wanted him to get rid of me, but I was the one who never did.

"Yeah, so I apologize once again."

But, it wasn't the same feeling I had 3 years ago. Just like the mud on my shoes, it was the remnants of past feelings that I hadn't been able to get rid of, and it was still there —glittering alone.

"What's there to be sorry about? I've never been caught feeling emotional, it's funny to see you get so excited about it."

I heard another comment from behind me. Suddenly, I felt weird and wanted to cry.

"What do you know and what are you talking about?"

"I know that he has a slim chance."

Lucas snorted and said,

"I don't want to put you in a cage or anything."

Aaahhh!

"Are you eavesdropping?!"

I flinched, pulling away from Lucas and turning my body towards him, and he stared at me —still sitting where he was. His red eyes crinkled in a smile that was somehow arrogant. What he said next was enough to make my jaw drop.

"Besides, this entire world is just a cage in my grasp. So why bother thinking about such a small thing?"

Yeah, you're right, man. I wish I could measure it.

"Besides, who the hell said that nonsense about wanting to lock you in a cage?"

"Huwaaa, you're embarrassing me. So stop."

"You're mine."

The calm voice cut through the humid air. At that moment, my heart felt a little strange. Without thinking, I immediately looked at the person in front of me. Suddenly, I realized that the atmosphere was a little strange.

"From the first time I saw you, from head to toe."

A hoarse whisper was heard amidst the drizzle of rain.

"You're mine."

My hair was tangled between his limp fingers. I watched him, panting as Lucas did the same thing as before, moving his hand to bury his lips in my hair.

"So, I won't give you to anyone."

My heart was beating fast as my gaze met and locked with his red eyes. As Lucas' face got closer, my hand moved unconsciously.

Slap!

"Ugh."

When I heard that voice, I was so shocked by what I just did. Oh my, my hand, why is it there? Did I just slap Lucas' forehead or something? Ugh, our faces were so close, so I subconsciously tried to push him away!

"Did you slap me?"

The Black Flame Dragon sleeping on my right hand woke up after a long time!

"Yes, I……!"

"Me?"

I couldn't say that this happened because of this strange atmosphere around us. Now, it seemed like the atmosphere was back to normal, so I wondered if I was just mistaken?

"That's because you're talking nonsense!"

"What did I do?"

"Why do you say that I am yours? I belong to myself!"

"Your statement is true, and mine is also true..."

"I can't hear you! You just appeared out of nowhere, what are you doing? Get out of here! I'll call Felix and Seth to come here!"

As expected, the seriousness between us couldn't last long. I grabbed a pillow and swung it wildly at Lucas. He grinned as he dodged my blow, until he disappeared in an instant.

"Huh, Princess?"

"Oops, there are goose feathers inside the pillow!"

Now, it was clear that Lucas had cast a soundproofing spell earlier. Felix and Seth looked surprised at the feathers flying around me and I was panting alone.

"Ooh, I guess I should exercise."

"What kind of exercise did you do on a day like this? Oh my God, look at your sweat. Let me get you some cold water!"

"Princess, let me fan you."

Because of my exhaustion, I hoped that this hunting competition would end soon.

***

About 1 hour later, the people who went hunting finally returned, they were soaked from the rain.

"It suddenly started raining heavily."

"Haha, at least the animal I hunted didn't get wet. Look, isn't its black fur so shiny?"

I looked at the people who came back, they looked like soaked mice. Then, I waved my hand.

Hwaaakk.

"Huh?"

"Suddenly, my body became fresh and my clothes became dry!"

"What happened?!"

"Ah, the Princess is here……!"

Wow, I should have done this earlier. Do I sometimes forget that I can use magic?

"Princess, thank you!"

"It's not a big deal."

I looked around at the people whose faces were red, and I smiled proudly. Ah, but there's someone there who still looks like a mouse!

"P-Princess..."

I looked around the room and saw that everyone was dry, but Kavell Ernst was still soaked. Of course, he was standing in the corner, so it wasn't like anyone noticed.

"Ugh!"

"W-Wait!"

Ah, but that reaction! It seemed like he thought I had intentionally let him out of my spell and made him unaffected by my magic. I stared at him in shock as he turned and ran after him.

“Sir Ernst.”

"I-I'm sorry, Princess. I didn't realize that you hated me so much……"

"I-It's not like that."

I immediately told Kavell who looked like he was going to dig into the ground to hide if I didn’t immediately explain to him why my magic didn’t work on him.

“Are you sure you don’t have any magic items?”

“What? Magic items?”

“Uhm, I mean, the things on your body right now, like small decorative items…”

“I don’t have anything like that because it’s not practical.”

Ugh, he doesn’t get it when I say it implicitly, so I’ll just say it directly.

“A sword ornament, for example!”

“Ah, I have one, it was given to me by my little sister back then.”

Kavell Ernst reached out and stroked the sword at his waist.

“Ouch. Why is it so dull?”

The ornament attached to the hilt of his sword was a half-broken rope. Kavell trembled as he showed it to me as if he was waiting for me to touch it. I touched the ornament and examined it briefly. It was an ornament I had seen before.

"This is a magic item that negates the effects of magic."

"Oh, so this is what makes it happen?"

"Something like that."

"Thank goodness!"

Kavell Ernst exclaimed in joy, happy to be freed from the misunderstanding that I had accidentally made him the only soaked mouse. I cast another drying spell on him before returning the sword ornament to Kavell Ernst.

"By the way, that means I'll be fine if I keep wearing this thing."

"Your little sister gave you something nice."

"My little sister really really likes me."

"I-Is that so?"

Uhmm, I didn't realize it, but it seems like he's a siscon (sister complex). Look at that radiant and proud expression on his face. Hmm? By the way, now that I've taken a look, it turns out that the sword ornament isn't just half broken, it seems like the stitching has cracked a bit due to the powerful magic…… Hm, c-could it be because Lucas hit it with a series of magic attacks in the Training Hall the other day?

"By any chance did you never remove this ornament from your sword when you came to Obelia?"

"Yes, my little sister was so worried about me, she asked me to do it. It was a hassle, but I couldn't help it…..."

Phew, that's right. So Lucas' magic worked here, huh? Somehow I felt guilty, so I tried to fix it using magic, but I still couldn't fix the loose stitching. Aish, I can't do it!

"I don't think I can fix it using magic, since it's not the string that's broken, but the stitching."

“Yes, I just pressed it like this with my hands and then fixed it.”

Ta-da! Kavell Ernst was a possessor of supernatural powers. He could join loose ends together with just his bare hands!

“By the way, I have caught a beautiful peacock, and its colorful feathers are similar to the bright eyes of the Princess. I would like to present it to you, will you accept it?”

“Ah, thank you.”

I said hesitantly. Kavell seemed happy that I accepted the peacock, and then he left the room. I followed him nervously. Now, all we had to do was sort out the animals that had been hunted and then the hunt would be over. Ah, great. I couldn’t wait to get back to my room and curl up in bed as soon as possible.

“Miss Magritta, please accept this white deer that I caught!”

Then, a familiar voice came from somewhere. I turned to see Kavell running towards Zenith, his eyes sparkling and he shouted excitedly.

"The white deer's sad eyes, wet with rain, and its pitiful aura, just like you, Miss Magritta! Ah, I wonder where I've seen such beauty before..."

Oh, so you didn't give me the only animal you caught? I thought you meant it like when you asked for a handkerchief. Thank goodness. By the way, I'm confused by this supporting character's behavior, in the novel, he immediately fell in love with Zenith and courted her passionately, but it turns out he didn't?

"If you don't mind, I'll..."

"Hehe, thank you. I'm very happy with the deer!"

Zenith said, she looked a little confused but she still smiled. It seemed like she thought that Kavell Ernst was a funny person, even though it was a little out of place. By the way, she said earlier that she wasn't feeling well, but I guess she's feeling better now. I started to walk away, thinking that I should get ready to finish this hunting event.

"Hm? I think I just stepped on something, what was it?"

"It looks like a brooch or a pendant, maybe someone dropped it? Ask the maids."

Behind me, I could hear the other nobles talking about something, but their voices were soft, so I couldn't hear what they were saying. I could finally go home! I walked excitedly towards the tent.

***

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