Hey though I’m a horrible person who disappears for months at a time just like a shitty deadbeat stepdad, at least I have enough decency to not hang people off cliffs too much. Here’s the continuation from chapter 15. Enjoy…

 

---

 

That conversation didn’t enter her head at all. Her thoughts came to a complete halt, stuck in an absolute daze.

—Lilia! Get a hold of yourself!

With Sakura’s shout, her mind slowly began to move again. At the same time, the Prince’s words replayed themselves in her head. What did, this guy, just say?
The moment she remembered, Lilia’s heart cooled rapidly.

—Sakura. I’m fine.

—But…

Fine. Fufu, rather my head has already cooled down. I wonder, how in the world I had come to love such a man.

Indeed, the engagement itself was something decided upon by their parents. But even so, Lilia loved the Prince. Though it was something like love at first sight, she did indeed love him. To that end, to not have him taken away by Tina, she had acted out her harassment.
Despite all that, she seemed to actually have been such an inconsequential existence to this man. Certainly, Tina also said that she couldn’t really recognise Lilia when she first saw her, but this man, even if it was as kids, should have seen Lilia without makeup on countless times before. And yet even so, he didn’t recognise her.
Ah~ah, Lilia sighed in her heart. That to this man, she was such a worthless existence, was made very clear to her. With just that, it was more than enough.
And so, Lilia smiled.

“Eek…”

A short shriek leaked out from the surroundings. It seemed that before they knew it inquisitive gazes were being directed towards them. And witnessing Lilia’s smile, a good number of people had brought their hands to cover their mouths. Even Tina and Alisa, when noticing the smile, had their cheeks cramp up slightly.
Lilia slowly rose from her seat and opened her mouth towards the Prince.

“It’s been a while, Your Highness.”

“Nn? That voice… No way, is it Lilianne!?”

At the Prince’s shocked voice, Lilia deepened her smile. As if thinking, So he really hadn’t noticed before huh.

“You, what are you doing here? Are you trying to do something to Tina again?”

“There is no such thing. Just having a little chat with Tina is all. Peacefully, you know?”

“As if I’d believe that.”

The Prince didn’t even try to hide the disgust in his voice. Really, how did she ever fall in love with man like this.

“My, it’s not as if I had the intention to have you believe me. I was simply stating the facts. Or perhaps, you want to make me out to be the bad guy even without me having done anything? You do don’t you. Yes, I am very well aware.”

Tina and Alisa paled hearing how she spoke. The Prince, on the contrary, had his face redden.

“You damn… There’s a limit to showing disrespect!”

“Oh my. This is indeed the school grounds. There is no such thing as lèse-majesté here. Or perhaps it’s that? You’ll forcibly drag me outside and charge me for lèse-majesté? Well, how frightening.”

The Prince’s face distorted with violent rage. Enjoying such a sight while laughing, before long she puffed out a scoff and smiled.

“Rest assured, Your Highness. I am doing no such things as to harass Miss Tina.”

“There’s no way I can believe such a…”

“After all…”

I no longer have any interest in you.

Perhaps not understanding the words given to him, the Prince hardened with his mouth agape like an idiot. Lilia laughed with a small giggle. Everyone in the surrounding area that had heard was made to take one step back.

“Well then, Miss Tina, I will be heading to the classroom.”

Tina, who had been left out of the conversation until now, trembled in surprise but immediately shook her head as a smile floated to her face.

“Yes. Thank you very much, Mistress Lilia.”

“Alisa. Please make sure to tidy up my room. You’re free to do whatever after that.”

“Certainly.”

Getting up, Alisa bowed respectfully. After nodding in satisfaction, thinking well then, Lilia turned to face the Prince.

“Good day, Your Highness. Please do not speak to me again.”

Saying so with a full-faced smile and leaving behind the completely frozen prince, Lilia departed the area.

Exiting the dorm, she entered the school building right beside it. Then, finding an empty classroom, Lilia went in and locked the door. Just like that, on the spot, she sat down as if collapsing.

“……Nn”

Tears overflowed from her eyes. Even trying to bear it, the tears continued to endlessly overflow, drenching Lilia’s face and clothes. Also, without being able to completely hold in her voice, the sound her sobbing continued to leak out.

—Lilia…

The voice resounding in her head, perhaps in concern for Lilia, had a soft and gentle tone. But she was unable to give a response.

Her first love being the Prince, beyond just the engagement, she had thought that the Prince had at least held some fondness towards her. But that was just Lilia’s desire, just an illusion. The Prince hadn’t held even the slightest interest in her after all.

—Lilia. You’re a good girl, so don’t cry. Okay?

Even being told that, she couldn’t stop despite her own will. If it could be stopped, she wouldn’t be crying in the first place.
Just like that, she continued to cry for a while and then also noticed.

—…Hic.

Sakura’s sobbing.

—Hey why are… you crying…

—After all… Thinking about Lilia’s feelings even I’d end up getting sad…

That’s just her doing her own thing, thought Lilia. In the end, what Sakura had was all just her own imaginings. It didn’t seem like Sakura was really understanding her feelings.

Besides, Sakura continued.

—Even though I want to give you a hug… I can’t do anything at all.

“…Nn”

Lilia involuntarily opened her eyes wide. She hadn’t thought that Sakura would be thinking about such a thing. When she wondered about the reason, she immediately felt disdain towards herself. Sakura was always thinking about Lilia. That was why, this time as well, she was probably feeling hurt as if it were about herself.

—Sorry, Lilia… Sorry, that I can’t do anything for you…

—Don’t worry about it alright… No need to, worry about it…

Sakura and Lilia’s sobbing overlapped. Sakura being inside Lilia, Lilia being in an empty classroom, the two continued to cry softly.

 

---

 

(Author’s Note)
The story, of a broken heart.

Sakura
Lilia

---

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

It’s really been a while huh. I guess no more making promises as to release frequencies… Oh well, that’s life I suppose. If anyone actually feels strongly enough about the speed of translation for this series feel free to send me an invite for collab I guess. Or just do it on your own, not like I can really stop you. Anyways, to the people who still haven’t forgotten about this story, here’s chapter 15. Enjoy!

P.S. Just wanna give a shout out to the wonderful Kudarajin, since discovering fluffy (and insanely fast) translations of Hokuou brought me back to reading (and finding time to translate) novels again.

 

---

 

“Morning, Tina.”

“Eh, ah… Ahh! Good morning!”

Tina got up energetically and lowered her head. Lilia gave a small sigh and brought her gaze to Tina with a glare. Just that was enough to shatter Tina’s expression.

“Umm, I mean… Morning, Lilia.”

“Good.”

With Lilia’s nod of approval, Tina let out a sigh of relief.

“Well then, what are you doing in a place like this?”

“Ah, I was waiting for you, Lilia.”

The bad premonition was spot on. With her cheeks stiffening, Lilia somehow managed to maintain her smile.

“Ohh. How come?”

“I just wanted to talk a little… And well, I wondered if becoming friends was really just a dream or not… Hey, Lilia. We’re really friends now, right?”

Tina asked with upturned eyes. This made Lilia’s eyes waver for just a moment before she returned her gaze to Tina. To be honest, she had intended to avoid her, along with the matter of the prince. She had spoken for the sake of not having to meet if it could be helped.

“What are you talking about? Mistress Lilia would never go back on her word.”

Lilia froze at Alisa’s words.

“Th-that’s right isn’t it! It is as Miss Alisa says. I don’t know what got into me!”

“Of course. This is Mistress Lilia we’re talking about here. There is no mistake about that.”

What’s with all this confidence here, thought Lilia.

—Deep… That really hit deeply…

Ah, ahaha… Don’t mind it, Lilia…

It seemed like all her options for avoiding Tina had disappeared. Heaving a heavy sigh, Lilia sat down across from Tina. Noticing this, Alisa also took a seat beside, and Tina happily started pouring the black tea into their cups.

“Well then, what shall we talk about?”

“Eh? Ah… I hadn’t thought about that…”

At that, Tina fell into silence, and Lilia and Alisa were also rendered speechless. To invite someone without having prepared any topic to talk about, what was this girl thinking? As Lilia was narrowing her eyes at the situation, Sakura’s voice forced itself between her thoughts.

—Lilia. There’s no preparation for just talking with a friend you know.

—Is that so?

—Yeah. Not for me anyways.

—Ahh, that’s why you’re like that huh.

—Hey wait a minute, whatever could you mean by that!

Ignoring the noisy complaints from Sakura, Lilia looked at Tina. Their eyes meeting, Tina clapped her hands with an “Oh right”.

“Makeup.”

“What?”

“Today, you don’t have any makeup on huh. I almost didn’t recognise you.”

Lilia’s movements froze, and Alisa’s cheeks cramped up as Sakura laughed in amusement.

—She went headfirst into treading on a landmine huh! Lilia, Tina doesn’t know anything, so no getting mad okay?

—Please rest assured. Since my anger is all directed at you.

—Nothing about that brings me rest or assurance though!?

After a short exchange with Sakura, she managed to calm her brewing agitation. Once again fixing the smile that was about to fall off her face, she replied.

“I was told that it didn’t really suit me. That it was fine to just go like this. Does it look strange after all?”

“That’s not true at all! Your current look is much better. As I thought, it seems that Lilia is quite a beauty after all.”

“Eh? Then that means up until now… Eh?”

Lilia’s eyes widened, and as if realising she had said something inappropriate, Tina hurriedly averted her eyes, casting her gaze at Alisa. Alisa herself was busily drinking her tea as if to stay completely uninvolved with this. A voice going “what’s with this” was echoing through Lilia’s head.
Lilia properly thought over Tina’s words, and coming to an understanding, she smiled feebly.

—Sakura. It seems my sense of aesthetics are quite off, so from now on I’ll be counting on you.

—Escaping from reality’s no good you know? Let’s work through this together.

Sakura’s words pierced deep into her chest. Though a part of her was glad that Sakura had let her know, at the same time, thinking back, if this one hadn’t said anything, she wouldn’t have had to taste such grief. However, looking in the long term, it was still good to have realised after all, so she decided to not say anything.

“Tina. Alisa. If you have some time, could you perhaps think of some more suitable makeup for me?”

When Lilia said so, Alisa made a wry smile, and Tina stiffened in surprise for a moment. Then, she immediately smiled and nodded.

“Okay! Leave it to me!”

After that, as if the tension was released, their conversation continued with idle chatter. The talk about Tina’s family was mostly highlighted with talk about the pet they were keeping at home. However, during their conversation, it was clear that one certain topic was being avoided.

“Tina. So this is where you were.”

Suddenly, the voice of the Mr. Avoided Conversation Topic himself came from behind Lilia. Lilia’s expression froze with her movements while Alisa took a glance at the owner of the voice, then looked worriedly at Lilia, and Tina’s expression, perhaps from restlessness, had distorted ever so slightly.

“Your Highness… You seem to be quite early today.”

Tina said, putting on a veil of calmness. However, she did not even bother trying to conceal the trembling in her voice. Perhaps not noticing, or maybe even just pretending to not notice, the source of the first voice, the prince of this country, simply continued the conversation.

“Yeah. I heard that Lilianne had returned. So I was worried about you and left a little earlier. Aren’t you quite early yourself today. You’re usually a bit later than this.”

“Yes. That’s… I thought, I’d have a little chat…”

“Hmm.”

The Prince took a few steps and moved beside Tina. Then he saw Lilia’s face. Since it wouldn’t do turn away from The Prince, Lilia also put on a forced smile and faced him.
She was seen. Since they were going to the same school, it was only a matter of time, but she didn’t think they’d meet this quickly. Her heart was racing, and nervousness gripped her chest painfully.
And so, the Prince opened his mouth.

“A fresh face huh. New friend of Tina’s?”

Tina and Alisa had their breath catch in their throat. This Prince’s words were completely beyond their expectations. Lilia completely blanked out, with a completely dumbfounded expression on her face.

“Yo-Your Highness. Do you really not know?”

“Nn? Have we also met before? Now that you mention it, I do somewhat recall…”

 

---

 

(Author’s Note)
It seems The Prince finally makes his appearance.

Sakura
Lilia

---

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Hey there, here’s the next chapter, and it didn’t take 3 months this time! Much thanks to Toki for TLCing and editing this chapter!
Enjoy!

---

The next day. Lilia opened her eyes after being awoken by Alisa. To Alisa who greeted her with a `good morning` while lowering her head, Lilia also plastered a smile on her face.

“Yeah. Morning, Alisa. What a nice day.”

“Yes. The weather is absolutely wonderful today. Will you be having breakfast in here?”

At Alisa’s prompt, Lilia thought for a bit. Perhaps her brain wasn’t spinning properly due to not having fully woken up yet, but for now, she felt that she wanted to avoid the dining hall.

“Very well. Can I leave it to you?”

“Understood.”

With a respectful bow, she departed from the bedroom, and seeing off Alisa’s back with her eyes, Lilia took a small sigh.

—Morning, Lilia. It’s the first day of school, huh! Looking forward to it aren’t ya!

—Morning. I’d appreciate it if you didn’t remind me, actually.

Honestly, even now, just thinking about school made her melancholic. However, this was the one thing she couldn’t run away from. All the more since she already spent the last day avoiding it. Letting out another small sigh, Lilia slipped out of bed.
She opened the closet in the corner of the room. Five sets of the school regulation uniform were prepared there, all perfectly in Lilia’s size. From those, Lilia grabbed a set and nimbly changed into it. Then, giving the appearance of being in thought, she promptly stood in front of a mirror.

—Really… Is it fine just like this? What about make-up?

—If it’s you, then there’s no need. You’re already super cute just like that, you know? If anything, the heavy cosmetics you’ve used up until now just made things feel worse.

—Is… Is that so…

Lilia staggered all the way to the bed, before sitting down, perplexed. To Sakura, who had asked what was wrong,

—It’s nothing… Just that I’m a little wounded from that.

Perhaps not understanding, Sakura gave off a puzzled impression, and without saying anything, Lilia let out a heavy sigh.
Sakura’s advice that her make-up was no good actually came right as she arrived. When heading to the school, just in case, she had put on her usual make-up before getting on the carriage. Thus, the words Sakura had told her right when she was preparing to retire for the night stung her heart even now.

—Lilia. That make-up is unpleasant. It’s gross. It’d be better if you stopped doing it from tomorrow onwards.

Nobody at all had let her know before. That was why she had thought that it was fine like that. At some point, she had started to imitate her mother and put on make-up by herself, but had the people around her been thinking the same thing this whole time?
That said though, Sakura was still Sakura. It would have been great if she had let her know back at the estate. But for some reason or other, rather than doing that, why was she telling her right before she headed to bed the night before. It was like she was procrastinating until the last minute out of spite.
There was a knock on the door. Following that, Alisa revealed her face.

“Mistress Lilia, I’ve come with your breakfast. Have you finished your preparations?”

“Yes… I’m going now.”

When Alisa saw Lilia, who had exited from the room, her eyes went wide. When she tilted her head to the side at Arisa, who was staring fixedly at Lilia, Alisa flusteredly lowered her head.

“Please excuse me. Because that was somewhat unexpected…”

“What was?”

“I see that today you will be going without make-up.”

Lilia’s face froze over. She asked Alisa, who was tilting her head to the side.

“Alisa. I’d like you to answer truthfully here, but.”

“Yes?”

“The make-up I’ve always done until now… how was it?”

This time it was Alisa who froze over. She seemed to be trying to say something, but kept shutting her mouth every time she opened it to speak. With just that, Lilia could already guess at Alisa’s feelings. Whether to answer truthfully and abide by Lilia’s command or to try and save face for her master, she was certainly lost for a decision. However, the fact that she was having trouble responding already made the answer here quite clear.

“It is fine. Thank you.”

“Ah… Um, my deepest apologies.”

“I said it’s fine. Alisa, I wish to change. If there is anything, please properly let me know.”

Alisa replied with a ‘certainly’ and bowed. Nodding in satisfaction, Lilia went to the seat where breakfast was prepared.
This was something that she only heard afterward, but Lilia’s back looked terribly small.

Having finished with breakfast, Lilia left her room to head towards the school building and descended down the stairs. Perhaps not aware of Lilia’s return, every single student passing by showed great surprise at seeing her. Lilia showed everyone who met her eyes a smile.
Before, she would only scowl at anyone she saw. She was actually intending the same as usual today as well, but she was stopped by Sakura.

—Lilia. Get Along.

Since it couldn’t be helped, she followed Sakura’s instructions and plastered the forced smile that she was confident had improved drastically over this week. According to Sakura, it was a smile that still had a ways to go, but everyone on the receiving end had their faces redden, looking away.

—We should hurry to class. We might end up running into that girl.

—I dunno, I think it’s pointless though. From what I know of that girl and her personality… Well whatever. We’ll see when we go.

Lilia frowned dubiously at Sakura’s words. Then, she quickly came to understand the meaning of what was said.

“Mistress Lilia. It’s Mistress Tina.”

As soon as she descended to the first floor, Alisa, who was walking in front, informed her of this arrival. She raised her face with a ‘huh?’ Perhaps due to the early hour, the entrance was still mostly devoid of people. And so, she quickly noticed.
At one of the tables arranged at the entrance was Tina. On the table, three cups were prepared. Perhaps she was talking to someone, or rather… Overcome with the feeling of a dreadful premonition, she was seriously wondering if she should go back or not. However, she definitely couldn’t ignore her here, either. After all, Alisa was continuously staring as if expecting something.

—Your friend’s here.

—Ugh…!

It was as if Sakura’s words were completely voicing Alisa’s thoughts on her behalf. With no other choice, Lilia approached Tina and placed a hand on her shoulder.

---

Author’s Notes:

The servants’ make-up -> Beautiful person
No make-up -> Cute person
Her own make-up -> Who the hell are you!
After getting used to seeing “Her own make-up” the surrounding people have come to react to no make-up with ‘Who the hell are you’.

(TL note)
The author usually has some sort of note at the end of every chapter, but they’re usually just corrections or announcements. In fact this chapter had a correction note as well but I will only translate the interesting parts of these notes.

(TLCer note from the great Tokimaru)
Arisa is a cute name, would waifu, fuck da haters

---

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Hey, it’s really been a while. Off of my hiatus, I’ll hopefully stop being such a dirty riajuu and lazy bum. Cheers, whoever is still here after all this time, thanks for your patience, and enjoy the chapter.

 

---

 

Lilia’s grades in magic could be described as above average, or rather less than great. They weren’t bad per se, but it was unfortunate that her target of comparison were her relatives. Lilia’s mother, Ascha, gave birth to countless new magics. As a matter of course, it seemed her grades at the academy were consistently at the top. With such a mother, Lilia was constantly being compared to her by others.

If it were Madam Ascha, she would quickly understand such a thing though.

If it were Madam Ascha, she could write a magic formation of this degree even without looking though.

If it were Madam Ascha. If it were Madam Ascha. If it were Mother.

Compared to her, Miss Lilianne is… Compared to her, I am…

“Mistress Lilia.”

At Alisa’s call, Lilia came back to her senses with a gasp. Alisa seemed worried as she peered over into her face.

“Are you alright? You are not feeling ill anywhere are…”

Lilia shook her head and gave a bitter smile.

“I’m alright. Alisa, will you teach me magic?”

Alisa blinked several times before happily nodding.

Sakura listened to Alisa’s lecture through Lilia. Lilia’s existing foundation in magic often came in handy. While listening, Sakura recalled a portion of the things she had heard before coming here. Things regarding magic.

The magic in this world was not omnipotent like those found in novels or games. What was known as magic here, was interacting with the spirits that made up a part of the world, contracting them, and making use of their powers through magic formations. For the spirits, attached to each and every magic were their specific conditions for lending out their power. Breaking even one of these requirements would render everything null, even if you had prepared the magic formation.

The idea of “Magical Power” was non-existent in this world, where ability was measured only by one’s talent for interacting with the spirits and the amount of knowledge one had in writing magic formations. This was the “magic” of the world.

Conversing with spirits and magic formation creation being the requirements, the skill of actually “using” magic was not needed. It was actually quite a simple thing in a certain sense.

“How nice…”

Sakura listened through Lilia to Alisa’s explanations. She listened, it seemed, with great interest and apparent envy.

“I wish I could try it out as well…”

What a wonderful thing it was, that having a magic formation prepared meant anyone could use it. In that case, without a doubt, even she herself would be able.
Alisa opened up some sort of book and proceeded to explain the magic formations contained within one by one. While Lilia seemed to simply be listening to the explanation, Sakura was staring intently at the formations as if to consume them, driving their entirety into her head.

“It would be great if I could use them one day.”

Those enthusiastic words, if one were able to see her face, were muttered through a penetratingly cold smile.

With the setting sun, the streets began to quiet down into slumber, and with this, Lilia finally closed the book before her. Alisa was sitting across from her and, despite being before her own master, had fallen prostrate, limply splayed out on the table. Lilia herself was without anger, simply giving a wry smile thinking it was unavoidable.

“Alisa. It’s about time, let’s get some dinner.”

“Yes… I will… go bring something from the dining hall…”

Getting up, she headed for the door with uneasy footsteps. Lilia watched her back with concern, silently sending her off until she finally made her exit. Glancing at the small clock placed on top of the table, she tilted her head, as if slightly taken aback by how early it still was.

“How pitiful, to be exhausted from just this much.”

—Ahaha. What a luxurious confusion of common sense. For a normal person, studying without rest for six hours straight would leave them exhausted for sure.

—Wait just a minute. It’s almost as if you’re saying that I’m not normal. Besides, in the first place, you were the cause of all this.

—Whatever could you be talking about?

At Sakura’s delighted voice, Lilia pressed her forehead as she sighed.
Lilia’s life back at the mansion would start with waking up early every day and, other than meals and baths, consisted solely of studying. At least twelve hours were dedicated to studying every day. At the start, Lilia was also completely exhausted by the end of the day, but she started to get used to it after three days, so now she had no trouble at all with this lifestyle.

—Well hey, you don’t exactly hate studying. That’s why you grew accustomed so quickly and could continue.

—I haven’t exactly expressed my dislikes in general though.

—…Now that you mention it, that is true.

Sakura whispered to herself wondering if this too was different from her previous knowledge, but for now, Lilia chose to pay it no heed.

A short while later, Alisa, accompanied by another person dressed in maid attire, brought in the meal. The maid was employed by the academy, so without any single master, she took care of all the residents living here. Naturally, she wasn’t alone in her work, and they weren’t employed by the residents, so students like Lilia couldn’t actually give them orders. At the very most, if they required the maids’ help, it would simply be more of a request.

“Mistress Lilia, thank you for waiting.”

Alisa set up the meal upon the table before Lilia. Displayed on the table was a meal resembling the menu of an Aldis family breakfast.

“What is this…”

“My deepest apologies, Mistress Aldis. Since it has become this time already, what could be prepared could only amount to this much.”

The woman lowered her head deeply. She remained in that position awaiting Lilia’s response, as if awaiting Lilia’s angry shout to erupt at any moment. And thus, with wrinkles gathering between her brows and about to shout as if it were the natural thing to do,

—Lilia.

With Sakura’s voice, she calmed down.

—There, deep breaths.

With Sakura’s urging, she slowly took in a breath, and let it out. Once again bringing her gaze to the woman, she met the eyes of the confused maid.

“Mistress Aldis?”

Perhaps unable to comprehend the silent Lilia, the woman stared at her with doubt in her eyes. Lilia steadily returned her gaze and spoke.

“Don’t mind it. It is unreasonable of me to request dinner at a time like this.”

The woman’s eyes went wide, and Alisa was smiling widely. Lowering her head again, the woman departed from the room.

—Is this okay for you?

—That was perfect! As expected of Lilia, seems like I’ll fall for you!

—Eh, no way.

—Hey hey, don’t reject my joke so seriously, that hurts…

At Sakura’s weeping reply, the corners of Lilia’s mouth raised just a tad bit.

“Well then let us dig in. You should take a seat over there, Alisa.”

“There as in… Facing you, is it? Is it really alright?”

“I am saying that is it alright.”

“Yes. Excuse me.”

Alisa seemed happy from top to bottom. While thinking it somewhat strange, she simply reached out her hands to begin her late dinner.

---

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Chapter 12. 13 coming soon™ (relatively).

 

---

 

When Lilia’s face showed displeasure at hearing her words, Tina flusteredly corrected herself.

“Uhmm… Sorry for keeping you, Lilia.”

“Very good. I do not mind. Since with this we managed to become friends after all.”

Saying so with a smile, Tina also gave an embarrassed laugh. Having exchanged their greetings, Lilia hurried towards her room. Alisa, who was silent throughout, naturally also followed suit.

“That was splendid, Mistress Lilia.”

‘Thank you’ was Lilia’s reply as she continued to advance. Almost as if she was escaping from that location.

—Sakura. Everything was fine back there right? She won’t think it strange right?

—With all that’s happened up until now, it’s quite strange no matter how you think about it. There should be some suspicion of being fake yeah!

—Stop messing around.

—How cold~. Well, yup. You did well. In fact it was completely contrary to expectations, in a good way. I hadn’t expected you to suddenly become friends.

Lilia’s feet came to a halt. Behind her Alisa also stopped, tilting her head as she waited for Lilia’s next move.

—Ahh, everything’s fine okay. As I said earlier, you did great. You really worked hard!

—Then… Very well…

Lilia herself thought that she was being quite hasty back there. If anything it should have been better if she didn’t declare a friendship right then and there. Especially due to having been treated so badly, Tina certainly should have been harbouring resentment at this point. Thinking about it, Lilia didn’t even know what kind of face she should be making the next time they meet.

—I think that girl was simply happy about it though.

However, in the end she just couldn’t fully believe in Sakura’s words after all.

All of the rooms on the third floor were of the same construction, but they were quite large all the same. Lilia’s room was no exception; while not as large as her room at the Estate, it was still reminiscent of a comfortable life. In the large room all the furniture needed for daily living were prepared, with nary a speck of dust on any of them. It was such a thorough cleaning, one would not think that the place had been left by its owner for over two weeks.
On one side of the room two doors stood out from the wall, leading to the separate bedroom and bathroom.
Lilia proceeded to the middle of the room, sat down on the prepared chair, and sighed deeply.

“Mistress Lilia. I shall go confirm the luggage now.”

“Right. Please do.”

Alisa gave a bow and headed for the bedroom. Lilia’s belongings were delivered and carried in the day before. Therefore Lilia herself had arrived empty-handed.

—Well then, Lilia. What will you do from tomorrow on?

At Sakura’s prompt, Lilia gave it a little thought and answered.

—That’s not something to think too deeply about right. I will go to school.

—Uh huh. Hey escaping from reality is no good. I’m talking about regarding the prince and Tina.

Lilia’s words were cut off by an “Uu”, and she diverted her eyes to the window. Opposite to the door they entered from was a window that provided a good view of the outside scenery. After having looked out for a while,

—Ooi, Liliaaa, come on baack.

Sakura called. With a cramped face, Lilia responded.

—I’m, thinking…

—Really… Then, what will you do when you meet the prince?

—I will avoid him as much as I can… I have already resolved to give up on His Majesty, though when I actually see him again, I have no idea how it will turn out.

—Well that’s a pretty wise judgement. Then, what about Tina? What will you do about your ‘friend’? This is certainly unavoidable.

This was something Lilia understood even without being told by Sakura. She definitely couldn’t ignore the matter concerning Tina. Saying that they should become friends, avoiding her immediately after and going back on her words was something she could not do.
It would be fine if it was just Tina. Meeting her, she could talk to her like she just did earlier. The problem was that in doing so, the prince would almost certainly appear as well.

—By the way, I won’t make a peep regarding this stuff you know. You should try doing what you want to do.

—Are you… Trying to test me?

—Well then, I wonder.

Sakura snickered happily. Lilia heaved a heavy sigh and then shook her head as if changing gears.

—Sakura. Let us study.

—Ohh, it sure is rare hearing that coming from Lilia!

While her words were mocking, it seemed Sakura was actually surprised. Other than on that first day, Lilia herself had never suggested studying. It was always Sakura urging her to do so. The simple reason being that Sakura’s lessons were so hard that she ended up feeling it was somewhat tough to go through.
Today however, she felt that it was better to do so. It could be said that this was more of her escaping from reality, but at the very least she wanted to concentrate on something else.

—But, how about we have a different person instruct you for today.

So came this response from Sakura. Lilia’s eyes widened at the unexpected proposal. For Sakura, whose voice no one else could hear, how on earth could she possibly request for anyone else.

—Since Alisa is quite knowledgeable in magic, today let’s learn some things regarding that. Alright, let’s go ask her!

Now that she mentioned it, Lilia also recalled – during her time back at the mansion there wasn’t a sliver of magic in her studies. Even as she learned everything else from Sakura, only the topics of magic and etiquette were not touched upon. On that point, Alisa was knowledgeable on these things Sakura did not know, almost as if she was there to perfectly compensate for what Sakura lacked.
But even so, having to learn from a maid was something she wanted to avoid no matter what. Lilia made a difficult expression as groaned when,

“Mistress Lilia, is something the matter?”

Before she knew it, Alisa was standing before her. In her usual maid outfit, she looked at Lilia with worry filled eyes. Presenting a lightly bitter smile, she shook her head to assure Alisa that it was nothing.

“Alisa. If I am not mistaken, you are knowledgeable in magic yes?”

“Eh? Yes, indeed… Compared to the Madam it would seem like mere child’s play, but I should know enough to the degree of being able to graduate from the academy.”

—What is with this girl, is she actually something amazing?

—Yup. In the first place for the sake of the magically inept Lilia they wanted a girl well versed in magic, which led to her being hired here.

—First I’ve heard about this.

—You should have heard about it. Though you probably just had no intention of paying attention around then.

That being the case, this was probably from before her shut-in period. If that was the case, she certainly paid no heed to anything she held no interest in then.

—About me being poor at magic, there was no such thing though?

—Like you can say that. Even though, always being compared to your mother, you’d be in self loathing at how you couldn’t be as great as her.

—……

---

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Chapter 11. Enjoy!

 

---

 

Along with Alisa, the figure of one more person entered her view. It was a girl with long, pale golden hair and light blue eyes. One of the people Lilia still did not wish to meet, the one who snatched the prince away from Lilia, what appeared was the figure of Tina Breyer.
Alisa’s interrogation continued.

“And just what business does this baron’s daughter have with her Mistress Lilianne? I believe you should be aware of the Aldis duke family?”

“Of course. Well, I am…”

Her words halted there. Meeting Lilia’s eyes, her mouth opened and closed numerous times. While seeming like she had more to say, Tina appeared to be at a loss for finding the proper words.

—Sakura. This, what should I do about this?

—Nn… Let’s all get along together!

—Hey that’s way too general.

Completely disappointed and shaking her head inside, Lilia stared at the girl. Tina trembled in surprise under the gaze. Her eyes faltered slightly as if wanting to look away, but she stopped herself and firmly met Lilia eye to eye.
And then, vigorously lowered her head.

“I am very sorry!”

Suddenly receiving an apology, the eyes of the unsuspecting Lilia darted about in confusion. Alisa was also struck speechless with her mouth hanging half open.

“Because of me, Miss Lilianne’s engagement with the prince…! Even though, even though it was my fault…!”

—Sakura, what do I do here!?

—Do your best!~ would still be too harsh for you huh? Lilia, that girl has apologised, so do forgive her. And, you should apologise too. With that there should be no lingering conflicts. The bestest resolution!

She didn’t really understand that last bit, but with panic quickly rising in Lilia her mind mostly stopped working and simply followed Sakura’s words.

“Tina.”

“Yes…”

“I will forgive you.”

This time, Tina vigorously raised her head. Her expression painted in solid surprise. Upon seeing that expression, Lilia’s heart conversely began to calm down.

“Speaking on the contrary though… Would you also please forgive all of my actions up to now?”

Being asked this, Tina’s face contorted as if about to cry.

“That is, no good…”

“Is that so… That is unfortunate.”

Saying so Lilia once again began to fall into a panic. ‘What bestest result, wasn’t it useless!?’ was what she inwardly shouted at Sakura, but she could only sense the girl laughing frivolously in return. As she was about to tell her to think about this seriously,

“Such a thing… only favours myself too much.”

Lilia’s mind halted for just a moment, then immediately began pondering the meaning behind those words. Questioning what that was about, Lilia tilted her head, so Tina continued.

“I was the one at fault in angering Miss Lilianne. That is why, there should be nothing for Miss Lilianne to apologise for!”

—No, no matter how you think about it Lilia was the bad one. And even looking at the root cause the blame lies with a certain idiot prince who went and got captivated by someone else while already engaged.

—Sakura, I won’t allow you to badmouth His Highness.

—Muu… Okay I get it… But Tina really didn’t do anything wrong here alright? She was just living her ordinary life when the prince started talking her up, drawing your attention, and was bullied for it.

—Looking at things objectively I really was quite an unpleasant woman huh…

Seeing Lilia smiling in self derision, Tina seemed to interpret that as something and her cheeks stiffened as she once again lowered her head. While thinking it to be troublesome, Lilia still opened her mouth.

“Tina. You are blameless. The fault lies entirely with me. Therefore, please do not blame yourself.”

“Why such a thing…!”

“Then let us do this.”

At Lilia’s words, Tina raised her face. Lilia slowly approached her. Lilia seemed to find it somewhat adorable, seeing Tina with such an awfully frightened expression.

“Let us let everything up ’til now be water under the bridge.”

“Eh…? However…!”

“Instead, would you please become my friend?”

Tina’s eyes opened wide, and Alisa noticeably gasped. Sakura as well, with an ‘ooh’ was for some reason surprised. Even though she was the one who said to do things like this.

“But… Umm… Is it alright…?”

Tina looked up at Lilia with upturned eyes. Lilia tried to smile with all her might as she nodded.

“Yes. Please treat me well, Tina.”

“!! Yes…! Thank you very much! Please treat me well!”

Tina gave a vigourous bow. As Lilia was heaving a long sigh of relief in her mind,

—Dayum this girl is seriously too cute! I wish I had haunted her instead!

—……

—Lilia? It was a joke? So hey, please don’t start sulking on me?

—Oh just be silent, I wasn’t sulking.

Pushing away her inner displeasure, Lilia formally held out her hand towards Tina. Tina was looking at the outstretched hand blankly, but soon realising Lilia’s intention, firmly grasped it with both hands.
Seeing the delighted Tina smiling broadly, for some reason Lilia also started to feel happy. Perhaps this was the girl’s charm at work here. At the very least, this was something that Lilia herself was lacking in.

“Well then, Tina. Since we have become friends now, shall we speak to each other in a more comfortable manner?”

“Eh? You mean…”

“It’s fine to use your casual tone okay? I will do the same.”

Tina’s thoughts seem to freeze for a moment as she stiffened, but soon spoke in a small voice,

“O-Okay… I got it. Best regards, Miss Lilianne.”

“There’s no need to address me in such a way. The people around me just call me Lilia.”

“Eh, umm… Miss Lilia…”

“Without the title.”

“Li-Lilia…”

“Yes. Very good.”

—Lilia. You’re having fun here aren’t ya.

—Isn’t it fun to play with her, this girl.

—Hey hey now.

Though saying so Sakura also had a hint of enjoyment in her voice. Since there were no instructions from Sakura, this should be fine for now. Lilia thought so, and satisfied with herself, she once again turned her attention back to Tina.

“I’ve just returned, so there are still various things I must prepare. I will have to excuse myself here, Tina.”

“Y-Yes! I’m very sorry for keeping you, during such a busy time!”

---

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

I am back! This wait took forever, but here’s the next chapter as promised. Expect more frequent releases again. Enjoy!

Credits: doom_chicken and Estelion for edits~

 

---

 

“Isn’t it fine. If there has been no precedent, then we will create one.”

“That may be so, but what will the others have to say about this…”

Alisa’s continued misgivings caused irritation to slowly rise inside of Lilia. Where did that girl who just before unreservedly said everything on her mind go. Without trying to conceal her displeasure, Lilia spoke sharply.

“Alisa. Alisa Felis.”

“…! Yes.”

Alisa straightened up with a tense expression. This was to be expected, since to the nobles of this country, including the family name and addressing someone by their full name was that special.
In most cases, an important order or a harsh reprimand would follow.
Lilia fixed a sharp look at Alisa, and slowly opened her mouth.

“Are you, concerned about the glances from your surroundings?”

“That is… Yes…”

Though it seemed like she wanted to deny it, upon receiving Lilia’s gaze, Alisa nodded honestly. Lilia continued.

“Why?”

“Haa… Well… Even if you ask me that…”

“Alisa Felis.”

As Lilia called her name once again, Alisa trembled and sought to hide her face in escaping her master’s gaze. After a little while, she timidly took a peek at Lilia’s expression.

“Who is your master?”

“It is, Mistress Lilia.”

“I can’t hear you.”

“My master is Mistress Lilianne Aldis!”

Alisa straightened her back and declared with a shout. Lilia, Lilianne Aldis, nodded in satisfaction.

“Right. You are mine. My personal maid.”

“Yes.”

“As someone who serves me, what in the world are you afraid of?”

At that Lilia showed a smile.
The fearsome smile, that in this academy, brought terror to all.

“Stand proud. I am saying, that I would let none raise such an objection. Any scorn directed at you, I would certainly not forgive. If anything were to happen, speak out.”

Since they will all be crushed.

It was a low, spine-chilling voice. All the while with a smiling expression. Able to bring fear to all in this academy, there stood the figure of the duke’s daughter.

“Come now, let us go.”

Lilia went up the stairs. This time Alisa as well, now silenced, followed suit.

—Lilia’s so fearsome! So cool! I fell for you all over again!

—My. That much should be natural.

—As expected of Miss Duke’s Daughter! By the way, Lilia.

Sakura put on a formal sounding tone. Lilia frowned as she climbed the staircase.

—Lilia, was actually Lilianne huh.

“That’s what’s on your mind!?”

Lilia accidentally raised her voice, and since it sounded like a shout, Alisa jumped up in shock.

“Wa-, Wah…!”

As Alisa was about to fall, Lilia grabbed her hand, pulling and supporting her body.

“Th-thank you very much Mistress Lilia…”

But Alisa was ignored. She was too preoccupied for that.

—Hey Sakura, are you kidding me? You, didn’t even know my full name?

—I had thought it was just Lilia Aldis.

—What, you…! Nh…!

Seeing the frightened Alisa before her, Lilia’s face turned into a cramped smile. Quickly averting her eyes, she climbed the stairs at a slightly heightened pace.

—Sakura. Is it really alright for me to put my faith in you?

—Of, of course you can? I’m your dear angel descended to help you!

—And yet you didn’t even know my name, it seems.

—Auu… But, it wasn’t written in the book I had after all…

Lilia frowned at Sakura’s words. If Lilia were to believe what she said, it would mean that Sakura possessed a book that had things concerning Lilia written in it. Being of Lilia’s status, that in itself would make her well known to some degree, but that was just between nobles. At the very least it wasn’t to the point where she would be mentioned in some sort of book.

—And just what book is that?

Lilia questioned. Though she already knew the answer. In these sort of situations, Sakura’s response would be as such without fail.

—Ahh…Just talking to myself.

She would never talk about anything concerning herself. Whether she thought it was something pointless to talk about, or if there were things that couldn’t be said, Lilia had no idea. If only she knew even a little about Sakura, she could begin learning more about her.
With those thoughts in mind, Lilia smiled in self-derision. She had thought about this countless times when Sakura was teaching her, and she would always reach the same conclusion. What would she even do, finding out? And so, just as she was casting away these questions without answers, they arrived on the third floor.
Similarly, from before they came up the staircase, an entryway just like the one on the first floor greeted them. As a matter of course this floor was also lined with tables and chairs, but what stood out here from the other floors, was that at first glance one could tell that everything consisted of high-class goods. Naturally, if one were to compare it to the things in the Aldis estate they would be of lower class though.
From this room stretched countless corridors, each leading to their respective residences. Just as Lilia was about to head down the corridor leading to her own room,

“Ah… Miss Lilianne.”

At the sound of that voice, Lilia’s eyes opened wide, and she was stopped in her tracks. Like she had still not completed some sort of preparation or other, upon hearing that voice, Lilia’s head turned completely blank.

“Who might this be?”

The voice came from immediately behind Lilia. Alisa was questioning the owner of the voice.

“Ah, that is… I am Tina Breyer.”

“Breyer? Of that Baron house?”

“Ye, yes.”

Tina’s voice seemed to tremble slightly. It wasn’t too surprising since up until now she had been the target of Lilia’s grief. Since that was the case however, why was it that she was going out of her way to call out to Lilia? Holding fear towards her, it should have been fine to avoid greeting Lilia. Lilia herself certainly did not want to run into her right now.

However, now that she had been called out to, she couldn’t just ignore it. If she were to say there was no problem with it, there wouldn’t really be much issue with that, but having it seem like she was the one running away from the situation was not something Lilia’s pride would allow. Lilia breathed a small sigh and then turned to face the girl.

---

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Chapter 9. Finally, arrived at the school! That cheeky Alisa~ Also, it’s exam season so please bear with the pace for now. Enjoy!

 

---

 

“Yes… Please. You don’t have to hold back.”

“Well then,” said Alisa as she cleared her throat,

“To be frank, you were a very selfish person. Furthermore, with that short temper you were also quick to be violent. One could only be amazed at how unreasonable you could be. I also felt that doing whatever it took to get your hands on the things you wanted was horrible. If nothing else because you would use the Master’s own name without reservation. Honestly, it was to the point that I had regretted coming to work here in the first place.
…What’s the matter?”

Upon noticing Lilia’s expression turn pale Alisa inquired tilting her head slightly to one side. Lilia’s face was cramped as she shook her head.

“It’s nothing… Go on…”

Saying so Alisa continued her critical criticism combo. It went to the point where rather than anger Lilia felt more like she would simply start crying. She had received similar scoldings from Sakura before, but once again, and having it said straight to her face, it was certainly something hard to endure.

“However.”

Alisa paused her words there. Looking at Lilia’s lifeless eyes, for some reason Alisa smiled.

“I know that Mistress Lilia is really a kind person. This I believe.”

“Ha…?”

Kind. Who’s kind. Even Lilia herself was of a different opinion. To Lilia, something like kindness was only seen as a tool in getting people to lower their guard. Such thinking hasn’t changed even now, so if Alisa’s words were regarding the current Lilia, that was simply a result of following Sakura’s instructions.
Thinking it couldn’t be helped, she felt just a little despondent. However, Lilia tilted her head upon hearing Alisa’s next words.

“When I was little, I was saved by Mistress Lilia.”

When Alisa saw Lilia frown dubiously, she explained with a wry smile.

“When I was still very young, I went on a trip to the Royal Capital with my family, and it was then that I had gotten separated from my parents… Losing my way, before I realised I had happened upon a large estate.”

“Is that so… Which family’s estate was it.”

—Uh, Lilia, how could any name other than “Aldis” come up here…

—Really?

—Really. Please expect such things.

Though not quite satisfied with the explanation, Lilia continued to listen to Alisa’s story.

“I don’t know what was going through my mind back then, but I ended up entering that estate… And of course, I was immediately caught.”

“That’s… You weren’t executed?”

—Uh, Lilia. Her being executed there would be ridiculous right?

—Really?

—Is the one in front of you right now a ghost or something? Is this nice story really a horror?

—Ahh…

Perhaps finally comprehending what Sakura was trying to say, Lilia went ‘I see’ and nodded in understanding. Sakura wondered if it was really okay and was worrying about something, but for now Lilia turned her attention towards Alisa.

“By all rights, even being a child it wouldn’t have been strange for me to be killed there but, it was right then that I was saved by Mistress Lilia.”

“I did? How?”

“Well you see… ‘To be wary of such a child to the point of ending her life, are you trying to stain the Aldis name’ was what you said.”

—That’s, less about kindness and more to do with your pride isn’t it…

“After that, so that I wouldn’t get killed in some alley Mistress Lilia accompanied me with an escort to help look for my family. And though I say escort, it was really the Master who came along as well.”

Alisa narrowed her eyes as if recollecting some nostalgic memories, and then let out a giggle.

“The reaction my parents had back then was quite amusing.”

—Lilia, you don’t remember?

—I’m not quite sure if I have such memories or not… Though at least, I don’t think my feelings back then were of pure good will.

—Well… Alisa probably knows that by now as well. That’s why, earlier, I think she was trying to convey that she believes in you despite that. Besides.

Sakura stopped her words. It felt like she was somehow looking at Alisa. Alisa was gazing over with an earnest expression, seemingly waiting for Lilia to speak.

—To Alisa, the fact that she was saved won’t change, so isn’t it fine regardless. That way it’s a convenient interpretation for everyone, right?

—Is that how it is?

“Alisa. To tell you the truth, I don’t quite remember what happened back then. Just, I think that at least my feelings back then were not out of simple good will.”

“Yes. I understand that now as well. However, to me the fact that I was saved will not change. That is why, if it is for my gratitude towards Mistress Lilia, I would happily give my humble assistance.”

Alisa confidently declared so. Lilia was dumbfounded for a while, but before long, without quite noticing it herself her expression turned into a smile.

“Take good care of me, Alisa.”

“Yes. Please allow me to be of assistance.”

Alisa bowed deeply, and Lilia nodded in satisfaction.

The dormitory was the largest building on the academy grounds. Since all the students in the school lived there, you could say it was a matter of course. The dormitory stood three stories tall, with the first housing things like the cafeteria and shops, with all the common necessities prepared. Upon entering the grand entrance hall, tables, chairs and such are prepared all around as well, creating an oasis for the students.
Lined up on the second level were the rooms for commoners, merchants, and lower ranking nobles, and the upper nobles had their rooms on the third floor.
Lilia and Alisa entered the dorms through the great entryway. There would be a mass of students bustling around the building before and after class time, but right now as lunch had just gone by and the afternoon classes had already begun it was quiet and empty. The entrance was devoid of people, and only the sound of Lilia and Alisa’s footsteps resounded through the building.
At the very back of the entrance hall was a spiral staircase, and as Lilia took her first step up Alisa opened her mouth.

“Ummm… Mistress Lilia…”

“What is it?”

“Am I really… also going to be in Mistress Lilia’s room?”

‘To ask again now,’ thought Lilia as she looked back at the maid. Alisa’s eyes were wavering uneasily.

“Is there a problem with that?”

“A problem so to speak… That is, such a thing is unheard of right? For a lowly maid to stay beside nobility in the same room…”

---

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Sorry it’s been a while, but I’ve been busy and all that. You know, classic real life stuff. Also I did mention before that my releases weren’t always going to be as frequent as the beginning. I do feel bad that after all this time we still haven’t even gotten to the school yet, but yeah, finals start next week for me. I’ll try to squeeze out at least one or two a week though. Anyways here’s chapter 8, enjoy!

 

---

 

Even though Sakura said so, no matter how much Lilia tried to think about it understanding just wouldn’t come to her. She felt that just thinking about it was probably useless.

“Hey, Alisa.”

When Lilia called out to Alisa sitting opposite to her, a reply of “yes” came immediately.

“I can’t quite seem to figure out what Theo’s intentions were back there. Do you get it, Alisa?”

“That’s… I somewhat understand, but I can’t be sure that I’m correct.”

“Is that so…”

Alisa knew. Therefore recalling all the things that have happened up to now, Lilia should also be able to reach somewhat of an answer. The events of today, and at that just thinking back to the encounter with Theo, the conclusion she reached was,

“He wanted to get along better with me…?”

After muttering such, Lilia immediately said in self derision.

“As if, like that could be the case. There should be a limit to being self conscious.”

Hearing that, Sakura gave a small sigh, and Alisa lowered her eyebrows sadly, but Lilia noticed neither of them.

The distance from the Aldis duke estate to the academy could be traversed in around three hours by coach. With that in mind even if one left the estate in the afternoon they could arrive on the same day with time to spare. However, for today Alisa wanted to rest easy in the dormitory, and departed from the estate before noon to avoid having to run into anyone. After classes ended people would be returning to the dorm in the evening, so if she entered her room now there should be no one there to question her.
The prince’s declaration of the break-off to their engagement should already be well known by now. Just imagining the gazes from her surroundings brought her dread. That said, it would be impossible to attend school without running into anyone. Today would be the only exception.

—Nothing will change even if you run away right?

—Oh shut up…

Lilia too understood that much. That’s why, it was just for today. Diving into the atmosphere at school, she would use tonight to properly harden her resolve. She knew that it was just an excuse to herself. Even so, to Lilia this was the only choice she could take.
A little past noon, the academy’s structure came into view.
The academy’s grounds were quite large. Along with the enormous school building for education, training and various other sporting facilities also existed. For times of rain, there were even indoor athletic buildings on campus. What’s more, though placed at a corner of the academy, there stood the dormitories boasting a size even greater than the main school building itself.

“Mistress Lilia. I…”

With one look at the academy Alisa turned around to face her master. Before she could continue her words, Lilia, anticipating her question answered preemptively.

“You will be in the same room as me.”

“Eh…”

“My, is there a problem?”

As Lilia narrowed her eyes and questioned the maid, Alisa flusteredly shook her head. Lilia accepted the response, and looked away.

—To be stuck with noisy Miss Selfish from dawn till dusk, how pitiful.

—And who might that be.

—Really, I wonder?

It was a voice that seemed to carry with it a mean-spirited smirk. Lilia knit her eyebrows,

“After all I’m just so loud and selfish right?”

Lilia sulked as she said that. Sakura was laughing and said that it was a joke, and,

“Tha-that’s not what I thought at all!”

Alisa shouted simultaneously. Lilia stiffened in surprise. Even Sakura hadn’t expected Alisa to respond to Lilia’s quiet mutter, and was at a loss for words.
Alisa was gazing over with an earnest expression. Lilia thought for a moment, and nodded lightly.

—There’s no difference between talking to her now or tonight right?

—Yep, I’ll leave it to you.

Receiving Sakura’s acknowledgement, Lilia opened her mouth.

“Hey, Alisa. Is that really true?”

“Of course! That’s definitely not what I was thinking about the current Mistress Lilia!”

“Then, what about right now?”

“That’s… of course I don’t think that way.”

Though Lilia decided to overlook the slight pause in Alisa’s words, she did not feel particularly displeased about it. It was an expected response.

“Alisa. Our voices here will not be heard at the driver’s stand right?”

“Eh? Yes, it will not reach but…”

“Then let’s have a frank discussion.”

Lilia said as she fixed up her posture, and Alisa’s expression turned serious.

“You see, I’ve decided to change. For that purpose I’ve studied things I didn’t want to, and worked to fixed my quick temper. But, by myself there are limits to what can be accomplished, and the people around me would certainly be unable to understand me.”

That was to say she was only making use of Sakura’s words. Lilia herself, to this day, did not fully understand where all of her own faults were. Even so, in this one week, it was certain that she managed to somewhat change the people in her estate’s perception of her. That was why Lilia listened to Sakura. That was why she simply followed Sakura’s words.

“I, to change myself, want someone to assist me. Someone who knows well what I was like before, a person who can tell me ‘no’ when I need it.”

“Is that… What you wish of me?”

“That’s right. I wouldn’t be saying all this otherwise right?”

Alisa closed her eyes, and fell silent. Her expression remained serious. Lilia refrained from interrupting her thoughts, and waited silently for her answer. As they continued to simply leave their bodies to the jostling of the carriage, finally as the academy drew up close in front of them, Alisa opened her mouth.

“Mistress Lilia. Please tell me just one thing.”

“What?”

“Are you still aiming for His Highness?”

‘How blunt,’ thought Lilia as she smiled bitterly inside. With a level expression, she shook her head.

“I’m over it already.”

“Really?”

“Well I would be lying if I said that there were no lingering feelings at all though.”

With some self ridicule in her answer, Alisa finally showed a smile. With an ‘I understand’, she gave a nod,

“If you are fine with me, please allow me to provide assistance. I am Mistress Lilia’s personal maid after all.”

At Alisa’s response, Lilia also gave a satisfied nod. As Sakura said, there was a considerable difference between having or not having a helper at one’s side. It was a pillar of emotional support, and in a certain sense that was the most important part.
With an ‘I’m in your care’, Lilia returned her sight to look outside the coach. She did so, a little happy, though mostly out of
embarrassment, but Alisa took no notice and continued to speak.

“Well then, as to my view of what sort of person Mistress Lilia has been up until now, should I give a description here?”

---

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Chapter 7. Also a shorter one. Enjoy!

 

---

 

“It seems that it was our misunderstanding huh.”

Kelvin sighed and fixed his posture. Klaus still had a difficult expression on his face as he glared at the documents.

“What, is there something else?”

To Kelvin’s question, Klaus present the papers to him.

“Father. Are you able to calculate these on the spot?”

Giving just one look at the documents he received, Kelvin shook his head.

“Impossible. It’ll probably take some time, and doing it in your head would be difficult as well.”

“Then regarding Lilia?”

“……”

Kelvin again lowered his sight to the documents. He tried to roughly do some calculations, but using only mental arithmetic turned out to be quite undoable in the end.

“I heard from the report of that Alisa girl that Lilia has been secluding herself in her room to study but… Is this result even possible to achieve?”

What’s more it was self-study. According to Alisa, it seemed that she was using a huge quantity of paper to write on, but other than the maid no one else appeared to have ever entered Lilia’s room.

“As one would expect from our daughter. Is this not a wonderful thing?”

Ascha laughed happily. Certainly if their daughter was heading in a bad direction they must do their best to set her straight, but change for the better should be welcomed.

“Though it seems that she might be trying too hard here.”

Kelvin also shared Ascha’s worry. However you put it, she had secluded herself in her room for two whole weeks after all. She might have shown improvement during the second week through doing things like raising flowers and coming out for meals, but even so some worry remained.

“Klaus. Is there someone available right now?”

“Yes, of course. It has already been arranged for.”

To Kelvin’s question, Klaus boasted with an unsettling smile. Confirming, a smile also floated onto Kelvin’s face. The secretive smiles plastered on their faces were indeed somewhat creepy. One wouldn’t be able to imagine that they were fighting just earlier.

“She’s my dear beloved daughter after all. I leave it to you, Klaus.”

“She’s my lovely little sister after all. Please leave everything to me, Father.”

Despite saying this or that, these two really care about Lilia.
Ascha, regarding their awkwardness, simply quietly asked to the side for a maid to bring more red tea.

Lilia requested for Alisa to have the luggage in her room loaded onto the coach, while she herself went for a walk in the garden with Theo. She didn’t remember ever having much proper conversations with this little brother of hers before. This was because, Lilia herself had always kept a distance from him.
After all this little brother could do anything. A bona fide genius. Therefore the reason for staying away from such a brother, was simple jealousy. But even so for some reason, this little brother would always seek out Lilia himself and speak to her with a smile as if somehow enjoying it all. It was troublesome to no end.
Today as well, Theo was walking along beside Lilia with a delighted smile.

“Elder Sister. Which one is your flowerbed? I really wish to see it.”

“Why are you wanting to see such a thing? Though, I don’t really mind.”

While thinking it odd, Lilia showed Theo to the back of the estate.
Among the many flowerbeds, was one with plants just starting to sprout. This was Lilia and Alisa’s flowerbed. Though she had just a tiny suspicion that he may have come to mock it, the words Theo breathed out next were completely outside of her expectations.

“What will become of this while Elder Sister is staying at school?”

“No idea… I haven’t thought about that yet. Alisa will be coming along with me after all.”

“Then, please let me help with this!”

Lilia’s eyes went round at Theo’s request. “Why” was the first question to pop into her mind. Certainly if it’s Theo, he would be able to quickly learn all he needed to know about gardening, so it should be fine to leave it to him. However, Lilia couldn’t fathom if his intentions were all pure.

“Even if it’s not mine, you can probably have your own flowerbed prepared just by speaking to Father though.”

“I wish to take care of Elder Sister’s flowerbed!”

It was too much for her to comprehend. So much so, her eyes ended up changing to stare at Theo as if he was a strange animal. Receiving such a look from Lilia, Theo lowered his gaze. And then came back with upturned eyes as he pleaded.

“Is it…no good?”

While thinking it completely unfair to wield such a tear filled expression, Lilia kept this thought from her mouth.

—You might as well just leave it to him.

—Well I suppose that’s fine but… Do you know what Theo’s trying to accomplish here?

—Rather than a goal I do know his reason. You don’t get it, Lilia?

Why was it, that even though Sakura’s figure couldn’t be seen, a young girl’s mocking expression floated into her head. While holding onto some irritation, Lilia felt that continuing to respond to this will just end up in her defeat, so she discontinued the conversation there.

“Alright, I understand. I’ll leave it to you, Theo.”

“…!! Yes! Thank you very much!”

Theo said so with a smile radiant like flowers in full bloom. Even relatives would see it as exceedingly charming. Just how many women would be taken captive by this smile.

—Lilia. You should go teach Theo on how to do gardening.

—Even without my help, wouldn’t he just learn from one of the maids.

—Just do it okay.

With how Sakura was insisting, perhaps this was also a step in getting people to like her.

“Theo. Well then I’ll be teaching you how to do it, so you’d better listen up.”

“Yes! Please by all means!”

Theo stood straight up. Lilia gave a nod of satisfaction, and continued.

“First for planting the seeds, you dig up the dirt put the seed in and then cover it up again. That’s it.”

—I think you’re being a little too careless about this!

Sakura shouted as if sighing, and,

“Mistress Lilia…”

Not realising when she appeared, a little bit away stood Alisa who spoke out at the same time with her eyebrows hanging in sadness.

“…… I was joking.”

With Theo’s bewildered eyes and Alisa’s pitying gaze, Lilia looked away as if escaping from their sights.

After that, together with Alisa, Lilia taught Theo in the ways of gardening. That said, Lilia’s knowledge was somewhat limited, so the teaching was mostly through Alisa’s assistance here. Even so Theo was for some reason very fixated on the teachings he received from Lilia, while giving little heed to the things Alisa said to supplement Lilia’s explanations.
Even now she did not really get what kind of situation that was.
Jostled around on the coach headed for the academy, Lilia thought back to what happened that time. Having given up on thinking about it she tried to get an answer from Sakura, but was only met with a cold refusal.

—You should really try to better understand other people’s feelings, Lilia. How about you give it a good thinkin’ until we reach the academy?

---

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>