(#FULL) A Simple Kindness Led Her to Become the Duke’s Beloved Daughter-in-Law!

there are two powerful noble families in the Empire the first is house shz whose members are renowned as fearsome Warlords the second is house cider a family of merchants at the very heart of Commerce if combined the power of these two houses would Eclipse even the Imperial Family itself at one time the heads of these two families were close friends but 10 years ago tragedy struck when the Duke and Duchess of house cider fell from a cliff and perished upon hearing of the accident Duke shuts rushed to the scene of his friend's death there he

found their bodies in the remnants of a child's clothing he scoured the Northern Territories but was unable to find the missing child of the Duke and Duchess 10 years passed before he would finally find a lead Duke shs declared I'll adopt this child and so the Duke finally found the male lead Damian it was just like the story foretold Ellie thinks in her mind I kept my promise to help him find his family so I won't be kicked out of the orphanage according to the story he knew Damian would go on to fight alongside Duke

schutz in the war that would break out in 4 years eventually meeting ashel the female lead and living happily ever after but the Duke interrupted her thoughts I will take the child next to him as well confused the attendant asked will you raise her as your daughter the Duke replied no she is to become my daughter-in-law hearing that Ellie thought this was not how the story was supposed to go his daughter-in-law she had only intervened because she didn't want to end up on the streets and now he wanted her to be his daughter-in-law she was

shocked after hearing that before some time the noble said these children look quite all right to me the orphanage director assured the noble that their first priority is the well-being of the children the noble said I'll take that one at that time the Empire had emerged victorious in a number of Wars both large and small causing money to flow through the land in Torrance the nobles were eager to spend their wealth to flaunt their riches and show off their Spirit of the generosity to the world that was when they started adopting orphans who lost their

parents in the wars at least that was what it seemed like they did the director said thank you my Lord Ellie peaked at them and thought liar she only acted nice to impress the Nobles she wouldn't bother to bathe or feed us otherwise to secure donations by only accepting attractive orphans but the director didn't know the truth about her she was one of those children yes but her mother had been an Infamous Thief who had caused the Empire trouble before being hanged after stealing from a distinguished count who would willingly take in a thief's daughter

Ellie thought to herself as she was busy thinking the children came to her to play with her today she had been returned to the orphanage after being abandoned by her adoptive parents for the third time okay okay she said as other children called her to play after an accident on her way back she realized something shocking this world was from a story she had once read in her past past life she pursued the concept of creating objects and controlling people though the memories were hazy yet this accident had awakened her past life's memories oddly she

remembered only this story's events of the countless books she's read and yet she still couldn't recall the title she was relieved to know the future as she was sitting recalling everything the director came observing the director's expression she suspected the woman had lost money gambling again and then she noticed a new face behind the director he was dirty and Scruffy but carried himself with an unusual lack of nervousness director said say hello to your new friend his name is Daman her heart clenched she hadn't forgotten him once since realizing she was in a novel he

was the male lead the future hero who would defeat the emperor Damen cider with that realization Ellie understood her role she was one of the villains the character who bullies Daman and ultimately gets kicked out of the orphanage she was Ellie a villain in this story Daman the male lead lived a life marked by misery and sorrow his father Duke cider was the head of the Empire's most powerful Merchant Guild House cider held so much influence that some even claimed it was more essential to the Empire than the Imperial Family itself eventually however the emperor

grew envious of house cider's power and orchestrated their assassination in secret Duke cider's final will and testament written as though he anticipated the Betrayal left his family's wealth to his only friend art after that it didn't take long for Duke art shutz the ruler of the baron monster infested North and a bloodthirsty Warrior to become the target of Endy and ambition Whispers spread throughout the Empire Duke sh inherited The Cider family's Merchant Guild others grumbled we might be distant relatives but we're Duke cider's actual family despite their frustrations the will left them powerless Duke schutz

however had only one goal to find Damian the child who was rumored to look exactly like his father with black hair and blue eyes despite the forest of monsters surrounding the Northern Territories the Duke was convinced the boy had survived back to the present Ellie thought looking at Daman even though he lived a terrible Life as a slave he's the main lead so I knew he would survive and now he's in front of me according to the book he suffered a great deal but I didn't realize it was this bad I might be shorter than

other children my age but he's even smaller than me the director said to Children make sure you tell him what he needs to know about the orphanage and its rules Damian's entrance at the orphanage stirred unrest the oldest child Carson glowed complaining the orphanage is already overflowing with kids but she brought another guess we'll have less to eat now that there's another mouth Carson quickly sized up Damian sneering hey if you want to survive here you better do everything we say he asked tapping on his his head got it hey are you even listening to

me why won't you look at me but Daman stands in Silence the other child said Carson I don't like the look in his eyes Carson said just his eyes I think he looks weird all around why don't we knock him around a little they snickered and cackled looking at them Ellie thinks they'll regret that in the story Ellie knew she had been among those who bullied Daman led by Carson and his gang this bullying led to her character being expelled from the orphanage dying a lonely and miserable death afterward determined to avoid this fate Ellie

thought I have to stay alive no matter what when Carson called her to join in The Bullying she declined he just looks weak that's all she muttered determined to keep her distance and change her story Carson replied that's true I can already tell he's a good for nothing Ellie looks in daman's eyes and remembers you're the dirty daughter of a thief how dare you get out of here she flinched after remembering that suddenly a maid came and announced it's time to start preparing dinner everyone go to your assigned places the children replied yes ma'am as

dinner preparations began they walked towards their assigned places Ellie thinks in her mind this is when Carson will start bullying Damian if I just mind my own business then I might be able to avoid a bad ending at least as she was scrubbing potatoes she thinks it's none of her business Daman will be fine he was the main character after all he could handle it he'll figure it out I should be focusing on what I'll do after I leave the orphanage he'll survive one way or another even if he takes a few hits along the

way she suddenly remembers daman's dull eyes surrounded by Carson and his gang she thinks I've seen so many people ruin their lives by sticking their noses in other people's business standing in front of the door she resolved She Bangs on the door and Carson opens the door and said oh it's you you scared me I thought you were the director he asked what are you doing here Ellie tilts her head and said take a guess Carson smirked and points towards Daman he said can't you tell we're teaching the new kid a lesson we got to

initiate him somehow right he grabbed Damen be his shirt and said want to see something funny I thought this Punk was a girl at first but it turns out he's a boy isn't that weird what kind of boy has such a pretty face Ellie replied why does that matter at least he's better looking than you Carson asked with a rebuke what Ellie smiled and said I'm just joking the director said she's looking for you Carson replied ah we were just starting to have fun what does that Harpy want anyway Ellie replied she asked me where

you were I wouldn't wait too long you know what she's like then Carson said to Damian with a threatening face hey kid I guess today's your lucky day he pushed Daman to the ground and and said to his Lackey let's go after the left Ellie asked Daman hey are you okay Damen wipes his face with his sleeve Ellie quickly said hey don't do that it'll get infected use this she offered him a stolen ointment from the director's room she said it'll help with the pain Daman muttered something but Ellie couldn't hear it she asked what

is it Daman said I don't need it they'll just beat me again before it heals anyway so don't bother I'll just be hit again resistance just leads to more violence surrender is the easiest way to quell violence Ellie thinks he's so young but he already understands she said it's still better than nothing put some on later at least Daman accepted okay after closing the door Ellie's mind raced I thought I already understood what Daman had gone through when I read the book but when I look into his eyes and see how similar we look I

can't breathe as if I have a lump in my throat the children sat inside silence eating their supper quietly as they had been instructed the rule was clear there was to be no chatter during Meal Time Ellie looks around and thinks is Damien skipping supper I don't see him if he skips he'll be starving by tomorrow Ellie glanced down at her bread as she was busy thinking and not eating Tony asked if you're not going to eat your bread can I have it clutching the bread she said sorry Tommy this one's mine Tommy fumed but

you're not eating it she replied I'm going to she thinks though I don't know if he'll eat it or not later as she sneakily opens the door she thinks I should be helping clean the kitchen but I'm worried about Damian she looks inside as the room was empty she thinks he's not in the bedroom where could he be besides here as she closes the door Carson came and asked what are you doing here all by yourself looking for a ghost or something Ellie replied why would I be looking for a ghost I was just seeing

if Betty was here Carson said is that so he giggles and said well I know something even more fun than looking for ghosts Ellie instinctively knew he's talking about Daman Carson said his name is Daman right anyway I was eavesdropping on the director when I heard that he was a slave before he came here apparently he hunted monsters in the dark all by himself the other child besides Carson said that little brat give me a break who would believe that Carson then asked Ellie you don't have a crush on him or something right as he

said that a laughter arose Ellie tells in her mind Carson bullied most of the children at the orphanage but he was especially cruel to boys I took any interest in if he was less sadistic then I may have considered that his behavior was a childish form of affection toward me Ellie turns and said not really Carson then said anyway I think I saw him going to the warehouse Ellie asked the warehouse uh Carson continued only the teachers are allowed in there why would he go there Ellie said I'm not sure maybe they're taking special care

of him as Carson Twitches Ellie continued I saw him go in with the assistant teachers there's a lot of delicious food in there you know like you said Damian's really pretty the orphanage always prizes the pretty children you said he hunted monsters too right he must be gifted oh so that's why they didn't make him clean Carson was fuming as Ellie prays Damian she thinks in her mind Damen doesn't work because he's still a slave and has a master but Carson doesn't know that Carson said yeah right he was frozen like a statue when we

were roughing him up remember Ellie asked so you think you're stronger than him he replied obviously everyone follow me we're going to the warehouse the other child from his gang said okay Carson are we going to teach him another lesson Ellie stopped him and offered a bread Carson wait take this I brought it for you Carson blushed and asked what why he turns and said thanks as lights were put out from Halls Ellie went outside to look for Damian as she was walking in the snow she estimated that by now Carson and his cronies would

have gotten caught the maid caught them and said it was you you're the little thieves Carson said to the maid that's not true we just heard that Damian was here the maid said that's enough out of you and what's that bread in your hands Carson said I can explain while walking Ellie thinks I was going to give that bread to Daman but at least I got some use out of it Carson is so dumb searching the shadows for Daman her thoughts turned anyway where in the world is Damian she suddenly remembers Carson's words I heard

that he was a slave before he came here apparently he hunted monsters in the dark all by himself Ellie looked towards the Dark Forest and prayed oh no he better not be there in this story Duke shs asked Damen a question you're quite good with a sword did you ever received swordsmanship training to that Damen replied in the dark I had no choice but to learn how to use a sword that's what it took to survive remembering that Ellie thinks when I read that sentence I thought it was some Hackney platitude which implied that pain

and darkness are parts of the hero's journey you'll get sick if you stay out here she said finally finding Daman she asked you don't want to catch a cold right as Damian doesn't move she continued Carson and his friends got in trouble with the teachers so you don't have anything to worry about today let's go back together Damian replied they might be in trouble now but how long will that last they'll be back tomorrow I feel safer here than there remembering the story Ellie concludes I was wrong daman's life until now hasn't just been some

simple tragedy he chose to lock himself away in the darkness that's how painful his life had been maybe that's also why he learned to use a sword no one wants to live alone in the darkness like that Ellie then and spoke no they're not going to bother you anymore they'll be gone soon I promise she smiles and said I'll make sure that no one hurts you so come with me Damian Damian suddenly remembers the scene where Ellie offered him the ointment use this it'll help with a pain Damian then asked but why Ellie replied while

beaming with light because I want to she thinks in her mind it's true I really do want to help him I don't know whether or not he will come to understand me but I can't let myself self die like I did in the original story she said it's time to get going I was so worried about you that I couldn't eat let's go have supper as Ellie offered him her hand he said food as they were walking back Ellie thinks in her mind Damien didn't put up a fight fortunately that alone suggested that I managed

to change my destiny but Daman was happy following Ellie as they reached the inside of building Ellie said Damian we have to be quiet now the director and the other teachers went to the casino but we should still be careful he nodded after they went inside Ellie said to Daman all right get undressed Damen was surprised huh Ellie opens the door to the bath and said take off your clothes you can't wear them in the bath you know Damien was sweating ah Ellie said the water in the director's bathroom is nice and warm you're as

cold as ice right now you know that they'll have to cut off your hands or your legs if you get frostbite or maybe even both Daman glances down at his hands he rubs his hands but Ellie said that won't work she then said If you don't want me to stay then as she was talking dami and cut her off but my body is repulsive shocked by that Ellie asked repulsive she realized he was a slave before he came to the orphanage so he's probably covered in scars she said I'm sorry Daman said you'll probably be

taken aback if you see my body so Ellie interrupted him by grabbing his both hands and said Damian you're not impulsive there is absolutely nothing that you need to feel guilty or ashamed about she paided him and said let's go I don't know when the director will be back so we should hurry she asked you can wash alone right even if it's a little uncomfortable Damian said yeah Ellie pushed him in and said I'll leave some clothes in front of the door for you bathe yourself in warm water okay I'll go see what can I

find in the warehouse Damen took his clothes off and went inside the water sitting in water he thought to himself it's so warm after a while Ellie peaked inside and asked all done did you enjoy your bath Damia nodded looking at him dressed Ellie said oh your clothes are a little big they were the smallest I could find his clothes were baggy and dragged on the ground she added but you look cute so maybe you should just keep them on she showed a plate and said anyway take a look at what I found I snuck

this out of the warehouse while you were in the bath as Damen was poking the sandwich Ellie asked huh have you never eaten a sandwich before Damian replied and no Ellie fired up after hearing that what those scumbags what did those slave Merchants feed Daman all those years just how was he raised she takes a sigh and said take one sandwiches are super delicious you eat them like this she Stars chomping on one Damen follows her and also starts eating El like like this he nibbled at it Ellie said yeah just like that like a

puppy with chubby cheeks he chewed looking pleased looking at him Ellie thinks I think he likes it even the male lead is a kid huh Ellie notices that his hair are still wet he is a child after all she starts wiping him hair and said let me help you'll catch a cold if you don't dry your hair he leaned in munching on his sandwich Ellie giggles and thinks he's like a puppy and it seems like he's let his guard down a bit while wiping his hair notices by marks near his neck those scars it looks

like he was bitten by some animal Ellie asked how did you get those Damian replied oh these they told me I had these scars when they picked me up that's why my master made me grow my hair long Ellie then remembers the book said Damen had shoulder length hair as a child now I know why she thinks I can't even imagine how cruel this fictional world was to Damen when he was young she smiled and said Daman your bangs are are a little long don't they bother you she brushed through his hair the same could

be said of me I bet things will be even more difficult from now on more so because Damian's beauty isn't good for my heart her heart raced looking at her he's so much prettier than I expected both of them blushed and their hearts raced then Ellie suddenly said oh no Damian I think you might have a fever do you feel sick Damen replied no I'm fine I just feel a little hot he drooped Ellie said I'm glad to hear that she said to herself I hope he didn't catch a cold after that they walked through

the hall and reached the room after going inside Ellie said this is where we'll be sleeping from now on Tommy woke up and asked while rubbing his eyes M Mellie is that you who's that behind you she whispered sure be quiet or you wake Betty up there's no one else here Tommy go back to sleep okay he flopped back down Ellie then noticed the empty beds bes inside Tommy bed she concludes good Carson and his friends aren't here but we should still be careful though she went near her bed and said Damian my bed is

the one near the window and yours is the one closer to the door we're supposed to sleep separately she flopped on her bed and said but this is your first night here so we can share my bed Damian gets shocked as say share your bed come on she patted the bed I'm getting sleepy Damen hesitated at first then he awkwardly gets un bed bed Ellie thinks in her mind is this his first time in a bed it seems like he's not used to it she pulled the covers over him and sniffed what's that smell I've

bathed in the director's bathroom before but there's nothing in there that smells like that she soon realized oh man I'm acting like a creep Ellie then said okay time for bed sleep tight Damian she patted on the cover she then asked you're not going to say good night Daman squirms inside the cover and said oh s sleep tight Ellie Ellie Giggles after hearing that and said good night Daman after she fell asleep Damen Peaks at her and thinks what an unusual person he remember her words he just looks weak that's all he thinks is she

just being nice to me because she feels guilty most people keep their distance from slaves though they're not going to bother you anymore they'll be gone soon use this it will help with the pain you're not repulsive he said to himself no way he recalls her and thinks as his heart raced again but her eyes sparkled so prettily when she said that no I can't get my hopes up I won't let myself and he fell asleep Damian's dream was filled with dark memories what are you doing someone yelled slaves are supposed to entertain their masters

now fight the monster in his dream Damen relived the torment fight the monster his master ordered the Beast roared looming over him you can die for all I care I went to Great Lengths to ensure your Victory don't tell me you're giving up now the voice taunted no one will come to save me Damian thought clenching his fists I'll die if I don't manage to kill this monster pull it together he rose his sword as his was shaking I have to pull it together if I don't Damian a voice called jolting him awake Ellie asked

as Damen was breathing heavily are you okay did you have a nightmare or did you catch a cold Ellie checked his forehead you don't have a fever oh dear you're sweating are you sure you're okay blurry eyed he saw her concern she said you seem sick looking at her dami and thinks Ellie no one has ever worried about me before myself included but she's being so kind to me Ellie stand up and said this won't do she starts walking and said I'll bring you a washcloth Damian stops her and said W wa I'm fine I

don't feel sick at all Ellie said really you should still rest Ellie patted him then Daman thought to himself it's strange when I'm with Ellie I feel warm and tingly as if I've swallowed Sunshine maybe I should have told her I was sick that way Ellie would suddenly Carson came banging the door he shouted hey Ellie you did that on purpose didn't you Carson yelled hey Ellie you did that on purpose didn't you that punk wasn't in the warehouse do you have any idea what the teachers did to me when I got caught it's all

that Brat's fault he pointed Ellie asked why are you blaming Damen Carson was in shock what Ellie said you're the idiot for falling for it she glanced the Bell just rang which means Carson garbs Ellie and shouted Ellie how could you do that to me suddenly the teacher burst opens the door and shouted just what do you think you're doing you still haven't learned your lesson I see trying to prove himself Carson said IAT not what it looks like Ellie started it she called me an idiot it's all her fault looking towards Tommy and Betty

Carson said hey I know all of you heard her too the teacher steps up and said oh please don't be ridiculous she quickly grabbed Carson's hand and said you're always the first to raise your fist that's why none of the Nobles have shown any interest in you Carson in response said you have to believe me it's Ellie's fault that we snuck into the warehouse yesterday the teacher asked Ellie is that true Ellie replied Damian was really sick yesterday he was running a fever so I went to get some medicine for him but Carson kept telling

me that all the teachers had gone to the casino it struck the Tia as Thunder Carson while shocked asked what when did I say that Carson protested Ellie started fake crying she said but I didn't believe him the teachers would never leave all of us children behind to go to the casino isn't that right Ellie sniffled the teacher hesitated and said said WL Ellie thought inwardly now for the Clincher I have to make sure she won't ask me any more questions she continued but I noticed something strange was the door to the warehouse left open

last night by any chance yesterday the director sent me on an errand so I was the last person to lock it the teacher remembers the scene from last night where she opens the door to the warehouse the guy asked are you sure we'll be okay I'm worried we'll get caught the teacher reassured I told you it's fine there's nowhere better for a secret Tris than here while sobbing Ellie continued I'm sure I left the keys in the director's room so there's no reason the door should have been open I must have lost them I'm so

sorry the teacher then said to Ellie I it's okay don't be so hard on yourself no I was careless it's all my fault Ellie sniffled I'll take Carson and explain what happened to the director the teacher freaked out and shouted no as she would get caught she stopped Ellie I mean then she quickly turns towards Carson and said Carson why did you tell such a horrible lie about the teachers something bad could have happened to Damian Because of You Carson protested and no it's not true I never said that Ellie is lying I swear the

teacher stopped dragging Carson away enough excuses follow me the teacher ordered it really wasn't me Carson protested till the end after they left there was a moment of silence in the room then Ellie takes and sigh and thinks Damien should be safe from him at least for now she then took a breath of relief in turns she said Betty and Tommy we better get going before the director scolds us you two should wash up and head downstairs Betty dashes towards Ellie and hugs her she asked what about you Ellie patted her and said I'll be

down in just a moment Betty replied okay Ellie come join us soon after that they left the room then Damian said Ellie last night the teachers definitely left Ellie cut him off by saying I already told you I'll protect you from the others no matter what I wanted to pay them back for what they did to you P protect protect me why Daman asked Ellie then sits on bed and said grown-ups are supposed to take care of children though you probably haven't met a grown-up like that yet Damian I'm sure there's someone out there who

will help you you'll be able to count on them Damen was Dazed looking at her then he spoke if I do then what happens next Ellie answered you'll live happily ever after suddenly Tommy came burst opening the door he said Ellie you have to come down quickly the director's awake Ellie gets worried oh no already Ellie grabbed Damian's hand and starts walking she'll yell at us if we dilly dally for too long following Ellie Damen wondered Ellie Ellie what is this feeling meanwhile Carson slams his hand on table and said with anger that brat will

pay for this he grits his teeth and said I'm stuck in this filthy room all by myself thanks to him he thought to himself why in the world did Ellie take his side he muttered she's sticking up for him like he's her little brother or something what gives he continued to mutter and Mumble clenching his fists he then said while resolved but it won't last long Ellie's affections will be all mine while preparing food Ellie tastes the soup good this ought to be enough she said Damian could you give it a stir with the ladle

he nodded Ellie looks at him and thinks he's been silent for a while now does he still feel conflicted about the lie I told the teacher well he's faced so much violence and abuse until now he's probably not used to telling lies so it makes sense that he's feeling a bit vexed Ellie then asked Damian are you still feeling shaken about what happened earlier huh she continued I mean about the lie I told Damian started oh no that's Ellie interrupted him just don't worry too much about it if you're going to give revenge on someone

you have to do it properly while stirring the food Ellie said I might have lied but that's much better than being used or made a fool of regardless of what your life was like until now you can't let people take advantage of you anymore Damian then she smiles and asks okay hearing that Daman thought to himself no one has ever said anything like that to me before until now I simply survived by obeying my master Ellie I won't let myself be bested by anyone ever again and I'll protect you just like you protected me no

matter what it takes the director woke up feeling headache ug this headache is killing me I didn't even drink that much at the casino last night I need to sober up while staggering and wobbling she reached the kitchen she saw Damien and Ellie preparing food she Saunders what's that slave doing working here she remembers if I hadn't lost that one game no if I just had less to Drink daman's Master said to her I'll write off your debt if you take care of this child until I return the director thought to herself I told the

children that Damien was going to live with us but the truth is that he's just a slave and his master will be back soon enough if Damian's Master finds out that he's been working she won't be pleased she calls Damian but got interrupted by yelling you little brat go back to your room how long have you been skullking around for the teacher shouted Carson responded trying to get free let go I already told you I did nothing wrong the director asked Molen what's going on here she replied hello ma'am the teachers say that Carson has

been causing a lot of trouble lately apparently he even stole a loaf of bread from the warehouse Carson yelled it wasn't me I didn't steal the bread someone gave it to me I swear Carson protested the director shouted enough this isn't the first time you've been caught stealing I can't believe you made a Ruckus over such a small matter the director sighed it seems he needs to be taught another lesson Molen take care of him for me yes ma'am Bine replied Carson thought inwardly no not like this I won't go down alone he shouted Damen

came with me but he got away with it Carson protested desperately Damian with Carson Ellie defended that's not true Damien didn't go to the warehouse last night he was sick so he stayed in the room the whole night with me Carson again shouted hey Ellie why do you keep lying you're the one that told me to go to the warehouse Carson exclaimed Ellie said firmly director you know how Carson is he's always bullying the other kids here what are you talking about Carson shouted looking at Ellie director remembers when Ellie came back Ellie asked why

do I have to go back to the orphanage the director said with an annoyed face you really don't know it's because of your sleazy mother I mean really you've been returned to the orphanage over and over I'm getting tired of having to pick you up director thought to herself she's never made as much as a peep since then but now she's defending Damian Damian are you okay Ellie asked I'm fine Daman replied looking at them director thought something is fishy Carson again shouted you have to believe me director I'm begging you Ellie's lying I didn't

steal the loaf of bread I swear Carson pleaded the director said ug you're really getting on my nerves you handle this Meen and don't let the new kid work yes ma'am Bine replied TI TSK little imps the director muttered as she clicked her tongue and walked away Ellie instructed go wait in the dining hall Daman Damen asked what about you Ellie replied I have to stay here and work Ellie patted his head and said let's finish up we're nearly done cooking I'll be there as soon as I can the reason the director forbade Damian from

working wasn't preferential treatment it was because of his master but the other children don't know that they'll just think it's unfair nothing good comes from standing out Ellie asked him you'll wait for me right Daman Damen gripped her clothes Molen then said follow me Ian they turned and stepped into the Hall they left Tommy asked do you think they'll get punished dot Betty said that teachers hits really hurt they must be scared the last time she hit me Ellie looks towards them and thinks I'm glad the other kids don't see what's really going on the

truth is that the director just doesn't want him to do chores all right I'll go get Damian after I finish up here Daman was sitting in a corner in the hall he thinks to himself I hate being alone but I I don't want to make Ellie dislike me suddenly he heard a voice you waited for me right let's eat together follow me Damian asked are you all done with your work Ellie replied yeah then can I sit next to you Damien asked instantly feeling better as he waddled over Ellie replied of course we made something

delicious for everyone today wait I always sit on Ellie's right Tommy popped up looking at him Ellie observed Tommy it seems like he's in Better Spirits now that he doesn't have to worry about Carson Damian got fired up who does he think he is Ellie said you can sit somewhere else for a day right Damian is new to the orphanage after all Molen suggested but I don't want to Tommy protested Ellie then said Tommy did you know I heard that you can become popular if you know how to share are really Tommy's eyes sparkled okay

then I'll let it slide just for today because I'm going to be popular Tom declared Ellie thought Tommy is still just a kid Damian you can sit here she said okay Damen replied as Tommy started chewing on his food Tommy thought observing Damian he seems like a sweet kid W Betty suddenly cried jolting everyone Betty what's wrong while wailing Betty said W I dropped my doll into the soup she sobbed the doll got soggy Ellie instructed Damian Tommy you stay here and eat I'll be be back in a moment Ellie patted Betty and said it's

okay Betty your doll got a little damp that's all we just have to clean the part that got wet Ellie reassured her as she creaked open the door I'll clean your doll up for you after Ellie left with Betty Damian looked around Tommy clears his throat and turns towards Damian he said nice to meet you it seems like you and Ellie are close so maybe you and I can spend some time together too Daman seemed uninterested he turns his head away while feeling awkward Tommy scratches his cheek and said I mean uh I'm friends with

Ellie too so we can all play together Damen asked friends Tommy said while smiling yeah Ellie and I are best friends Damian then glared at Tommy Tommy flinches seeing him glare and said I mean suddenly Ellie came holding Betty Ellie asked Damian are you enjoying your meal Daman nodded yes he continued to eat slurping and chewing Tommy was surprised by Sudden Change of his attitude Ellie asked him is something wrong Tommy uh no it's nothing Tommy replied flinching he laughs to shake it off while sweating he thought to himself he's not the innocent mild manard

boy I thought he was he's a coldblooded beast Ellie watch out he's deceiving you later at night Ellie called out Damian are you done washing up yeah he replied rubbing his face dry Ellie couldn't could help but notice how soft his cheeks looked wow his cheeks looked so soft she thought almost wanting to pinch them so squishy and soft she thought to herself I want to poke his cheeks but I shouldn't not when he's just started opening up to me Ellie said you must feel refreshed after your shower come here Daman obediently stepped closer she

gently tapped his shoulder and ruffled his hair wiping away any lingering water droplets she thought he's even prettier up close his long hair must get in the way I'd offer to cut it but then some nobleman might see his face and take him away I can't let that happen Duke shuts has to be the one who adopts him I have to hide his good looks until then asterisk then Ellie asked shall we head to bed she opens the door quietly and went inside you can sleep in your bed tonight Ellie told him as she stepped

away by myself Daman asked looking uncertain she inquired yep by yourself is something wrong DT noticing his silent droop Ellie thinks is there something he wants to say she wondered as he turned and clambered into his bed Damen flopped down looking tired from the day Ellie thought a lot happened today I guess he's tired after getting on her bed she whispered Damian good night and sweet dreams Daman jolted hearing that sweet dreams Ellie he replied softly Ellie gets surprised by his reply it was the first time he had ever said her name name and Ellie

felt her heart swell with Elation I can't believe how happy hearing that one word made me feel thanks Daman she whispered to him in the middle of the night Ellie tossed and turned in her bed then realized she had to use the bathroom she quietly got up but noticed Damian's bed was empty huh where did Damen go Betty also woke up she said well she squeezed her doll and worriedly said Carson Carson took him just then her heart sank she rushed to find them her steps urgent when she spotted them meanwhile Carson sneered and threw

Damen to the ground do you have any idea what you put me through Carson shouted Damien lay there blood dripping from his nose Carson's face Twisted with contempt don't get full of yourself just because Ellie has been nice to you you mean nothing to her Damen G at him he laughed mocking Damian ha you think glaring at me will change anything what are you going to do about it huh Damen suddenly remembers Ellie's word Damian you can't let epipal take advantage of you anymore he gets ready to Lunge on Carson but Carson words shook him

Ellie is just soft on Good for Nothing weaklings Like You Damian lay there Frozen as Carson's words cut deeper than any bruise you're just one of many that's the only reason she took care of you it's not like you're special or anything Daman then remembers Ellie saying he just looks weak that's all then he thought to himself I had heard harsh and abusive words countless times when I was a slave words like worthless and stupid were hurled at me with such regularity that they became as familiar to me as the physical violence I endured I

grew used to it all the Relentless insults and the pain but then when Carson said that I meant nothing to Ellie something felt different his words struck deeper than before when he said you'll never be anything but a slave it felt as though I was sinking swallowed up by the currents of a deep dark river like ash Swept Away In The Wind my heart sank carrying with it the hope I had dared to hold Carson continued sneering you should know your place how dare a slave be so arrogant he tapped Damien's head tauntingly you think

we're equals just because we're both at the orphanage you're mistaken Carson dragged him over to a lake why don't you cool your head in the water for a bit Carson released him to fall in water as he was falling Ellie Damen whispered weakly reaching out then suddenly Ellie grabs Damen and saves him from falling in water Carson and others were shocked after seeing Ellie Carson hesitatingly calls L Ellie Ellie was breathing heavily as she holds Damian with both of her hands she said with serious Expressions hey what do you think you're doing a while ago

as Ellie was running towards the lake she thought to herself Carson always threw kids he didn't like into the lake Damian's in danger that Lake will be freezing now that it's winter she prayed Daman please be safe holding Daman Ellie said are you crazy she flinched as she saw Carson who looked back at her with a scowl I knew you were up to no good but what the hell do you think you're doing Carson asked while surprised what she thought to himself how could she do this to me he thought back on how she refused

to join them when they bullied that kid he wondered why is she being so nice to that brat what makes him so special Ellie ignored him taking daman's arm gently let's head back I'll patch you up she murmured Carson muttered in Anger there was a reason why I never liked that brat from the start Carson grits his teeth in anger and Ellie notices Carson suddenly lunged forward his face Twisted in Rage he was about to hit Damian it's your fault everything's been ruined why did it have to be you Ellie saw him coming and managed

to dodge there was a sudden Splash as Carson slipped and fell into the freezing Lake Carson one of his friends yelled are you okay can you climb up but the icy water shocked him and he struggled to pull himself out meanwhile Ellie focused on Damian making sure he was safe she yelled at Carson you went too far this time you're such a horrible person dot she turned to Damian are you all right she asked he muttered yeah they stood up and started walking as there was no point trying to reason with them they left Carson

and his friends there and dashes away as they were walking back Damian thought to himself that's the first time I've seen her get angry why is she so mad was she mad because he was weak or just because he was a burden Damen left her hand and Ellie turned to see him Ellie glanced over at him Damen why didn't you fight back why didn't you resist seeing her worried Damien realized I was right she's mad because of me I knew it he whispered do you pity me is that why you're taking care of me Ellie

was shocked what are you talking about Damen continued if that's why you're being nice to me then you can just let me be I'm used to this sort to treatment anyway Ellie grabbed him and shouted what are you talking about you thought I pitted you this whole time she was upset I'm sorry if I made you feel that way I'm sorry I said you looked weak I should have apologized back then she continued I don't think you're weak I think you're stronger than anyone else out there that's the truth I hope you'll believe me Damen

said while surprised that that's not really what I wanted to hear he thought I was so sure that she was going to say I'm pitiful and pathetic but she said I'm strong that can't be right not me she helped you out because she felt bad for you that's not a word anyone would use to describe me Ellie tears starts falling from daman's face Ellie gasped thinking he see crying did I say something wrong Damien said while sniffling I I thought that I was annoying you Ellie asked huh why why Damian replied I don't know as

he was rubbing his eyes Ellie said your eyes will sting if you keep rubbing them like that look at me ah don't cry your beautiful face is all swollen Damian a guy asked D does that mean sniffle you don't hate me Ellie replied why would I hate you Damian said but you avoided eye contact with me Ellie was fber gasted when me avoid I contact with you Damian said you said that something was bad for your heart remember Ellie snapped she said I can explain Ellie turned away clearing her throat I didn't avoid eye contact

because I hate you there's another reason Daman again starts sobbing I knew it Ellie you think I'm while in panic Ellie said I won't do it again DEA asked are really Ellie said yes Pinky Promise she squeezed his hand you have my word you trust me now right yeah he sniffled Ellie thought few he stopped crying Damian said from now on I'm going to hold your hand I want to sit next to you when we eat too Ellie laughs and said okay we can hold hands and eat together but I want you to promise me

something Damian she squeezed his hand again if someone tries to hurt you you need to defend yourself don't let anyone treat you like you're inferior to them and if something bothers you ask about it right away don't just suffer in silence okay Pinky Promise pinky promis then Ellie asked are you ready to head back we should get those injuries treated on the way back Damian thought Ellie Ellie was telling the truth Ellie showed me what true happiness felt like he remembers her words I'm sure there's someone out there who will help you you'll be able

to count on them you'll live happily ever after I feel so much joy even though I'm crying if this emotion isn't happiness I don't know what is that's why let me be a little greedy meanwhile the Duke was searching for Damian after he stroked down his enemies he said it looks like the information was false what a waste of time let's go Auntie let's move on to the next region after they reached back Ellie applied ointment to his injuries all done now let's sleep Ellie asked hm what's wrong Damen asked can I sleep with you

Ellie asked with me Damian said I keep having these scary nightmares Ellie said our beds are small so it'll be uncomfortable Damen sniffles and asked so I can't Ellie said I suppose it's fine it's not a difficult request Ellie asked Damian do you want to sleep on this side he replied yeah as he gets in the cover he said lie down Ellie Ellie Smiles while patting him haha okay she thought to herself I think he's feeling better now even though I'm just an extra in his story I'm glad that I could help him she said

it feels just like we're siblings don't you agree Daman Daman turns her hand away and said I'm not your little brother Ellie said but Damian you're 11 and I'm 13 years old Damien was looking sad and he pouted Ellie thinks oh no is he mad it's no surprise even though he's young he's undeniably the male lead of this story I shouldn't treat him like a kid she said I was just joking Daman don't be offended to be honest I just wanted to say that sleeping next to you is nice and warm Damen blushed and said

oh I think so too Ellie giggles and thinks he's so cute she then said and she paided sleep tight it's getting late sweet dreams Daman Daman said you too Ellie in his dream both Damen and Ellie looked happy Ellie said Damen look you're so pretty Damen he replied thank you Ellie you've made me so happy the next day Ellie said I was wondering why you seem to be having such nice dreams Damian do you feel sick you're feverish while coughing he said no I'm not sick Ellie said yeah right your voice gives it away be

honest when did you start feeling sick he replied since last night Ellie asked in shock what then why didn't you say anything to me she thought I can't believe I got a good night's sleep while he was sick God I'm so dumb she said to Tommy who was holding the thermometer Tommy how's his temperature he checked he's got a high fever he should stay in bed for a few days Ellie said you heard him right you need to stay in bed today Tommy was wondering I can't believe he's speaking normally with such a high fever

Daman asked what about you Ellie Ellie replied I have to work the director will yell at me if I don't this news strike him like thunder Ellie's going to leave me again Ellie said I work quickly I'll be back before you know it I'll also make some soup you just need to close your eyes and count to 100 he said all right come quickly okay Ellie said of course good boy I'll be back soon as she was leaving she said I'll leave him to You Tommy after he left Tommy was worried this kid really is

a Wy one while wiping the shelves Ellie thinks I can't take any medicine until the director leaves it looks like she has no plans to go though it seems like she's in a bad mood today too director crumpled a piece of paper and said Ellie can't you clean any faster she replied yes ma'am she started dusting the shelves and closet faster thinking if I mess up she'll take it out on me I should just start cleaning the outside first director takes a sigh and said to herself we have so many kids here and yet the

orphanages finances are in shambles she looked at the closet and said should I sell a Mana Stone to pay off the debt Mana stones are minerals made of condensed Mana as such they allow people without any Mana to use magic however Mana stones are very rare and they can only be created with the help of a mage that is why they are bought and sold at very high prices she picks up a stone and thinks it was hard enough to get my hands on these Stones I can't just sell them she looks at Ellie from

window and thinks if she wasn't the daughter of a thief I would be able to fetch a high price for her and use the money to pay off my debt suddenly Molen came and said director it's just like you predicted because of Duke shoots the number of nobles who want to adopt orphans has plummeted the director puts the stone back that won't do when Duke shuts began paying visits to those that had adopted children you said your adopted child had black hair yes hm he doesn't have blue eyes fewer and fewer Nobles adopted children because

they were afraid of the Duke confronting them the director asked Molen you spread the word right she replied yes I went around and told people that the son of the late Duke cider is here director smirk and said good work Molen said director what will we do if someone finds out that it's a lie this is Duke shs we're dealing with after all director said don't say such ridiculous nonsense it's not like Duke schutz has ever seen the child in person there's no way he'll be able to tell between a real and a fake so

just do as I say Molen said as you wish Ellie was listening to their conversation out inside the room she thought to herself he's coming Duke schutz will be here to save Damian meanwhile the Duke was still searching for Damian he visited in another Noble house he said how pathetic did you really think you could bring me down with Mir herbs the noble said while trembling F forgive us we know we've committed an unforgivable sin please please spare us just this once we had no idea you were Duke shuts we swear please forgive us the

Duke puts his sword to her neck the Duke's attendant said Your Grace you ought to at least hear them out you didn't come here to slaughter them after all the Duke said they've committed a sin worthy of death and if you consider my personality I fear I will be unable to Simply let this go if you value your lives then answer me where is the child the noble woman was shaking and trembling she thought I had no idea that slave was really the son of Duke cider she said th the child is that an orphanage

the Duke asked an orphanage she replied why yes he's at an orphanage that one of my friends runs I just thought that it would be better for a child of his age to stay in an orphanage than somewhere as rough as here she gulped as she said that the Duke raised his sword in the air and said it seems you truly are begging me to kill you his attendant said Your Grace he stopped and asked what is it he rummaged through his robe and said I don't think they're lying at least not entirely I received

a letter A few days ago he showed the letter and said it claimed that the child we are searching for is at the Saint orphanage it's not far from here the Duke asked why am I only hearing of this now I've already ransacked every orphanage in the Empire his attendant said it's an orphanage and name only it's a place where they bring in orphans and use them to make a profit the children there are well flying off the shelves if you will I had planned to tell you after I received confirmation as he was talking

the Duke puts his sword to his neck and said I want to kill you right here and now the attendant said my apologies Your Grace the Duke asked the noble did you send the child to the Saint orphanage he replied yes that's right it was the S Saint orphanage the Duke said I will decide how to punish you later he ordered send a letter to the orphanage and let them know that we are coming to pay a visit the attendant said yes your grace the Duke then turns towards the noble and said wait we have

to deal with those two first they pleaded for Mercy but the nobles were dragged away wh what your grace please wait your grace meanwhile the director slams the table and shouted things are hard enough as it is and now I have to deal with these sick brats what made them think they'd be fine after soaking in a freezing Lake Molen and the teacher jolted watching the director the director frits her teeth and thinks Duke should will be here soon but there's no way I can let him see the children that are dying first I'll give

them some cheap medicine and hope they look healthy enough to show the Duke that means I'll have to sell one of my Mana Stones she opens the closet and said in shock wh what happened it can't be as the Mana Stone she decided to sell wasn't there while squeezing the wet cloth Ellie thinks his fever seems really high she said the face cloth I gave you is warm now I'll go soak it in cold water Damien said Ellie don't go I don't want to be alone he was shacking Ellie said but your fever is really

high he said still as he doesn't want her to leave after a few moments as she was holding his hand she noticed I think he fell asleep again I should be able to sneak away for a moment I thought he was feeling a little better thanks to the heat of the Mana Stone I stole but I didn't realize how high his fever was stroking his hair Ellie thinks Carson isn't feeling well either but Damian is worse because he was weaker from the start not that I care how Carson is doing as she rubs his face

Damien said that feels nice her heart Reed looking at his pretty face I can't believe anyone would hurt such a sweet innocent child Damian's so adorable that I can't take it after he fell asleep Ellie left the room thinking I better make it quick maybe I can find something light for him to eat too as she was leaving the director saw her and asked from behind just what what do you think you're doing Ellie jolted hearing that the director asked again I said what are you doing Ellie gulped thinking what's the director doing here she

quickly turns and said Damian's sick so I'm taking care of him the water got cold so I was going to get more the director asked is that so she picks out the Mana Stone from Ellie's pocket and said I suppose you took this for Damian too Ellie thinks in her mind I didn't think she noticed that the stone in the corner was gone tilts her head and said trying to feain ignorance I'm not sure what you're talking about Carson took that so I the director Cut Her Off saying you just got caught stealing and you're

still so Brazen you take after your mother Ellie jolted and asked what does my mother have to do with anything the director started poking her head sarcastically saying I should have known I went easy on you because I thought you were just trying to keep your head down I suppose that's how my kindness is repaid eh with theft she smirked and said I might as well take this opportunity to correct that bad habit of yours she raised her hand to slap her suddenly Damian came in front of her Ellie was shocked D Damian Damian said

don't touch her if you hit Ellie I'll make you pay the director flinched hearing that she said W what why are you budding in the director suddenly remembers his master's word that child tends to hold grudges once he's upset about something he'll attack indiscriminately the D director said you little brat as he was talking Molen came dashing she calls director she saidwe just received a letter Duke schutz will be visiting the orphanage shortly the director was shocked what so soon she ordered start cleaning at once make sure the children change into nicer clothes too bring

all the children with black hair and blue eyes to my office Molen replied yes ma'am the director turns and said uh I'm not ready yet I'll deal with you too later we'll figure out who's to blame then Damen was still glaring at her Ellie stopped the director as she was about to walk away and asked what about Damian the director asked what about him she said he has black hair and blue eyes too she said you want me to show him to Duke schitz in that state that would be a disgrace Ellie said but Damen

stumbled and fell Ellie caught her from falling to the ground the director smirks and said a child as sick as that needs rest before anything else good luck nursing him back to health the director left mocking her Damen calls Ellie she said while patting him it'll be okay Daman I'll make sure you're reunited with your family the Duke shutz came to the orphanage the servant bowed and said welcome your grace the Duke observed this orphanage is far from the city and completely secluded it would be difficult to get here without horses and a carriage they

could assert that it's a good environment for children but he asked where is the director she should have responded to my letter by now Molen spoke about that we received the news of your visit not long ago we were slightly late in telling the director she's coming now it'll just be a moment the Duke asked and the child the teacher spoke oh the child about that Moline thought to herself the director swore us to secrecy so we can't just tell him the truth the Duke shows this approval and thinks what a mess he then said

never mind I'll find him myself the servant gasped why your grace as the Duke walked in the hall he said I can't believe how cold it is here that's not good for young children his attendant said I was thinking the same thing as the Duke was about to turn from corner he said dispose of them probably if they were lying about the C to child his attendant said yes your grace Ellie bumped into him at the corner and fell to the floor Boe that hurt the Duke knelt and said my apologies can you stand Ellie

beamed with light and said while smiling thank you The Duke saw bright green eyes she said it was hard to stand up as she stood up she asked who are you mister his attendant was shocked after hearing that and thinks I suppose she doesn't know who his grace is he spoke hey kiddo Weir Ellie interrupted him saying are you here to adopt a child by any chance the Duke was surprised and said yes that is so Ellie claps her hand and said ah I see the children are in the director's room the Duke asked the

director she said yes you wanted a child with black hair and blue eyes right all five of them are there the Duke then said I suppose that's where the director is too his attendant said she was hiding from us to buy time what do you think she's playing at your grace the Duke muttered I'm not sure but knowing this has just put me in a foul mood thank you for telling us Ellie bowed and said don't mention it goodbye then the Duke said we should get going too the attendant said yes your grace he looks

towards Ellie and thinks what an odd child she's the first person to face his grace without crying no wait there was someone else too someone who didn't so much as blink when they looked at his grace but that was a long time ago as they reached the director's room she greeted them welcome Your Grace thank you for visiting our humble orphanage the Duke asked these are the children then the director said these are all the children with black hair and blue eyes I believe the child you are searching for is among them the children started

crying after seeing the Duke the director started calming them down oh my what's wrong with the children they don't usually cry like this the Duke pulls out a Mana Stone thinking Duke cider infused his son's Mana into this Stone so it should react when he's near there was no response from the manastone he thought this isn't the place the director asked what do you think your grace the Duke said I think she was lying Auntie chill her he complied yes your grace the director was in shock what your grace what do you mean his attendant

drags her as she begged why your grace please spare me I promise the child you're looking for is among these four right here the Duke noticed that there were four children here four that's not what the child I ran into said he remembered her words you wanted a child with black hair and blue eyes right all five of them are there he glares at the director and said one is missing the director asked what what are you talking about the Duke said don't feain ignorance he pulls out his sword and was about to strike near

her neck he asked again where is he where is the child you hid from me if you dare lie to me you will die where you stand meanwhile Ellie was checking up on Damian she noticed judging by how noisy it is out there Duke shutz must be headed here even though I wanted the events from the story to come true I'm still a little sad but this is best for Daman she squeezed his hand and said it won't hurt anymore Damian Damien while surprised asked what do you mean Ellie she said I promised remember I

promised I would help you reunite with your family as she was speaking the Duke burst opens the door Daman was in surprise me family him the Duke's attendant Molen and the teacher were standing outside the room as the Duke enters Andy thinks I can't believe he's acting so emotional I haven't seen him like this since his wife passed away I didn't think I'd ever see him behave like this again as the Duke walks close to the bed he saw Damian and thought I had heard he was a young boy but he's quite scrawny and that's

the girl I ran into earlier seeing him come close Damian quickly stands up and blocks him by standing in in front of Ellie he was staggering Ellie said Damian you shouldn't be standing Damen spoke don't you dare look at Ellie like that I don't care who you are I'll make you pay if you hurt her he was breathing heavily looking at him the Duke thinks he's acting pretty Fierce for such a pipsqueak the Duke smirks and said and just who do you think you could protect when you can't even stand straight he then pulls out

the Mana Stone and it started shining brightly blue light illuminated the room the Duke thinks to him self it's him my friend's son as Damen absorbed the light he staggers and fell to the ground Ellie caught him and shouted Damen Daman wake up the Duke also kneels and said there's no need to fret he just reabsorbed the Mana that was taken from him it will help him build up strength he handed the Mana Stone to Damien as he was unconscious Ellie noticed his fever really did go down the Duke then spoke to the servants I

believe I found the child I'd appreciate if you could tell me why he looks so unwell if I find your explanation unsatisfactory then I'll cut your tongues off and kill you this instant the teacher and Molen were trembling with fear they quickly ran saying W will gather the adoption documents and summon the director looking at the Duke Ellie recalled he's exactly as the book described a man domineering Beyond Compare able to intimidate those around him with ease it really is Duke shits then Andy spoke as he gets close I already told you your grace you're

more frightening than a phantom you could try saying that with a softer expression did you see how the teachers all ran off that's why Duke cider's son fainted too the Duke said I think he was just feeling sick Andy said yeah right still you have a rough countenance and a scary figure to boot I doubt the young Lord would be thrilled at the prospect of adoption then the Duke asked so is the child asleep and he asked what the Duke lifts a P Damian from floor and said you can't just leave a sick child on

the floor go fetch me a face cloth Auntie Andy rushed to get the wet cloth Ellie then said allow me to handle the rest Duke then stood up and spoke you acted as though you knew I was searching for this child but this is the first time I've ever been to this region how did you know Ellie froze as she heard that she thinks in her mind he's testing me I have to answer carefully if I mess up then I could end up wandering the streets just just like Ellie did in the story that's no

reason to lie though then there's only one thing I can tell him she spoke yes I knew I heard from the director she told me that I should let it slip to you that children with black hair and blue eyes were here the Duke also sits on the bed and said I suppose that's why you went out of your way to mention that there were five children hm Ellie was speechless for a moment she thinks he'll suspect me if he finds out I approached him on purpose but he'll see through any lie I tell too

she then said yes I figured that Damen could be the child you were searching for he has black hair and blue eyes after all the Duke further asked in that case why didn't you leave me straight to him she replied I was hoping youd take a close look at the rest of the orphanage too I wanted you to see what things were like here while they were talking Auntie came and said I brought a cloth Your Grace Ellie continued you may have noticed but the teachers don't take care of us we do all of the

work but the teachers leave us at night to go to the casino so they can have fun and gamble I hope that you could see with your own eyes how dire our situation is the Duke saw someone else in Ellie the Duke then asked your name what's your name she said it's Ellie he asked again and this child she replied that's Damian he said I see the director came looking Haggard she said why your grace I heard you were looking for me the director thought to herself that little brat didn't snitch did she she'll pay

for it if she did the Duke then spoke I'm going to adopt this boy the director asked what the Duke added looking at Ellie and I'll take the girl next to him to the Duke said I'll take the girl next to him too Andy asked are you adopting her as well he replied no she will be my daughter-in-law Ellie thought to herself daughter-in-law Damian is supposed to end up with ashel the female lead but what she looked towards Daman and he called for her in his sleep Ellie don't go she remembers his word I'm okay

it doesn't hurt at all Ellie are you just being nice to me because you pity me he squeezed her hand in his sleep Ellie thinks in her mind it hasn't been long but I already feel attached to Damian to be honest it makes me happy to think we won't have to part ways suddenly the director came shouting wait you can't take her your grace you can't bring that lowly brat with you she pointed you want to take her as your daughter-in-law do you have any idea who that brat is her mother was the thief who

stole from count Lal she's the daughter of a criminal as she was pointing she was thinking it's all over if Duke shuts adopts her I have to stop this no matter what it takes Ellie frowned standing there there was once a thief whose daring Endeavors shook the Empire when the empire was going through the turbulence of War One Thief managed to get past the Imperial palace's Security and quietly made made off with the emperor's most precious treasure the emperor conducted a large scale Manhunt to track down the thief but he was never able to find

her sometime later she was captured at count leal's residence Auntie recalled I heard she was hanged on site I never knew that she had a daughter then the director requested please your grace I'm begging you to reconsider taking such a child into your home would only taint your reputation the Duke said enough how long do I have to stand here and listen to this nonsense the director repeated nonsense the Duke said how long do I have to tolerate that despicable woman Auntie take her away he complied yes your grace the director groaned in horror as

her last attempt failed then the Duke kneeled and asked I'm leaving the decision to you will you come with me Ellie spoke I have just one condition dismiss all the teachers that work here hearing that the director of The Orphanage shouted you little what are you talking about but Auntie was restrained her and he was amazed wow she was bold enough to propose her own terms to his grace this child is something else Ellie continued even if Damian and I leave with you the other children here will continue to suffer these teachers need to be

sacked as punishment for how they treated us please help turn this place into an upstanding orphanage that way the other children won't be treated like products to be bought and sold the Duke accepted very well he stands up and said Auntie see to it that these teachers are stripped of their credentials Andy bowed and said yes your grace the director gets shocked what you can't do this your grace as she was saying that Auntie dragged her away that girl is more cunning than she looks you can't trust her your grace as the door shuts the

director bangs on the door shouting you Wicked Child you'll pay for this a moment later there was silence in the room Ellie was bewildered I had no idea he would act so quickly then the Duke began be orphanage will be different from now on just as you wanted so let me ask you again will you come with me he extends his hand as he said that Ellie wondered what's his aim why does he want to take me with him I don't know what the reason is but I'm glad everything worked out if I had left

Daman with him while he was like this I would have felt uneasy I'll stay by daman's side until he meets the female lead and falls in love with her she clasped his hands saying yes I'll come with you later as the carriages were ready to depart the Duke instructed antie banish the director and all the teachers to the location on this map people from shs will run the orphanage until the newly appointed director arrives I'll see to it that this place also gets enough teachers hearing that Ellie bowed and said Bank you she looked back

at the orphanage thinking the children here will finally be able to live comfortably I'm so relieved looking at her the Duke thinks how odd everything went far too smoothly for any of this to be a mere coincidence at first I thought she was one of the emperor spies he recalled Ellie saying I heard from the director she told me that I should let it slip to you that children with black hair and blue eyes were here he thinks but then why did she offer her own conditions instead of immediately agreeing to come with me her

voice echoes in his memory I have just one condition on top of that she seemed genuinely happy that the orphanage would change well I'm hardly one to talk I did accept her absurd condition after all suddenly he remembered I can solve the problem troubling you your grace I have but one condition please marry me he felt a throbbing pain at the thought suddenly Betty came rushing Ellie she hugged Ellie and sniffled I won't see you again after you leave will I the other kids that left never came back Ellie assured her don't worry I'll come

back to visit other children also came calling her Ellie Ellie Betty asked really can you promise that you'll be back Ellie replied yes I promise after that the Duke stands besides a tree to smoke suddenly he said don't bother glaring at me like that your looks can't kill maybe you'd be more threatening with a sword hearing that Damien jolted and appeared from behind a tree Damian's voice trembled I I don't understand why did you adopt me and why are you taking Ellie what are you trying to do Duke replied I'll see to it that you're

trained in rhetoric once we returned to the duche Damian said answer me why are you taking me and Ellie the Duke said I'm not taking you I'm merely returning you to where you belong you will understand soon enough you will understand that which was meant to be yours right now you're nothing more than a feral animal but once you return to your rightful place I suspect you will look at the world differently with greater strength and resolve at the very least you'll be able to protect Those whom you seek to protect after hearing that Damen

clenches his fist thinking grown-ups are even scarier and harder to trust than children I don't want to go with him but if this man is anything like my former Master then there's no doubt Ellie would have been in danger while I was unconscious in the end I was too weak to protect her a while ago Ellie said you have to go Damian you have to return to where you belong he asked what about you Ellie you're not coming with me she replied of course I will I promised I'd stay by your side remember he remembered

at the very least you'll be able to protect Those whom you seek to protect he said don't don't force Ellie to work for you you can't Duke questioned what makes you think I'd make such a small child work don't worry your little head with that nonsense Damien glares at him I'll make you pay if you ever mistreat her saying that he turns and started walking then the Duke said to himself he's just like his father he didn't even need a Mana Stone to prove his identity Duke cider was so soft and affectionate with his wife

but his disposition would change the moment he was in the presence of other others that child's every action betrays the fact that he's a cider through and through later as the carriage was moving lots of crows were cing Ellie was dozing off with Damen alongside her she woke up and yawned wondering when did I nod off oh daman's asleep too it seems like he feels better now suddenly voice of a crow startled her she looked outside the window and lots of crows were sitting on trees calling she thinks are we in the north now this

is so spooky I thought we were in the middle of of a battlefield this is worse than I imagined I guess it's true that this territory is crawling with monsters she murmured no I have to put on a brave face suddenly a crow called straight to her face she flinched seeing the crow and wondered did that Crow understand what I just said it was definitely staring at me no that's impossible later the servant informed we've arrived looking at the castle Ellie was amazed wo it's huge and magnificent she noticed he there are crows here too

she shows disgust seeing that Damian asked what's wrong Ellie she replied nothing as they went inside they were welcomed by servants Welcome Back Your Grace we received word that you arrived with Lord Damian the Duke went past them and said I see suddenly he remembered and said there's one detail that I forgot to include in the message fron asked and that would be he replied I brought along another child to raise as my future daughter-in-law at first the attendant said I see a daughter-in-law then he looked towards Ellie and then again looked towards the Duke

in confusion I beg your pardon Ellie said inwardly a detail that seems like an understatement I was at a loss for words when I first heard him say that too fron was speechless and was expecting an explanation but the Duke Shrugged it off well that's just how it turned out fron sighed you should have stopped his grace sir atie seeing that Ellie thought it's not like I expected them to welcome me with open arms she recalled her past one of her adoptive mothers said you can call me mother then again she slapped her saying you're

the daughter of a thief why didn't you say anything have you no shame Ellie said to herself I was younger back then I used to feel excited to meet my new family every time I was an utter fool but not anymore all I want now is to prepare for the future I don't need a warm accepting family that's why I feel confident that I'll be able to shrug off whatever anyone might say the Tad added we don't have a suitable maid to serve the young lady you should have sent word in advance hearing that Ellie

flinched young lady a maid she said excuse me I'll be fine on my own I won't make a fuss I don't need anyone else's help back at the orphanage I did all kinds of chores alone she thinks in her mind I don't want them to think I'm some annoying needy kid the Duke called France he bowed and said don't worry your grace I'll see to it that this is issue is dealt with immediately then a maid came and whispered to Auntie after that he went to Duke and said Your Grace your vassals and distant relatives

are waiting for you The Duke asked what did rumors spread in my absence Andy replied yes it seems so the Duke said I suppose it makes sense that this news would attract so many Busy Bodies the Duke was exping something like this he said tell them I'll see them after I rest he instructed France please show the children to their rooms he replied understood your grace then he turned to the kids and said please come this way while following France Ellie thinks in her mind vassals and distant relatives all of these people could pose a

threat to Damian Duke shuts may have adopted Daman but it will be a long time before they fully realized the strength of their bond so that means Damian's trials and tribulations have only just begun she resolved I won't let anything bad happen to him not again during the meeting one of the vassals slam on table and shouted this is ridiculous he says he's found the child there's no way the cider child could still be alive another said but his grace said that he saw him with his own two eyes one replied it could be some

kind of trick such a thing could be possible with a smuggled man of stone no house cider's vassals and distant relatives were eyeing a chance to get their hands on the merchant Guild again on top of that the CER child has been taken in by Duke shutz do you know who has been running that Merchant Guild for no less than 11 years it's us members of house shoots does it make any sense to allow things to return to how they used to be all for some brat who was brought from God knows where he sprung

up saying we have to do something other replied of course we agree with you my lord heads nodded in unison but who is formidable enough to go up against Duke shz if we could have changed his mind we would have already done so Viscount corbino clenches his fist in Anger thinking these seile bastards don't know what's good for them everything is about to go up in smoke and that's all they have to say for themselves suddenly the door opened and a voice spread across what's all this blathering about my ears were hurting from the noise

the Duke came and sits in chair Viscount greeted him nervously good day your grace the Duke said I suspected you'd be running your mouths so I thought it best to pay you a visit in person the Duke glares at them all of them doesn't speak a word the Duke continued allow me to speak frankly what you've heard is true I have found Duke cider's son one of the Nobles said ha well this certainly is a cause for celebration what is the child's name The Duke said Damian then the noble said I see that is a

noble name indeed in that case that makes him the rightful head of house cider the room fell silent those present exchanged uneasy glances after hearing that the Duke thought bitterly how Shameless of them to pit me and Damian against the each other if that young pint-sized child ever dreamed of carrying on The Cider family name they wouldn't hesitate to tear him to shreds of course the same could be said of the vassals and various relatives of The Cider family two he was tapping on table thinking then he said oh it seems Damen has made a

very bright friend she looked like she could be of some use to our family so I brought her as well I will instruct them so that they may be my official successors hearing that Viscount gets shocked your grace what are you The Duke added I will spare nothing to ensure that those children are able to carry on the CER name in all its Glory hearing that the vassals jumps in protest one said what are you talking about the other argued this is ridiculous Your Grace why would we do such a thing the Duke's voice cut

through the tension enough I will adopt Daman and have the girls stay under my care when the time comes I will see that they marry one another everyone was shocked to hear marriage gasps filled the room no matter how young someone may be they are recognized as an official member of the family when they complete their betral rights that means if Duke shoots marries off Damian to a child he has selected he officially seeds power over the cider Merchant Guild once the vassals heard that Duke schz had found Duke Clyde's son they were probably planning

to have him cast out or have their daughters marry him but Duke schz had other plans then the Duke said I'm asking for your blessing the Duke said coldly you have all sworn your lives and loyalty to my Noble family after all I'm sure I can count on you to accept my decision the room was silent fists clenched in frustration this is outrageous this count thought I didn't think Duke schutz would sit back and do nothing but I never imagined that he would go so far as to select a future wife for Damian I need

a new plan who this is our room Ellie exclaimed her eyes sparkling as she took in the lavish surroundings the chandelier looked like it's made of gemstones I want to bite it and see if it's real Damian Ellie turned abruptly startled four Maids came and one of them said Lord Damien is with the butler at the moment we will be serving you from now on my name is Roa we will do everything in our power to ensure your comfort during your time here we look forward to serving you all of them bowed Ellie blinked Unsure

how to respond hello Madam head mid said you need not be so formal with us um is that really all right Ellie added hesitantly squeezing her hands nervously Ellie thought to herself I can't believe they're here to serve me I've never ordered adults around before they're being so polite I'm not used to it Roa smiled kindly you'll adjust soon enough please introduce yourselves to Miss Ellie three other Maids stepped forward hello Miss Ellie one said warmly I am Ivana that's May and this is ashel feel free to call us whatever you prefer if you can't

remember our names Ellie thinks in her mind it's not like it's that hard to memorize names she said Ivana may ashel I can remember those thank you so much for everything the maids exchanged delighted glances oh my she's so kind one whispered trying not to gush Ellie shifted uncomfortably under their adoring stairs they don't think I'm a noble like Damen right why are they looking at me like that one of them said now that we've introduced ourselves please come this way you must be tired allow us to bathe you bathe me Ellie stammered startled steam

waed it through the room as Ellie hesitated what do I do she thought anxiously I ended up going with them I don't want them to see how malnourished I am no it's better to get used to this so they don't think less of me let's do this ashel couldn't help but chuckle oh my apologies Miss Ellie you're just so cute that's all are there any scented oils that you're partial to ashel asked Ellie blinked uncertain scent oils I don't really know what those are warm water should be enough her voice softened as she added the

water in the orphanage was so cold the maids exchanged sympathetic looks but said nothing we'll do our absolute best to find an oil that you like Roa reassured her thank you Ellie replied with a shy smile I'll do my best not to bother you too much Roa said allow me to rephrase that we will try to serve you until you feel comfortable with bothering us Ellie's cheeks rened excuse me me even though there were people to help her Ellie felt awkward that took longer than bathing alone she thought but as she looked at her reflection

her skin glowing from the care and warmth she felt a rare sense of contentment still it was nice to use all the hot water and scented oils I wanted now this is what being refreshed feels like I'll never want to leave she rolled on bed excitedly then she bumped into Damen Ellie flinched huh Damian what's wrong did something happen no it's not that Damian's voice wavered I just was taken aback for a moment Ellie blinked oh my her eyes widened in Surprise Daman had gotten a haircut and the transformation left her speechless she chuckled Softly

ah he must be feeling self-conscious because of his new haircut she reached out gently poking his cheek daman's face turned Crimson as his heart raced uncontrollably Ellie's even prettier than the last time I saw her My Heart Won't Stop eating quickly Ellie asked casually by the way did the butler tell you anything today huh Daman blinked his thoughts scattered like what Ellie leaned in and whispered apparently we're going to get married Roa told me so he murmured and married Ellie tilted her head getting married means you promise to love only one person for the rest

of your life love Damen echoed puzzled what's that Ellie tapped her chin thoughtfully hm it's like how should I explain it I'm I'm not really sure either but this is what my mom told me when you fall in love your insides tingle and you feel like you have a fever all over your heart pounds fast Damian's face turned beat red as Panic said in oh th then does that mean I love Ellie while Ellie thinking to herself it's hard to explain Damen hiccuped nervously hick hick Ellie hurried over Damien what's wrong I was just startled

he admitted sheepishly another hiccup escaping you can cure the hiccups if you pinch your nose Ellie suggested Damen flinched Ellie thought well it's just he learned we're going to get married so it makes sense that he's shocked Ellie's eyes softened as she thought when I said I'd help him find his family I didn't think I'd become part of it too she wished I hope people don't thinks I planned all this it could seem like I was after Damian's money and background everyone has to know their place I'm sure there will come a day when everyone

here realize that I'm the daughter of a even thought Duke shitz was the one that brought me here there's no saying what will happen to me that's why I need to sit tight and play it safe daman's hiccups finally stopped oh are you feeling better Ellie asked gently he nodded though his face remained red Ellie grinned teasingly poking his cheek your face is so red it looks like you're about to explode she asked do you feel achy because you're tired Damen hesitated his emotion swirling it's just a little hot that's all de don't go Daman

blurted out she asked huh but you said you felt hot still Damen murmured looking away Ellie's expression softened damina are you worried you'll have another nightmare yeah Daman admitted quietly this place is all new to me so I'm scared Ellie thought to herself in the book Damian immediately adjusted to life at the Duke's Castle I guess reality is different though she reached out and squeezed his hand gently okay then you'll be okay even if it's hot right this way you won't be scared Damian's heart skipped a beat as he squirmed slightly yeah Ellie smiled warmly

all right close your eyes it's time to sleep sleep tight Daman she said softly A lot happened today didn't it you've lived a hard life but you'll be happier than you ever were from now on so I hope the dreams you see tonight and tomorrow night will be full of twinkling galaxies meanwhile elsewhere in the castle a hush conversation was taking Place have you learned of anything that I should be aware of this count asked yes my Lord the other replied the young girl the Duke has brought in his a commoner apparently her mother was

a rather Infamous Thief a thief Viscount asked his interest peaked yes the subordinate confirmed I suspect you've heard of her she was the one who made off with the emperor's treasure the man smirked his eyes glinting a boy from God knows where and the daughter of a Thief what a fitting combination well well done he praised that is valuable Intel he dropped a bag of coins into the ground as always I'm in awe of your efficiency you're very quick on the uptake you flatter me my Lord I'll be going now the subordinate replied smoothly as

he left viscom concluded I must alert the emperor immediately then he got a hunch wait there's no way Duke schutz isn't aware of this already if the emperor learns the truth then the wealth of both house shuts and cider could be confiscated by the Imperial family what to do a Sly grin spread across his face aha he exclaimed snapping his fingers I know how I can serve my interests and take that girl out of the picture in one Fell Swoop the next day in Ellie's room she was busy preparing for an important day Miss Ellie

are you drowsy one of the maids asked noting Ellie's tired expression yes just a little bit Ellie admitted stifling a yawn the maid clapped her hands try to hold out just a little longer today's the day you'll be introduced to the elders and vassals of house shuts May and ashel were deciding isn't this better one of them asked adjusting the fabric I think this could look good on her too after a few final touches they stepped back there you're all done Ellie glanced at her reflection and blinked in surprise her dress sparkled softly in the

light I feel cuter than I thought I would after dressing up Miss Ellie you're so cute one of the younger Maids squealed the head maid said Lord Damian will join you once he's ready would you like to wait in your room yes I'll do that Ellie replied after some time she felt exhausted being waited on is tiring she wondered when will Damian be here a short while later there was a knock on the door Roa opened the door and asked what is it a maid said pardon me Viscount corbino wishes to meet Miss Ellie Ellie

tilted her head Viscount corbino she echoed she thought I guess he's here to see what kind of person I am before we're introduced formally as the Viscount came Roa told Miss Ellie isn't quite ready yet the Viscount stepped forward brushing past her not ready she looks perfect to me Ellie straightened her posture as he entered the room he asked Miss did I come at a bad time she looked at him and realized those eyes he's not just here to see me clearly he wants something she smiled politely no my Lord I had just finished when

you arrived ah I see my timing is impeccable as always the viscon said with a smirk I didn't want to come empty-handed the Viscount said smoothly revealing a small box so I brought something special to show you he opened the box with a flourish this is the blue hope Crystal he explained it's a Mana stone that can only be found in our territory Ellie's gaze flickered toward the crystal her expression neutral if she's really the daughter of a thief the viscom thought his grin widening then all I have to do is catch her stealing something

with this blue hope Crystal you'll be able to use magic he said his tone smooth and enticing the gem sparkled mesmerizingly as he continued I brought it especially for you he turned to the maid you can go there's something I need to talk to Miss Ellie about in private the maid hesitated pardon me but I the Viscount asked you don't think I would try to put Miss Ellie In Harm's Way do you the maid glanced at L and she nodded seeing that the maid left the room Ellie glanced at the Crystal well it is a

pretty gemstone she said softly it's the same color as Damian's eyes the viscount's Gaze hardened stop looking at the Crystal he snapped it's not something you deserve to see much less covet Ellie blinked startled excuse me he smirked but I am a generous man so I'll allow you to fawn over it more if you like please return it to my maid once you are done without waiting for her response he turned toward the door but wait this is Ellie began but he cut her off Ellie stared after him baffled what was all that fuss about

she murmured one of the maid that came with him began truth be told his lordship picked out that Mana stone with you in mind would you like to look at it again before Ellie could reply another maid stepped in Miss Ellie it's time to go Lord Daman has arrived as well Daman Ellie asked her tone brightening I'd better hurry then she hopped off her footsteps slight as she tapped her way across the room watching her leave the viscount's hidden accomplish panicked no she can't just leave she remembered wait for a chance to slip the Mana

Stone into that Brat's pocket she won't notice because she's too dim withed outside Ellie met royne she asked his lordship didn't do anything strange did he no he didn't Ellie assured her the accomplice followed close behind waiting for the perfect moment it's now or never she thought her hand tightening around the Mana Stone as Ellie was about to leave with Roa she said I'll be going too Miss Ellie Ellie replied oh okay just as she made her move she shifted unexpectedly causing her to stagger ah she exclaimed startled nearly falling over oh dear she gasped

theatrically pretending to fall in the confusion she slipped the stone into Ellie's pocket after fulfilling her task she fell to the ground Miss Ellie are you all right did she bump into you Roa asked steuding her I'm fine really Ellie replied the accompl side in relief few they didn't notice right Roa then said I will be sure to teach that girl a lesson May is waiting for you outside so you better go Ellie nodded about to leave but she paused noticing something wait a moment she said glancing at maid's outfit maybe it's because you fell

but your clothes look a little dirty oh miss I am fine the maid stammered trying to wave off her concern then Ellie said I'm glad to hear it you'll have to excuse excuse me I'll be off now Ellie stepped into the grand hall greeting the gathered elders and vassals of house shoots hello everyone it's nice to meet you my name is Ellie she said with a polite bow the room buzzed with murmurs she doesn't even have a last name one Elder whispered oh dear I never thought Lord Damian's bride would be a commoner Ellie caught

The Whispers but held her composure that's still a milder reaction than I anticipated she thought forcing a small smile Daman standing nearby clenched his fists they're taunting Ellie he said angrily the tapped on his shoulder and said surely you haven't forgotten what I told you until you return to your rightful place you need to remain calm and collected meanwhile the Viscount approached the Duke with a false air of urgency Your Grace you'll have to excuse me but there's something I was hoping to show you the Duke replied coldly this better be of great importance if

you're bringing it up now instead of at a meeting it is the Viscount insist it's about the blue hope Crystal I mentioned to you the other day I've just finished polishing it so I was wondering if you could take a look now fine the Duke said with a dismissive wave bring it to me the Viscount turned to his accomplice who approached hesitantly he said present it to his grace the maid said my Lord there's something I need to tell you she whispered to him what the Viscount exclaimed his voice Rising what are you saying seeing

that the Duke asked what's this all about well the Viscount stammered the blue hope Crystal I had intended to give you it's gone the room erupted in murmurs and Whispers The Blue hope Crystal gone who last had it in their possession IIT was me I did the accomplice admitted the Viscount shouted how could you be so careless who was the last person that touched it t to be honest the maid began shakily I had shown it to Miss Ellie earlier but she didn't return it to me the Viscount asked you mean when I went to

greet her yes the accomplice confirmed when you showed her the Mana Stone The Whispers grew louder how could something so precious just disappear then the Viscount said I'm sorry to say this your grace but I recently heard something rather disturbing I'm sure you all know the story of the thief who broke into count leal's manner the Viscount glared Miss Ellie no this child's mother was that ignoble thief the room erupted into chaos what Miss Ellie is the daughter of a thief Your Grace the this cannot simply be swept under the rug then the Duke realized

I knew he was up to something when he brought up the blue hope Crystal the Viscount hiding a triumphant smirk said anyway if you would allow it I was hoping to search that girl for the stone Ellie was shocked excuse me the Viscount bowed I intreat you your grace then Ellie began while it's true that my mother was a thief she paused her hands shaking I didn't take anything I swear the Viscount scoffed we're merely asking to check Jack he said coldly glaring at her she took a deep breath and said all right but if

you don't find it I want an apology the viscom replied you truly are a bold girl fine I accept your condition he turned to the maid and nodded she nodded back your grace please allow me to search the child the Duke raised an eyebrow why are you asking me she already agreed to it with the Duke's permission the maid knelt before Ellie and began searching her Pockets her hands trembled slightly as she rummaged through her clothing after searching she said it's it's not there the Viscount crossed his arms of course it's wait what the Viscount

interrupted his voice rising in frustration what are you talking about are you sure you looked carefully yes my Lord maid confirmed hesitantly fuming the Viscount pushed them aside step aside I'll find it myself he searched again growing more frantic after a long moment he slumped back defeated it's not here a murmur spread through the room so she didn't steal the crystal after all one Noble whispered but Viscount corbino seemed so sure another muttered the viscount's face Twisted in Anger he grabbed Ellie by the arm wretched brat where did you hide it tell the truth Ellie

yelped ah I didn't take it Damen called for her Ellie before anyone could intervene the Duke stepped forward his hand clasping the viscount's wrist tightly I can't bear to watch this ridiculous scene go on any longer he said cooly his voice low but commanding Ellie looked up at the Duke in surprise I didn't think the Duke would come to my rescue Duke's gaze bore into the Viscount it seems to me that your little tricks are far more wretched what do you think Am I Wrong the Viscount flailed and squirmed under the Duke's cold scrutiny and

no that's not true Your Grace I was simply concerned on your behalf concerned Duke sneered it's obvious what's going on here do you not find this girl to be the least bit suspicious now you're making sense he added I do see what's going on and I'd be right to suspect you he called out Auntie he complied yes your grace the Duke stepped back gesturing toward the Viscount search him auntie nelt and said pardon me my Lord the Viscount who was dropped to the ground said fine go ahead and look I have nothing to hide the

Knight obeyed his hands moving swiftly through the viscount's thick coat suddenly his hand emerged holding a sparkling blue gem Y Grace he announced I found the blue hope crystal in the viscount's pocket Viscount gets shocked what was that doing in there the Viscount ped Your Grace I have no idea what's going on here I swear you have to believe me I'm innocent Ellie smiled it's a good thing the blue hope crystal is so light let's rewind as the daughter of a thief Ellie was able to catch on quickly to the maid's Ploy when her pocket

suddenly felt heavier she realized what the maid had done she held up her hand mimicking her movements she stealthily removed the crystal the maid had planted on her and returned it to the viscount's pocket Ellie thinks in her mind luckily both the Viscount and his maid were super predictable the north is a very cold place so I guess right that their clothes were nice and thick that's why they couldn't Fel the crystal the viscount's face Twisted with anger and fear the Duke's voice rang out vount corbino it seems to me that you should pay the

price for such deception the Duke gestured to his Knights take him away and his maid too the Viscount trembled and pleaded Your Grace please spare me I was wrong but Auntie the Knight grabbed the Viscount and his accomplice dragging them out as they pleaded desperately Ellie watched them go her expression conflicted even though he was a bad person it's hard to watch someone faced such an end but I wouldn't have been able to protect us otherwise Ellie beduk said drawing her attention you remember the condition you asked of them right Ellie nodded yes I asked

them to apologize the Duke turned to the remaining Nobles you heard her you have ears don't you the Nobles flinched under his sharp gaze we we're sorry they cried falling to their knees please forgive us we were discourteous to you Miss the Duke's eyes softened slightly under normal circumstances I would have immediately punished you but seeing as Auntie is elsewhere let's let's revisit this after the meeting thank you for your generosity the Nobles mumbled bowing deeply the Duke gestured for them to sit and also to Ellie and Damen now let's get back to the topic

at hand he said as I previously mentioned I will have these two children married one Noble hesitated Your Grace isn't it illegal for a noble to marry a commoner the Duke said knowingly I'm aware of that that's why I've called you here today I need to find a family that will adopt Ellie as their daughter the room fell silent everyone was shocked no the Duke said looking around the room which of you would like to adopt Ellie the Nobles exchanged uneasy glances hearing that Ellie thinks your grace just what kind of noble family would want

the daughter of a thief he asked now which of you would like to adopt Ellie silence filled the room then the Duke said hm if no one steps forward then I'm afraid I have no choice Ellie you may choose and me Ellie stammered the Duke said you'll take the family's name so it's only appropriate for you to decide uh well Ellie hesitated Ellie recalled the past where she was shunned this Brad is to associate with our daughter she is a disgrace to our family name what would our darling child have in common with that common

orphan at another event a boy said father I know you want me to have a companion to talk to but she is of low birth at another moment Ellie was sitting besides the orphanage when her mother came she said Ellie I know it's hard but you can't give up hope you will be loved wherever you go child she patted her gently you remember what I told you yes from the moment you were born you were loved more than anything in this world Ellie thought back to her mother's words at first I resented my mother for

condemning me to such a dishonorable life but ultimately she was the only person who loved me unwaveringly there's no chance anyone here would truly accept me as their daughter so I guess I'll just have to accept being a guest in their home suddenly someone knocks on the door pardon the interruption Your Grace I have an Urgent Message for Baron amanta the servant said as she entered the Duke asked and that would be she hesitatingly said well baroness Amant suddenly hearing that Baron Amant sprung up from his chair he bowed and said my apologies Your Grace

I must take my leave as the baron left Whispers spread through the room it seems her condition has taken a turn for the worse it must not be easy for the baren just look what happens the moment he turns away why does he bother trying to develop his mind when his hands are tied with the baress as it is Ellie's thoughts raced Amant I feel like I've heard that name before her eyes lit up Baron amanta he's a nobleman who owns a small mine but later on Damen will use a sword forged from a mineral

discovered in his mine to emerge victorious in battle on top of that in the monster infested North the best weapon is money Ellie resolved your Grace I'd like to be adopted by Baron Amant the Duke looked at her intently I won't stop you if that's what you truly want though I suspect the baron will need some persuading the Duke Whispers to her you won't be able to use such tricks in the baron she asked I beg your pardon the Duke continued your roses might work on someone as dense as Viscount corbino but they won't work

on Baron am Manta hearing that she was taken about she thought he knew that I secretly returned the blue hope Crystal to the Viscount she wondered wait then why' he let me get away with it he also knows that I was trying to help Damian meet him did he let it slide because he stands to gain something from this too that means that the Duke is the only person in this world who knows my worth the Duke added you don't think you can do it Ellie said preparing herself for the challenge no I can do

it I'll show you what I can do hearing that the Duke nodded later Ellie went with Daman to see flowers she asked what do you think Daman he was amazed it's so pretty hearing that she smiled it's full of flour just like Nana said she recalled Iana saying there's a greenhouse at the end of the corridor that connects to the estate be careful it's very cold out there she thinks it doesn't quite suit the Duke but I'm glad that Damien likes it here now that I think about it we haven't heard a peep from the

vassals ever since I guess the Duke scared them off that's good Damen saw a dandelion and chased it seeing that Ellie thinks ah how cute this must be his first time seeing a dandelion Damian finally caught it and was happy about it he then noticed something and called for her Ellie come here as she went close she asked what's over there Damen exclaimed these flowers are the same color as your hair Ellie laughed you're right it's the exact same color should we find something that matches you too she quickly found them her face brightened found

it he asked this is my color she said with a soft smile they're the same color as your eyes it's pretty right she was happy I'm glad he can smile like that now the two continued to play then Ellie suddenly said Damian you probably heard about this but I'm going to be adopted soon Damen asked adopted really she stands up saying yes I'm going to be Baron amant's daughter he asked so does that mean I won't see you anymore she replied no I'll only be taking the surname amanta I'll still stay here with you he

also spung up saying really she said of course I promised remember after hearing that Damien smiled seeing that Ellie thinks wow he's even smiling with his eyes now then she asked what about you Daman do you have anything you want to tell me you left in the morning he told I was practicing with my sword real training starts tomorrow she replied I guess this is the last day we'll be able to play like this how about we spend the rest of the day playing hide and seek Damien asked hide and seek Ellie explained yeah one

person hides while the other person has to find them Damian's ination was running wild found you Damian you got me Ellie he agreed let's do that I want to play then she said okay then you hide first I'll try to find you 1 two so they started playing hide and seek later both of them were tired from playing Ellie said I'm out of breath want to head in Ivana must be worried Daman replied yeah I'm tired then she said Damian the game is over you can let go now he replied okay suddenly they heard a

rustling sound nearby Ellie thought what was that could it be one of Viscount corbinian vassals it's just the two of us why now as the rustling sound came near Ellie hugged Damen saying Damian watch out as both of them closed their eyes in fear but a moment past nothing happened to them Ellie slightly opened her eyes wondering why isn't anything happening she saw a woman plop to the ground trembling I'm scared the woman muttered where am I it's so cold she's not one of Duke shs as vassals who is that Ellie thought observing the mysterious

woman she approached cautiously are you all right can you stand her clothes were fancy Ellie noted she's not a servant here either Ellie gently squeezed her hand let's get you to the greenhouse first the woman remained unresponsive her body was cold as ice Ellie's concern deepened something bad could happen if she stays like this but if I force her to come with me it could upset her even more I'll have to be as kind as possible so she doesn't get scared asterisk hello Ellie said warmly I'm Ellie I was just taking a walk with my

friend Damian who are you madam I am Madam the woman stammered Ellie stared at her thinking she can't seem to remember does she suffer from emcy she recalled hearing about the condition they say those with clency lose their memories one by one it's similar to dementia on top of that the patient condition worsens when they're anxious or upset I heard that it's a disease with no cure Ellie gently held the woman's hand your hands are so cold There's a Place full of pretty flowers in that area come play with us there it's warm too the

woman hesitated you mean there's somewhere warm near here yes Ellie said confidently turning to Damian isn't that right Daman Damen nodded in I asically together they helped support the woman to ensure she didn't fall again you're right it is warm here the woman murmured as they reached the greenhouse why were you outside in the cold Madam were you lost Ellie asked I'm not quite sure why I was there either the woman admitted she looked thoughtful Ellie said it happens I forget things often too isn't that right Ellie smiled H Damian agreed Ellie pressed on what's

your name Madam my name the the woman repeated she seemed unsure Ellie smiled I get the impression you don't like it when I call you madam my name the woman murmured she repeated my name suddenly someone from behind exclaimed Viara Ellie turned this voice a man suddenly appeared do you have any idea how long I've been looking for you what in the world are you doing here he demanded stepping forward the woman gasped Marvin oh dear me I'm sorry I must have gotten lost the woman replied sounding dazed the man sighed relief evident on his

face come to me it's not safe for you here Ellie's eyes widened Baron am man she watched as the man LED Viara away no way they're married does that make her baroness amanta Ellie thought shocked she hadn't realized the baron said to baroness I told you to stay with a M follow me it's time to go back baroness replied I'm really sorry the baron turned to Ellie with a sharp glare I'm not sure what you're up to but you better not use my wife's suffering for your own gain Ellie stiffened pardon me she asked bewildered

does he think I approached the baroness on purpose Ellie thought before she could respond Damian interjected don't speak poorly of Ellie Lord Damen I think you misunderstand me the baron began but Damien interrupted him there's no misunderstanding you can't just insult Ellie like that she's Kinder than you know Ellie was taken in the back Damian she jolted the tension between Damian and the baron was palpable Ellie thought no Damian shouldn't but heads with the baron Baron amant's mind is important and he was also once a great knight due to his old age he doesn't use

a sword as often as before but he's a seasoned master who will teach Damian how to use a sword someday Ellie stopped him it's okay Damian I don't mind just calm down but Daman hesitated you truly have a for schemes that's for sure the baron said mockingly turning away I have no intention of taking you as my daughter so stay away from my wife let's go Vieira Ellie felt a Pang of rejection but kept her composure she thought I suspected he wouldn't like me but I didn't think he'd hate me this much well it makes

sense that the baron would misunderstand but now Damian's also gotten into his bad books after the baron left Ellie turned to Daman you shouldn't be so defensive with everyone Daman she said gently why not you're the one that told me not to let people step on me you said I should get mad and fight back Daman argued that's true but only when it's directed at you okay Ellie replied but I got mad when he insulted you that's why I did it is that wrong Damen asked earnestly Ellie recalled before Damen didn't quite understand emotions like

anger and sadness he might have opened up to me but he's still quite new to Discerning his own emotions and yet he got angry he resisted and fought back given that I can't just take back what I said she patted his shoulder saying no dot Ellie smiled Damian I'm proud of you hearing that Damen was stunned for a moment then he said okay Ellie thought Daman just started expressing his feelings that means he's taken another step forward I don't want to get in the way of that she patted him thinking he's still not good at

getting along with other people but he's kind and pure so I'm sure he'll understand all sorts of complex feelings once I explain them to him you're sweet still I should tell him this just in case she began Damian even if you get so mad that you feel like confronting someone you got to stop when I tell you to stop okay he asked even if you're in danger he agreed okay got it hearing that she thought ah what a sweetie just then Ivana rushed in Lord Daman Miss Ellie she called out Ellie turned to her curious

did the baron form refused to adopt me already she asked Ivana asked Miss Ellie and Lord Damian you didn't happen to see Baron am man did you she was breathing heavily as she said that Ellie replied we ran into him just a moment ago he was with the baroness Ivan knelt down and said Lord Damian Miss Ellie if you come across the baress again you have to avoid her Ellie asked why she explained she suffers from an illness that causes her to lose her memories she becomes a child when she relapses into forgetfulness you don't

know what she might do Ellie realized oh so this isn't about my adoption she asked why is she unwell Ivana hesitated well the baron and the baroness have a son his name is Sir Jarrett the baroness fell ill after she gave birth to him Ellie asked isn't there something that can be done to treat her illness Ivana replied I wouldn't know be that as it may please alert a servant if you see the baress again understood Ellie said thoughtfully I'm still not sure she thought for someone suffering from an incurable illness her condition didn't seem

that bad she even said The Baron's name as soon as she saw him emeny might be a difficult illness to control but is leaving her by herself really the answer later at night the baron said I entrusted you to the servants for your own safety but I never thought you'd disappear like that the baroness began darling I but the baron Cut Her Off I know that you're not yourself in those moments he sighed I'm at a total loss he thought to himself I was so happy when viea and I knew we were to have a

baby both of us had waited a very long time for such a miracle but via's Health took a rapid turn for the worse after the birth of our son she came down with an illness that the doctors of our Empire lacked the means to treat as time went on her memory lapses only happened more frequently then one night I lashed out at her unable to hold back anymore that night I discovered her asleep on on a cliff nearby the castle I wonder what if the reason Vieira is losing her memories is because she wants to

forget I was the one that wanted a child in the first place Vieira had loved her Freedom more than anyone perhaps I ended up burdening her because of my selfish desires that's why then the baroness said Marvin that child saved me today he asked which child she replied you saw her too Marvin the blonde girl she warmed my hands and gave me her scarf she even brought me to that warm Greenhouse she smiled saying she's a little angel I might still be shaking outside if it weren't for her looking at her the baron thinks Viara

smiled how long has it been since I've seen her smile she insisted Marvin come with me to visit the children tomorrow we can apologize together she clasped his hand and said that child is my savior you can do that for me can't you he said inwardly Vieira that child might be trying to trick us she needs us after all but after seeing your smile he recalled himself saying your tricks won't work on me I have no intention of taking you as my daughter so stay away from my wife he wondered why does my heart feel

so heavy he was about to speak then stopped and took a breath he nods to his wife the next day Ellie was trembling with Joy saying Damian how could you honestly your skin is so nice she patted him and pinched his cheeks she asked how is your skin so soft Damian do you know what cotton candy is he replied and no she cheerfully said I'll make it for you sometime it's soft and fluffy just like your cheeks Damian said your skin is probably better than mine she denied no yours is softer want to touch my

cheeks he asked how could I she puts his hand at her face saying just like this he flinched he was about to pass out she asked Daman are you okay Damen she wondered is my skin really that bad I didn't take great care of it so it makes sense but still suddenly Roa came and said pardon the interruption Lord Damen and Miss Ellie she informed Baron and Barona samanta are here to see you Ellie gets taken a back what to see us then Baron and baroness came and apologized we owe you an apology seeing them

apologize Ellie stammered and my Lord the baron said I misunderstood what had transpired between the three of you I came to offer my heartfelt upon apologies I'm truly sorry hearing that she thought I assumed he came back to pick a fight what should I say suddenly she remembered wait Baron amanta didn't realize the full potential of his mind or until much later now I understand why she looked at them she the baron asked his wife would you like to rest she replied I'll be all right thank you for asking she concluded he was so worried

about his wife that he wasn't able to focus on anything else that means if if I create an environment that allows the baron to concentrate on his work then he'll be able to forge daman's sword even faster she spoke my Lord may I ask for a small favor in the spirit of accepting your apology he replied but of course what is it she said I heard that people who suffer from occamy become easily confused they say that raising your voice makes them even more scared that's why you shouldn't lash out at your wife she said

come on a walk with me my lady bar gets confused pardon me the baron asked that's all you wanted Ellie replied yes I'd like to go on frequent walks with the baroness I haven't been here that long so I still don't have any friends besides Damian he'll be busy training and swordsmanship from now on so I thought it' be nice if I could befriend the baroness hearing that Damian spoke if it's for you I can make time but Ellie stared at him as to stop him she shushed him she then said I won't bother you

too much would you like to keep me company just three times a week the baroness hesitated I suspect I'd be the one burdening you of course not if you don't mind I would really appreciate spending time together we can go to the greenhouse too she added with a smile there are a lot of flowers I'd like to show you the baroness was stunned for a moment then she finally agreed it would be an honor Miss Ellie I'm looking forward to it later Ellie told the baroness her story ending with so that's how I ended up

in his Grace's cast I see it couldn't have been easy to decide to come to the north the baroness responded gently Ellie thought I'm still not used to adults speaking so politely to me she smiled saying like the crows there are a few things that are a little scary but it's still Heaven compared to the orphanage she said inwardly this is 100 no a million times better than being mistreated in the orphanage you've been through a lot the baroness said reaching out to hold Ellie's hand it must have been hard for you you Ellie's eyes

glistened as she felt touched she said yes it wasn't too bad the other children at the orphanage were really sweet well some of them weren't and our teachers were the absolute worst but his grace got rid of all of them wait I mean he fixed everything the baroness laughed how peculiar his grace doesn't usually intervene in such matters on someone else's behalf Ellie tilted her head saying but he saved Damen by bringing him from the orphanage well Baron hesitated that might have been because of his guilt she continued I was unsure whether I should tell

you or not but I suppose there isn't anyone else who could explain it to you I'll tell you now while my memories are still intact the baroness took a deep breath before continuing about 15 years ago the Empire waged a major war it was due to a prophecy the Great temple graphs received a mystical power will bring glory to the Empire once more the baroness recited the mystical power refer to the mysterious life force flowing from the world tree through this power people realize that nature is the source of magic beings that live close to

the world tree are born with more powerful Mana in fact the tribes that lived close to the world tree were able to use unique kinds of magic but the world tree suddenly withered despite the best efforts of the tribes the world tree no longer blossomed which led to a number of rumors people said that the tribes were hiding the full truth to hoard the world trees's powers even though they were the ones who had saved it and so the Imperial family and Temple waged War over the fate of the Empire The Late Duke cider and

his grace both fought in the War together they became the best of friends during this time after the Empire emerged Victorious it successfully repressed the tribes but his grace didn't return alone he was accompanied by the late lady Uria Ellie was chewing on food thinking yuria there was nothing about Duchess shuts in the book baroness added Uria was from one of the tribes someone from the tribes became a duchess Ellie was shocked to hear that baroness continued people called The sh's Family the devil's progeny for Generations members of the sh's family have suffered from Madness

from what I've heard they suffer from an ancient curse that's why people say that his Grace's lands are cursed too Ellie's mind raised the book was mostly about Damian so I had never heard any of this before the baroness continued the reason why his grace fought in the War was probably related to relieving that Madness but after lady yuria arrived it was like his Grace's Madness disappeared overnight Ellie asked what do you mean she replied I'm compelled to say that it was perhaps due to the unique and complex magic of the tribes lady Uria and

his grace got married and of course they fought quite often still they loved one another deeply after hearing that Ellie thinks in her mind I see she was the only person who could free him from generation of Madness even though she was from the tribes he had no choice but to bring her with him the baroness added but there is a price to be paid for wielding the magic of the tribes when his grace went to quell the uprising of the Rebel Alliance 3 years later lady Uria used her magic to break his Grace's curse

on her own as she said that her hands trembled she continued but after the incident his grace severed relations with everyone though he maintained correspondence with Duke cider 2 years after that he received word that Duke cider's wife gave birth to a baby boy that was when his grace opened the gates of his castle for the first time then Duke cider and his wife that was the night the ciders fell from the cliff then Ellie concluded I think I understand why Duke schz feels guilty about what happened to Daman he thinks that the death of

the ciders was his fault I can relate to that I lost someone close to me too after all Ellie felt sad thinking about that seeing that the baroness asked Miss Ellie are you all right perhaps I shouldn't have said anything she replied no it's okay I just feel bad for his grace baroness patted her and said I see she continued anyway something about you reminds me of my son Ellie was surprised you have a son baroness replied yes but I don't think you could be friends he's much older and he's been busy with business at

my husband's mind hearing that Ellie remembered her plan she said lady amanta do you think I could visit the mind too at the minds of Baron Amant Jared amanta was working hard to figure out how to refine the new or they discovered looking at a prototype he said aloud I need results and fast he wondered how could I refine this at this rate I won't be able to make my ailing mother happy nor will I receive recognition from my father father would be disappointed if I'm not of use to him suddenly the baron came and

asked why do you keep sighing Jared asked what brings you here my Lord do I need a reason to come to my own mind Baron asked stepping forward so did you find out more about that or Jared replied my apologies I have not H Baron's gaze lingered for a moment then softened you need not be so Hasty take your time no Jared interrupted determined I'll do my best to make you proud my Lord do not worry seeing his resolve the baron said so be it spare no effort then as he said that he turned and

bumped into Ellie Ellie muttered ow that hurt Baron asked Miss Ellie what brings you here and you as well viea good day my Lord Ellie said with a polite bow baroness replied I knew you wouldn't be pleased but I wanted to visit with Miss Ellie what Baron said confused honestly you know there are a lot of dangerous tools here Ellie's eyes sparkled as she pointed at something wow what's that blue thing behind you some kind of weapon wow it's so Barkley may I touch the sword please Jared hesitated thinking this is the girl that his

grace brought to be Lord daman's future wife she's much smaller than I expected he said swords can be dangerous you better not okay Ellie said looking disappointed I understand I'm sorry I pestered you she drooped slightly but seemed genuinely apologetic swords can be dangerous Jared repeated feeling a Pang of guilt so allow me to show you something else really Ellie's face lit up as he rummaged through his belongings seeing that Baron interrupted wait but baroness stopped him shaking her head Jared pulled out a monocle and said it's a monacle that uses the power of a

Mana Stone oh wow Ellie exclaimed Jared instructed take it hold it to your eye like this she did so then stumbled slightly wao I'm getting dizzy try Closing one eye Jared suggested she winked asking like this Jared replied replied yes that's right watching her baroness said goodness this must be what it's like to have a granddaughter she asked isn't that right Marvin wow this is so neat Ellie exclaimed noticing something huh what's all this Ellie asked don't touch those Jared warned that's a collection of unique ores we recently discovered body heat makes them Harden immediately

once stuck it's impossible to get them off they emit a strange substance to eek just like a moner Ellie flinched have you ever seen a monster before Jared asked I haven't Ellie admitted but Daman has he encountered monsters before he came to sh's Castle he said they were really frightening once they grab you they don't let go meanwhile Damen was busy with his lesson Lord Daman what's wrong someone asked he flinched I feel like Ellie just said my name he replied Jared laughed haha that's true once they grabbed you they never let go he jolted

remembering wait I think I saw something similar when I was young he recalled the scene where a knight instructed them return to the castle once you've made sure there are no remains of monsters in the rubble soldiers shouted yes sir then Jared notices a sparkling Stone in mud he reached it thinking wow there are even crystals here i' better bring it back to suddenly a woman shouted stop don't touch that the woman explained that's a rare monster with special properties then Baron am Mana came and asked what a monster the woman continued it looks like

a sparkly gem on the outside but you won't be able to remove it the moment it sticks to you it might look pretty on the outside but it will dig into a person's flesh it's a monster I'm telling you remembering that both Jared and baron jolted after that they started discussing about it with another seeing that Ellie was happy thinking now they figured out that this mine is a monster's Denver next they'll start using the monsters to make weapons for now it's not possible to feel the full power of the toxin if it only touches

your skin for a moment but if you touch it for a long time it enters your body and becomes a terrible and deadly weapon it's strange to think that someone thought of using monsters for weapons they're definitely vassals of Duke shits that's for sure then baroness came asking shall we head back now Miss Ellie Ellie said but we didn't even talk that much today this was enough baress assured her you did something wonderful Miss Ellie for my son my husband for me as well and we better head back before it gets dark his grace will

worry otherwise Ellie clasped her hand all right lady amanta she said with a bright smile later at night frowns reported to the Duke ending with and thus Miss Ellie agrees to meet baroness amanta three times a week the Duke said it was clever of her to approach the baroness instead of the baron I suppose the baron will now be able to focus holy on his work ah that reminds me frown said his lordship Baron am man sent this for you w the Duke opened the box an arrow was placed in there an arrow he asked

fron replied yes he said that he made it out of the or he recently discovered the Duke asked what kind of ore France said well the baron said that the ore was a sort of monster to make a weapon out of a monster it's quite impressive really the Duke said I see I had wondered if he would was at Loose Ends because of his wife but he managed to produce something after all still a sword would have been better than an arrow fron replied this is merely the beginning he'll continue developing new weapons with time

in any event I understand now why you decided to take Miss Ellie under your wing fron added these discoveries were all made possible by Miss Ellie the Duke asked made possible by that child fron explained indeed it may have seemed like an overreaction on her part but he realized the or was a monster thanks to her she's a very wise young girl after hearing that the Duke lost in thought hm he thought the reason I took Ellie with me was because I suspected some connection between her and the emperor she may be young but she's

bold and Incredibly clever thus it's highly possible that she is somehow involved with the Imperial family they could be using her to train Daman to submit to them moreover the death of cider and his wife was no mere accident that's why I thought it would be to my advantage to keep the child close in case she slipped up and accidentally revealed information about the emperor that's what I thought anyway but what if the child has some connection with the emperor why does that speculation alone put me into such a foul mood suddenly the door creaked

opened a little hearing the noise run quickly pulls out his dagger and puts his guard up he carefully opened the door and saw Ellie standing there oh Miss Ellie he greeted her hello she replied brightly he hides his dagger behind and asks Miss Ellie what are you doing here she replied I wanted to say hello to his grace he said is that so as you wish Ellie thought I just wanted to listen in and hear more about the or development I thought he was a kind person but I'd better be careful one wrong move and

I could have died she trembled at the thought the Duke's footsteps echoed as he stepped forward he asked what's going on I have something for you your grace she held out her hand T it's for your headache Roa mentioned that your grace sometimes suffers from headaches so I brought this for you fron asked how considerate of you where did you find such a thing she flinched and said uh it just so happened she pressed forward anyway what's that behind your back what oh whatever do you mean fron stammered he quickly throws the dagger away as

to avoid showing it to Ellie and said take a look there's nothing behind my back she exclaimed oh so I see seeing that France felt relieved she said I must have been mistaken then the Duke asked why did you go to such trouble she replied oh I was worried about you worried he repeated yes Ellie's demeanor drooped slightly Miss Ellie would you mind giving the medicine to me fron asked to you she responded surprised fron replied yes my head hurts from time to time too all right Ellie handed it over fron another voice interjected give

it to me I beg your pardon France hesitated then the Duke snatched away the medicine from his hand but you haven't been sick a day in your life France protested the Duke asked why did you bring this to me I doubt you're just here to give me medicine haha Ellie thought to herself he caught on Fast he didn't fall for it my plan was just to leave a good impression on the Duke but I guess I might as well say it she walked along him saying you told me that I could pick a family that

will adopt me your grace he replied indeed she asked may I choose again the Duke said you want to pick a different family but won't you benefit from the current Arrangement Ellie hesitated maybe he won't say Yes she thought the Duke added I suppose you must have your reasons which family do you want to choose this time she smiled and said how shs I want to have you adopt me what his grace responded stunned I won't stay long she said inward I'll make sure I'm ready to leave once I'm old enough just let me stay

with you for a little while don't be ridiculous he said curtly I hate inconvenience and fuss I dislike children even more all right I understand Ellie said quietly bowing I'll be off then have a good evening Your Grace as the door clacked shut France spoke up your grace Miss Ellie is still young couldn't you have been a little less direct this is Children's Medicine he replied FR said Miss Ellie is a child so that makes sense the Duke said it's laughable to try and cure pain caused by a curse with mere medicine and this is

Children's Medicine no less it wouldn't even work on an adult he paused deep in thought there's a chance that Ellie is the Emperor spy even though I acknowledge that possibility I wonder why a part of me keeps hoping that it isn't true the next day Ellie reflected as to what had happened she recalled the Duke saying don't be ridiculous I hate inconvenience and fu I disliked children even more she thought I had guessed that the Duke wouldn't accept me but he was even Sterner than I had expected she dropped on bed saying if I could

be his daughter instead of a daughter-in-law I'd be out of his hair once I came of age then I wouldn't need to go through the trouble of divorcing Damian she said to herself well I guess he just didn't want to adopt the daughter of a thief that would threaten the status of house shs after all there are 4 years left until Damian goes to war the the female lead will be introduced another 5 years after that which means I have 9 years left she Rises up from bed saying that's enough time I can do it

she resolved I'll find a way to survive by the time the female lead appears later Ellie met with baroness while they were walking baroness said it's truly an honor for my husband to assist Lord Damian with his training I couldn't believe it at first so I wound up asking Marvin multiple times Ellie exclaimed it's amazing isn't it I hope Damien and Lord a man to get along she felt proud thinking it seems like my little hint about the mine really helped the baron I can't believe he decided to help train Daman at such an age

if there's one thing I'm worried about it's how Daman snapped at the baron even if the baron agreed to help it won't matter if Damian refuses I can't let that happen so i' better move quickly she opened the door and saw Daman popped to the ground exhausted she called out Daman she rushed to him and shouted Daman what happened are you hurt your cheeks are bright red and you're sweating should I tell his grace and call for a doctor he blushed and said no I am not hurt I just sat down because I got tired

she asked really he replied yes really I wouldn't lie to you she said that's a relief but then the baroness interjected good day Lord Damian judging by the look of the other nights today's training session must have been difficult hearing that Ellie looked at the other soldiers who who were Breathing heavily she thinks even the adults are huffing and heaving just how hard were they training she said I'll come watch you practice more often Damen he was happy really she said yeah I want to make sure no one is bullying you he again said I'm

really okay she asked huh oh or do you not want me to come watch you practice he shaked his head no that's not it I'm having a really tough time but I think it will be easier with you here as often as you want seeing his odd reaction Ellie recalled Tommy who also avoid her gaze when he's guilty she thought I recognize that expression but Damian would never lie she patted him saying okay I'll come more often then good work today Daman you're so sweat seeing that barus laughed oh my you two get along so

well then suddenly Baron Amant came and greeted good day Lord Damian he noticed and said ah I see Miss Ellie and Vieira are here as well Ellie said hello my Lord Baron said I didn't realize the three of you would be here together she said I heard that you had offered to help with Damian's training so I decided to pay a visit is it a problem that I'm here he replied A Hem Of course not on the contrary you've helped me a great deal Miss Ellie I had planned to send this to you later but

I suppose I'll give it to you now he gives her a bow and said it's a gift for you Miss Ellie she stammered for me after getting it she observed this seems like a sturdy bow it's been infused with a little Mana too the hint I gave the baron about the mine must have helped him a lot more than I thought what a nice gift then suddenly she remembered wait aren't swords used more often in war than bows the baron said yes that's correct however there are limits to our ability to forge swords after hearing

that she thinks ah I guess the baron isn't skilled enough to create swords yet Baron added but maybe way Brock would be able to Ellie jolted way Brock Baron told he's a blacksmith that works at shuts Castle it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that every Knight here had their sword made by him she gets confused then can't you just ask him to make one he hesitatingly said well way Brock is currently blind in one eye you see she repeated blind Baron replied yes the doctor said he could lose sight in the other eye as

well she panicked you mean even a doctor can't cure him he replied no if he'd had it treated in the past he would probably be fine now but it was we Brock who refused treatment Ellie asked why suddenly a thought crossed her mind wait it's going to seem like I'm prying around for Intel if I keep pestering the baron I'd better find someone else to ask she replied hm I see then the baron asked you don't have any more questions she replied my mother used to tell me not to stick my nose in other people's

business I know you won't tell me the reason anyway isn't that right Baron was speechless for a moment then he said yes she then asked are you going to train now I hope you don't forget that Damian is still young I'm telling you to be gentle with him got it then she walked away holding the bow she was thinking I'd better see what information I can find on way Brock then Damen stopped her she asked what's wrong Daman he hesitated while saying I don't like him at all Ellie looked towards the baron and again looked

at Daman she said inwardly what is he talking about she asked why don't you like him she said the baron might look like an old man but he's quite strong and he's This Tall Damian said HEK a bad person he was rude to you Ellie you're a good person but he got mad at you and acted like you were someone bad she patted her saying don't worry about me I know you trust me I don't need anything more he asked is that really enough she replied of course so Damian try to trust the baron as

much as you trust me okay he'll be able to help you a he nodded saying okay if that's what you want then I will Ellie was surprised really she quickly hugged him saying I appreciate that Daman Ellie's thoughts weighed heavily on her in the original story Daman wasn't disliked by the others here it's my fault for coming with him I should be the one that's cast aside not him she forced a smile I'll wait over here good luck with your training this is the only option she thought Damian must get stronger if the important vassals

of house sh recognize his strength then others won't be able to treat him with disrespect or hostility Damen and baron started their Spar at first Damien stepped forward and strike with his sword the baron avoided ID and then countered it with his sword as their Spar progressed FR also came there lady amanta there you are oh Miss Ellie is here too France said as he approached Ellie asked France what brings you here he sighed it's the first day of Lord Damian's training no I had to come he chuckled as he observed the scene he's holding

his own better than I thought yes the baron seems to be fighting him in Earnest too Ellie replied he made this for me as well it's about crafted from a new or he discovered she beamed I've earned The Baron's approval can you see how useful I am Ellie noticed FRS glancing at something behind his back trying to hide it he said it seems the baron was one step ahead of his grace what's that behind his back she thought leaning closer he's trying to hide it which makes me even more Curious Daman was panting exhausted from

his intense training session Damian Ellie took a step forward but stopped herself you won't go to him fron asked I want to but I won't she said inwardly I won't always be able to step in in order for Damen to carry on his family name he has to pick himself back up the baren observing Damian's struggle I wasn't planning on sparring with him so seriously but I got carried away Lord Damien still has much to learn about swordsmanship but I'm impressed by his ability to predict my moves and counter so ruthlessly even Knights who live

and die on the battlefield can't predict their opponents like that as Damian dashed forward to attack he countered it he glanced at other Knights and thinks it seems like the knights already went up against him before I arrived and judging by their expressions it seems like the training was more difficult than they anticipated he continued thoughtfully how is such a small and young boy like Lord Damien capable of such a thing I had heard he used to fight monsters when he was a slave did those experiences make him stronger he countered the daman's attack and

his sword flew away and Daman staggers and fall to the ground The Baron's voice grew firmer get up your training isn't over yet there are two fundamental techniques in swordsmanship offense and defense you are exceptional at the former but that's it you will not be able to defend others in your current state Damien staggered wobbling under the weight of the Baron's words and his own fatigue he stood up again holding the sword and glares at Baron the baron flinched and again countered daman's sword that's enough for today make sure you get enough rest the baron

said I can continue Daman insisted you can't win once your opponent realizes your weaknesses Lord Daman we'll continue after you've had some time to rest Ellie watched as Damen clenched his jaw and bit his lip determination flickering in his eyes the baron turned to her and observed he he then smiled thinking I think I understand now I understand why his grace brought that girl here then she walked to him and called out Damian she thought to herself I've never seen him make such a face before I hope he's not harboring any hatred toward the baron

Damian replied Ellie I'm going to work hard I want to get strong he said with determination after hearing that Ellie smiled and her worries eased she thought it looks like I didn't have to worry Damian has his own goals now this is a good change you're already strong enough she said patting his head no I need to be stronger so I can protect those I care about I can't do anything yet Damien replied firmly Ellie's heart sank momentarily in the original story Damen says that when the female lead makes an appearance is it okay that

he's saying it now I suppose that means you'll need to start eating more too Ellie teased trying to lighten the mood I have to eat more will it make a difference Damian tilted his head puzzled of of course it will if you eat enough you'll be able to fight 17 to one and still win she said confidently she said that recalling an incident from her past life she wiped his face and said there you go all clean then ashelle approached and said Lord Damian and Miss Ellie it's Meal Time the Food will get cold soon

so why don't we head inside Asel also greeted friends and baroness amanta oh Mr France you're here too okay let's go Daman Ellie said grabbing daman's hand time to eat and get stronger she added smiling you should be less picky too okay I will Daman agreed as they walked outside after the meal Ellie took a deep breath haa Damian said wow it's so cold still it's nice to be able to take walks with you really Ellie asked looking at him then Daman also took a deep breath hauh are you copying me she asked amused yeah

Damen replied grinning as always Ellie thought he was a adorable who does he take after she wondered all right let's go that way Ellie said enthusiastically then ashel called out Miss Ellie Lord Damian that path is dangerous why don't you walk somewhere else what why Ellie asked confused she noticed ashelle holding her nose ashelle why are you holding your nose does something smell bad Ellie asked my apologies Miss Ellie there's a stench coming from somewhere around here Asel replied I have a sensitive nose the smell of sweat in the training Hall bothered me too Ellie

gets surprised really I don't smell anything suddenly she froze wait the smell isn't coming from me right she drooped embarrassed ashelle immediately reassured her of course not you and Lord Damian always smell like flowers she said there's actually a place I want to show you would you follow me please Asha LED them to the Red Lake she said this is the Red Lake it's the only one one of its kind many people have drowned because they were entranced by its color and fell in I brought you here because I wanted to warn you of it

people have drowned in it Ellie exclaimed shocked Asel continued because of so many accidents there's been talk of filling it up but it wasn't done because of the Mana in the lake bed that's why you two shouldn't get too close to it Ellie asked you heard that right Daman ashelle leaned to Ellie and exsiz you too Miss Ellie promise me you won't get too close Ellie huffed but I'm older than Daman the conversation was interrupted by the arrival of a man who rre of alcohol the man took a look at them and started chugging his

drink Ellie get shocked huh she sniffed is that smell booze ashel greeted him good day it's been a while do you remember me the man glanced at them and said I told you it was dangerous to bring children here she began yes I was aware of the danger but Ellie immediately noticed the Shell's discomfort due to the odor my my apologies we'll be heading back now ashel said abruptly goodbye we Brock Ellie remembered we Brock the blacksmith Daman sword then they came back with ashel while following her Ellie asked that was way Brock right the

one who makes weapons for everyone in shitz castle that's what I heard from Baron amanta she replied yes but that was true very long ago Ellie asked did he stop making weapons because he's blind in one eye Ellie learned of w Brock's tragic past his daughter had had drowned in the Red Lake and he became blind in one eye ashel said but way Brock only became like that after lady Uria passed away he was grieving the death of his daughter around the same time that lady Uria arrived at the castle lady yuria was the same

age as his daughter and his depression improved after he spent time with her but then after lady Uria died he just started drinking all day apparently he keeps refusing treatment from the castle physician too after hearing that Ellie said I see ashel BL again you understand now why you should never get close to the Red Lake right you shouldn't ever go near it understood both of them raised their hands yes we understand then she said have sweet dreams Miss Ellie and Lord Damien later as Ellie and Damien prepared for bed Ellie thought of her own

mother maybe it's because I'm thinking of my own mother but I can't get his story off my mind let's sleep Damian Ellie said flopping onto her bed but even as she closed her eyes one thought lingered I'd better go back tomorrow the next day Ellie went to the lake to meet we Brock she sneezed I feel like I have a cold coming on I spent all of yesterday outside too she recalled I didn't realize they'd call the castle physician just because I sneezed once the physician prescribed it was just a regular sneeze you won't need

medicine she reached to way Brock's house she saw palace's physician there who was ambushed by crows Ellie thought oh is that the castle physician is is he treating we Brock today this timing is perfect I should ask him about NE Brock excuse me my Lord as she was about to approach him she heard him talking to someone yes my Lord you won't have to worry way Brock is going to lose sight in his other eye as well she froze at first but quickly hides behind a tree as she saw him walking the physician continued he

believes the deterioration of his condition is just part of the healing process the voice he was talking to replied make sure you do it once we Brock is out of the picture there won't be anyone skilled enough to create a sword that can contain the Duke's Aura without the ability to produce Weaponry house shoots will grow weaker that'll be the perfect opportunity for house quintar to take over the weapons trade The Physician said yes yes I'm aware it'll be over for Duke shuts after that the voice replied without way Brock House shuts is nothing we

must not let the oraron amanta discovered fall into W's hands physician said yes I'm taking care of that too he asked you'll give me some of the rights to the weapons business if this goes well yes the voice questioned would I lie to you physician said of course not I have no reason to doubt you my lord making a living is hard after hearing that Ellie was shocked well well would you look at that is he out of his mind meanwhile way Brock was lying on the sofa he woke by crows cing he groaned uh

the crows are louder than usual today he stands up and then opened the door saying hey could you be quiet he saw a blond-haired girl sitting near the lake he was surprised to see a child he quickly rushed and graved Ellie's arms saying what do you think you're doing he dropped her to the other side and said do you have any idea how dangerous this lake is Ellie quickly got up and said while laughing haha good day sir he is shocked to see her odd response good day are you trying to get yourself killed he

scratched his head thinking wait maybe I yelled at her too much people are already afraid of me I don't want to make this child cry Ellie apologized smiling he he sorry thanks for saving me he said I didn't save you what are you doing here she quickly stands up and said it's about this she showed him the arrow and said it's neat right I got it as a gift but I've never shot an arrow before I wanted to practice somewhere without other people so I wouldn't hurt anyone by mistake way Brock gets intrigued by the

new type of Arrow seeing that she thought to herself ha I knew he'd be interested she pressed on um shall I give it to you then he asked me why she said you can't take your eyes off of it he turned his head in denial I'm not going to take something from a child I have a conscience you know she said thoughtfully hm now that I think about it I suppose Lord amanta would be sad if I gave it to you why to just take a look then look all you want she handed him the

arrow the Arrow Head was SP sparkling calling we Brock look at me we Brock aren't you curious about what kind of or I am he said in that case I suppose I'll look for just a moment Ellie said inwardly feeling proud success he's interested in the new or he said uh why don't you come in you'll get cold if you stay out in the snow too long he opened the door and saw the mess he released I forgot how dirty the house is the stench of alcohol is strong too he wiped chair saying you can

sit over over there I'll have to clean up for my surprise visitor Ellie looked around the room thinking if there are people out there trying to bring Duke's shits down then way Brock's Affliction would be an opportunity for them if they're planning on making him blind in his other eye as well then it's possible they're also the ones who caused him to lose sight in his first eye but I can't let way Brock's Vision get any worse suddenly her gaze fell on a small red bottle she wondered what is that is it medicine she picked

it up and had a hunch this color I'd better take it with me it looks suspicious way Brock opened the window due to the cold wind Ellie shivered uh it's so chilly we Brock complained you're quite a handful he then light up the fire and chimney suddenly a thought crossed Ellie's mind wait is he eating enough she then said I'm hungry sir he replied what I don't have anything to eat Ellie asked what then what do you eat he doesn't reply seeing that she pressed you shouldn't do that you have to eat enough to stay

healthy instead of drinking all the time you know what they say if you eat well today you'll live well tomorrow hearing that he said it's been so long since I've heard that he began I had a daughter once she was a smart pretty girl but not anymore she fell into that Lake you were looking at earlier it's all my fault I should have told her to stay away from it I should have been more strict but I wasn't Ellie replied that's not your fault sir my mother passed away because of me she wasn't exactly an

upstanding citizen I don't want to justify what she did it was bad after all but if it hadn't been for me she wouldn't have done something so extreme still if she heard me blaming myself for what happened like you are this is what she'd say after a slight pause she said it's not your fault she added if your daughter could see you now it's not your fault dad that's what she'd want to tell you he continued a few years ago someone told me the same thing you did the that person is no longer in this

world but you remind me of her very much so later at night Ellie was about to leave she said I'll be going now they might scold me for staying out so long oh and I'm only letting you borrow the arrow today you can repay me by playing with me and my friends tomorrow we agreed that we'd meet up you'll come right he agreed all right where will you be she replied the castle hearing that he fell in shock what she smirked inwardly then she quickly sprinted away saying I'll see you tomorrow then War Brock tried

to stop her wait but she didn't stop and left after that he went inside saying I didn't realize there was such a young maid like that at the castle she's pretty headstrong then he looked at the arrow saying tonight will be a long night the next day he was walking towards the castle thinking I stayed up all night just looking at the thing I wish I could take a look at the or that the arrowhead was made of well I say that but who would want me working on anything I haven't so much as picked

up a hammer in 10 years he looked at the castle and thought I can't remember the last time I came this close to the castle either I don't know if I'll be able to face his grace again they won't be able to smell the booze on me right I can't wreak of alcohol in front of the kids he sniffed himself to check he went to the gate where one of the Guard asked him what brings you here he began I but the guard gets alerted seeing the arrow in his hand what's that in your hand

reveal your identity at once we Brock tried to stop them wait I but soon realized wait there's only a handful of people in the castle who would recognize me at this point how should I explain then suddenly baroness samanta came and said it's only natural that they wouldn't recognize you after you've been gone so long the guard asked lady amanta you know this man she replied quite well in fact it's been a long time way Brock then they went inside while walking way Brock thanked her thank you for that lady amanta she replied of course

they wouldn't welcome you with open arms you came up to them with an arrow in your hands then they stopped in front of a door baroness said come in Miss Ellie is waiting for you he gets surprised Miss Ellie he asked that child isn't a servant they went inside and saw Ellie Damian and baron Amant sitting Ellie quickly stands up from her place in excitement and said hello again you came early good morning to you as well lady Amant way Brock was surprised he asked Lord amanta Baron stands up and asks way Brock what are

you doing here Ellie chimed in I wanted to introduce you too this is my friend he's interested in Weaponry she chuckled he he took a liking to the present you gave me my Lord you like making weapons too so I thought you would benefit from speaking with him for a bit he asked but how do you too Ellie waved come over here Mister let's sit and talk for a bit after a few moments the baron concluded so Vieira had gone out to get you because of what she heard from Miss Ellie we Brock replied yes

I was a bit taken aback as well the baron glanced at Ellie who was drinking tea she noticed and thinks eek the baron seems a bit suspicious I should change the subject she asked we Brock what did you think of the arrow Mister he replied I it was he cleared his throat and said I took a good look at it Mississippi thank you I wanted to apologize for yesterday I didn't realize that you were Lord daman's betroth she replied it's all right don't worry about it then the baron asked way Brock you said you looked

at the arrow what did you think of it way Brock he replied I was stunned where did you get the idea to make it out of a monster the baron said well about that so they began talking about it seeing that Ellie smirk thinking he he it's all going according to plan seeing her drink te Damian thought I guess Ellie really likes that hot cocoa she asked you're not having any Daman he replied I'd rather let you have it she felt touched ah suddenly the baron shouted I think so too a sword would certainly work

better than an arrow I just knew you'd say that he grabbed way Brock in excitement and said what do you say way Brock don't you want to make one together with your talent we could create something incredible then he remembered ah my apologies your ey still hasn't healed yet are you still refusing treatment for it we Brock replied I beg your pardon what are you talking about my Lord I've been taking medicine for quite some time Baron gets confused what we Brock added Dr daryan even gave me a prescription suddenly a thought crossed his mind

wait I forgot to take my medicine while I was looking at the arrow but for some reason everything looks a bit clearer than usual then he realized that medicine could it be he figured it out and then said with a serious face my Lord I have a favor to ask of you later the Duke was a meeting with his vassals his attendant Auntie announced we will now begin the report from each vassal house the palace physician was also there he thinks in his mind if the thief's daughter becomes the Duke's successor along with Lord Damian

there's bound to be conflict with the Imperial family it could mean the end of house shoots even if we seize control of the weapons trade we could still face trouble without the shs family he said inwardly vism quintar you have a plan for this don't you The Duke was busy looking at the bottle and which the pills that Ellie gave were he recalled her saying feel better soon your grace Auntie was curious about the Duke's demeanor he thought I wonder what those pills are he's been in a good mood all day let us begin the

Duke commanded yes your grace responded one of the vassals I can start with reports from my territory recently we've been developing at the end of report the Duke said not bad very good next another vassel spoke up how's quintar has produced a new weapon far superior to its predecessors unlike our previous attempts this sword is much lighter and easier to wield so he stepped forward unsheathing the blade with a dramatic Shing I wanted to present this to you your grace he thought to himself in the past only way Brock was capable of producing the Duke's

blades the duy of shuts will suffer greater damage if the Duke doesn't deal with the rampant monsters that means Duke shits will have no choice but to use house Kar weapons the meeting turned to Baron am man how have you been fairing with the new mine you recently discovered the Duke inquired things are going smoothly Your Grace Baron replied representative of house kter said I'd be curious to know what smoothly means exactly from what I hear you still can't produce more than arrows he mockingly said but what about the black lions don't all of the

shits fames Knights use swords it's downright absurd that you can only make arrows he sarcastically added glancing at the baron perhaps they could serve some purpose in a hunting contest the Duke continued fiddling with the bottle after a few moments attention turned to Daran how is W br's condition asked the Duke Daran hesitated ah about that he's continuing to refuse treatment it's partially due to psychological factors as well so we really can't force him the Duke nodded solemnly beckoning to inspect the newly presented sword he unshed it and looked at it closely he remarked it

is indeed light the presenter's heart swelled with Triumph it worked the Duke will finally accept my family's sword suddenly a knock interrupted the proceedings Viscount kinter turns his head thinking who dares interrupt our meeting this is a crucial moment come in the due quartered a maid entered visibly distressed please forgive me for interrupting your grace is Dr darran here he is someone responded wearily but Roa announced Miss Ellie says she's in pain because because of the eye drops you gave her Daran looked puzzled I've never given her medicine before there must be a misunderstanding you

mean to say you didn't give her this medicine Roa held up a vial diar's eyes widened in shock th that's his mind raced that's the medicine I've been giving way Brock it's a liquid made from the cursed water of the Red Lake intended to damage the sight in his remaining good eye why was the thief's daughter using it Panic gripped him the Duke is considering making her his SU essor as well if she winds up blind and the Duke finds out he'll have my head where is she Daran demanded he prepared to leave I need

to see her condition immediately it's dangerous Roa interjected what do you mean I heard this was clearly medicine who told you such nonsense it's a dangerous poison we must act fast Daran exclaimed I must examine her condition at once where is she take me to her at once before anyone could respond the door creaked open way Brock himself stepped in what are you doing here Daran stammered his voice quivering that medicine it's fake we Brock declared his eyes cold darn stuttered about that we Brock questioned the medicine you were giving me was actually poison the

room erupted in chaos a murmur rippled through the room just what's going on here Daran you gave fake medicine to we Brock we Brock is your ey all better someone whispered he looks healthier than I thought thought no this will all fall on me Daran wailed he announced I was just following orders Vis comp quintar told me to do it quintar turned pale he stammered wh what are you talking about dyron aist you said we had to kill way Brock to weaken the military might of the North quitar sputtered in denial but Daran produced the

recording device I have proof he shouted the damning recording played revealing kar's treachery the room fell silent as the implication sank in the Duke's eyes gleamed dangerously how amusing I had thought there might be a conniving R plotting against me while I was searching for the child he mused but I didn't think he'd been hiding here for so long the Duke's blade gleamed as he drew it his expression dark and in my castle no less Viscount trembled thinking those are the eyes of a murderer whose Madness is quelled only when he sheds blood the Duke

puts the sword to his neck and said you were right this sword is far lighter and easy iier to wield than others I suppose that means it will be easier to cut with too the Duke muttered gripping the blade tightly his anger was palpable the atmosphere grew tense seeing that Andy thinks his grace is furious we'll be in big trouble if he loses all sense of Reason stepping forward way Brock spoke your grace for the first time in 10 years I'd like to give you a sword he thinks in his mind I feel like I'm

standing in front of the Gallows there's no way he'd accept a sword from someone who hasn't picked picked up a hammer in a decade the Duke's eyes narrowed as he examined the blade he said it's been quite some time dropping the counterfit he had been holding he continued a mere counterfeit never feels quite the same with a swish he unshed the new sword since I've been given the real thing I should put it to use right away don't you agree he asked he exudes a menacing Aura after dealing with him the Duke called we Brock

we Brock replied yes your grace while thinking he may have accepted the sword but I'm sure he'll punish me for the problems that arose while I was gone he said your wish is my command the Duke's expression softened slightly how long will I have to wait he asked suddenly I beg your pardon we Brock replied confused for your swords I mean the Duke clarified my Knights will need time to get used to them I hope it won't take too long way brck felt eased and said I'll bring them to you post haste Your Grace hearing

that the Duke nodded seeing that Andy said thans I'm glad that everything with way Brock and those schemers worked out his grace seems to have gotten better now that he shed some blood but then he paused noticing something strange the Duke's Aura still radiated at chilling intensity why does his Aura still look like that has he still not calmed down after shedding that much blood as the Duke began to leave Auntie called out nervously Your Grace where are you going the Duke ignored him striding purposefully through the castle his footsteps echoed ominously he burst open

the door Ellie was reading a book she greeted him cheerfully your grace the Duke rushed to her and asked while shaking her what of your eye I heard you use some strange medicine she replied you're making me dizzy Your Grace she thinks in her mind did he figure out that I lied judging by the blood I'd say things turned out well she hesitated about that she muttered to herself maybe I should have gone there myself and pretended to apply the ey drops suddenly a voice interrupted the Duke oh my you Grace Ro a gasp I

didn't know you were coming so I did nothing to prepare then atie also reached there he shouted Your Grace how could you just run off like that without a word and where were you headed to in such a hurry he was at loss when he realized the situation in the room he requested the Duke to come right this way your grace come quickly but the Duke refuses to budge then they went outside aunti he sighed after leaving the room the Duke asked what's with all the sighing Andy asked do you really not know he replied

if I knew why would I ask Andy handed over a cloth use this to wipe the blood for Miss Ellie the duw quartered explain his attendant hesitated before speaking your grace you're used to the sight of blood however the same can't be said for Miss Ellie she's still young can you imagine how scary it must have been for her to see all that blood other children would have been in shock if they had seen you the Duke's expression softened for a moment as he thought about this suddenly Roa opened the door and said Your Grace

I think you dropped this she handed over the vial the Duke glanced down picking up the object so I did seeing that royne added I was the one who gave Miss Ellie that medicine I suppose she gave it to you instead of taking it herself oh dear auntie said if it were me I would have just taken the medicine I can't imagine being bothered if such an ill-tempered man as yourself was sick the Duke snatched away the cloth saying give it to me of course his attendant stammered handing it over then the Duke asked antie

do the other Knights usually carry handkerchiefs with them he replied no your grace of course not give each of them one of these the Duke ordered we never know when they might need to clean blood the Duke suggested any fabric will do he paused at the thought of Ellie he recalled royne asking oh dear Miss Ellie how did you get that scratch on your face Ellie replied oh the towel that one of the knights gave me was just a little rough no the Duke said firmly find the softest fabric possible Ellie is the one who

will see the handkerchiefs there could be moments when the knights might lend them to her so we better choose a nice pattern as well Roa tell the servants to embroider them with flowers Auntie will be in charge of Distributing them AE was Dazed at his response yes your grace Roa replied what's going on with his grace they wondered exchanging baffled looks peling District within the duy of shuts after a few days Ellie and Daman went to the peling district as The Coachman informed them that they have arrived both of them were excited wow after getting

off the carriage Ellie noticed there are so many people a vendor was shouting newspapers for sale get your newspaper here people were busy chattering to each other ashel then said Miss Ellie is it really all right if you don't go to the shutz family's shops this is the first time in a while that his grace has allowed you to leave after all she replied yes it's fine I like this Market just fine she thinks in her mind I'll need the help of other Merchant groups if I want to do business under my name once I'm

not living with the Duke anymore I should do a little market research now that I have the opportunity she squeezed daman's hand saying letun go Damian she said it's dangerous because there are a lot of people out here so you can't let go of my hand okay he replied feeling disappointed does that mean you let go of my hand if we go somewhere less crowded she thought he must be scared because there are so many people she said I can keep holding your hand if you'd like he asked really she replied of course he said

okay you promise you won't let go she smiled got it shall we take a look at those shops over there at a stall a vendor announced new weapons for cheap just arrive today seeing that Ellie thought as expected most of the Wares in the north are for dealing with moners ERS later they ate nearest all Damien got sauce in her face seeing that Ellie gets worried but I don't have anything to wipe it with suddenly a Knights offered a handkerchief use this she replied to him thank you while wiping Damian's face she thinks that's sir

rer right he certainly likes fancy things then she concluded okay I think we've seen nearly everything I'd like to know about the products in more detail her gaze fell on a potion the shopkeeper asked are you interested she replied yes those look quite unique the shopkeeper smirked they're very pricey so I'm going to stop you right there I mean if you have that kind of money then I suppose you can take a look around as he was saying the night and the maids alongside Ellie glared at him he nervously added Miss Ellie was happy wow

how exciting what are these he told those are healing potions he nervously laughed under the pressure of glares he please feel free to take a look Miss he explained to Ellie this treats light bruises but paying a visit to the priests may prove to be more effective anyway Ellie thought to herself looking at the price for such a minor effect it is pricey the temple would be better for treating Duke schutz's Madness even if they can't completely cure him but I'm sure most poor people buy the potions since they can't afford to hire a priest

with divine power then M Iana asked Miss Ellie you're not hurt are you why are you interested in healing potions she replied ah it's nothing I was just thinking that I could give them to his grace when he's not feeling well Ivana asked then why don't you buy one as a gift she told in our duy it's customary for children to buy presents for their family on their first outing it's meaningful for those that receive the gifts Ellie lost in thoughts hm a gift a potion for the Duke he didn't bat Andy when I gave

him the headache medicine he wouldn't like it she said I'll pass on this one let's take a look at something else the maid said as you wish Miss Ellie later at another stall earrings caught Ellie's attention she said they're so pretty the vendor owner said you have good taste would you like to pick one out she saw a pane of earrings that had the same color of gem as Damian's eyes she glanced at them thinking should I buy them she murmured to the owner I'll take those over there he replied thank you Mississippi as she

got the gift she turned and said Ivana Asel let's head out both of them looked jealous noticing that Ellie panicked wait were they expecting me to buy them a gift too she thinks in her mind my relationship with them exists on the Duke's orders but they're still good people I've never bought something for someone before but maybe I should to show my appreciation for everyone in the castle will they even like what I give them what if they hate it suddenly two other people also came to the stall with a child one of them said

oh my it's so pretty the vendor owner said feel free to take a look around they're not extremely expensive items but they're definitely worth these prices the woman replied so I see the sparkly one is quite pretty May our son pick one out owner chuckled haha but of course seeing that Ellie thought it suddenly got crowded as the parents were busy talking with the owner their son stole something from the vendor seeing that Ellie thought to herself this must be how Duke shuts felt when he noticed my trick from that time it's not like that

boy stole from me so I don't really care but I could be doing business here someday I can't let such crimes go on unnoticed as they were about to leave she grabbed the boy's hand and asked where do you think you're going the boy stammered who are you she said I saw you stealing back there one of the parents said what are you talking about our child did what then Ellie said to herself this is it the first gift I'll give to the Duke the parents said we really didn't know he's young so I think

this was just a momentary lapse in judgment now it's time to apologize as the boy doesn't speak night Rainer glared at them seeing that the father panicked are you going to keep acting up like this how dare you steal he nervously laughed my apologies we've been looking after this child but it seems he still has sticky fingers he added if you're still angry then you could have him executed or take him as a slave you can do as you wish those are the consequences of his actions after all the boy stammered what you made me

do it he grabbed him saying you said that you would return what you took and give me bread if I did did the father said just when did I say that how dare you lie he pushed the child away and he fell to the ground seeing that Ellie raged how could he do that to a child she said stop she realized they're not even his real parents it's obvious what's going on they're using children in Need for their own selfish ends she questioned how can you say that you did nothing wrong you just hit a

child that you don't even know the man pushed Ellie shouting stop running your mouth she felt to the ground the maids rushed to her goodness Miss Ellie are you all right one of the maids asked should we call for a physician or the carriage all of them glared at the person the parents jolted and started running seeing that may called out they're making a run for it go catch them sir rer she then asked Miss Ellie are you able to get up Ellie replied of course I'm not hurt at all Damian would you mind giving

me a hand maid complied of course then Ellie went to the boy and present him a bracelet here he gets surprised how did you she replied I saw you grab that man's pants cuffs back there so I thought there might be something you wanted from him he took your bracelet so you had no choice but to go do as he said right I understand why you did it but you shouldn't steal next time you made it really obvious that you were stealing he grabbed the bracelet and said thank you this is all I have left

of my parents I'll repay you somehow Ellie chuckled ha how about we get you something to eat first later she gave present the boy with bread he said thank you so much for returning the bracelet and giving me enough bread and milk for my siblings I live at the mie orphanage it's not too far from here if you ever need help you can find me there I'll do what I can after hearing that she thought oh he might be young but he definitely has a sense of Honor she replied it's all right then the boy

said my name is Grace she jolted what she remember remember the novel Grace is a common name but in the book she was an important character she was a Holy Knight that risked her life to protect ashel the female lead could this child be that Grace at this moment Ellie found herself in an unusual situation it might be weird to say this but she's very handsome she thought the novel had mentioned Grace as a woman but Ellie hadn't expected this kind of Charisma she couldn't help but stare Grace noticed is there something on my face

she asked Ellie quickly shook her head no you're just very handsome Grace looked taken a back what ah thanks you're very pretty too she nervously added as Damian was glaring at her though I'm not sure whether I should thank you now Ellie noticed Damen fidgeting uncomfortably nearby ah Daman is shy around Grace too well that makes sense Damian's had a tough life she thought as she shuffled closer to him gently patting his shoulder to reassure him just then sir rer returned his steps hurried Ellie asked him sir rer did you catch them he nodded yes

she smiled at him showing thumbs up then Ivana came in rushing she gasped Miss Ellie are you feeling all right did you get hurt from falling she handed Ellie the bag saying I wasn't exactly sure where you got hurt so I brought a few kinds of medicine Ellie thought she managed to get all of this together while I was talking to Grace Ellie blinked touched by her thoughtfulness thank you but really I'm fine they replied in unison we're glad you didn't get hurt then may said in that case it's time to head back to the

carriage it isn't good to walk around too much if you're not feeling well she added with a glance sir rer if you will he replied pardon me he then lifts both Damen and Ellie up the maid said to Rainer take the two Scoundrels you captured back in another Carriage Ellie hesitated wait we're going back already but I didn't get to buy all my presence she said Ivana as shall may I wasn't able to see everything at the market can't I look around a little longer I promise to stick with sir rer and if I start

feeling unwell I'll go back to the carriage please her Earnest plea and sparkling eyes work their magic may side okay but be careful ashel said we'll gather the other Knights just in case as they walked Ellie caught Grace's gaze again oh so she's from a noble family I'm jealous see you next time Grace Ellie called back she handed her the medicine bag saying I don't need the medicine so you can have it Ellie waved towards her and said bye she said inwardly my situation will change a bit in the future but I hope you'll take

care of Damian then too Grace was standing there bewildered as Rainer took Ellie away she wondered this is for me back at the estate way Brock presents in another sword to Duke Baron Amant was also present there the Duke said a new sword already while Examining The Sword he remarked your skills haven't rusted at all suddenly someone knocks on the door the Duke said come in Ellie entered with Damen greeting his grace Duke shits hello Miss Ellie and Lord Damen we Brock said with a warm smile Baron asked I heard that today was your first

outing Andy asked how was it Ellie bubbled with excitement it was great we saw so many fun things she said to herself it was interesting to see how quick the pickpockets in the back alleys with their hands though they were a little sloppy upon her saying that the room fell silent seeing that Andy said glad to hear it Miss Ellie is there anything else Ellie thinks for a moment anything else then she remembered oh Ellie brightened presenting her gift Tata I brought these back seeing that Andy thinks earrings his grace doesn't have his ears pierced

but I guess he won't mind since it's a gift Miss Ellie brought for him he remarked those are such pretty earrings Ellie bright ened up right then she present them to Daman here you go Daman Damen gets shocked those are for me she replied yep I thought they'd look good on you Ellie choked hearing that the Duke froze and Auntie gets shocked looking at the Duke Damen hesitated then pulled something from his pocket I I have something for you too Ellie gasped wow thank you that's so sweet I guess we both bought something for each

other great minds think alike she asked want to go back back to our room and try them on Damian agreed yeah seeing that Baron nervously said this seemed quite close the Duke tightly grips the sword he was examining seeing that antie freaked out Ellie and Damen were about to leave but antie quickly stopped them he asked Ellie Miss Ellie don't you have something for his grace as well she smiled of course I do she called out sir rer he comes in and said we were able to locate The Hideout of a group of notorious pickpockets

operating in the duy and he gets surprised a group of pickpockets Raina replied yes Miss Ellie managed to catch one Ellie felt proud and said you flatter me I got lucky I hope you like your gift then she said we'll be off now as she left way Brock Fred uh that's quite an incredible present Baron amanta anxiously added I'm jealous they looked towards the Duke who was visibly shocked seeing that ande side it seems like he just wanted a little trinket from her I pity his grace later while wiping Damian's hair Elli asked how was

today's outing Damian did you have fun he said yes I'm glad I got to go with you Ellie also it made me so happy to get a gift from you she said I'm happy that you gifted me something too ah you're so sweet he then suked I don't want to be pretty I want to be handsome just like that kid we met today after hearing that Ellie reflected in his mind H that kid did it bother him that I complimented Grace she thought to herself Damian is already starting to worry about his appearance that's unexpected

she said of course being handsome is good by my standards the most handsome man is Duke shuts he's a 10 hearing that Damen drooped seeing that she thought I called Damen pretty then told him I like handsome men better she panicked but I like people who are pretty the best Damian you're pretty and handsome you have it all he stammered are really she replied of course after getting on bed she laid down thinking raising a child really isn't easy Daman asked Ellie do you feel all right now you're not hurt she replied Oh you mean

from earlier I was faking all that to be honest he asked while surprised you were at faking it she replied yeah remember what I told you at the orphanage lying is better than being made a fool of that's why I exaggerated a bit so we could catch the bad guy it was a white lie she added Daman if there's something you want you should never give up use any means at your disposal to get it of course you shouldn't do anything immoral or unethical but there's nothing in the world you can have if you give

it your all she recalled in the novel two of daman's Love Rivals first prince Fabian and second Prince Matel causer Damen an incredible amount of pain and suffering so Daman let's try to live a happier life this time I'll help you no matter what okay after that both of them fell asleep in his sleep Damen spoke I want to stay by your side forever after a few days Ellie was practicing archery after a successful attempt baroness amanta said you get better and better each day Ellie chuckled he you think so barus said of course you're

very talented I'm not that good she murmured she added to be honest I didn't expected Lord amanta to give me a present oh my it's nothing really baroness said warmly you're going to be a member of our family after all family Ellie muttered her heart raced suddenly she remembered about her adoptive families for she quickly shaked her head keep it together Ellie you'll just wind up hurt if you expect too much it's not like you're becoming their real family anyway everyone's just following the Duke's orders I'm only becoming part of their family because Duke schwetz

thinks I might be of some use taking a deep breath she said aloud then I'll do my best dear best for what came the Curious reply so that I don't inconvenience you Lord amanta and Sir Jared she explained earnestly baroness said gently Miss Ellie being family isn't a relationship born of necessity loving and taking care of each other is what's important she patted her head saying I remember what someone once told me being born into this world alone is more than enough for those around you so you don't have to push yourself Miss Ellie you

are more than enough as you are Ellie felt touched no one has ever told me that before before she could respond further another voice broke the moment there you are Miss Ellie she turned abruptly ah hello sir Jarrett he replied I was in the middle of practicing archery as well what a coincidence he said glancing at her she thought did he come to ask about the bow quickly she exclaimed the bow is really really great it's well crafted and works very well I'm so happy with it really I'm glad you like it he said his

face lighting up I did my very best to make sure it' be something you'd like clearing his throat he offered shall I show you how to properly shoot an arrow oh yes please she replied eagerly as they practiced baroness chimed in I haven't seen you so happy in quite some time if I'd known I would have given you a younger sister and mother Jared stammered quickly looking towards Ellie who was busy practicing Ellie pretended to not hear her changing the subject Ellie quickly turns and said oh right I heard way Brock is forging powerful swords

these days Jared replied oh that's true but he has thousands of Swords to make and there's only one of him it's not easy he walked towards Ellie saying anyway everyone is doing their best all right are you ready to give it a go Ellie pulled the bow string thinking well way Brock has to deal with dangerous monsters to make the swords it makes sense that it would be difficult to find suitable assistance for him I hadn't thought of that he's probably exhausted too her focus wavered and an arrow slipped from her grip I wasn't paying

attention I'll go get it she said hurriedly rushing into the nearby trees Ellie found the Stray Arrow few at least it didn't go too far as she reached for it she noticed a shadow overhead what's that she wondered looking up to see a cloud of crows Gathering ominously the birds didn't scatter as she approached and panic set in what's going on why aren't they flying away are they coming after me did someone set them up to do this suddenly one crow landed before her it was larger than she'd expected D do you have something to

say to me huh don't come any closer she cried trembling the crows stared at her with Eerie calm Ellie trembled and said why aren't you even calling you're acting like you understand me then after flapping his wings the crow transformed into a person Ellie panicked what is that that Crow just turned into a person just what kind of crow is that that person spoke so it's you the child from the lake he asked human child are you close with that hammer Ellie stammered thinking what H Hammer I'm not a lightning god or something before she

could react more Crow people appeared one spoke I heard you cheered him of his blindness Ellie thought to herself ah so he was talking about way Brock is he angry that I cured him she wondered is he an enemy of we Brock another Crow glared stepping closer you he knelt in front of Ellie and softly added you saved our Master he grabbed the arrow from her hand she gets shot what the person added while looking at the arrow I believed you'd save him from the moment you arrived at the castle I'm quite good at reading

people you see all three of them looked at the arrow intrigued Ellie was taken AB what are they talking about why is way Brock their Master as they examined the arroe head Ellie noticed something strange wait a minute he's touching the arrowe head with his bare hands but it's not hurting him she smiled thinking this is it sir Jarrett I think I found the answer she began by any chance but suddenly Jared came there and called out who are you get away from Miss Ellie he was breathing heavily as he said that Ellie looked at

him panting heavily oh he was worried about me she realized with a flutter of relief Jared quickly gets in front of Ellie shielding her he exclaimed how dare you step foot on the duy of shuts and go after Miss Ellie the mysterious figure raised a hand calmly hm I believe there's been a misunderstanding allow me to apologize for for the sudden intrusion however we are here merely to repay Ellie for what she did for what I did Ellie asked confused one of them replied yes child as I said that was our only intention do not

be afraid all we want is the Raw Talent it takes to craft such powerful swords it is our Clan's mission to make the strongest weapons in the world Ellie blinked in Surprise a clan that's dedicated their lives to making Weaponry I've read about them in history books she remembered a tale according to the Legends their Clan once forged the holy sword used by the Imperial family the sword born of strong divine power and their Clan's Mana was said to be powerful enough to destroy evil beings she brightened up thinking so does that mean these Crow

people are members of that Clan the figure continued after the chief of our clan died we lost our Guiding Light our ability to produce such craftsmanship decayed that's when we saw the Hammer's sword the other one continued we fell in love with his raw talent and have considered him our Master ever since another complained but then he locked himself in his house and stopped making weapons we were so upset the first Crow added but then you saved his eyesight so he could continue forging swords you're our savior the other crows also added that's right our

savior Our Savior Ellie's face flushed wh what's going on she thought for a moment well this means they have a high opinion of me and way Brock right then it shouldn't be too hard to persuade them the so does we Brock know of your clan she asked no one of them admitted we only know of him however I'm sure he will teach us soon enough we are certain he is our Master Ellie stared in disbelief what kind of logic is that clearing her throat she said anyway you want to repay me is that right they

replied yes Miss Ellie Jared hesitated I'm sorry to ask you this but can you understand what they're saying Ellie blinked what she said of course I can then realization dawned on her why is Sir Jared looking at me like that wait a minute am I the only one here who can understand them she recalled according to talum if a person has even one parent from the mystical tribes near the world tree they can understand the language of non-human races occasionally the blood of a distant ancestor makes its way down the family tree to now that

I think about it I I remember reading something along those lines in the original story it said that only members of the Imperial family could speak to animals I'm just a minor character so I'm doubt that I'm part of the Imperial family or the mysterious tribes so what's going on Miss Ellie Jared's voice snapped her back to reality oh so that's why you couldn't understand what talum was saying it must have sounded weird when we were talking right she explained smiling sheepishly Jared nodded so she chuckled I don't know the reason but I guess I

had this strange skill all along then she asked them does that mean you can't speak to humans at all the crow person added we can understand humans fairly well but expressing ourselves is more difficult we often get into sticky situations because of that Ellie nodded thoughtfully well that ought to be good enough she grinned I think I know how you can repay me and learn from your master later she introduced them to we brck while shaking the arrow she said if it looks like I'm being blackmailed give you Hammer we Brock waved his hammer seeing

that Jared giggled we Brock asked are you mocking me then Jared cleared his throat and said my apologies there are Miss Ellie's New Friends Ellie turned to way Brock it's been hard for you to make swords by yourself right my new friends here love making weapons too this is talum and he wants to become your Apprentice yes your Apprentice talum exclaimed getting close to way Brock other crows also exclaimed your Apprentice the Master's Apprentice Ali continued tumk Clan makes Incredible Weaponry they're serious about forging weapons however they're not as good at speaking as they are

at understanding our language we Brock glanced at talum and the other crows his expression unreadable an apprentice H he stepped forward considering the situation then tum glanced at the new ore and picked up a crate of the ore he then asked Ellie savior may we use these way Brock was looking hesitant still doubting their abilities the crows noticed and exchanged determined looks we ought to show him what we can do Ellie tilted her head now what are you going to make tum smiled confidently the thing you're holding in your hand an arrow Ellie asked surprised

we'll make you one that's far better talum declared his voice filled with pride after talum made a new Arrow Ellie exclaimed as she looked at the arrow W the arrow shimmered in the light its craftsmanship impeccable that was amazing I I can't believe you made it so quickly she continued inspecting the arrow it's a little lighter than Lord amant's Arrow too the crows puffed up with pride yes we are talented the best we're the best B chorused we Brock who was silently observing his expression betrayed his astonishment it can't be as they were celebrating Jared

said I've never seen someone with such quick crafting skills before and he had no problem touching the monster or either memories stirred within him a long time ago I heard about a clan that produced holy swords for the Empire could they be from that very same Clan tum smirked he'll accept us now for sure Ellie asked what do you think we Brock will you accept tum as your Apprentice we Brock said thoughtfully hm he is very talented that's for sure both Jared and we Brock glanced at each other then Jared began Miss Ellie could you

ask your friends if they have any intention of working here working here Ellie echoed he said yes like I said earlier we need more workers who know how to forge Weaponry if your friends were willing to help out I'm sure we could meet the demand in no time we'd be happy to negotiate the contract and compensation on their terms Ellie suppressed a smile this is it it's all going according to plan but she knew she couldn't make it too easy she nervously said they want to be way Brock's apprentices but I'm not sure if they

want to work for him full-time I'll still asked them though she scurried over to talum and his group what did they say dear savior is Master happy with our handiwork taum masked eagerly Ellie smiled yes but there's still one thing left to discuss what is it we'll do anything as long as we can become Master's apprentices tum replied that's a good attitude Ellie said with a Sly grin watch my facial expression maintain this expression and snort it through your nose it'll be even better if you say something like no way never in the human language

that's all you have to do she said silently coaching them tum followed her instructions perfectly declaring no way never the misunderstanding worked in Ellie's favor sir Jared and way Brock couldn't understand the conversation and it made it seem like negotiations were challenging perfect Ellie thought this way they'll think communication is impossible without me and I can secure my role here too negotiation and interpretation services don't come for free after all at evening Jared was looking pleased his mother noticed you seem rather pleased Jared she remarked Jared admitted yes I am I was just thinking that

father would be happy with this turn of events I haven't seen any breakthroughs recently but I think he'll be very satisfied with how things turned out this time his mother replied I think so too your father knows how hard you've been working on all of this his mother reassured him do you really think so Jared asked his voice tinged with hope she said everything has been going smoothly since Miss Ellie arrived uh I suppose that's why you recommended Miss Ellie learn more about trade and business because you want to work together Jared turned crimson and

mother that's not a hemp he coughed trying to compose himself we wouldn't have been able to speak to talum and the others without Miss Ellie there even you must admit she's exceptionally talented after she completes her education she'll make an extraordinary Merchant you have a lot to say about Miss Ellie just like your father I'm sure she'll be loved wherever she goes his mother said warmly Jared's smile faded slightly yes even if people continue to call her by that horrid nickname the daughter of a thief I don't want to see her get hurt anymore his

gaze softened mother why don't you tell father about what happened today Ellie's ability to speak a shap shifter's language is very rare if father hears about what transpired today Hill but she cut him off Jared we must not what why not he asked confused his mother's expression turned serious she certainly does possess a special power but all the mystical tribes died in the war then there's just one other possibility what possibility Jared asked his voice Rising with disbelief she has such an ability because she is of Imperial blood his mother stated solemnly and mother that's

impossible how could you say something so absurd Jared exclaimed I know it must seem that way she replied but we can't be sure it was never revealed exactly what Miss Ellie's mother stole from the Imperial family what if it wasn't a jewel or some rare treasure what if it was his Majesty's child she glanced around nervously Empress carthia will do anything to make her son the second Prince the Crown Prince we have to keep what we know about Miss ellia secret do you understand yes I understand Jared said reluctantly his mind raising later that night

Ellie tossed and turned in her bed this is bad I can't sleep is it because of everything that happened today she wondered still she couldn't ignore the opportunity ahead of her I've been wondering about how to enter the market now it's time to put my ideas out there she thought with determination If the product is good enough I can ask for a share of the profits what would be best I have to choose something that isn't too common it has to be competitive Damien is fast asleep maybe I should take a walk and give it

some more thought slipping out of bed she tiptoed through the Halls H it's chilly today she muttered this is spooky I feel like a ghost might jump out at me she shivered glancing around nervously a sudden sound caught her attention huh is it a ghost oh how cool would it be to meet a ghost while I'm working on my next plan while walking she followed the slashing sound that brought her to the Garden where she saw auntie and Duke oh it's not a ghost what are they doing this late at night she whispered peeking around

the corner she heard Auntie saying I'm sorry your grace saying that he raised his sword and slashed the Duke her eyes widened in shock what's going on why is Auntie attacking Duke shits you're Grace Ellie exclaimed as she stepped into the dimly lit area Miss Ellie what are you doing here Auntie asked startled her eyes darted between auntie and Duke shs who stood in the shadows blood staining his clothes why are you attacking his grace she demanded Miss Ellie we're just training Auntie replied I don't believe you Ellie shouted dashing forward Ellie approached and stood

in front of the Duke I might be a child but I know when something's wrong Miss Ellie it's dangerous for you over there come over here andun he called Ellie flinched her gaze falling on Duke schutz who was emitting an ominous Aura she gulped wait is this what people meant when they spoke of Duke schutz's Madness she took in the sight of of his bloody form noting the deep scratches and gashes across his arms she thought now that I'm looking more closely I can see that he's hurt all over he needs to see blood whether

it's his own or someone else's to quell his Madness but she also noticed something on but if the Duke really was so dangerous he would have attacked atie already then that means he is summoning her courage she stepped closer and squeezed his hand his ominous demeanor changed and he asked what are you doing here your grace are you hurt she asked softly you must be afraid if you're saying such nonsense he replied coldly I'm not scared Ellie countered if you were intent on killing me because you truly lost your mind then you would have already

hurt someone else I don't think you cause me any harm right for a moment his expression softened then as if by Magic the wounds on his body began to close Ellie's eyes widened his wounds are closing it's not healing magic or divine power his Madness really is something else entirely the Duke observed you're quite calm even though you've seen so much blood just how many times have you seen such things she panicked oh wait I wasn't acting like a child Ellie fidgeted caught off guard by the question her shoulder sagged my aunt she said quietly

your aunt the Duke repeated I had an ant that I was close to back when I lived on the streets with my mother Ellie explained she was always Hur whenever she came by to visit that's probably why it doesn't bother me the Duke regarded her for a long moment go back inside he finally said you shouldn't have seen me like this forget everything you saw tonight but Ellie began I'll take you to your room Miss Ellie Auntie interrupted Ellie hesitated what about his grace aren't you going to bed she asked him the Duke side I

can't sleep that well because I get nightmares nightmares Ellie murmured deep in thought suddenly she brightened Your Grace he turned his head asking what is it now she said do you want me to help you sleep she explained back in the orphanage Daman and the other children wouldn't have nightmares if they held my hand while they slept she said with a shy smile that's why I'll stay by your side so you don't have nightmares is that okay few moments later she was in Duke's bedroom to her surprise the Duke agreed she glanced around the room

so this is the Duke's bedroom her face burned turned as he began unbuttoning his shirt EK how indecent I mean his body might be nice but is he really going to undress in front of me what are you doing he asked catching her staring and nothing Ellie stammered turning away quickly that could have been bad I didn't see anything I swear he asked looking at her expectantly so just how are you going to put me to sleep she thought he's like an arrogant cat that's saying human if that's what you want I will allow it

I guess I should be glad he's willing to listen to me lie down she instructed when he complied she gently draped a blanket over him he asked what are you doing I'm covering you up she said you always have your chest showing your grace it'll be easier to sleep if you're warm he groaned dramatically I can't take this I feel smothered Ellie stifled a laugh he looks like a burrito he still let me wrap him up though I'm touched you look like you're about to sing me a lullabi he muttered should I she teased I

don't want to experience that kind of nightmare he replied dry Ellie replied all right all right then he asked do you not have bad dreams like the other children she replied I've always been a sound sleeper you see my reality was more horrible than any dream she quickly realized answer like a child she then quickly added I mean the food was terrible and we had to do so much work that's all the Duke's expression softened your mother what was her name he asked quietly what was your mother's name The Duke asked his voice quiet but

probing Ellie stiffened why is he asking about my mom talking about her never ends well she hesitated before replying her name was Shannon the Duke repeated softly Shannon Ellie's chest tightened does the Duke hate me for being the daughter of a thief then the Duke said I knew this was a ridiculous idea she asked what which idea he said flatly you're horrible at helping people sleep are you sure the other children didn't have nightmares after your attempts to help them she fumed th that's never happened she scolded hurry up and go to sleep Your Grace

it's long past your bedtime that doesn't seem like something a child should be telling me he muttered but I am starting to feel sleepy Ellie's face brightened yes it worked didn't it I told you you'd be able to sleep with me here it's hard to say the duke sighed it seems my body has decided it would rather sleep than continue talking to you Ellie froze her irritation bubbling up ug he's so rude but before she could retort the Duke spoke again I'm sorry for the horrible things you saw today he hesitated then added and I'm

also sorry for suspecting you all this time Ellie's heart skipped a beat wait what do you mean by that she asked leaning closer the Duke didn't answer his breathing had even out his chest rising and falling rhythmically she gasped he's sleeping she murmured her earlier curiosity fading it probably didn't mean anything I shouldn't let it bother me she leaned forward to poke his cheek gently a mischievous grin forming on her lips haha he's so ugly when he sleeps she whispered playfully she then left the room saying sweet dreams Your Grace the next morning the courtyard

bustled with activity as priests from the great grapes Temple handed out blessings and supplies to the children may the sun and the world tree bestow their blessing Bings upon you all one priest said warmly thank you for coming to share your blessings and offerings with us a caretaker replied Bowing in gratitude Grace watched as children eagerly lined up wow we're going to eat bread today one boy exclaimed his excitement infectious a priest said we're simply here to spread blessings Grace thinks in her mind all the kids will eat well today I love it when the

priests visit then a priest nodded and said the children are waiting so let's give them the suppli that we brought a young Priestess was also with them covering her head with the robe seeing her from the side Grace mistook her for Ellie she called out Ellie and dashes towards her she grabbed her arm saying it's me Grace it's so good to see you again she jolted after seeing wait you're not Ellie a caretaker quickly intervened Grace Just what are you doing to that priest she scolded I am sorry I thought she was my friend Grace

stammered backing away the pr PR chuckled kindly it's quite all right I suppose I look a lot like your friend Grace replied yeah we're from very different families so I haven't seen her since the first time we met she has pretty green eyes just like you the priest paused a flicker of confusion Crossing her face that's quite odd she murmured Grace tilted her head what's odd there's no one in this territory with green eyes the priest explained at least not in the North oh is that so Grace said said scratching her head sometime later the

young Priestess gave a peck to a child saying May the sun and the world tree bestow their blessings upon you after the priest left a priest said sister olley excellent work today she forced a smile you as well sister she replied but her smile quickly faded she thought it was disgusting to think I had to put my lips to an orphan's forehead to baptize them and to think there's a child with green eyes at the duy of shutz she grits her teeth as she thinks about it she trembled thinking I tolerated these vagrants and for

what my efforts were for nothing under the sunshine the other priest noticed Oh Sister ovy your eyes look almost orange today she gets shocked what the priest said the sunset is casting light on your face so your eyes look orange she quickly covered her face and said sister uh I'm feeling a little tired after blessing so many people today I think I'd like to shut my eyes for a moment could you wake me up when we reach the temple she replied of course sleep tight later at night she slammed her hand with a vile thinking

the potion shouldn't have worn off this quickly what's going on she said aloud my eyes should be back to normal now that was a close one suddenly the magic Globe buzzed and a voice spoke still up to your old tricks I see a man's voice said Ali froze F father she stammered I was about to call you I finally found a way to get closer to the Duke he asked asked are you talking about the cider boy I heard that Duke shitz found him ol asked what are you talking about her father showed his disappointment

what is it that you wanted to tell me do you have any idea how expensive it was to send you to the temple He barked all because you said you'd find the boy you fool she said I am sorry Father you better find a way Livia for gel he snapped you know don't you if it hadn't been for that weria you would have become Duchess shuts we need to find a way to free ourselves from being the Empire's lap dogs Livia's jaw tightened at first it was on my father's order but then I found myself

desperately wanting to become part of the schutz family I'll do anything to be by Duke schutz's side even if it means I have to marry that cider boy she recalled a scene from her past where the Duke saved her and said there are lots of monsters here if you don't want to die you'd better be careful her heart raced looking at the Duke she thought we're both loners so we'd be a good match for each other her father was still calling her report back to me soon but she continued that's why I'll do anything to

take her place she recalled Ellie as she thinks about it after a few days as Ellie practiced archery the maids were cheering up for her you're the best Miss Ellie do it again Miss Ellie as she hits another Target they celebrated for her Miss Ellie you're amazing three cheers for Miss Ellie huzzah hooray she thinks in her mind well as long as they're happy they're such hardcore fans the Duke was watching her from his room fron approached speaking seriously we managed to find the Band of Thieves Miss Ellie alerted us about they're also associated with

a wanted criminal so we discovered their residence Through Torture he caught sight of Ellie and her servants ah it's Miss Ellie and the servants maids and ser rer were cheering for her as she uses her secret skill shooting upside down Ellie smiled confidently my secret skill shooting upside down she declared showcasing her unique ability fron added I heard that Miss Ellie enjoys archery a lot the Duke declared of course she likes it I gave her the bow after all I ought to go watch her shoot fron gets stunned as he heard that he tried to

stop the Duke why your grace wait just a moment Your Grace France called huffing and panting as he followed the Duke after reaching to her he saw Rainer holding Ellie up he asked why why are you holding her like that Raina replied ah Your Grace Miss Ellie was feeling tired so I was going to bring her inside the Duke asked are you hurt no I just wanted to stop before my arm started hurting Ellie replied ah I see the Duke's expression softened Rainer you said you had a son yes he replied yes I have three

is that so this is how you hold a child the Duke adjusted Ellie carefully she thought to herself now this is so much more comfortable not that I was uncomfortable when sir rer was holding me all the maids and Sir reer were shocked to see the Duke holding Ellie he never cared for anyone before the Duke glanced down at her you agree don't you Ellie gave a thumbs up but her thoughts raced I can't just admit that his gaze fell to the bow in her hands he said that bow Ellie smiled ah this is the

bow that lord amanta gave me T it's much better than any other bow I've ever used hearing that the Duke ominously asked France where is the bow that I gifted her a about that your grace France hesitated seeing the situation Ellie recall ah it seems like the Duke gave me a bow too I think I understand what's going on here your grace Ellie exclaimed looking up at him I like the bow that you gave me best of all truly you have good taste for a child the Duke remarked smugly H I'm not a child Ellie

shot back Miss Ellie saved me fron cried out tears forming in his eyes a hem don't get too emotional France Ellie admonished softly I lied for my sake I have to stay on the Duke's good side if I want to survive after all then the Duke asked have you been eating properly you look quite gaunt Ellie flinched of course I'm getting enough to eat this won't do the Duke interrupted at this rate you'll be all skin and bones he rushed while holding her W wa Ellie stammered as the Duke took charge the Duke said while

while sprinting let's head to the dining room wait listen to me for a second Ellie protested inwardly later as he was holding her he said to think you couldn't eaten more than that I suppose that's why you have such a small frame anyone could tell you that I ate way too much Ellie muttered under her breath the Duke asked anyway where are you headed next she said will you take me there do you think I'm your personal Coachman the Duke teased smiling you're the one who's refused to let me down you're actions don't match your

words Ellie retorted she admitted haha of course not I do have someplace to be though the Duke inquired where is it she chuckled well the clang of swords and heavy flxs filled the air as they arrived at the training Hall after ring there he asked the training Hall do you want to learn how to use a sword now that you've mastered the bow Ellie confessed no this kind of intense training would be too difficult for me he asked then why Ellie a familiar voice called out she gets down and said Damian is your training going

well I promised I'd come to watch you train remember Daman brightened up she asked have you eaten lunch yet he replied and not yet Ellie patted his head while he said I'll finish up quickly so we can eat lunch together ah sorry I eat before I came Ellie admitted hastily Damen halted with who she replied with his grace the Duke who was standing there awkwardly noticed Damian looking at him furiously he sighed inwardly asterisk Daman is still looking at me like I'm his prey he's still just a little puppy though even if I want to

help him he's still wary of me so I'm not sure how Damian then said Ellie you'll still eat with me from now on right I train so hard too Daman drooped looking defeated what are you talking about of course we'll eat together Ellie reassured him ha really Damian's eyes lit up she said of course who would I eat with otherwise seeing that the Duke thinks typical of a ciper conniving at every opportunity then from now on I suppose the three of us can eat together the Duke declared patting their heads Ellie thinks in her mind

oh this is a chance for Damen to get closer to the Duke what a good idea she said I'd like that Damen agreed half-heartedly well if Ellie wants to the Duke chuckled softly his reaction is pretty cute then Ellie asked does that mean I have to eat lunch again your grace no we'll eat supper together the Duke corrected as the meal continued Ellie tried various dishes her plate piling higher and higher Ellie do you want to try this try this one too Damen encouraged raising another dish the Duke offered another dish try this one too

this is tasty as well Daman exclaimed munching happily the Duke reminded her you'll feel sick if you eat so fast take your time both of them asked in unison try this how is it do you like it by her tenth plate Ellie sighed feeling overwhelmed I'm not even sure anymore you too should eat too please she pleaded softly later while talking with baroness amanta the baroness chuckled so that's what happened with Daman and his grace yesterday it sounds like you're getting a lot of love Alie questioned love I don't think so his grace just enjoys

teasing me that's all she added just look at me I've gained a lot of weight haven't I the baroness replied I'm not sure about that she started coughing as she said that Ellie quickly stands up and asked lady amanta are you all right it's cold today shall we head back baroness replied I'm fine besides I'll feel cooped up if I just stay in my room anyway you did a great job why don't you give it to his grace as a gift she replied I don't think he'll like this he didn't seem to love the last

gift I gave him either told don't think that way he's just not very good at expressing himself she added gifting this kind of nodded tassel has special significance also you put your heart into making it I'm sure he'll like it Ellie agreed all right I'll do my best baroness assured her I'll help too later she went to the Duke as he was about to leave she felt pressured wait is this really a good idea lady amanta I made a mistake I shouldn't have decided to give it to him Andy noticed her and called her Miss

Ellie she quickly hides the tassel behind and said g good day where are you headed Andy replied we're going to patrol the duy we'll be away from the castle for a few days the Duke said most of the black lions will come with us don't cause any trouble while I'm gone she replied sternly I won't fron lady amanta and Sir jerrett will be here too hearing that the Duke twitched ah you must be very close to all of them you're acting like sir Jared is your guardian now seeing the Duke contention Auntie said inwardly hang

in there your grace Ellie replied his family will adopt me soon so isn't that natural the Duke again twitched I should have known once you started your lessons together noticing his restlessness the Knight reminded him your grace it's time for us to leave he agreed all right hearing that Ellie thinks a I'll miss my chance if I don't give it to him now she mustered up the courage and present the tassel to the Duke she said why your your grace take this it's a nodded tassel I made with Lady amanta he asked you made it

she blushed and said I know it's not much but it's a token that's said to keep you safe she felt embarrassing she added you don't have to take it with you if you don't like it but the Duke grabs it from her hand and said enough you did a pretty shabby job I'd better hang on to it so I can tease you for the rest of your life he puts it on his rope she pouted I don't think it's shabby then he patted her and said I'm joking it's quite pretty thank you I'll be off

now take care of yourself until I return Ellie stands there dazed he patted me the Duke praised me for the first time that day asterisk his words felt as big and warm as his hand she said aloud safe travels a few days later Ellie went to Baron amant's mind with Damien where Jared showed her a sword she was amazed to see the new sword she asked this is your latest creation can Damen hold it to can he sir Jared Jared replied of course as Damen observed the sword she said it's nice right not too heavy

he swings around the sword and said yeah it's lighter than I thought hearing that she felt pleased I'm glad it seems like he likes it he's gotten so much better at using a sword suddenly talum came with we Brock he called out our savior did you come to see the finished sword she greeted him tum we Brock she thought to herself we Brock looks like he's recovered I'm glad he's healthy now talum asked who's that boy next to you she introduced him oh you've never met him have you this is Daman Daman this is talum

he's been helping way Brock make swords say hi Damian frowned at him seeing that Ellie said it's okay he's a good person then tum asked savior how old is that child she replied oh he'll be 12 years old soon tum muttered under his breath is that so then that's not too bad for a child his age then Ellie asked way Brock and talum would you two like to come to the market Lord amanta is finally letting sir Jarrett take control of production at the merchant Guild we were going to do some market research together tum

replied I appreciate that but we have to decline there's something we'd like to forge instead our master has to help so he can't go either Ellie gets confused you're making another new weapon what is it this time she looked around and saw tum leaning closer towards Damen tum smiled looking closer at Daman but Damen flinched later at pelen District Ellie and Damen were eating skewers hand in hand she thinks in her mind why was tum acting like that was he inspired by Damian's eyes because they look like blue gems this isn't the time now that

we're at the market I have to focus on finding new ideas we should go down a street we haven't seen before as she was munching she gets an intuition she shutters at the thought I just felt someone looking at me she looked around who Could It Be The Band of Thieves shouldn't be around anymore she said to Daman this way Damian she said inwardly we better find sir Jared just in case or get back to the carriage at least suddenly she felt something smells weird it's a rotten foul stench then someone grabs her other hand

and pulled her her hand slipped from Daman and he called for her Ellie Ellie she she looked at him from a distance extending her hand towards Damian meanwhile the Duke and his Knights were facing monsters in a dreary Forest a knight grumbled those useless priests couldn't even Purify one of these we're only managing to move at this speed because Baron Amant is taking care of the encampment the Duke was smiling touching the tassel that Ellie gave him he called Auntie he replied yes the Duke asked what do you think it means to be family I

beg your pardon anun he hesitated he slashed him monster and said hm I'm not sure that's a difficult question to answer generally I suppose it means that parents would do anything for their children and that their children would trust them as they continue to develop and grow the Duke said I see then a knight added Your Grace think of Baron and baroness amanta and Sir Jared they consider Ellie as one of their own do they not that's what a family is both the Duke and Auntie flinched after hearing that the Duke emits his Aura saying

so she like a daughter to the baron Andy whispered to the Knight hey wait you can't say that the Knight added oh that was a slip of the tongue I meant that the baron sees her as a granddaughter not a daughter he isn't exactly young after all then the Duke said wait why don't people talk about me like that he said let's finish up and head back quickly once we return I ought to ask them about the things they learned as Ellie was being dragged away May May intervened and freeze Ellie from the person's hand

hand May called out Miss Ellie after she apprehended the man ashelle asked Ellie Miss Ellie are you all right are you hurt she replied I'm fine I was just a little surprised Damian also approached there and asked Ellie are you okay did you get hurt she cheerfully replied don't worry I'm totally fine look it's nothing she raised her hand to show but there were blood stains on her hand seeing that Damian get stunned Asel said once sir Jared comes we'll call the n and have the kidnapper apprehended his grace will handle the rest once he's

back she suddenly said ug what in the world does that smell the man pleaded I'm sorry I didn't do it on purpose I was worried my daughter would run away just like my wife on the day she left my wife told me that my daughter has blonde hair and green eyes just like me hearing that Ellie turned thinking what does that mean could I be that man's daughter my mom never told me about my dad so I always assumed he'd be a homeless Wanderer like her but if he's really my dad why didn't he come

for me sooner Jared also came there saying it's so loud Miss Ellie what's going on suddenly sister oy came and said I told you not to stray too far oh my goodness Grace also came there saying please wait sister ay I also seeing Ellie she asked Ellie what are you doing with this man she replied Grace I should ask you the same thing Olly interv Ed hm would you mind if I explained I'm ay a priest from the Great temple of the north I live on the streets and Aid those in emotional pain this man

is one such person he suddenly broke away saying he had found his daughter Grace and I followed him just in case Jared stopped Ellie and said that doesn't exactly justify his actions though there's also no proof that Miss Ellie is his daughter Aly replied there might not be any evidence but he was simply looking for his child out he didn't do anything wrong there's also no evidence that she's not his daughter upon hearing that Damen spoke with a serious tone what makes you the judge of that Ellie is the one that got hurt only Ellie

has the right to say whether or not he was wrong not you Al replied I think you're mistaken I simply meant Damian Cut Her Off tend to her wounds you're a priest aren't you don't you think you should be more concerned about the person who got hurt looking at him Ellie thinks he spoke icily it was just like the first day they met yet he had changed a lot since then thanks to Daman Ellie no longer felt shaken she thought carefully calmly first of all there was no way to confirm whether or not that man

was her biological father that meant all she could do was not let her emotions get the best of her and try her best to solve the issue she groaned in pain ow that hurts Damian stammered Ellie are you okay a interjected my apologies I should have tended to you first could you show me where you got hurt Ellie showed her yes then Ellie said wait sister ay you'll Heal Me with Your Divine power right since that power can heal wounds instantly Aly was speechless for a moment then she began I'm sorry priests are not allowed

to use their divine power unless it's absolutely necessary she pulled out a vial saying I'll heal you with holy water instead Ellie thinks in her mind what but I heard they always use it for the other Nobles so why not now I wanted to see the mystical divine power up close does she have something against me Ellie wondered as she was about to pour water on her wound Damen pushed her away and the bottle fell down and broke Damen questioned is that really holy water there was a rotten smell coming from you what in the

world are you implying Aly demanded her voice Rising she said inwardly how dare you do you have any idea what that is Damian's eyes narrowed she thought his eyes look familiar where have I seen him before asterisk suddenly it clicked she remembered I need a potion that will change the color of my hair and eyes a voice from the past echoed in her mind the Apothecary had replied that won't be difficult but it may take some time to prepare she insisted I need it within the week the Apothecary said what I need at least 10

days I can't do it in just a week then she observed a boy inside a cage everything fell into place Place wait I remember him he's that test subject from the Apothecary I had no idea he was the son of Duke cider I could have had him back then she smirked so that's how he knew it wasn't holy water but there's no way for that naive little boy to prove it she brightened up I think you must be mistaken ol said dismissively what would it be if not holy water she muttered under his breath I

won't let her ruin my plans then Grace interjected stepping forward wait that was is a bit harsh don't you think priests like her Our Saviors to us orphans don't be so rude I was just telling the truth Damen replied unwavering ug seriously calm down you too Ellie sighed but Ellie Damien protested damen's shoulders trooped Ellie thinks in her mind I know Daman I know you'd never say something like that if you didn't have a reason but Ali is a priest from the temple and the temple and the emperor are close allies we can't give them

a reason to Target you but if that's not holy water then what could it be and why did she try to give me that Ellie's thoughts raised the man beside her spoke again I know it's all my fault B but I felt it instinctively I just know that she's my daughter may snap grabbing him by the collar you can't make claims like that recklessly if you're telling the truth then what's your wife's name or the last place you met I don't know the man mumbled his voice faltered I've always lived as a Wanderer so I'm

not sure where it was and my wife used multiple aliases she never told me her real name Ellie thought well it's true that Wanderers changed their names from time to time my mother was an Infamous Thief to boot it makes sense that she wouldn't have revealed her true name his story matches up but may said sharply so you're saying you have no definite evidence Miss Ellie there's no reason to entertain this man's delusions any longer let's go home and make sure you're all right sister don't be so unfeeling Oly interjected this child and her parent

have been brought together through God's Providence as God's representative I will confirm their relationship through the use of holy water is that even possible Jared asked skeptically Aly explained but of course every human is born with mana mana is connected to one's blood thus if they let a couple of drops of blood fall into holy water which can measure Mana we'll be able to verify their relationship through its reaction however Ally continued I don't have any extra holy water with me so I'll have to ask the temple I need an answer from you before I

can ask my superiors for their approval she holds Ellie hand and continued what do you say would you like to find your family Good Sister after we run the manit test we'll be able to tell conclusively whether he's your father or not she won't want to Oly thought to herself smugly after all who would want to go along with a beggar like that but she'll avoid seeming heartless in front of all these people she concluded maybe I can help her make a decision faster she spoke I'm sure Duke shits also wants you to find your

real family Ellie replied I figured as much Ellie hesitated her thoughts racing how did this priest know that I'm living at Duke schutz's Castle Ellie's brow furrowed we took sir Jared's Carriage to the feline District today she shouldn't have been able to connect me with the shutz family like that unless she approached me with ulterior motives but that makes even less s Duke shs and the temple have had a rocky relationship for a long time this is because the temple used his Madness as an excuse to medle in house shs his Affairs but now this

priest wants to help a child under the Duke's protection I have to figure out what's going on here sister ay Ellie began cautiously since you mentioned his grace there's something I have to say about him he's fallen ill she replied is that so I'm not sure why Ellie continued her voice wavering but he says it's because the priest stopped visiting him if it's not possible for you to come and purify him then can you give me some holy water so I can deliver it to his grace what Al froze Ellie sniffled I want to repay

his grace for his kindness but I have nothing with which to do so Aly hesitated clearly flustered WL she grits her teeth thinking I was just going to make those two take the paternity test but now the tables have turned I can't believe this brat is it too hard of requests sister olley Ellie asked her voice soft but firm Asel felt moved by her words oh kind and virtuous priest Ellie said to herself think you can turn me down later back at the palace The Physician checked up on her he concluded all done did it

hurt at all not really Ellie replied with a faint smile I've already gotten used to the pain thank you she said inwardly I'm glad everything worked out sure I'll bring you the holy water in 4 days time Al added before leaving even though Grace still seemed upset Ellie thought I'll just have to talk to her once we solve this problem but more importantly ashelle and may stood before Ellie guilt written all over their faces it's all our fault we weren't paying enough attention you may punish us they pleaded what Ellie thought it was just an

accident Asel and may did nothing wrong I'm really fine she waved her hand to dismiss their worry Miss Ellie bua said gently even if if you claim that you're fine you still got hurt always tell us if you're injured no matter how insignificant it may seem both ashell and may Nots Ellie looked around noticing how much everyone genuinely cared about her she thought everyone here really seems to care about me just like baroness samanta even though I'm the daughter of a thief I'm just here as the female leads temporary replacement but they still care about

me so much why is that she pursed her lips shaking her head now's not the time to be getting emotional I need to sort out everything that happened today Ellie muttered glancing at Roa there's something I need to tell you Roa what why your real father Roa stammered Ellie sighed I'm still not certain it's him the priest is coming in four days to test whether it's true or not wh what should we do Roa asked Panic evident in her voice to think that something like this would happen when both the baron and his grace are

away Roa said on paper you still don't don't have a legal guardian so it'll be hard to reject the priest's proposal after all all orphans in the Empire receive protection from the temple but first things first I'll send an urgent letter to his grace don't worry about a thing Miss Ellie Roa reassured her just focus on getting enough rest all right thank you Ellie replied it's my pleasure this is what I'm here for Roa said warmly before turning to the others everyone follow me out Miss Ellie will probably need time to think think let's not

make it worse once they left Ellie turned to Daman you must be tired Daman let's head off to bed I'm not tired at all Daman replied quickly Ellie tilted her head oh right Damen was shaken up by what happened earlier she softened her tone you must have been scared don't worry that kind of thing won't happen again she gently patted his shoulder it's not about that Damen mumbled his fists clenching I just feel guilty if I if I hadn't let go of your hand you wouldn't have gotten hurt it's all my fault daman's voice wavered

his guilt overwhelming him Ellie reached out squeezing his hand Daman you have nothing to be sorry for he hesitated but seeing you feel so guilty makes me sad Ellie interrupted there's nothing you could have done to prevent what happened earlier but still what if I let go of your hand and you got hurt Ellie asked gently then would that be my fault and no Damen stammered shaking his head said vly see it was just an accident it wasn't anyone's fault I wish you wouldn't blame yourself Ellie said her voice filled with kindness it would upset

his grace too though it upsets me most of all of course Ellie said inwardly you shouldn't feel sorry Damian it's my fault after all none of these things happened in the original story I'm the reason why things are going to ey I'll do whatever it takes to fix everything so that I don't inconvenience anyone Ellie sniffled her voice barely above a whisper I think I'd like to have some hot cocoa Damian he asked hot cocoa she said yeah they won't let me have it because I've been eating too many sweets lately do you think you

could sneak out a cup and bring it to me of course I'll be right back Daman said dashing off alone Ellie's thoughts swirled if that young priest knows who I am then that means the temple probably does too does she know about my mom Ellie frowned scribbling notes furiously if she she did then the emperor would have found out by now and there's no way he'd keep so quiet so it's safe to say they don't know my identity yet then how much does the temple really know about me she pressed the seal on the letter

thinking I should throw some bait and see asterisk Ellie glanced at her seal I can't send it with an existing Noble family seal so I better fix it before it pre the door creaked open and Daman returned with a steaming cup Ellie I brought the hot cocoa thanks Damian Ellie grinned the servants didn't see you right he replied nope she said wow thank you I really appreciate it Ellie took a sip so he asked how is it Ellie she replied delicious thank you Damian she asked do you want to try some too oh sure Daman

said she said be careful it's hot Ellie handed him the cup her thoughts momentarily at peace after a few days ay came to the Duke's Palace in a carriage she gets off the carriage thinking this this is the first time I've been here since I entered the temple but as she glanced at the palace her resolve hardened shuts Castle it won't be long till this place becomes mine a few days ago Ellie contacted the temple she covered her head with a cloth before attempting she spoke testing testing am I speaking to the temple I gave

you a warning didn't I a response came from other side what do you mean who are you identify yourself Ellie said didn't you get a letter A few days ago notifying you of of a holy water Thief The Voice cracked a holy water Thief what are you another voice from the other side interrupted move aside hearing that Ellie realized so this person is in charge of holy water the other person asked um how did you come upon this informa Ellie cut him off you'd better hurry we can only hold them for so long the location

is written in the letter I sent to you the person replied all right I'm on my way the first voice questioned wait do you actually believe what she's saying where are you going wait father after that Ellie removed the covering from her head while saying this will do as a welcome gift now shall I go meet them meanwhile Aly was with the blond-haired person who impersonated being Ellie's father olley said to him hey just do the same thing you did last time the pay will be however much you want he smirked yes yes of course

you can count on me I promise I'll do a phenomenal job seeing that ay said inwardly you're nothing but a filth Street rat but not bad at putting on a pretty good performance as the fake father so that's good enough suddenly Ellie came with Daman and Roa and greeted her welcome sister ovy she replied Miss Ellie I hope you've been doing well how's your wound Ellie told I got it treated so it's fine now olley turned to Daman that's good to know and how are you Lord Daman Damen turned his head to show disapproval seeing

that Ellie called out L Lord Daman but ovy stopped it's fine I'm sure once the misunderstanding has been cleared up he will open up to me too by the way are we going to keep talking out here guests are usually shown to the drawing room aren't they so Roa replied oh pardon me this way please while inside walking royne said anyway I didn't know you would come here yourself sister ay ay replied is that so Roa added yes as you know it's been a long time since priests have stopped coming and his grace isn't here

at the moment hearing that of halted she asked I'm sorry his grace isn't here Roa said no he's overseeing matters at the duy he won't be back for another few days Aly turned her head while disappointed oh that's news to me she grits her teeth and said to herself I even use dark magic at the temple so that I could bring real holy water and Duke shits isn't here the blond-haired guy said to Ellie now now let's go inside she replied okay seeing that Oly concluded no this is good actually without the duke it would

be easier to kick that girl out after going inside oy looked around and said it's a lovely drawing room I can tell it's very well-managed after hearing that Roa thinks in her mind B priest she's acting like she's the lady of the house if his grace were Miss Ellie's father that priest wouldn't have set foot in this house wait what am I thinking it's disrespectful to the late lady Uria too she quickly shakes her head thinking about it then ay said then shall we start the test right away way I need to draw your blood

so please give me your arm Ellie hesitated seeing that ollyy said oh Mississippi Don't Be Afraid God is protecting you she replied um sister ovy could you give me a hug before we start I think it would ease my anxiety she agreed of course they hugged each other after that Ellie said thank you I feel relaxed now Al said then is it okay to start the test she agreed yes ol first extract some blood from the blond-haired guy with the help of knife she collects the blood in a contained with holy water the color of

the water changed and glowed red then she said to Ellie it's your turn now sister if the water turns red like just now that means you are his biological child hold out your arm please Ellie shows her arm seeing that Oly grin thinking I put her blood I collected last time in this fake holy water before coming here so no matter whose blood I drop into it it will turn the same color I shouldn't be laughing already but I can't help myself she then turned to Ellie and said aloud it's going to sting just a

bit she slit Ellie's arms so Ellie flinched abruptly due to which the vial of holy water fell and broke seeing that ay shouted in Anger what do you think you're doing Ellie stammered I am sorry I didn't mean to do that I was just startled by the pain she complained do you know how much effort I put into bringing this here this is why I can't stand children hearing that everyone present there gets shocked realizing what she blurted out Oly quickly retracted for forgive me it's a precious substance so I got over excited since we

won't be able to get this done today we should try again some other TI then Ellie began stepping forward by the way sister ay do you remember what you promised me last time ay asked do you mean the holy water for the Duke I tried but bringing two vials today proved to be a bit challenging but Ellie stopped her saying sorry but you did bring two the other ones in that robe hearing that a gets stunned how did she know I didn't take take it out because I didn't know how things would go wait don't

tell me was she checking what was inside my robe while pretending to embrace me she was about to begin you you but Ellie whispered near her ear you know something sister I never said I was staying at Duke schutz's Castle but you somehow found me here Ellie grinned and asked how did you know Ellie thought to herself in hindsight something was off about her from the beginning there were too many strange coincidences and the foul odor Damian smell was the nail in the coffin why would an Angelic priest give off a foul odor the answer

is simple this person is not a priest Ally panicked WL she touched her chest area by mistake the real holy water meant to cure the Duke was there she panicked kingly thought I can't weasel my way out of this what should I do what should I suddenly a servant came and informed Mr fron you might want to come outside fron asked what is it the servant said there's another priest at the door fron again again asked another priest hearing that ay felt the thump hitting her back what FR said let him in the priest came

and said I'm very sorry for the sudden visit I was informed that a priest who had stolen holy water was here I came as quickly as I could may I check the holy water first after hearing that FRS nodded certainly the priest stepped up to Ay and said sister ay please show me what you have in your robe she panicked no if they find out that I stole the holy water kicking me out will be the least they do to me she faltered saying I know nothing I just while backing out she looked towards Ellie

and thought it is all because of this wench I've worked so hard to get here she grits her teeth and shouted you you knew everything and called him here on purpose didn't you you little rat she grabbed Ellie in Anger she scoffed haha it's all over now as she said that she activated her black magic with purple light glowing around her she called out if I can't see shits then I'll just kill everyone everyone freaked out seeing the situation as the purple light covers the room Roa called out F father please do something the priest

was also bewildered D dark magic wh what should I do seeing Ellie in danger Damen quickly gets in front of Ellie shielding her ollyy glared at him so is she your new master but it's all over now so I don't need you anymore either with the sound of FO another light erupts a more darker and Sinister it covered the room an instant a sentenced them to die as the light engulfed them Ellie called out daman's name Damen but nothing happens to them as the Duke quickly came and shielded them from it seeing him Ellie called

Your Grace then the Duke asked what is all this commotion about seeing the Duke ofly staggered she spoke CHS what are you doing here I was just a knight of the Duke quickly rushed and apprehended her while restrained she said chuts I don't believe this why would shuts do this to me no this isn't right while she spoke Andy searched her and found a vial of holy water he showed it to the Duke and said Your Grace this was inside her robe seeing that the priest gasped th that's the stolen holy water then the Duke

grabs the vial and said I see now explain what were you trying to do to my children he turned to the blond-haired guy who pretended to be Ellie's father and said you there the guy replied why yes your grace th that girl is my daughter the Duke scoffed your daughter how funny if you're her father why aren't you protecting her especially when the manic bloodthirsty Duke shs is standing right in front of her as the Duke said that heits his ominous Aura then the Duke called Ellie she replied yes your grace he asked do you

really think he's your father I'm asking if you want to go with him after hearing that Ellie thought to herself to be honest even if he's my father I want to stay here but do I deserve to I don't think I do the Duke added the decision is up to you you can stay if you want being blood related doesn't always make you family then she spoke is that really okay I'm the daughter of a thief and everyone who knows hates me for it even I don't want myself I'm worthless do I have the right

to make a decision frons and the maids that were present there were shocked then Damian come close to her and said you do he grabbed her hand saying because you are not worthless Ellie seeing that the Duke added since he stole my line I'll just have to take care of this as an adult should an he apprehended the blond-haired guy and the Duke poured the holy water on him he gasped as he realized that he's caught the magic were off and his blonde hair turned green Ellie and the servants present were baffled to see that

the Duke said if you wanted to lie you should have at least masked that stench first the guy shouted I know nothing everything was her idea allyy countered what are you talking about I didn't do anything then the Duke asked are you sure forel she was shocked to hear that and asked H how did you know my family name he replied I guess even contaminated holy water has cleansing power he poured the remaining holy water in her he emerald eyes turned orange she spoke I can I can explain everything Your Grace if you would just

listen to who I am he cut her off take her away as the knights were taking her away she pleaded Your Grace please give me just one chance please after they left Ellie took a breath of relief it's finally over she then spoke thank you for comforting me Daman it made me feel a lot better Daman said I'm glad to hear that then the Duke called her Ellie she replied yes your grace she thought to herself come to think of it he told me not to get into any trouble is he going to scold me

he crouched in front of her and said I told you not to get hurt didn't I but you didn't listen she thinks in her mind it's barely an injury why does he look so upset as if the fact that I got hurt is more concerning than this terrible situation maybe that's why I feel strange she trembled and said Your Grace I'd like to rest now I'm a little tired as she said that she fell unconscious and the Duke caught her later The Physician checked up on her and reported to the duke it seems like it

triggered her trauma the Duke asked her trauma The Physician explained I can't make an accurate diagnosis since I couldn't have a conversation with Miss Ellie but it looks like she's been frequently exposed to situations like this for a long time this must have been her last straw after hearing that the Duke recalled her telling I will prove my usefulness to you my reality was worse than any nightmares he wondered what did Ellie look like whenever she said such things he scoffed ha how foolish of me she was just suppressing her pain and I had no

idea no adult should make a child say something like that later the Duke interrogated the priest from Temple he stomped on one the priest requested he please have mercy he said sorry I was a bit distracted what were you saying the priest again requested he please have mercy but the Duke doesn't stop and the priest screamed in pain ug he then turned to other priests and said I can't hear you very well do you understand what he's saying if you won't say it I'll just have to deal with you one by one other priest panicked

and said I it is all our fault we didn't know someone had stolen holy water because the person in charge of it did his job py the temple feels very responsible for this incident so as a way to make amends we will do anything you ask of us the Duke asked anything he puts more force in his foot and the priest again screamed he then said I will be sending the adoption approval papers to the temple soon one under the name shutz and one under a manta all you have to do is stamp your seals

on them you will also get marriage approval papers soon so keep that in mind after hearing that the priest whispered to each other I understand the adoption papers but what's with the marriage papers the other priest whispered back is that all right the Imperial Palace will definitely hear about the marriage one whispered it probably won't be all right but if we say no he'll kill us on the spot they replied then we will do as you say Your Grace the Duke said I'm glad we're in agreement then he activated his magic and chains engulfs around

their necks the priest realized th the oath Magic The Duke said so you know what it is priests die if they break this oath don't they the matter is settled then so they replied th thank you your grace meanwhile Ellie opened her eyes and found herself in a grassland she wondered I was at Duke schutz's Castle is this a dream the Moon is huge she was walking suddenly she heard voices get it don't let it get away don't kill it we must capture it alive she saw a person riding a nine-tailed fox the monster was

dashing as she saw her she wondered a monster why is it being chased seeing that Ellie Flinch thinking it saw me but if this is a dream why does that monster feel so real as she was worried bright Golden Light started emitting from her body she was wondering is this suddenly she jolted awake she looked and found this ceiling it looks familiar she Rises up thinking it's the room I share with Daman she reflected on as to what had happened that's right the Duke saved us from those people and revealed who they were then I

passed out what was that dream though my hands they were glowing Daman came holding the medicine in a bottle he dropped the medicine seeing Ellie awake and exclaimed Ellie you're awake are you okay he exclaimed as he hugged her tightly he added oh we should call the doctor quickly Ellie clasped his hands gently and reassured him I'm okay now Daman be but he stammered clearly worried I really am she insisted I feel like I've had a very refreshing nap did you bring that medicine for me he replied yes I was going to give it to

you when you woke up she said thank you it's nothing I was so scared he admitted tears welling up in his eyes I thought you might never wake up because I couldn't protect you she patted his head guilt washing over her oh no I made him cry she said I'm sorry I scared you it won't happen again then don't ever leave me alone again Ellie he sobbed looking at his tearful face she couldn't help but think I know it's wrong to think this way but he's seriously cute she remembered him saying you are not worthless

Ellie you always care so much about me I won't she promised I'll never get hurt again and will always stick to you like Lou just then Duke called out looks like he beat me to it again Ellie saidou Grace he asked you're up how are you feeling I'm fine thanks to you she replied grateful that's good he said kindly his demeanor surprised her she had thought he would scold her for causing trouble but instead he seemed relieved Ellie did you know who that priest was he asked I'm knew she had approached me with an agenda

although I didn't know who she really was she admitted he said then I assume asking for an extra vial of holy water was part of your plan too and that you had more than one reason for doing so she froze thinking he figured it out I asked for the holy water not only to expose A's cover with yuria gone holy water is the only thing that can cure schutz's Mania I wanted to take care of that as well but I guess it wasn't my place to do so she said I'm sorry your Grace I'll stay

out of this kind of trouble from now on he cut her off don't apologize I'm sure you thought you were doing the right thing I shouldn't have let you see me like that that day then you wouldn't have been interested in holy water he added she asked hesitantly Your Grace can I stay here he replied what a Fickle child you are she began I'm sorry he patted her head saying you came to me and said you wanted to be my daughter were you already thinking of leaving his attempt at Comfort awkward yet heartworn he added

just stay here and be a child happy and carefree tears welled up again seeing that he said I didn't know you were such a crybaby I'm not a crybaby she protested he teased you are both of you he said with a laugh meanwhile at the Royal Palace the emperor asked does that conclude your reports yes your majesty came the reply Emperor Ventus linari lenia his presence was imposing he muttered to himself peace is such a boring thing the thrill of slaughtering people with my sword is still fresh in my mind it's been 15 years since

the war ended although I successfully defended the Empire I could not get my hands on the thing I wanted most it no longer exists what a Pity he declared if there's nothing else today's meeting is now adjourned a voice interjected your majesty what is it the emperor asked his tone sharp he said count Rick Cal forel has asked to see you after getting the new the emperor shouted how incompetent can can you be count forel bowed and begged please spare me we didn't know it would go this wrong the emperor shows disgust impersonating a priest

of the Temple of all places and they got caught by shits if this gets out what would it do to the reputation of the Imperial Palace he thought to himself what shall I do for gel caused a big mess and if the temple or shutz finds out he works for me they might think I was behind this whole thing I must find a solution anything to get me out of this suddenly the EMP ESS carthia came and asked your majesty is everything all right I came to see what all the commotion was about said Empress

carthia lari lenia this doesn't concern you dear the emperor replied but your majesty your problems are my problems she stepped closer then count Fel bowed and said while trembling I shall take my leave your majesty seeing that the empress said it sounds to me like Fel made a big mistake is it true the emperor said inwardly she heard everything so what is she asking 4 the empress added don't worry your majesty at least that man came back with useful information he asked what are you talking about she replied the news that cider's son was found

shutz may have clouded judgment due to his manic disorder but how could he not report that to the emperor she clasped his arm saying house cider is no ordinary house it's a house that made a great contribution to the Empire's Prosperity thinking about what befell it breaks my heart the emperor scoffed thinking no one one in the Empire thinks cider's death was simply due to a carriage accident but she's putting on quite a performance if I didn't know any better I would have fallen for it too she menacingly added so why don't we help that

child carry on his family name he asked while shocked what are you saying we should let him inherit the merchant Guild she replied yes your majesty think about it marriage is the only way to continue the bloodline he argued but he's much too young she suggested so you should pick his spouse for him your majesty he agreed you're right your wisdom never fails to amaze me my dear ha he will be carrying on a prominent family so his spouse should be someone wise and thoughtful I'm sure that will make cider Rejoice from Heaven how lucky

I am to have you as a wife it must be a blessing from God she chuckled haha I am just happy that my insignificant opinions can be of help to you she hugged him and added I will continue to be that one person you can rely on your magic maest y so that you never seek any woman besides me she thought to herself I already suffered enough from a man's betrayal 15 years ago later Ellie woke up feeling ah I slept so well she was greeted by new Maids good morning Miss Ellie she replied yes

good morning wait where are the others one of them replied they have other matters to attend to we will be waiting on you for a while Miss Ellie hearing that she thought I see I wish they had told me beforehand it must have been an emergency though where is Damian by the way I always woke up first did I sleep in today she recalled the old maids thinking they have always been with me since I came to this Castle it feels strange to suddenly be all alone she shakes those thoughts away no they're still in

the castle so I'm not all alone she H off the bed saying I'm going to go to the bathroom the maid said then let us accompany Ellie requested I'd rather go by myself is that all right it's a privacy thing a maid replied your meal will be ready soon so please hurry back she said okay as she was wailing Ellie noticed something unusual she looked at the door that was glowing that looks like the entrance to the dungeon there are no guards at the front it must be because of that magic I guess his grace

cast it can I get closer she cautiously approached the door opened for her I think it's security magic that recognizes certain people when she opens the door she quickly covered her nose due to bad smell oh it smells bad I Can Tell She's still here where is she ug is this it she looked for ay and found her seeing her coming olly said oh the master has come down herself hello there did you come here to see me pretty girl seeing her crumbled Ellie thought dark magic is as dangerous as it is powerful since it

goes against the natural order of the world it requires a brutal price in return this is what it meant she said I'm here because there's something I want to ask you who else knows about Daman how much do they know the woman repli replied that's what you're most curious about most people ask about me first Ellie said because I already know your Olia for gel hearing that she paused for a moment then said you're no ordinary girl are you Ellie recalled in the original story she appears around the same time as ashelle does had it

not been for Duke shutz I would have never known a villain whose love for Duke shutz drove her to commit all kinds of evil acts her name was Livia forel she asked has the emperor always been in on this your father too the woman replied you even know who my father is I'm impressed but sadly for you she blinked now I don't even have the energy to speak Ellie warned if you don't speak you'll die she replied now you're threatening me haha you remind me of someone she staggers while standing all right the emperor doesn't

know about this because the pipe that the snake loves isn't here Ellie wondered the snake the pipe then ay chuckled listen I've devoted my whole life to getting to sh's Castle so I'm glad that this is where I'm going to die she suddenly extends her hand towards Ellie and said pretty girl ah your eyes it's definitely a pretty enough color for him to miss forever and ever saying that she dropped and never woke up again Ellie was surprised at first but then calmed down after witnessing what happened to Livia and returning from the dungeon Ellie

found herself in an awkward situation the Duke was caressing her at every moment it was to this moment that she felt annoyed should I come fetch you every time the Duke asked I hurt my arm not my legs Ellie replied frustrated he ignored her squishing her cheek I've been feeding you so much but I can still pick you up with one arm you need to eat way more she squirmed I can walk he said and I can't believe I've been missing out on this until now I should ban everyone else from touching your cheeks so

only I can touch them she sigh he's not listening she was relieved that the emperor didn't know who she was yet but with the temple involved it was only a matter of time before the truth came out she needed to secure funds and prepare for the worst the next day the same situation unfold the Duke carried her poking her cheeks the door creaked open Ellie was wondering is he going to do this all day Baron am Manta and Sir Jared appeared seeing them she brightened up she called Baron am man sir Jared Miss Ellie the

baron began bowing deeply forgive me I didn't raise my son right Jared plead I'm sorry I will never do anything to put You In Harm's Way Again Miss Ellie Jarrett looked remorseful forgive me Miss Ellie he said Softly She blinked thinking is he apologizing about Livia Jared hadn't known what would happen and thanks to him we were able to catch Livia sooner than in the original story I was the one who agreed to visit the marketplace after all it's all right she said trying to reassure him please get back up Duke's voice cut in Ellie

don't accept apologies so easily you are about to become a member of House shuts since they failed to protect you they deserve to be punished her breath caught oh she realized every little thing I do will have an impact on house schutz's image from now on even though I'm just a temporary daughter-in-law I must act the part she replied I will be careful from now on your grace as you should he replied stretching then without missing a beat he added hang Jarrett's head outside the castle this instant gasps filled the room no she cried please

Your Grace don't hurt Baron Amant and Sir Jarrett she said inwardly the mind can't function without them she requested with teary eyes please he remained unmoved no she pouted then I'm skipping lunch today she wiggled trying to get down and put me down I want to get down with a reluctant sigh he finally relented I will give you a pass just this once Baron Amant and Sir Jared quickly bowed in gratitude Baron said thank you your grace Miss Ellie Jared added thank you Miss Ellie she demanded and let the maids go too they're nice people

I want to be with them at first she thought the maids had left to take care of some matter but seeing sir Jared and baron amanta made her realize they were being punished for failing to protect her she regretted not being nicer to them especially since she hadn't even had the chance to give them the gifts she got for them during her first outing all right the Duke said his voice softening I will do as you say so stop crying she asked you will yes so calm down your cheeks get all puffy when you're angry

he teased she sniffled managing a small smile she thinks what a relief I thought I might lose everyone I'm so glad that's not happening later they gathered for lunch Daman said I was told to come have lunch Ellie ran to him and patted him Damian were you training then the Duke announced everyone's here then let's get down to business the Duke said Baron a manle will officially adopt Ellie soon Baron said as a matter of fact I was planning and discussing the right timing with you he asked are you going to prepare for the wedding

right after the adoption the Duke replied yes the news must have reached the Imperial Palace by now so we should hurry before they start playing dirty Baron replied understood then Baron and Jared turned to Ellie Baron am man said we look forward to being your family Jared added Miss Ellie welcome to the family she replied cheerfully thank you Damian said me too then the Duke said with a serious face glaring at Baron just so you know it's on paper only after the wedding Ellie's last name will be shutz so her real family is house shoots

Ellie felt chills down her spine then she asked Daman did you hear that Daman we're going to be a real family do you like that his eyes sparkled a real family with Ellie I love it then she said if you love it so do I looking at them happy the Duke smiled Ellie became Baron amant's adoptive daughter today is the day Ellie visited house samanta to finish the process she bowed pleased to have become your family Baron Amant and brother Damian accompanied her as her future husband she asked I would like to see the baroness

before I leave where is she Jared replied she's not feeling well so she's resting in her room Ellie asked is she seriously ill Jared said no but please try to understand she's really sad that she can't see you Ellie drooped all right Jared added the only thing left now is the wedding she replied yes I heard we need his Majesty's approval but it will work out right Baron cleared his throat and said Duke shuts is in charge of these proceedings even the emperor can't go against the Duke easily so don't worry although there might be

slight conflict Ellie thought to herself clashing with the emperor is a slight Conflict for him that's the shs I know she said thoughtfully then we'll head back to shuts Castle now that reminds me our Carriage got dirty on our way here Jared replied do you mean the dirt from the police Ed Land it should have been wiped off by now Ellie gets amazed already I heard it doesn't come off easily Jared nodded his head feeling proud it doesn't with regular cloth but with this you can wipe it off almost completely he presented a tree bark

to Ellie she was shocked is that tree bark she asked is that tree bark Jared answered yes it's the bark of a tree called rugal she asked rubal he explained looking towards it it's a tree that symbolizes the East the only unique characteristic is that the inner bark is white she asked surprised what's a tree of the East doing in the north he replied this was the last present Duke shirs received from duke cider we were given saplings and grew many rugal trees at our house that one over there is a new sapling she repeated

in her mind a present from duke cider to Duke shutz Jared smiled as for what this tree bark can do it would be better for me to show you than to tell you she replied all right show me he demonstrated when you pour water on the bark like this as you can see it all gets absorbed she was genuinely amazed that's fascinating Jared said isn't it we were blown away at first too however please don't tell Duke shutz about this he's very fond of this tree so I don't think he'll appreciate knowing what it's being

used for she agreed I won't tell him sure in return can I take some of this tree bark with me Jared asked it's not a problem but what do you need it for she said I'm going to take a bunch and help Roa with it he felt touched that's very thoughtful of you all right I will send it to sh's Castle soon or do you want me to bring it to you in person if you need I can bring you all the rugal tree bark we have the baron cut him off that's enough Jared while

escorting her to the carriage he said I apologize on behalf of my silly son Ellie said no please don't apologize thank you and please give my regards to the baroness for me after she gets inside the carriage she remembered come to think of it Baron Amant is my family now even if only on paper maybe I should call him something else given his age she waved from the window and shouted see you next time Grandpa Baron smiled at first Grand Grandpa he loved it so much after she returned to the castle she felt exhausted she

said aloud it was a short visit but I'm already exhausted Damen went to study even at a time like this I'm proud of him suddenly she heard steps of someone coming she turned saying oh I'm going to rest by missile she froze looking at them Roa and other Maids were looking malnourished she looked at them in shock Roa called Miss Ellie Ellie said I'm so glad you were released royne said from what we heard it's all thanks to you Miss Ellie how could we ever repay you for your kindness Ellie clenches her fist saying no

I I'm not someone who deserves such gratitude from you she said to herself it's okay I have to tell them now I can't keep lying to people who have been so good to me she continued as you heard that day I am the daughter of a thief everyone was shocked and Miss Ellie Alie continued I kept it a secret from you on purpose because I knew that if it got out everyone would hate me but I don't want to deceive anyone anymore I like it here and I like everyone so so tears started falling from

her face she said inwardly I want to stay here but that last sentence was not something she could say easily because if they accept her the Imperial Palace will antagonize them even more she trembled saying I I just Roa stepped forward and stopped her she said Miss Ellie we may not be as powerful as his grace but we're still occupants of sh's Castle we have a duty to protect you Ellie asked does that mean royne filled in we knew the whole time the day you came to this Castle his grace told us about it we

didn't say anything because we didn't want you to be concerned so don't worry we'll be by your side like we always are until you can finally be comfortable around us I should rephrase that we will work harder so that you feel comfortable ordering us around Ellie felt touched so they knew they knew everything from the beginning and they still she quickly hugged Roa and asked then can I stay Roa replied yes we're here for you Miss Ellie Ellie cried in her arms then Ellie gave all of them their presents in the greenhouse Ellie observed the

tree bark I didn't expect sir Jared to bring me this much tree bar not only can I help Roa with this but with enough research I can also have Financial Freedom and Independence then Damian came holding a flower wreath he called Ellie I made the wreath she gets surprised already let's see if you did a good job she put it on and asked him what do you think does it look good on me he smiled it sure does suddenly she noticed by the way Damian you seem to have grown a bit taller you used to

be about this High she teased pointing with her hand he panicked I wasn't that short she replied I'm kidding of course you were taller than this she chuckled suddenly someone interjected oh what a pretty wreath she bowed greetings Lord Daman it is an honor to meet you my name is wintia salom if it's okay may I make reads with you Ellie asked surprised wintia salom who wintia replied yes I am the daughter of Viscount salom and my family is distantly related to house cider Ellie wondered distantly related to cider so why is she here I'm

sure it's not easy for Duke shs to block these people from visiting if he hides Damen it might raise their suspicions witi asked so can I make flower reads with you Damen glared at her hesitating Ellie observed Damian doesn't seem fond of her so I want to say no but it wouldn't do well if we got on the bad side of cider's vassals and no matter what the relationship between the two houses is she's just a kid around our age there's no need to create unnecessary conflict she said why don't we let her join Daman

he protested but Ellie pressed with her sparkling eyes please he gave in and nodded wintia said wow I'm so glad Ellie said then I'll teach you how to make a wreath first you pick the flowers you want wintia ignored her and stepped up to Damian and asked what flowers do you like Lord Daman Ellie was puzzled huh didn't she hear me wintia suggested I think this flower would look good on you there are a lot of of flowers in this greenhouse that resemble you can you tell me about them Damen excused I'm not too familiar

with this place either Wier requested but you know more than I do please seeing that Ellie offered I can give you a tour around the greenhouse Miss wintia she refused I want to be guided by Lord Damian not a servant Ellie froze thinking did she say servant so earlier she heard what I said but deliberately ignored me she spoke bowing excuse me for not introducing myself earlier Miss wintia I am the newly adopted daughter of Baron amanta Ellie amanta she said inwardly not a servant mind you wintia retracted oh my please pardon me I should

have known Ellie replied how could you have how Samantha's adoption is not public knowledge yet so it's fine wintia said thank you for being so understanding you're very kind then Miss Ellie could you help me make a wreath I'm not good at making things with my hands unfortunately Ellie replied of course then they started roaming in the greenhouse looking for flowers suddenly wintia saw roses oh those roses look good Ellie said Miss wintia roses have thorns so you might hurt yourself why don't you pick a different but she dashed away saying then I'll just have

to be careful Ellie shouted from behind Miss wintia slow down while sprinting she stumbled and fell Ellie shouted worried Miss wintia wintia started sobbing Ellie reached out to her are you okay can you stand up she sobed sobed it hurts it hurts so bad Ellie said thankfully you didn't get pierced by any Thorns it could have been much worse so please be careful from now on wintia tried to say something but then she wailed seeing that Damian said she must be in a lot of pain let's take her to the doctor Ellie agreed okay then

wintia said but my legs hurt can you help me Damian sigh I'll do it Ellie he carried her with himself wintia said Thank You Lord Daman Ellie said take her to the doctor 's office Damian I'll go get the adults suddenly someone came calling miss wtia the nanny approached and said my goodness what happened are you all right WIA tried to reason Nanny instead nanny said you disappeared without a word do you know how scared I was and now you're all disheveled wintia began I'm sorry I just but Nanny Cut Her Off turning towards Ellie

and Daman who are these people wintia said Nanny don't they were kind enough to play with me until now seeing that Ellie thinks what is this they're the guests yet she's wary of us wintia continued and I got hurt because I was careless nanny said you're so kind-hearted Miss wintia but I can't let this slide How could a servant just stand there and let Miss wintia get hurt I will tell his grace Duke shutz about this and hold you responsible suddenly someone interjected hold who responsible Nanny gasped ah Your Grace the Duke asked stepping forward

did I just hear that correctly you're in my castle saying you'll hold my children responsible responsible for what then the Nani bowed deeply and my apologies Your Grace please please forgive me he said I'm not the one you should be asking for forgiveness he nodded towards Ellie and Daman she turned to them I have made a terrible mistake please forgive me then Viscount salom came shouting wintia I told you not to go off on your own she called father he questioned now how are you going to apologize for your disrespect and what happened to your

clothes she replied I fell down while looking at the flowers in the greenhouse Viscount shouted again we have plenty of flowers back home but you never looked at them why did you behave so unlike yourself today she replied I thought the Roses would look good on his grace he asked what she explained again I thought the red roses would look good on him so I wanted to give them to him myself she conjured a rose with her magic and said but this is all I got I'm sorry the Nobles besides the Viscount started whispering to

each other she hurt herself while trying to get a gift other murmured what a kind-hearted young lady and she's good at Magic too one said I heard that the late Duchess was very fond of red roses hearing that Ellie concluded that's why the greenhouse is so well-managed and the reason wintia insisted on getting red roses wintia plead it's all my fault I'm sorry I went off on my own she asked can you forgive me nanny nanny replied and miss miss wintia miss wintia seeing the situation Ellie thinks this is making us look like the villains

their are family about to be executed and Damian and I are the executioners so if we're harsh with them people are going to accuse us of being heartless kids they're always looking for a chance to tear Damian down and I can't give it to them she spoke we're okay Miss salame please don't cry wintia replied hesitatingly but Ellie said we weren't offended at all so don't worry I just feel bad that I couldn't get the roses for you WIA asked confused pardon Ellie continued you mistook me for a servant didn't you you didn't know me

so I understand and I should have been thoughtful enough to get the roses for you witha wasn't able to answer I Ellie continued it's all right it was just a misunderstanding next time let's try getting roses from a higher spot she clasped her hand and continued they're prettier since they get more sunlight I noticed you were very good at Magic with your magic you will be able to get them with no trouble and you won't fall down you only forgot to use that magic today didn't you next time I will be more helpful witi smiled

I would love that if you would be kind enough to invite me here Miss Ellie hearing that the noble chattered aha so miss wintia was just confused it was their first time meeting so that's understandable then wintia trembled noticing that nanny said forgive me but miss wintia is hurt and needs to be treated Your Grace my Lord please excuse exuse us she embraced wintia and took her along later Viscount Salone shouted how dare you disgrace your father like that you have no right to Cry wintia jolted tears came to her eyes her father continued w

at the very least you could have been more subtle anyone could tell you hurt yourself on purpose her nanny said my Lord please calm down he slapped her get away from me viscom thinks to himself was I too easy on her while she was growing up why is she so careless or maybe I could use this mess to my advantage after thinking he said to wintia stop crying she replied I'm just sad he asked about what bowing to someone for the first time he tapped on her shoulder and said I know how that feels as

a distant relative of Duke cider I have lived my entire life in his shadow after he died I thought I finally had a chance but it was ruined by that damn well he left but there is still hope for you wintia never forget today's humiliation some orphan girl tried to take your place so you should make her pay if you succeed his majesty will be happy too and how solom will be forever glorified WIA imagined my place not hers but mine she said understood father I won't let you down the next day Roa prepared Ellie

for an outing she instructed it's cold so you shouldn't stay out for too long as Ellie left Roa heard people talking nobles were happy as Heron arrived one asked is he really here here other replied yes with him we'll be able to get Lord Daman back from shutz this count salame said do you understand wintia just do what you have to I'll take care of the rest she replied yes Father they welcomed Heron welcome welcome sir please come this way the head of the merchant Guild and the late Duke Kiper's Mentor Haron Hooper later WIA

approached Damien oh Lord Damian how wonderful it is to see you again today how have you been he ignored her she pressed uh Lord Damian seeing no response she wondered did he not see me she stopped him by grabbing his hand Lord Damian I finally got your attention I have called you a few times but you didn't acknowledge me he asked who are you she replied confused pardon I'm WIA salame we met in the greenhouse last week don't you remember he remembered o she felt happy he remembers me at last she said I came here

to apologize for my rudeness last week also I wanted to befriend you he snatched his hand away saying don't touch me without permission she was shocked I'm sorry suddenly Roa came there and called lord Damian Miss Ellie left a note for you he brightened up hearing that the letter says how was your training today I'm sure you've worked very hard because that's how you are I have to go outside by myself for a while I'm sorry I couldn't tell you in person it won't take long see you when I get back after reading the letter

he chuckled she always treats me like a child Woulda tried to call Lord Daman instead he turned and said to his guards we're going back to the training Hall the guard asked pardon but you've trained tirelessly since this morning Daman said Ellie told me to work hard so that's what I'm going to do the guard asked again uh Lord Damian are you really going back what more does he have to do they followed him standing behind when Tia clenches her fist thinking did he just ignore me all because of that servant looking girl I'll never

forgive her meanwhile Ellie was in the forest near the lake she was thinking I didn't get to hear what tum was making again today she thought it doesn't matter as long as he's not neglecting his Forge for something else her footsteps were making crunch sound while she walked she thinks in her mind anyway I'm almost done verifying the effects of rugal but how can I show it to them without looking weird she thought to say it casually I found it on the way she realized that won't do nothing is easy suddenly something hit her then

someone appeared from the bushes she fell to the ground behind her was the Red Lake she felt pain there was a stone inside the snowball wtia conjured a stone with her magic and blamed it's all your fault without you I would have been Duke schutz's daughter-in-law she attacked Ellie with the stone Ellie quickly dodged it it was a close call she asked wintia why are you doing this and who told you that she shouted my father and Nanny and Ellie questioned and who they're the only one ones aren't they she said in Rage no everyone

said so you don't know anything she scoffed well I guess it doesn't matter because today will be the last day you can covet what's mine with her magic she makes the water of the Lake Float she continued that's right I'm going to tell my father you push me into that lake and you'll end up being known as the girl who tried to hurt me out of jealousy but tripped and drowned in the lake the drops started falling on her from the floating water she said ominously you can't even walked properly anyway since you hurt your

leg seeing that Ellie asked how are your eyes wintia asked what Ellie said that water hurts your eyes when it touches them she replied what the hell are you suddenly wintia groaned in pain a what have you done you wretch Ellie replied it's not what I've done you brought this on yourself wintia shouted no it's all your fault why do you keep getting in my way why you're just a filthy orphan Ellie asked our orphans filthy she replied yes my father said that orphans are filthy uncultured beings that do nothing but taint the Empire because

of Filth like you I Ellie Cut Her Off shouting tum then crows appeared in the sky flapping their wings as they C WIA asked confused what are those Ellie said those crows I called them wintia asked what Ellie stood up and went close to her wintia if you didn't want to be involved with a filthy orphan then you shouldn't have messed with with her don't you think so Ellie smiled you want to know something else crows like people more than you might think don't you want to know just how much should I bring them closer

as she said that the crows got close to wintia and she got afraid she trembled and said no stay AWA she stumbled and fell unconscious seeing her Ellie said to herself oops I was only trying to scare her a little she said tum can you help me move her to the castle the meeting room in Duke shoots his castle viscom thinks in his mind I can't let them take away house cider from me in order to prevent that I must first bring cider's son to this side he glanced at Heron what is Lord Heron thinking

does he really want to protect house cider the door creaked open and the Duke came he said apologies for being late he sat on his chair and the Viscount began getting everyone's attention a hem Your Grace we have all agreed that his talk got interrupted by knocking on the door Damen came in the meeting and bowed I'm here then the Duke said I called him here because I thought we should also hear what the child had to say the noble man besides the Viscount salame said oh it is an honor to meet you again Lord

Damian Duke cider would have been so happy to see this seeing Damen Viscount grinned he surely is around winch's age Damen doesn't reply and sits on a chair seeing that the Duke thinks Damien is barely even acknowledging those old foxes if Ellie had seen this she wouldn't feel the need to be overprotective of him anymore so cute then again Viscount gets everyone's attention ahem ahem in any case we are truly grateful that you have done such a wonderful job looking after Lord Damian the Duke asked why should you be grateful that is my duty as

his Guardian so what is it that you were trying to tell me hearing that the Nobles flinched then Viscount salomé stood up and said while hesitating oh well we were trying to ask you Lord Damian to return to us and if that is difficult for the sake of solidarity between the merchant guilds we demand a marriage between Lord Daman and my daughter the Duke scoffed I haven't heard such bullsh asterisk te in a long time the Viscount shouts how how could you say that your grace all we want is for Lord Damian to return to

his normal life as quickly as possible the Duke countered you don't even care what his life has been like so far or what he's gone through and you're claiming to have the child's best interests at heart how is it not bull asterisk tea the Viscount argued if you won't agree to our terms then we have no choice but to strongly demand that you return Lord Damian to us he asked what his grace Duke cider left you in his will was the merchant Guild not Lord Daman isn't that right the Duke said tightening his grip you

are overstepping your lines you don't deserve to say cider's name as the atmosphere gets heated suddenly the door bursts open Roa came and shouted forgive me for interrupting your grace Miss Ellie and Miss wintia have been badly injured after hearing that the chaos erupts the Viscount jumps in shock W what everyone rushed to them after reaching there Daman rushed to Ellie he grabbed her by arms and asked Ellie are you hurt what happened are you in pain she replied calmly I'm okay Daman I was just the Viscount also reached to her daughter and asked oh

my goodness wintia wintia are you all right she sobbed F father hick H and G seeing her Ellie thought what a performance I'm the one who got hurt wintia hugged her father and cried W analyzing the situation the Viscount grinned thinking this is good here's a chance to bring everyone onto my side he shouted turning to Ellie please stop this why do you keep tormenting my daughter the Nobles besides them started murmuring did he say keep did something else happen wintia said while crying father I'm so scared I want to go home the Viscount said

don't cry WIA oh my poor baby Ellie realized no at this her thought were interrupted by the Duke he approached to the Duke and said furiously enough let me answer your question with another question what have you done to my child Ellie was in shock thinking my child Win Li lied I I only wanted to befriend Miss Ellie but Miss Ellie pushed me into the lake the chattering again started in this freezing weather that's why her dress has turned red how could anyone be so cruel the vism complained I can't just let this slide your

grace since she is in your your care you must take responsibility the Duke asked responsibility you said the Viscount replied hugging her daughter why yes my daughter could have died all because of that lowly little girl I have half a mind to kill her missile as he was speaking Damian stood up grabbed a water cup and poured it on viscount's head the Viscount was in shock at his action he rubbed his face shouting uh Lord Damen what is the meaning of this someone get a towel Daman spoke pouring water on you doesn't get you fully

soaked the Viscount asked pardon Damian explained if I had pushed you into a lake you would have been soaked from head to toe but you're just a little wet just like your daughter both wintia and Viscount flinched the Viscount answered WL that could be because winch's dress has dried by now it's not an ordinary lake so the water might dry faster then Ellie interjected that's strange then why is only the top part of her dress soaked red I'm sure everyone is wondering the same thing do you want me to reenact the scene to see if

Miss wintia is telling the truth the Nobles present there whispered to each other it is strange now that I think about it it looks like Miss wintia is lying another added how dare she in front of his grace Lord Heron was calmly observing the situation Ellie continued you shouldn't tell lies Miss wintia even though we were in the forest someone might have seen us wintia got reminded of the crows she clenches her fists thinking no this isn't my fault why is everyone looking at me like that I she spoke but father told me she wailed

he said Lord Daman should be mine this count tried to stop her W wincha wintia continued but Lord Daman kept giving me the cold shoulder I have no doubt it was because that girl made him do so so what's wrong with me punishing her Viscount again tried W wincha stop she wailed why does everyone always blame me why why hearing that the Duke got Furious his Aura started emitting then the Nobles returned to their accommodations one said how foolish of the salame family to try to hurt a child and Duke shits his care other said

anyway I don't think this is a good time to have the meeting first replied that's right we don't want to Bear the blame for what they did sadly we will have to come back another time after they left the room the Duke grabbed Ellie foot and said you get hurt every day when are you going to stop making my heart drop she played smiling I it doesn't hurt that much then Daman said Ellie you broke the promise again you said that you weren't going to get hurt that it would never happen again he was looking

gloomy seeing that Ellie thinks he looks really angry she said I'm sorry Daman I'll be very careful from now on she turned to the Duke I'm sorry your grace I'll be more careful the Duke doesn't reply seeing that she thinks he doesn't trust me she murmured but I mean it then the Duke patted her and said I'm not trying to scold you so don't look so sad sad I'm only worried this is only the beginning things like this will keep happening and once people find out whose daughter you are they will become even more vicious

hearing that she thinks he's right and if I'm around their lives will be harder too I guess I have to then the Duke said but I'm going to protect you so you have to trust me and don't do anything dangerous to prove yourself she began but but the Duke Cut Her Off saying did you think I took the two of you in without any plans I'm going to be the adult all you two have to do is run around and play in the vast nature all day and go to bed at night looking forward to

an exciting new day that's what children are supposed to do he asked do you understand I can't tell from your facial expression she replied smiling I do you don't want me to get hurt like today exactly she thinks in her mind is this how it feels to have a father having someone who accepts me for who I am she turned her head thinking then I should also do something for a child who wants seemed indifferent but now cares deeply about me even though the first thing he learned in life was resignation she turned to Damen

and puts her hand on his face she said Damian I will always be on your side I will be your shield and protect you from anyone who tries to hurt you so do you want to get married he gets shocked huh Ellie continued if we become husband and wife no one will be able to mess with you and it will be easier for you to receive a title he cut her off H hold on does that mean we will be in a relationship like the one you talked about before he blushed as he said that

Ellie thinks in her mind should I have prepared a ring it's a proposal after all she ask you don't want to he shouts I do I just he hesitated at first and said okay Ellie asked really you said yes you can't take it back okay both of them clasped each other's hand then Daman said okay then the Duke frowned you're very efficient hearing that Ellie wondered who me the Duke patted Damian and said I'm sure this will make him very happy too seeing that she realized oh he was talking to Damian why shouldn't he say

that to me she stared at him thinking but who does the duke mean by him then someone knocks the door the Duke said speak of the devil how did he know I was talking about him he said come in the door creaked open and Lord Heron walked in he introduced himself it's an honor to see you again my name is heron Hooper I will be taking care of the two of you from now on Ellie remembered Heron Hooper oh I remember the fact that the merchant Guild has continued to be successful even after Duke C's

death is all thanks to that man Heron Hooper that's why he was more passionate about verifying Damian's suitability than anyone and Damen went through a terrible ordeal because of it it was only when Damen turned 15 and fought in the War with his father that Heron Hooper finally accepted him as the rightful Heir in other words Heron hoop Cooper's appearance means that she imagined him saying I will not tolerate this marriage she thinks he is waiting for us too bad we ran into an obstacle right after the proposal unlike wintia this man is not to

be underestimated still if Duke shs introduced him to us it means he's not just going to be a harmful force in our lives she concluded that's right he is fiercely loyal to cider so if we can get him on our side he will provide a good stepping stone for Damian and come someone I can rely on as well for now I should try my best not to make him wary of me Ellie bowed greetings Lord Heron my name is Ellie I'm pleased to meet you she was determined thinking I am also someone who will win

you over soon later Heron asked her to come to a room she went inside and was amazed to see all the toys and deserts there she said aloud it looks like all the toys in the world are gathered in this one room she looked around and observed and just look strawberry cream cake pancakes topped with chocolate syrup fluffy pudding under a glistening layer of caramel syrup that frozen yogurt with peach slices looks really good two she thinks if I were a real child I would feel like I was in heaven why did Heron call me

here there must be a reason he asked to see me in private as she walked a candy basket was lying on the floor she picked it up thinking it's okay if I have just one right she stated eating one suddenly the door opened and Heron said good afternoon Miss Ellie she turned to him him hello Lord Heron he asked weren't you bored waiting by yourself she replied smiling no the delicious candy kept me company he chuckled that's a relief now please have a seat she replied yes sir after she sat down on sofa she thinks

I wonder what he wants to talk to me about it's making me nervous he began then before we start the lesson May I have a piece of candy too she froze in shock and asked confused I'm sorry then she quickly replied ah yes sure she grabbed the basket and said here but she paused thinking wait I should never take anything he does at face value she said on second thought no she thinks in her mind he couldn't have called me here by myself for no reason I am an orphan who became a Duke's adopted daughter

overnight I went from the lowest of the low to a place everyone is ous of so you must be worried that the more I got used to people bowing to me the more arrogant or cunning I had become he has asked to have something from this basket even though there are so many other desserts in the room it's part of the test in that case she smiled and said instead please allow me to offer you this fluffy pudding the syrup on this pudding adds an extra taste and it's soft so it's going to be easier

on your teeth she responded with kindness and respect Haron said my teeth are in fact a little weak now that I'm old thank you for being considerate Miss Ellie she giggled and said hehe and I like these candies so much I wanted them all to myself she responded with honesty befitting of a child she thinks that should do it Heron gazed at her and said I see thank you for the pudding Miss Ellie he smiled as he said that she replied you're welcome both of them started having their deserts then Haron said my granddaughter loves

pudding too Ellie asked you have a granddaughter he replied yes she loves sweets she's around Miss winch's age hearing that she thinks everyone had a hard time even been mentioning winch's name because of what happened earlier I knew Heron was different he put down the pudding and said Miss Ellie to tell you the truth I didn't ask you to come here for a lesson would it be too much of an imposition to ask you to forgive the salame family she blinked as he continued as you saw in the greenhouse that day the Salam possess powerful

psychokinesis that has been passed down through generations and that power has made the distribution of the merchant Guild's Goods a lot easier as such without the Al's help the merchant Guild would find itself in a tough position although their punishment is welld deserved since they tried to harm you after listening her mind raced Heron is not wrong but he wouldn't dare ask the Duke to spare their lives that's why he came to me if I asked the Duke he might change his mind now then how should I respond what answer is going to satisfy him

Heron observed her as she was busy in thought he thought she's taking a long time her handling of the Salam and offering me a pudding just now had me believe she knew exactly how to deal with the person in front of her so I thought she might be of great help to Lord Damian in the future but she's shaken by this simple request he sighed thinking was I wrong about her he then pulls out a paper from his robe and showed it to her he said if you agree with me please sign this paper I

implore you Miss Ellie she simply signed on it with and returned it here you go he replied thank you he took a look at the paper and thins she's a child after all he then said our time is up thank you for the delicious dessert Miss Ellie as he stood up Ellie also hop off the sofa she replied you're welcome Haron then she raised her hand asking when is our next lesson i' prefer it to be soon she smiled because I want to share delicious desserts with you again he looked at her disappointment and said

I will discuss the schedule with his grace and let you know she replied all right as he walked away he thinks in his mind what an innocent and lovely child that's why she wrote her name on the paper herself but my verification is complete as he opened the door and stepped out he said aloud too bad I really enjoyed the pudding later he showed the paper to the Duke the Duke asked Ellie signed this Haron said yes she signed it of her own valtion please keep your promise now the Duke said she wouldn't sign it

without thinking he recalled him saying if the girl you brought signs this fake document I want you to retract your punishment for the salams the Duke replied are you underestimating Ellie then the outcome has already been decided he smirked and said as you wish looking at the paper Heron thinks the Duke has complete trust in her but he can't deny that signature the read the signature ellia Manta cider herard shs after reading it he laughed he said Haron it looks like Ellie has completely outsmarted you Heron asked confused I'm sorry the Duke said read this

signature again he took another look I don't see anything wrong with it the Duke said there is nothing wrong with the signature itself that's why you've lost Heron asked again pardon I don't follow the Duke explained it says right there cider in the Empire signatures end with the name of the head of the family so right now all Ellie has to write as ellia Manta and although Damen has been adopted by me he is still Duke cider's Son by writing cider art shuts at the end of her signature and giving it to you she made

you acknowledge the fact she is Damian's wife but Ian is a CER as well Haron read the signature again Elli amanta CER herart shoots his face turned pale the Duke grinned didn't I tell you not to underestimate Ellie then Heron gets back to the room Ellie greeted him you're back lord Heron seeing her there he asked have you been expecting me she replied yes I knew you'd return he asked then did you know that I was testing you she answered yes I did after hearing that he thinks then the outcome has already been decided his

his grace was right I've lost he then bowed let me reintroduce myself I am Heron Hooper and I will be taking care of you from now on she then smiled and said nice to meet you Lord Heron after a few days Heron started tutoring Ellie as Damian continued his training today's lesson was about Society Heron explained so in a class Society like ours there is nothing more important than a title as you can see here Ellie was heeding his words and writing it down she thinks in her mind I thought he was going to teach

me the role of the lady of the house but the lessons are more focused on economics he said but Miss Ellie you should consider the value of money more than the value of titles he stepped up to her saying because once the market expands and the value of money drops classes will be a thing of the past she asked really he replied yes but wealth inequality will worsen as the number of poor peasants increases the nobility will only get richer analyzing the information Ellie said there are a lot of female employees in The Cider Merchant

Guild Heron replied yes as long as someone is qualified to work in our Guild we hire them whether they are male or female although the system is still in the works we are looking for ways to ensure female employees job security after hearing that she felt gloomy she said inwardly I see that's amazing Haron but I'm sure female employees still have a hard time working here because of a deep rooted Prejudice that exists she added I see most of the female employees are mothers Heron said yes we took into account the fact that child rearing

requires a lot of money when hiring them hearing that she fell and thought hm seeing that he asked is there something that's bothering you she hesitated then began well before going away to the orphanage I had a close relationship with a woman she had a newborn and she needed a lot of diapers for her baby but since peasants couldn't afford disposable diapers she had to use reusable fabric diapers I remember her getting tired of washing them every day I assume the same is true for female employees here hearing that he sighed uh I see Ellie

grin thinking great I didn't think an opportunity would present itself this soon but the conversation is going in the direction I want now she added actually I saw rugal trees at Baron amant's house not too long ago he asked the trees that grow in the East she replied yes and their tree barks are so absorbent that they could soak up wet stains and paint on the carriage right away leaving the surface nice and dry at the end fascinating isn't it suddenly she said oops sir Jared wanted me to keep it a secret I forgot she

said inwardly great I mentioned Jarrett's name too Heron said thoughtfully H but there are plenty of other trees that are being used to make art paper so I don't see a huge advantage in replacing them with rugal she shakes her head in denial that's not what I'm getting at Haron she said we can make something else with it for instance absorbent diapers Heron was taken aback by the suggestion he asked Miss Ellie did Sir Jerick give you this idea she replied yes it was so interesting I told you all of it I made a mistake

didn't I she said with a worried face Heron said no quite the opposite I would like to meet him right away seeing him she felt proud because she succeed after a while Haron and Jared worked together and came up with diapers made of rugal then they selected three Guild employees gave them diaper samples for free and got their feedback their response was just as Ellie expected the product was called pads first Rohan father of twins his response was now I don't need to worry about their diapers thank you so much second was Barn husband of

a premenopausal wife his response was I didn't know this before but women are on their periods for up to 7 days a month thanks to the pads my wife can have leak-free periods now third was Jane daughter of immobile elderly parents her response was they sleep so much better at night thank you so much Ellie thought to herself there was no such thing as period pads here so making something that both children and adults can wear was a brilliant move later Ellie was having tea when Heron came burst opening the door he called Miss Ellie

she replied yes Heron the pads have secured marketability right he said yes both men and women can use them so they'll be more popular in the market than regular diapers he remarked you're incredible Miss Ellie she Shrugged it off it was all sir Jared's idea she said to herself I'll use your name one more time Jarrett Haron said but you are the one who told me about it anyway I will go ahead and order the sale then she said um Lord Heron while I was listening to your lecture I had this idea how about we

sell the pads to the Guild's employees at a cheaper price than the market price it is the cider Guild employees who make the pads after after all that will lead to an even higher sales rate she added also I was thinking about providing a certain amount of pads for free to staff members who are fertile women or women with children under three she thinks in her mind there aren't many working women in this world for the most part men go out to work while women stay home to care for children but even in this environment

there are women who work hard in M dominated Fields women who Brave the Prejudice to go out of the house and make money I'm sure that these benefits will offer them essential support as they navigate through life he said there will be more people who want to work at the merchant Guild thank you Miss Ellie that sounds like a great idea I'll go and put that plan into action I'll wait I have more Ellie called out Lord Heron turned toward her you have more ideas regarding this business yes she beamed a few days later at

Marie orphanage thank you for your generous donation I have no words to express my gratit itude the caretaker said deeply moved children are the future of the Empire it's the right thing to do Jared replied and like I said I'm only a representative the entire donation is from cider Merchant Guild we also brought these he gestured toward the boxes I'll tell you more about them inside Ellie watched Jared with admiration he's so well spoken he knows the right things to say at the right time he also has a confirmed identity that boosts his trustworthiness and

a friendly face she nodded to her self there's no one better to fill my shoes I'm glad everything went as planned thanks to Jared she recalled when I was in the orphanage a lot of the younger children WP the bed at night because they were terrified of the dark but we didn't have luxury items like diapers so we had to wash the blankets with our own tiny hands in the morning and as soon as we turned 13 we got kicked out of the orphanage because our menstruation made keeping us here costly Ellie sighed I'm not

donating these simply out of the kindness of my heart but the children here will grow up to be adults and they may repay Clyde or Merchant Guild for helping them when they were young she hesitated for a moment I feel a little guilty but the temple strengthens people's faith in it through charity work too what I'm doing isn't any different then someone came and called um Ellie Ellie turned and gasped in Surprise Grace her eyes widened I forgot this was the orphanage you stayed at how have you been Grace glanced at the boxes what's all

this oh these Ellie smiled smiled they contain something called pads they're cheaper and more effective than regular diapers there are a lot of kids younger than you here right I hope this helps she thought to herself although I didn't intend it I hope these Pals bring Grace and Damian closer Grace suddenly froze her eyes welled up with tears Ellie called out G Grace as tears were dropping from her face why Grace's voice shook it was because of me because I told that priest about you you were hurt so why tears trickled down her face why

are you being nice to me Ellie's heart clenched she blames herself for what a did but thanks to her I was able to take care of Oli faster than in the original novel otherwise more people would have fallen victim to her that's not something to cry about Ellie said gently it's all in the past and it wasn't your fault so stop crying she pulled Grace into a hug and said I'm someone who causes trouble for so many people so I know how you feel but don't beat yourself up over something you didn't intend and I

hope you can be a little kinder to Damian he's shy but he's a good kid at heart after a few moments she asks have you calm down after realizing Grace jolted back Ellie asked confused Grace she said oh I am sorry I I've never cried in someone's arms who's not my parents before and that was a long time ago Ellie's expression softened is she forced to grow up fast because she has so many younger children to look after she's still a child herself Grace Ellie puts her hand on her shoulder you're still a child too

so there's nothing wrong with crying in someone's arms when you're upset about something if you bottle it up it will make you sick and if you're not comfortable with it yet you can always lean on me again okay grace sighed okay thank you Ellie smiled oh that's right do people from the Temple still visit the orphanage Grace replied ah yes the same as before Ellie's expression darkened I see the temple must be trying to sweep olly under the the rug suddenly someone called Miss Ellie Ellie turned to see sir Jared are you done with the

conversation he replied yes thanks to you she then turned to Grace and said I should go now Grace asked already she replied yes I'll See You Again Grace nodded okay thank you for today Ellie Ellie waved back to her from Carriage see you next time Grace as they rode away Jared asked Miss Ellie are you sure you don't want to stop by St orphanage Ellie hesitated for a moment then firmly replied yes I'm sure he said then we'll go straight back to sh's Castle she replied all right Ellie glanced back at the orphanage as they

rode away Saint orphanage my first home I would love to revisit it but now is not the time I'm sure they'd be happy to see me but seeing me could also make some of them feel worse about their own situations she looked outside thinking I'll go back as soon as I find a way to make everyone happy because now is the real beginning the sale of pads was officially launched they initially planned for a test sale starting in the East where the CER Merchant Guild is located to assess how well they performed in the market

the response was as I heard these paps are great have you used them my lady one woman asked yes my maid recommended them to me another replied I've used them too someone else chimed in so have I thanks to Word of Mouth their popularity grew rapidly they had intentionally withheld the fact that Lord Heron was a co-creator of the product while borrowing The Cider Merchant Guild's name would have guaranteed High sales any small flaws would have also been blamed on Cider at this stage the most important thing was ensuring that Jarrett a vassel of the

schz merchant Guild successfully established his own business looking at the report Ellie thought to herself everything is going smoothly you haven't touched your desserts today the Duke noted he asked are you looking at those papers again Ellie replied yes Lord Heron gave them to me at homework Ellie thought to herself I had only come for the report so how did I end up in this situation Jared visited the Duke once a week to deliver a sales report and both Heron and I listened as part of my lecture but rather than a formal report it often

felt more like a chance for Jared to show off to the Duke here the Duke said offering a chocolate after eating it Ellie felt in Heavens it melted in my mouth should I have one more she jolted and said no too much sugar isn't good for my health I should use use my willpower and stop here suddenly a finger poked her cheek what one bite of chocolate doesn't hurt she said inwardly don't poke my cheek like that a knock at the door interrupted them a servant informed Your Grace sir Jarrett and Lord Heron are here

H hello Your Grace Jared greeted with a bow Ellie was happy to see them sir Jared Lord Heron she pointed to a place on sofa and said sit here are you ready she asked yes of course Jared replied clearing his throat then I will report on this week's sales first the sales rate within our Merchant Guild is very high I believe this is because we've been selling them to our employees at a lower price what about the gender ratio the Duke inquired it's skewed toward men but that's not to say they're not popular among women

Jared explained I'm a bit surprised to be honest we're already providing a certain amount to female employees so I didn't expect this level of additional purchases the Duke took a look at the report saying it's a testament to how useful the product is he shoved another chocolate piece in Ellie's mouth she looked at him while munching she said to herself it's not easy to buy a new product unless you've used it before I'm glad we decided to give them out for free now that the usefulness of it has been confirmed suddenly Jared hesitated fidgeting nervously

Your Grace I have something to tell you regarding this matter Jared continued Ellie thinks looking at him he's nervous in the Duke's presence is there anything I could do to help Jarrett she said reaching toward him here this chocolate will boost your energy I feel so much more energized when I eat this so try it out I'm also here for you Jared felt touched Miss Ellie thank you I appreciate but the Duke snatches it and ate everyone gets shocked Your Grace you have a lot of chocolates why take sir Jarrett's she exclaimed in disbelief I

don't know the Duke responded nonam licking his fingers Ellie was flabbergasted the Duke remarked it's Sweet Ellie said inwardly he doesn't even like sweets what is his problem Jared scrambled to recover I will just get to the point I think we should donate them to other places as well to increase the long-term sales rate the Duke asked other places besides orphanages and workhouses he tried to shove more chocolate in Ellie's mouth but she resisted yesmy Jared suggested I heard most students atmy live in dormitories so it would be nice to donate paps to the female

students hearing that she thinks wow what a great idea Jared the Duke nodded thoughtfully acmy you say how would donating paps toies help our business because children there will become adults One Day Jared explained if we make a good impression on them they will become our customers once they're grown the Duke remarked not bad Jared brightened up do you mean it the Duke said yes I trust your judgment Jared thank you your grace Jared said excitedly ly only to pause as the Duke continued but should that judgment be proven wrong you will have to answer

for it Ellie was relieved the Duke approved the Jared's brilliant idea she reached for another chocolate and tried to feed it to the Duke the Duke asked what are you doing it's a gift you'll eat it won't you she teased waving the chocolate in front of him she said to herself I knew he didn't care for sweets but this was all I could give him right now he hesitated for a moment before finally accepting it he chuckled a gift and ate it she gets surprised huh I thought he was going to refuse what a surprise

he's just like a cat he then tried to give her another have some more she replied I can't I've already had enough he argued no you haven't and I know you like chocolates just then Haron stepped forward your grace I believe it's time that you started preparing for the wedding between Lord Damien and Miss Ellie Ellie turned in excitement finally he continued the word must have reached the emperor by now I think the sooner the two of them get married the safer they will be the Duke was displeased for a moment what do you think

Ellie he asked she replied in question about what he said marrying Damian she giggled I love it I like Daman so I'm definitely going to marry him the word repeated in Duke's mind definitely definitely definitely going to marry all right the Duke confirmed she asked again are Damian and I really going to get married he replied yes wow then I should tell Daman is he done with his sword training she asked before dashing off silence fell over the room raising the daughter is a thankless task the Duke muttered she didn't even look back if that's

not cruel I don't know what is don't you agree he asked yes came the hesitant reply Jared who had remained behind whimpered softly Miss Ellie take me with you he replied the Duke while trembling yes with the wedding only a week away sh's Castle was bustling with preparations Ellie wanted to help the adults but they refused royne said I didn't want his grace to kill me so she had to backed off so Ellie analyzed the report she concluded the sales are going well but we are still donating far more than we are selling without the

wealth of cider and shutz we would have gone out of business long ago she had been focusing all her energy on work searching for a bigger and more sustainable source of profit a product that could bring in more money and was guaranteed not to fail for instance Mana Stones nothing was more in demand than Mana stones in the market but that was easier said than done Ellie wondered how am I going to find a Mana Stone mine she sighed my mind is racing is it because the wedding is just around the corner I know it's

just a formality for our sake but I feel strange she remembered also I've barely seen Damian these days we used to eat together with the Duke so I at least got to spend time with him during meel times but Heron took that away from me recently classes on the history of the Empire Commerce speaking etiquette Etc the only time I see him is before bed she recalled asking Damian you can go to bed if you're tired no I'm not tired he barely finished his sentence before he dozed off she thinks in his mind he trained

at the crack of dawn and spent the rest of the day in lessons of course he was exhausted I know Heron only wanted him to be a qualified Heir but he's only 11 isn't this too much he never got a break air training is important of course but a child needs to run around and play outside too she then burst opens the window all right she jumped outside from window and exclaimed yay crunching through the snow she said to herself just wait for me Damian today I'm coming to you meanwhile in Damian's study room Haron

was impressed it hasn't been that long since I started teaching him the basics but he's already at an advanced level such incredible concentration and comprehension he's even keeping me on my toes but he recalled him telling this is a product that has been developed based on Miss Ellie's idea hearing her name he put his guard down and smiled oh I see I knew Ellie had it in her seeing that Heron thinks as soon as he heard her name he became distracted and quickly raised his guard he is a cider for sure as much a cider

as a cider can be the past heads of house cider in keeping with their family crest of blue wolf were all fiercely devoted husbands they never went against their wives but they were cold and ruthless to their enemies however they never let their wives see that side of them I'm sure Miss Ellie has never seen the look he just gave me herin thought everything is going well thanks to Miss Ellie she exposed corbinian scheme revealed salami's deception and has great business Acumen she even proposed providing a certain amount of pads for free to staff members

who are fertile women or have children under three without her we wouldn't have even thought of that kind of employee welfare but let's not jump to conclusions the future is more important just then a knock interrupted them a maid came and said excuse me Lord Heron Haron excused himself leaving Daman alone for a moment Daman sighed Ellie I wonder what you're doing right now I miss her then as if answering his thoughts she appeared at his window she called out Daman he was surprised to see her Ellie he asked what are you doing here she

said what I can't hear you can you open the window he complied then she smiled and asked how's your lesson going his heart raced seeing her smile did you read my mind he asks she replied what do you mean he shakes his head and nothing it's cold outside why did you come to the window because I can't be caught she grabs his hand anyway we don't have time lord Heron will soon realize that the maid is only rambling and come back to this room so let's leave before that happens as he was crossing the window

he asked but where too she grinned to play they dashed into the snowy Courtyard there's nothing but snow here Damian said what are we going to play with she scooped up some snow we're going to have a snow fight he asked confused a snow fight yes grab some snow shape it into a ball like this and then throw it she hurled it at a tree Damien watched in Fascination as the snowball splattered on the tree she asked looks fun doesn't it he nodded yeah let's put on some gloves first she said pulling out a pair

for him he took them noticing her hands were already cold Ellie is fascinating he thought even though she's right in front of me I don't want to be away from her for even one second I want to stay with her forever what is this feeling his heart was racing beating louder as he thinks about her she hit him with a snowball that's for zoning out why you scared me he yelped slumping forward then you try she encouraged first make a snowball he hesitated but then I'll go ahead without you she teased dashing away he called

out WWE a Ellie Only the Strong Survive in a competition she shouted laughing he followed her stop right there Damen grabbed a handful of snow and ran after her snow flew through the air as they chased each other across the courtyard laughing the entire time after a while both of them popped on snow that was fun wasn't it Ellie giggled yeah Damien responded enthusiastically Ellie demonstr at how to make a snow angel her laughter ringing out they were having so much fun that they hadn't even realized how far they had wandered we came all the

way to the Red Lake Ellie murmured her voice trailing off the lake is red because of a curse right many people have drowned in it and they say it causes pain when the water enters the body no wonder way Brock wants to protect it he doesn't want others to go through the same tragedy he did she remembered we should start heading back everyone must be worried just as Ellie turned she said Damian let's go be wait her gaze sharpened if the lake is truly cursed then wouldn't the land around it also be affected it should

be Barren unable to support life she turned to look around them then why do the trees here look so much healthier than others noticing her curiousity Damen called Ellie she said isn't it strange Damian there's been a lot of talk about this Lake being the way it is because of his Grace's Mania or land contamination so why are the plants around it in such good condition oh I've been wondering about that too Damian's brows furrowed and it also seemed strange that it was impossible to fill the lake and that the victims who drowned barely showed

any signs of decomposition hm Ellie tapped her chin does the original story ever talk about the lake just then a voice interrupted her thoughts look your grace I have never seen such a clear and pristine gem it's the same color as your eyes isn't it a beautiful ruby red Ellie gasped the fale lead of the original story ashel what she found wasn't a gem it was a red Divinity Stone typical Mana Stones turn into regular Stones when their Mana runs out but Divinity stones are different once Mana has been injected into them they can be

used indefinitely they're unlimited resources so to speak she recalled the story thanks to the Divinity Stone House shuts gain power equal to that of the Temple and Duke shuts went from suspecting ashel of being a temple spy to opening up his heart to her but of the Most Blessed land where Divinity stones are found is currently in the Temple's possession so it can't bought I found it strange while rereading the book how ashel accidentally found the Divinity Stone she was deep in thought so she unknowingly walked towards the lake thinking what if it's here the

Red Lake that no one comes to suddenly Damen stopped her by grabbing her hand he said Ellie you promis not to do anything dangerous again his grip was firm his voice laced with concern you were going to go to the the lake weren't you and no I Ellie hesitated guilt washing over her Damian is always so worried about me she patted his head gently I was just a bit curious that's all let's go back shall we you must be freezing Damen nodded as they walked back Ellie asked by the way why are your lessons so

long what do you even learn he replied oh the history of the Empire speech communication and the advancement of magic tools she was shocked that's a lot is it fun it's fascinating Daman said with a small smile in ancient times a lot of people used magic to grow plants they used magic for that Ellie tilted her head yes Magic has its foundation in nature nothing absorbs Mana as well as life does so they injected Mana into living things Ellie's eyes widened ah I see Mana into plants she froze as a thought crossed her mind Mana

into plants she said yes that's it trees I'm talking about trees her excitement bubbled over Why didn't it occur to me until now thank you Daman I owe it to you oh Damen blinked in confusion okay Ellie was determined I know what to do now taking a deep breath she called out tum A Rush of wind followed and a crow swooped down before shifting into a humanoid form talum sighed dramatically I'm just a flying Problem Solver to you aren't I you must be the only one who treats us like helpers he asked so why did

you call me a Pro just turned into a person Damian stammered wide-eyed all right it's your first time seeing this Ellie waved off his concern I'll explain everything later she turned to tum tum can I borrow a spile what you use to collect tree sap tum rolled his eyes is that why you called me so urgently she replied yes hurry Damien was again in shock he turned back into a crow Ellie tried to Cal him it's okay don't worry few drops fell from the tree on which tum was pecking she picked it up and said

talum please take a look at this with a poof tum shifted back into his humanoid form his expression won a shock th this is goodness what's it doing here he grabbed the glowing substance in Ellie's hand this is a Divinity Stone you're sure about that right Ellie's heart pounded tum straightened his voice unwavering yes I swear on my 500 years of life as a crow this is without a doubt a Divinity Stone a triumphant G spread across Ellie's face jackpot after that they returned to Castle where Heron greeted them he said hello Miss Ellie it

seems like you and Lord Daman had a lot of fun outside but next time I suggest you enlist the help of a more eloquent maid Ellie giggled he he I knew she was going to fumble he added just to be clear I am not against the two of you playing outside but I just want to ask was it worth breaking the rules it was Ellie answered without hesitation Haron asked is that so in what way Ellie beamed and held up a shimmering Stone we found this the stone sparkled and twinkled in the light Heron leaned

in inspecting it what is this she replied A Divinity Stone I see a deini his voice caught as realization struck pardon Ellie grinned he what do you say now was it a worthwhile outing a few moments later they sat down to talk further Haron said it really is a Divinity Stone then this must be why the lake couldn't wouldn't be filled and people might have died from a Mana surge not from drowning that's right Ellie took a sip from her cup deep in thought a Mana surge people generally possess Mana in their bodies but if

more Mana than what they possess gets forcefully injected into them they lose control it causes pain like what happened to wintia and we brck in severe cases they end up dying Ellie thought I'm glad the cause was discovered before there were more victims I hope this can clear up the misunderstanding that it's a curse land too a silence fell over them before Ellie finally spoke what's wrong Lord Heron he replied Miss Ellie I have always known that you were smarter than your peers but his gaze sharpened finding a Divinity stone is a different matter Ellie

froze how and where did you find it his voice was calm but pressing and how did you know this was a Divinity Stone she said without hesitation T talum told me we were hanging out with him earlier otherwise how would I have even known about Divinity stones she forced out a nervous laugh talum Heron's eyes narrowed she replied he's a blacksmith who works with sir Jarrett you've heard of him right Heron nodded yes since his tribe used to live near the world tree he must know about Divinity Stones better than anyone but how did you

know to look in the tree yum Ellie scrambled for an answer oh Damian told me she turned to him tapping his shoulder he told me what he'd learned in his classes today and it gave me some Clues yes Damian quickly added Ellie's right Heron let out a low hum studying them I it's a good thing isn't it Ellie blurted trying to change the subject we can make a lot of money off Divinity Stones yes Haron agreed but his expression remained troubled but I'm also concerned the discovery of divinity stones in the duy of shz is

bound to cause house shuts and the temple to drift apart even further Ellie felt a bit worried he's right in the original novel ashel had mediated the conflict between shutz and the Temple now Ellie had found the stone before ashel did she sighed internally I feel a bit guilty for taking away one of ashab bel's Feats but then she straightened Good Fortune for shutz is Good Fortune for you too ashel so don't hate me for this okay later that evening the Duke asked how was he today Heron replied he was great as always but I

think he should take a look at this a clinking sound echoed as he placed the Crimson Stone on the table he said it's a Divinity Stone Miss Ellie found it the Duke asked what Haron added its authenticity has already been confirmed the Duke observed it and said it's a clear transparent Red Jewel he said to himself just like the one she wanted his grip tightened he recalled late Duchess saying erhart I have something to tell you it will Astound you he asked skeptical what could possibly be so surprising that you take it this far she

smiled my dear Duke herard shits you don't expect to get get this information for free do you Bard raised a brow do you need me to increase your budget no the budget is abundant her expression softened but I I want a red Jewel that resembles your eyes after the war is over would you go buy one with me he asked you want me to go with you yes because you need to get a jewel too her smile was wistful and I already decided what color it's going to be Art's voice was quiet what color is

it she replied smiling green like my eyes regrets settled deep in his chest I should have told her then that no color in this world is beautiful enough to resemble her he clutched the stone Tighter and asked how many are there Heron replied we haven't figured out the exact number yet but I assume it's enormous the D constructed then release them first in the Eastern Market as soon as their mind but don't reveal their Divinity Stones just yet Heron said if Divinity stones are sold at a low price the temple which has had a monopoly

on them until now will be forced to lower their prices as well you're trying to make it hard for the temple to secure funds aren't you yes her heart's gaze was calculating I took care of the northern Temple but the Eastern Temple where daman's domain is located has yet to approve the marriage certificate they seem to be using a loophole in the oath to pretend they haven't received it in the first place this will be a good chance to put pressure on them Heron agreed yes sir then we will sell them under your Merchant Guild's

name but Ellie is the one who found it Heron pointed out out if we sold it under Miss Ellie's name wouldn't it jeopardize the distribution Duke said then we can use another name a name that may not be Ellie but can still pose a threat to the temple after thinking for a moment Heron eyes gleamed with satisfaction there is only one person yes beduk said my daughter-in-law will feel much better if her side of the family is successful a while later the amanta merchant Guild released Divinity stones into the Eastern Market making them a common

product in the region response was as the Duke expected people were using Divinity stones for their daily chores the temple authorities were in shock the Eastern Temple afraid that the value of divinity Stones might decrease grew increasingly concerned we're already mining less than we used to at this rate we can't sell Divinity stones at a high price Nobles can't know about this in response they managed to negotiate with house shoots to recall all the Divinity Stones before the merchants discovered their true value in exchange for approving the long-awaited marriage certificate and finally the anticipated wedding

day arrived Maids were preparing Ellie for the day she asked uh is it over a maid replied yes she looked in the mirror and asked emm it feels strange how do I look Ivana said stunning I've never seen someone as cute and beautiful as you Miss Ellie Ellie was happy he is that so suddenly Auntie came saying Miss Ellie are you Red he stopped as to how lovely she looked he was amazed wow you look beautiful Ellie brightened up really Andy said yes even his grace won't be able to take his eyes off as he

was speaking he got pushed by the Duke the Duke's attention was on him who said you could see the bride men they're always so impatient as he was speaking his gaze fell on Ellie and he got speechless Ellie asked him your grace H how do I look I don't look strange do I he was Dazed unable to speak Ellie called out you Grace Auntie ALS o tried to interrupt then the Duke finally spoke you're absolutely beautiful I mean it he kneeled down in front of her and caressed her Ellie's eyes widen and noticing the knot

is he wearing that knot for me and why did he look so upset he looks like a father on the day of his daughter's wedding then the Duke asked can I play the role of your father just for today Ellie asked surprised sorry he continued because it's the father who walks the bride down the aisle she got freaked out in her thought did he read my mind she replied B but what about Baron Amant Baron interjected ahem I'm fine seeing him and the Duke Ellie got the situation she then asked then will you be my

dad the Duke replied if you want shall we my daughter he reached out his hand Ellie giggled yes Dad then they walked towards the hall at the wedding ceremony way Brock talum Lo Heron and baron amant's family was present everyone was excited for the wedding as they walked down the aisle Duke was smiling just moments ago but now he looked Furious El said inwardly you were smiling until a moment ago so why are you doing this she whispered to him your grace can you do something about your face he asked what's wrong with my face

she whispered you look like you could eat someone up his words contradicted his Expressions what but I'm incredibly happy Ellie said in her mind look in the mirror he said I just have mixed feelings that's all I'm happy but at the same time I'm a bit annoyed Ellie wondered what kind of emotion is that Damien was already standing at the aisle seeing him Ellie said wow Damian you look amazing he looked at her and said you too Ellie you're the most beautiful girl in the world she chuckled really thank you the priest announced then let

us begin the wedding ceremony Ellie asked shall We Stand side by side the officient voice carried through the Hall of Lord Daman and Miss Ellie at the end he said lastly the bride and groom will share a kiss of oath hearing that the Duke asked coldly what the officient said I it's just customary they can kiss on the cheek if they're more comfortable with it the Duke asked again do you want to die he trembled B but convention dictates Ellie thought ug someone's going to end up dying on this joyous day I'll just get it

over with a peck on the cheek would be fine right then Ellie pointed away and said Daman Daman look as he looked away she kissed on his cheek Daman blushed w What was that she said sorry we can't be pronounced husband and wife unless we kiss then the Duke said to his attendant Auntie tie that officient up this instant so he can't run away he replied yes sir then the officient announced te the wedding ceremony has now been concluded everyone gave their congratulations congratulations Miss Ellie Lord Daman congratulations then the Duke walked to them and

said congratulations we are now a real family Ellie remembered the daughter of a Thief filthy blood a worthless girl that was me but today I gained a new name and a new family later Baron am man and the Duke went out to get fresh air the baron said everyone seemed to be having a good time the entire Hall was captivated by Lord Daman and Miss Ellie's charms the Duke asked by the way have you recalled all the Divinity Stones he replied yes your grace but wouldn't it be too big a loss to give up on

Divinity Stone distribution just like this the Duke smirked who said anything about giving up I only said I would recall them not that I wouldn't distribute them Baron was caught of guard for a moment oh meanwhile a familiar voice called out lady amanta thank you for coming how are you feeling are you well she replied yes I'm very healthy thank you for your concern Ellie said but you look so worn out she said I'm fine please don't worry about me thanks to you I made so many good memories memories that fill my heart with Vigor

Ellie beamed I'm glad to hear that then the baroness patted Ellie with love suddenly she remembered oh forgive me lady Ellie that was disrespectful of me now that you're officially Lord Damian's wife Ellie said to herself lady Ellie it's just a temporary position I'm not sure about being addressed as that baroness continued while we're on the subject I couldn't be more relieved that you married Lord Damian no one will be able to hurt you easily now not even his majesty the emperor Ellie froze thinking the emperor I know he can't look favorably on a thief's

daughter but why would he want to hurt me I'm just worried he might go after Duke schz and dami and for bringing me here she murmured to herself so when the time comes I should divorce him then her thought were interrupted by Jared Miss Ellie there you are baroness asked him am I invisible to you Jared oh of course not mother Jared stammered I just need to run something by Miss Ellie Ellie asked me he replied yes today is is hardly the time to bring this up but I thought of a great idea and I'd

like to know your opinion on it she asked what is it he said I'm considering opening a salon she gets surprised a salon he replied yes I've always been interested in that type of work although my father objected saying it wasn't a man's job and a salon can be a great boost for the pad business that has just begun to gain traction it hasn't been easy to popularize pads due to traditional Norms but if we can promote promote them to Noble women who make up the majority of Salon customers that will completely change the game

by giving sample pads to customers of the salon it can boost sales Ellie's mind raced a salon is also a place where all kinds of rumors are shared I can gather information just by sitting there she concluded Nobles Salon money I can't pass it up but you want to do it don't you Ellie smiled I support you brother good luck you can do it Jared brightened up then Miss Ellie I hope you will provide me with business advice for the salon going forward she asked huh is that okay he replied of course Lord Heron also

said that Consulting with you will be a great help to the business Ellie blinked Haron did does that mean I have his approval now she said brother then may I ask what kind of Salon you're thinking of opening she smiled I look forward to working with you the Imperial Palace of the Trae Empire someone knocks the door the empress asked yes who is it tonight the same woman he always seeks out a maid replied no it's someone else the empress said really but he's been gone for a long time he must be quite fond of

her the maid remarked it's said that she has green eyes hearing that the empress froze men why are they always obsessed with things they can't have what to do she murmured I can't kill every single woman with green eyes now can I anyway thank you you may go the maid left closing the door then the empress said to herself self 15 it had been 15 years it was time he gave up but he's still stuck in the past even though I knew he was like this there was a time when I was convinced I could

win his heart but funnily enough he even made L my younger half sister who looked just like me his mistress that sneaky wench she looked like she could be my twin but she was my polar opposite in every other aspect and in the end she dared to lay her hands on something that wasn't hers she said aloud no that girl is dead thinking about her would only disturb my peace what's more important right now is protecting my position then she jingled a bell a faint sound of rushing air filled the dimly lit room as the

figure in the shadows exhaled you called your majesty yes the empress responded there's interesting news regarding how shutz isn't there after getting the information she chuckled ha Duke schutz must have finally lost his mind a marriage not permitted by the Imperial Palace is as good as treason she mused but Duke shs is not someone who can be easily punished what should I do she asked the shadowy figure how old are his children again he Spoke Cider air is 11 and the orphan girl is 13 the empress clapped her hands together what a coincidence the boy

is the same age as the second Prince Mato he might be a good friend to my Mato don't you think so a few days later Jared showed his Salon to Ellie wow Ellie's eyes sparkled as she took in the sight before her so this is what a salon looks like she murmured she pointed one of the displayed items brother what is that she asked curiously oh it's a beauty tool you use on your hair Jared explained you and Lord Damen found a gem that contains longlasting Mana we can't talk about Divinity Stones openly just yet

Jared continued I thought I could use it as a hand warmer so I injected fire Mana into it and fell asleep with it resting near my head then when I woke up I found my hair styled nicely without being burnt that's how I came up with this idea Ellie beamed it's a great idea people here style their hair with heated metal rods or hair rollers but metal rods burn the hair easily and hair rollers don't always produce the exact style a person wants so it's been a problem now that I think about it isn't this

a perfect curling iron but it doesn't burn the hair like a curling iron usually does Ellie's excitement grew she said inwardly this is incredible that's why you wanted to open a salon she remarked you are amazing brother Jared blushed slightly at the praise double you really thank you Ellie then noticed something else and what's that next to the beauty products it's various kinds of fabric Jared replied I thought I could include a boutique inside the salon I also made a coffee house in a private room on the first floor her eyes sparkled convenience facilities Jared

continued customers might need a place to rest and have private conversations while the clothes are being made we're also going to keep pads in stock at all times for when customers need them Ellie clapped her hands together oh I knew Jared had good business sense Jared hesitated for a moment although I do have one concern Ellie tilted her head what concern it's a decent strategy she asked concerned um brother can I ask what it is you touched my scissors again didn't you a sudden voice cut through the conversation Ellie blinked as a young woman stormed

her expression Furious I told you these are for cutting hair not fabric are your ears clogged another voice replied sorry I didn't know the scissors meant so much to you a loud thump followed W what is this sound Ellie wondered as the tension in the air thickened Jared sighed here they go again they're the hairdresser and Taylor who are going to be working with me the young woman Charlotte huffed whatever I'm done talking to you but Charlotte you still look upset the guy Flint pointed out you don't say Charlotte snapped it's because you can't even

distinguish between scissors Ellie watched shocked as the tailor Flint simply Shrugged sorry to break it to you Charlotte but I know what scissors look like he said that's not what I mean ug forget it talking to you only stresses me out Charlotte fumed stomping away are you on your way to buy scissors Flint called after her no don't follow me she shot back but we were in the middle of a conversation Flint said following anyway she shouted that wasn't a conversation that was me yelling at you for touching my scissors he asked then should we

go buy new scissors she shouted and know the door creaked open and slammed shut behind Charlotte Flint called out wait for me Charlotte Ellie turned to Jared what just happened Jared sighed again they're both very talented but as you just saw Flint can be a bit dense that's why I'm worried Ellie nodded slowly I know what you mean I thought about not hiring Flint Jared admitted but most good tailor already have their own boutiques and the ones who haven't yet want to run their own shops he sighed and Charlotte's good at finding the right colors

for customers so I thought she could make the best partner for Flint who doesn't have a Keen Eye for colors the problem is they quarrel all the time I'm just afraid they might do that in front of customers I see Ellie tapped her chin and thought but Charlotte's skills are very impressive I think they can be put to better use Jared then said would you like to come this way Miss Ellie I've prepared hot cocoa for you okay Ellie agreed cheerfully as she sipped the warm drink thoughts still swirled in her mind while Flint made

the clothes Charlotte would style the hair using the curling iron and with all the convenience facilities the salon would be an instant hit but she had a hunch something was missing she thought besides Charlotte and Flint there's got to be more we can do to make the two of them work together in a way that brings out the best Synergy then shed got an idea that's it she asked um Jared what's your favorite color he replied my favorite color is blue she said oh so is mine maybe because it reminds me of Damen but you

know his grace said that red looks better on me and Damen likes green and yellow but his grace thinks another color looks better on him I guess everyone has their own matching colors Jared replied wow that's so interesting grinning she continued I'm sure it is because this is a beauty concept that was a huge Trend in my past life called personal color analysis they say that once you delve into it there's no coming back she muttered to herself hoping Jarrett would take the hint then Jared muttered matching colors and preferences suddenly Jared's eyes lit up

Miss Ellie then how about we have Charlotte choose the color that matches the customer best and have Flint make clothes in that color if we go a step further and style their hair in a way that goes well with the clothes this Salon will be a very special one that no one's ever seen before Ellie beamed he caught my drift once again she replied that sounds like a great idea then he said but there's just one problem if we provide more services we'll have to have higher pricing than regular boutiques to ensure the quality but

it will be difficult to maintain a customer base with that pricing we don't even have any regular customers yet how can we secure customers Ellie drooped in thought oops that's true it's not an easy task let's see how can we increase the prices and attract new customers customers at the same time she concluded is that the only way she began you see Jarrett the director of The Orphanage I was at was a very mean woman and she barely even bought us cocoa saying it was expensive Jared remarked my goodness how could she be so cruel

she continued yes but that's not all whenever a new store opened near the orphanage she refused to pay for the goods saying she was going to decide if they were worth her money after she used them Jared said how outrageous Ellie continued cunningly oh but she was a good person she took us in when we had nowhere else to go besides if she thought the products were good enough she kept buying them so I'm sure she wasn't completely Shameless Jared said ah you are so kind-hearted Miss Ellie but that doesn't change the fact that she's

a vile person not only did she mistreat the children in her care but she used things for free and only paid for them if she liked them Jared's eyes widened wait for free he thought for a moment then said said Miss Ellie what you just said gave me an idea how about we give free color consultations to customers for a while I think they will revisit the salon if they like the initial experience as proven by the pads Ellie grinned I love giving Jared information he's so good at picking up on things what I was

getting at by mentioning the director was temporary free consultations grand opening get a free consultation we'll attract customers by offering free services and once they gain traction we'll start charging them but by then the Nobles who have already tasted the beauty of personal colors won't mind the high prices is this me the sparkle in the customer's eyes was unmistakable because they wouldn't have worn clothes that suit them so well in their lives please she nodded it's a brilliant idea Jared said I wouldn't have thought of it without you thank you so much for giving me

crucial advice once again she stood up saying I didn't do anything it was all your work she thought to herself all right I think this settles all the issues at the Salo but then she remembered oh wait Charlotte and Flint Ellie turned to Jared in sudden realization by the way Jared what if Charlotte and Flint quit because of what happened earlier Jared smiled oh you don't need to worry about that just then the door creaked open Jared said speak of the devil Charlotte came with flint and instructed him put it down here Flint was holding

a box he said okay do you need me to do anything else she said said no I'll clean up so go rest thanks for helping he insisted no I'll do it with you she refused I have it under control he kept insisting but I want to she replied ug fine suit yourself Ellie watched the interaction unfold what an oddball as the two work side by side Jared told Ellie as you can see Flint's nickname during his Academy days was Doberman he was so loyal to Charlotte that they could never stay mad at each other for

long and they were called The Fantastic Duo they really are good friends Ellie thought but as she observed them more closely a realization hit her I was too flustered to realize it earlier but it looks like Flint is in love with her if that's friendship then I have no friends although I really don't if I had a friend my age I would have brought them to the salon what a shame she sigh well I'll just come here with Daman after a few days outside the salon the crowd bustled one asked when can we go in

another said apparently consultations take a while we should be patient other added why is it so popular is it that good I hope it's worth the wait few Noble ladies were talking to each other a lady clapped her hands together saying it's all thanks to you those color consultations are something else if I had passed it up because it's a new salon it would have been a big mistake the other added and that hair styling too what was it called see curling iron it looked amazing I'd love to buy it but sadly it's not for

sale the first one said tell me about it if they start selling it I'm definitely going to buy one after a pause someone finally exclaimed haha jemuel Salon that's the name jemuel Salon was extremely popular even after the free consultations were over the line was so long that even the coffee house was filled to capacity jemuel Salon became the main topic of teatime conversations among Noble women who are always sensitive to Trends Ellie thinks in her mind I knew the curling irons would be a success although much of it owes to Charlotte's amazing skills people

don't know that so even if there are copycats later they will visit our Salon again munching on a treat she added because those salons won't have Charlotte what matters more than the curling irons is the person who handles them the Duke said Ellie open up she replied opening her mouth okay tisk even a bird would eat more cleanly than you came the playful scolding she said inwardly you're the one who gave me that big cookie she looked towards him thinking by the way why isn't Damien eating any he likes sweets too she asked aren't you

going to eat Damian oh uh he hesitated she pressed you haven't touched yours go ahead he hesitated uh actually I the Duke interjected Ellie as far as I know Damen doesn't care for sweet before he could finish Damen scrambled to speak I was saving it for later he quickly added it looks good Ellie be took a bite Ellie asked do you like it he nodded M the Duke chuckled your preferences must have changed at that moment and he approached Your Grace he asked what is it Andy told there is a letter for you Ellie's eyes

widened the Imperial Crest it's finally here burn it came the indifferent reply Andy asked sh shouldn't you at least read it the Duke said what for I'm sure it doesn't say anything Pleasant Auntie insisted but your grace then Ellie called out out them your grace reading it won't do any good he added politely while trying to feed her she pouted refusing to eat are you protesting he asked he agreed tisk all right then auntie auntie complied why yes the letter was opened belated congratulations on the marriage I am very regretful that I couldn't congratulate you

sooner due to extenda circumstances therefore I would like to invite you to the Imperial Palace for a proper celebration it is my understanding that the children have not had their debutant balls yet on the day the sun is at its highest they will have a debutant ball at the Imperial Palace children of other noble families will also attend getting acquainted with them will certainly be helpful for your children's introduction into High Society I sincerely hope you will accept this invitation carthia lari lenia the empress the empress invited us Ellie gasped and to a debutant ball

if I were a normal Noble lady I would have been happy but the current Empress of trade is karia Count lael's only daughter and Ellie's mother had died after getting caught trying to steal something from house leel Ellie bore no physical resemblance to her mother but since there were people who knew her identity the empress might know that she was her mother's daughter too she thought I expected this much even if she invited me knowing who I am I you can live comfortably for the rest of your life with the family fortune alone without making

your name known in High Society came a calm voice the Duke added you don't need need to go there if you're afraid of criticism ignore this letter he looked as indifferent as always but Ellie saw it now no she said firmly I'll go I can't live in hiding forever she turned to him and smiled also I'm not afraid I have you and Damian a grin tugged at his lips then I should make preparations for the child with the shuts name although you'll be fine since we're going together he added Ellie blinked are you going too

he replied of course although I can't promise that I'll be able to control my temper in any case don't worry too much and he stepped forward here is a different letter he added you have a reliable bodyguard next to you a bodyguard Ellie tilted her head he stretched his cheeks saying hm you've put on some weight I'm happy to know that you won't look too small next to other children Ellie frowned ug is he making fun of me he asked do you have a problem with my compliment Ellie sighed he's funny a caring family that

I always dreamed of I'm going to be okay because now I have a family who will protect me meanwhile at the Imperial Castle suddenly a noise from outside caught his attention the prince asked why is it so noisy outside suddenly he remembered it's oh that's right today is the day the debutant ball participants assemble isn't it then is she going to be here too