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

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

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

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

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

“It’s nothing… Go on…”

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

“However.”

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

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

“Ha…?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

—Really?

—Really. Please expect such things.

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

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

“That’s… You weren’t executed?”

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

—Really?

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

—Ahh…

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

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

“I did? How?”

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

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

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

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

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

—Lilia, you don’t remember?

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

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

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

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

—Is that how it is?

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

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

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

“Take good care of me, Alisa.”

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

Alisa bowed deeply, and Lilia nodded in satisfaction.

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

“Ummm… Mistress Lilia…”

“What is it?”

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

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

“Is there a problem with that?”

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

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

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

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

“Hey, Alisa.”

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

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

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

“Is that so…”

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

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

After muttering such, Lilia immediately said in self derision.

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

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

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

—Nothing will change even if you run away right?

—Oh shut up…

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

“Mistress Lilia. I…”

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

“You will be in the same room as me.”

“Eh…”

“My, is there a problem?”

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

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

—And who might that be.

—Really, I wonder?

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

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

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

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

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

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

—Yep, I’ll leave it to you.

Receiving Sakura’s acknowledgement, Lilia opened her mouth.

“Hey, Alisa. Is that really true?”

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

“Then, what about right now?”

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

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

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

“Eh? Yes, it will not reach but…”

“Then let’s have a frank discussion.”

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

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

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

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

“Is that… What you wish of me?”

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

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

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

“What?”

“Are you still aiming for His Highness?”

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

“I’m over it already.”

“Really?”

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

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

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

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

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

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Chapter 7. Also a shorter one. Enjoy!

“It seems that it was our misunderstanding huh.”

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

“What, is there something else?”

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

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

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

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

“Then regarding Lilia?”

“……”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Klaus. Is there someone available right now?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Then, please let me help with this!”

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

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

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

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

“Is it…no good?”

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

—You might as well just leave it to him.

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

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

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

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

“…!! Yes! Thank you very much!”

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

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

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

—Just do it okay.

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

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

“Yes! Please by all means!”

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

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

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

Sakura shouted as if sighing, and,

“Mistress Lilia…”

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

“…… I was joking.”

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

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

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

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Here’s another chapter. This one was somewhat shorter. Enjoy!

Such a lifestyle continued throughout the week. Lilia learned many things from Sakura. Naturally, not everything could be learned in just the span of a week. It was just that, staying absent from school for any longer would be bad. From now on, she would plan to continue her studies in the few moments she can spare in the morning and night before turning in.
Lilia got dressed in her school uniform for the first time in a while. It was a sailor uniform based in white.

—I’ve been wondering since before, but since when have these uniforms existed from?

“According to the history, these uniforms have been the tradition here for over a hundred years.”

—Hmmm… So that means there has probably been people other than me before huh…

Lilia frowned at Sakura’s words. She seemed to be implying that there have been existences similar to Sakura that have appeared in the past. In fact, it was impossible to completely deny that such beings have existed in the past before.
After all, Lilia couldn’t even confirm Sakura’s own existence.
After getting changed, Lilia headed off towards the dining room for breakfast.

In the dining room, the rest of the family had already gathered. They turned their gazes to Lilia as she entered, and seeing her in her uniform, their eyes widened in surprise. Feeling ever so slightly pleased at garnering such a reaction, Lilia took her seat at the table.

“Lilia. You’re going to school?”

The one who asked was her father. Lilia answered with a nod.

“Yes. I’ll be heading to the dorms today. I apologise for the worry I’ve caused.”

As Lilia said so lowering her head, her father’s mouth fell open, completely stupefied. While she was questioning in her mind if such a thing was really that unthinkably surprising, she noticed Sakura snickering away and her head flared up a little.

“But being so sudden the preparations for a coach to get there is…”

“Please rest assured. It would not do for me to trouble Father for such things, so I have already had them prepared. Though the ones who actually carried everything out were Alisa and the servants…”

“I–is that so… But at least giving a report would be… No, I suppose that’s fine but…”

Her father’s shoulders fell. All of his normal air of authority leaving his figure. While thinking what a strange sight it was, the food was laid out on the table and she didn’t give it any further thought.

“Well then, let’s dig in. Before that… Klaus! Put away those papers already!”

At her father’s exclamation, Klaus only gave a small shrug. Beside Lilia, though there was actually quite a distance between them, looking at her elder brother – he had been intently reading through some sort of documents the whole time.

“Klaus!”

Lilia’s father shouted angrily once again. Her brother only gave a slight glance, and with a small click of his tongue put away his papers. Thinking her father would show some reaction to the rude tongue click, it seems that it did not actually reach his ears. As if it had nothing to do with her, Lilia thought about how noisy these people were right from the morning.

“Well then… Let’s eat.”

Completing their before meal prayer, Lilia reached out and took a piece of the bread laid before her.

During breakfast, Sakura was in a great mood. Now that she knew that Lilia was the type to listen, she was humming all the time. It wasn’t as if the humming was completely tone deaf and grinding on the ears, so Lilia didn’t pay much attention to that part. But she was questioning why Sakura was so happy.

—Tasty food.

It was a short but easy to understand answer. With their senses shared, it seems that whenever Lilia ate delicious tasting food Sakura would also feel great and become happy.
Thinking those carefree thoughts, it suddenly happened.

“Klaus! That’s enough!”

Once again Lilia’s father shouted angrily. Thinking that they were such noisy people, she turned to look towards her elder brother. He once again had those documents in his hands, with wrinkles between his eyebrows.

“How many times do I have to tell you to at least stop working during mealtimes!”

“I must say, Father. These are things I must urgently take care of. If what these documents show is true, that person is improperly using our family’s finances. Shouldn’t the meal wait until after such a thing.”

“But it should not become a problem during just one mealtime.”

“That is naive, Father. Regarding improper actions, we should take care of such matters with haste.”

It was about making an example out of it as a warning to others.
At her brother’s concluding words, her father made a grimace. It seems that the father and son had different ways of thinking.

—Well it has nothing to do with me after all.

—Lilia. You won’t stop them?

—Oh my. Should I be? If you say so, Sakura, I’ll give it a try.

Even though she asked so, Sakura’s answer was obvious. If Sakura judged that she should stop them here, Lilia would have received such instructions before she had to ask to confirm for herself.

—I won’t say that. Even if you did speak up, they would probably just tell you that women should stay out of it or something.

—That’s right huh. It’s easy to imagine what would happen.

—Yep. We’ll just continue our preparations for school. And after that’s finished we’ll study as much as we can.

—Yeah yeah.

Lilia glanced at her father and brother, before changing her gaze to her mother. Noticing Lilia’s gaze, her mother gave a wry smile as she understood Lilia’s intention and nodded. Giving a light bow towards her mother, Lilia got up from her seat. The duo engaged in their oral combat remained oblivious.

“Elder Sister. I will go as well.”

Her younger brother Theo timidly held on to Lilia’s sleeve. As she frowned ever so slightly, with a warning from Sakura, Lilia hurriedly plastered a smile on her face. Even she herself believed that her artificial smile had improved over this one week.

“Alright then. Shall we head off?”

“Yes.”

Theo also left his seat, and on their way to the door the documents on the table came into view.

—Gosh… Aren’t the problems here on a different level than what they’re arguing about.

Expenses, and their sources, were the things written on the documents. The entries had bad spacing and were hard to distinguish, rendering the contents to be quite complicated to look at. It was like the thing was just asking for miscalculations to happen.
In fact, the one who made this document and her brother who confirmed it were both mistaken and at fault here.
Since it couldn’t be helped, Lilia let out a small sigh, and opened her mouth to speak.

“Elder Brother.” *TLN: Actually “Onii-sama”, but my style’s already set :(

“What is it. Women should stay out of this alright.”

At the abrupt disregarding attitude Lilia reflexively knit her eyebrows. Her father also looked like he was uncomfortable with her brother’s words, so before he could raise an objection and she gets caught up in the argument as well she quickly gave an evasive response.

“As I am a busy person myself, I’ll just say one thing. Here, here, and here. The calculations are wrong.”

“What are you talking abou-…”

Her brother looked down at the documents. After falling silent for a while, his eyes went wide with shock.

“Well then, I will be taking my leave.”

Saying so Lilia lowered her head, and headed for the dining room door. Having no more interest in something like her father and brother’s quarrel, she took Theo along and just like that exited the room.

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Well I didn’t manage to keep up my daily updates, but the great manga team here hopefully filled in the gap with their new release of a similarly “duke’s daughter” based story, heh. Anyways, I’m back with chapter five. I should’ve probably said this sooner, but big thanks to doom_chicken (the editor on tamakeribanchou) who always runs a quick edit scan of my chapters after I post them, as well as everyone else who helps point out the weird stuff in my work. Enjoy!

After breakfast, when Lilia went towards her quarters, Alisa was standing before her room. Before Lilia knew it Alisa was already in a respectful bow. Disregarding it she went past Alisa and entered.

“Mistress, what shall we do about school?”

With a start, Lilia stopped her movement.
In this country there existed the Upper Academy and the Lower Academy, with the upper level school being for nobles and famous merchants to attend. On top of, obviously, learning to read and write, the lessons there consisted of such things as history and math, with even simple magics being included in the curriculum. It was a place for nurturing the talents of society’s elites. On the other hand, the lower level school simply taught the bare minimum of reading and writing skills, and anyone could enroll here simply by paying a small tuition fee.
The one Lilia attended was of course the Upper Academy. Enrolling in the same school as the prince, she had competed consistently in the top rankings with her superior grades. However, currently the prospect of returning to classes was not appealing in the least.

“Not going.”

At Lilia’s words, Alisa suppressed a sigh.

“That won’t do, Mistress. You’ve already been away for a whole week. The master has yet to say anything but, at this rate…”

“At this rate, what?”

Narrowing her eyes, she turned to face Alisa. Looking about to cry, Alisa lowered her eyes to the ground. Lilia gave a small sigh and continued further into her room. Sitting down in an expensive looking chair, she tapped lightly on the table before her with a fingertip.

“Yes… I understand.”

Recognising her master’s intention from that action alone, Alisa gave a small bow and left from the room. Lilia let out a breath of relief, and sank deep into the chair.

—Lilia. You can’t just not return to school you know.

—I know, I know….

She knew that she couldn’t keep going like this. But, if she went back to the school, there would be no avoiding all the faces she didn’t want to see, and the prince would definitely be looking towards her with scorn. If nothing else, that would not be able to endure.

—Sakura. With your instructions, would I be able to win back the prince?

—Sorry. I can’t say for sure, but it’d probably be impossible.

Though the answer was to be expected, actually hearing it Lilia couldn’t help but feel down. Even though up until now the prince would show her his smiling face when they met, from now on that would certainly be impossible. Just thinking about such a thing, tears naturally spilled from Lilia’s eyes.

—Lilia. It’s not like I don’t get your feelings but.

—What now…

—It’s your just desserts. The consequences to your actions. It’s nothing more, nothing less than that yeah?

Lilia’s eyes shot open, a flickering anger burned in her pupils. She opened her mouth, about to yell out.

—It was the way you handled it that was wrong.

The words made Lilia come to a halt.

—It was a fact that you were engaged. Even if he’s a prince, he couldn’t erase that fact, or easily cancel your engagement. Even if it was infuriating, you should have just watched over him, and treated it as a temporary infatuation on his part.

—Isn’t it obvious… That I’d never be able to do such a thing…

—That’s right isn’t it. Besides, such things are already done and in the past.

At Sakura’s reasoning, Lilia reflexively knit her eyebrows. Certainly, nothing can be done now about the things that happened. But she didn’t have to put it like that.

—Right now, you can only do you best in your current reality.

She already knew that. Lilia also accepted the fact that she couldn’t continue her break from school. It’s just that, no matter what she didn’t want to meet that girl and the prince.

—That’s why, Lilia. You just have to make that prince regret his decision in not choosing you right?

—Something like that… How in the world, am I supposed to do that…?

Getting back at him didn’t seem like a bad idea. Against an untouchable existence like the prince, making him regret his own actions was the next best thing. The problem was that Lilia couldn’t think of any way to actually accomplish this.
Sakura however smiled, as if saying it was quite simple.

—You can do it as long as have the know-how. Become familiar with everyone, a person recognised by all, respected by all. Show kindness towards various people, while staying unrelenting at times to prove your reliability. I won’t tell you to garner the admiration of ten thousand fans, but you must be able to win the support of the majority of people.

—Sounds like an empty dream to me…

—That may be so. But, there’s nothing to lose from aiming for this goal, right?

Everything Sakura had said only amounted to an ideal, a dream. No matter how much one strives in their pursuit of knowledge, they still couldn’t hope to succeed over someone who had studied to become an expert. But even so, it was probably better to struggle than simply rotting away in defeat. Alone, such a thing was probably impossible to accomplish for Lilia, but for better or for worse right now she had this meddlesome being beside her.

—Since you’re saying all this, I take it that you will be lending me your strength, yes?

To Lilia’s question, Sakura gave her cheerful response.

—Why but of course. ‘Cause I’m an angel after all! I’ll be your guiding sage!

—Angel? Isn’t this just the delusion of an evil spirit?

—Meanie!

An indignant complaint came aimed at her, but Lilia ignored it. At being disregarded, Sakura suddenly fell silent, then spoke in a tiny voice.

—Fine then fine then. I’m just an evil spirit. Hmmph…

At the voice growing so timid, Lilia couldn’t help but let out a laugh. If she were to apologise, Sakura would probably immediately cheer up, laughing. Though she thought about what a simple person that girl was, Lilia didn’t put that into words. After all, chatting with Sakura did cheer her up a little.
That was why,

—Though it really isn’t too far off the mark huh.

Lilia pretended to not hear this muttering that came from Sakura.

“Alisa. Could I trouble you to have something easy to eat delivered to my room for lunch? Also, could you bring me something to write with right now. Ahh, school? I’ll go starting next week.”

Alisa was somewhat perplexed at Lilia’s instructions, but she immediately moved to carry them out. Passing on Lilia’s request to the cook, just to be safe she also went to report to Kelvin, the Master of the estate. Thus borrowing from him some paper and a pen, she returned to Lilia’s room.

“Did you report to Father?”

“Should I not have?”

“No such thing. In fact it was something I should have included in my instructions.”

Lilia was thankful that Alisa had accomplished the things she deemed necessary even without being ordered to.
Though eventually she might act outside of of Lilia’s intentions, for now there was nothing to be worried about. Receiving the pen and paper from Alisa, Lilia saw her off before sitting down in a chair.
Spreading the paper on the table, it was a slightly large piece of white parchment.

—That some nice paper. It’s amazing how you can easily obtain such a thing here.

“Indeed. This is the materialisation of Mother’s efforts. The magic to make paper was developed by Mother after all.”

As long as you had the materials, with just the chant and the magic formation you could mass produce this paper. This was the magic that Lilia’s mother, Ascha had pioneered, which completely had overturned paper’s status as a super valuable commodity just years prior. Thanks to her mother, even commoners could easily obtain and make use of paper these days.
Although it wasn’t a good thing for everyone; there was the problem of rendering the jobs of most people who were in the paper making industry obsolete, at this point things have generally calmed down regarding that.

“And so? What should I be doing?”

—Right. I will teach you the way, Lilia. I have no idea about things like etiquette or magic, but I am confident that my wealth of knowledge won’t lose to anyone else in this world.

It was certainly big talk. She could not completely believe in such grand words but, even so Sakura seemed more capable than Lilia herself.

“Well then, I’ll look forward to it.”

At receiving a suitable response, Sakura enthusiastically declared to ‘leave it to me’.
Though, they’ll soon find out that Sakura’s words might not necessarily prove to be as flawless as they seem.

For one week, Lilia again remained shut in her room. Just, this time it couldn’t truly be called that, as she never failed to show up in the dining room for meals. Every time she appeared she would receive worry from her parents, and scornful eyes from her elder brother, but ignoring it all Lilia remained completely focused on tackling her studies with Sakura.
Eating. Sleeping. Learning. Every day would roughly consist of a constant cycle of these things. The only exception was in her morning routine.

“It still hasn’t sprouted?”

“It’s just been planted after all.”

At the back of the estate, there was the flowerbed that Lilia and Alisa were taking care of together. Simply watering the soil, Lilia always gazed at the flowerbed without ever getting tired of it. Perhaps thinking such a thing was quite unusual, Alisa would be smiling beside her.

“Miss Lilia. You know, even if you stare at it so much it’s not going to grow any faster.”

Without realising when it began, Alisa had started to call Lilia using her name. Since there weren’t any bad intentions behind it, things simply continued like that.

“I know that of course. Don’t worry about it.”

“Fufu…”

Though Alisa watched on with a pleasant smile, the reality was a little different from her thinking.
Lilia was doing it simply to lengthen this break of hers, as much as possible. At the very least, she would continue until Sakura said something about it…

—Lilia. It’s about time to get back to studying. We still have a long ways ahead of us you know.

As she expected, Sakura urged her to continue with her studies. Lilia let loose a small sigh, and sluggishly lifted herself up.

“Miss Lilia. You will be studying today as well?”

“Yes. There are still many things I must be taught after all.”

“To be taught…?”

Alisa frowned in doubt at such words, while Lilia hastily cleared her throat. Shaking her head, as if to say she was just talking to herself, Lilia hurriedly escaped back towards her room.

“Bring me something to eat that’s easy to hold later on.”

At the request sent towards Alisa right before disappearing into the mansion, the maid conveyed that she understood, seeing her master off with a bow.

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Is it just me or are these chapters only getting longer? I wonder if it’s normal to spend six hours translating one chapter? I sure hope not. Let’s hope all this work will help me improve and get faster, or maybe trying to write English prose will always take this damn long for me. Also, in this chapter you’ll see my best impression of what a robot sounds like in text, since I didn’t want to just do something boring like capitalise random letters. Whatever, here’s chapter 4. Enjoy!

Returning to the flowerbed, it seemed that Alisa was obediently waiting there as commanded. Confirming Lilia’s return, for some reason the maid let out a sigh of relief.

“I’ve spoken with Father. He allowed me to grow flowers here.”

At Lilia’s abrupt declaration, Alisa gave a bow in agreement.

“This flowerbed belongs to Mistress. So…”

“For now, Alisa, bring me tools. Immediately.”

“Eh, ah… Yes. Certainly.”

Though she was looking somewhat dissatisfied, Alisa still ran off to retrieve the tools. Looking on as her maid departed, Lilia simply stood there waiting. Sakura made a sound in protest as if she had something to say, but it was ignored.
Alisa returned shortly, and in her hands she carried a basket filled with a small spade and other various gardening instruments.

“Thank you for waiting.”

“Yes. Well then Alisa.”

Under Lilia’s intense gaze, Alisa held a panicked expression, unsure if she had done something to displease her master. Probably completely unaware of Alisa’s inner thoughts, Lilia continued.

“From today on this flowerbed belongs to me right?”

“Yes… That is so.”

“However, I have absolutely no idea about how flowers are raised.”

Towards Alisa with her head tilted in confusion, Lilia presented the paper bag containing the seeds. As she received it, Alisa’s bewilderment only deepened.

“You, will raise them.”

“Eh.”

“Of course since this is my flowerbed, I will be helping. That’s why I’ve come this far together with you. I’ll be giving you my assistance, so you’d better make these flowers bloom beautifully when the time comes.”

Finally seeming to understand her intentions, Alisa’s eyes widened. The muffled snickering coming from Sakura was a little bit unpleasant, but Lilia still had one thing she wanted to say.

“You are my personal maid. It is my wish to see these flowers bloom brilliantly. You can make that happen, yes?”

Alisa nodded repeatedly, and gave a vigorous bow.

“Yes! Thank you very much, Mistress!”

While feeling a little thrill from giving commands as a superior, Lilia immediately began her instructions. Bringing out the spade from the tools Alisa brought,

“Well then let’s get planting. Will you teach me how to do this, Alisa?”

“Yes! Of course!”

Lilia had to narrow her eyes a little at the overwhelming brilliance of Alisa’s beaming face.

Finishing her gardening with Alisa, Lilia once again went for a bath. Having ordered Alisa to bring her a fresh change of clothes, Lilia headed towards the baths.

—Well ain’t you just a blushing schoolgirl?

On the way, Sakura’s cheerful teasing voice came out. At being ignored, Sakura simply continued.

—You did things in such a way to raise the plants together while maintaining your pride as the master, but Alisa probably already has you figured out you know?

—Oh shut up. I followed what you said so you should have no complaints right?

—Why of course. You did very well.

—Your tone just always has to be so irritating, huh…

Lilia was well aware by now that trying to retort any more than this would simply be foolish endeavor, so she stepped into the bathroom without another word.

Finished with the bath, Lilia changed into the dress Alisa had prepared for her and headed to the dining room. With the time spent working in the dirt, it was almost time for breakfast.

—I wonder what’s on the menu today~. I’m looking forward to it.

—It’s not like you’re the one that’s going to be eating here.

—Fufufu. Behold, one of my special angel powers! All of your sensations are shared with me!

Sakura boasted with an “Ahem!”. If she had a body she would certainly be puffing out her chest in pride. At being able to easily picture such a sight, Lilia couldn’t help but let out a smile.

—So, you’re not really an angel, are you?

—0F C0UR53, 13N’T 1T 0BV10U5. (monotone)

—Why are you talking like that…

While wondering what kind of existence Sakura could really be, Lilia opened the door to the dining room.
A large table stood at the center of the wide dining room. The rest of the family were already seated there. Lilia’s father Kelvin, her mother Ascha, her elder brother Klaus, and younger brother Theo made up the four currently sitting at the table. Together with Lilia, these five were the Aldis Duke family that resided in this estate.
With Lilia arriving at the table, the servants brought in the food for breakfast. With the center of the table lined with fresh bread, bowls filled with soup were placed in front of the diners. A jam-like substance made from mashed fruits was also brought out.
Though it was quite a simple breakfast for this Duke clan who’s power was second only to the royal family, this was normal at this mansion. Alisa’s mother preferred to have modest meals, so big feasts that couldn’t be finished in one sitting were foreign to this house. This was one of the things Lilia was dissatisfied about.

—How embarrassing it is to have your meals be inferior even to the barons of this country.

—Well, hey. It’s delicious so isn’t this fine. The taste here is better than what you’d get at the occasional banquet you went to right?

Lilia shook her head, unable to comprehend Sakura’s point of view.
With everyone now gathered, they began to give their prayer. To the god of this world.
No one spoke during the meal. The silence stretched on as they ate. According to her mother, this was the best way to show appreciation towards the people who made them the meal. In the end, the reasoning behind this was incomprehensible to Lilia as well.

—So the one behind all the un-duke-like things here was Ms. Ascha. Isn’t that great.

—I can’t understand it at all. To not use the privilege bestowed upon you.

—Ahaha. Lilia sure is a natural born aristocrat.

Though Lilia felt like making a comeback, it would just be wasted effort, or rather pointless emotional exertion against Sakura. Without minding it she made to finish her meal.

—Yep. It was quite delicious after all. This jam was especially nice, wasn’t it.

—Are my senses really shared with you right now? By the way, what kind of things do you hate?

She had thought it was just another joke, but their senses really did seem to be connected from the delighted tone of Sakura’s voice. While being a bit surprised at this, Lilia showed a mischievous expression.

—Green peppers. No way to that bitterness!

—Very nice. I’ll remember that well.

—Wait wait what are you gonna do no way hold up really the thing I hate is that jam you know!

After that point Sakura kept on insisting about her “real” hated food, but it was all ignored. With the silence around the time that the meal was finished, Lilia tilted her head slightly, pondering her next move.

—I’m sorry… If anything, please just stay away from raw green peppers… I’ll deal with anything else…

It was an absolutely tearful voice. Hearing it Lilia reflexively spat out the water she was drinking. Astonishing her surroundings, the servants hastily rushed over, but Lilia’s mind was completely preoccupied with something else.

—It’s just a joke, I’m not going to do such weird things alright!

—Really?

—Really, really, I promise.

—Lilia… Thank you so much!

This time it had completely flipped over to a voice so happy it was dancing for joy. Though it almost felt mad with enthusiasm, it didn’t have that much of a bad connotation to it.
With the dirtied table quickly cleaned up by the servants, Lilia’s father slowly opened his mouth to speak.

“Lilia. About what we talked about this morning…”

Wondering what it could be about, Lilia turned to face her father. Since she had done nothing wrong, looking closely at her father’s face he seemed to be returning an awkward gaze towards her.

“I heard the story from Alisa.”

“Is that so. Are there any problems?”

While Sakura deemed that there should be no problems here, her father’s judgement might differ. She nervously waited for her father to continue.

“No, no problems. It seems that you will be raising those flowers together with Alisa from now on huh.”

“Yes. Ah, that’s right, Father. I would like to personally have Alisa as my maid, would that acceptable?”

Confusion appeared in her father’s eyes. Though, as he straightened his neck, it had already disappeared. In it’s place her father had a wry smile.

“Though in the first place, Alisa was supposed to be the personal maid assigned to you…”

“Huh? My apologies, Father. I didn’t seem to quite catch your words…”

It was only with these words that her father spoke in a small voice. It wasn’t heard clearly the first time, but, well her father simply shook his head this time.

“Don’t worry about it. Regarding Alisa, there’s no problem. You can take her as your personal maid.”

“Really? Thank you very much, Father.”

—Lilia! Smile time!

At Sakura’s sudden exclaimation, Lilia’s expression reflexively turned into a dubious frown. It wasn’t as if anything really good happened, so it seemed out of the ordinary to smile here. Even so, at Sakura’s urging, she would just follow along for now.

Thanks you very much, Father.

Expressing her thanks once again, she showed a smile. She had been trained on how to smile from a young age so there were no problems. However, Her father’s wry smile only got deeper.

“There’s no need to for a smile. Don’t worry about it.”

—Wait a sec… Was it a failure?

—Ehh??

It seems that Sakura wasn’t omnipotent after all. It seems like her own judgement was also required, Lilia thought as Sakura’s evaluation was lowered just a little. She quickly returned her sight to here father as he cleared his throat.

“Back to the topic but, I heard you’re going to raise the flowers with Alisa. To be honest, since you’ve only ever thought about yourself I was quite surprised.”

“My, that’s horrible Father. I am always concerned about my surroundings though?”

As her father’s face twitched ever so slightly, her mother and elder brother let out small sighs. Only her little brother had a blank expression as he gazed at everyone else’s reactions.

“Well, yep. Alright. Lilia. Do take care of the people around you.”

At her father’s conclusion, taking his leave, he departed from the dining room. Her mother followed, and her two brothers also left the room in a hurry. Alone in the dining room, Lilia was simply left there, with her head dubiously tilted to one side.

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Well here’s chapter 3. As usual, I’ll give my obligatory “took me forever” complaint here. Anyways, enjoy!
By the way, I’ve decided to colour Sakura’s speech pink and Lilia’s, well, google tells me that that’s what the colour of lilies are so let’s go with that. Let me know if it makes thing easier or harder to read! Also, you can thank Este for the colouring work on any future and past posts, since he’s offered to do it for me whenever I’m too lazy to work it in. And maybe in the future I can make Alisa’s speech the colour of heather, whatever that is. Cause apparently Alisa comes from Alice which was eventually derived from some German word meaning heather. Or the Alyssa spelling variant, originating from some flower called Alyssum. Wikipedia is just wonderful isn’t it. Rainbow text here we come~

Sakura was the one amazed at Lilia’s recent actions this time around. It was unbelievable that even without any intervention from Sakura, Lilia had made the young maid Alisa into her personal attendant. One had to wonder how this came to be. Such a thing happening was perplexing, as much as it was odd.
At hearing about becoming Lilia’s personal maid, the expression on Alisa’s face could only show that she was at a complete loss as to whether she should be overjoyed, or saddened at this fact. In fact, Alisa was originally hired to be Lilia’s personal maid. Though, Lilia being how she is, this fact had completely left her mind immediately after Alisa’s first introduction. Lilia having so easily forgotten about her brought Alisa some sadness, but she also felt happy that Lilia would now personally establish her as a personal maid.
Thinking back on Alisa’s reaction back then, Sakura endlessly tried to bear with her urge to laugh out loud, and turned her mind towards the things to come.

Finishing with her bath, Lilia donned the dress Alisa had readied for her and set off outside the mansion accompanied by her maid. Even though Lilia said that she would be fine going alone, Alisa wouldn’t budge in her decision to always accompany her master.
It seems she somewhat lacks self confidence.
The grounds around the mansion were lined with flowerbeds. It was the maids’ responsibility to raise the flowers here, so all around, the flowerbeds were blooming with diverse blossoms reflecting the tastes of their various caretakers. The flowerbeds themselves were by no means organised in uniformity of any kind. Among them were plants of different seasons, and ones just sprouting their buds in the soil.

“Looking at it again… This, isn’t there anything we can do about this? It’s the first thing visitors will see upon entering the estate, so I think it’s better if we pay attention to the appearance a bit more.”

At Lilia’s words, Alisa showed a troubled expression.

“This is something the lord here bestowed upon us… “Don’t worry about it and just do as you like. Don’t bother worrying about something trivial like its appearance.” was what he said.”

“Hmmm… So in other words, someone like me who actually pays attention to “trivial” matters such as appearance is just a narrow-minded woman right?”

“Eh? Tha, that’s really not what I meant! Really!”

Really now, thought Lilia, as she turned her face away and proceeded into the garden. Behind her, Alisa followed along with her shoulders drooped.

—Lilia. Kindness. Did you suddenly forget how to be nice again?

—As if. I was just teasing her a little.

Even though it wasn’t something that would bother her now, this girl named Alisa displayed such strong reactions to her emotions. Conversing with her became quite the amusing activity.

“Alisa. Which one is your flowerbed?”

“My flowerbed, you say? It’s much too boring. It’s better if you don’t…”

“Never mind that, just take me there already.”

“Uuu…As you wish…”

For some reason, it seems that Alisa was hesitant to show Lilia her flowerbed. While thinking it strange, pointing this out would only make her more averse to showing Lilia. Sakura was surprised but understood this, so she decided to keep silent.
Alisa showed Lilia the way as they advanced. Along the way, the numerous other servants they passed by were all wide eyed in surprise at the sight of Lilia and Alisa. Among them some were glancing back in worry for Alisa. It wasn’t as if Lilia had intended to devour the poor girl for lunch, but she made no move to explain the situation.
And so Alisa led her to their destination, near the back entrance of the estate. The entrance was mostly for the coming and going of servants and merchants. A bit to the side, was a small flowerbed.

“What is this. There’s nothing here.”

The flowerbed Alisa pointed to was filled with plain dirt. There weren’t even weeds growing there. Trying to explain, Alisa had a cramped expression as she responded.

“No, that is… I didn’t have any time, for it… Nothing was planted. I’ve thought to give it my best shot in the past but, everything always wilted…”

“Why don’t you have time for it? Are you saying that you’re the only one getting extra work?”

It wasn’t as if she was trying to help Alisa or anything, but if that was true then she would at least raise an objection with Alisa’s superior. She thought it would be fine to do at least that much.
But Alisa shook her head, and replied in a small voice.

“It’s, because I’m too slow. If only I could work skillfully like my seniors here…”

Somehow it seems like the problem lies with Alisa herself. Lilia couldn’t help but let out a sigh. What’s more, Alisa even said that her seniors were maintaining the flowerbed for her, preventing it from being overrun by weeds. So that it was ready to receive plants at any time, they took care of it for Alisa.

“Well then, do you have any intention of planting something?”

“No… I can’t say that I do…”

“Is that so.”

The conversation was cut off at that point. Uncertain about what Lilia was thinking as she stared at the empty plot, Alisa was restless as she fidgeted nervously. Though in the first place, there was no deeper meaning to Lilia’s observation of the flowerbed, as she was simply wondering whether something should be planted here after all.

—Lilia.

Sakura spoke. Lilia prompted her to continue through her silence.

—You should try raising some flowers together with Alisa. I’m sure she would be thrilled.

Lilia grimaced at the prospect, while the observing Alisa turned pale at seeing her master’s sudden displeasure.

—No way. Seems like a pain.

While Lilia did appoint Alisa as her personal maid, she wasn’t under the impression that they had become friends or anything. To put things frankly, it was simply convenient that from now on she’d have someone about the same age as her around. Nothing more, nothing less.
Having this thought conveyed to her, Sakura sighed in disappointment.

—To hell with the reasoning. Lilia. Go with it.

This time it was Lilia’s turn to sigh. She had no idea what good it would do, but she didn’t want to go back on her word after promising to listen to Sakura’s instructions. Reluctantly, Lilia turned to face the maid. She spoke to the intimidated Alisa.

“This flowerbed, there are no plans to use it anytime soon right?”

“Ah… Yes.”

“Then I’ll be taking it under my care.”

At those sudden words, Sakura’s breath got caught in her throat, while Alisa’s mind went numb from astonishment. Coming to process those words little by little, Alisa started to become flustered in an amusing reaction. Simply staring at Alisa’s condition, a while passed before the maid finally calmed down with a short sigh, and nodded in understanding.

“Since I have no plans to use it, this flowerbed will be entrusted to Mistress Lilia. I will take care of informing the Master.”

“That will not do. I have something to ask of my father so I will go to speak with him. Wait here until I return.”

Leaving a dumbfounded Alisa, Lilia returned to the mansion from the back entrance.

—Lilia. What are you trying pull here?

—Pull what? I’m properly following your directions.

—Muu… Well, I suppose how you accomplish my instructions, is for you to decide…

Lilia was walking down the hallway heading towards her father. If it’s now, he should be working in his office going through documents. It had become his routine to confirm all the paperwork for the day before breakfast time. Knocking on the door of the second floor office, sure enough her father’s voice came in response.

“Who is it?”

“It’s me, Father.”

“Lilia…? So you’ve come out of your room, huh. Enter.”

Though the words were blunt, he was wrapped in a happy atmosphere. For her normally unemotive father, Lilia was considerably surprised at his current disposition. And so she reflected on her actions a little. To think that he had been this worried.
Lilia entered the office. At the very back of the room sat her father at his desk. Though the eyes that stared straight at her father shone in a cold light, the side of her face moved ever so slightly. As if she was suppressing a smile.

“Good morning, Father.”

“Ahh, morning. So, what do you need?”

Overturning the happy mood from before, the talk proceeded quickly. Lilia who was aware that her father was a busy person even amongst the nobles, quickly cut to the chase.

“It seems that Father had bestowed the flowerbeds here to the maids.”

“Ahh. I thought that it would be a good past-time for them. What about it?”

“I one request regarding that. I would like to receive the flowerbed allocated to Alisa.”

Her father’s face fell in disappointment. With a shake of his head, he gazed at Lilia through squinted eyes. With just that the temperature in the room plummeted all at once.

“Lilia. So you’re still saying such things, huh….”

It was her father’s way of ascertaining her own actions. With admiration towards her reliable father, Lilia responded.

“Do you happen to have any seeds you would recommend? If you have any suggestions I’d very much like to receive them.”

Without a word, her father silently got up, and went to a shelf at the corner of the wall. Opening the shelf, from inside it he produced a small paper bag. She wondered why in the world he had flower seeds kept in such a place, but those thoughts were dispelled as her father approached with the bag in hand.
Her father presented the paper bag, and Lilia respectfully received it.

“Lilia. If you overdo it too much, even I won’t be able to protect you anymore.”

“My, what a strange thing to say. I’m not doing anything to be ashamed of right now you know?”

Heaving a large sigh, her father gave a short “you may go”, and returned to the back of the room. Lilia gave a deep bow on the spot, as she took her leave and exited from the room.

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Holy crap, another one? Somehow, this one took much longer than the others so far.  Hopefully it won’t always be this tough. Anyways, enjoy the chapter! I’ll try to make updates as frequently as possible for the first while at least, so people can have enough material to get an impression of the story.

The next day.

After the her reunion with the voice in her head, Lilia had at some point passed out, probably due to having finally calmed down after a week of distress. Having woken, Lilia looked outside, as the bright morning sunlight streamed in from window. As the prospect that last night could very well have all been a dream crept into her mind, Lilia was starting to feel crestfallen once again when-

—Mornin’, Lilia.

At that voice’s carefree morning greeting, Lilia felt relief from the bottom of her heart.

“Good morning. Come to think of it, I still haven’t gotten your name yet.”

—Eh? Ahh, my name, huh… Well, you can just call me Sakura.

“Sakura, is it? Alright. Well then Sakura, for now, what should my next actions be?”

—That’s right. It’s time for your morning greetings! Out to the halls! The maids would be your first targets!

Lilia’s eyes went round in astonishment, and an unpleasant frown quickly surfaced on her face. Why she should have to give greetings to the lowly servants here, was the question that both of them knew to be running through Lilia’s mind. Sakura let out a small sight and said frankly.

—Lilia. The problem here is your attitude of looking down on everyone else. Do you understand that?

“Well that… may, be the case… But if anything there shouldn’t be a need to even flatter the maids is there!”

Even without a temperament like Lilia’s, most nobles would still have cold attitudes towards their servants. To the servants of this country, just serving a master with an indifferent attitude towards them would be considered a blessing. Lilia herself was certainly aware that she possessed a severe personality, but she had no intention of reforming her attitude towards her servants.
But Sakura only gave an exaggerated sigh.

—Lilia. What would you think if a good friend of yours mistreated their servants?

“That it must suck to have useless maids?”

—I was an idiot for asking you after all!

What should I do, Sakura lamented. Lilia remained dubious as she stood before the door, waiting for Sakura’s next words. Before long, Sakura, with a small nod and an “Alright”, said this.

—I give up on trying to explain it to you! Hey, Lilia. I want to help you.

At the sudden change of topic, Lilia tilted her head.

—Do you still not trust me?

“Honestly, I’m still not completely certain of my trust in you. But for now I’ve already decided to follow your words.”

—Then do as I said.

“Muu…”

Lilia understood, and accepted the fact in her heart. That Sakura had a clear reason behind her instructions, even if she couldn’t put it into words very well. Since it couldn’t be helped, she wouldn’t force herself in thinking about it. Lilia gave a small nod.
She opened the door. At that moment, what immediately came into view was the face of a maid.

“Ah…”

It was a girl around the same age as her. Lilia widened her eyes, and spoke with a voice devoid of emotion.

“You, standing around outside of someone’s room like that, what might I ask are you doing…?”

Though it wasn’t on purpose, her voice was cold and low. Consequently, the maid in front of her shook in fright as her eyes darted every which way, her mouth repeatedly flapped open and closed in panic. Angered by such an response Lilia prepared to speak out again.

—Wah! Hold up, hooold up! Lilia, down! Sit!

As Sakura shouted frantically, the words about to come out of Lilia’s mouth turned into air and dispersed.

—Hey, you know, Lilia. With the way you are usually, you’d get angry at the maids if they were even a little bit late in responding to your summons right? That’s why the maids, they probably always keep someone posted on stand by outside your room. Especially since you’ve been in an abnormal state recently, they’re probably feeling quite worried about you, yeah?

Lilia’s eyes widened in disbelief. While she herself felt there was no fault with the attitude she took with them, she certainly shouldn’t be someone who the maids looked fondly upon. Despite that, to think that they were worried about her, it was something that would have never crossed her mind.

—Of course, the same can’t be said for all of them. Not wanting to incur your anger, some people only begrudgingly take their posts out here, but among the maids there are girls like her here who are genuinely worried for your well being you know. You’ve gotta treasure these people more.

That’s why, you should treat them nicely, okay?

Sakura’s tone was overflowing with earnestness. Taking in those words, Lilia sorted out these feelings swirling inside of her. Returning her sight to the maid once more, Lilia found the girl gazing up at her with upturned eyes.

“Umm… I am terribly sorry, mistress.”

Said the maid with her head lowered in apology. The maid kept her head lowered in that state.

Perhaps she was waiting for my response, thought Lilia. “How dare you raise your head without my approval!” was probably something I’ve yelled in anger before. A naturally wrathful temperament, isn’t it.

“Don’t mind it. I just got a little worked up. Sorry about that.”

The moment those words came out of Lilia’s mouth, the maid before her raised her face with vigor. Her eyes opened wide as she stared at Lilia. At the unexpected reaction from the maid, Lilia involuntarily took a step back.

“Mistress!”

“Wha, what is it?”

“Are you feeling unwell?! Did you eat something strange?! Please wait here, rest assured I’ll go and bring the doctor immediately! So, please, let us quickly return to your room!”

“Hold up. What are you talking about?”

Lilia narrowed her eyes in displeasure at the excessive comments being hurled at her. But, the maid before her did not cease her actions, and continued to repeat that Lilia must please return to her room, that she’ll immediately find a doctor, and so on. In the end, after much time was wasted, Lilia finally managed to convince the girl that everything was alright.
And while all this was going on, Lilia never noticed the fact that Sakura was enjoying herself, laughing away at such a spectacle.

After having soothed Miss “Please return to your room!”, following Sakura’s instructions, Lilia decided to head out to the garden for now. While walking with the maid following behind, her feet were halted by a call of “please wait”, that came from the maid.

“What is it?”

“What shall we do about your change of clothes?”

Until it was mentioned just now, this fact had completely slipped her mind. What Lilia had on at the moment was the uniform she wore for the academy. Since the day the crown prince had revoked their engagement, Lilia had yet to change out of these clothes. Right as that fact surfaced, the resulting odour too surfaced along with it.

—That’s some serious funk, Lilia.

At Sakura who said this while playing dumb about the whole situation, Lilia reflexively shouted in retort.

“If you knew all along then tell me sooner!”

Startled, the maid before Lilia started to tremble furiously. She hastily lowered her head, apologising with “I am terribly sorry”. Even in Lilia’s eyes, the figure of the trembling maid seemed quite pitiful. Feeling apologetic, Lilia spoke somewhat frantically.

“That’s not it. Those words weren’t actually directed at you. So, don’t be so scared, okay…”

—Well, that girl is definitely thinking right about now. That there really isn’t anyone here but her.

Lilia’s cheeks twitched. She was on the verge of yelling out again, but seeing that the only one in front of her was the maid, the figure that belonged to the voice Lilia heard was certainly nowhere to be seen. Yelling again would only serve to further frighten the maid.
Lilia would not usually care about a maid’s feelings, but she just could not bring herself to coldly ignore the feelings of the girl who had shown that she truly cared for her master. Lilia was even a little surprised, deep down, that she could have such thoughts.

—Aww, by the way, even if you don’t say it out loud, I can still hear all the mutterings of your heart you know~

—These feelings, just express them from the start, silly!

Though she was starting to question whether she really should have trusted such a voice, Lilia had already decided to believe in Sakura. Simply put, going back on her words was something that went against Lilia’s nature. Heaving a large sigh, she turned to face the maid before her.
With a pale, fearful face, the maid also peeked up at the situation of her master with upturned eyes. Letting out a small sigh, with unpracticed facial muscles Lilia attempted to form a smile. Receiving the awkward, crude smile only added to the maid’s fright, but Lilia paid no mind to that detail. As a matter of course, Sakura was kept busy trying her best not to laugh at the scene.

“I’ll be heading out to the garden for a bit of fresh air. But, as you said, I, well, that is… It stinks right?”

At Lilia’s words, the still nervous maid, timidly gave a reserved nod.

“Sorry but, could you prepare the bath for me?”

“Eh? Ah, yes!”

Lilia wore a dubious expression at the astonished maid’s hurried reply, but paid no mind to it for now. The surprise change that, the Lilia who had commanded her servants with an iron tone had actually made a gentle request, was something that did not go unnoticed by Sakura after all. But she held off on doing something like pointing out this fact. After all, Sakura was already plenty occupied with simply trying to keep herself from bursting into laughter at this point.

“Ah, also. You, what’s your name?”

To Lilia’s question, the maid, still nervously hurried with her words, gives a reply.

“It’s, Alisa.”

“Alisa is it. I’ve got it. And your age?”

“I turn fifteen this year…”

“Is that so. Then you’re a year younger than me huh.”

Lilia nodded in satisfaction, and continued.

“I shall make you into my personal maid. Alright?”

“Eh? Ah, umm…”

Perhaps not understanding what Lilia had meant, it was clear to see that Alisa was in a state of panic. Lilia quickly realised the reason behind Alisa’s hesitation.

“Ahh, that’s right. First I’ll have to get approval from Father. I’ll confirm it with him later.”

“Eh, ahh… I understand. I look forward to your guidance.”

Seeing the deeply bowing Alisa, Lilia left with a satisfied smile painted across her face. Without looking back, she headed off towards the baths.

“By the way, Miss Sakura. Would you mind shutting up?”

—But…! Just… Ku, fufu, hehefu….!

Lilia proposed such to the Sakura who was desperately trying to hold in her unpleasant laughter.

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter

So yeah this took forever… still for some reason I did it, even though it’s now 2AM over here and I probably could have spent my time better in prep for all the things I need to do tomorrow.

This hasn’t been edited either since I’m certainly not staying up even later for such a thing so I’ll leave that for Este, or myself later.

Oh well, whatever, friendship is beautiful and all that. Enjoy this first chapter!

The large room was furnished with an extravagant bed and various other furniture. No matter where you looked, only items of the highest grade could be found here. All of these weren’t simply decorations either, and were all things actually used by the owner of the room. Even the carpet spread under the bed was a product of unimaginable value.

And in that room which could draw the envy of any commoner, sat a very troubled looking girl. Words such as “why”, and “how did this happen” were the only things that came from the girl, quietly mumbling to herself in distress. Her face dyed in despair, dark shadows could be clearly seen around her eyes. The long blonde hair she took pride in lay in severe disarray from the obvious lack of care.

The person on her mind right now was none other than this country’s crown prince. When she had heard that the prince had showed interest in another woman, she went to the school for nobles to see the woman for herself. Bearing an ephemeral image, the woman turned out to be a quiet-looking girl. She had scoffed at the idea that such a girl could draw the interest of the prince, but experienced first hand the impossible sight of the prince calling out to speak with the girl, even showing the girl a smile of his that she herself never had the privilege to see before.

And so she began her harassment of the girl. Without putting up any form of resistance, the girl quietly received the persistent bullying of her and her followers. As a consequence of her high position as a duke’s daughter, the girl seemed doomed to suffer without anyone being able to come to her aid. The prince certainly could have saved her from the situation, but it seemed as if the prince was trying to avoid this duke’s daughter.

However, such a situation could not hope to last forever. The prince had happened upon a scene during her harassment, and what’s more even witnessed the moment she raised her hand against the girl. The prince was as a result enraged by the scene, and furiously condemned her behaviour, thus saying this.

—I will have nothing further to do with you. I will get my father’s approval, and wipe away our engagement.

She despaired. She clung to the prince’s feet, and begged for her forgiveness. Thinking back on it, that was probably the first and final chance of her redemption.

—The target of your apologies should be someone else, no?

With those words, the prince shook her off, and left taking the girl with him.
Those were the events of the previous week. Since then, she had secluded herself inside her room.

The hours were pointlessly wasted away. Even though she felt that she had to do something, she could only sit in despair. For her, the willpower to do anything had long left her body.
Today similarly ended without anything having been accomplished. As the night dragged on, something stirred from a corner of her memory,

—Bonjour~ Gooood morning good evening! It’s been a while hasn’t it, Lilia.

At the sudden voice ringing throughout her head, Lilia threw up her face in surprise. Though she look all around, not a soul could be seen in her surroundings. All there was was her room which had returned to silence.

—Ahaha, where are you looking?

At the sound of the young woman’s voice, Lilia’s memories from two years ago surfaced. It was a voice she was familiar with in the past. And it was this voice that had actually predicted the prince’s wrath.

“Where are you…?”

—I’m both here and not here. I’ve always been by your side! Your very own guardian angel, here to lead you down the path to happiness!

“Did you come to laugh in my face or something?”

—Woah ho ho, someone’s in a bad mood. But, well, it couldn’t be helped yeah? Sorry ’bout that, being all weird and all.

The latter voice seemed to have actual regret mixed in, a downhearted response. At such a drastic shift in attitude, Lilia couldn’t help but allow a small smile to float onto her face as she relaxed her expression. If you were going to get depressed at your own foolishness, then don’t be like that in the first place, Lilia thought as she replied.

“It seems the future has gone down the path you predicted after all. If only I had properly listened to your words back then, I wonder if this situation could have been avoided?”

—It’s pretty useless to think about such things now. You had zero intention of listening to what I had to say back then after all. That’s why it was actually important to go through all this so that you would finally heed my words.

“In the end the price I had to pay to be able to finally trust you was pretty steep…”

Lilia sighed with deep emotion. Perhaps troubled at how to respond, the voice fell silent for a while.
As some time passed in silence, Lilia began to worry if the voice was already gone for good.

—Sorry, I’m not really good at this whole being sensitive and encouraging with my words thing.

Lilia slightly widened her eyes at the sound of that dejected voice. This was originally what I’d brought upon myself, so what is she doing being all considerate now.

—Lilia. I want to help you. That’s why, won’t you please listen to what I have to say, even a little?

Towards the earnest voice, Lilia could only give a wry smile, as she lightly nodded her assent.

“Wasn’t that the original promise? I put my full faith into your words. Though, I wonder if someone like me can really be saved after all? Will I be able to make amends with his highness?”

—Well… Instead of answering such a question, is it okay if I give one more prediction?

Lilia narrowed her eyes slightly in doubt, while urging the voice to go on.

—Well then well then… Ahem. You were depressed for a week. In this following week, you will think about your situation. What you did wrong, what you must do to make things better, and so on. And you will come to a conclusion. That you in fact did nothing wrong. That everyone else was at fault here.

“Wha…! Even for me that’s a little…!”

—Yep. The you who’s calmed down can certainly say that now. Let me continue. You will return to the academy. On your usual route, you will be even more conceited than usual. And the result of that…

The voiced stopped her words at that point. Lilia gulped in anticipation as she waited for the voice to continue.

—You will, let alone the Prince or the King, garner the wrath of the entire country. With that, even being from the duke’s family won’t allow you to get away with a simple “sorry”. Deprived of your peerage, your family will be cast down into the commoner’s realm.

“Is that all?” was what she thought. Certainly the King of this country had the authority to do such a thing, but in reality stripping a duke of his peerage was unheard of. Or that’s how it was supposed to be.

—There, imagine, Lilia. The duke’s family that had known only a noble’s life until then, suddenly cast down into the world of commoners. …Though, it’s probably impossible for you to imagine such a thing huh…

Just as the voice said, for Lilia it was impossible to know about the way commoners lived their lives. Though, what’s for certain is that it’d be impossible to lead the life of luxury which you’ve been living until now. No one in the family would be able to get used to such a life. Perhaps one might even be driven to commit suicide.
With those thoughts, a certain doubt inadvertently began to seep into Lilia. The talk up till now had been about Lilia’s family, so why was there no mention of Lilia herself? As one could more or less guess the answer to that, the voice, somehow bearing both a cheerful and compassionate tone, said thus.

—You don’t need to worry about yourself anymore at that point. After all, you’d already have been executed.

Hearing that, Lilia’s head went pure blank.

Executed?
Who?
Me?
Why?

—What you had done, well I’ll just keep quiet about that part. There’s no need for you to know.

At the poor, fragile appearance of Lilia as her face fell ashen, the voice took on a warm, gentle tone.

—Well then, Lilia. Here’s the big question. It’s not my intention to just let you die, you know. To make sure you don’t go down the wrong “route”, I’ll be here to advise you along the way. Just, it’s not like I have that much life experience either, so we should probably do our best and think things through together… What do you say, Lilia?

Sparing but a moment’s thought, Lilia immediately came to her conclusion.

“Please…Lend me your strength…”

A weak, faint voice that seemed as if it was disappearing. To that voice from Lilia, came an answer.

—Yep… Leave it to me, Lilia! I’ll be sure to save you!

At the sound of that strong, determined voice, Lilia’s warm tears streamed silently down her face.

<Previous Chapter | JAONNN! | Next Chapter>

Hey there, it’s Jaon, a new guy who happened to stumble into this “library” and proceeded to lose his way back.

So, until I find the entrance I’ll be throwing copious amounts of free time at a wall of Japanese text to bring you some cool story Este found for me.

Here’s a prologue.

Enjoy!