Uhh, don’t mind me, just a dead man’s ghost doing ghostly things.

 

---

 

“I’m so glad you like it! I bought this from the shopping district to the south of the school.”

“The south side…”

In a certain sense, the school grounds could be split up by region. The north was connected to the area nobles resided in, and so much of the stores in the north side were geared towards catering to nobles. In contrast the south side was connected to where commoners and lower class nobles lived. Naturally, the shops there were more oriented for the masses.

While going to buy it only posed a problem of face and pride for the Aldis family, it was still a problem that couldn’t just be ignored.

“I can bring some more next time if you’d like.”

Though it was unclear if she had seen through Lilia’s internal conflict, Tina said such. Lilia slightly lowered the corners of her eyes, and gratefully accepted her offer.

Leaving the snacks she received to Alisa, Lilia left the room with Tina. She left telling Alisa she and the three agents could try the remaining dorayaki. There were five left, so there might still be one remaining when she got back. Actually she hoped they would leave the last one, and was regretting that she didn’t tell Alisa so.

—If you wanted to eat more you could have just said so.

—And just who was it that told me to tell Alisa to share it with everyone?

—It was me. Sorry.

It was to capture people’s hearts, was what Sakura said, but what kind of cheap heart would it be if it was swayed by some dorayaki? When she was thinking that,

“Lilia’s actually really kind huh. To tell you the truth I’d thought you were a much more scarier person…”

That sentence seemed to come with freakishly on point timing. There was no way she could admit that it was by the instructions of the evil spirit possessing her, so Lilia just gave a vague smile.

—Tina’s a really good girl after all. By the way Lilia, wasn’t there something pretty rude that slid out of your thoughts just now? Something about an evil spirit.

—Oh my. Aren’t you one?

—I’ve said it clearly haven’t I! I’m an Angel! A dear Angel! I’m the dear angel that’s here to help you!

—Isn’t it depressing to say that on your own?

—You’re really not holding back where it hurts huh! I-it’s not like that actually hurts or a-…

Sakura’s words stopped midway. As Lilia made a confused expression, Sakura went ‘uwah’, and said with a disgusted voice.

—Lilia. It’s the Prince.

—Hah…?

Lilia’s face stiffened.

“What are you doing?”

And that voice was heard at the same time.

“Ah… Your Highness…”

Tina let out a dumbfounded voice. Towards the direction the voice came from, Lilia turned her around.

“My, your Highness. What might be the matter?”

“Don’t play dumb. Just where are you thinking of dragging Tina to?”

The Prince drew closer to Lilia. Lilia made an annoyed seeming sigh, and fixed a smile to her face. That was,

“……!”

The usual, smile.

“Your Highness. To say nothing of dragging around, did you know that Miss Tina is the one leading the way here? I am currently going with Miss Tina to head for some dinner together.”

“Hmph. As if I’d believe that. Aren’t you just instructing her to walk out in front? So that if someone… If for example myself were to see you would have an excuse.”

—Uwah, what’s with this guy. How annoying.

—I must currently wholeheartedly agree with you there.

Normally she would have openly cautioned her about such thoughts, but Lilia herself, seemed to have cooled down towards this man so she had no intention of finding fault with it. Together with Sakura, the two of them shared their feelings about what a troublesome guy this Prince was when,

“What’s wrong, why aren’t you saying anything? Cause I hit the bulls eye right?”

The Prince said with a triumphant smile on his face.

—So this is the so called doyagao! Doyaa!

—Doya… What?

—It’s nothing. If I had to describe it, then it’s basically the Prince’s face right now.

—Ahh. So a face that makes you want to crush in your hands huh.

—Scary! That’s way too much! But I agree!

While making some banter with Sakura as a form of escapism, Lilia breathed a small sigh. She looked away from the Prince and turned to Tina. The Prince, he probably hasn’t even noticed Tina’s expression that’s been driven to the brink of tears.

As she tried to reassure her with a soft smile, Tina, though still with the corners of her eyes drooping, returned a smile in kind.

“Despite your kind invitation, since there’s been a boorish interruption let us call it off here.”

“Yes… Sorry about that, Miss Lilia.”

“No need for apologies. A certain boorish, intruding, someone from somewhere is to blame after all.”

Firmly punctuating her words, she eyes didn’t spare a single glance away from the Prince as she said so. The Prince’s face was turning seething red, but whatever.

“Well then, I will take my leave.”

She turned around on the spot. Before heading back towards her room, she moved just her lips to mouth a farewell.

See you later.

She wasn’t sure if it was properly conveyed, but Tina gave a firm nod in return.

The Prince shouted something or other in an attempt to stop Lilia, but she completely ignored such a thing. It didn’t even register in her mind. No matter what the idiot is shouting, it was all ignored, and she headed back towards her room.

When she got back, she was greeted by a wide-eyed Alisa.

“This is quite an early return… I’m surprised.”

As Alisa said so, Lilia just shrugged.

“We bumped into his Highness. It was troublesome so I returned.”

“Those words may be too much, Mistress Lilia.”

Even though she cautioned her, Alisa also had wry smile all the while. It seemed she wasn’t actually serious about it. Alisa probably had some of her own thoughts after seeing Lilia’s exchange with the Prince yesterday. Lilia simply accepted Alisa’s words, and shrugged her shoulders.

“It seems, we’ve missed out on dinner tonight…”

—Food…

Together with Sakura, she gave a heavy sigh. Since they were indeed quite looking forward to it, the shock was all the greater.

“Mistress Lilia. There is one dorayaki still remaining, how about it?”

“I’ll take it. After I eat that, I’m going to sleep.”

She was totally just going to sulk in the bed, but this time neither Alisa nor Sakura said anything about it. Receiving the dorayaki from Alisa, she went into her bedroom just like that, halfheartedly got changed and laid down on the bed.

 

---

 

Author’s Note:
The Prince doesn’t have any good points at all huh… He wasn’t really supposed to be a bad guy though…

TL Note:
Doyagao is basically like a really smug looking face, maybe similar to the lenny face in the west. Apparently the term came about because ‘Douda'(‘How about that!’) is ‘Douya’ in Kansai dialect. Cue a bunch of funny people doing their thing(lots of comedians there) and thus the term ‘Doya(How’s that!)gao(face)’ was coined.
e.g. something like this:

Sakura

Lilia

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Guess I hold my monthly quota for now. Enjoy!

 

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“Alisa. Sorry, but could I get you to make another cup?”

“Yes, certainly.”

Bowing respectfully, Alisa went to prepare some more tea. After seeing her off, Lilia once again returned her gaze to the trio.

In truth, Lilia herself knew of the fact that she was overdoing it. By all means, Sakura would probably be cautioning her as well at this point. However, this case was simply unforgivable. If they came here under her brother’s orders, then there was also a chance that they’d never gotten in touch with her father. In that case it wouldn’t be surprising for them to not know that Lilia had received Alisa as her own maid. Nonetheless, that didn’t matter a single bit to Lilia. If the ones who’s very job was to seek out information neglected to find out about such a thing, then it was no excuse to her.

—I-is it over? It’s over right?

—Yes. Come to think of it you were pretty silent.

—Yeah… Cause it was scary… I could tell that you were angry for real, so I kept quiet

—Ahh, I see. Sorry, that must have startled you.

She gave a gentle apology. Seeing that, Sakura seemed to convey a sense of surprise.

—Well, okay. I think it’s fine. It really shows just how much you value Alisa after all. It’s a good development, so I won’t say anything more.

—I see. Thanks.

—Though this was going a bit overboard.

—Right, yes… I’ll reflect on it.

Calming herself down, she slowly drew in a breath and let it out. In that interval, no one spoke a word. The space was dominated by a heavy silence. Lilia once again gazed at the three. The two men were able to receive her gaze, but the girl was clearly frightened as she averted her eyes.

The younger man noticed that, and sent her a sidelong glare. The girl was startled and her body once again began to tremble, as she apologised and hung her head on the spot.

—This is, from her being frightened by me? Did I do something?

—Anyone would be scared by that gaze of yours, have some self awareness.

—I haven’t really gotten angry at her yet though.

—Seeing your anger at all is more than enough!

I suppose that’s how it is, thought Lilia. Lilia made her best effort at putting on a smile, and looked to the girl. The girl’s trembling worsened.

—I didn’t think she was this scared of me.

—Yup. How about we give up on reconciling and just talk about their work or something?

—I suppose so.

Lilia let out a clear small sigh, and turned to the old man. The girl’s face had become completely pale, but whatever. The younger man let out a disappointed sigh at the girl.

“I wonder if it is alright for me to give you guys work to do as well?”

Not expecting such a thing to come from Lilia’s mouth, the old man’s eyes widened. Though perhaps as expected of an agent he wiped the expression from his face in an instant.

“Master Claus had ordered us to provide aid to Mistress Lilia. Please order us as you wish.”

“I see. Then I’ll have you do some background checks on a few people.”

“Background checks, is it. Of whom shall it be?”

“For now, do everyone in my class. Ahh, of course His Highness is an exception. Also, do one for a boy named Ray who often studies in the library.”

Probably astonished at the number of people, this time it was the younger man who’s face was tinged with a slight frown. Though as expected this one also quickly erased his reaction.

“That is a fair amount of people and thus would certainly require some time, if that is acceptable?”

“Yes. Let’s have regularly… Let’s see, come give a report once a day. This girl can do it.”

The one Lilia pointed to with her finger was the girl who’d been frightened this entire time. The girl’s expression became as if she had seen the end of the world, but Lilia wasn’t going to try to change her opinion at this point.

“Are there any problems?”

“Nay, no problems at all. Your orders have been received.”

She had intended to ask the girl, but it was the old man who replied. Lilia looked down with slight disappointment, then quickly shook her head. Coming back to herself, she continued.

“I’ll be leaving it to you.”

The three gave a firm nod, and returned into the hole in the ceiling. Seeing them off, Lilia gave a small sigh.

—By the way Sakura. Is there still anyone around? Or has everyone gone?

—Of course there’s at least one person still remaining. They’ve got to have a guard for you around after all.

—It’s fine even if they didn’t. I’ve never heard of anyone getting attacked inside the academy.

—Lilia. There’s more to it than just what’s seen on the surface.

Lilia made a slight frown. The way Sakura spoke, it was as if something really had happened in the past.

—There are reckless ones out there as well you know.

Sakura gave a cheerful laugh.

 

 

“Mistress Lilia. A guest.”

After the three spies left, Lilia was studying in her bedroom when Alisa called out to her. Having an idea as to who the visitor was, Lilia smiled wryly as she rose from her chair. When she got to the door, as expected, there stood Tina.

“Good evening, Lilia. Wanna, go for some dinner? Ah, here.”

Lilia ended up reflexively receiving the small paper box Tina presented. Taking a look, there were a few baked sweets inside.

“Thanks for inviting me. What is this?”

“It’s dorayaki. You don’t know of it?”

“I’ve heard of it, but it’s the first time I’m seeing the actual thing…”

She grabbed one to give it a try. It still had a faint warmth. It seems it was freshly bought. Lilia timidly took a bite.

“…!”

—Delicious…!

—It’s dorayaki! I can’t believe they have them here as well! Maybe there are others too?

—Others? There are more things like this?

—There are! There are lots! Like taiyaki or daifuku!

Taking a not insignificant interest in it, Lilia looked at Tina. Tina was sporting a joyous, full faced smile.

 

---

 

Author’s Note:
Even now the three agents’ names still haven’t been revealed. What should we do…

TL Note:
Though I’m sure many of you are probably already acquainted with these Japanese snacks, I might as well put some food pictures here now that I have the chance.

Dorayaki is a Japanese treat that’s basically some red bean paste (or other filling) jammed between two castella cakes. Also famous as Doraemon’s favourite food or something, and you can probably guess why.

Taiyaki is a well known Japanese treat that’s basically batter fried in the shape of a fish with red bean paste (or other fillings) inside. Commonly seen in anime and whatnot.

Daifuku is mochi stuffed with sweet red bean paste (or other filling, duh) and can come in a variety of colours.

Sakura

Lilia

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

This chapter’s a bit early, but I’ve been spending a bit more time translating lately because doing BokuNana has been refreshing. Think of it as a late Valentine’s present or something. Enjoy!

 

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“……”

It was the same old bedroom she saw this morning. The room was cleaned and the bed was made, but that was it. Just what was she trying to hide?

—Sakura. Perhaps…

—It’s just like a Ninja! Awesome!

—Ninja? What’s that?

—Uhm… they’re spies from a faraway country in the east, or something like that, maybe?

How ambiguous, Lilia thought with a wry smile as she returned to the table and sank back into the chair. Tapping the table with her finger, Alisa quickly went to go prepare some black tea for her. Watching her as she worked, Lilia went,well then, as she opened her mouth.

“I don’t know if it’s by Father’s or Elder Brother’s orders but… Come out here.”

Alisa’s movements stiffened. Forcing a stiff smile to her face she turned towards Lilia.

“Uhm, Miss Lilia? What might you be talking about…?”

At Alisa’s words, Lilia’s eyes narrowed in displeasure. Having that chilly glance directed at her, Alisa went let out a short shriek.

“Alisa. You are my maid.”

“Y-yes…”

“You belong to me. Are you trying to hide something from me?”

“That is… well…”

Alisa was unable to give a response and looked away, casting her eyes down. Her expression looked like it was about to break into tears. In actuality, Lilia didn’t intend to condemn Alisa that much. The contract was with her Father, and for any orders from the Aldis house a subordinate could nary ignore such a thing.
That’s why, there were others that she should be blaming.

—Sakura. Where are they?

—Nnnn… About here and in the middle of the bedroom. Hidden in the ceiling. Two of them. One in the bedroom.

How’d she know all this, Lilia was surprised inside, as she turned her eyes towards the places that were pointed out. Lilia couldn’t see anything, but if Sakura was declaring so then they must be there.

“For the time being the two over there, come down. As for the one in the bedroom… well whatever. Afterwards, I, will go, have a chat, alone.”

Making sure she showed her smile, Lilia spun each word one after the other. *Kata*, and so came a light sound from the ceiling. How pathetic, to be rattled by something of this degree, thought Lilia as she tapped the table like she was urging them. At first slowly, and since they still did not come down she increased her pace.

“Goodness gracious… You got me.”

Where she felt she saw thee ceiling sink inwards, it slid to the side, and two men descended. The two were dressed in black, one an old man, the other seeming to be in his middle ages. Coming before Lilia, they got on one knee and lowered their heads.

“This would be our first meeting, I think. I am…”

“Your name doesn’t matter.”

Lilia declared like a slap in the face. Having his words interrupted the old man frowned slightly, lifting his face.

“Get the one in the bedroom as well.”

“Nay, there should not be anyone more.”

“Do I need to repeat myself?”

She once again began to tap the table. Slowly at first, then gradually quickening. Though he probably didn’t know the exact meaning behind this the old man seemed to feel a chilling intent, and with a stiff smile, excused himself as he lowered his head.

“I will call them at once. …Oi.”

At the old man’s severe voice, the other man nodded, and returned up into the ceiling. Lilia was a bit surprised at how he went back into the hole from before with a single leap, but she didn’t allow it to show on her face in the slightest.

After waiting a few seconds, the man descended from the ceiling again. And this time with him was one more, a girl, who should have been around the same age as Lilia. Her face was concealed with a mask so it was hard to tell for sure.

“Oh good.”

Lilia said so gently, and the three kneeling before her looked up.

“If it was a man in the bedroom, I might just have killed all three of you.”

She said such words with a smile, and the three deeply lowered their heads. These three probably knew, that Lilia wasn’t just saying so as an example, but conveyed reality. Most spies who wrought their master’s wrath would not live to tell the tale.

—Scary! Lilia’s scary! That’s no Lilia of mine!

—Who belongs to who now? More importantly this is everyone right?

—Nn… Yup. No doubt about it this is all of them.

—Is that so. Got it.

“Lift your faces.”

Lilia said so as she tapped the table with her finger. Without a word, the three silently lifted their faces.

“Under who’s orders were you sent here?”

The old man answered Lilia question. Master Claus, he said.

“I see. Elder brother was it. Hmmm…”

Lilia nodded, and sent her gaze towards Alisa. Alisa seemed to remember then, as she began to prepare the tea.

“And? Who is the one in charge here? Well, I more or less have an idea already though.”

When Lilia looked at the old man, he also returned her gaze, and gave a single nod.

“Well then I have something I want to ask you.”

“Anything my lady.”

“On who’s authority, did you order Alisa? Aside from yourselves, you were also giving orders to her no?”

Lilia’s tone lowered all at once. The two men, perhaps as would be expected did not stir in the slightest, but the young girl was shaking ever so slightly. She had yet to mature unlike the others, how lovely.

“Did you not hear me?”

When Lilia asked for the second time, the old man again lowered his head.

“Master Claus, said that it would be fine to make use of those serving the Aldis house.”

“I see. That’s quite the frank way of speaking, was that also how Elder Brother conveyed it?”

“It is as you surmise.”

“Really. In that case, I suppose I should offer my gratitude as well.”

Alisa put the cup of black tea on the table. Lilia took one sip, and then,

“…!”

She threw it just like that. The still hot tea splashed onto the old man, and his face made a slight grimace. However Lilia’s anger had yet to dissipate, and she forcefully struck the table with her fist. At the loud bang, the young girl’s trembling intensified.

“On, just, who’s, authority, did you order Alisa.”

Lilia slowly stood up. She had a sweet-looking smile on her face, yet her eyes alone were perfectly focused down on them.

“I’ll have you understand something.”

“Yes…”

“Alisa is my maid. Not a maid of Aldis, my maid. Towards this maid of mine, on just who’s authority did you order her with?”

“My deepest apologies.”

The old man further lowered his head, and the other two followed suit. Lilia stared at them emotionlessly for a while, but eventually she released her gaze, and sat back down into the chair.

 

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Author’s remark: I’ve been feeling that her villainess disposition has been lacking lately, so I tried to supplement it a bit.

Sakura

Lilia

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Current plan is to just release at least once a month if I can. Seems no other translator is too interested in giving some life to the dead-crawl pace the release this series has with me, so 20 years is seeming pretty likely at this point. In fact it’s so slow I actually feel bad for people would be trying to keep up with this since they’ll probably have forgotten and need to re-read the old chapters every time a new one’s out. But, well, if you’re still reading then thanks, and I applaud your tenacity.

Enjoy!

 

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With Ray’s help, they somehow managed to finish all of the sandwiches. Reminding herself to let them know she was only ordering for one person tomorrow, Lilia looked at Ray. After finishing his meal and making some black tea for Lilia, he had opened up the books on the desk and was studying.

Incidentally the black tea was prepared from a table in a corner of the room. A small magic formation was drawn on it. Lilia hadn’t known what kind of formation it was, but according to Sakura it seemed to be for emitting heat. To say nothing of bringing a lunchbox, it seemed that Ray really didn’t intend to leave the room, and the library as a whole.
Lilia eyes went to Ray’s reference book. She posed a question.

—Sakura. It should be fine, not going to afternoon lessons right?

—Nn? Well your grades are good so there shouldn’t be any issues, what’s up?

Without responding to Sakura’s question, Lilia moved to Ray’s side. With his eyes down at his books Ray didn’t notice her until she leaned towards the study materials with a ‘Well then’.

“Eh? Wawah!”

Ignoring Ray who flung himself backwards, Lilia peered at the contents. After reading a bit of it, she turned to face Ray.

“So? Which parts are giving you trouble? …What’s wrong?”

Lilia raised her eyebrows in confusion, seeing that Ray’s face had turned beet red. When Lilia looked and faced him directly, he was producing nothing but vague ‘ah’ and ‘uu’ sounds as his eyes swam all over the place. Just what in the world is going on, wondered Lilia, tilting her head.

—Lilia. I’ll ask just in case, but was this intentional?

—Ha? Was what intentional?

—Uwah this girl’s a real airhead… Lilia, in the end you’re still a girl, so you shouldn’t just get so up close with a boy you know.

—What might you be implying by the ‘in the end’ part?

—Hiee! That part got a reaction! I’m sorry please forget it!

—Not happening. Let’s go eat some green peppers later.

—Pleease-noot-thaat!

Finally seeming to recover, Ray returned to Lilia’s side. However he seemed to wonder about something, as he examined Lilia’s expression. Lilia just shrugged her shoulders and tapped her finger on the books.

“There isn’t a problem even if I don’t show up to the afternoon lessons. In fact it’s so simple I’d only be bored there. That’s why I’ll just help with your studies here.”

“Eh… But, well… I’d be happy to have that but… Is it really alright?”

“I’m saying it’s fine so it’s fine. Come on, the clock’s ticking. Let’s get started.”

As Lilia tapped the books with her finger again, Ray’s body trembled with a start, but he soon started smiling.

—Well, I guess some recreation is also important. If there’s anything you’ve forgotten then just speak up yeah? I’ll give you a refresher.

—I don’t think there should be anything, but if it comes to that I’ll be counting on you.

Reading the page Ray had opened, Lilia nodded.

As the time neared the end of afternoon lessons, Lilia closed the materials with a ‘let’s stop here for now’. The exhausted looking Ray let out a sigh of relief, but Lilia decided to overlook it.

—A total Spartan. A demon. It’s Spartillia.

—Green peppers.

—I’m sorry!

It’s like a magic word, thought Lilia as she bantered with Sakura, laughing in her mind. However if she went too far Sakura would likely get angry for real so it was probably best to keep it in moderation. Right now, Sakura was one of the few people who could be counted as Lilia’s ally, though it’s unclear whether you could even count her as an actual ‘person’.

“Thank you very much, Miss Lilia. Your teaching was very easy to understand.”

Ray said so as he lowered his head. Lilia simply responded with ‘that’s good then’ and nodded.

“Ray. If you don’t want to it’s fine to refuse but…”

“What is it?”

“You’re always here studying right?”

Ray nodded reservedly as usual to Lilia’s question. Lilia continued.

“If it’s alright with you, that is… Should I start coming here in the afternoons? I can definitely help teach you whatever is within my range of knowledge.”

Ray’s eyes went wide, and Sakura was rendered speechless. The extent of the two’s surprise was clear as day, making Lilia avert her eyes with a slight hint of sullenness.

“If me being here is a bit suffocating, then I won’t force you. This is also just a diversion for myself, so I thought I might as well just throw the suggestion out there. Please forget I said anything.”

Ending with that, Lilia started preparing to depart. That said, all that was needed was tidying up her own rubbish and putting it into the basket. As she finished that and was heading to the door,

“Miss Lilia!”

She was stopped by Ray. When she turned around, Ray lightly cleared his throat.

“Are you… Really okay with, doing that for me?”

Being asked so timidly for such, Lilia gave a small wry smile, nodding ‘of course’. Seeing that a smile filled Ray’s entire face as he lowered his head.

“Please take good care of me!”

“Yes. Well then I will see you tomorrow, I’ll be coming at the same time as today.”

Leaving those words, Lilia exited the room.

Perhaps due to having returned somewhat early, the presence of students could barely be seen in the dorm. After checking if any acquaintances, particularly the prince, were around, Lilia passed through the entrance and headed straight to her room. Only after finally reaching her own quarters, did Lilia let out a breath of relief.

—We were able to get back safely today as well…

—It’s like you’re a soldier returning home from battle huh. Though it might actually be a battlefield to you. Even if you’re just constantly running away.

—Oh shut up…

When Lilia sat down on a chair, the bedroom door suddenly flew open. As Lilia’s eyes widened in surprise, Alisa was standing there all out of breath. Even with her face being slightly pale, she vigorously gave a bow.

“Apologies for my tardiness…! Welcome back, Mistress Lilia.”

“You don’t really…”

have to mind it so much, was what Lilia was about to say, when her face turned to a frown. As she moved her sight towards the dimly lit bedroom, Alisa seemed frantic as she quickly shut the door. Is she even aware that doing such a thing is basically declaring that you’re trying to hide something?
Lilia wordlessly stood, walked to where Alisa was, and without giving the girl any time to try and stop her she opened the door to the bedroom.

 

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Sakura

Lilia

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

This might be the last one for a while, but who knows…
Anyways, enjoy!

 

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For some reason, Sakura was quiet for a while. Just as she was about to give up on the idea, thinking that it would be bad to go by herself after all, Sakura’s voice came.

—By ‘that’ cafeteria… You mean the one you went to last night, right…?

—What other one is there?

—Ah, yep. Umm… No problem, I think. Yup. Might not be a bad idea.

It seemed that Sakura wasn’t against it. Lilia sighed in relief and got up. She headed for the cafeteria by herself.

—What’s with this change of attitude?

—It’s not like… It’s just because the food yesterday was tasty, is that not enough?

—It’s enough of a reason. Rather I think it’s a good thing. Alright let’s go quickly let’s go!

Just as she was wondering if this was really that unexpected of a thing, it really was, when she thought about it. Lilia herself, if not for yesterday, would probably never set foot in such a place. It’s just that she really couldn’t forget the flavour of the cooking from yesterday. She wanted to at least completely finish a meal there.

—Ah, green peppers are no good! Make sure to ask for sans green peppers alright!

—I know I know. I’ll ask them about it.

Lilia held no small amount of anticipation, as she headed for the cafeteria.

The cafeteria was very crowded. You could tell that even just from looking inside while passing by the front. And that was enough to have Lilia give up.

—Lilia. What about lunch?

—Isn’t it way too crowded… I’m good for today…

—Dinner is free for students to decide, but everyone has to eat lunch at the same time after all. Of course it’d be like this. But, what now?

Lilia thought for a bit, and then she went into the room for nobles. There were already familiar faces of students who’d taken a seat, elegantly drinking black tea or whatnot. It was worlds apart from the room beside it. Lilia was also until just the other day coming here to have lunch, so she wasn’t about to say anything to the ones eating here.
Though, she just couldn’t bring up the will to eat here.

—Then it’s take out time!

—Teik aut?

—Mu, so this doesn’t get through huh… How about, you ask the person at the counter if it’s fine to eat outside? They can probably make something like sandwiches right? Since they can make such good food.

‘I see’, Lilia nodded. She quickly headed to the counter in the back and called out to the person standing there. When she asked if it was possible to have them prepare sandwiches, the person, while completely surprised with widened eyes, immediately nodded with ‘yes of course’.
When she sat down in a nearby seat while she waited, she saw the three followers from before. It seemed that they hadn’t noticed Lilia yet, as they quietly continued to eat their meal. As she wondered if they weren’t going to talk at all as they ate, she remembered that when they were eating together with her, they also wouldn’t break the silence unless Lilia started a conversation.

“Thank you for waiting.”

Lilia looked up upon hearing the voice from behind the counter. A middle aged man who looked like a chef was looking at Lilia with a smile. In his hand was a small basket. When she received it, she could feel a bit of the warmth from inside.

“I’ve worked here for a long time, but this is the first time I’ve gotten an order for a sandwich from this side.”

The man’s face looked quite happy as he said that. Though thinking it a bit strange, Lilia said her thanks and left the cafeteria. Even just holding it in her hands, a pleasant smell tickled her nose.

—Lilia! Let’s hurry and eat!

—Yeah…

She glanced around. The entrance also had a great number of students. Though it wasn’t impossible, it would be hard to have a peaceful meal here. Thinking a bit, Lilia decided to move someplace else.

“I’m coming in.”

As Lilia said so and entered,

“Bufu! Geho…!”

Perhaps from the shock, Ray choked at the same time. He stared fixedly at Lilia in a dumbfounded state. In front of him was a small wooden lunchbox.

“You surprised me… Miss Lilia, what’s the matter?” he tilted his head as he inquired.

Without answering, Lilia put the basket in her hand onto the table. She headed for the stack of chairs to retrieve one for herself.

“Here you are.”

Before she knew it, Ray had taken a chair and placed it for her. Such quick movements, thought Lilia as she thanked him and sat down in that chair.

“I don’t really have any particular business. I was just looking for a place where I can eat my lunch peacefully, and came here. Since we’re both here, shall we have lunch together?”

“With myself? Yes, with pleasure.”

Ray seemed overjoyed as he showed a full faced smile. Seeing his carefree smile, the corners of Lilia’s mouth also naturally lifted up.

After Lilia took out the white cloth from the basket, she put it to the side. Looking inside, it was packed pull of sandwiches. Uu, Lilia unintentionally let out a groan and knit her eyebrows. Did they think that she was ordering for multiple people?

Lilia offered a simple prayer, then brought a sandwich to her mouth. Carefully tasting it,

—Ohh, delicious… What is this, Lilia eat more hurry hurry!

—Annoying…

It seemed that Sakura had really taken to the sandwiches, as she urged Lilia to keep eating.

Grinning wryly as she continued her meal, when Sakura started to hum out a tune in her cheer, a smile spilled out from Lilia. And then when she looked up, her eyes met with Ray who was staring at her with a blank expression.

“What?”

When Lilia asked, Ray flusteredly shook his head.

“No, well… I was just thinking how you really seemed to be enjoying your meal…”

“Sorry for being a bother,” said Ray as he went to lower his head.

When Lilia took a sandwich from the pile and offered it to him, Ray tilted his head, so Lilia said, “For you.”

“Eh, umm… Is it really alright…?”

“I wouldn’t be able to finish all this just by myself. No need to hold back, so eat up.”

“Well then,” said as he Ray took it, and quickly brought it to his mouth. He opened his eyes wide, and a mutter of ‘it’s delicious’ leaked out.

“There’s plenty more where that came from, so please eat as you wish.”

Saying so, Lilia moved the basket to the center of the table. Ray also seemed to have stopped restraining himself and immediately reached out for his second one. Seeing Ray’s smile as he continued to eat, it was somehow quite calming.

—Wow this kid’s so calming, but more importantly these sandwiches are awesome! Lilia more!

—Yes yes… Then this one with the green peppers…

—Eh… I-if Lilia wants to eat it, I’ll, bear, with, it…?

—I’m joking. Don’t seriously cry alright…

As soon as she mentioned eating green peppers, Sakura’s voice started trembling. Like with what happened yesterday, why did she hate them so much? She started becoming curious about Sakura’s past from this really unusual point.

 

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Sakura

Lilia

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Here’s another chapter. Let’s all be optimistically pessimistic about how many chapters will come out before I disappear off the face of the planet again.
Enjoy~

 

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Take back? Who will? Take whose heart?

Lilia’s smiling mask came falling off. Eyes glazing over, she became unable to hide her displeasure. The other two girls noticed and their expressions immediately paled, but the one talking didn’t notice at all.

“Let us go immediately switch back the seats with Miss Krystel. It is alright, although we are weak, please let us also assist you. Please rest assured Miss Lilianne…”

“Silence.”

It was in a small, and low voice. It was at a level just for the one person in front of her to be able to hear. The talking girl let out a short shriek, and halted her words. Incidentally, silence fell through the classroom as well. However, Lilia paid that absolutely zero mind, and released her words.

“I will say this once again but… From now on, I have no intention of involving myself with His Highness. I would bid you to not do anything unnecessary due to your own misguided interpretations. Or is it that, you actually wish to anger me?”

The three all vigorously shook their heads. They were shaking almost pitifully, but Lilia did not notice. Even if she did, she did not intend to stop.

“Well then please do close that noisy mouth. Is that alright?”

The three shook their heads up and down again and again. Seeing that, Lilia, with a ‘very good’, nodded satisfied.

—Scary. You’re scary, Lilia.

—What is. I spoke with politeness right?

—Certainly your words themselves were! Those eyes are scary! Like I was feeling bloodthirst there!

—Isn’t that just your imagination.

With a small sigh, she looked up. The three were still standing before Lilia. They had their heads hanging down apologetically, but it seems they didn’t intend to leave. When Lilia frowned dubiously, the one who was talking until just earlier deeply lowered her head.

“Miss Lilianne. I am truly sorry.”

“It’s fine. Please be careful next time.”

“Yes…”

After that she raised her head, finally leaving to head to her own seat. As Lilia was looking at her departing figure, Sakura’s voice sounded in her head.

—Lilia. About those three. Well actually not just those three.

—What about it.

—Well, right. About those lot of followers. You should be careful.

Lilia frowns, as Sakura continues.

—Those people are ones who are after the ducal’s power. It’s no good becoming friends with them. No well, there are good people too. Make friends with the ones who will properly look at ‘Lilia’ rather than your status.

She was wondering what Sakura was trying to say all of a sudden, but it seems it was her trying to look out for Lilia. Lilia made a wry smile inside, and nodded that she understood.

—Just that honestly I don’t have much confidence in seeing through people… Do you know of anything Sakura?

—Nn… My knowledge regarding the followers is also somewhat vague. It’d be better to rely on someone else.

—Rely on who then.

—The person above your room.

Lilia’s face twitched slightly. She hadn’t heard anything about that. Who, and for what reason they’d be there. As Lilia gulped down her saliva, as if it was no big deal at all, Sakura said,

—It seemed to be someone who was at your estate so, isn’t it someone who your father or brother stuck there as a guard? They were really good at hiding their presence, so it’s probably someone who can also do intelligence work.

—… Ahh, that so…

So it was her family’s doing. Those two don’t really have a need to keep it from Lilia, so why didn’t they say anything about it? Pressing her temples and fighting back a headache, Lilia made another sigh.

—Got it. Let’s make a request when we get back.

—Yep. There should be three people so it’s probably fine if one of them shows themselves.

So there were three whole people. This time Lilia ended up truly holding her head in exasperation.

Just before the time for the morning assembly, the prince entered the classroom. And immediately after that the teacher came in. You’d think that they were arriving together, but the prince would always insist that it was just a coincidence. Though it was questionable whether such a coincidence would happen every day.
The prince’s reason for arriving right before the morning assembly was simple, it was an anti-Lilia counter. If he comes earlier, then dealing with Lilia trying to talk to him would be troublesome, so it seems he’s trying to avoid that. Lilia had felt a bit down about this when she heard it from Sakura. Since he kept to it today as well, it seems he hadn’t really believed what Lilia said the other day.

The teacher stood before the podium, and started relaying some announcements. However, Lilia didn’t listen to a single bit of it. Inside her head, Sakura’s lectures that she deemed as time-killers continued.
Today’s Sakura’s lecture was on something called ‘science’. It was quite interesting to hear the explanations of reasons for various things that were just thought of as ‘natural’ before. She realised with a start that the teacher’s speech had ended, and at some point, the lesson had begun.

—Ah, sorry. It’s class time huh. Well I’m gonna be quiet now, good luck with the lesson.

—Even though it was really getting into the good parts… Oh well.

Maybe she’d hear the continuation tonight? While feeling a bit reluctant, she turned her gaze to the teacher. The first lesson was arithmetic. Listening to the teacher’s explanation for a while, Lilia knit her eyebrows.
What’s with this, she thought. Even though there’ve been two weeks of lessons, they were still doing these problems? At the exceedingly boring explanations, Lilia sighed deep inside.

—Sakura. I’m not really confident that I’ll be able to stay awake.

—Nn… Shall we, continue?

Sakura probably had a similar feeling, as she didn’t disparage Lilia’s uttering. ‘So you get it,’ Lilia said as she formed a smile and gave a small nod.
For a while after, the teacher’s one-sided ramblings, the explanations continued. Occasionally someone would be called upon, but fortunately it never came to Lilia.
And so the next thing she knew, it was noon. Between lessons there would be a change in teachers, but Lilia didn’t notice a single thing. When the surroundings got noisy and she looked around with a start, everyone was heading to leave the classroom. From that and her depleted stomach, she guessed that it was now lunchtime. Just listening to Sakura, the whole morning ended up going by.

“Miss Lilianne! Perhaps we may go together!”

The three followers from this morning gathered around Lilia, inviting her. Lilia looked at them with suspicion, and shook her head. She said to the surprised trio,

“I’m sorry. I feel like being alone today. It’s a unfortunate, but I’m good so you three go on ahead.”

Saying that, the three came to an understanding with ‘that is so isn’t it’ and left the classroom. How and what they were understanding were unknown, but it was convenient to be able to be alone so this was fine.

—Sakura. I’m curious about one thing.

—Yup. What might that be?

—I… That is… I wonder if it would be a problem if I, went to that cafeteria…?

 

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Sakura
Lilia

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

So uh, I actually had about 3 chapters sitting in drive for a few weeks. I was planning to save like seven and have a release week or something, but that clearly wasn’t happening so I’m just gonna post what I have for now…
At this rate I’ll have the series done in just twenty more years!
(Please don’t kill me)

 

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The senior section separates classes into their respective years, but there is also a class containing students from various levels. This was the class Lilia is a part of, a class for upper nobles. The school equipment and furnishings were the same for even commoners, and it was only the class that is segregated from the rest. Since there would be no end to trouble if they were to be put with everyone else.
Entering the classroom, Lilia went straight to her seat. The seats were spaced in six columns and five rows. Lilia’s seat was front row. Probably because it was so early, there were only a few people. Unapproached by anyone, she managed to sit down at her desk.

—Lilia. You gonna be okay?

—What is it?

—Well… the seat beside you.

Having it pointed out by Sakura, Lilia remembered something she had forgotten about until now. Looking at the seat to her right. The Prince’s seat.

—Definitely not alright.
—Ain’t that the truth. What’re you gonna do?
—Yeah, let’s see…

There’s no helping that the Prince was in the same class. That was just how school was, so she could make do. But having an adjacent seat was a different story. Lilia shot up from her seat, and turned her gaze towards the window.
Three students were having a friendly chat. They were all people Lilia recognised, but the red haired character in the middle was especially familiar.
Krystel Agnis. The eldest daughter of the Marquis Agnis, she was referred to as Kris. It couldn’t be said that she particularly got along with Lilia. Rather, you could even say that they were enemies, but at the moment she was the lesser of two evils. Lilia quietly walked towards Kris.

“Oh?”

Kris soon noticed as well. Floating a mean-spirited smile, she gazed at Lilia. Lilia hated this smile.

“Morning, Kris. A bit of your time?”

“My my, good morning, Miss Lilianne. What may I help you with?”

Her speech was polite, but the ridicule hanging on to every word was thoroughly conveyed. Absolutely unpleasant.

“I’d just like to ask for a small favour.”

“A favour is it? If it is something within my capabilities, by all means. In the Duke’s name, do bestow upon myself your commands.”

It was a thoroughly irritating way of speaking. But if she rose up to her provocation, the conversation will never get anywhere. Lilia ignored all the goading and continued to speak.

“Our seats, would you be willing to switch with me?”

Kris’s eyes went wide with surprise. That was to be expected, as Lilia’s seat, the seat beside the prince, was something Lilia had half threatened her way into obtaining. Everyone, the prince included, knew about this.

“I had heard that something happened between you and His Highness but… Seriously?”

In her astonishment Kris’s speech returned to her normal tone. Lilia nodded.

“That’s right. If nothing else I definitely don’t want to have the adjacent seat. You had said that you’d wanted to be beside His Highness before so, it’s not a bad deal is it?”

“That, it is not but… What are you scheming?”

She glared at Lilia with open hostility. Lilia shrugged, signalling ‘nothing at all’, and responded.

“You see, I’m already through with His Highness.”

“That so… Then even if you want switch back later, it ain’t happening alright?”

“I won’t. I will swear so on the Aldis name.”

Even so, Kris looked at Lilia with suspicion, but quickly turned it into a broad smile. She quickly gathered the belongings on her desk. What’s more just for the occasion, albeit simple, she even gave it a quick cleaning.

“Well then, here you are Mistress Lilianne. From now on this seat is yours.”

“Th-thanks… I didn’t think you’d go that far. I haven’t cleaned mine at all though…”

“I don’t mind. Well then I’ll be off. Ufufu…”

Leaving behind her followers, she headed towards the place that used to be Lilia’s seat. After that, the two followers hurriedly went after her. Somewhat understanding what Kris must be feeling, Lilia made a bitter smile, and sat down in the vacated seat.

—With this I can rest easy. Ahh, but if possible I’d like to be further back…

—Quite rare for the attention seeker Lilia huh.

—That was only because I wanted to attract the attention of his highness. Now though, I don’t really care anymore.

After a little while, the rest of the students had arrived. Negotiating with the student in the seat behind her, she exchanged seats with them. That was repeated three times, and Lilia finally acquired the window seat in the last row. If it’s here, she shouldn’t stand out.

—That was some good negotiating if I do say so myself.

—No, here’s the thing Lilia. That was because you were basically coercing them you know. Lilia’s requests, to most people, would be taken as an order. I’ll overlook it for today, but please try to restrain yourself in the future.

—I was just trying to normally ask for a favour though… I understand….

She had really just been trying to ask for a normal favour, but it seems like the other parties felt like they were being commanded. It’s no wonder that all of them had fear in their eyes. It was the first time she ended up feeling that the Aldis name was a hinderance.

Sitting in her chair, as she took a breath,

“Miss Lilianne!”

A familiar voice reached her ears. Lilia’s expression stiffened slightly. Following the voice, three female students came into the classroom. They were walking straight towards Lilia.

“Miss Lilianne, so you had already arrived. We were very worried!”

One of the three said, and the other two nodded repeatedly.

“Sorry. I’m alright now.”

“Ahh, that’s great! What a relief. By the way… Why might you be sitting in the corner of the class like this? Don’t tell me, Miss Krystel has…?”

The girls’ eyes narrowed. Seeing that, Lilia openly heaved a sigh. Lilia also understood the feelings of the girls very well, but the current her who wanted to stay out of anything troublesome felt a slight annoyance at this. The three who noticed Lilia’s sigh were visibly flustered.

“Uh, umm… Miss Lilianne…?”

“It’s nothing. It was I who desired this seat. You must have heard about the rumours between me and His Highness?”

“Well, yes… They seemed like baseless rumours so I hadn’t paid them any mind though.”

“They’re the truth. From now on, I will do my utmost to avoid being involved with His Highness so please also act accordingly.”

The three’s eyes widened in astonishment together. That was probably to be expected, though. The Lilia before she shut herself away would try to be by the prince as much as possible after all. It wouldn’t be strange if they said that they couldn’t believe it.

“Miss Lilianne!”

The girl who was speaking raised a loud voice. Lilia reflexively raised her guard at the suddenness of it.

“What?”

“Please don’t feel down! If it’s Miss Lilianne then you can definitely take back His Highness’s heart!”

 

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Author’s End Note:
I wrote a lot today, yo-! I made full use of my breaktime at work after all!
I was really happy to receive your impressions so I put in a bit of effort.

Enter Ms. Rival. Aaand exit. Just kidding.

Sakura
Lilia

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

For those that haven’t read the last chapter (I forgot to tag it in the Haunted category when I posted) you can find it here. Enjoy Chapter 21!

(Also I feel the real April Fool’s joke here is that I’m actually releasing content, two whole chapters too, go figure)

 

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—Hey, what’s wrong with you. You okay?

—Ahh, Lilia… I’m already done for…

—Eh, hey wait… What’s wrong?

Hearing that truly strained voice made Lilia’s expression pale. She had never before heard such a meek voice from Sakura. She waited anxiously for Sakura’s response.

—Green peppers, bitter…

She lowered her gaze and looked at the fried vegetables. There were green peppers in it.

—Just, with this…? I didn’t really taste much of the green peppers though…

—You did taste it… Lilia you meanie…

Hearing that usually energetic voice continue to sink, it made Lilia worry as well. While feeling sorry, she apologised in her head.

“Lilia, what’s wrong?”

It was Tina’s voice. Not knowing how she should answer, Lilia ended up shutting her mouth. Even so the worry in Tina’s eyes didn’t go away, and Lilia gave a small sigh.

“I’m sorry, Tina. I just remembered some urgent business, so I must excuse myself here.”

She hadn’t even managed to eat half of her dinner yet. In fact, her appetite was still unsatisfied, but she couldn’t just keep going with Sakura in this state. Lilia rose from her seat and showed a smile to the dumbfounded Tina.

“I’ll say this now, but please rest assured that this isn’t because of anything you did. Well then, see you later.”

Lightly waving her hand, she departed. After exiting the dining hall, Lilia hurried to her room.

Lilia rushed into her bedroom and, upon returning to her room, pulled out a drawer from the table. In there was a small cloth bag. It was of simple make, but the material itself was high class. Lilia opened it and checked the contents. There was a sizable amount of copper and silver coins inside. With a small nod, she called out to Sakura.

—Sakura. Can you hear me?

—Nn… What is it?

There was a response, but it was still just as weak. She didn’t think a single piece of green pepper could have caused her to become like this.

—We’re going to head out now.

—That so…

—Is there anything you want to eat? Though we can’t go too far.

—Fruit!

The energetic voice rang in her head momentarily. How mercenary thought Lilia as she smiled wryly, leaving the room. She soon ran into Alisa.

“Mistress Lilia? It’s already late so, I think it best to hold off on going outside…”

“R-right… I understand.”

Her cheek stiffening, Lilia dejectedly returned to the room. That Sakura’s energy that she finally managed to restore all faded out again was also apparent.

—Uuu… There is no God or Buddha huh…

She didn’t understand the meaning, but the lamentation was clearly conveyed.

“By the way Mistress Lilia.”

Keeping the door open until now, Alisa opened her mouth. Dubiously turning around,

“It’s a visitor.”

Behind Alisa, there stood Tina.

“Tina? What’s wrong? What about dinner?”

It hadn’t been too long since she left from the dining hall. So why was Tina already here? Lilia wondered while waiting for her words, when Tina timidly presented the thing in her hands.
It was a small paper bag. Though thinking it strange, she approached Tina and received the bag. Looking inside, there was a mandarin like fruit.

“Umm… Dinner, didn’t seem to be to your tastes so… Please have some of this.”

And then she vigorously lowered her head in apology. Lilia was flabbergasted as she opened her mouth, it ending up lamely hung open.

“Well, I’ll be heading back to the dining hall then. See you later, Lilia.”

Saying so she made to leave the room. Lilia hurriedly called her for her back.

“Wait.”

“Eh…? What’s wrong? Ah, is it that you dislike fruits as well?”

“Of course not. Just… Today, there really was something unexpected that came up. If it’s alright with you, please do invite me again sometime?”

In fact, she felt that the dinner itself was quite tasty. If not for Sakura, she probably would have finished it all. As expected, the place would be somewhat difficult for Lilia to enter alone, so she wouldn’t think of going again without being invited by Tina.
Tina seemed to be blankly befuddled, but before long, an instant smile came to her face.

“Yup! I’ll invite you again sometime!”

And so, she waved her hand and left. Seeing her off, Lilia let out a sigh of relief as she closed the door.

—Lilia! Mandarins! I don’t know if they’re actually mandarins but! Mandarins! Let’s eat!

Instantly, Sakura’s voice rang out in her head. Lilia smiled wryly and held out the paper bag to Alisa.

“Sorry, but could you prepare a few of these?”

“Yes. Certainly.”

And so as she stuffed her cheeks with the fruit Alisa peeled,

—Ahh, it’s delicious, I’m in heaven…

—Oh you…

Slowly savouring the flavour, she smiled wryly. Somehow interpreting that smile, Alisa also beamed affectionately.

The next day. Going to the first floor entrance, Tina was there just like yesterday waiting for Lilia. However, perhaps minding the matter with The Prince from yesterday, she only exchanged her greetings.

—What’s with that girl. She waited for me just to say hi?

—What a good girl.

—What a waste of time.

—Lilia’s thinking never changes eh!

Sakura was lamenting over something again, but she probably didn’t need to pay it any mind. She briskly headed for the school building.
The school building was beside the dormitory. A three story stone building, it was made to be quite a large structure. Lilia’s classroom was on the second floor. She still kept her brisk pace walking through the hallways. There wasn’t actually any need to hurry that much, but it couldn’t be helped that she felt she was drawing the gazes of the students around her. This wasn’t just an overly self-conscious imagination either, as when she actually looked at the people she felt gazes from, they would hurriedly avert their gazes when she met their eyes.
The following act from The Prince’s engagement annulment was all the uproar from yesterday after all. It was obvious that she would gather a lot of attention. If only it had happened somewhere where there were less people, but it’s a bit too late for that now.

 

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(Author’s Note)
I’ve always been wanting to write that scene where she’d shriek from eating green peppers.
I’ve gone through my stock. It’ll be back to normal from tomorrow.

Sakura
Lilia

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Another long gap! But here’s another chapter! And another cliff! But I generally don’t leave cliffs alone! Or will I? Find out next time, on…
Real note though, if you enjoy this story please do consider supporting it on Novelupdates, I really appreciate any comments and reviews.

 

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There were two dining halls located in the first floor of the dorm. The first was built as a large hall, used by most of the students living in the dorm. The other one was a size smaller than the first, but it was for the exclusive use of the upper class nobles. According to the school regulations, on school premises, a person’s status was irrelevant. However looking at the students’ rooms and dining hall, it was clear that the upper class nobles were treated differently after all.

This was the first time entering the larger dining hall for Lilia. Because she normally used the other one, coming here in the first place was impossible. Since that was the case, it was probably natural that the entire room fell quiet when she came in.
Lilia slowly swept her gaze across, through the quieted dining hall. Anyone that met her gaze all flusteredly averted their eyes. Feeling some discomfort, she thought it might be best to give up and go back after all when,

“Lilia, what’s wrong? Come let’s go.”

Came Tina’s voice. Turning around, she met eyes with Tina who was looking at her with a smile. Not avoiding her gaze in the slightest, a cheerful smile.

“Yes, you’re right. Let’s go.”

The corners of Lilia’s mouth also ended up lifting up into a smile. The discomfort and such felt just earlier were cleanly erased and forgotten.
Countless long tables were lined up in the dining hall. Not paying any mind to the hushed atmosphere, Tina headed inside. Finding two seats together, she beckoned to call Lilia over.
Not giving notice to the quietness was probably a courtesy towards Lilia. Just when she was feeling somewhat grateful for that,

“You just sit tight here Lilia. I’ll go to order. Nevertheless, I wonder why it’s so quiet here today?”

Wrong. She actually just didn’t notice anything in the first place.

—Perhaps this girl, is somewhat of an airhead?

—I wonder about that huh.

“Lilia, I’m ordering for you too, so what would you like?”

“I’ll leave it to you. I’ll just have what you’re getting.”

“Got it. I’ll be right back!”

Saying that, Tina headed for the inner part of the dining hall where the counter was. Behind the counter was a crowd of cooking staff, where you ordered and received your food to bring back to your seat. The food in the dining hall was all free of charge and you could ask for more helpings as you please.
Sinking into her seat, Lilia slowly let out her breath. The surrounding students were finally starting to talk normally again. With the attention on her letting up, she could finally calm down.
Incidentally Alisa was not with them. Saying that she didn’t want to be a bother, it seems like the girl headed for the dining hall outside of campus.
Lilia casually looked around. At some point many of the seats in front and to her sides had been vacated. Lightly glancing around, there was a group holding their food trays quickly moving away. They had probably run away in fear of Lilia. She ended up feeling just a tinge of loneliness from that.

—Tina really is a good girl huh.

—Yeah… I won’t become like that though.

—Yeah no I’m definitely not looking for that. That sort of Lilia would be kinda gross.

—I’m really gonna get angry you know?

—Ahaha.

As she was chatting with Sakura in her mind, Tina returned carrying two trays. Placing one in front of Lilia, Tina sat down beside her. On the trays Tina brought over were two menu items, steaming warm white rice and fried vegetables with meat.

—No matter how you look at it isn’t this treatment a bit too unwelcoming!

—I was under the impression that it was just a difference in rooms… So this is the kind of dinner they have over here.

The food wasn’t even brought to over for them. Looking at the students sitting a bit away from them, their food wasn’t too different from Lilia’s.

“What’s wrong, Lilia?”

At Tina’s question, Lilia hurriedly shook her head. Putting on a smile, she replied that it was nothing.

After offering their thanks for the meal, Lilia’s movements came to a halt. She was lost as to how she was supposed to eat the meal. In the first place, there was no knife and fork. What were these two strange sticks for?

“Ah, perhaps Lilia, you’ve never used chopsticks before?”

“Ahh… That is true. I’ve not.”

“I see… I probably should have asked for something else. What to do…”

“Tina. Let me see how you use it. I’ll learn from watching.”

“Eh…”

Tina looked lost for a moment, but quickly regained her focus and nodded. She held the things called chopsticks for Lilia to see. With an unfamiliar holding method, the chopsticks moved with the movement of Tina’s fingers and actually picked up a piece of the fried vegetables for Lilia to see.
Nodding in understanding, Lilia tried to imitate Tina’s movements. Perhaps due to this being her first time it was quite difficult, but after moving the sticks repeatedly she managed to get the hang of it. Just like Tina, she picked up a piece of the fried vegetables and brought it to her mouth.

“Yeah. It’s not bad.”

Lilia nodded in satisfaction, while beside her Tina really seemed befuddled this time.

“What’s wrong?”

“Ah, umm… Lilia, you seem to be really clever or… Even though it took me quite a while to be able to properly use chopsticks…”

“Is that so… This thing…”

Moving the chopsticks around, Lilia muttered disinterestedly. She quickly returned to eating.

—Somehow, Lilia you really seem to be a bundle of talent or something… Quite impressive. Maybe it’s because of your good memory?

—My, nothing will come of your flattery though.

—The personality is horrible though.

—……

Lilia’s face twitched at the layering of sarcasm in their conversation. Remembering that there were gazes from the surroundings on her, she quickly hid her expression. She forcibly covered it with a smile.

“How is it, Lilia? The food over here.”

“Well… It really is food for commoners, but it’s not bad.”

She didn’t think that simply frying random vegetables and meat together could make something taste as good as this. It was probably also due to the fact that she wasn’t too familiar with eating such things, but the freshness of the experience was quite delicious. It might be good to come again at the next opportunity, she thought as she carried the vegetables to her mouth,

—Migyaaah!

“Waaah!”

Sakura’s shriek made Lilia give a loud shout that surprised even herself. Tina stopped moving as she stared at Lilia with her eyes dotted in surprise, and their surroundings were also examining Lilia’s expression wondering what had happened. When Lilia calmed down, driving away the surrounding gazes,

“It’s nothing at all, ohohoho.”

Even she felt that line unnatural, but now wasn’t the time to be worrying about that. Lilia called out to Sakura.

 

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(Author’s Note)
From the time I created that setting, I’ve been wanting to write this scene the entire time.
…It ended up being cut off though.

Sakura
Lilia

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