Chapter 19. Enjoy!

 

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From the Library she headed straight back to the dorm. She sensed some inquisitive gazes from the students she passed along the way, but she ignored them all. If they came to talk to her, she would give a reply, but she had no obligation to respond to simply being looked at. When she entered her room in the dorm, she was greeted by Alisa’s bow.

“Welcome back, Mistress Lilia.”

“I’m back. …Were you in this room the entire time?”

“Yes. That is so?”

“It would’ve been fine to go out somewhere too you know.”

“I had not received permission so…”

Quite the inflexible one, thought Lilia with a slight frown, when Sakura gave a wry laugh.

—It’s the first day back after all. She probably stayed in the room to be ready so that you could return at any time right. Well, it’s also true that she didn’t receive any permission, but even if she did, she probably would have stayed here the whole day anyways.

—Am I really that unreliable?

—Yup. After two weeks of being a shut-in, you can’t really refute that can you.

—Muu…

Since she thought that it was just as Sakura said, she couldn’t rebut. She already had a precedent for becoming a shut-in, so Alisa was bound to be worried.

—Besides, you actually did skip out on class too huh!

—That was… No, you’re right.

—Yaaai, you delinquent~

—Oh shut up.

She returned her gaze to Alisa. Alisa was worriedly looking at Lilia.

“Alisa. I’ll be fine. You can feel free to go out from tomorrow on okay.”

“Is, that so?”

“Yes. Well then, I’ll be studying in the bedroom. Could you call me if there’s anything?”

“Certainly.”

Sent off with a bow by Alisa, Lilia entered the bedroom. Closing the door, she headed for the table at the corner of the room. The bookshelf beside the table was probably organised by Alisa, as the learning materials were neatly arranged by subject.

—Sakura. I’ll be counting on you today as well.

—Alri~ght. Get out the pap~er, get out the pe~n, let’s give it our a~ll!

Lilia did as instructed and placed paper and a pen on the table, and while hearing Sakura’s energetic voice, a slight smile leaked out on on her face.

She was putting down Sakura’s words on the paper. What she was being taught, currently, was arithmetic. Within arithmetic there was something called an abacus, and listening to random numbers from Sakura, Lilia was calculating the sums in her head. Since they couldn’t prepare the tool Sakura talked about, all of the calculation was done with a mental image instead.

—Lilia. Someone’s here.

Lilia lifted her head upon hearing Sakura’s words. Turning over the paper with various numbers written on it, she turned towards the door. A knock immediately followed.

“Mistress Lilia. There is a visitor.”

Lilia frowned in doubt. There shouldn’t have been anyone in the school who’d come to visit her. Previously she did have some ‘followers’ of sorts around, but since coming back, there hadn’t been any sign of them either.

“Who?”

“It’s Mistress Tina.”

Lilia eyes widened in surprise. They had just met in the morning after all, so she hadn’t expected her to come visit already. What purpose could she possibly have come for?

—No you see Lilia, you can’t be wondering about purpose and stuff. You’re friends right?

—What are you talking about, this is the upper class nobles’ floor after all, it’s not a place you can come to just for the reason of ‘vising a friend’ you know.

—No, but… Huh? Did Lilia just make more sense than me!? Oh the disgrace!

—Hey what are you trying to imply here.

While feeling somewhat dissatisfied from Sakura’s remark, Lilia stood from her seat. She went with Alisa to the door of the room. Opening the door, there stood a nervous looking Tina.

“Mistr… Lilia. Good evening.”

Still having trouble with the honorifics, thought Lilia, though she decided to not say anything since at least she caught herself midway this time.

“Good evening, Tina. Is there some matter?”

“It can’t really be called a matter but… If you’d like, want to have dinner, together?”

“That’s… I don’t mind, but is that okay for you?”

“Yup. Of course. I shouldn’t need anyone’s permission to have dinner with a friend right?”

One way or another, she was starting to see the reason why the Prince came to like this girl. Getting along with someone from the prideful noble bunch in the first place was impossible, but even if that wasn’t the case, this girl was probably very easy to get along with regardless.

“Alright. Shall we go? Ah but that was just secondary right? The real topic is?”

“Eh? Real topic? What?”

Seeing Tina adorably tilt her head slightly to the side in confusion, Lilia cheeks twitched. She was aware of Alisa smiling wryly behind her. For some reason she felt a little embarrassed, and her cheeks became tinted slightly red.

—Fu. So what I said was correct after all. My win.

—Ha?

—Wai-that’s scary Lilia! I was just kidding!

Lilia clicked her tongue with a ‘tsk’ in her thoughts, and ‘hii-‘, Sakura let out a frightened voice. Leaving that Sakura alone, Lilia affixed a smile to her face.

“Sorry, please don’t worry about it. Shall we go?”

Tina let out a sigh of relief and nodded ‘yes’.

 

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Sakura
Lilia

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Not much to say. Life still hellish busy. Guess I’m finding some motivation to translate now from a rekindled interesting in reading novels. As author said in the previous chapter’s note, the story will be quite relaxed for a while. So, story might get a bit slow for some, but please hang in there, it’s definitely worth reading all of it! (If I’ll ever finish translating)
Enjoy chapter 18

 

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Saying so, Lilia made to walk past the boy. However, before she passed by him, the boy held out something to her. Seeing the thing, it turned out to be a small handkerchief.

“What?”

“Well… It seemed like you had been crying so… If you’d like, please use it.”

Here not only Lilia, but Sakura as well was surprised. Wondering if he somehow, actually didn’t know anything about Lilia.

“You… Really don’t know who I am?”

Asking him directly, the boy only tilted his head in response.

“Have we perhaps met somewhere before?”

Hearing that, Lilia was momentarily dumbfounded, and then a smile involuntarily leaked out on her face.
Thinking for a moment, she said,

“I’m Lilia. It’s nice to meet you.”

“Ah, umm… Ray, here.”

It seemed like he had noticed that Lilia was leaving out her family name for some reason, so Ray too didn’t attach his surname.

“Ray huh. I’ll make sure to remember. Well then I’ll be… What is it?”

As she was heading for the exit, Lilia’s feet quickly came to a halt. Lilia’s sleeve was gently being held onto by Ray. When Lilia tilted her head, Ray said with upturned eyes,

“That is… Would you like to talk for just a little bit? Being by myself is sort of lonely…”

Then just return to your own class, thought Lilia, but even she probably wouldn’t just say such a thing out loud.

Lilia herself wasn’t really in the condition to return to class, so it wouldn’t be bad to keep him company. Lilia concluded so and nodded with an ‘Alright’.

Though it was her first time entering the room, she had heard about this place before. Prepared for purposes like collaborative research and for people who wanted to study by themselves, ten of these rooms were lined up in a hallway connected from the library. To use these rooms one would have to request it beforehand, but starting last year, she had heard something about how one room was continuously in use by someone. That was probably referring to this room.
On the table reference texts and books on various things were arranged. Ray put the book he brought back on a corner of the table and retrieved a single chair from a stack and placed it before Lilia.

“Here you go.”

“Thanks.”

Thanking him she sat down. Ray sat down facing Lilia there.

—Seems like this is where he really studies huh.

With Sakura’s voice, Lilia brought her gaze to the learning materials arranged on the table. They were the same things as what she had been using a year ago. It seems that he was only one year younger than Lilia. As she stretched out to reach for the reference book, Ray flusteredly said,

“S-sorry, it hasn’t been tidied…! I’ll get to it immediately!”

“It’s fine, no worries. So you study by yourself here?”

“Yes… That’s right.”

Ray slumped back down as he answered. As Lilia was flipping through the reference book, she stealthily sent her gaze to the paper in front of Ray. The notebook there was opened, and questions full of blank answers were written inside.

“So there are parts you don’t get here?”

Eh, Ray let out an idiotic voice, and quickly noticing that the notebook he left lying open had been seen, he frantically began to clean it up.

“Sorry I’m so sorry! I’ve shown you such an unsightly…!”

“It’s quite alright. Rather, how’s the studying?”

“Uhmm… Yes, there are some parts that I don’t really understand…”

“Please show me.”

And so, the notebook that Ray was going to tidy up was quite naturally plundered by Lilia. Looking inside, she began to confirm the places left blank. With an I see, Lilia quickly closed the notebook.

“I’ll teach you.”

“Eh?”

“It’ll probably serve to kill some time. I will teach you. Please open your reference book.”

Returning the notebook with those words, Ray was speechless as his mouth hung open. Lilia felt just a slight bit irritated at the state Ray was in and tapped the table with her finger.

“Quickly please.”

“Ye, yes!”

Ray hurriedly opened the reference book. Lilia moved beside Ray, looked at the questions, and thus began to explain.

—Un. The heck is this.

No one gave an answer to Sakura’s muttering.

“Let’s leave it at this for today.”

When Lilia said so and closed the reference book, Ray let out a sigh of relief. Seeing that Lilia narrowed her eyes, and as she was about to open her mouth,

—This is your fault, forcing him to study six hours straight without any breaks though? You shouldn’t be getting angry alright?

—Ahhh… So that much time has already passed huh.

—Yup. As expected it was pretty tough on poor Ray. …It seemed like you were having fun so I didn’t say anything though.

Just like Sakura said, Lilia felt some enjoyment from it. Especially since Ray’s memory was good, he’d remember something after only being taught once. In that regard, teaching was quite enjoyable. Just, seeing Ray fallen limp from exhaustion, she couldn’t help but reflect a little at having somewhat overdone it.

“Sorry about that, Ray.”

At Lilia’s words, Ray vigorously raised his head.

“No no! Your lesson was very easy to understand! Thank you very much!”

And so he bowed his head with great vigour. Lilia only replied with a curt ‘I see’, but the corners of her mouth couldn’t help as they naturally turned upwards.

—Ahaha. Lilia, you seem happy.

—As if.

“Well then, it’s about time, I’ll be going now.”

“Yes. Thank you very much for today.”

Leaving Ray, who bowed his head once more, Lilia quietly exited the room.
In the Library, there was still barely any sign of other people. It seemed like classes had ended quite some time ago. To not leave Alisa worrying, she made to return straight back and headed for the exit.

“Miss Lilia!”

Stopped midway, Lilia halted her feet. Turning around, there stood Ray.

“What’s the matter?”

“Umm… If you have the time, it would be great if you could perhaps come again?”

Lilia slightly widened her eyes. She thought about what Ray’s intentions might be, but nothing came to mind. What could possibly be the reason that this boy was saying such a thing?

—Lilia, sometimes, can be quite dumb.

—Ha? You picking a fight?

—Not at all. It’s just, yeah. Never mind.

The presence of Sakura’s wry smile was transmitted. Not understanding what she meant, Lilia only tilted her head.

“Alright. If I feel like it, I’ll come again.”

Not knowing his intentions, she couldn’t make a promise. Not having a reason to refuse either she answered so, but,

“Yes! I will be waiting!”

Ray had a very delighted smile.

 

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(Author’s Note)
(The chapter) Ended up concluding in the library…

Sakura
Lilia

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Uwahh I had intended to follow my own uniform guidelines of translating all pronouns, sounds and honourifics, but then a wild Senpai comes in, and all my efforts are thrown out the window… I can only facepalm and curse why I hadn’t expected this from the start.

That aside, I just realised that I’m actually doing all this releasing during Lunar New Year. Heh, I guess if it’s Este’s thing is to bring new chapters as presents on Christmas, my chapters will arrive as your “New Year’s Money”, for those that know what that is. Happy Lunar New year, and here’s to a better one than the last. Enjoy!

 

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—Lilia. Calmed down?

Hearing Sakura’s voice, Lilia lifted her face. Just how much time had passed since she came in here? At the very least, classes should have already began by this point. She really should have been rushing over, but Lilia only felt around her eyes and sighed.

—I’ve calmed down. Though, I can’t really go to class.

—They’re bright red huh, swollen too. Quite a pitiful face after having said all that to the Prince.

—Oh be quiet, I’m fully aware.

Getting to her feet, she lightly brushed the dirt from her clothes. Gently peeking out from the doors she examined the surroundings. She could faintly hear the sounds of conversation, but at least it seemed that there was no one immediately nearby. It would be easy to return to her room back at the dorm, but doing so now would probably cause Alisa to worry.

—We’re just wasting time, so how about we go study at the Library or something?

—You’re right… Let’s do that.

Quietly leaving the classroom, Lilia maintained vigilance towards her surroundings as she began to move. Though it wasn’t as if she would be dragged back to class if someone reported her truancy, she certainly didn’t want anyone to witness her cried out face here. It wasn’t something she wanted to find people discussing about later on.
Maybe due to most of the students being in class right now, she managed to arrive at the library on the second floor without running into anyone. Quietly opening the door, she slid herself inside. Immediately shutting it once in, she breathed a long sigh of relief.

The library in this academy was quite large. Naturally, due to the large number of bookshelves lined up, it’d be hard to be seen by someone if one went deep inside. Especially now in the middle of lessons, one probably wouldn’t be found by any students. Though there should definitely be a teacher here, around this time they would be running around organising the bookshelves. Since the often used books are generally gathered near the front, the back had mostly become a blind spot devoid of people.
Lilia went deep into the library. As she reached to the farthest reaches back, she took a breath. Looking at the shelves around her, placed here were a great number of books about this country’s history. If it’s here, there definitely shouldn’t be anyone coming around.

—Well then, there’s no pen or paper, but it’s study time! I wonder what I should teach.

When Sakura taught Lilia, her voice would always be full of vigour. While a joyous voice, she was also quite strict. Though there were hardships too, just hearing Sakura’s joyful tone, Lilia could feel the motivation to work even a little harder. Whenever Lilia got one of the difficult questions prepared by Sakura correct, she would become overjoyed as if it were her own success leading Lilia to the point where she was the one to start feeling embarrassed.
This time too she was happily thinking away, but Lilia interrupted that.

—Sakura, before that, I’d like to get your opinion on something though.

—Nn? What would that be?

—From now on… I wonder how should I be facing Tina.

Ahh, Sakura groaned and fell silent. She was probably thinking up something regarding that. Lilia also tried to give it another thought, but still didn’t know what kind of face she should have the next time she sees Tina.
It can be assumed that the Prince likes Tina, as well as that Tina also did not particularly dislike the Prince. Tina hasn’t exactly said that she liked the Prince, but it was probably alright to think that way. At least if she didn’t think like this, she’d be losing all face in such a situation.
Lilia had completely broken off everything with the Prince. Lilia was the one rejecting here, so any reconciliation was almost certainly impossible. Tina, who had become her friend, was thrust right in the middle between Lilia and the Prince. She ended up feeling quite bad about creating such a situation.

—Worried about Tina?

At Sakura’s question, Lilia snorted.

—This has nothing to do with that girl okay. I just don’t want to feel responsible for getting someone caught in the crossfire here.

—Yup. Let’s just leave it at that then.

—What do you mean by that…

—Ahaha. Back to the real topic, it’s probably fine to not worry about that too much though. Tina will probably, to not have you two bump heads, act with a certain degree of caution in mind, that’s what I think. The Prince will most likely also avoid touching on the topic of you, so as long as you don’t stir things up, I don’t think there’s any reason to worry.

Would it be as simple as that? Lilia still didn’t really know what Tina’s temperament was like, so she couldn’t come to a solid conclusion.

—Rather, I think if you were to keep your distance, it’ll just cause Tina to mind things more. Wouldn’t it be fine to just act as usual?

—Though that would be kind of difficult.

—Yup. Do your best!

—Talking like it’s none of your business…

Though she was smiling wryly, she did not object. Lilia couldn’t come up with any other answers herself after all.

—Well, with that, now it’s studying!

Just as Sakura was exclaiming now—

“Oh…? Whom might be present here?”

—that voice was heard at the same time.

“…!”

With a gulp, Lilia slowly turned around. There stood a boy she didn’t recognise. It was boy with short silver hair, and by the school uniform he was wearing, it could be seen that he was student here. Although she had no recollection of him, it was probably not so for the boy. There was hardly anyone in this academy that did not know about Lilia.
That was what she thought but.

“Umm, Senpai, is it? Is it fine to not be in class?”

It seemed that he didn’t recognise her, but whether he really didn’t know or was just acting so, Lilia couldn’t
determine.

—Sakura. Do you know about this kid?

—Sorry, no idea. Though he doesn’t seem like a bad guy…

—That so…

In that case, let’s see how this turns out for a bit. Lilia decided so and fixed a smile to her face.

“I had something to look up so I’m here for that. What about you?”

—Such convincing innocence! It’s innocent Lilia!

—Be quiet you.

Presenting a retort to Sakura who shouted in her head, she sought for a response from the boy. The boy quickly answered.

“Well… I am studying here. I don’t really fit in with the class… Fortunately, my grades on exams are not too bad, so they’re leaving me be.”

—Eh, is that really okay?

—It is indeed. As long as you can get results on the exams, they’ll allow it even if you’re absent from lessons. If not for that, I wouldn’t be leaving school for two whole weeks would I.

—Ahh, I see. Now that you mention it that is so.

However, thought Lilia. You can certainly study on your own, but that can’t be said to be very efficient. Even if you didn’t fit in with the class, she felt you ought to at least attend the lessons. When she voiced some of these doubts, the boy only smiled vaguely.

—Perhaps there are some circumstances, huh.

—What’ll you do?

—It’s not as if he was seeking me for help, so let’s just ignore it.

She just happened to run into the boy after all. She didn’t have any responsibility to go help him, and Lilia herself wasn’t someone who really had the leisure to do so anyways. Not in terms of time nor, more importantly, emotionally with what she was already dealing with.

“I won’t pry any deeper then. Well do your best.”

 

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(Author’s Note)
From here on a we’ll probably be continuing with a leisurely tone or what not.

Sakura
Lilia

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

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…

 

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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.

 

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

Sakura
Lilia

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<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.

 

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“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

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<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!

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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.

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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

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<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.

 

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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.

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Chapter 12. 13 coming soon™ (relatively).

 

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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.

—……

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<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Chapter 11. Enjoy!

 

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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!”

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<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~

 

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“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.

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