When Ronnie briefly explained the situation to a knight who had arrived at the scene, they were told to go to the castle like he had expected.
Before moving to the castle, Cordelia told one of the knights that Earl Zakharov might be looking for them, and asked the knight to look for Earl Zakharov.
When they were about to head to the castle, Shelley woke up, but she was really excited to hear that she could enter the castle before she even grasped her own situation.
Therefore, she was more excitable than she was at the circus while they were travelling and while they were waiting to be interviewed.
“Wow, I’m in a real castle! I’ve always wanted to come here! I wonder if I can meet the Prince by chance. I wonder if I’ll be able to see him if I go out into the corridor.”
Cordelia wanted to sigh deeply at Shelley’s excitement, but she held it in. I’m glad you’re not traumatised by the kidnapping, but I want you to think about why this happened. If this happens again, what will you do?
Ronnie was being interviewed first, so only Cordelia and Shelley were here.
“Shelley-san, please stop following people you don’t know from now on.”
“Argh, I know!”
No, that’s the typical response of someone who doesn’t understand. In fact, you’re not reflecting at all since you even secretly added, ‘I’m finally having fun’.
(I wonder if this child won’t listen to anyone unless it’s the Prince who she admires.)
But, if Shelley meets Sylvester-sama, then she’ll be more excited than she is now and won’t be able to talk.
And, one more thing. Shelley is really pushy, and it feels like she’s the in-game 『Cordelia』instead of the『Heroine』.
She won’t listen to anyone, she has absolute confidence in herself, and her attachment to the Prince―――.
Once she started thinking about it, everything seemed to overlap, and Cordelia shook her head a little. There are many problems with Shelley’s behaviour and speech, but if she is a noble’s daughter, then it’s possible she’ll be educated, and her behaviour and speech will improve. Although, it may be hard to change her fundamental thoughts.
“Oh? Shelley-san, did you drop this?”
Cordelia had found a small bag rolling at Shelley’s feet, so she stood up and picked it up. The sachet was about the size of the aroma bags that Cordelia had previously made for the children in Oulu Village, and the string which was used to hang it around Shelley’s neck had unfastened. The fabric was also worn out because it had been used for a long time.
Shelley looked surprised, then she snatched the bag away from Cordelia.
“Oh, thanks! I can’t lose this!”
“Huh? Um, I’m glad I saw it then.”
Cordelia widened her eyes because it was the first time Shelley had thanked her.
“Can I ask what it is?”
“You can. This is a memento that my mum gave me. She said that I’ll be happy if I have this,” she said while retying the unfastened part of the string, then she wore it on her neck and hid it under her clothes. It seems to be a charm that she always carries.
(Perhaps…)
Cordelia gulped and stared at the bag.
“What is inside of the charm?”
“I really don’t want to show it to you, but… it’s a small ring. You picked it up for me, so I’ll show it to you.”
Shelley was in a good mood, and what she took out of the bag wasn’t a small ring… it was an ear cuff. The surface was a little cloudy, but there was a small bird pattern engraved on it.
“This is…!”
“Huh? Do you know this bird?”
“Yes. Say, have you ever shown this to the priests?”
“Nope. The priests told me that charms shouldn’t be opened.”
I see, so that’s why they couldn’t identify her so far.
Cordelia breathed out slowly and then looked straight at Shelley.
“This is the Clydereine House’s crest.”
“Cly… dereine?? What’s that?”
“Earl Clydereine’s House. I don’t know why your mother had something like this, but maybe Earl Clydereine might know.”
Cordelia explained since it looked like Shelley didn’t get it, and Shelley jumped.
“What?! This is the crest of an Earl!? I only know Earl Zakharov’s name!”
“Earl Zakharov’s crest is also a bird, but, if I’m not mistaken, it’s a seabird. That’s a dove. There are olive branches on the ear cuff, so I’m probably right.”
Cordelia carefully chose her words in front of Shelley, who was confused. She couldn’t say that they were parent and child just because Shelley had a reasonably expensive ear cuff with an elaborate design, but they do have some kind of connection.
“I don’t know why your mother had that, but I might be able to find out. Do you want to know?”
“I am curious… But, does this really belong to that… what’s his face Earl?”
“No one would make a fake with a noble’s crest. Misrepresentation of social status is a crime.”
Shelley stared at the ear cuff when she heard what Cordelia had said. But her confusion gradually faded, and her eyes began to shine.
“Hey, if this belongs to that Earl, then I’ll be acquainted with him, and I can show the Earls my power, right? If that happens, then it’ll surely give me a chance to get closer to the Prince! Earl Zakharov won’t advertise my powers, but the other Earl might!”
Even though she had hinted that she could acquaint herself with Earl Clydereine, she still didn’t seem to realise that he could be her father.
(I heard from Isma-oniisama that Earl Clydereine and Otou-sama aren’t on good terms, but he did say that they can talk, so it shouldn’t be impossible to make contact with him.)
If I can tell him that there’s a young girl with an ear cuff that has the Clydereine crest on it, then I can leave the decision making to him. I doubt the Earl would forget who he gave the ear cuff to.
“Shelley-san, can you keep this a secret? We need to investigate this, but the investigation won’t progress if there’s confusion.”
“Really? Well then, investigate quickly.”
Shelley seemed a little unhappy, but she couldn’t let the chance slip away, so she didn’t say anything else to Cordelia except for her to rush. Furthermore, her unhappy expression had already changed to a happy one, and she was already on cloud nine.
(But the problem is how long can she keep silent? I have to hurry.)
At least, Cordelia hoped that she would keep quiet about it until tomorrow, any more than that worried Cordelia. In any case, it doesn’t change the fact that I have to hurry, the moment Cordelia thought that she was called to another room.
When Cordelia entered the room being used for interviews, there were two knights there, and one of them was her brother, Isma.
“I didn’t think we would talk here… but I heard about what happened from Ronnie. It was a disaster.”
Isma seemed a little troubled as he laughed. He was probably showing consideration towards her.
“But I have to make sure that the details match up. Can you talk about it?”
“Yes.”
First, she talked about how she visited the church and was invited by Earl Zakharov to go to the circus with Shelley. Then, when Shelley and Cordelia were talking in the plaza, a suspicious man came and tried to take Shelley away, so she followed them. Isma and the other knight wrote down what she had said.
“Did you notice anything else?”
“I thought it wasn’t something so simple since he had kidnapped her in front of her companions. He did lure her with goods at first, but after that, he acted a little too pushy. I don’t think he would have aimed for her if he just wanted to kidnap anyone.”
“Then, do you think she was targeted?”
“No, I think it was too unnatural. She had only just decided that she would go out. The only person who knew that she would be at the circus was the person who invited her, Earl Zakharov, but he also invited me, Ronnie, and Clarice Keighley, a knight.”
“He invited Keighley-dono?”
“He did. Me aside, I don’t think he would invite a knight and a magician from the Pameradia House if he was planning to kidnap her.”
“Thanks. I’ll use that as a reference,”
Isma said and sighed. Then he whispered, “It’s the same as what Ronnie had said.”
“And, this isn’t directly related to the disturbance, but why were you at the circus? Even if you were invited, you could have refused since it was a sudden invitation.”
“That girl’s name is Shelley, and she’s a very hyper girl. I worried that she would get lost if only she and the Earl went.”
“I see, you couldn’t ignore that fact. But she wasn’t kidnapped thanks to that. That child was lucky.”
I think I might have been able to lie to him about Ghost with that, but what shall I do now?
If possible, I want to talk to Onii-sama about Shelley, but I don’t want others to hear us. A child having the crest of the Clydereine House is a very delicate topic. That’s why I told her not to tell anyone.
“Oh, that’s right. I heard about the hoodlum’s hideout, but I forgot to ask them about where they’re from. A map of the plaza… isn’t very detailed. I’ll go get another one.”
“Then, I’ll go get it, so please wait with your little sister.”
“Sorry, thanks.”
Isma thanked the knight who was leaving the room and sighed as soon as the door was closed.
“Now, it’s only the two of us. I’ll listen to what you have to say, now.”
“I’m sorry.”
From what Isma had said, he had cleared out the room so that they would be alone. She felt terrible that she was taking up more time, but she was grateful that he realised she had something to say.
“No, it’s fine. So, what did you want to say?”
“I just found this out, but Shelley has an ear cuff with the Clydereine crest on it. Can you tell this to Earl Clydereine?”
“Something with a crest…?”
“Yes. It’s her mother’s memento, but she doesn’t know how she got it.”
“Alright. Earl Clydereine did get ear cuffs made, but that’s not strange… but, she was given something very personal.”
Isma also strongly felt that Shelley was related to Earl Clydereine in some way.
“But, if she is, then she’s in a pretty complicated position. So then, the girl they were trying to kidnap is the Dreamer Girl, and she’s also somehow connected to Earl Clydereine? I’ll be glad if the kidnappers confess everything quickly. By the way, what do you think of the Dreamer Girl, Cordelia?”
“What do you mean?”
“Your impression of her. What do you think of her as a person?”
“She seems to adore the Prince from the bottom of her heart. I don’t know if those feelings are love or admiration. She also has a lot of confidence in herself, and she doesn’t listen to others when they reprimand her.”
“So, she’s a child who does things that need reprimanding.”
Cordelia smiled wryly when Isma made a face saying ‘you’ve done a great job’.
She was sad that she couldn’t deny that, but there was no point in glossing things over to her brother.
“I’ll tell Earl Clydereine. I’ll report it to father too, but it’s probably better for me to mediate this matter. If he hears it from father, then the Earl would put up his guard too much.”
Isma’s wry smile hinted how bad the relationship was between Elvis and Earl Clydereine. Isma was better at things like that, since he was amiable.
“Thank you very much, Onii-sama.”
“I don’t mind. It may not be directly related to the kidnapping, but if she has nothing to do with Earl Clydereine then he would just ignore it, and if she is related to him, then he might owe me one.”
With a smile, Isma didn’t hide his true feelings, and Cordelia smiled a little.
“Now then, it’s about time my colleague comes back. Do you have anything else you want to secretly tell me?”
“No, I’ve told you all I can for now.”
“Alright. Then, you’ll have to deal with father when you get home.”
When Isma said that, a knock sounded at the door. Cordelia gulped because they had barely finished talking in time, but Isma continued to smile.
(Onii-sama is so amazing.)
It was her first time seeing him work, but she couldn’t help but think that he was living in the world of adults just like Elvis and Cyrus.
After the interview, Ronnie and Cordelia went home. Then, Emina gave her a letter addressed to her. She turned the letter around and saw a wax seal of a seabird at the back. It was from Earl Zakharov.
When Cordelia went back to her room, she changed clothes and opened the letter.
He wrote that he wanted to invite Cordelia and Shelley to his mansion as an apology for getting them involved in the kidnapping incident.
“A tea party to apologise, huh? I don’t think it’s Earl Zakharov’s fault though.”
However, that’s only if the Earl isn’t involved in this incident. I’ll have to reply since he’s sent a written invitation.
She thought that, and there was a knock at her door.
“Come in.”
“Pardon me. Ojou-sama, Master will be coming home early today.”
“Okay.”
Cordelia put the letter on the desk after she’d responded to Emina. I don’t have to write a reply straight away. I have to report to Otou-sama first.
Cordelia gave a long sigh because the things she had to report increased by one.
Usually, when Elvis said he was coming home early, he would get home a little later than dinner time. Thus, Cordelia thought he would be home around that time today too, but he came home much earlier and even called her to have dinner with him.
Elvis was still dressed in the clothes he wore when he came back from the castle.
“I heard you came to the castle today too.”
“Yes.”
“I’ve heard most of it from Isma, but I want you to give me an explanation too.”
It seems like he’s already heard the gist of things.
Cordelia said the same things that she had told Isma.
“Even if that girl is short-tempered, I didn’t think you would accompany Earl Zakharov.”
“I’m sorry. But I haven’t heard that Earl Zakharov was a particularly careful person, so I went with them.”
She informed Elvis of the reason why she had accompanied them straight away, but he gave a deep sigh in reply.
“I heard that girl has the Clydereine House’s crest.”
“Yes.”
“Normally, it’s unimaginable for someone to give ear cuffs to a servant. If they didn’t steal it, then they’re probably a relative or something. I’m leaving this matter to Isma, but you got to know a girl like her?”
Elvis’s expression gradually grew bitter.
Why is he making an expression like that? Cordelia questioned, and thought of something terrible.
(I want to believe that’s not the case… but he’s not thinking that Shelley would be my rival for the position of the Queen, right?)
Cyrus-oniisama declared that there aren’t any merits to me marrying into the royal family.
But Otou-sama hadn’t told me that directly. However, it shouldn’t be a problem since he hadn’t brought that topic up ever since I declared that I didn’t want to marry the Prince.
(No, no. That must never happen!)
Once she started thinking about this matter, she couldn’t stop, and desperately tried to calm down the fear that had arisen within her. She was on the verge of trembling.
Before long, the words she heard were utterly different from the ones she had expected.
“… They got you involved.”
Elvis grumbled slightly.
His voice sounded as if he was protesting against the damage she had suffered, and Cordelia went blank.
(Come to think of it, Otou-sama didn’t ask me about the time when I met the Prince either.)
If he wants me to marry His Highness, then it wouldn’t be strange for him to ask what we talked about.
Can I take that as him thinking my marriage into the royal family is unnecessary like Cyrus-oniisama does? She wanted to ask him straight away, but she hesitated because the current conversation would be skipped. We should clear the matter about Shelley first.
However, his words indicated that he treasured her a lot, so it made her happy.
(It’s not related to the Pameradia House’s reputation, but he still got angry.)
I already know he treasures me, but it makes me happy that he’s showing it again.
“It seems like they don’t know much about the kidnapping yet. But the ones you captured are probably not the main offenders; rather, they are people who can be discarded.”
“Otou-sama, I have something to talk to you about that. To tell you the truth, Earl Zakharov has sent me an invitation for a tea party as an apology for today. The girl I mentioned earlier, Shelley-san, is also invited to this tea party.”
“Tea party?”
Cordelia nodded while listening to Elvis’s sharp tone.
“I haven’t written him a reply yet. But, before that… I’ve looked into Earl Zakharov a little, and I thought a few things were strange. I’ve heard that Earl Zakharov’s income plummeted due to his ships being wrecked, but it seems like he’s more prosperous than before.”
“If you’re talking about his welfare work, then it’s simple. He’s just consuming his fortune and turning it into gold.”
Cordelia widened her eyes because Elvis had answered so easily.
“I also researched to see if he was doing anything illegally. But he seems to have levelled his savings to keep face. When he lost his ship, he could have bought another if it wasn’t the latest model. But, he hadn’t done that, and a lot of servants saw that he was spending his money lavishing, so they quit since they were worried about their futures. As a result, I heard that he hardly has any servants left.”
Cordelia widened her eyes at what Elvis had said.
“That’s…”
Is that a noble’s pride? There are times when appearances matter, but he might have too enthusiastic about spending money that even his servants were worried.
“Publically, Earl Zakharov isn’t a harmful person right now. He’s just a fool who can’t face reality, but he doesn’t seem like he would hatch a plan and deceive people. He’s not someone who can put together a plan. He doesn’t have much interest in politics, so I never get involved with him.”
Is that why he wasn’t included in the Houses I should be careful of? Cordelia thought, and Elvis turned his sharp gaze onto her.
“Remember the difference between pride and delusions.”
“Yes.”
However, Elvis quietened his voice a little.
“But there is something that’s bothering me. When I looked into him, his property should have already reached the limit, but you said that he hasn’t changed his behaviour. He probably doesn’t have any collateral left to borrow money. But he doesn’t seem like he’s panicking.”
He declared and looked back at Cordelia.
“If you’re going to the tea party, then pay attention to see if you feel uncomfortable in any way.”
Elvis was saying he was worried, but he didn’t mind if she went. He told her the Earl’s circumstances, and that she should be on the lookout.
(Isn’t this his first command to me?)
In contrast to Cordelia’s surprise, Elvis was indifferent.
“But don’t search too deeply. All the more if you think he has something to do with the kidnapping of that town girl.”
“I understand, Otou-sama.”
I don’t know if I will produce any results.
But, if Otou-sama expects that I can do this, then I have to respond to his expectations.
Hence, I need to reply to Earl Zakharov at once.
(But we have to eat before that.)
Cordelia thought as she headed to the dining room with Elvis.
Three days later, Cordelia headed to Earl Zakharov’s mansion with Ronnie at the allocated time. Usually, Emina would accompany her to tea parties, but Ronnie already knew Earl Zakharov, so it shouldn’t be a problem for him to accompany her.
Earl Zakharov’s mansion was a quiet place.
The garden, made up of pruned evergreen trees and stone statues, maintained a beautiful balance, and looked elegant. However, she felt like the plants were complaining that they were lonely.
“It’s a quiet mansion. It seems like people are hiding their presence.”
“You’re right.”
Cordelia and Ronnie got off the carriage in front of the entrance while whispering to each other. They were invited into the mansion by a servant, and Ronnie was guided to a separate room, as was usual with tea parties. Attendants waited in a separate room until the end of the tea party, but Ronnie would have to wait alone, since Shelley didn’t have any attendants.
Cordelia, on the other hand, was guided to a room on the second floor, which was strange.
Tea parties were often held in sunny rooms on the first floor or in the garden, but according to the servant, Shelley had asked for a room located in a high position, since it would have a better view.
Earl Zakharov was already waiting in the room.
“Hey, Cordelia-san. Thanks for coming.”
“Thank you for inviting me, Earl Zakharov.”
There was a lot of light in the room she was guided to. However, on the other hand, she felt the same loneliness from this room as she had in the garden. It may have been related to how dreary the room was.
Cordelia felt complicated feelings, since the arrangement of the room gave off a hollow feeling, instead of being simple. She knew that just having decorations didn’t make it a nice room, but if Earl Zakharov was a show-off, like Elvis had said he was, then he would have decorated the room a little when he invited guests to it. Did he not have enough money to do that?
“I sent someone to get Shelley-san, but it seems like they’ll be late.”
“Oh my, then I should have gone to pick her up.”
Shelley stayed in the castle until late, on the day of the kidnapping incident, but she had returned to the church afterwards.
However, Isma had told her that she already has a Clydereine House magician as her guard, and they have already begun to identify her using magic. Isma said that Earl Clydereine had done that because he was almost convinced that she was his blood relative.
“I can’t let guests do that. I’ll be happy if you could take a seat and wait.”
“Then, pardon me.”
Cordelia slowly sat down, and Earl Zakharov spoke again.
“I’m really sorry for the trouble I caused by suddenly inviting you two out. I’ve done something awful.”
“It’s fine, you don’t have to worry about it.”
“No, I do. If you hadn’t been there, then Shelley-san would have gone missing. Thanks, Cordelia-san.”
“No, I… It’s because Ronnie was there.”
“Ah, Ronnie-kun, yes? I thought he would be strong, since he’s your guard… but I really can’t thank him enough. The magicians at the Pameradia House are amazing.”
Earl Zakharov smiled and stated, but Cordelia felt uncomfortable.
He said he can’t thank Ronnie enough, but he didn’t invite Ronnie here. Ronnie said this way is better for him, but why didn’t the Earl invite Ronnie to the tea party when he interacts with commoners a lot? Although he’s Shelley’s patron, she’s still a commoner right now.
(I wonder if Earl Zakharov knows that Shelley may be connected to the Clydereine house.)
I told Shelley to keep quiet about that, but if he saw the Clydereine magician at the church, then it wouldn’t be strange for him to know.
“Shelley isn’t here yet, but I feel like putting something in my mouth, so why don’t I get tea prepared?”
“Thank you very much. But, before that… Even though it had been urgent, I’m sorry for suddenly disappearing like that.”
“That’s fine. I was surprised when I realised you both were gone, but I received your message from the knight.”
“I see.”
“I was looking at an acquaintance’s shop. I was browsing too many items in there.”
Cordelia felt strange again by Earl Zakharov’s words.
Earl Zakharov seems to prioritise Shelley’s wishes, but he forgot about her because he was so focused on things he liked?
“Were you looking at things to gift to Shelley-san?”
“That’s right. But it looks like I’ll have to give her a congratulations present.”
It seems like Earl Zakharov has been informed about her possible relation to Earl Clydereine.
“Have you already heard about it?”
“Yesterday, I waited for Shelley-san at the church until night time, but she was with a Clydereine House magician. I asked what was going on, and the magician told me that she might be related to Earl Clydereine. I was so surprised,” Earl Zakharov said, as he smiled a little.
“If she’s related to the Clydereine House, then she wouldn’t be related to me. That’s a shame, but we’ll have the opportunity to meet each other in the future. It’s an honour to be able to get along with her.”
“Really?”
“Besides, she brought us together. I got to know you because of her. I might ask if I can borrow Ronnie, who can suppress three men in the blink of an eye by himself.”
The Earl joked, and Cordelia smiled as she tilted her head.
My doubts are still there, but I’m sure of one thing.
“Earl, can I ask you something? Is Shelley-san here?”
“She’s not… Why do you think she is?”
“How did you find out that three men tried to kidnap her? The only people that know that is me, Ronnie and the knights. We have to report it immediately if there is an insolent person who leaked information outside, but when did you hear about it, since you were at the church until night time?”
Cordelia smiled and the Earl widened his eyes. Then, he smiled.
“You’re really smart. No, I was careless since I was happy.”
“I think you’ve talked quite a bit, even though you say I’m smart. Why did you try to kidnap Shelley? And, why are you happy?”
He could get his hands on Shelley, even if he hadn’t tried to kidnap her. If Cordelia hadn’t tried to influence the relationship between Shelley and Earl Clydereine, then it would have been better for Earl Zakharov to make a move after he got his hands on her.
But Earl Zakharov remained calm.
“Even I know that there are people after Shelley. There was someone who offered me a completion bonus because I had a relationship with her.”
“Then…”
“However, his offer wasn’t appealing to me. Sure, he had offered a lot of money, but I’m not after money, and I don’t think I can buy what I want with that amount.”
Earl Zakharov continued, and it didn’t seem like he was lying.
“What is it you want?”
“I want commendation.”
“Commendation?”
“Yes. Commendation that can be bought with money disappears in an instant. But I found out from a certain man… that I had an opportunity to talk with you, Cordelia-san. So, I accepted his proposal.”
“With me?”
Cordelia knitted her eyebrows because he had suddenly said her name, but Earl Zakharov looked happy as he continued eloquently.
“I’ve always known about you. You’re famous among my circle. When you were under 10, you educated the children in your fief, and you collected noble children and conducted charity work. So, you know how pleasant it is to be admired, right? No, there’s no point in living if I’m not admired. The more I give, the more thanks I get in return. The happiness I get from that can’t be substituted for anything else.”
“So, what does that have to do with what you want to talk to me about?”
“This.”
Earl Zakharov said as he put a small potted plant on the table.
“What is this?”
“It’s a herb that fascinates people. It gives people pleasure and fun hallucinations… No, it can even make you see dreams.”
“So, it’s a narcotic.”
“It’s just grass like this, so it needs to be processed.”
Cordelia also researched narcotics to find out about dangerous herbs, but she didn’t recognise the herb that he had presented. It looked like flax, but it had several different traits than flax, such as red leaves.
“This is a plant from the north, but it’s a good plant and grows anywhere. But, it’s hard for me to raise a lot of them by myself. That man told me that Cordelia-san is interested in all kinds of herbs, so you’ll definitely help me if I can get to know you.”
Cordelia glared at Earl Zakharov when she heard the word ‘north’.
“I wonder if the man who told you about me is from the dark guild in the north.”
“Oh, he is. He said that you’re a soft-hearted person, so if you hear that Shelley-san is in danger, then you would certainly appear, even if you’re unsure. If Shelley-san had been kidnapped, then I would have killed two birds with one stone, but I’m not disappointed since it wasn’t a sure thing. I just gave a gold coin to some hoodlums, and it would be disappointing to let go of a child who is so emotionally attached to me.”
“You didn’t rebuke the girl who became emotionally attached to you for her sake, did you?”
“She’s cute, but she’ll keep on talking if you don’t stop her. There are times when she’s annoying too. I thought I could use her peculiar powers, so I told people she resembled my late wife… and everyone immediately accepted it. It’s my natural virtue.”
Earl Zakharov kept the same smile on his face since the beginning and wasn’t timid at all.
(I see. Ghost didn’t lie to me, but he held his real motive.)
I didn’t trust him, but I never suspected that was his motive.
(He also meant this when he said he wanted to have fun.)
If so, then I’m angry, but I also understand him.
Shelley-san coming to the north might indeed be trouble for Ghost, but he was looking forward to seeing me protect her.
“When you lost your ships, did you not think about buying some more?”
“You don’t know how it feels to lose a large amount of money you’ve saved in an instant, do you? People looked at me with pity. They pitied me. I couldn’t stand it. That’s why I couldn’t stop acting as I had before, even if I gave up on ships. I thought it would be fine if I found another method of income… That was a miscalculation.”
“You chose the wrong choices because of a worthless reason. That’s not a miscalculation; you lost rationality.”
However, Cordelia’s words didn’t reach Earl Zakharov.
“This herb isn’t being circulated in this kingdom yet. If people aren’t on their guard, then I won’t have any rivals.”
“Don’t you think that’s against ethics?”
“Selling it to customers who want it and making them happy. Spend the money I earn on charity and gain more praise. I don’t think it’s something to worry about since no one’s losing anything.”
Earl Zakharov got more and more excited by his words.
“The man in the north said this; Cordelia-san probably needs money, so why don’t you tempt her? I heard that you were different from Earl Pameradia and your brothers and that you were a tomboy and weren’t restrained by existing things.”
“…”
“You are Earl Pameradia’s daughter. You’re probably also good at stimulating plant growth. You know how wonderful these gold producing plants are, don’t you? Of course, some people may dislike this once it’s made public, but it’s not a prohibited item, so it shouldn’t be criticized. Some people might also try to make money in the same way once they know about it, so we can’t let them know.”
Apparently, another person has been attracted by Ghost’s cajolery.
(No, that’s not right. Earl Zakharov jumped into this mud boat himself.)
Cordelia wiped away the stern expression on her face and smiled again.
Then, she slowly raised her palm at the plant, and the plant withered in an instant.
“What?!”
“I like doing things that make me happy. However, I can’t agree with your ideology at all. Earl, no, Zakharov; you’re disgusting.”
Zakharov didn’t seem to understand what was going on, but Cordelia continued.
“Buying commendation with money? That’s wrong. There are certainly things you can’t buy and do without money, but the thing you have acquired is scorn. You might think you wouldn’t be caught, but I have no reason to overlook this.”
The smile she had put on her face, once again turned sharp.
At the end of Cordelia’s glare, Zakharov slowly raised his face from the potted plant.
However, the smile that had been lost in his face was back in an instant.
“This is quite different from what that man said. I heard that you would think more positively about this. ――― But, in any case, I’ll have you help me with this.”
“Do you think I would help you after everything I’ve said?”
“If you have to, then it’ll be a different story. You’re smart, so you’re also a little proud.”
Zakharov said as he slowly stood up.
“I have powers that aren’t inferior to a magician’s. I might be inferior to your father and brothers, but I even know martial arts. If I carry you to a carriage and take you out of the royal capital, then you’ll have to help me.”
“Ronnie will think something’s off if I disappear from this mansion. And, Otou-sama knows that I’m here.”
“Just like with Shelley-san, it’ll be fine if I tell them that suspicious people attacked the mansion. In fact, I could have kidnapped you at that time if you had told Ronnie to chase them by himself, but you were more cautious then, unlike now. Well, I know you’re on your guard because you confronted me while leaving your tail.”
“So that’s how it was. I don’t agree with how you think, but I understand it.”
He was recklessly indirect, but things didn’t go as he had planned. However, he still thought that he was in an advantageous position, and was relaxed.
However, Cordelia wasn’t panicking either.
“Then, I’ll tell you. I’m Earl Pameradia’s daughter. You said that I was cautious before, but didn’t you think that I might have thought this was a trap?”
Cordelia spoke as she quickly scattered some seeds.
“I’ve also heard that this is your special attack!”
Zakharov swung his sword down sideways and mowed down the plants which Cordelia had rapidly grew, but the plants quickly grew back to the same height as it was, and attacked Zakharov like they had a mind of their own. However, Zakharov’s sword was embedded with magic, and he didn’t yield.
(I don’t plan on losing in a magic endurance test, but it’s not a contest right now.)
Cordelia smiled, and in the next moment, a thick ivy vine wrapped itself around Zakharov’s neck from behind.
“I’ve been told to learn self-defence.”
“Gah!”
“If your carotid artery is tightened, then you’ll lose your consciousness… but before that, your neck will feel tight, and you’ll find it painful to breathe. You weren’t paying attention to your back, so I took it to my advantage.”
Cordelia spoke as she used another vine to fling the sword out of Zakharov’s hand. Then, at the same time, she strengthened the binding on his hands and feet. Zakharov’s expression distorted even more, but Cordelia was surprised.
(It went better than I thought.)
I thought it would be enough if I just stalled him a little, but I’ve trained my magic more than I imagined. But he was probably careless due to how Shelley-san usually acts. If his standards for ‘children’ is Shelley-san, he wouldn’t feel nervous even if he thinks I’m somewhat smart. In that case, I’ll have to thank Shelley-san a little.
“Wh… at… the… hell…!”
Zakharov said that his magic power was equivalent to that of a magician’s, and broke through the bondage on the left half of his body with his own magic. However, Cordelia didn’t panic.
She had already bought enough time.
“Zakharov, you’ve missed one more thing.”
“What…”
“Ronnie. He’s more reliable than you think.”
The moment Cordelia said that, the door was destroyed violently.
“See, isn’t he really reliable?”
“Argh… Ojou-sama, I told you to give me a signal if something happened, but I didn’t tell you to suddenly start a fight. What magic did you use?”
Zakharov widened his eyes in surprise, and Ronnie sighed as he scratched his head.
“Anyway, I’ll hear it later. I understand that you couldn’t settle things quietly, since it has become like this.”
Thus, Zakharov, who claimed to have the same power as a magician, quickly lost consciousness, because he wasn’t able to resist a real magician, especially since he was already restrained.
Later, Lara, who was waiting nearby, sent a message to the knights, and Zakharov was handed over to them while he was still unconscious. The knights searched the mansion and interviewed the servants, since Zakharov was manufacturing narcotics, but the servants had thought it was a decorative plant.
The day after Zakharov was arrested, Cordelia was talking to Isma and another knight at the castle again. She had already briefly explained the situation the day before, but she was called again today because she had entered the Zakharov mansion.
They told her that they would visit the mansion if she couldn’t go out because of the shock she had received, but she wanted to visit the Big Bookcase, so she went to the castle, since she didn’t want to waste time.
“I’ve also examined the plant, but it’s just normal grass unless you dry the leaves and use it. He wanted to keep his money-making tree a secret.”
Isma said, and Cordelia tilted her head a little.
“He was so careful about that, but he looked down on me.”
“He might have been financially cornered. It seems like this was his last chance.”
Cordelia indeed agreed with that.
Then, they talked for a while, and the other knight stood up from his chair.
“Let’s stop here. I’ll go get some drinks.”
After seeing the knight off, Isma slowly got up. He had loosened up a bit.
“After he was arrested, he said in the interview ‘I was threatened by a noble in the north to kidnap the girl, so I approached her to protect her because I thought she would be in danger. That noble pushed the narcotic plants onto me as advanced payment, so I didn’t have them because I wanted them’.”
Cordelia was surprised when she had heard that because Zakharov wasn’t in any position to say that.
“Then, he didn’t need to kidnap me to raise those narcotic plants.”
“Yeah. He shut his mouth once we pointed that out. But he only kept silent until father got there.”
“Otou-sama went to see him?”
“I don’t know who called him, but when he felt father’s wrath, he quivered and confessed a lot of things. He said that he went to look for that noble in the north in search of narcotics and that noble asked him to kidnap the Dreamer Girl. But he also said he refused since it was impossible to kidnap the girl while avoiding the knights. There are still some inconsistencies, but he couldn’t stand father’s pressure and fainted, so we’ll be interviewing him again tomorrow. He’s of no importance compared to the things he did.”
Isma’s expression as he said that stated, ‘he deserved it’.
“Catching that beast is a big deal. I think you’ll catch more attention in the castle than ever before, but don’t worry about it too much.”
“Thank you very much.”
Cordelia smiled wryly at what Isma had said.
Cordelia’s name spread to more people in the castle than ever before because of the incident.
A small group already knew about her because she had won the competition show, and the noble ladies knew about her through Vernoux’s mother and her aunt, Countess Nirupama Weltoria, but that was only a small group of nobles. But rumours about Cordelia had quickly spread because she had just thwarted an Earl’s conspiracy. The rumours were a bit exaggerated, and some people even said that she was following her brother and father, and belonged to the military faction, but they have never said anything to her directly, so she hasn’t been able to correct them.
However, no one would complain if she behaved appropriately, even if she was in the military faction.
She understood that fame could become one’s power, and the importance of boasting about one’s name and pride. Of course, her ultimate goal wasn’t to chase after only that and clung to one’s reputation like Zakharov did.
『There are a lot of people who take action for justice and falsehood, and show off their vanity.』
『If you don’t have something you can truly be proud of, the pride you hold is only for show.』
She still remembered the words Elvis told her when she was young.
At the same time, she hadn’t forgotten 『If you don’t have power, then people will make light of you』.
(Even I want to bring as many smiles as I can to people’s faces.)
Of course, I want to work more and more on the things that interest me, and I want to make aromas my weapon. But those things would be impossible if I can’t imagine making someone happy. I want to raise my reputation because of my actions, but I will think about what methods to use to build my fame.
(But… Zakharov didn’t say that he had a connection to Ghost.)
Did Ghost threaten Zakharov that badly that Zakharov didn’t even mention Ghost, even though he fainted? Zakharov may mention him in the future, but at least he’s gotten away with it for now.
(I can say that I was able to stop Shelley-san’s kidnapping this time because of Ghost’s ruse…)
Ghost really isn’t on the side of justice. I can’t let him get away with taking delight in people’s reactions towards crimes.
I’ll definitely catch him the next time he appears, Cordelia swore firmly.
As Cordelia thought those things, Isma gave a small sigh, then looked at her.
“They formally proved that she is Earl Clydereine’s daughter this morning.”
“I’m surprised that they got the results so fast. So, she is his daughter.”
Cordelia was going to stop by the church to check up on Shelley on her way home, but she was confused since she didn’t know what expression she should make now that Shelley’s identity had been confirmed.
“I heard that he will be conducting the formalities to welcome her new home today. Still, she really is an energetic young lady, like you said she was. I think it’ll be hard for her to adjust to our world.”
“Yes, I think so too.”
Cordelia probably didn’t have to worry anymore, since Shelley was now under the protection of Earl Clydereine. On the one hand, she was glad, but on the other, she felt complicated.
(I had no choice, but I ended up being the one who introduced the heroine to the world of nobles.)
If she continues to act the way she does, then I can predict that she’ll be disliked by those around her. At least, she’ll definitely clash with Vernoux-sama and Clive-sama.
(Well, this is as far as I go. After this, it’s best that we live our lives without getting involved with each other.)
I know her name, but we didn’t introduce ourselves to each other, and she didn’t ask for my name. I’m probably someone not worth worrying about to her.
I hope it’ll stay this way forever.
“Oh yeah, Cordelia. Can you buy some sweets on the way home for father?”
“For Otou-sama?”
Cordelia tilted her head at Isma’s sudden request, and Isma smiled and put his index finger on his mouth.
“This is a secret. Father knew that something could have gone wrong if things weren’t handled properly, but he was worried since you had to battle.”
“It’s not that big of a deal.”
“You may think so, but father was quiet and depressed. So, if you cheer him up… no, isn’t it fine for you to depend on him?”
Isma was half-joking, but Cordelia frowned.
“Do I look that unreliable to Otou-sama?”
“He wouldn’t have let you handle this if you weren’t. However, trust and worry are two different things.”
He couldn’t express it clearly with words, but Cordelia could understand the word ‘worry’ a little. However, I wonder if Otou-sama will really be distracted just by me depending on him, but since Isma-oniisama said this, should I try to ask for something?
(But what on earth should I ask for? I hope I ask for something that would make Otou-sama happy too…)
Cordelia looked at the knight who had just returned with the maid who was pushing the cart as she thought, I’ll lightly mention it at dinner tonight. Then, the conversation changed to trifling topics.
The maid who was serving tea smiled at Cordelia.
Cordelia responded while taking care not to smile awkwardly.
---
After drinking tea, Isma walked Cordelia to the Big Bookcase, where Ronnie was waiting for her. She had already gotten a bit used to walking around the castle, but it was difficult for her to relax because she could encounter someone unexpected.
Cordelia walked to the Big Bookcase while asking Isma what sweets she should get, when she heard an unexpected voice.
“What a coincidence to meet you at a place like this, Isma-dono.”
Turning back at the voice, she saw a man, along a girl who she had gotten accustomed to seeing in the past few days, Shelley. Isma bowed lightly at Earl Clydereine.
“Hello, Earl Clydereine. You’ve finished with the formalities?”
“Yes, it’s troublesome to be indebted to the Pameradia House, but I’m grateful to you. Hey, Shelley, say hello.”
But, Shelley stared silently at Isma, even though Earl Clydereine had prompted her to greet them.
She should be used to seeing knights at the church, so why is she acting like that? Cordelia thought, and Shelley smiled widely.
“You’re a knight in this castle, right? Do you know the Prince? I want to meet him as quickly as I can!”
“Shelley.”
Shelley was reprimanded by the Earl, but she continued to behave as she usually did, and tilted her head as if she didn’t know why he had done so.
Cordelia’s face twitched involuntarily.
She hasn’t changed at all since she’s just been taken in by him, and hasn’t received any education. However, formalities aside, greetings are themselves a form of courtesy for humans, and don’t just apply to nobles. She guessed that Earl Clydereine must have been feeling awkward and felt sorry for him.
However, Isma didn’t even seem surprised at Shelley’s sudden question and looked at Earl Clydereine in a friendly way.
“It must be different from the life she’s used to.”
Isma said, and Earl Clydereine coughed.
“W-well it’s important that she gets used to it. But if this child is allowed to have an audience with His Highness in the future, then he might fall in love with her at first sight. She’s adorable and has a mysterious power. If that happens, then I feel sorry for Earl Pameradia.”
“You don’t have to. I’m sure my father would be happy as a retainer no matter who His Highness chooses. However, he would surely get lonely if this child becomes a bride, so he might want His Highness to choose someone else as his queen. Cordelia, your greetings.”
Prompted by Isma, Cordelia curtsied lightly at Earl Clydereine while smiling.
“I am the fourth child of Elvis Pameradia, Cordelia Enna Pameradia. I am pleased to make your acquaintance.”
Earl Clydereine’s face distorted slightly because he had compared Cordelia’s greeting to Shelley’s. But Shelley spoke before the Earl could reply.
“You―――.”
“It’s been a while, Shelley-san.”
“Why are you―――? I definitely won’t lose!!”
“… Huh?”
Cordelia tilted her head at the sudden declaration.
For a second, she thought it was because of her greeting, but judging from Shelley’s threatening attitude, that didn’t seem to be the case. Isma and Earl Clydereine looked at Shelley in surprise, but she didn’t notice their gazes and revealed her hostility towards Cordelia.
“I know because I saw it in my dreams! You’re willing to do anything just so His Highness would look at you, right? Don’t you feel ashamed chasing after His Highness for so long?”
Cordelia widened her eyes at Shelley’s sudden remarks.
It was difficult for Cordelia to understand what Shelley had said since reality was different, but Shelley hadn’t recognised her as important before.
“Shelley-san, what do you mean?”
“Don’t act like we’re friends!”
“I’m sorry, but I’ve rarely met with His Highness. I’ve met the young ladies who come to the Queen’s tea parties more times than I’ve met him.”
Cordelia had only started visiting the castle, and it was easy to tell that Shelley’s statement was wrong. At least, Earl Clydereine should know that what Shelley had stated was different from fact. Still, she would be troubled if someone misunderstood because they had heard that and spread rumours about her, so she firmly denied Shelley’s accusations.
However, Shelley didn’t stop.
“You’re lying. You’ll definitely get in my way! Even now, you’re desperately trying to get into His Highness’s good graces, aren’t you?! If you have free time, then you go to see His Highness, even though you’re bothering him!”
“Even if you say I go to see him… As I said earlier, I’ve only met His Highness twice. The first time was by chance, and he summoned me the second time, so we haven’t met in private.”
“But, you appeared in my dreams…!”
Cordelia clicked her tongue inside of her mind at the word ‘dreams’.
(It’s useless. She doesn’t listen to anything that relates to her dreams.)
But weren’t her dreams infallible? It would be acceptable if she was talking about the future, but I don’t go to see Sylvester-sama right now. Her dreams have already made a mistake.
“Even though you saw it in a dream, it’s not very pleasant to be falsely accused,” Isma said, and Earl Clydereine looked slightly bitter.
“She’s been busy the past few days, so she might have been imagining things because she’s tired. Shelley, we’re going home.”
“But Otou-sama!”
“That’s enough, we’re leaving. Excuse us.”
After the two of them were out of sight, Isma sighed and shrugged.
“Are you alright?”
“Yes, I was just a little surprised.”
Yes, I was just surprised at first.
But she couldn’t laugh and lie when she remembered Shelley’s words, since the Cordelia who Shelley was talking about was like the in-game 『Cordelia』.
(What does this mean?)
It’s impossible to ask Shelley about it.
If so, the only hint that comes to mind is the story of the first Saint that Clarice-sama was talking about in the Big Bookcase; the diary of the evangelist. Their diary might not mention anything, but that’s the only clue I can come up with now.
“Can you keep this a secret from father? It’ll probably become a hassle if he finds out.”
“Okay. Earl Clydereine also looked like he knew that what she said wasn’t true, so I don’t have to worry about it spreading straight away.”
“Yeah. Earl Clydereine knows that you don’t visit His Highness… or rather, he should know that you’re not a queen candidate anymore, so he should know better than anyone that you don’t go to see His Highness. That girl says strange things.”
Even though Isma had said that, Cordelia felt that he was a bit irritated. His voice was calm, but it was also sharp. However, she couldn’t think of anything to say to him, and only wanted to get to the Big Bookcase as quickly as possible.
---
Cordelia met with Ronnie at once after she separated from Isma at the Big Bookcase, then she headed to the corner where the books on the Saint were gathered alone. The story about the Saint was popular as plays and wasn’t just a part of history, so there were more scripts than actual facts.
Among those scripts, the book that Cordelia was looking for had a plain binding and was stuffed in the bookshelf.
“Found it.”
Cordelia pulled out the book that only had『Evangelist』written on the cover, and turned the pages on the spot.
Now that she had the book in her hand, she felt like it was a waste to move to a chair.
『This is a record written for me. So, I’ll write in it diligently.』
The diary, which began with an informal sentence, seemed to be a copy of the Evangelist’s diary.
The sinister end of the Saint that Ghost talked about, and Shelley, the girl rumoured to be the second coming of the Saint, and her misguided dream. Even if Shelley didn’t have as much power as the Saint, Cordelia might be able to find a hint to that power in this diary.
The diary, which was written in the ancient language, was a little hard to read, but she could still read it.
The diary began with when the Evangelist’s met the First King. If what they wrote was true, then the Evangelist teased the First King a lot. It seemed relatively disrespectful.
Aside from that, a woman who seemed like the 『Saint』suddenly appeared in the Evangelist’s diary. There were no specific descriptions, but one day, the word 『Mysterious Woman』suddenly appeared more frequently in the journal. After that, the word 『Mysterious Woman』eventually changed to『Dreamer』and『Saint』.
They wrote their impressions on the 『Saint』such as she dreamt that a calamity fell on the First King in her dreams, so she took countermeasures and become one of the founders of this kingdom; this was also written about in history books. As for the personality of the Saint, they wrote that she was a calm woman who put others before herself, and didn’t seem human. This could be interpreted as them respecting the Saint and worrying for her as a comrade. Cordelia could tell that they were good comrades. They also wrote a lot of personal things such as what they ate for the day, and what they did in town.
However, the second half of the diary was dark.
Cordelia thought that the Evangelist wasn’t going to write about the Saint for a while, but the next time they did, the content was completely different from the previous entries.
『It might be better if the Saint doesn’t mention her dreams anymore.』
After that short sentence, entries about the Saint stopped again.
Then, the Saint was mentioned again a month later.
That entry was written in a language older than the ancient language. Cordelia needed a dictionary to decipher the entry, so she carried a dictionary and the diary with her to a nearby table. The translations weren’t accurate, but she roughly understood what the Evangelist had written.
(I wonder if they wrote it in an older language than what was used back then because they didn’t want others to read it.)
And, as if to support her guess, the words the Evangelist wrote out weren’t positive.
『Recently, the Saint has only been making predictions about herself. I’m not going to say my opinions, no matter how she uses her powers. Rather, I think it’s strange that she hasn’t used her powers for herself until now. However, it sounds as if she’s purposely trying to trick people, since her predictions sound too erratic and inconsistent.』
Is this the beginning of『The ominous end of the Saint』that Ghost was talking about?
Cordelia felt nervous as she continued reading while being careful not to mistranslate anything.
After that, the Evangelist wrote in the same characters again after several days.
『At first she had said that her power was for making ‘people’ happy. But did she include herself in ‘people’? 』
『Of course, they may not be impossible futures. However, those broken logic predictions also seem like she’s escaping, since she can’t accept the reality. ‘I saw a future I didn’t want to see, so I want to pick at the seeds of anxiety,’ she says as she closes her eyes to reality.』
『The people that she has saved still only think of her as the Saint. However, the sounds of friction have started.』
『She made a lot of people happy. Therefore, she should let go of her power and be happy.』
『Her treatment has been decided. They will tell people that she is resting because of a disease.』
Cordelia didn’t know what the Saint’s dream was nor what she had wanted because the Evangelist hadn’t written this down. However, 『what the Saint wanted』wasn’t important to Cordelia.
The important thing was: that the Saint hadn’t seen a dream about what she wanted, that there were people who suffered inconveniences because of her predictions, and the situation became so complicated that it was hard for her comrades to protect her. But, the most important thing was ―――.
(The predictions of the Saint can be wrong, and others noticed this.)
There was someone who realised that her predictions were wrong, and put an end to it. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have had to retire.
That was an important fact for Cordelia. For example, it wouldn’t be a problem if a lot of people believed Cordelia, even if Shelley told an unlikely story like before. I want to believe that there are accomplished people who can also interact with the Saint and that it’s possible for me to get through to her.
(I thought it would work out if I avoided the Prince and Shelley, but, at this rate, Shelley will probably try to involve herself with me.)
I don’t want to have a bad reputation with those who believe in her power.
I can easily prove something like I don’t meet up with the Prince, but I can’t predict what she would say.
“If she says something that is hard to prove, then trust is the only thing I can rely on. I need to gain people’s trust if I want them to help me.”
I know that she can’t show definite evidence, but things can get worse.
It’s highly likely that the dreams of the Saint and the dreams of Shelley are of the same nature, even if there’s a difference in how strong their powers are.
(When Shelley was at the church, she respected and adored His Highness, but she wanted to be of use to him. But, by becoming the daughter of an Earl, it indicated that she had the possibility of becoming queen, even as a joke. If it’s her, who believes her dreams are absolutely righteous…)
Earl Clydereine had already said that she could be queen.
Even if I regret this, I had no other choice at that time. Shelley also could have been welcomed into the Clydereine House eventually, even if I hadn’t interfered. She thought that as she read the diary.
『The Saint has left. With this, the nation will remember her as a beautiful memory. The kingdom couldn’t make her actions public because of her distinguished service. I also won’t write any private opinions on official documents.』
Her specific actions weren’t written down, but it was a lonely end for someone of distinguished service in the founding of the kingdom. Even though Cordelia had only seen glimpses of the unavoidable conflict, she could feel the Evangelist’s regret from their writing.
(Come to think of it, the heroine in the game didn’t use her power for herself, even at the end of the game.)
The heroine in the game had more power than the current Shelley and always used her dreams for someone else, just like the former Saint had. As a result, the heroine may have been influenced by her power, but, from the beginning, the heroine had never had dreams that decided her future.
This is just a hypothesis, but perhaps the power of dreams is inaccurate when one ‘dreams of oneself’. If so, then it would explain why Shelley’s dreams were off.
“I’m sure I wouldn’t be able to behave in such a devoted way,” Cordelia said. Then, she stood up so that she could return the dictionary and diary.
A lot of time had probably passed since I was reading something I wasn’t used to. My eyes are a little tired. It happened when she returned the book and thought, should I stand on my tiptoes?
“What can’t you behave like?”
“Eh?! Ah, oh my, Clive-sama. Are you looking for His Highness and Vernoux-sama today as well?”
Cordelia hadn’t heard any footsteps at all because she wasn’t concentrating. She panicked when Clive appeared and quickly forced a smile on her face.
Clive spoke to her, and he had a complicated expression on his face like always.
“His Highness has a sword lesson right now with your father.”
“Huh? Father is teaching His Highness?”
She had let out a funny voice because it was the first time she had heard of that, and Clive looked at her suspiciously. She hadn’t heard about that from anyone.
(I don’t know how that happened, but it’s not like Otou-sama volunteered to be His Highness’s instructor so that he can get close to him, right?)
Otou-sama is just one of the many tutors that His Highness has, so I don’t think I need to be told, but I’m a bit worried about why Vernoux-sama didn’t mention it. Should I ask him about it next time?
“Well, whatever. But you’re in a very different corner today. What book is that?”
“It’s a book related to the legend of the Saint.”
“Oh, a lot of women like that kind of setting. Do you also long to be like her?”
“I don’t need that power. It doesn’t suit my personality.”
I don’t have the confidence to say that I will use that power for others, like the Saint had. I don’t want that power nor its predictions, but I might give in to temptation if I have an alluring power. If so, then it’s better not to have a power like that.
“Surprisingly, you’ve already gotten acquainted with Earl Clydereine’s daughter.”
“You know about that? However, she probably doesn’t even remember my name, even though we know each other.”
“It seems like she’s quite obsessed with His Highness.”
“You know a lot.”
Cordelia was a little surprised because she didn’t think that Clive would know that much.
“I saw the encounter between you and Earl Clydereine and his daughter. I wasn’t in a place where I could easily hear your voices, but I could hear half of your conversation. She was a vivacious girl.”
Which means Shelley’s voice was loud enough that other people who were near us heard her. I thought there was no one around us, but voices echo here more than I thought it would.
Cordelia shrugged. If Clive-sama knows about this, then that saves me time.
“According to her, I intrude upon His Highness whenever I’m free.”
“You don’t.”
His scowl said, ‘Are you telling me something I know on purpose?’
Is there something else he wants to know? Cordelia thought and immediately came up with something.
“Are you worried that Earl Clydereine’s daughter would hinder His Highness’s future?”
“…”
He confirmed her words with silence.
“Well, I understand that she looks harmful. Anyway, what did you think when she said that?”
“What did I think?”
It was an unexpected question. Cordelia thought that he would ask her about Shelley’s personality instead of what she thought.
“Mm. She probably misunderstood, since I’ve only met with His Highness twice.”
“I know that. That’s not what I’m asking you about. Weren’t you irritated?”
“I can’t say I wasn’t, but I’ll be troubled if it happens again.”
I can’t express the various feelings I have towards Shelley, and it’s hard to express the emotions that are clogging up my chest.
“… It’s fine if you don’t feel down.”
“Oh my, were you worried about me?”
Cordelia asked, since she was surprised by his words, but Clive stopped moving and coughed.
“It’s not like I’m worried about you or anything. However, if you’re subjected to slander without reason, then I just wondered if it was alright to overlook it as a person…”
The words that he had muttered gradually became difficult to hear, but she knew that he was complaining. Even so, the only thing she could say was…
“Thank you very much.”
“There’s no reason to thank me.”
“Then, I’ll just say thanks once. It might be a joke, but Earl Clydereine said that Otou-sama might be annoyed if his daughter were to become queen. He might wish for them to be together.”
Clive’s frowned deepened upon Cordelia’s words.
“… Are you going to support that?”
“I don’t know if he's serious or not. And, I understand that Earl Clydereine thinks that Shelley-san’s behaviour is not appropriate enough yet, so he probably won’t ask His Highness to meet with his daughter straight away.”
I don’t know how reliable it is, but the Shelley in the game studied to be a lady to a certain degree. And, judging from how Earl Clydereine was acting today, he wouldn’t let her out in public without educating her first.
“Well, she would at least need to learn the basics about how to behave and how to speak discreetly.”
Clive said harsh words like always, then he gave a long and irritated sigh.
“If I was with you today, then I could have said something, but I don’t have the chance to cut into quarrels between ladies. To begin with, if Vernoux-dono or I mediate, it might become inconvenient for you. You should dispel accusations like that yourself. Also, some think that Earl Zakharov’s matter was part of your scheme.”
“Thank you for your concern.”
For some reason or another, I can understand that having Clive-sama and Vernoux-sama’s support would cause inconveniences for me. If Sylvester-sama’s aides support me, then others would misunderstand it as the 『Prince’s intention』even if it is by their own will, and I fear that His Highness would find it annoying.
And I also exposed Zakharov.
Most supported me when Zakharov was arrested, but some claimed that I had deceived him, so he is the victim. If I’m included in those who want to get close to the Prince, in this situation, then it would look like I’m a nasty lady who tries to ensnare men with my social status, and the Prince, Vernoux-sama and Clive-sama are just giving in.
I know only a few think this, but still, those people probably don’t need ‘proof’. Even I know that.
“Clive-sama, can I ask you a question?”
“What is it?”
“I appreciate your advice, but you don’t like me very much, do you? So, why are you worried about me?”
Judging by how he acted towards me when we first met, I would rather believe that he thinks I want to ensnare the Prince.
However, Clive distorted his face at Cordelia’s question.
“I’m not showing you kindness. However, I don’t know how I feel about that lady’s false accusation.”
“Really?”
“And, I will need information if she really wants to get close to His Highness. So… it’s a process of elimination, since it seems like I can communicate with you better.”
“Oh my… Thank you, for that?”
His tone was as thorny as ever, but he trusted Cordelia a little.
“Then, I have a proposal if we’re going to be sharing information.”
“Proposal? What kind of compensation do you want?”
Cordelia smiled and asked Clive who scowled for a second.
“Won’t you call me, Cordelia? It’s friendlier that way if we’re going to be sharing information.”
“… I can’t believe I’m hearing the same thing His Highness said from your mouth.”
“Did you say something?”
“No. I didn’t say anything, Cordelia-jou.”
She felt like he had complained, but widened her eyes since he had surprisingly accepted this request readily. She said it herself, but she thought he would be a little reluctant to call her by her name, since he had shown her hostility earlier.
“What’s wrong?”
“It’s nothing.”
But that’s a delightful miscalculation, Cordelia laughed a little.