(COMPLETE) She Was Mistreated By Prince But She Returns As Strongest Woman In The Empire

the scene unfolded as crowd cheering for the emperor and Empress of castina Empire the coronation of rubles calud and Shaina castina castina Empire's 34th Emperor had begun the crowd shouts long live the emperor long live the empress long live the emperor long live the empress they start saying aren't they a match made in heaven both of them look so happy indeed the Empire will prosper now that the emperor finally met his Empress orisa the first wife of the emperor stands behind the the crowd listening them Empress Palace Empress Jun second wife of Emperor and his

favorite wife said to Arista wow I've never seen silver hair before it's so pretty what's your name Tia bowed and replied my name is aristela Monique dear Empress Moon of the Empire hearing her name she gets surprised and asked so you're Arisa she asked her can I call you Tia Jun said nobody here is around my age so I don't have any friends this is great nice to meet you Tia orisa bowed and said I am honored your majesty meanwhile she thinks among Nobles only good friends call each other by their given name she's been

taking etiquette lessons for a while now yet she still doesn't know such simple manners Jun said my name's Jun I hope we can be good friends Tia replied yes your majesty Jun said while laughing don't call me like that you can just call me by my name casually hearing this Tia grits her teeth while thinking that place should have been mine she tells the castina Empire has a proud history that lasts a thousand years the 33rd Emperor Merkin Lua castina was perfect and had ruled most generously however his one flaw was that he had no

heir to succeed his throne when the Royal Palace grew dim with worry over the matter he finally had a son late in his life four years later an oracle's Divine message foretold the birth of the prince's partner and a daughter was born to house Monique a Maris Family House Monique was the only Maris family that contributed to the founding of the Empire as such none ever doubted that the girl was the foretold partner of the prince as soon as the girl was able to walk she was trained to become an empress without any room for

Freedom after Emperor mkin passed away many years later Prince ruis was crowned as the 34th Emperor the girl waited knowing that she would now soon become his Empress however the unexpected happened and it happened suddenly a mysterious girl appeared at the Lake of the Royal Palace the girl had a curious appearance har is black is soot that came down to her shoulders and pitch black eyes the temple fell into chaos at the sudden appearance of this girl clearly from another world not our own then an oracle was announced naming her as the emperor's true partner

and so the mystical girl was worshiped as the empress while the girl once trained to be the empress ever since she was born was admitted to the Royal Palace as a lower Queen instead of as an empress Arista walks in Garden outside the palace while walking she thinks I often walked in this garden with the late emperor Emperor while coming close to a tree she thinks now I visit this place alone without him she recalls late Emperor's words as a memory my dear girl tears fell down from her eyes as she thinks I believed I

Would One Day become the wife of his son and be happy while crying she thinks dear Emperor murkin I miss you suddenly she hears junun voice and gets shocked Jun said Tia seeing her Tia thinks why is Jun here Jun asked her what's wrong Tia said welcome your m Majesty dear Moon of the Empire Jun asked her were you crying did something happen Tia turned saying it's nothing I was just remembering something dear to me hearing this with a confusing look Jun asked something dear she gets emotional and said I see I want to see

my family too I was just dropped into this world somehow without any warning seeing her Tia thinks ah of course she must have had her own family too I think she turned 18 this year Jun starts crying saying Mom Dad Tia moving her hand towards her for condonation said your ma meanwhile she gets interrupted by Emperor ru's sudden appearance Ru asked what's going on here they both get shocked Jun gets close to Ru and shouts ruve he asked her what's wrong Jun with a furious look he said to Tia you Tia flinched when he said

what have you done to Jun she tries to say your majesty I meanwhile Jun interrupts saying ruen Tia didn't do anything wrong she tells him I was tearing up a bit because I miss my family back home Ru said to her I see with a gentle tone and softness in his voice he said you must be tired you should go ahead and rest indoors I'll be right with you Jun said all right seeing him like this Tia gets shocked and thinks that tender tone she thinks heun's never spoken to me like that before meanwhile Ru

said you with a cold tone he said don't you dare appr appr gun he said Jun is a pure gentle woman the likes of you shall not dare treat her carelessly she tries to say your majesty but he interrupts her saying did you think the crown of the empress was yours never the prophecy was misinterpreted to begin with it wasn't yours in the first place it was junun hearing this she clenched her dress and thinks I was only trying to understand how she felt while leaving Ru said if this happens again I will not forgive

you Tia in her mind asked why do you hate me so ruis I did my best to earn your love that's all after sometime Jun comes to Tia's room and asked her for forgiveness saying I'm sorry Tia Tia remains silent giving blank look while Jun said again I'm so sorry Tia said I do not understand what you mean your majesty meanwhile she thinks is this about how I'm doing all the work in this Palace which should be done by you or about your unsophisticated etiquette that isn't improving despite all those lessons Jun said well I

heard that you were supposed to be the empress I heard you were chosen as ru's fiance since the moment you were born but I arrived and tia thinks quite slow with the news I see Jun starts crying and said I really didn't know I'm sorry Tia said you do not need to apologize for anything Your Majesty we were simply foolish and misinterpreted the Oracle Jun asked her what do you mean Tia replied only God can decide who shall stand beside the emperor you are the person foretold in the Oracle so it is only right that

you become the empress your majesty hearing this Jun asked her what God decides what's so great about being an empress hearing this Tia gets shocked and stops writing thinking what Jun said I just happened to fall into this world that I know nothing about it was overwhelming when everyone talked about some Oracle in marriage it's not like I can go back home so I accepted since I didn't have any other choice but now I found out that he already had a fiance Jun shouts so what's with that that just makes me the villainous bee who

took your place she shouts all I want is to just go back home I never wanted to be something like an empress hearing this Tia gets angry and thinks how can this person be so she asked Jun in serious tone are you done she raised from her chair and slams the table Jun gets confused and asked Tia Tia said I am simply shocked by how irresponsible you sound right now you simply accept accepted all this because you had no way to go back home even so you should have given sincere thought into what kind of

position this was when making that decision Jun said that's Tia interrupts her while saying with anger the empress is the mother of all who live in the Empire and is the sole partner of the Emperor who will rule the future of the Empire your position is not something to be taken so lightly that you can just whine about meanwhile she thinks I have I have always wanted to stand there yet I could never have it I have worked all my life to stand beside him and yet the papers Fells on the ground and Jun said

Tia Tia T NRS her face while saying it madens me so to see how careless you are about this your majesty I pity the emperor and the people of our Empire she said most of all I pity myself for spending all my youth preparing only to end up worthless assisting you like so Tia thinks becoming his Lower Queen because of someone like her just why did he choose someone like her to be his partner while seeing Jun she thinks what was so lovely to him about a woman like her Jun said Tia I just I

suddenly came to a strange place and I was confused it was hard for me to accept the fact that Ru the one person I relied on in this world had another wife and that person was you my friend maybe that's why I said something I shouldn't have I'm sorry Tia remains silent after hearing this and Jun said while leaving I'll be leaving now she leaves inaide thinking I wonder what has gotten into me I could have held back I've been strangely impatient and unable to hold back my anger these days while seeing the papers she

thinks right work I have to finish these while picking the papers from the ground she thinks these papers should be authorized by the empress she enjoys her privilege and his love yet ignores all of her given duties meanwhile Ru comes and slams the door Tia gets shocked seeing him she said your majesty she bowed and said welcome your majesty the sole son of the empire meanwhile Ru strikes her face without saying anything she gets completely shocked by his this act he asked her in Anger what did you say to Jun he asked herid you say

that you were supposed to be the empress Tia replied never your majesty he shouts in anger so why is Jun in tears and telling me to go find you Tia thinks of course I blamed her on the inside and felt pitiful but after Jun appeared not once have I thought of you as mine no even before she appeared you were never kind to me so how could I wish for something like that now Tia gets surprised when he asked her do you wish to become my woman that badly with confusion on her face she said

your majesty Ru said what for I know it's not for love a woman so bitter and cold she doesn't even cry out when slapped how could you love me he smirks while saying house Monique is flourishing even now so it can't be due to simple loyalty for your family either perhaps you wish to Bear the future emperor in order to continue your family's Legacy hearing this she shouts in her mind no she thinks though I was never loved I wanted to love you and I wanted to become someone who would help you I never once

thought of this as a duty for my family or politics Ru gets close to her and holds her hand and said strip hearing this she gets shocked he asked her what are you surprised for isn't this what you wanted he said if you wish to be my woman so much then I will make you so he slams her into wall and she shouts your majesty she shouts don't do this he forced her while she said your majesty please he asked her why are you pretending to hesitate Now isn't this what you wanted she gets confused

and said I do not understand meanwhile she thinks oh right I overheard before is it true the emperor yes he hasn't stepped a foot into the empress Chambers not even once I heard that the empress is rejecting him she thinks if that is true What if I accept him now then won't he at least think of me a little bit she thinks if I conceive his child maybe he will look my way once again she gets herself released from him and said I may not be the empress however I am not a mistress either I

am a queen I will take these clothes off myself so please respect my wishes hearing this he smirks and asks a queen not a mistress he pulls her from her arm saying make no mistake you are nothing to me hearing this she thinks I've always imagine the day I would be one with you but this is not what I had in mind not like this Ru pushes her towards the wall and she shouts with pain she said your majesty wait Ru said I'll do as you wish so be quiet two months later a Grand Banquet

was held it was to celebrate jun's oneyear anniversary since she appeared in the Empire seeing Jun in Rua thinks in the end she meanwhile she recalls the moment when Jun said her Tia I'm sorry I've fallen in love with ruve at first I rejected his words of love because of you but in the end I couldn't help but fall in love with someone as kind as him I will take him in once this banquet is over but I'll treasure you like my own little sister for the rest of my life let's be friends just like

sisters okay Tia thinks I wonder if my endless longing for him will fade once Jun accepts him I wonder what kind of woman I will be in the end I can't even hate him he hurts me and ignores me with a cold glare at every time yet I still yearn for his love like this she was thinking I don't understand while she starts feeling nauseous a servant noticed her and rushed towards her while she thinks why do I feel nauseous am I getting sick the servant asked her your highness are you feeling ill you seem

pale oh Tia replied I'm all right she starts sweating and said I'm just feeling a bit she stumble and thinks I feel so nauseous it's like my insides are turning over but I didn't even eat any anything everyone seeing her like this starts Whispering some gets irritated and some laughs as they found what is happening seeing them Tia thinks what is this why are they looking at me like that meanwhile Ru and Jun asked her is something wrong Ru asked Tia what's all this commotion Tia bowed and replied it's nothing your majesty nothing is WR

meanwhile she feels nauseous again seeing her ruve and Jun both gets confused seeing them Tia thinks no I don't want him to see me in such a state but meanwhile sir Ras comes and said congratulations your majesty Ru asked him sir Rass what do you mean by that he replied though I may be Hasty it seems that the queen is with a child he said that is a blessing to this Empire and to the royal family it's only right to congratulate such a blessing is it not hearing this everyone starts murmuring and shouts she's pregnant

they start saying the empress is right there yet she got pregnant first then she could Tia gets confused and thinks I am with a child meanwhile Jun sits down shouting no seeing her Ru shouts Jun he asked her Jun are you all right your majesty meanwhile she glares at Tia Ru helping Jun to stand said here Jun stand up he said to Tia hear me dear Queen to think that I'd hear news of your child on such a memorable day as today this is quite a blessing hearing him speaking kindly with her for first time

she gets surprised and thinks that kind voice he said I am truly delighted noticing his eyes she gets shocked and thinks he isn't speaking his true feelings his eyes are so cold the crowd starts shouting congratulations your majesty congratulations your highness the queen congratulations he said to Tia you don't seem so well would it not be better for you to return to your chamber and rest now Tia bowed and replied yes your majesty then I shall take my leave Ru said I should be walking you out but the guest of honor shouldn't leave his place

I shall send a doctor to look over your health and see you afterward he said do take care of yourself she thinks he is clearly banishing me she said I am grateful your majesty she went to her room and the doctor said to her you must let yourself rest since this is only the beginning of your pregnancy he said this tea will help you feel better and less nauseous hearing this she thinks so I really do have a child I thought I was slug these days from working too much while touching her belly she thinks

there is a baby in here she picks the cup of tea and starts drinking it thinking I had a dream Once even if he detests me and hates me I hoped he would lay his eyes on me again if I had his child it was a naive foolish dream the late Emperor had him in his final years so he must have been lonely during his youth as the only child but the reality is I will see you afterward I'm such a fool I know he only said those words reluctantly because everyone was watching yet here

I am now buoyantly waiting for him to visit me after some weeks she was walking in the hallway while she thinks 3 weeks have passed since the banquet but he didn't come to see me once at least today he finally called for me but that is enough to make me happy to feel so sluggish and dizzy today of all days I often feel ill and uneasy these days is it because of the rain she went to ru's room while he was standing beside the window seeing outside a servant said to Ru your m Majesty her

highness the queen has arrived she comes inside and said I am here as requested your majesty the sole son of the Empire he said I don't wish to speak with you for long so I'll be brief he said I don't suspect that the child in your belly is not mine you wouldn't do that judging by your high sense of Pride hearing this she thinks stay calm don't show him anything disgraceful it will displease him if I do Ru said however keep this in mind I will choose my Heir from among the children of the empress

not you it doesn't matter how many children you bear nor how smart the children grow to be they will never become my air or successor do you understand hearing his cold words she thinks such a cold voice it's like his words are cutting through my bones he asked her why aren't you answering I asked do you understand she thinks why does he hate me so it hurts my heart she tries to say yes I under but suddenly she starts feeling dizzy she staggers and was about to fell down Ru catches her and saved her from

felling seeing him close she thinks oh I've never seen him like that before meanwhile Jun comes and opens Tay door saying Ru I got tired of waiting so I came to you she said today is she stopped seeing them both she asked in Anger what are you doing Ru tries to say Jun this is she said how could both of you do this to me ru said Jun this isn't what you think she turns and starts leaving saying I don't care Ru shouts wait Jun he shouts please listen to me Jun meanwhile he leaves Tia

and she Fells on the ground he turns and gets shocked asking what he shouts seeing her on the ground Queen meanwhile Tia shouts with pain a n my belly she thinks I feel like my stomach is ripping into pieces she shouts in her mind it hurts it hurts so much ru doed towards the outside shouting is there anyone outside call the doctor here now Tia thinks why is he looking so panicked why it's not like him to be so her dress was covered with blood and she thinks why she wakes up in her bed seeing

towards window she thinks morning just like any other day she thinks but why do I feel so empty the doctor asked her are you awake your highness Tia remembers the moment she fell she clenched her hand thinking this she asked the doctor ID I lose my baby the doctor said I'm afraid so your highness she clenched her hand thinking as I thought the doctor said I am so very sorry your highness she thinks I guessed as much there was too much blood she asked the doctor then will I will I be able to Bear another

child he replied that's because you were always quite frail in health since you were young your highness she thinks I see then I won't be able to see a child between him and and I now and forever but she recalls that moment Ru shouts attend to the queen Jun wait let me she thinks this might be for the better it's better that a baby isn't born from a stubborn woman like me even now the sight of him turning his back towards me that hurts even more than the fact that I lost my child it's just

as he said I am a chilling cold woman meanwhile the maid starts gossiping the queen is in such a state yet her father Marquis Monique hasn't even come to see her he only goes back and forth from the knight's quarters well of course house Monique has always been fiercely loyal to the Royal Palace I mean he didn't show any discontent when his daughter was called for to be the queen it's a humiliation after all the years she was trained as an empress does he not care about his daughter seeing Tia sleeping they said well just

look at how calm the queen is after losing her child I guess ice flows in the veins of that family instead of blood after waking up TIA thinks I wonder how many days or weeks passed since then yet another nightmare fell upon me even before I regained my health she raised thinking I couldn't sleep at all why is my insomnia getting worse she thinks I should go visit the office I'm sure a lot of work has piled up while I was away she was about to open the door when she heard maid saying hey did

you hear the news a maid asked is it true the other one said it is I heard the head maid talking about it Tia gets shocked when they said the empress is with the child she thinks Jun is pregnant the maid said I heard that the emperor was so very delighted they're going to hold a Grand Banquet and offer gifts to all the people of the Empire even the temples are holding a prayer to bless the child of the prophesized empress amazing the Empire will finally welcome an heir to the throne she thinks when I

had a child there were no such celebrations and nobody rejoiced suddenly she starts losing her sense and starts laughing wildly and said haha Nobody seeing her the maids gets shocked and ask your highness they said your highness please forgive us meanwhile Tia laughs while saying pregnant she's pregnant she giggles and laughs so hard and said so Jun has a child does she seeing her like this the maids gets shocked and said your highness please calm yourself meanwhile Tia's dad opens the door hearing her voice and asked my dear Queen is something wrong the maid seeing

him shouts sir Monique Tia saidou here father are you here to congratulate the empress for bearing a child as well I won't ever have a child from now on but look she's pregnant how funny don't you think so father her father steps close to her while she laughs continuously he grabs her from her shoulders and shouts please get a hold of yourself he shouts your highness Tia stops laughing she asked what was I she turns and said please forgive me for showing such disgrace father meanwhile she thinks I've been trained to contain my emotions and

yet seeing her father she thinks he must be disappointed he was always Stern no matter who he was facing and even to himself she gets shocked when her father said I should never have sent you here she asked what meanwhile she thinks father has never objected against the Royal Palace before father was always loyal what does he mean by saying this now he said to her your highness please listen closely I have to travel to the borders due to an urgent matter he said so please stay strong and wait for me when I return I

will surely take you back to our Monique family home hearing this she asked is that really true father can I can I really return home her father said I will definitely make it so so please ready yourself and stay well he asked her do you understand Tia with a sense of Happiness replied yes yes Father her father while leaving said now then she thinks father he he was always Stern yet he shows concern for me now but I wonder why I feel so uneasy father he seems so far now maybe I should call him back

tell him not to leave she thinks no heun return soon he always keeps his promise she walks towards the window thinking when he comes back I'll ask him did you really think me more important even though you've always put the empire in the Royal Palace first I will definitely ask him and then meanwhile Jun get attacked by masked men and shouts K who are you who ordered you to do this Jun was ambushed by masked men during her walk outside the palace grounds it happened 4 days later the knights seeing Jun injured shouts your majesty

the maid came shouting while saying your highness this is an emergency she barges in and said Marquis Monique was arrested for treason orista gets shocked after hearing that she turns around and asks my father orisa tells in her mind Jun was attacked by unknown men during her Excursion into town and lost her child the next day my father was arrested as The Mastermind behind the attack while running to where the emperor was Arisha thinks in her mind this can't be father is a loyal man he wouldn't do such a thing after a while in the

throne room while standing in front of the emperor Arista said your majesty please spare my father I beg you while Seated on his throne the emperor saidou asking me to forgive someone who tried to kill the empress while worried for his father Arista said there must be some sort of misunderstanding father would never do such a thing she said please think of the countless years our house has been loyal to the throne please spare his life while smirking the emperor asked really he then said Neil orisa gets surprised after hearing that she said what the

emperor said didn't you want to save your father while showing his feet he said kneel at my feet and lay your head on the ground lick my shoe and I shall spare your father then he asked well you can't do it orisha clenches his hands and thinks in her mind I am a woman who has been trained as an empress to be the partner of the emperor all my life I was taught to watch and judge the world along with him standing equally by his side I was taught to have a pride to match that

position while recalling Jun in her mind she thinks much more so than the girl of the Oracle she thinks in her mind I'm sure my father wouldn't want me to do something so humiliating because I am a member of the royal family but she recalls her memories in her mind and thinks my father showed me the fatherly love for the first time he promised to take me home pride or the Dignity of the throne none of that matters to me anymore I will save my father orisa then kneels in front of the emperor and get

close to his feet she thinks in her mind yes this is for my father the emperor then said you were always arrogant and now I finally see you knil dot after that Arisha raises her head and asks will you spare my father's life as promised then the emperor said H oh how unfortunate your father is already dead he was executed this morning orista gets stunned after hearing that she then remembers in her mind her father leaving and thinks then that was my last sight of him the emperor stands up from his throne and saidou more

naive than I thought he leans down towards Arisha and said did you really think I would let him live he killed my child and H Jun while he was talking Arisha gets lost in thoughts she thinks I've never longer wanted for my father's love not until the last moment when I saw a sliver of Hope in him I thought I would finally be able to grasp that flickering feeling while tear came to her eyes she thinks now I will never be able to know after that while feeling lost Arisha said to the emperor you say

my father killed your child then what about you she said you took away my everything you killed my child and left me with nothing so what about you she stands up in anger and while Furious she thinks in her mind how dare you Arisha pulls her hair pin from her hair and points it towards the emperor and said with anger what how dare you she then stabs the emperor with The Hairpin the emperor was shocked and tears were falling from Arista eyes while the emperor was in anguish guards came shouting your majesty your majesty your

wound is orisa was standing there while shocked and Confused one of the guards said hurry call for the doctor the rest of you arrest the queen now Arisa came back to his senses and looking at The Hairpin stained in blood she starts trembling hairpin fell from her hands she then thinks no what have I done what's happened to me back at The Gallows the announcer said ASO she will be deposed from the position of Queen as for punishment for attempting to murder a royal and such she will be executed the Executioner puts Arista ahead on

the place Arista looks towards the emperor while Jun closed her eyes from watching tears came falling from Arista face and she thinks in her mind if I could begin my life again I won't love you again after that we heard a Shunk sound you are the one who I look upon the path you take will be your fate and what you wish for will be your path the one who carves one's own fate that is your name your name is orisha opens her eyes in a room and wonders a familiar ceiling a silver Shield the

Insignia of our house why is that there how odd she Rises up from the bed and pulls aside the curtains looking outside the windows she thinks this is this is just like the Mansion of house Monique she gets shocked and confused and thinks in her mind what is going on I left home when I was 16 so why am I here now the maid Lena opens the door and came inside she asked are you awake good morning lady Tia orisha asked while confused Lena how are Lena giggles and said oh no look at you your

hair is a mess while Arisa was standing confused she said you're already 10 now were you not able to fall asleep orisha quickly looks in the mirror she said what 10 years old the she wonders how did this happen I was executed for treason oh Father she asked Lena what about father Lena replied the Maris he is usually in the training Hall at this hour after hearing that Arisha dashes away while she was going Lena said oh lady Tia you're still wearing your pajamas while running through the hallway servants who saw Arisa greets her good

morning morning lady Tia who's in such a hurry lady Tia while going towards the training Hall Arisa thinks in her mind I have to see I must know if father is safe ah please I don't care if this is a dream or reality I have to hurry to Father after reaching the training Hall she saw her father and shouted father her father turns towards her and while surprised he said Tia looking at his father Arisha thinks in her mind father was always loyal to the throne and put the Royal Throne before any but in his

last moment father thought of me more importantly than the Empire orisha jumps towards her father and hugs him while hugging her father she said papa papa papa while tears were dropping from her face she thinks in her mind he's alive I'm so glad while sobbing she said Papa all the night and her father were confused while all of this unfolded after few moments Lena was brushing arisa's hair while brushing she said my I was so surprised to think that that the daughter of the Marquis the young lady who is the epitome of etiquette would run

outside in her pajamas in the morning nobody would believe it unless they saw it with their own eyes Lena asked did you have a nightmare orisha thinks in her mind a nightmare maybe but they felt so real Lena said you will begin your lessons as the empress soon orisha tells in her mind Lena got married and left when I entered the Royal Palace but now she looks even younger than the last time I saw her and me too looking at her own hands she thinks small hands Lena then said the Marquis seemed a bit startled

as well you were always so quiet yet you ran into him in tears after hearing that Arisa leans down while feeling embarrassed she thinks in her mind that's right what in the world did I do while Arisa was embarrassed Lena asked what's wrong orisha tells in her mind I cried in his arms while everyone was looking what a disgrace how can I face him again like this after a while in the dining room while sitting her father said come here orisa said I'm sorry for being late father orisha sits on a chair and starts eating

she thinks in her mind ah this is so awkward she then looks towards her father and thinks and father looks a bit odd she wonders is there something that displeases him he must be upset because of my behavior in the morning orisa then said um father are you feeling uncomfortable anywhere her father flinches after hearing that Arisa gets surprised by her father's reaction huh no her father said it's nothing at all she thinks was that my imagination just now her father then said H Tia she replied yes her father clears his throat and said well

it's about while thoughtful Arisa wonders is his throat uncomfortable her father continued why don't you call me like thee her father hesitates from speaking but then he said I mean you called me it's nothing continue with your meal Arisha was surprised from her father's unexpected Behavior looking at her father Arisa thinks in her mind father is alive he's talking to me and we're eating together if this is a dream then it's such a happy dream I don't want to wake up even if it means I must sleep forever later in her room while sleeping Arista

remembers the emperor and his harsh Behavior towards her she remembers his words make no mistake you're nothing to me your child will never be my Heir your father is dead he was EX uted this morning orisha gasped and quickly Rises up from her bed and breaths heavily she then looks towards the mirror and saw her reflection the next day Lena said it's time for your tea soon while Arisa was reading the book Lena asked should I bring it to your room Arisha said no > go downstairs Lena asked you will while smiling Lena said there's

your favorite today marang Pai you're too thin lady Tia you must eat more Arisa replied is that so she tells in her mind after wandering in the cruel memories I open my eyes to see the people I missed my home that I longed for such warm days she wonders which one is the dream and which one is reality I wonder how long this will last while going away her father said I may be late so don't worry about my supper orisa asked father are you leaving her father replied yes I must visit the palace orisa

said what but you don't need to work today her father then said I have something urgent to discuss with Duke arant orisha said I see her father looks towards her and extends his hand and Pats Arisa he asked Tia are you not feeling well huh he asked or do you have something to say to me you suddenly broke into tears last time as well orisa replied it it's nothing I'm not sick at all F father dot dot her father said really looking at his father's confused face Arisa thinks ah he's making that face again her

father then stands back up and said well if you say so orisha said take care father her father takes a sigh and said so you won't call me like that anymore huh while her father gets up on the carriage he said I'll be back soon looking at his father's Carriage going Arisa tells in her mind father and I were always cold with each other only sharing the absolutely necessary manners but now he's different from how I remembered him he patted me on on the head a bit awkwardly so and I could feel his warmth through

the gloves perhaps my life was so pitiful that God decided to grant me one last dream while she was thinking she wonders God that's right Temple of Vita the ruling god of the Empire perhaps the Temple of the Oracle will have the answer I should go tomorrow to be certain at night while lying in her bed Arisa suddenly opens her eyes while gasping she Rises up and thinks in her mind so dark I can't see anything where is this where am I is this the palace or while she was wondering someone grabs her hand while

shocked she asked who's there her father said Tia it's me she said father she then quickly huggs her father and repeatedly said papa papa papa while patting her head her father said you must have had a bad nightmare while crying Arisa thinks in her mind a nightmare is it really I don't know which one is my reality anymore but I don't want to lose this warm at morning her father said I should go with you orisha said I'm all right you must be busy father her father said you had trouble falling asleep last night I

can't send you to the temple alone while sitting in the carriage Arisa said don't worry I'll be careful the carriage starts running and while looking outside Arisha thinks in her mind father he held my hand until I fell asleep last night she thinks I can't be certain which is my reality but if those memories were a dream and if that was a dream of the future there might be an oracle that I don't know about Great temple sanus V at the temple the Priestess said may you be blessed with life please announce your name and

the purpose for your visit orisa introduced herself I am Arisa L Monique I wish to read any oracles from the past few months the Priestess replied there is nothing as such the Oracle from 5 years ago was the most recent one orisha thinks in her mind what should I do looks like they don't have any then she said to the Priestess then I would like to read all the oracles from the past 10 years the Priestess said I will show you to the prayer room after reading all of those oracles Arisa thinks in her mind

there is nothing that suggests anything about my situation she remembers her old self and thinks I was 17 years old in that memory if this place where I am 10 is my reality that means I've spent seven years in a Night's Dream she remembers the emperor's cold gaze and thinks but can that really be so I can still feel his cold glare and the misery I felt from back then as if it was yesterday she wonders am I simply in a dream right now while standing up she said to herself few what should I do

now the air around her starts blowing and then she heard a voice you are here my child after hearing those words orisa got transported to another space orisa shouted who are you who's talking to me right now the voice said I am the one who Imus life into all you all call me Vita Arista thinks in her mind this can't be is someone playing a prank The Voice then said you wish to know which is the truth between yourself now and yourself when you were 17 while surprised Arisha asked H how did you the voice

interrupts her and said nothing can escape from my gaze the answer to your question is that both are your reality orisha asked how can that be are you saying that I traveled back in time the voice replied that is correct I have used my power of life to turn back the time of all there is orisa asked why would you do that the voice replied because the fates of too many have been distorted by my blessed child Arisa asked a blessed child the voice said my blessed child was faded to be born in this world

however she ended up falling to another world due to a Twist in Dimensions I brought her back into this world when I found her but that ended up twisting the fate of many including you orisha thinks in her mind another world Jun Jun is the blessing child orisha then said then why why didn't you send another Oracle about Jun if I knew that she would appear From Another World in the first place perhaps I would have given up on him earlier The Voice then said because when I lost my blessed child your string of fate

though thin ended up tangling with him Arisha gets shocked after hearing that she said how can that then do you mean to say that I was Tangled with him in order to fill the void left by junun absence The Voice replied that is so Arisa said then my love my painful love for him wasn't my own will you're saying it was an emotion decided simply by Fate The Voice said that is so Arisa then said I worked so hard yet I was never loved back and that was all because I was just a temporary substitute

tears starts dropping from her eyes she said my existence was simply meant to be a substitute for the Blessed child loved by God the voice said that is so then Arisa shouted don't play with me I lived my life in pain for something like that while she had everything she vent her anger saying you're a God that overlooks all life equally yet you made a child blessed by God how can you interfere with people as you wish the voice said humans cannot avoid the decision that is given unto them and it is called fate Fatam

Arisa interrupts the voice and said no I refuse a fate like that the voice said a human cannot avoid fate Arista remembers the emperor in her mind and said I TR loved him even though he was never warm towards me I did all her work as an empress that was pushed to me instead the people of the Empire belittled me called me a Wicked Woman yet I did not bear any ill will towards any of them she was thinking God must be testing me like this in order to help me get stronger God is fair

and wise God will grant me something better after such hardship that is what I believed while sobbing she thinks in her mind yet in truth I had no freedom to begin with I was forced to exist as his woman because of Fate I lived my life without knowing the warmth of my father's love the voice then said my child I pity you but a fate that is decided cannot be changed so I will instead give you a gift to reward you for your Twisted Fate orisa stopped crying and said a reward what a joke she

said fine I will accept that then she shouted with anger don't you dare be mistaken I will never think of you as God and I will never thank you I will not believe in God anymore I will reject you with all my life I will be the one to throw away a God the same as I was discarded after hearing all of that the voice then said that is fine do as you wish after that Arisha starts seeing a star shapes around her and she also heard crackling sound all around her while Arisa was startled

the voice said you are the one who I look upon then voice continued you are the one who refuses fate the path you take shall be your fate and what you wish for will be your path the one who carves one's own fate that is your name Arisa pioneer Monique orisha falls asleep while hearing those words orisha wers in her dreams what did I live my life for what is my existence in the end I was nothing while in Her Dream she heard someone calling Tia Tia she thinks what it's noisy Tia she said leave

me alone The Voice continues Tia Tia Tia while covering her ears Arisa thinks I have nothing more to give to you my effort my pride my tears my love and tia you rejected my whole being what more do you want from me the voice didn't stop calling Tia Tia Tia someone said s please please open your eyes she heard Tia wake up TIA orisha opens her eyes and saw her father and other Maids worried looking at her Lena asked Lady Tia you're awake orisa then called her father her father said Lena you're finally awake Arisha

looks at her father crying and thinks in her mind tears my father who was always so Stern the servant said I'm so relieved lady Tia I was so surprised to hear that you collapsed at the temple we thought something was terribly wrong since you didn't wake up for such a long time hearing there worries Arisa feels touched and thinks in her mind that's right I'm not alone now I have my father who loves me enough to abandon his duties Lena whom I've been with since I was young and the people from my family who worry

about me I have people around me who will hold my hand if I reach out I don't need to yearn for God's salvation all I had to do was look around I finally realized that when I thought even God abandoned me while feeling grateful for all the affection she got she said to everyone everyone thank you so much she firmed her resolve and thinks in her mind I want to live once more together with these people I will live a different life from before after some time while having te her father said you're looking much

better do you feel better now t IA her father asked orisa replied yes I'm sorry for making you worry fath while she was talking she saw her father looking distant she stops and changes her wording ha Papa Tia smiled softly surprised by how much her father liked being called Papa her father said anyway I'm relieved he said by the way Tia orisha replied yes he asked can you tell me what happened at the temple Tia said well Tia pondered internally what can I possibly say I died when I was 17 because of treason and then

I opened my eyes to find out I'm 10 years old again there all just memories in my head about the things yet to come after Arisa doesn't said anything her father said while you fainted God sent a new Oracle the Royal Palace was quite busy thanks to that he told orisa that the Oracle granted you a new name orisa wonders a new name that was given to me by God that means her father said Arisa Pioneer l unique and so the emperor wishes to see you she thinks in her mind oh dear Tia thought so

this was the reward they went to the Palace standing in front of the palace building her father said you haven't been to the Palace in a long time do you remember looking at the palace her days of misery came to her mind and she Shivers the Royal Palace where she only remembered misery and dismay Tia felt a surge of fear I'm scared she admitted quietly she thinks in her mind I feel like I can hear the the mocking laughter already she thought her heart pounding her father looks at her and she was trembling he picked

her and lifts her up in the sky Esa gets surprised her father then carries her and went inside the palace the servants present at the palace saw her father and get surprised one of them calls sir Monique has arrived H Commander gasp huh Tia flinched orisha looks at the guards who were surprised and said to her father P please let me down Papa her father said to her it's not that far stay still feeling blushed Arisa thinks in her mind but everyone is looking this way her father greets the emperor greetings your majesty the so

son of the Empire her father said bowing the emperor said welcome sir Monique and the young lady Monique as well the 33rd emperor of the castina Empire Merkin Lu sha castina the emperor said I was hoping to discuss some matters with you all how convenient since we're all here now other people present their were is respected Duke arant deas commander of the first night Squadron Duke Ruth de verita Chancellor her father said we await your word your majesty then the emperor said I feel there are still those who wish for the demise of this Empire

so we must be prepared as such I was thinking of increasing the numbers of our soldiers and knights we'll need funds to support that and I think increasing taxes will be appropriate what do you think the Duke arant flinches after hearing that he stated his opinion NAD said what recruiting more Knights is already trouble enough but increasing taxes on top of that your majesty why do you always harass me like this what did I do pointing towards arisa's father he said whenever there's a new policy like this I'm the one who gets harassed by all

the Nobles this one here is too loyal and says yes to everything he complained while laughing the emperor said well isn't that why I'm telling you this in advance the Duke then said hmph I'm sure there will be opposition but all right if his majesty thinks it's fine orista recalls her memories and thinks in her mind this won't work Tia thought her mind racing in the past this policy it eventually failed and even led to a riot The increased taxes became a burden for the common people instead of the Nobles who should have paid though

the emperor added I would like to hear what the young lady thinks of this matter the emperor said I have heard much about your bright mind lady Tia so what do you think of this policy after hearing that Arisa complied she thinks in her mind I see they let me hear this on purpose she tells in her mind Duke Ruth is a wise Chancellor he would know the problems in this policy yet he's staying quiet because the emperor is testing me I already stand out because of the Oracle if I stand out any more than

this they will become more wary of me but why so orisa stated his opinion that that policy should not be implemented your majesty the Empire is expected to go through a severe drought soon she said the Empire suffers a severe drought every 30 to 40 years the sign of that coming drought is the below average Harvest that precedes it for years if this policy is executed the people of the Empire will suffer from starvation for years while she was talking she thinks in her mind I know it will happen so I must stop this she

said and this year is the beginning of the signs then the emperor asked his Chancellor what do you think Duke Ruth replied what the lady has mentioned is true there are signs of a drought coming starting this year H however increasing the military power of the Empire is still necessary the emperor then asked how will we do that now Arisha thinks in her mind I've already spoken too much and I can't turn back recalling events from her past life she tells in the past the Second Son of Duke Ruth came up with a new policy

I am sorry for him since he was later recognized for thinking of this policy but I must think of the people who might starve orisa then said there is a way by taxing luxury items tax luxury items that are not a necessity but used by Nobles the merchants will sell the goods for a price that includes the tax and in turn the throne can collect those taxes from the merchants Duke Ruth smiled after hearing her suggestion he said h i see the lady's suggestion is great your majesty he further explains luxury items are better for

showing off the more expensive they are if we tax luxury items as the lady has suggested we will be able to collect the funds without much opposition then Emperor said very well come up with a detailed plan and execute the policy Duke Ruth said yes your majesty the emperor praised aristy and said I am truly amazed to see how brilliant you are in person orisha complied and said I am honored your majesty then the emperor said lady Tia I wonder why you didn't speak your full name just now you know what the meaning of the

name is did you choose not to speak it because of the eyes here or replied please I do not understand what the emperor added no of course not you are a brilliant young lady he said with a serious face do you dare to say that you really don't know that a middle name from God means a right to inherit the throne Arista looks at the emperor and realized that the emperor was no longer looking at his son's future wife he was looking at his or his son's rival the stare of an emperor his hostile eyes

look so much like the eyes from someone in the past the emperor questioned you knew that I was testing you so why didn't you ignore it Duke Arin said your majesty the emperor conu if you faint innocence and foolishness perhaps you could have avoided my suspicion orisa then said that I couldn't back down for the sake of my own safety when I knew the people of the empire were at risk she thinks in her mind a sudden appearance of a possible heir to the throne who is not a royal perhaps the emperor is considering to

banish me or even house Monique after hearing those words the emperor starts laughing he said while laughing my my looks like I frightened the young lady too much do not fear I don't think of you as a threat to the prince he said with a relaxed expression this Throne isn't something that can be taken simply with a name I didn't raise my child to be such a fragile person Duke arant asked your majesty why did you hold such a grave mood if you weren't going to do anything the emperor said to Arista you are not

fit to be a ruler child if I were you I would have faint innocence this moment and sent word about the drought through more elusive means your heart is too soft and kind to be a ruler after hearing that Arisha thinks in her mind I have a kind heart I've never heard that in my life I was always told that I'm a cold objective person the emperor said an emperor must take care of oneself in order to lead the Empire and so someone who willingly accepts danger is not fit to be a ruler however the

emperor added your kind heart and Brilliance that thinks of the people of this Empire are perfect as an empress and that makes me very sad at this moment Duke Ruth asked why do you say so your majesty the emperor then said while remembering the prince you all know very well why that child grew up as the one and only heir to my throne and because of that he has to be the center of attention at all times he said to Arista you're a brilliant young lady who was given a name by God if you were

to be praised I wonder how that arrogant child will respond outside the throne room the guards greets the prince your highness welcome your highness lesser son of the Empire the prince said I am here to see the emperor one of the Guard replied your highness I beg your pardon the emperor has forbidden anyone from entering at the moment the prince asked who is in the audience hall right now one of them replied Duke Ruth Duke arant Marquis Karen and his young daughter the prince thinks they are discussing something important enough to forbid any entry Tis

so why is that child allowed in there while I am barred from entering the prince turns around and starts walking while going away he thinks right it's not like this is the first time father has always been strict to me yet he always treats the child dearly back in the throne room orista said while hesitating I beg your pardon your majesty the emperor allow go ahead tell me what you think before saying anything orisa hesitates orisa said I do not wish to be involved with the prince in any way or matter meanwhile while walking the

prince remembers Duke Ruth saying your highness have you heard about lady Tia she's only 10 now but her accomplishments are outstanding her etiquette and studies are all perfect to be the partner of a good ruler the prince gets frustrated by everyone praising Arisha he thinks in his mind lady Tia everyone is praising that girl wherever I go he said to his father in his mind you should just announce her as your Heir instead of me back in the throne room the emperor said you don't want to be involved he asked why is that her father

also asked asked Tia Arisha thinks in his mind I have to make a choice here I can't repeat my life from the past again you can't send a girl with a right to inherit the throne to marry a different family or to another country yet you're worried about the future if you announce me as the future Empress then she asked the emperor then aren't you planning to welcome me as a future Queen the emperor said that is correct while Duke Ruth stays silent while feeling agitated Arisha thinks in her mind like father like son how

can they be so alike then the emperor asked but you are the foretold partner in the Oracle are you not asterisk H orista replied we cannot be certain whether I am truly the mentioned partner or not she said the Oracle mentions the birth of a girl however we do not know whether that birth means born at a moment or if the girl is still in her mother's womb at the time while remembering Jun in her mind she thinks right it's certain because the foretold partner is not me it's the girl loved by the god Vita

a girl who appeared from another world I was born the year after the Oracle Jun is a year older than me the Oracle was referring to her but nobody will believe me even if I say that now asterisk she then said please give me some time your highness I will find another solution if the matter is not urgent at the moment it is better to step back and assess the situation in order to strive for the betterment of both parties she added you've taught me this just a few moments ago your majesty in regard less

of what you choose I know I will remain the future wife of the prince for a while the emperor said H so you've predicted even that Duke Ruth smiles and Praises arcti in his mind what an amazing child she even surmised that there will be Strife among the throne and the Royal factions in such a short time if the engagement is broken now people will speak of a disagreement between house Monique and the Royal throne and that will be a perfect excuse for the noble faction who opposes the Royal Throne Duke arant also pises her

and thinks Karen Shore has an amazing daughter then the emperor said good the prince will have his Coming of Age ceremony in a few years I will wait until then while looking at Arisa he admires her and thinks this child is only 10 she will grow to be an enviable brilliant young woman after some time while walking in the palace Arisa said to herself few that was exhausting I don't think < ever get used to his Majesty's imposing Aura my back aches from being so nervous back there she thinks in her mind I've bought some

time but I don't know how long this will last what should I do from now on while walking Arisa enters the palace Garden looking at the big tree in the middle she thinks in her mind huh this place is she remembers something and quickly tries to leave she said to herself I have to go back it was a habit of mine to walk this place when I'm thinking I can't be here what if what if I what if I run into someone here while leaving the garden she heard a voice saying who's there while Arisa

was thinking in a place like this what if I run into the voice she heard continued this is the emperor's Garden this place is not open to just anyone while turning Arisa thought I can never forget that voice she looks at the prince from the edge of bushes Prince ruis she thinks in her mind why did he have to be here freaking out she thinks oh no oh no I can't let him see me heun definitely get mad at me asterisk her heart was racing she thinks in her mind what what do I do run

the prince then saido not hide and show yourself he continued how impertinent did you not hear me asterisk orisa thinks in her mind oh no don't come here I I need to avoid him first she prays in her mind please don't come this way a gust of wind came and her hat flew orisa tries to catch her hat and she suddenly came in front of the prince the prince gets surprised by her he said you you're the daughter of Maris Aron your audience with the emperor is finished asterisk Arisa looking at the prince remains stunned

and doesn't say anything the prince asked why won't you say anything he saidou being rude I'm sure you know who I am so why are you behaving like that Arisha still doesn't say anything she thinks in her mind my mouth won't open my hand my body they won't move the prince asked again are you not going to answer me how disrespectful of you Arisa while stunn thinks in her mind I can't even turn away from his gaze the prince then said how absolutely insolent you are you think you can keep your head high simply because

everyone Praises you orisa trembles and the prince stops talking then he said well fine I see there's no point in speaking to you any more than this the prince starts walking and went past by Arisha the prince walks away after he left Arisa slumps and falls to the ground she remembers the prince words from her past life lick my Shu you are nothing to me your father is dead feeling distressed she thinks in her mind ah I have to escape this I have to escape this cruel fate I can't repeat that life not again for

myself for my father I will continue to fight and get away from all this going towards the Mina state in the carriage The Coachman said sir we will arrive at the Monika State soon allena said go faster he said to H susel aristela Monique I look forward to this back at Monique household aresa asked what did you say Lena who is here Lena replied it's sir alenis deita I showed him to the guest lounge for now how should I proceed orisha thinks in her mind Alan is De verita the younger son of Duke Ruth de

verita in the past he came up with the luxury tax and became renowned as a young genius he was one of the famous people in the Empire along with the master swordsman carain duras I heard he was smarter than his own father he invented and improved several policies all by himself recalling her past life she thinks I've never met him before but I was always amazed at his talent that surpassed his Renown walking down the stairs Arisa thinks in her mind but now you see a person is here to see me not my father she

remembers in her mind oh when I went to the Palace last time I suggested his luxury tax to the Emperor as if it was my idea she thinks in her mind what if he already thought of the tax at this age asterisk while iing she thinks and what if he's here to question me about how I knew it she then reassured herself and thinks B Beal Tia nothing is certain yet entering the room Arisha said I've made you wait greetings sir allendis I am Arisa La Monique allendis said greetings lady Arisa I am alen d

de verita Arisa said please have a seat after looking at him Arisha thinks in her mind he has emerald eyes the eyes of the verita family bloodline I think he was 3 years older than me while drinking tea allena said I'm sure this must have been a surprise for you I should have sent word beforehand but I couldn't wait any longer orista replied I see Alena said actually I am here to ask you a question lady orisa she asked what is it while looking at her he said do you know about the new policy that

will take effect soon she thinks in her mind he's getting to the point right away I should act like I've at least heard of it instead of feigning ignorance she calmly said you mean the luxury tax I've heard of it from my father I think it's a tax for luxury items that Nobles purchase Allen is surprised by her words asked you think that's odd do you not know about it aren't you the one who suggested it orisha said that's she thinks while talking so this is it he knew everything from the beginning alenis said so

you did suggest it orisa said yes it's true I did she thinks in her mind what should I do in the end it's true that I used another's idea as if it was my own she thinks I must apologize alenis said I see while excitedly jumping he grabs arisa's hand and said I knew it my guess was right he said I heard you just turned 10 this year you must be a true genius I'm so amazed Arisha feels confused and her mind doesn't process anything because elendis is so close to her while the maids were

looking at them Arisha said um s sir alenis said to her that's so formal you can just call me allendis he asked may I call you by your name as well orisa I haven't met any peers who I can talk to on the same level I feel like I can discuss things with you looking at him Arisa thinks in her mind his smile is so bright and genuine alenis Aid D so try calling my name now she thinks in her mind nobody has ever smiled like this for me she said um then Al allendis she

then asked how did Sir I mean how did you know that I suggested the luxury tax alenis told her that my father started reviewing that policy one day after he came back from the palace he looked really serious but I've never seen him study anything like that policy before he said so it's easy to assume that someone suggested it at the palace right orista replied that's true alenis then said yes yes in that day father mentioned him he stopped for a moment and then he said I mean he praised you my father is very stingy

on approval so I rarely hear him praise someone but that day he couldn't stop praising you for a while it was like you were his own daughter after hearing that Arisha thinks in her mind so he wasn't here to accuse me but still she said actually the luxury tax Isn't My Idea alenis asked what do you mean by that orista replied W well I read it from a book he then asked really what was the title of the book orista said it it didn't have a title she said I found the book by chance in

the Royal Library but when I tried to find it again it was gone while talking she thinks in her mind I can't tell him that it's his idea from the future alen is said with a thoughtful expression is that so Arisa looks at him and thinks ah he seems disappointed she thinks in her mind I suppose we won't be calling each other by name now he only did that out of respect since he thought the policy was my idea while taking a sip Alena said H I see so it was from a book orisha thinks

in her mind I was so flustered by his friendly attitude just a second ago and now I feel disappointed too the heart can be so fickle she said that's how it is Sir allendis after that allendis said cheerfully wait what's this perhaps you thought I would take back my offer of calling each other casually because the policy isn't your idea while surprised after hearing that Arisha said oh but alandis continued it's not important who thought of the idea first the point is that you confidently spoke your thoughts in front of that scary Emperor while getting

close to Arisha alenis said I've taken a liking to you he said either way I understand that you're bound by certain circumstances so here's my suggestion when you are freed from those circumstances one day will you marry me orisa get shocked after hearing that she shouted W what alenis said so how about it I'm quite the catch you know well you'll learn more about me in due time while shock Arisa thinks in her mind the genius of the century wants to spend time with me and even propose to me at our first meeting what is

going on someone please tell me what's happening while Arisa was confused Alena said so what do I someone interrupts him and said not ever both of them looks towards arisa's father who was standing at the door Arisha said fa father her father said Tia come here alenis said g greetings Maris Karen her father asked alenis isn't this the first time you've met my daughter he said proposing on the first day doesn't seem plausible alenis said I fell for her at first sight Marquis said you are only 13 this year are you not alenis said love

is not restricted by age is it it looks like there was a war going on between allendis and Maris Karen looking at them Arisha thinks in her mind W what should I do I don't think I can interfere between them her father said sir alandis I am not here for idle chatter alandis replied and I am not joking here sir looking towards Arisa he said I have eyes and ears as well I know that there's a possibility that Arisa will not become the empress he asked and what will everyone think if the engagement with the

Royal Throne is called off he said people will whisper that perhaps the daughter of house Monique has a fault after hearing that her father aggressively said I will not stand and watch nor allow that to happen orisha looks at her father admirably father alenis asked how will you stop Nobles from talking to each other he said after the engagement is called off house Monique's reputation will plummet and what's more only second rate and good for nothing's aiming only for the title of Marquis will begin to Circle her Arisha grabs her father's robe and thinks in

her mind father will be humiliated because of me I didn't think that far ahead then Alena said what do you think Marquis Karen if you would allow me to I will become a good Shield when the time comes as the son of Duke Ruth our families are on the same side her father said firmly my daughter's opinion comes first and foremost alenis said while smiling of course her father then said fine then if you say so I will approve of you as her friend and not her fiance he said with a serious face but only

if you pass my one condition alenis asked condition yes while sitting on a sofa alenis whined about ah this is bad I need to be strong enough to defeat not just one Knight but a whole Squad I'm doomed orisa Giggles hehe alenis said don't laugh our family has been bad with the sword for Generations my father and brother are both bad at dancing or Sports I didn't even try because I thought I would shame myself orisa said while imagining I see why house verita has a lot of civil officers instead she said if you didn't

suddenly propose marriage out of the blue then this wouldn't have happened alenis said but I'm being serious he said I'm sorry orisa I've made a deal without even asking your opinion first orisha said I accept your apology alenis smiles and said thank you lady Arisa Arista thinks in her mind allendis he's polite and kind while cheering himself up alenis said now then I'll have to train hard starting tomorrow I have to be acknowledged as your friend for now orisa smiles and thinks he seems like a good person while shaking hands with Arisa allena said to

our new friendship Arista I know we'll be just fine orisha tells in her mind everyone has a friend but I was not allowed to have anyone in the past a friend someone who can stand with me on equal grounds and now I finally have one two she then joyfully said yes I think so too the Royal Palace Heron said your highness here are all the books you were looking for the rest seemed to be at the West Library shall I get them the prince was reading a book some students came there and while surprised they

said ah greetings your highness future son of the Empire the prince replied greetings while going away one of them whispered that surprised me I ran into him this morning too I didn't think he would still be here the other one said let's come back later after they left Prince said Haron Heron said yes the prince said said normally a noble that visits the Royal Palace wouldn't forget my face or not know about me right Haron said of course he said not just the Nobles anyone who enters this place surely knows you by appearance alone then

the prince asked then why would someone refused to greet me and instead stare at me without a word Heron asked pardon while laughing he said haha that can't happen it's impossible to enter this Palace without any etiquette Who would show such disrespect in front of you you the prince the prince said right Heron asked what do you mean by that your highness perhaps did someone really do that the prince said it's nothing while remembering his encounter with Arisa he thinks so that girl did simply ignore me how impudent back at the Marquis Manor orisha visits

the training ground she looks for allendis there and thinks is allendis not here yet there are more people than I thought I can't see all the way to the back a knight came to Arisa and said lady Arisa good morning Arisha looks at him and thinks in her mind oh no who was this the Knight asked what brings you to the training grounds orisha said um you are sir le le said I'm honored that you remember me the other night busy in training heard them talking they all came rushing to Arisha and greets her it's

been a while my lady welcome my lady my lady orisa gets baffled from the crowd she said oh no um everyone good morning she thinks in her mind I don't know who any of these Knights are they asked are you here to see the commander he's not here yet may we help you with anything would you like to wait here one of them said you came here early in the morning last time too orisha gasped and remembers that embarrassing memory s gasped did you have a nightmare while freaking out Arisha said oh um he asked

are you all right today AR just said while feeling embarrassed that's that time I'm so ashamed of that morning she said everyone please please forget about that she remembers in her mind I cried so loudly in front of everyone the Knight happily said yes my lady they said if you wish we will be careful not to mention it from now on though we don't mind seeing you like that my lady please don't mind it too much sir League said if you wish to observe please take a seat here the morning sun can still be harsh

orisha thinks in her mind I've never greeted them properly until now they all seem to be good people after a while alenis came rushing to orisha and said Arisa good morning are you here to cheer for me orisa said your training starts today right do your best allendis he said yes thank you I'll have to work hard to be your love I mean to be your friend the night present there looks at him jealously her father also came to the training ground on of the night said everyone gather around while sitting and watching them train

Arisa said Lena I've always only read books but I've never thought of visiting a place such as this Lena replied well you've always been quite frail orisha said yes but I never knew there were so many people training here while Arisa was looking towards her father Lena said Maris Karen is the commander of the second Squad of the castina Empire they are the shields that guard the empire under the Lord's commands while training allendis waves towards allendis and her father glares at him orisha thinks in her mind Knights Shields that guard the Empire after some

time orisha enters the room and said father have some tea her father said yes thank you while having tea Arisha said father I have a favor to ask her father takes a sip and said go on Arisha said with a straight face I wish to learn how to wield a sword her father said you can't even run without falling how will you hold a sword I don't recommend it the voice of reason echoed orisha said but I really want to learn her father said you were born with a frail body harsh training will only strain

you even more came the cautionary response Arisa pleaded earnestly I'll work really hard I want to overcome my weak physique to build up my strength at least please can't there be some way I can learn her father inquired before that let me ask you one thing Tia does it have anything to do with the prince he said before you said you didn't want to be involved with him at all Arisha thinks in her mind it's true that's but I can't tell father about all that about what I went through before and how I already died

once he wouldn't believe me I thought struggling with the truth I couldn't share her father suddenly asked Tia perhaps did you remember something from before while shock Arisha thinks in her mind what remember about what what is Father ask asking me about does her heart raced and she thinks does Father know my past right I might not be the only one to return from the future if father remembers the miserable past just like me then what must I do her father clarified about when you were little her attension eased slightly and she asked when I

was little she thinks in her mind oh he's talking about something else few she asked her father but what do you mean when I was little I met the prince for the first time a few days ago at the palace then I suppose not never mind what I just said her father said brushing it off returning to the original topic he asked so then what is your reason she blurted out I don't want to get married father I just want to stay like this and live happily with you papa after saying that she immediately regretted

it what did I just say oh no she thinks in her mind at this rate I didn't just turn back into a child's body even my mind is becoming child how could I say something so childish after that her father extends both his hand and said Tia come here orisa walks to her father and hugs him her father while hugging her said I thought you were all grown up now but you're still a baby her father said right if that's what you wish for let's do that but I am a strict teacher so prepare yourself

he warned with a smile yes yes papa she agreed eagerly relief and excitement filling her voice the next morning good morning orisha allendis greeted her cheerfully orisha said hello alandis he asked are you here to cheer for me today as well orisha giggles and said hehe no not really alenis said so I was wrong all the night present there looks towards them I'm going to start training today too she announced alenis said really wow this is great he hugs Arisa excitedly all the night present there feeling jealous thinks why that little fool I heard someone

mutter under their breath then we can be together every morning from now on alenis said his excitement bubbling over alandis you should let go first orisa suggested gently orista thinks in her mind alandis he must have been nervous all by himself here right I'm really nervous too she admitted quietly while they were hugging each other her father came and separated both of them her father cut through the moment and said what are you doing sir allendis allendis explained hastily I didn't mean anything more sir I was just happy to learn together with Arisa he commanded

enough you can start by running 30 laps Tia 10 laps for you huh both of them exclaimed surprised by The Challenge alenis chuckled nervously and said haha looks like I'm not very welcomed at the moment orisa wondered will I be able to finish 10 laps dot huffing and puffing they began to run you can do it orisa alenis told her even as my legs started to give out meanwhile at the RAS estate his wife said you've come unusually early today Duke arant replied I'm back my dear I want to spend some time with my dear

wife once in a while his wife said my so smooth words yet you always neglect me otherwise she teased him she said I heard you had an audience with the emperor is he in good health she asked changing the subject he replied while smiling the same as ever he's always been strong though he seems to miss his younger sister that he hasn't seen in a while his wife replied while surprised really how unusual he gently said of course you are the only family his majesty has left what do you think how about visiting the palace

sometime soon he'd like it if you visit him first once in a while his wife said well I do wish to but I'm busy these days and my body feels heavy while they were talking someone quickly opens the door and shouted mother he asked is brother back yet he said he would buy a new horse for me to ride s's excitement was palpable his mother gently reminded him S A Duke son shouldn't be so inelegant please mind your manners oh you're back father s exclaimed as he noticed his father entering the room his father asked

raising an eyebrow are you listening to your mother at all s apologized quickly yes I'm sorry his father informed him Cajun will be late today he said he would send the horse first so it should should be arriving soon s exclaimed already rushing towards the door then I'm going to welcome it now I can't wait I want to see it now oh dear that child don't run inside the house like that his mother called after him concerned I told you not to speak like that stop sign sign carain duras her voice thundered through the hall

her husband commented in his mind you've got quite a temper too my dear with a hint of amusement in his voice he said well it's good that he's healthy but I suppose his liveliness is too much to handle his wife replied with a knowing glance that's because he takes after a certain somebody Duke arant then said it would be better for him to visit the palace and be a playmate for the prince don't you think so she asked are you actually suggesting that her husband pointed out you are the one and only royal princess and

younger sister of his majesty the emperor that makes you the prince's ant eria Shaina duras first princess in Duchess ernia he said s and the prince are pretty much cousins so it's not like we need to be wary of any disapproving eyes isn't that so Duchess Oria questioned who is being wary of who her glare sharp her husband then said If that's not the case then it should be fine to visit the palace once in a while after sometime at Palace Hall while walking Duchess ernia thinks in her mind uh that snake ernia thought to

herself he's starting to take after my brother he knows everything yet he says something like that have sign spend time with the prince that won't do cousins are not while walking she notices the prince Duchess eria a voice interrupted her here he comes she muttered under her breath preparing herself she greeted in her tone formal greetings dear Prince future son of the Empire the prince said it's been a while what brings you here today she explained I am an outsider now that I'm a married woman I've just come to see how the family is doing

since I haven't visited in a long time I won't stay for long the prince responded kindly please don't put it like that I'm sure father would be delighted if you visit often she replied thank you for your kind words her voice softening looking at the books Heron was carrying she asked have you finished reading all those books those history books are known to be difficult even for grown-ups to comprehend the prince said oh well I've always been reading these the prince said modestly Heron remarked in awe with this the prince has finished all the books

in the Royal pal she said how amazing well in terms of Simply reading words that is Duchess ernia interjected a hint of criticism in her tone the prince said gently please you need not hesitate if you wish to say something she said oh no how could I dare do such a thing please do not worry you are in fact my aunt Duchess ernia the prince reassured her she said then please excuse me as I shall share my opinion as your aunt duess eria began her tone turning serious to think that you would be satisfied just

by finishing those books I cannot hide my disappointment at your laziness dear Prince Heron tries to speak how D the prince interrupts him and said is that how I seem the prince stammered taken aback she began saying yes since at your age his majesty excelled not only in books but also in strength and physique he used to say it was nothing special especially for someone who will rule the Empire it seems you still have a long way ahead of you dear Prince especially if you wish not to tarnish the reputation of the late Empress prior

she would be proud up there in the heavens only if you work hard don't you think after hearing that the prince's face looks serious and as Duchess arnia walks past by him she continued in any case you are the only child and heir of his majesty now oh but I suppose it's all fine I heard that the young lady from house Monique who is to be your fiance is quite amazing apparently she is the one who suggested the luxury tax I'm sure his majesty the emperor must be relieved to know that such an excellent Empress

will support you in the future must be quite a relief to know she murmured sarcastically Haron said my prince please don't mind that you're already doing more than he tried to console him she said it's not enough the prince snapped frustration boiling over he said really there is not even a single day when I am not compared with her meanwhile Arisa was training Hub hup hup the prince chanted what is the difference between her and me what makes her so different he questioned himself the weight of expectations bearing down on him ouch orista winced as

the wooden sword clattered to the ground alenis asked with concern what's wrong Arisa she replied looking down at her Palms my hands are stinging alenis said take off your gloves oh no all your blisters have opened up he pointed out pulling her hand gently to inspect the damage how did you bear with this until now it must have hurt Leen exclaimed my lady you have to get treated right away alenis offered oh I'll do it here give me your hand while caressing her hands he said this will sting but try to bear with it a

bit more all right Arisha agreed bracing herself looking at them Lena said to herself oh my oh my alenis suggested how about you take a break from training while your hand heals orisa protested shaking her head no I can't take a break just for this alenis Mark with a chuckle oh you're suddenly even more energetic you collapsed after running only two laps just a while ago orisha said you too alandis pathetically weak stamina her eyes lighting up she said actually it's because father gave me a sword alenis asked while surprised oh really the Marquis orisha

said yes although it's a sword for children it was the first time father gave me anything so I would have been happy with whatever it was she explained smiling alenis said you really like Maris Karen don't you huh orista responded but before the conversation could continue Lena the maid interrupted her voice filled with outrage hold on Sir League have you seen our lady's hands how could you make her train like that until her delicate hands turned to that pulp sir League replied calmly that's normal in the beginning the blisters on your hands will burst several

times and you won't be able to handle a sword properly until those blisters turn into Cal he continued of course her hand would be hurt from training that's why I didn't want the lady to start training Lena insisted clearly upset our lady's Health has always been very delicate ever since she was born how can you make her train just like the others who have always been healthy because the commander ordered us not to go easy on her sir League countered standing his ground Lena snapped and said you're so stubborn are you always this cruel sir

League sir League said are you saying a knight who protects the Empire should go soft and easy sir League retorted his voice firm Lena said if boiling you will soften you up I say you need 10 more days in hot water Lena shot back her temper flaring orisha intervened trying to sooe her Lena calm down don't get mad alandis also tries to calm down sir league and he said you should calm down a bit too sague orista said I'm all right Lena I started this because I wanted to I've made you worry Lena I'm sorry

and thank you Lena calms down from arisa's gentle words she jumps and hugs Arisha and said my lady oh dear to think that such a young and delicate lady would put herself through such hardship I'll have to ask the chef for an extra special nutritious meal for OG what's wrong sir League suddenly shouted came the panicked reply someone's been injured during practice sir League added the commander and Captain are both not here though orista urged Lena call the doctor hurry orisha asked frantically are you all right how deep is the wound I'm fine this is

uh the injured person groaned clearly in pain sir lead commanded stop the bleeding first orisa asked you're bleeding so much are you really all right uh orisa pleaded please try not to move I'm all right this is nothing the injured person insisted though clearly struggling Arisa said we've called for a doctor now so please bear with it just a bit more now you must wait inside the Mansion first all the night were looking shocked as they were looking at an angel an angel someone murmured here return to the arms of Vita with me an angel

stands before me I'm being welcomed by an Angel looks like orisha said Kia please hang on I've had a good life the injured person muttered weakly their voice fading doctor I saw an angel they mumbled as they drifted into unconsciousness doctor said trying to keep them conscious please hang on it's too early for that Arisa said I didn't know people could get injured like that while training shaken by the incident alenis asked gently indeed were you surprised we should finish treating your hands to allendis reminded her orisha said oh I almost forgot during the commotion

thank you allendis I'm all right now Arista assured him because your gloves are all worn out mine are quite sturdy and very protective you should use these for a while alenis offered folding out his gloves orisha asked concerned but what about you are your hands all right alenis admitted with a r smile he said no not at all actually I feel like I'm going to die my hands are so worn that I don't have the strength to hold a fork properly after training then you should Arisha began but alen has cut her off he said

but Arista it pains me even more to see you suffer it's no use if you collapse before Master how to handle that sword right he said softly allendis orisa whispered touched by his words allendis encouraged her we both have to work hard all right orisa agreed her resolve strengthened as she looked at him orisa wondered how can he be so kind did I know anyone who was so considerate of others like he is have I ever treated someone else like this before being considerate and being kind they were simply a means to achieve one's goal

allendis you've taught me so many things orisa thought to herself feeling grateful alen is suddenly called out looking towards the window orisa look it's the first snow orista thinks in her mind the first seasons of experienced after coming back in time so pretty orisha murmured captivated by the falling snowflakes alenis said it's already winter Arisha thinks in her mind every day is a new day and their passing by so peacefully she reflected alenis asked breaking the silence orisa what you like orisha asked a bit confused what do I like do you mean a color or

food something like that alenis replied anything that you can think of orista remarked your question is so abstract H if I had to choose I suppose that's snow why because it's pretty alenis asked curious orista explained while her eyes still on the falling snow she said because it looks warm and soft and it also looks like it would be sweet somehow Alan said while deep in thought H white is snow warm and sweet Arisha asked turning to look at him why are you asking this it's a secret alenis replied with a playful smile 3 months

later while handing over the gift alenis said it's my gift orisa orisa asked what's this alenis said while smiling the thing you said you liked last time while opening the gift Arisa thinks in her mind what I like wasn't it several months ago I think I said I like the snow would there be snow in a box like this orista looks inside the box and said wow it's so pretty Snow White Chocolate alenis told her that you said you liked something white warm and sweet as snow so I made it orisha joyfully said I've never

seen this before so chocolate can be made in white too allena smirking said well not before but I invented it since chocolate fits the conditions you said perfectly while admiring him Arisa thinks in her mind wow he invented this what a genius she thanked him saying thank you allendis it's so precious I don't know how I can eat this alenis said please enjoy it as much as you want because I've got one more thing with a hint of surprise toisa asked huh really alenis said while smiling and that would be he said me my skin

is white my heart is warm and can even be hot at times and what's more I'm also sweet Arisha said while smiling sming allendis you're really then allendis picks a sweat and extends his hand towards Arisa and said now say ah Arisa said while surprised I can help myself he said hurry my arms hurt she said but this is embarrassing while whining Alena said come on just once think of all the work I did to make this orisha said before opening her mouth G fine she thinks in her mind he's so Sly I can't refuse

if he says that alenis said so do you like it she replied yes it's everything that I wished for thank you allendis while they were talking maides and other Knights were listening to them but that was the beginning of everything that evening standing in front of lots of gifts Arisha asked what what is what is all of this everyone the knights around her said their gifts for you my lady we heard that you like something white warm and sweet while surprised Arisha asked what how did you sir League told so we each prepared something of

our own they asked which one do you fancy one of them said you would choose my cake right a scarf can't be sweet even if it's white and warm other one said what are you talking about you can tell this color is sweet and warm just by looking at it they argued between each other you fools white lace is the truest representation of how young ladies dream of something sweet and warm while taking a breath of relief Arisa said to herself few that surprised me I wonder how that happened all of a sudden did someone

overhear what I was talking about with alenis while she was busy in thoughts Lena came she called my lady orisha said yes with a pop sound cotton candy appeared orisha asked what's this Lena Lena said cotton candy she said we heard that you like something white warm and sweet this is the Masterpiece that all the maids made together orisha said th thank you this is sweet too right after that other servants ALS also present gifts to Arisa oh my lady I heard that you were looking for something white and sweet my lady here too my

lady while panicking by this sudden situation Arisa thinks in her mind just how many people heard our conversation I haven't even started the afternoon training yet I'm already exhausted she suddenly Heard a Voice saying Tia she replied yes she looks towards the voice and said oh Father allendis she asked her father did you have a safe trip her father replied yes while feeling relief Arisa thinks in her mind few thank goodness this will be over since father is here now her father also brings a gift and show it to Arisa her father clears his throat

and said AEM I've heard that you wanted something white warm and sweet he said I've thought about it for a while I hope it's what you've wished for orisa said wow it's white tea thank you papa she thinks in her mind oh dear even father us asked which gift do you like the most Lena asked my lady please tell us honestly the knights asked now my lady please choose one while pressured by everyone's questions she thinks in her mind H oh no this might become Troublesome if I say something carelessly while panicking she said I

just every alenis interrupts her and said you can't say something like everything all right orisha talks in her mind don't be so quick to notice she thinks in her mind but no matter how I think about it it has to be she said I really do appreciate all the gifts that everyone gave me but this chocolate was made by allendis for months after careful development and allendis is the one who asked me what I like in the first place so the chocolate while jumping with joy Allen said I knew it I knew you would choose

mine he said thank you Arista you're the only one who acknowledges my hard work seriously I had to work so hard with the chef while I developed this everyone glared at him after this her father then said to alenis you were so confident in the beginning that you will come to defeat a whole squad one day but it looks like you've had so much free time on your hands that you could develop chocolate he aggressively said I'll take that as your wish to train even harder starting tomorrow sir allendis while feeling pressured allendis said what

I think there is some kind of misunderstanding sir League also said we will all help with training the young Duke Lena said just wait we're going to beat you next year sir alandis while gasping Arisa thinks in her mind they're doing this again next year several years later people in the castina Empire would give white chocolate to the person they love that was the beginning of how white day came to be in the palace Heron said while holding a plate full of chocolates your highness you should rest a bit the prince asked what is that

Heron Haron replied it's chocolate I had it prepared since it helps to relieve stress the prince said what are you talking about you know very well that I despise sweets he then remembered a women in his mind saying Prince ruis Heron replied of course I did have that in mind he told I asked the chefs to make them less sweet so they should be all right the prince takes a bite and her and asked how is it the prince replied it's bitter in a distant memory the prince was standing near a tree sobbing and sniffing

he then Heard a Voice saying your highness a lady with red hair came and said it's such a ni ni day so why do you look so sad she extends her hand towards the prince and said would you like to go on a walk with me well your highness the prince said all right he tells in his mind a ray of sunlight shining through the lonely shadowy branches that was my impression of Yia L Monique at another time orisa's mother said your highness my daughter Tia please take while on her deathbed she hardly speaked she

said I hope you will take care of her the prince Prince shouted martianus martianus told her that with you I know she'll be safe then the prince shouted please wake up martianus yeremia martianus yeremia Heron called your Hine your highness are you all right the prince came back to his senses he said yes looks like I dozed off for a moment he takes a sigh Haron said your highness the emperor has sent a message for you he wishes you to join him for afternoon tea the prince asked my father father while walking in the palace

Hall he said to Heron this is unusual he usually calls for me only when necessary I wonder what's gotten into him today while walking the prince looked inside the palace garden and he saw martianus yeremia it was a memory from his mind he thinks in his mind it's already been more than 5 years since then and you're no longer here I wonder why I dreamt about such a long time ago he then walked near the big tree he saw someone standing behind the tree it was Arisha he looks at her and thinks in her mind

that's her daughter he wondered why is she here looking at her he thinks she looks just like her mother except for the silver hair it's almost annoying even her expression that doesn't seem to fit her age he walks close to her and Arisa notices him and she gets startled the prince asked you why have you come here again orisa startled by him was about to fall the prince thinks in his mind this again he said I've thought this before but you're quite disrespectful he told her do you dare to say that you don't know who

I am Arisa hesitantly spoke your highness he said H so you're going to answer me this time he asked so why are you here she said I I am here because his majesty requested my presence here the prince said my father did he thinks in his mind I see so that's what is going on no wonder I thought father was being unusual this was the reason he said sounds like this will be an uncomfortable meeting a cup of tea should suffice he thinks in his mind she's my fiance while having tea Arisa continuously trembles the

prince looking at her trembling thinks in his mind why is this child trembling so much looking at her he thinks like a rabbit thrown in front of a predator what did I ever do to her orisa suddenly dropped the cup and tea spilled on the prince's attire oh the prince grits his teeth and stands up Arisa panicking said your highness the prince turns to the other side and said I'll take my first then the prince starts walking Heron asked your highness are there any burns your clothes are the prince replied to Heron it's fine the

prince thinks while leaving how am I supposed to talk with someone like her she took everything that I couldn't have no matter how hard I tried and she doesn't even remember taking any of it after the prince left Arisha thinks to herself why can't I calm down I thought I already accepted this new life red just like blood perhaps I'm still not free from the pain of my past back at the Monique Manor orisa was sitting in the shade of a tree deep in her thoughts alenis said few good job orisha she said oh yes

you too the heat must have been exhausting for you alenis said H I think you're more exhausted than I am did something happen when you went to the Palace last time Arisha said no nothing nothing happened he said but you've been lost in your thoughts the whole day it's fine if you don't want to tell tell me orisha said to herself why can't you just pretend to not notice he continued still you can rely on me when you need someone when you're alone because for you I'm always willing to help alenis Smiles after saying that

looking at him Arisha thinks in her mind allendis thank you you're such a good friend really allendis said few anyway the weather is really hot I think I might faint from dehydration at this rate orisa said to him then why don't we take a break inside for a bit he said I'd be glad to thank you for the invitation while they were going inside the manor building someone called my lady it was sague he came and asked could you spare me a moment of your time alenis said I'll go ahead and wait inside orisa looking

towards him said yes all right after alenis went ahead Arisa asked sir League what is it sir league with a serious face sir League said please don't get too close to Sir alandis Arisha asked with a hint of Surpise what do you mean sir League said I am a bit suspicious of his reasons for training his sword skills here even if we are of the same faction he is from a house of officers and they have often disagreed with his Knights on many occasions political relations can be harsh if you let feelings muddle your judgment

you may get betrayed later on please be careful that's remembering alenis in her mind Arisa thinks what he said is right but but alenis is Ela came to where they were talking and said don't you mind sir leag either my lady who knows what kind of horrible training he'll make you do next time glaring at him Lena said because he's a cold-blooded merciless Knight while Lena and Sir League starts arguing Arisa left she thinks in her mind I do want to disagree but sir league is right and I have to be careful not to stand

out right now but in the study room allendis was browsing through books he notices Arisa and said you're back Arisa she replied yes while having tea all said ah the tea you brew is the best orisha said really I'm glad you like it orisha thinks in her mind while reading a book right allendis is a genius and his family has been ministers for Generations even if he's training now in the end he also will become while she was busy in her thoughts alenis asked what are you thinking about again orisa replied oh it's nothing by

the way allendis him she asked what do you want to be when you grow up he repli replied H well I haven't decided yet but I'll probably work as an administrative official learning the sword is quite fun but I find that using my mind is more interesting Arisha said I see while feeling sad she thinks in her mind I knew it we can only spend time together like this While We're Young once he grows up and begins attending social parties soon we'll grow apart in the end alenis asked Arisa are you disappointed because I don't

want to become a knight hiding her blushed face with book ARA said n no not at all alenis said you are aren't you am I right you're lonely aren't you orisha said don't tease me allendis she thinks in her mind sir League was right since when did I think about alandis so much I have to keep my distance from him the books suddenly fall Arisha said a look what happened because you keep saying strange things alenis said so it's my fault huh they starts picking up the Fallen books orisha picks a book and said we

had this kind of book looking at the book that Arisha was holding allena said oh I know this one it's about a lady and her kns oath right from old fairy tales a kns oath to a lady the Knight swears his loyalty to his Lord and NeverEnding love to his lady but it's a story only told in Old history now he asked eisa what do you think about this orisha said um well it all sounds like a dream she thinks in her mind an oath of never never ending love it has nothing to do with

me it's a story in a fairy tale while Arisa was thinking alenis looks at her smiling and said Arisa alenis leans towards Arisha and puts his hand on the wall facing Arisha alenis said Arisa while surprised by her reaction she said allendis he said Arisa you you're quite selfish aren't you she asked what alenis explained so you also want a knight who only looks up to you I didn't expect that she replied that's not true he told her number it's not a bad thing just don't you think an oath of eternal love is too difficult

and what if they can't be together even if they love each other he explained for example what if a knight falls in love with the same person his lord loves will the Knight break the oath if his Lord commands him to give up or will he break the loyalty to his Lord and choose love what if the other person already has a loved one is it really possible to keep an oath beautiful forever Heen asked what do you think you'd do if you were the lady will you be able to choose one she answered I

don't know something like that she thinks in her mind all of that has nothing to do with me now it's an old fairy tale that can't always be beautiful alenis then said let's not talk about this orisha thinks in her mind sometimes Alena stabs where it hurts the most without any warning while they were talking Allen just notice his chess board lying around he asked Arisha want to play chess she thinks in her mind I really should keep some distance from him they started playing chess while playing Arisa takes a sigh Alanis looking at her

asked you're upset because of what I just told you aren't you she thinks in her mind he's quick to notice she replied I just have a lot to think about she thinks in her mind huh wait this makes it seem like I really wanted a night she blushed while feeling embarrassed she then spoke um please don't misunderstand allendis I just thought that it was a pitiful fairy tale after saying that she thinks IR that sounded even more like an excuse alenis grins after hearing that he said all right I've decided Well if you wish to

be a lady I can't help but do this orizia asked D do what the curtains flutter because of air and he said I won't be able to become a real Knight but I can at least do this much for my precious friend after saying that alenis kneels in front of Arisa while shocked and Confused Arisha asked alen what are you allendis said while taking night oath I allendis de verita will promise to Arisa L Monique to Forever serve you as my lady he asked dear Arisha will you accept my oath surprised by his words Arisa

thinks in her mind w y is he suddenly why is he doing this what does he want from me looking at his extended hand Arisa thinks I shouldn't accept it I have to refuse I have to refuse her mind stops working feeling pressured she thinks I don't know what to do if you look at me with those expectant eyes I was just thinking that I needed to put some distance between us after few moments she takes a sigh and said I do alenis said while smiling I am honored Arisa he said wow now you're really

my lady she thinks in her mind while smiling right let's just leave him like that for now even if this will fade with time I hope to remember this pure feeling that's long been gone in myself through him a bit longer while holding her hand Alan said I met you for the first time last spring and now I finally feel like we've gotten closer though you haven't really grown much from that time orisha said well the same goes for you too allendis then said now that we're a night and lady we have to work hard

so we have four years until my coming of age and 5 years for you we still have a lot to go boys coming of age 18 girls coming of age 16 orisha remembered huh Coming of Age alenis said I hope you grow up soon my lady one year AG Ora's father hands her the sword and said Tia take this receiving the sword orisha thinks a sword her father told her I had it prepared since you'll need one as you learn how to wield a sword orisha said t thank you papa the night present there gets

shocked from this orisha left after receiving the sword and her father wondered does she not like it a knight called Commander do her father asked what is it all the knights looks at her father with worry while confused her father said if you have something to say speak up all of them were looking at him worried you gave her a sword for her birthday Duke Arin laughed loudly after saying that while laughing he said to your daughter who is only 10 years old even if my children loved fighting they would still ask for something other

than a sword for their birthday feeling ashamed her father said I didn't know as such so I couldn't help it she's been training a lot so I thought she would like a sword Duke Arin said because you've rarely spoken to your daughter for such a long time you can't blame anyone it's all your fault he said well don't be too upset you can start to know her more now who knows perhaps she might like it a bit secretly not just a little bit but a lot on her next birthday her fader gifts her a doll

and said Tia congratulations on your 11th birthday while confused she asked what her father asked isn't tomorrow your birthday it's your present or thinks in her mind birthday well it is my birthday but she reminisces the past and thinks I've lived to be 17 years old and now I have to play with a doll no even in my past life I've never really played with a doll looking at the doll she thinks I don't know how to respond she wondered what should I do with this her father said looks like you don't like it the

knights said that girls your age would like dolls H I guess I got it wrong again hearing his response Arisa L said no papa I really like it she happily said this is amazing I'm so happy thank you papa her father takes a sigh of relief and Pats her and he said I see that's great he asked Tia would you like to go outside with me she replied yes they went to the Royal Palace while walking inside the Royal Palace all the people there were staring at them Arisha thinks in her mind I can feel

people staring at me from behind she thinks while walking so he had to go go to the Palace Papa you took me to work not for a walk she was holding the doll her father gifted her she suddenly realized oh no I should have left this at home everyone must be staring at me because I'm holding something too childish her father looks at her and then he smiles dot she also smiles and thinks I guess it doesn't matter oh well Papa looks so happy someone came shouting Commander he said there you are we are in

need of your presence assistant of the second Squad k D Ras orisa looks at him and remembers the eldest son from house Ras dot her father asked what's wrong Cajun said there was an accident during training but it's gotten complicated I've done what I can for now but there is only so much I can do with my title do her father said I see I'll be right there he then said to Arista Tia go ahead and wait inside do you know the way to my office Arista replied yes take care walking with her father Cajun

said to him also there there was an announcement about an inspection today all right Arisha thinks in her mind while walking inside the palace he's busy as soon as he arrives here yet he still prepared a present for me she remembered huh wait he gave me a small sword around this time last year too was that also my birthday present in the Empire it's normal to not celebrate birthdays before becoming an adult yet he's ignored that custom twice now papa for me she hugs the doll and thinks in her mind I'll treat it more carefully

Papa prepared it just for me I'll keep it with me at all times while walking from the corner she thinks Lena would know what I could do with this I'll ask her as soon as I get back she suddenly bumped into someone at the corner and fell down while trying to stnad up she said I'm sorry it was the prince in whom she bumped Prince ruis Arisha thinks in her mind Prince ruis him again of all people Heron said you are before the Royal Prince pay your respects orist quickly stands up and said ah forgive

me she greets the prince greetings future son of the while she was saying her doll slipped form her hand oh no ah she thinks in her mind W what did I just do she apologized and said P please forgive me I've shown such disgrace while she was bowing her head she thinks in her mind he won't forgive me he must be mad because he's always been mad at me the prince doesn't say anything and keep being silent orista looks at him and thinks he's not mad then the prince asked where is Maris Karen he wasn't

inside orista replied th there was an accident during training so he went to check the prince said then I'll wait for him since I'm already here both of them sits inside a room and they doesn't speak to each other orisa wondered ha why did this happen I run into him whenever I visit the palace this prolonged silence is this is too much to handle she prayed in her mind Papa please hurry the prince suddenly remembered a child crying in his mind hick hick your highness the prince said you orisa thinks in her mind is he

going to get mad now the prince asked still like those kinds of dolls I see orisa asked pardon orisa wonders what did he just say still hm P orista asked the prince what do you mean they heard the sound of door opening her father and Duke Ruth came and inside the room her father said your highness you're here Duke Ruth said greetings your highness the prince said looks like you two are quite busy he said I'm here to oversee things under the emperor's commands Duke Ruth said then please come this way what would you like

to inspect first the prince said I'll start with the financial papers after the prince left Duke Ruth said H this is quite a rare sight ah he said a doll I didn't think the young lady in enjoyed those he told her you were always quite mature but now you look like your age Arisha thinks in her mind that's because of lived for 19 years now while remembering in his mind Duke Ruth said was it last spring when you suggested the luxury tax you were only 10 years old yet you came up with something like that

quite amazing really thanks to you we were able to prepare for the coming drought in advance orisa said that's good news I'm sure other people or the prince would have noticed even without me praising her Duke Ruth said my you're humble as well orisha said please I am merely she looks towards her father and all of them were staring at her she thinks in her mind why is he looking at me Duke Ruth said she's so brilliant at such a young age don't you agree she is a blessing for this Empire your highness the prince

smiles and said quite so he praised her saying I am happy to have such a brilliant fiance Duke Ruth said of course haha looking at his Arista remembers that smile that's his expression when he doesn't like something she wonders did they not notice there's even a chill in the air from his coldness her father looks towards Arisha who is worried and asked Tia what's wrong he quickly reached to her and said you look so pale Arista replied I'm all right her father then said to the prince your highness please I ask that you allow us

to leave I'm all right my daughter seems to be feeling quite sick these days the prince of loud and said as you wish her father then said now let's go Tia he picks Arisa and carry her with him ARA looks towards the prince as her father was carrying her and leaving she wonders why do you always look at me with such eyes with such hatred and resentment what did I ever do to you you were the one who tormented and neglected me I should be the one to resent you so why are you the one

showing such an expression after sometime in Winter Arista as practicing in the training ground hup hup Wham smack ha Wham while practicing she thinks in her mind faster I must get stronger I must become stronger in order to escape the Royal Palace before Jun appears in this world alenis was standing worried looking at him training while practicing she suddenly slipped and fell on the ground K alenis asked are you all right orista replied why yes this is nothing alenis said Arisa why are you so anxious you look like someone who's being chased that's she said

to herself of course I would look like that because I'm training like a mad person afraid of getting caught alenis said I see toy can't tell me while alenis removes dust from her clothes he said but Arisa it's no secret that you have worked hard you're a diligent person I'm sure you'll achieve what you aim for he said while smiling if you wish you can rely on me anytime orista looks towards him and said allendis she thinks in her mind you're so kind she then leans on alenis shoulder she remembered her past and tells in

her mind in the past nobody was kind to me and I also thought only of myself if I had opened my heart more back then would my life have been a bit different then new years's came around an opera to celebrate Emperor murkin's 25th year was performed the emperor said haha it's been a while since I've watched a play like this the emperor asked and how have you been these days orista replied I've been well thanks to your grace the emperor said good please enjoy the Opera he said the Maris has to watch this Opera

by himself though I'm the one who called you here to this seat Arisa looks at her father and said to herself father the emperor then said now that I think about it your family is quite small it's only you and your father the Marquis orista replied yes the emperor said who knew she would pass away at such a young age Such a Pity orisha looks towards the prince and wonders is he talking about my mother the prince looks towards Arisha and then turns his face orisa gets confused by his action then the emperor said it

would have been such a blessing if the martianus had lived longer he said it feels like it was only yesterday that I last saw her it's such a shame for everyone really Arisa said your majesty she thinks in her mind how should I answer at times like these I don't remember anything about my mother everyone and even father have avoided talking about my mother and I don't remember her so I don't even feel any longing remembering her past she thinks now that I think about it I talked about my mother with other people like this

before I came back in time what did I say back then how did I answer back then while she was thinking the emperor said by the way lady Arista I heard that you entered the palace looking quite lovely last time orisha asked pardon he told her you were holding a doll almost as big as you rumors have been circulating starting from the second Squadron while feeling embarrassed Arisha asked the second Squadron she thinks in her mind how did the emperor hear about such a thing then the emperor said I know everything that happens in this

Palace haha he added what a Pity I would have been delighted to see such a sight asterisk he looks towards the prince and said I heard you met the prince though Aisha thinks in her mind why now the emperor asked well Prince was she as lovely as they said in your eyes as well the prince replied with a smile yes she was father the emperor laughs and said haha is that so orisha gets surprised and shocked at the same time she looks towards the prince and thinks in her mind what what does he mean by

that what did he mean by saying that she remembers the prince from her past and thinks ah right I remember that occasionally I saw his expression like that before Jun appeared he was still indifferent to me yet although he seemed hostile at times back then he didn't despise me as much asterisk she wondered so when did things start to go wrong what about me did he hate so much on the verge of crying she thinks what for then she suddenly heard the voice then finally the future son to succeed the Holy Blood has been born

she came back to her senses and thinks a yes we are watching in Opera and to bless the future son God has sent a holy partner to accompany him she looks at at the emperor's partner and thinks what that's me to think that I would be in the play did his majesty invite me here knowing this asterisk the performer said and so the glory of the Empire continues and prospers in bountifulness May the child of Prophecy be blessed with prosperity suddenly the chandelier shakes and fell down on the venue the chandelier suddenly fell the prince

asked the emperor father are you hurt anywhere he replied H I'm fine he asked are you all right my son and Lady Arista Arista thinks in her mind oh no just about to link hands this yes this is It's like a sign saying the two should never be together is this an omen that the same past will be waiting for me again in the future or is this God ridiculing me for my feudal attempt to stray from my fate they people present there start talking to each other oh my did you just see that the

chandelier just when they were about to what blasphemy perhaps this is an omen about an ominous marriage the emperor and the prince also heard them talking the presenter came on stage and said your majesty your highness and dear honored guests even a fabulous chandelier can only shy away and lower its face in the presence of the Holy sun and moon so to the Royal majesty and the future sun and moon May there be Everlasting Prosperity the people present their starts clapping in Applause looking towards the emperor Arista thinks in her mind will they think the

same or do they feel it is ominous just as I do no what does it matter as long as he hates me as he did in the past the same thing will happen then there is only one future for me I must avoid the Fate that is tied with him at all costs after that while sleeping orisha Heard a Voice um who this voice Papa she heard them talking your majesty your highness you must wake up I have an urgent matter to attend to at the borders what why so suddenly her father said to her

while she was sleeping please wait for me I will come back soon to take you home orisa wonders Papa home what do you mean home this is our home Papa what are you talking about her father said so you must stay strong and stay well until then orisha thinks where where are you going without me she heard her father saying do you understand your highness the queen she flinched and said father she Rises up from her bed as an adult and called ah F father wait no don't go father please don't go without me Father

she opens her eyes and her hand was extended towards the ceiling father she Rises up from her bed and thinks a dream Lena came and opens the door she said my lady are you awake the Lord is she stopped in the middle after looking at Arisa she asked oh dear lady Arisa what's wrong you're so pale are you feeling ill orisha asked Lena what about my father Lena replied the Lord is speaking with Duke arant right now orisa wonders Duke arant what for at this early hour I have a bad feeling about this she went

to where her father and Duke Arin was looking towards Arisha the Duke said oh the young lady is here just in time orisha asked um did something happen her father suddenly stands up from his place and said Tia he stoked and doesn't say further orisha thinks in her mind Papa what's wrong what in the world happened her father said Tia looks like Papa has to go on an expedition to another land she thinks in her mind an expedition Papa the night Commander going on an expedition but why so suddenly the Duke said it's really Troublesome

do you remember the bad Harvest you mentioned before while taking a sigh he told looks like it's going to begin this year and on a bigger scale at that orisa asked a bad Harvest but but I heard the Empire Was preparing for that in advance the Duke replied of course that is the case but there are always those who refuse to listen Cajun added certain Lords have disobeyed their orders and have resorted to plundering as such the people of those lands are resisting and are starting to Riot a royal order has been issued to send

Knights to subdue the riots and oversee the relief work orisa thinks in her mind a riot so it happened in the end her father said due to the situation I will proceed together with the whole second Squad orisa asked all of them then she thinks in her mind that means I'll be here alone the Duke said I apologize for these circumstances lady Arisa I do wish I could go myself but the commander of the first Squad can't leave the city instead my son and some of the knights from the first Squad will be joining the

main unit we should hurry with the preparations when should we mobilize looking at them preparing to leave Arisa thinks in her mind is this what my dream was alluding to she thinks in her mind I might not see papa for months or even years and that's not all it's just like that night when he said he would come back for me while feeling worried she thinks what if he never comes back n no that won't happen she thinks they say negative thoughts bring bad luck the past and the present are different now papa will surely

return safely her father said to the Duke arant I expect you will take good care of my daughter while I'm away she's smart but she's still young I would be grateful if you occasionally visit to check on her the Duke replied that won't be a problem even Ruth will be going to oversee the relief operation so the capital will be quite empty that reflects the importance of this Mission her father asked then who will be going is the assistant Chancellor the Duke told him his majesty is supposed to appoint someone but I don't know who

it will be I assume it may be Ruth's eldest son he will then be able to teach him the way her father then said I wonder if that will be the case then the Duke said at any rate since my dear friends and son will be traveling so far away how about I hold a farewell banquet at the verita mansion that is her father replied you must have gotten their permission beforehand right after some time while walking Arisa thinks in her mind I feel like I'm by myself already Cajun said lady Arista while holding her

hand he said I heard you are learning how to wield a sword she replied oh yes I'm training to become more healthy as well he said you must be learning fast since the commander is guiding you she told him this is true but I've still got a long way to go Cajun said the Marquis and I will be leaving but my father and younger brother will be here to watch over you please do not worry orisha thinks in her mind a younger brother right the younger son of Duke Arin was a master of the sword

perhaps I can learn from him Arisha asked him what kind of person is your younger brother he replied carain then he doesn't speak for a m as he remembers something in his mind then he said he's not a bad person once you get to know him orisa said once I get to know him she remembers in her mind that I remember there were a lot of problems in house Rass due to their Heir H are they not on good terms perhaps I shouldn't have asked verita Mansion the servant said welcome Marquis Karen and Lady Arista

I will show you to the reception hall the maid shwed the way and said lady Arista this way please the Young Master is waiting for you orisha joyfully said I'll go see alandis walking behind the maid Arisha thinks in her mind I was starting to feel down but I'm glad I can meet with alenis when everyone leaves I'll be all alone in the mansion and then what will I need to do manage the mansion's daily Affairs complete my studies and she heard a bang and Clash sound while walking the eh had made asked the other

maid we have guests what is all this Ruckus about the maid said I was she said I I'm so sorry as she left after she left Arisha looks TOS from where the sound came and said that was the head maid said it's nothing you need to concern yourself with orisha said but the maid said with a serious tone you're here to see the young Master aren't you lady Arisa now he's waiting in this room please enter Arisa looks beside the door inside the room and wonders what's going on she called allendis I'm here she said

I heard a loud noise just now huh she stopped as she saw alenis looking serious in a moment alenis changed and with excitement he said Arisa come here my lady wow welcome I'm glad to see you Arisha said ah yes hello allendis she wondered was I mistaken just now she asked did something happen I heard a really loud noise coming from here alenis said oh the maid accidentally spilled some tea don't worry about about it orista it will be cleaned up soon in the meantime it's so nice to see you at my home like this

orista thinks in her mind oh it looks like it wasn't anything serious while showing her the way Alena said now letun go I'll show you the garden the air is cooler out there by the lake it will be more refreshing than staying inside orisha said oh right while going away Arista looks towards the cups and tea but everything was fine lying there in the garden while on the swing AR gets shocked and asked what you're leaving too allendis alandis said yes it just happened my father needs someone to assist him but as everyone knows my

older brother is frail that's why I'll be going instead orisha asked how can that be alenis then told her wek have to travel without a base camp for a while so I won't be able to write letters that often the air starts moving while feeling down Arisa said I see while on the swing she thinks in her mind father the knights and even allendis I know I can't have everyone by my side at all times but still this is too sudden while Arisa was busy in her thoughts allendis was standing hiding the bruise on his

hand he said it looks like she noticed I should have held back while a gust of wind suddenly blows from the front of her she asked him what did you say alenis gets close to Arisha and she said alen alenis kissed Arisa in her forehead and she blushed holding her hands alenis said I'll be back my lady you may be lonely but please bear with it for a while you have to take care of yourself and don't be too friendly with the other boys or I'll get jealous orisa said really you always say the strangest

things be careful and come home safely alenis said I have a lot to prepare so I need to return to the mansion first I'll see you when I come back while allendis was leaving Arisha watched him from behind and said to herself allendis be well please come back safely the next day asterisk her father said keep safe if anything happens send a message to Duke Arin for help orisha replied yes papa she gives her father a present and said Papa here her father asked this is she told him it's just to wish you luck on

a safe return I made it in a hurry last night she thinks in her mind I didn't have much time her father smiles and said thank you then here's my gift in return orisha said your LS Papa you shouldn't take these off her father said I have an extra pair so it's fine it's only right that I give something in return for such a precious gift while she squeezes the cufflinks her father gave her she said Papa looking at her father she thinks in her mind I should say something after this I won't be able

to see papa until next spring I have to say something the other nights came rushing to her and said lady Arista please accept ours too here's mine mine to here's more do you have anything for us please wish us luck as well while Amazed by everyone she thinks in her mind that's right I forgot about everyone else we weren't close before but now I've trained with them side by side every day yet I only made a gift for Papa her father then said to the knights we leaving the knights then said to her lady Arisha

make sure to eat well and be wary of any suspicious men she said I will please return safely everyone after bidding farewell to the Expedition I returned to the mansion where the days passed by peacefully it's a bit lonely but it's not as bad as I had thought except for my studies that is taking a sisa said I don't know what to do I've suddenly hit a wall Lena said you must be tired from studying while also managing the estate she sugested why don't we go outside for a breather Lena's in a ponytail Arisha asked

to where Lena said to town I was just about to leave to run some errands orisha said while thinking town perhaps I should go Lena said there's a new Boutique that opened up we can go order a new dress for you and have some delicious cake while we're out they went to the town standing inside a shop Lena said with a disappointed look we're finally outside and here you are looking at metal instead of dresses orisha said I'm just going to take a quick look around since I already have a sword and see what's here

Lena said while whining I can't believe that my delicate lady would grow up to shop for such hideous blades orisa then said well after this let's go to that cake shop you like Lena excitedly said really you're too kind my lady I'll go tell The Coachman after Lena left the shop a boy with red hair came inside the shop Arisha thinks in her mind gee Lena really doesn't like to wait the boy asked the shopkeeper Master how's my order coming along the shopkeeper replied welcome young sir already finished it and had it wrapped it's all

ready for you the bot said I can always count on you master the shopkeeper said it was going to be delivered tomorrow but you're here now the bot said how could you expect me to wait until then I can't contain my excitement bring it now hearing them talking Arisa thinks in her mind sounds just like Lena he's so loud and he looks like he'd be Hasty she wondered what kind of family would raise a son like that looking at a sort of Arisa thinks in her mind a silver guard it looks just like Papa sword

she extends her hand to reach the sword another hand came to the sword orisa looks towards the boy surprised the boy asked what are you looking at the boy asked do you like swords too Arisa replied ah yes she thinks in her mind how can he be this blunt during a first meeting the boy looks at Arisa from head to toe and asked H how long has it been while confused Arisa asked huh w what the boy said you're training how long has it been since you started training a year 2 years she replied about

a year and a half orisha thinks in her mind how did he know looking at other swords the boy said really then giving Arisa a sword the boy said this should be good she said with your figure the one before would have been too heavy for you to wield Arisha grabs the sword and thinks in her mind oh it's light it's similar to what papa gave me she T said thank you she thinks though I don't need it the boy then said H you're quite the odd one girls don't usually study this stuff right they

normally don't come anywhere near it swords Spears anything since their hands will start to look like that after a while orisa looks at her hand and thinks oh the calluses that's how he knew she said that's true but my father is a knight after hearing that the boy excitedly said really so is my family the boy told her my older brother and father are both Knights and I'll become one as well while showing off the boy said I will be accepted into the best Knighthood in the city to their first Squad well at my level

I'm sure I'll become the youngest knight ever orisha thinks in her mind the youngest Knight looking at the boy she observed hair is red as flame and blue eyes as clear as glass she wondered could he be she said carain duress while smiling the boy said huh what you've heard of me gee I guess it's hard being a genius since everyone recognizes you orisha thinks in her mind so it's him the youngest son of the RAS family and the genius swordsman of the Empire she thinks he's so arrogant he really has no manners I think

I understand what cirian meant then carain said all right if you ever get stuck during training come find me this genius will help you out orisa asked is that true sir carain he AR ly said of course I'm probably better than any Master if I help you oneon-one you'll get better in no time so you ah she suddenly said ah right I don't even know your name Arisha said oh my name is while Arisa was talking a servant came and bangs opened the Shop's door he shouted young master I knew you would be here I

knew it how many times do I have to beg you not to suddenly disappear carain shouted it's not like that I just came here for a second to get my sword the servant said then let's get back quickly you're done here aren't you orisha thinks in her mind even his servant is loud carain said GA all right I'm coming while he was going the shopkeeper said oh young Master you should take this with you ah after that while leaving carain Aid to Arisa smiling hey you make sure to visit me all right until then bye

they left with a bang sound arist said to herself he was like a storm after some time while training Arisa said to herself I knew it I'm stuck she think I'm training in this wide open space all by myself without anyone to guide me she see add The Emptiness left behind by those who leave feels deep she suddenly remembered carin's words make sure to visit me she thinks guess I'll go see him residence of Duke arant Duchess ernia said I've heard about you lady Arista she said said I heard the Marquis hoped we would help

you with your training Arisa replied yes that's right Duchess said well then we won't need to talk for long I see I've sent someone for my little boy he should be here soon Arisa thanked her saying thank you Duchess Aria looking at her Arisa thinks in her mind she's still the same I see she's always been cold toward me for some reason I could tell right away that she didn't like me carain came and said ah why do you keep calling for me can you please just forgive me scratching his head he said I've been

quiet the whole day his mother said take a seat we have a guest carain noticed Arisha and said oh huh it's you he said ooh you're the one from before good good I knew you would come while patting her he said look at that you're stuck right haha you need this genius don't you his mother from behind said carain she said looks like you you two have already met well then formally introduce yourselves lady Arisha carain asked what Arisa introduced her in a noble manner my name is Arisa Monique I've come today to request your

help it's an honor to meet you carain stands there Frozen orisha asked sir carain asked Monique right you have silver hair among the Nobles only those of house Monique have silver hair he asked with a serious expression so that means you're the future Empress right verita residence the day before the Expedition while playing chess Duke arant smirking said their Checkmate huh he said we even placed a wager why are you so distracted this isn't like you he then asked are you worried about your daughter taking a sigh he said well there's that the Duke asked

is there something else is it because of Ruth's younger son he's smart and it looks like he's also very astute I heard he proposed to your daughter as soon as he found out the engagement might be canceled while Marquis glares the Duke said aren't you lucky Karen you don't need to worry about your daughter's husband he then said trying to calm down the Marquis I was joking it was a joke you're being really scary right now he said if Ruth knew you hated it this much he'd be sad marquist said if he had the heart

to be sad about this I wouldn't be so worried Duke arken towards the Duke Ruth looking at Duke Ruth that he said I suppose that's true he looks towards the the Marquis and Marquis takes a sigh the Duke then said then how about this what if my younger son watched over her Marquis said you're younger you mean that child the Duke said yes yes I'm talking about that one well he's naive and a bit quick to anger while smiling the Duke said but he's just like me meaning he's nice and sociable to the present carain

angrily said what the you think I'm going to help a little run like you he shouted to his mother I don't want a mother why do I have to teach her his mother said sign watch your tone you're being rude in front of our guest she said looks like you need to learn your manners again he again protested but mother she's his mother interrupts him and said sign do you wish to disobey your father tisk orisa wondered why is he angry is he uncomfortable because I suddenly came to visit but he was happy to see

me just a few seconds ago what made him change his mind carain glares at Arisa and she thinks what she again wondered what is with this open hostility his mother said sign he then said ah fine he said to Arisha then shall we go dot dot lady Arisa Arisa asked pardon where to he said aren't you here to train with me then isn't it obvious that I need to know how good you are first he heard her mother saying carain heop panicked kingly said I'm being nice he the calmly asked you're coming right Arista replied

ah yes gosh Arista thinks in her mind perhaps I shouldn't have come in the training ground carain said to Arista took you long enough to get changed I don't have all day you know orisa said I'm sorry for the delay sir he then asked so your father told you to train with me she replied ah yes he said ha what a joke shaking his head he told you think learning how to wield a sword is easy why don't you just swing it around for a couple of minutes for fun feeling annoyed by him Arisa said

but aren't you the one who said to come visit if I need help he said that was before I knew you were the daughter of house Monique now that I know don't expect me to be nice to you orisa asked what do you mean he replied I meant exactly as I said holding the wooden sword Arisa wondered what is this he won't even tell me the reason she said sir I'm not trying to learn how to use the sword as a simple Pastime he said hmph it's clear why a girl from a noble house would

want to learn I can't stand those who try to show off by doing something different orisa thinks in her mind why did his attitude change he should have known I was from a noble family from the beginning he was the one who approached me so easily before yet this is his true personality she told him I'm not training for that kind of Reason carain said enough excuses if that's the truth then you need to prove to me how serious you are orisa replied fair enough she asked how should I prove it he said let's see

how good you are at the basics gritting her teeth Arisha said all right after that he asked Arisha to swing the sword continuously ha ha he watched Arisa while she swings her sword he then said enough while taking quick breaths sisha asked how was I carain replied with a clear look I think you're I Arisa furiously thinks in her mind seriously this boy he remarked your basic skills are passible but the rest you're a total mess and you want to call yourself a swordsman are you out of your mind feeling enraged by his comment he

thinks in her mind I have to endure I'm the one who's asking for help here she then said it's as you just saw since there's nobody to guide me I've been training by myself but I haven't made any progress he said with obvious reaction well that's obvious you won't get anywhere with that floppy posture of yours feeling annoyed Arisa thinks in her mind floppy Arisha asked him then what should I do he shouted why should I care why do I even have to help you with your training he told her figure it out yourself and

don't bother me orisa said dob you should also understand how helpless one feels when they've reached a wall and nothing seems to work he arrogantly replied nope never felt that way I'm that good I mean I've always been Above the Rest you know orisa thinks in her mind what what's his problem he's so arrogant and he made me have such high hopes Arisa grits her teeth and then suddenly turns to the opposite side carain said ha as expected if you're giving up this early that means you were never serious about your training in the first

place orisa said I do not wish to converse with someone who can't keep their promise he replied right right just quit already he told her you lack both the strength and stamina to learn anyway why don't you do something about that feeble body of yours before holding a sword after that Arisha starts walking and carain thinks to hisself so she's really leaving while leaving Arisha said to herself right I see strength and stamina that has to come first just you wait I'm not giving up like this back to the Monique household Arisha called Allan Lena

the servant said welcome back lady Arista she told them starting today have all my meals follow a strictly nutritional diet I'm going to train even harder from now on Alan asked even harder she then said to Lena and Lena can you make sandbags that would fit around my legs and arms I need them for strength training both of them get shocked and asked strength training Lena replied yes I'll get them ready right away my lady as Arisa was leaving they wondered what's going on strength training and a nutritional diet while talking to other servants Lena

said it's obvious something must have happened at the RAS residence our lady is not someone who starts fights with others the other maid said oh right I heard that sir carain is quite rude he wouldn't get along with our young master who is always so polite that must be why she's angry Allan said but she's always been delicate I'm not sure about this sudden increase in training I wonder if she'll be all right meanwhile Arisa thinks in her mind I know what my weaknesses are so I'll just work harder from now on remembering carain in

her mind she thinks you'll see I'll make you regret those words the next day she tells I said my sights on strength training I exercised to increase my stamina then continued with basic sword training I ran and ran until my heart felt like it would burst while training Lena asked Lady Arisa are you all right she tells my life became a mix of training until my arms went numb and then coll csing and falling asleep without eating dinner I already knew this method wouldn't fix my problems but I couldn't stop because I was running out

of time at verita Manor carain was sitting inside the garden thinking and wondering he then heard a servant saying welcome we've been waiting for you he quickly runs to the carriage that arrived the servant said young Master carain asked who was that the servant asked pardon he asked who just arrived the servant replied that was the design Des ER for the lady's new dress the servant then asked are you waiting for someone no feeling disappointed and leaving he said it's nothing he thinks in his mind it's been a few days now but I haven't heard

from her was I too harsh I was surprised since she was from house Monique but I was the one who offered to help her first no why do I have to worry about her I mean she's married to that high and mighty Prince she's not his wife just yet since they're only engaged she's got nothing to do with me anyway he suddenly remembered Arisa in his mind asking you'll really help me he thinks I wonder if she's still training with that weak body geez whatever meanwhile at the Monique household orisa was training continuously Lena looking

worried said lady Arisha please please stop you've been training since this morning you'll get sick if you continue Arisha said just a little more she thinks in her mind this is the only way this is the only way I can avoid getting involved with the royal family but if this doesn't work she then suddenly Heard a Voice saying are you out of your mind carain said with loud voice stop that right now while surprised Arisha asked sir carain he said I just stopped by the check but is this what you call training orisa asked aren't

you the one who said I need to improve my strength he shouted I never said you should do it like this he grabbed her training sword and said do you want to destroy your body to the point that you'll never be able to hold a sword again let go orisha asked why do you care while shocked by her question he asked what orisa said with a serious face I thought you didn't want to involve yourself in my business in any case please don't interfere and just leave carain asked hey are you trying to put on

a show because I said that she said if you're not going to help then don't get involved walking PW by him she said if you'll excuse me I'm busy carain abruptly said hey now hold on suddenly Arisha felt dizzy and she passes out carain while shocked said hey K Lena said lady Arisha carain holding her asked wait what's wrong darn she's burning up hey wake up hey carain picks her up and said t Lina I'll carry her inside call the doctor hurry after sometime in bed Arisha opens her eyes she heard Lena saying DOA while

crying Lena said lady Arisha are you awake orisa opens her eyes and said Lena Lena asked would you like some water I'll help you sit up orisha thinks in her mind in the end I collapsed just like I did in the past after becoming 10 again I worked hard to get healthier but I haven't changed at all she then falls on her bed again and closed her eyes she thinks in her mind what should I do what should I do if this doesn't work there's not much time left after few moments feeling awkward carain asked

um hey how are you feeling Arista replied I'm feeling better thank you sir carain she said you carried me inside when I collapsed correct he said uh yes well feeling blushed he said it's not a big deal orisha smiles and thinks in her mind even though he was so mean before carain then said hey I'll give you my honest opinion you need to stop this type of training at this rate you won't even be able to hold a spoon let alone a sword using sandbags when you're so young will only wear down your joints looking

disappointed she thinks in her mind I know that that must be the reason why my father didn't train me separately because of this weak body and that's why allendis is far better than me now even though we started together carain said do you know if you're that weak why are you trying to learn sword fighting there are other things you can do without overexerting yourself like gardening or painting she asked well I want to know why you rejected me last last time he answered because you're the prince's fiance right the future Empress orisha said so

she thinks in her mind but I won't be carain said I thought you would quit training after getting married he said when you become the empress you won't need to use a sword the Royal Guards will always protect you I don't want to deal with someone who will learn only as a hobby I've seen plenty of people begin out of curiosity only to quit right after she thinks in her mind I see see he doesn't want to see others take lightly what he has dedicated his life to but he continued anyway you get it now

right that's how it is you should stop orisa interrupts him and said I Won't Give Up carain said right don't give up huh surprised by her reply he said have you not been listening you'll ruin your joints if this is a hobby you can bring in a tutor to she s a DM no I won't quit no I can't quit she told him no matter how difficult even if I'm at a disadvantage because of my body I will continue to hold a sword even if I die like this no matter what looking at her carain

thinks in his mind do why are you trying so hard she said I will become a knight meanwhile at the Royal Palace Heron said while closing the door your highness I brought more papers for today the Lords on the outskirts are complaining non-stop the prince was looking outside the window Heron asked your highness what is it it the prince said look there Heron Heron looks outside through the window he said those clothes they're from the Lisa Kingdom looks like an Envoy has arrived then the prince said an Envoy it's such a busy time Heron said

well the whole continent is in trouble because of the drought the climate in the Lisa kingdom is cold and dry and since it's in the north they must have been hit hard they're probably here to ask for more support and supplies the prince said I hope that's the case look looking at them he thinks in his mind but they're bringing in more than necessary for something like that what is their goal it start raining outside while it's raining Arisha said I will become a knight while surprised caran asked what a knight he said but you're

the prince's fiance thinking hard he said I'm sorry but I don't get it he said so you're going to become the empress and be a knight as well huh is that possible orisa said to him I won't become the empress I will follow in the foot steps of my family orisa tells I will continue my family name yes that is the reason that's the reason why I've been training while also taking lessons is the heir of the family I won't repeat that cruel fate I won't be directed by my past instead I will create a

new path for myself I will become a knight and inherit our Noble title I will be Maris aristela Monique remembering the prince she said this is the only way for me to Escape the Fate that is bound to him she said but I'm not getting stronger and I don't know how I can improve with just basic training she shouted with frustration I have no choice but to feel anxious carain said I see oh scratching his head Caren said you could have told me earlier I thought you were just swinging a sword to show off regretting

what she said Arisha thinks in her mind oh no what have I done I've never told this to anyone yet I blurted out something so important to a person I'm not even close to I let my guard down she asked are you satisfied you should go now shocked carain said huh wait but Arisha said you have no right or Reason to involve yourself in my business I'm sorry for disturbing you these past few days but that won't happen again carian shouted what why are you saying it like that I came because I was worried about

orisa interrupts him and said one more thing just because one excels in a certain area doesn't mean their flaws can be ignored if you care about the reputation of your family and your own you better learn how to act like a noble while shocked and feeling annoyed and angry carain said hey orisa said now then farewell sir hey hey hey hey leaving the Mansion carain said with anger ah how can she treat me like this fine do it your way see if I come here again he then stops and looks towards the mansion in arisa's

room Lena asked my lady will this be all right she replied I'm tired remembering alen as she thinks in her mind alenis told me that it's no secret I've worked hard and I wanted to believe him but I ended up working myself too much and collapsed all I've done is make everyone worry about me you're pathetic orisa a few days later Lena asked how do you feel today my lady would you like some soup Arisa replied I'm feeling much better and yes I'll have some while Arisa was having soup Lena said um my lady orisha

asked yes holding the letter Lena said a letter arrived for you and it's from the Royal Palace orisha thinks the Royal seal it's from the emperor after reading the letter she thicks it simply says I should visit the palace for an audience with the emperor she wonders is that it what's going on the business would usually be written what is so important that it couldn't be mentioned by letter what could it be she then said Lena I'll need to get ready to visit the palace Lena freaked out and said my lady you're going there in

that state orisha said I can't ignore a royal order orisa thinks in her mind it's probably useless to ask right to postpone the deadline of our promise at the Royal Palace the announcer said lady Arisa Monique daughter of Maris Karen has arrived while walking the other people looks at her and talks to each other dot dot that girl is the daughter of house Monique the woman from the prophecy they whispered she's still too young it'll be some time before she becomes the empress then we Arisa gets confused by them in front of the emperor Arisa

said while bowing greetings your majesty son of the Empire it is I Arisha L Monique here at your service the emperor said ah welcome lady Arisa he said I was curious about something so I requested your presence it's nothing serious I was wondering about your guard these days who are the knights who are staying at your home after hearing that she thinks in her mind my guard a guard at at the Mansion of a marquis what is he talking about she answered there is none the emperor said I knew it that won't do the Maris

is too stubborn at times really he should have left at least one or two nights it's nonsense to have you stay at the residence without a guardian orisha thinks in her mind so this was the reason the emperor said a royal guard will be prepared for you starting today she thinks in her mind what is he talking about a royal guard she said while surprised your majesty please that is unnecessary it's too much for someone like me the emperor said too much you are the future Empress she said while feeling panicked however the royal guard

are Knights who protect the royal family I am just she thinks in her mind I'm trying to escape from the royal family a royal guard would only become a shackle the emperor said I know what you are worried about he said how about this then while showing the ring on his hand the emperor said I promise that I won't use this against your wishes in the future he asked do you still disagree she replied no your majesty I am honored by your grace she thinks in her mind why why is he going this far I

feel burdened the emperor said by the way huh you look pale perhaps you're orisha starts feeling dizzy huh I feel dizzy ah she heard Emperor saying if I had known then I will hurry while feeling dizzy she thinks oh no my fever must be getting worse I can't collapse here I must stay awake she then suddenly heard the Royal Prince has arrived the prince came and asked you called for me Father a while ago Heron said your highness shouldn't you take a short break at least the prince said there's a mountain of paperwork I need

to get through how can I rest worried Heron said but you've been working too hard lately I'm worried you're going to overdo it the prince said the whole continent is in trouble this year the chancellor is away due to relief operations and the borders are unsecured the people are afraid at a time like this I can't stand idly by and leave all the work to the officers furthermore my father trusted me with this task I won't allow for any mistakes seeing the prince determined Heron agreed as you wish the prince then went to the audience

room with the emperor the announcer said the Royal the prince stops him by raising his hand then the prince tidy himself up before entering he heard a laughing voice from the room he thinks in his mind someone's talking he had lady Arista you look a bit pale are you not feeling well I'm a little under the weather your majesty please forgive me for visiting you in such a state after hearing that he concludes that it's Arisha she's here he heard the emperor saying my apologies if I had known you weren't well I would have ask

to see you at a later date I will send a royal doctor to check on you this is a royal order so not consider refusing orisa said I am grateful for your concern the emperor said I hope to see you well soon then he laughs the prince said to the announcer continue he said yes your highness he announced the prince enters the room and both Arista and the prince looks at each other the prince said you called for me Father the emperor said yes welcome my son H I was planning for us to have tea

with the young lady here but she's not feeling well orisa said please do not worry about me and the emperor said no I do not wish to burden a sick person so he added Ah that's right my son why don't you escort her I'll have them prepare the tea upon your return while getting shocked Arisa quickly said th that's not necessary your majesty I'm quite fine the prince replied I understand father while feeling down Arisa said I shall take my leave then your majesty then the emperor said feel better soon lady Arista walking down the

stairs behind the prince Arisa thinks in her mind this is safo cading I feel even worse while feeling tired she tries to hold herself firm hold on just a bit more I just have to get through this place stay strong don't show him anything the prince takes a glance at her and then ignores her after that Arisha said thank you for escorting me here your highness I think I can leave on my own now then the prince called Sir Lank he came and replied yes your highness the prince said bring a carriage as quickly as

possible we will be traveling to the Monique residence orisa gets surprised by his words and wonders why is he I thought he hated the sight of me while riding the carriage with the prince Arisha thinks in her mind oh right the emperor didn't specify until where I was to be escorted he must be taking me home just to be safe the prince looks at Arisha and thinks in his mind she looks like she could faint at any moment it's amazing that she arrived for an audience and still kept her decorum while in such a state

if she's 5 years younger than me then she must be 12 this year she's young and yet so determined he said to himself you're loved by my father if you asked he would have gladly let you rest he said with a low voice how silly you and I as well orisa asked pardon the prince doesn't say anything at the Monique residence the prince said farewell well then take care orisha said thank you your highness take after the carriage left orisha wondered why did I feel so empty just a minute ago I wanted so badly to

escape she suddenly remembered the prince words how silly she thinks in her mind perhaps perhaps he escorted me here because he was worried about me she then quickly remembers and thinks what am I thinking something like that could never happen he hates me seriously how could I think of something like that I wasn't as scared of him today as I usually am but that's because I was feeling unwell I didn't have the energy to feel cautious that must be it meanwhile riding the carriage back to the Palace the prince remembers Arista in his mind and

said I hope you feel better soon lady Arista after sometime a knight said starting today we will be your personal guard they introduced themselves my name is Seymour from the royal guard and I'm June it's a pleasure to meet you Arisha said ah yes thank you I'll be in your care she thinks in her mind he really sent a royal guard two even the royal guard said from now on we will be guarding you 24 hours a day orisha asked all 24 hours at morning you must be especially cautious in the morning as it's easy

to put your guard down at noon someone may try to breach the garden we will always be by your side at night it's especially dangerous when everyone is asleep we will guard your door walking in the Garden Arisa thinks in her mind this is a bit stifling I've never had anyone following me around like this before when I was an empress in the past I never received this much protection yet now that I'm not even a royal I'm being guarded fate is quite cruel she thinks I wonder why the emperor ordered this he even summoned

me to the palace for confirmation the government should be busy taking care of the lands there's no time for political stries who would try to harm me at a time like this Lena came shouting in excitedly said it's a letter the one you've been waiting for it's from Sir Al l n d i s you have two letters orisa quickly grabs the letter and opens it a green letter from allendis the letter was as it is to my lady whom I so greatly Miss I'm sorry I couldn't contact you sooner we've been constantly on the

move but we have finally arrived at a vast territory we're sending soldiers to nearby towns to distribute food and supplies we were expecting the worst but it wasn't as bad as we thought we've prepared well so things will look better after this winter though we'll need to continue our relief efforts every year are you doing well I'm worried that you're alone I'm sorry I can't be with you you may appear strong but I know you're very kind and can feel lonely easily though you won't admit it don't overwork yourself and stay well I'll send you

another letter soon from your knight allendis after reading the letter Arisha thinks in her mind allendis you're always so kind I can feel your warmth through this letter seeing the second letter she asked then who sent this other one dot dot h it said to my daughter Tia currently I'm in the South she gets happy realizing that it's from her father Papa it's from Papa is he well I wasn't expecting a letter from him the letter was I'm sorry for waiting so long to contact you I'm sure you must be working hard while you're home

alone how is your training I'm worried since you've been quite anxious lately she thinks in her mind Papa knew the letter continued in case you are let me continue my daughter Tia you don't need to be in such a rush I am always ready to help you for whatever you want I will do everything I can to make your wish come true you're doing plenty well even now believe in yourself and try to relax feeling joy and guilt at the same time Arisha thinks in her mind Papa I'm such a fool Papa has been supporting

me all this time yet I didn't accept and tried to do things all on on my own she then said to herself Papa allendis I miss you after a while Arisa asked sir Seymour do you have a moment he replied yes while surprised he said that attire orisa asked him would you help me for a bit I thought it might be better for you to do other things instead of just guarding me all day she asked I would like you to teach me about sword fighting she thinks in her mind right I shouldn't be anxious

anymore I'll start over as if I'm beginning a new slowly one step at a time that is how I can repay the kind wishes of everyone who believes in me allendis was looking outside through the window his father came and asked are you still awake we have to go on patrol again early in the morning he replied while shuffling the papers I'll ensure that this doesn't affect our work you don't need to check up on me like this the Duke then said looks like you're still holding a grudge Alexis isn't well so of course you'll

have to come as his younger brother and it was by the emperor order that you are here you should obey he told this is something you've brought upon yourself she is still the prince's future fiance yet you've wandered near her since this reached even to the ears of the emperor of course you would be sent here alenis said I'll admit I've gone too far but even as you say so aren't you thinking the same as me though I suppose I'm not the one you're hoping for the Duke said with a serious tone don't say something

you're not sure of allendis he aggressively said your words may end up ruining our family and marking us as traitors while leaving he said stop thinking about useless things and go to sleep after the Duke left alenis holds a paper and said up until this point I've worked so hard I'm not going to give up so easily at Monique residence Seymour said be aware of your posture lady Arisa while getting guide from Seymour Arisa thinks in her mind as requested sir Seymour guided my training he only taught me the basics but that was all I

needed to overcome the wall that was blocking me Seymour said that's all for today you did well orisa replied thank you sir Seymour he said you're improving every day I don't have to do much the talent of house Monique is surely amazing while smiling Arisa thinks in her mind but I didn't overcome these obstacles Through My Own Strength alone Seymour said I'm your guard orisa said you can still join me for tea while having tea Arisa looks at Seymour and thinks it's great that he came here SE suddenly gets more attentive while confused by his

behavior Arisa asked sir Seymour what's wrong he told someone is approaching Arisa said what but this Garden is within the Mansion Seymour said stand back lady Arisa they heard someone coming behind the bushes Seymour asked who goes there show yourself carain come forwards from behind the bushes and said a royal guard why is an imperial Royal Guard here orisa thinks in her mind that voice she said oh it's you Seymour shouted do not come any closer if you have some business with Lady Arisa you must tell me first orisa stopped him and said sir Seymour

it's all right heun's an acquaintance would you excuse us for a moment Seymour replied yes understood while Seymour stares at carain while going away carain asked what's with him Arisa told he's my personal guard carain said while feeling annoyed by Seymour's gaze I can tell that much by looking at him orisha said it's been a while sir carain he replied ah yeah it has Arisa then asked what brings you here I thought you weren't going to see me again s thinks in his mind she's right I don't know why I came here again looking at

Arisa he thinks but at least she looks better now she asked was there something you needed to tell me unable to answer he said hey you no matter how much I there's no way I can let something like that pass while surprised by his words Arisa asked excuse me carain said last time you told me that I should learn manners befitting one of a noble house but you're the one who showed a lack of proper manners by chasing out a guest even if our houses are of the same Alliance your attitude and choice of words

that day would be enough to cause a feud between us so do you have anything to say for yourself orisa wonders he came here just to say that she admittedly said indeed you are correct while apologizing she said yes I was rude that day I sincerely apologize your grace carain shocked by her said huh what why are you apologizing so easily I thought you'd get mad orisha asked do you consider apologizing to be a dishonorable act he told her yes having to lower yourself in front of another person orisha asked and what about it not

apologizing even when you're in the wrong not thanking even though you've received someone's Grace isn't that what you should consider dishonorable and without manners avoiding to answer he said th that's Arisa asked and are you aware she said your informal Behavior towards me is enough to start a feud between our houses getting shocked by her words carain said oh well that was I'm sore I mean please forgive me your Grace orisa said I accept your apology then she asked now what business brought you here today felling pressured by her carain said well I was supposed

to help you no lady Aris she asked uh did you come all this way to teach me about honor he said no I I mean his mind doesn't work and he couldn't say anything to explain he thinks in his mind huh why did I come here darn it this wasn't the plan he then said ah whatever this is who I am what am I supposed to do I'll just be informal if you have a problem then submit an official objection she said all right I'll send my complaint to Duke arant is that all right he

asked uh you're really going to do that he said fine go ahead and do it it's not like it'll kill me he then curiously asked so are you really going to tell him after that Arisha tries to control herself but she start giggling and laughing carain thinks I heard something orisha starts laughing ahahaha haha he also stats chuckling he said oh so you do know how to laugh it suits you after hearing that Arisha calms herself he thinks looking at her oh she went back scratching his head he said so since we apologize to each

other we're even now right orisa asked what do you mean he then said I mean you can start visiting my place again orisa said I don't need to visit you anymore while surprised he asked what why are you still mad she said that's not why sir Seymour over there is a very good inst instructor she thinks PFF look at him he said huh that night oh yeah looking at Seymour he said I've been wondering why is a royal guard here he asked you're not a royal right she told I'm still expected to be a part

of the royal family he asked what she said anyway you should have some tea while you're here Lena please bring some more teacups Lena replied yes my lady while drinking tea Arisa thinks in her mind I can tell what is thinking I said I wouldn't marry into the royal family yet I'm being guarded by their power he must think it's odd while carain was processing everything and thinking she thinks I hope he doesn't say anything careless in front of the knights carain then said well that's fine I have my father's orders so I'm not going

to sit back and watch slamming his hands he said let's do it this way then you can continue training with the Knight and I'll just come visit you while surprised arist asked pardon feeling excited he said right right that will be good and I can see how strong a royal Knight is too orisha asked you're going to visit me he continued and it'll be nice if I can learn a thing or two as well train to figure out orisha said hold on sir carain you can't just decide to carain said it's fine going back and

forth is fine with me orisha thinks in her mind I'm not fine looking at them talking Seymour thinks what are they talking about carain then said then that's the plan letun get along all right looking at his fiery personality Arisa thinks in her mind he's so pushy then carain jumps and said since it's decided let's start our training now and just like that the second day of training began carain exclaimed wow as expected of a royal guard that level of skill in those moves he observed right Parry with the flat of the blade and then

he said I knew it was a good idea to come here still you're not as good as our first Squad orisha said here have some tea sir carain carain replied oh thank you I was feeling a bit thirsty he picks up the cup and instantly takes a sip saying perfect while carain takes a sip orisa tries to stop him saying oh but it's hot he took a sip sour he exclaimed in surprise he asked confused sour it's too sour what is this Arisa wondered why bewildered huh did I not brew it long enough carain muttered

sour things are the worst Adisa then said I see you don't like the flavor I'll get you a different tea Lena she calls out Lena carain said I like the color but the flavor is strange and it feels weird on the tongue carain speculated maybe it's spoiled wait looking at aishah who can drink it easily he stops orisha explained it's supposed to taste like this it's hibiscus carain asked while shocked seriously and The Taste doesn't bother you Arisa told Yes actually I quite like this flavor carain blurted out is something wrong with your taste buds

I knew it from the beginning but you have some really weird tastes feeling annoyed by his remark she thinks why do I have to listen to all this just because of one cup of tea she quickly snatches the cup from carain and said then don't drink it she sarcastically said I apologize for my strange preferences in tea but it looks like your sophisticated pallet wouldn't be satisfied even if I offered another carain protested trying to stop her huh huh hey hmph Arisa sits at her chair with a foul mood carain asked looking for support gosh

I didn't say anything wrong I only said it was Sour because it was Sour don't you think so too sir Seymour sir Seymour replied haha well I'm fine with any flavor of tea it's just an honor to drink tea brewed by lady herself I heard that it's a hobby of hers while oblivious carain asked what sir Seymour replied the lady bruised the tea herself feeling remorse carain went close to Arisha and said uh hey she asked what is it noticing sir car's change in demeanor Arisha asked I thought you didn't like the tea I chose

carain replied come on that doesn't mean you have to take it away from me it's just because that was my first time he picks up the cup and said I can drink it hah haa I can I can carain insisted though he still found it sour uh but it's still so sour looking at him Tri Arisa takes a sigh and said I'm not trying to force you to drink it don't push yourself I'll prepare a different te for she points towards Lena to call her carain said no it's fine really it's okay the genius Knight

carain will not run away from a simple cup of tea he declared dramatically Arisa prepared another cup before him and afed him she said here how about this carain looks surprised then he takes a sip huh sip sip sip slurp he tasted the new tea he said this is surprisingly good orisa smiled and said right Arisha then tells in her mind sir carain is quite the character he shows his honest emotions and thoughts so openly and it makes me do things that I would never do and before to that was the first time I had

laughed out loud while holding my stomach this isn't that bad though my peaceful days are getting very Rowdy meanwhile in the Royal Palace the prince asked what are you talking about the envoy said well you see your highness you're already an outstanding figure there are those who admire you even at our Palace in Lisa Kingdom we met lady Arisha in passing a while ago but she seems too young to Aid you with your duties while explaining they said I mean she's the lady of Prophecy of course she has an Elegance befitting the future Empress of

this great Empire yes we could only lower our gaze in her presence the prince asked coldly so then what does my fiance being young have to do with your kingdom one of them explained further she may feel pressured by her duties as the future Empress that means of course she will need someone to help her as the empress your highness the Royal princesses from our kingdom are continually learning the ways to better Aid the Empire and the Imperial family we do wish you would consider the Prince asked catching on so you mean as a queen

the envoy said that is the case simply put please do understand that we are simply worried and wish the future of the Imperial family to be secure then the prince coldly said is that so the Loyalty The Lisa Kingdom has shown to the Empire is quite amazing my father is still healthy yet you've come to me still a child for an audience to give advice about the future Children of the Imperial family the prince sarcastically said I highly admire that bravery of yours so much so that I wish to show the other council members of

the Empire the extent of such bravery they trembled in fear and went pale they hurriedly replied I will be sure to remember our meeting we are honored your highness Heron then said I suppose sending more envoys was part of their plan along with all those tributes the prince said my father wouldn't listen so they set their sights on me hmph all for the position of Queen he explained just like the empress only one one can hold the title she is to Aid the empress and can stand in for her in times of need she's still

young so if the queen gives birth to a son first he would be the next Heir that's their plan he speculated they want one of their princesses to wear the crown as Queen Haron said maybe there really is a princess who admires you your highness the prince replied nonsense remembering Arisa the prince thinks it's true she's still young she doesn't even know how to ask to be excused when she's sick then he suddenly said house Monique Heron replied yes then the prince doesn't say anything further and excused it's nothing our thought to himself right a

royal doctor should have visited her by now she should be feeling better my concern is unnecessary in the Monique residence orisa was eating the letter to my lady whom I so greatly Miss much time has passed are you doing well when I awoke this morning the whole world was glimmering with white snow when I saw it I thought of you I know that it's your favorite something white like snow that's both sweet and warm do you remember what happened last winter back then sir X and Sir Moore started a snowball fight but sir Le got

H and joined not too long after it turned into a huge battle a scene started playing in her mind as she read the letter the knights were having a snowball fight a snowball hit Arisa in her face alenis shouted in worry no my lady orista the letter continued in the end you got hit by a snowball and it turned into a huge mess you ended up getting a bad cold did you know I was so scared to be in training that day his grace was merciless I was sure someone would die yet despite that you're

probably laughing while reading this orista smiles and said well that's true so Arisa when you need to go outside make sure to dress warmly don't overwork yourself while training alone in the snow in Spring a special gift will arrive just for you wait for it my lady it's white warm and sweet just the way you like it after reading the letter Arisha said to herself G allendis he must be busy yet he's thinking of these things don't tell me he's going to make white chocolate from all the way over there she thinks a gift ah

she calls out Lena and said bring me my craft box going up the stairs Lena asked what will you need it for while smiling she replied I'll make bookmarks oh and bring me the leftover silver tassels from last year as well carain who was also present asked hey you're quite Lively today aren't you Arisa said good morning sir carain sitting near Arisha he asked what are you making Arisa replied bookmarks and sword tassels carain asked who are they for she explained for the Knights of the second Squad and my precious friend who is far away

they left so suddenly so I couldn't give them anything I'll make these while wishing for their safe return carain while thoughtful said him a precious friend he asked what about mine what will you make for me she replied with a question why do I need to make something for you while shocked he asked why not we train together every day she asked so we're not close enough to exchange gifts don't you think he gets baffled in shock for a moment and unable to reply not close enough he then yelled I'm going to head out first

orishen said oh okay I'll get ready right after cleaning this up Sir June please call Sir Seymour looking at T leaving in Anger Arisa wonders does he want a bookmark after some time going outside to train Arisha said sorry for being late letun start training she looks at the training ground but nobody's here she wonders did they go somewhere she thought to herself I guess I should start with running while running she thinks the weather is so nice it feels so refreshing something good might happen while she was running someone was standing behind the bushes

looking at her orisha gets an intuition and looks towards that place huh she stops and looks towards that and thinks I thought someone was there she starts running again and thinks was I mistaken or someone quickly gets out from the bushes and Arisa thinks to herself I knew it it must be sir carain someone grabs her from behind and Arisa gets startles and said wait hold on why are you suddenly someone called orisa orista gets shocked by The Familiar voice alenis said I caught you my dear lady she thought to herself just like the Petals

of spring a voice I had missed so dearly carefully touched my ear while quckly turning she thinks could it be Al allendis alenis said it's been a while orisa she hugs him and said I missed you alenis while hugging her he smiles and said me too I really missed you my dear lady ah I feel like I'm truly alive why while hugging him Arisha thinks as always his Embrace felt so comfortable suddenly carain came and while shocked he interrupts the moment saying what the hell am I looking at he quickly grabbed Arisa and pulled her

away from allendis hey get away from him carain shouted Furious Aisha asked bewildered what are you doing sir carain felling angry he replied that's my line what are you doing alenis inquired glancing at carain Arisha who might this be she explained oh this is Sir carain duras the Second Son of Duke arant alidis said oh I see I'm alenis deita it looks like you became ais's friend while I was away he extends his hand towards carain to greet and said it's nice to meet you carain looks towards Arisha and said hey you why do you

treat us differently he and I are the same age so why am I sir Carson when you call him only by his name and you talk to him differently too carin's anger was cable orisa wonders why is he angry she said well alenis and I both agreed to call each other by name then cars furiously demanded then call me by my name too you have permission she replied I refuse she said more importantly you should return his greeting don't be so rude he then changed his demeanor and said fine it's nice to meet you I'm

carain duras alandis replied I've heard of your accomplishments but this is my first time meeting you in person it's a pleasure carain then quickly said to Arisa I did it okay now call my name carain insisted Arisa thinks in her mind what kind of logic is that she calls out carain carain beams with joy then Arisha asked are you satisfied he frowned and said hey why did your tone change she said you asked me to call your name you didn't say anything about tone carain screams in frustration what the heck why is it so complicated

orisha trying not to laugh at his frustration but she still laughs a little alenis looks at her giggling and said I came back after such a long time you're not going to give me anything orisa asked while surprised a little is there something you want he replied there is will you give it to me me she quickly responded of course she thinks in her mind I'll give him the bookmark another time then alenis said your nickname while confused Arisha said my nickname nickname GES are only allowed between family and lovers it's unusual between friends orisha

thinks in her mind what should I do I'm still the future Empress in name the royal family might think this is problematic but if I refuse alenis might be hurt while she was busy in her thoughts Alena said don't worry I won't call you by your nickname in front of others you don't have to worry so much orisa looks towards carain for a moment and then said all right you may alenis said thank you will you call me by my nickname as well orisa then said Allan she thinks in her mind this is the first

time someone other than my family has called me by my nickname how I had wished to hear that name from him back then when I watched those two I was so jealous of jun but now I'm just like them while she was reminiscing carain suddenly grabbed her and said hey what's wrong are you crying he asked why did he say something to you alenis said your misunderstanding the situation why would I want to make Tia cry alenis said calmly carain while confused asked what Tia orisa said to himself you said you wouldn't call me that

in front of others he said with a grin well I just received permission carain then said Tia can you go inside first the two of us need to discuss something she replied oh all right I'll wait for you in the drawing room going she looks towards them and thinks will they be all right Allan is more mature so HEK know what to do going to the drawing room Arisha calls Lena Lena she said bring the best lemon bomb tea leaves that we have Taylor tell the kitchen staff to hurry with the tea time snacks everyone

else please clean the drawing room oh and please light the scented candle we received a few days ago Lena smiles and said gosh Miss are you that happy you're smiling so brightly orista replied while smiling yes alenis has returned mean while outside alenis said thank you sir carain looks like you've been taking care of Tia while I was away I don't know if we'll see each other again but it's great that we had the chance to finally meet alenis said politely but carain wasn't having it carain asked with anger what dot dot hedum smiles in

a mocking way and said ha seriously hey I know what you're like so why don't you just act like yourself already alenis asked what do you mean he gets close to him and said I know that you're just pretending to be gentle in front of her pointing towards him he said you weed ha ha haa alenis Chuckles and said I see I thought you were just a rude child but perhaps you do have some sense but is it more out of animal instinct or something of the sort carrot boy carain gets a disturbed feeling for

a moment then he smiles and said ha so that's the real you he asked and what was that carrot boy alenis replied didn't you just call me a weed your word choice is poor I'm sure you were just referring to my hair color so I replied back on a level you could understand he explained a carrot is a root plant so we're technically under the same category isn't that nice as they were busy bickering Lena was pushing the serving cart to the drawing room she gets startled by carin's W rods she saw outside the window

carain freaks out and grabs allendis by his collar and said you jerk she gets agitated seeing them quarrel and she dashes away to call someone carain then said in Anger don't run your mouth as you please alenis said I see that you've been eyeing Tia while I was away but it's time for you to go carain while Furious asked what did you say so what if I don't go what are you going to do about it alenis said she's mine I won't let you take her carain asked ha how is she yours alenis slaps carin's

hand way and asks how much do you know about Tia carain was unable to answer uh allendis then said listen carefully our first meeting was on September 3rd year 958 at 2:43 p.m. on that day Tia wore a blue dress that came down to her knees up to today we've met a total of 562 times we've spent 3,226 hours together we've had a total of 1,358 Cups of Tea together among them the most frequent was lemon bomb tea which we drank 373 times times the next was hibiscus te which we had 294 times carain creeps

out wh what alenis continued we've hugged 9001 times and I've patted her on the head 1,384 times he then asked now tell me how many hours have you spent with Tia carain replied you're totally insane you've been counting all of that pointing towards him he asked you weed does she know that you're this crazy alenis asked what do you think think carain replied ah you're nuts he said seeing all this makes it clear it be better to tell her who you really are alenis thinks in his mind idiot as carain was walking away meanwhile in

the drawing room orisha asked what is that true Lena while freaking out Lena replied it is Sir alenis was saying something and sir carain just grabbed his throat like this he was about to punch him I'm sure of it orisa said I didn't think they would become friends right from the start but still Lena said in my opinion it's definitely jealousy orisha asked what Lena replied they didn't know about each other until just now they're definitely fighting over you I'd say orisa laughs at her suggestion and said that can't be it gee Lena you've been

reading too many romance novels lately Lena replied what do you mean though it's true that I like them that's not the point I may be wrong about sir carain but I'm sure about sir allendis a stranger appeared while he was away of course he would be disgruntled orisa said allendis and I are just friends Lena asked you were proposed too so how are you just friends orisa replied feeling burdened that's just a memory from our childhood and there's nothing about me that men would like Lena said lady Arista why do you as she was talking

carain came and interrupt her hey hey what kind of relationship do you have with that guy orisa asked do you mean endis annoyingly carain asked yeah that weed orisa wonders ha what does he mean by weed carain said you shouldn't be friends with that guy orisa replied what are you talking about carain replied he's nuts totally crazy look alenis said H standing behind him are you saying I've gone crazy sir carain Arisha said welcome allendis would you like some tea it's lemon bomb allendis replied while smiling of course course it's my favorite she asked did

something happen I heard you two weren't getting along alenis replied not at all I was surprised by how well we understood each other he really has some great sense don't you agree sir carain carain looking at him replied I don't want to be lumped together with the likes of you alenis said what a Pity I think we get along quite well carain shouted OG stop it while having snacks Arisa wondered did nothing really happen Allan looks pretty calm she suddenly remembers and ask oh oh Allan in your letter what did you mean by special gift

alenis asked H what you still didn't get it I'm a bit disappointed aresa thinks in her mind huh but there was nothing else not even white chocolate alenis added I'm the gift obviously didn't I tell you before I'm a sweet warm man orista replied what gosh Allan carain feels creeped out by their conversation carain asked hey Mr Weed are you crazy you're saying something ridiculous again orisa said but that's true nothing is more special than meeting a good friend who has been away thank you for coming back Allan alenis said of course wow Aisa then

thinks in her mind right Lena must have been mistaken looking at them she thinks those two wouldn't fight over me I can only hope to have more joyful memories with more people suddenly the butler came and said Miss a letter has arrived for you orista replied ah thank you looking at the letter she thinks is it from Papa she picks up the letter and saw the Insignia of the Roaring Gold Lion looking at the letter she thinks the Roaring Gold Lion it's from the royal family she starts reading the letter carain asked what's wrong is

it bad news she replied no it's not that he then asked then why are you making that face Allan is said this is the only letter the royal family would send at a time like this carain asked huh what is it alenis continued and you really call yourself a member of One of castina Empire's most prestigious noble families carain again asked huh so what Allen is told the Royal Prince will soon have his Coming of Age ceremony the Empire's one and only Heir will now be acknowledged as an adult it won't be a simple Festival

those from the temples and Nations all over the land will be watching and she's probably invited to attend as the princess fiance huh Arisa was still sitting there with a gloomy face she thinks in her mind what should I do this is it the time the emperor has promised to me is coming to an end and papa isn't even back yet will I be able to say that I want to be the heir of my own family trying to console her alenis asked Tia are you all right she replied yes of course she leans towards

alenis and thinks such warm hands Allan you're always taking care of me she then said thank you I feel much better now carain asked hey what are you doing ruining their moment he said really you too how can you just stay in his arms like that break it up from that day Castell City bustled with visitors from all over the land everyone gathered to watch the little son of the Empire become an adult though the treasury had suffered from the drought the Imperial government distributed crops more generously than ever before all those who had gone

to suppress the riots and help with relief efforts return to the city except for Marquis Karen who as of yet had not been heard from one day while training a servant came and said my lady the Royal Tailor has arrived to measure you for your dress orisa said please excuse me I think I'll have to stop here for today carian said oh well alenis said see you later Tia looking at her leaving carain said ha she looks like she's being dragged into an execution not a cele ation does she need to be that scared and

here I thought she finally got more lively this year everything's gone to waste now he said at this rate she's going to collapse again alenis asked what looking at him carain asked what alenis asked what did you just say tia collapsed before carain replied yeah dude alenis again asked why carain replied why else she's planning to take on the legacy of he stopped in the middle alenis asked him when did she collapse and what do you mean by take on something carain replied I'm not telling you alenis said H oh really so you were only

pretending to know something I knew it you wouldn't know anything about Tia ACR sign hearing his words shouted what did you just say weed what about you then if you know her so well why are you asking me alenis replied stop yelling I'm not the one you should be picking a fight fight with right now scratching his head carain said oh right she's the prince's fiance then allenes thinks for a moment and then grits his teeth alenis said ah darn it carain said this isn't the time to be wasting my energy on some plant alenis

replied that's because you don't think far enough ahead carain said you're so annoying alenis said you mean yourself at night while opening her rooms door Arisha thinks I wonder if something happened tomorrow is already the day of the ceremony I heard that most who had been dispatched have returned so why hasn't Papa sent any news we're not at War he's simply patrolling the lands of the Empire and still I feel so afraid Papa hurry and come back home I don't have the courage to fight this alone a maid came and said Miss sir allendis has

arrived while having T allendis said sorry for visiting so late were you resting orisa asked it's all right have you finished your preparations for tomorrow he replied there weren't much I just have to attend looking at her worried allena said but why do you not look well my lady orisa Smiles hearing words of consoling alenis said It's upsetting actually I heard from Sir carain that you were very sick while I was away and that you're anxious as if you're being chased by something orisha stuns for a moment then averting her eyes she said I see

alenis continued I sent you that letter since I thought you would be troubled but it looks like it didn't help orisa thinks in her mind Allan I made you worry even though you were so far away then alen said I know this isn't a good time and that I'm being Hasty Tia but I think I have to say it now a little even if it's just a little it's fine so why not open up to me he continued you're kind but you never show what you're truly thinking that's why I don't know why you're suffering

why you don't like the prince and why you wish to escape from the Royal Palace orisa said Allan he continued I've been watching you all this time you're suffering and yet I can't help you because I don't know the reason he stands up and said won't you talk to me he grabs her hands and said tell me what you fear and how I can help you looking at him Arisa thinks in her mind Allan he has worried about me this much what should I do would it be all right to tell alenis suddenly Arisa Heard

a Voice in her head don't say anything Arista looks towards the voice it was her past self she told tell him nothing are you going to show him this endless Darkness just because of a few sweet words will he believe you you think he'll take what you say seriously and what if you get abandoned again aren't you afraid while she was thinking alenis said trust me Tia I want to share your burden aristas thought to herself share my burden Allan has always been gentle and kind and he listens to me right I must gather the

courage to talk about it otherwise I will never be able to move on from this place I promised to live on with the people around me and even though I tried to hide it you didn't neglect me you kept asking me how to help she then said to alenis all right I'll tell you Allan after that for a few moments Arisha doesn't speak she thinks in her mind but how should I tell him even if it's Allan would he believe what I say about the past I don't want to be treated like I'm mad because

of already gone insane once before should I just say that everything was a dream dot dot thought no it's all right if it's Alan HEK surely believe me I'll Trust You Allan she then spoke I feel like I've woken up from a very long dream she told my life right now my life right now is the second one I've woken up to after dying what do you think I told Alan about everything that had happened to me in the past about the true girl of prophecy about how much I suffered while watching Jun and ruve

about how I lost my child and how I stabbed the prince after learning that my father was dead I loved the Royal Prince very much and it was painful I was lonely in pain and fell into despair I desperately tried to escape but in the end when I opened my eyes I had returned to my 10-year-old self it's been a few years since I first woke up but I can't find a way to make up for this lack of time I want to escape that gruesome future but I don't know what more I can do

I don't know after telling everything Arisha looks towards alenis and wonder will he believe me alenis said I see that must have been painful Tia hearing his words Arisha thinks his words are so gentle I knew Alan would Arisha hugs him and starts crying alenis said you're all right now Tia you just had a very bad dream pay it no mind in the end it's just a dream orisha looks at him shocked and said Allan alenis continued but this is a bit unsettling why are you suddenly talking about a dream that's not what I asked

you about he asked did you bring it up you still can't trust me still shocked Arisa looks at him and thinks I see that's it she said allendis you think I'm lying from the start you didn't expect me to open up and be honest in the first place right alenis replied that's not true I'm just saying after seeing you worry I know how hard it is for you to talk about it AR istus thinks in her mind so that's it she said I know that it's hard to believe I know how silly it sounds still

I thought if it was knew my words would be taken seriously concerned by her words Alena said Tia she thinks in her mind I told you something that I didn't even tell Papa only to you I thought you would listen to me she yelled you told me to trust you yet you're the one who doesn't trust me shocked by her words alenis said Tia that's not true she continued you shouldn't have asked me anything then at least I wouldn't have noticed she thought to herself then I wouldn't feel so betrayed alenis apologized saying Tia I'm

sorry he said it's all my fault so please don't push me away Arisa pushed his hand away while alenis was saying I won't ever ask you about it again so please while walking away ARA said to Lena Lena Our Guest will be leaving now alenis called from behind Tia wait Tia orisha said once again please leave go the day of the prince's Coming of Age ceremony Maids were preparing Arisa where's that Sapphire pen not this one something brighter yes that one and bring a ribbon could you raise your chin a bit my lady looking at

Arisa maid said to the other the lady seems down today well with sir alenis yesterday the other maid asked oh my really Shish Lena then said to them you there stop gossiping like that orisha then remembers allendis in her mind saying Tia I'm sorry please don't push me away while she gets off the carriage in Royal she thinks in her mind I don't care anymore I have no one and whatever I do it doesn't matter because whatever happens today makes no difference I am drifting along alone with no place to rest the servant said to

the prince lady Arisha has arrived orista greets the prince saying greetings your highness the future son of the Empire it is I orista L Monique she thought to herself I feel like I am once again an empty shell looking at his emotionless expression the Prince asked why are you he stops in the middle and thinks what's with that expression then he said never mind letun go the prince then grabs her hand and hey walks to the banquet hall the announcer called ruis calud and Shaina castina the Royal Prince and Lady Arisa Monique Duke arant standing

with his son said greetings Your Highness Duke said while bowing congratulations on your coming of age your highness Allen is present beside his father looks towards aritis and she also looks towards him she thinks Allan our eyes met the prince after noticing that glances towards alenis and thinks him house verita the ceremony began in accordance with Imperial tradition the Royal Prince will be crowned as an adult now take this crown and sword everyone celebrated and congratulates the prince congratulations your highness glory to the castina Empire the prince said I am happy to see so many

here to congratulate me on this important day I am deeply thankful to you all please enjoy tonight's banquet the crowd shouted thank you your highness leaving the banquet hall Arisa went toide to get fresh air pH it's suffocating I feel nauseous from the crowd if only Papa was here while she was busy thinking she heard a voice Tia she looks towards alenis and said Allan holding the crown Heron said I shall put this Crown away the prince asked where is Lady Arisa there's still more for us to do today Heron replied she said said she

needed to leave for a moment to touch up her appearance Heron said to a servant send someone to the prince cut him off saying there's no need the prince thinks in her mind Chancellor Ruth's Second Son I've heard about him that he's been training at the Monique residence I heard they were close but I thought it was simply because they were acquaintances under the same Alliance but is that really the picture of those who are simply acquaintances he thought to himself I see you can show so many expressions in front of him yet all you

show to me is fear or nothing at all meanwhile Arisa leaves allendis he tries to talk to her and stop her but she left looking at them carain thinks what are they doing looking at Arisha arriving in Banquet Hall Heron said she's arrived your highness Arisha wonders ha what am I doing I hope my eyes aren't red I feel conflicted she gets startled as Prince comes close to her your highness forgive me for leaving my position looking at her prince thinks this reaction again he smiles and said dear lady asking her hand he said would

you do me the honor of being my first dance partner as an adult he thinks in his mind I'll hear it today the reason why you make that face she replied yes of course your highness while everyone was looking at them they started dancing people present their talks to each other oh my lady Arisha has yet to make her debut correct this is my first time seeing her she's so calm and mature she looks so elegant as expected of the princess fiance she'll become a beautiful woman when she's older while dancing Arisa thinks in her

mind cold hands and dancing in Silence the same banquet and the same dance as before she recalls in her mind in my past life right here in this moment this was when my heart was captured by him it was my first time at a banquet and people's eyes wouldn't stop following me amidst the confusion he smiled and reached out his hand to me though it was only a formality he was my one and only she wonders what's different from the past and now perhaps I'm still walking the same fate as before I was pretentious before

the god Pioneer perhaps that name is of no use it's simply a name given to me by a God I rejected while she was busy in her thoughts the prince said how unusual she asked what do you mean he asked isn't this your first time dancing yet you seem very experienced she replied I've been practicing she said to herself in her mind countless times in the past the prince asked practicing but I can clearly see that you're not focused perhaps there's another dance partner you've been practicing with to get this good she replied how could

that be I would never he said really then looking towards Alan as he asked how about that one the younger son of Duke Ruth orisha also looks towards Allan she tripped and was about to fall but the prince quickly grabs her she said your highness the prince said how unpleasant then they stopped dancing and everyone claps at them that was amazing those two look gorgeous together they applaus that how amazing they were together the prince then said thank you for being my dance partner during my first dance she replied oh no the honor was all

mine then the envoys started presenting gifts congratulations your Royal Highness this gift is from the royal family of the Rua Kingdom the second Queen of the Y Kingdom sends this gift this is from the soo Kingdom on a chair Arisa wondered so then when should I speak with the emperor once the envoys are done everyone will move to another location at that point there won't be a lot of people sitting besides her the prince said you she replied why yes your highness he said I've always thought it was odd but why are you so scared

of me she replied s scared I don't know what you mean the prince said I'm sure you know very well what I'm talking about perhaps you remembered what happened when we were young while oblivious she asked when we were young he thinks in his mind I guess that's not it he asked then perhaps it's because of that Pioneer middle name she asked how did you the prince said though unlikely you now hold a right to succeed the throne and you were chosen by prophecy father commanded it be kept a secret but of course I'd be

aware of an imperial order she asked what do you plan to do about me he suggested a queen it would be safe for you to be the queen instead of the empress she thinks in her mind the Queen the prince's future Queen from his point of view I'm an obstacle of course he would think like that the prince continued since your family has been loyal for Generations I will allow you to keep your status will that be fine she gets scared thinking about the horrible past the prince looks towards her and asks why are you

making that face shouldn't you be glad the honor of your family will continue isn't that what you were worried about orisa thinks in her mind no that was a mistake I shouldn't have asked even if I become Queen Jun will still appear in this world then the true Lady of Prophecy will be revealed I should have told him that I wanted to succeed my family but if I speak of that now I will be rejecting the Royal Prince's offer this might be my end she gathers courage and said why your highness I the people in

audience suddenly started talking to each other looking at them talk the said looks like someone just arrived Arisha looks towards the shinning robe of the person coming and stands up her father came and greets please forgive me for being late greetings your majesty the sole son of the Empire and to you your highness the future son of the Empire looking at him Arisha almost cried her father continued it is I Karen lamonique commander of the second Squad I have returned orisha while looking at her father thinks Papa heun's returned safely the emperor saidou finally back

Marquis do you know how worried I was to receive no word from you her father said my apologies I was rushing to arrive in time for the prince's ceremony so I was unable to send word in advance then the emperor said I see well it's great to have you back you should rest for now he replied yes your majesty then the emperor said and I too we take a short stroll after that Arisa went close to her father and calls Papa her father asked Tia have you been well looks like you've grown a bit she

replied and you look a bit worn out I'm glad that you're safe I've been waiting for you I wasn't sure when you'd return I've really she finally cried consoling her he said a grown lady shouldn't show her tears so easily what will everyone think walking towards them the emperor said my my looks like your daughter is still a young girl Marquis her father replied it's just as you've said your Majesty perhaps it's because of been too easy on her the emperor asked you being easy that's hard to imagine her father replied as you can see

my daughter still has a lot to learn I believe she's not mature enough to support the prince who's now already an adult hearing his words the prince gets confused the emperor asked him so then Marquis said I think it is time for me to announce an heir for my family jokingly the emperor asked are you perhaps thinking of marrying again who could it be Marquis replied no of course not I wouldn't do such a thing and I definitely can't do such a thing I'm sure you would know about that best your majesty the emperor gets

shocked for a moment Marquis continued she is my only child now and in the future the emperor asked don't tell me you're planning to train her are you serious you were always reluctant her father said I wonder the prince recalls and thinks in his mind the heir the heir of house is that why she was learning how to wield a sword I see that's why she always reacted that way you would go that far the prince said Marquis Karen this is all too sudden I do admit that I haven't shown my appreciation for your daughter

until now but I've never once denied her either it is a matter of fact that lady Arisa is my partner sent by God yet now you want to decide on an air her father replied I admit that I have no excuse for that matter then the prince said we should discuss this again at a later time it's not something to talk about on a day like this he said father there are many eyes on us it's about time we leave the emperor said H very well Maris Karen and Lady Arista I hope to see you

again while the people in audience whispered the emperor and Prince left while leaving Prince takes a glance towards Arisha then the Duke arant came and said Karen my friend why were you so late imagine how anxious your daughter must have felt her father said it just happened the Duke said g Cajun returned right away so how could a commander not send any word of his own arrival standing besides his brother carain wondered H should I ask her about what I saw looks like something happened between her and the weed the Duke asked by the way

did you lose weight your cheeks look a bit no they should be puffier actually Arisa Chuckles hearing the Duke carain then denies his action the prince while leaving looks towards while she was talking to carain and thinks it has only been a day but a lot has happened and a lot of thoughts have crossed my mind starting from this day what will happen to me where am I headed at night while entering the room her father said Tia it's me she said Papa you must be tired you should be resting her father said I'm all

right you're the one who seems exhausted did something happen she shakes her head and said no nothing much her father said I'm sorry for being late without telling you you must have felt anxious he Pats her and Arisha said it's fine you came back safely hugging her father she thinks in her mind I've missed Papa's hugs when I'm in his arms my worries melt away like snow right now this is all I need her father said I'll stay with you until you fall asleep the next morning orisa's sleep gets disturbed by Voices of someone talking

umh she Rises up from her bed and said so noisy she opens the the windows and wonders what's going on this early in the morning she looks outside the knights were standing talking to each other they looks towards Arisa and started talking oh it's lady Arisa good morning my lady my lady did you sleep well it's been so long we're a bit late aren't we it's good to see you well Aisa joyfully said everyone you're all back safe as she was saying she suddenly remembers that she is in her night gown K she quickly gets

back inside the knights covers their eyes and said to each other everyone close your eyes my eyesight has been getting worse these days OG we didn't see anything a anyway lady orisa orisa takes a peek from the window the knights said wek be coming here again every day so we'll be in your care we'll see you at the training grounds later she smiles and thinks I can hear people chatting every morning and papa is there when I go downstairs to eat my precious days are finally back at breakfast her father said good morning he said

about what happened yesterday Tia with his majesty and the prince you don't need to worry too much she said but Papa he replied you must feel unsure about the situation since we couldn't finish the matter back there the emperor would have understood well enough so he wouldn't do anything rash and so would the prince for now you should just rest I'm sure managing the mansion by yourself was exhausting she replied yes she thinks in her mind if I am able to I also wish to do that but will everything be all right just by declaring

me as the heir I have to become a night first to be the heir of house Monique and I will only be able to use that by becoming the heir in order to avoid the engagement The Vow meanwhile the prince saide planning to use that Heron asked pardon did you say something he replied it's nothing he thinks in his mind she doesn't remember what happened when we were children yet whenever she sees me she's afraid and she visits my father's Garden all the time but all this time she was planning to be the heir of

house Monique and by using that vow they're willing to go that far does she want to avoid getting involved with me that much but I still haven't heard the reason just what are you thinking at Duke Rass residence carain was sparring with his brother H Cajun asked what happened you don't usually ask me to train with you using a real sword he replied nothing really I just wanted to check if you're still in shape his brother asked really you seem a bit too Restless though you're not visiting the Monique Mansion today his mood gets down

and he said uh well even if I go I'll just be a bother looking at him Cajun said H I suppose since the commander is back I guess I'll volunteer my services to my Rascal of a brother Cain replied I'm not a rascal I'm a genius even better than you Cajun hits him on his head ouch at Monique residence Arista was sitting on a bench dazed looking at her night talks to each other what's wrong with Lady Arista she's been out of it for a while now but she doesn't look sick what happened while we

were away Arisa was still dazed her father came and said Tia didn't I tell you you can rest today go inside she smiles and said Papa I'm all right I want to watch everyone from here it's just Papa and everyone else have returned my life is back to how was before but somehow I feel I want to go somewhere as she was talking she thinks in her mind perhaps I'm exhausted now that I'm so relieved it's difficult to stay at home now ha she suddenly gasped and said while fidgeting oh no I didn't mean anything

by that it's just I'm a bit tired her father asked then Tia would you like to leave it will take us 2 days to reach our estate outside the city if you'd like we can go there together recalling their estate in her mind she thinks to the Monique estate with Papa my whole life I've never left the city but deep down I've yearned to if I can leave this place if it's with Papa she replied yes let's go after few days they servants were talking to each other do you have everything Allan send lady arista's

luggage here on a separate wagon one of them said lady Arista take care and be safe on your way she relied yes I'll be back soon she thinks in her mind since since going back in time I've tried everything I could for the past 3 years how much longer will I be able to Escape right now of the Fate God has created right now I just want to leave behind everything that exhausts me everything that happened all those complicated feelings at a place where I can forget it all her father calls prepared to leave Tia

let's go and go somewhere far away from the city the prince's Castle duj Ruth said then your highness I shall take my leave walking in the hwat he thinks ha I'm so tired he suddenly saw Duke arant and calls arant aring said oh you're done Duke Ruth said I heard Karen took a vacation arant replied yes looks like he's visiting the family estate with his daughter it's already been a few days so they should have arrived by now Ruth asked did the emperor allow that without question arant replied he did and thanks to that I'm

here working every day without a break I need to rest too usually the first and second commanders take turns while thoughtful Duke Ruth said as I thought it looks like they talked about canceling the engagement during the ceremony arant replied yes though I couldn't ask since there were too many ears some would have noticed and some Nobles too Duke arant asked how is His Highness he replied how else discontent he found out about it directly so he won't let it happen just like that arant said things are going to get noisy from now on inside

and out meanwhile in the carriage her father calls Tia Tia she wakes up and said um Papa he said we're almost there you should get up now take a look outside she looks outside and gets amazed wow after reaching the maids and butlers welcomes them Butler Ben said welcome master and young lady Maris said it's been a long time Ben have you been well while smiling Arisa asked how are you Ben here replied there's nothing going on here in this empty manner that an old retired man can't handle he said I'm relieved to see both

of you in such good health the trip must have been tiring please rest first looking at the building Arisha thinks so this Castle is the last line of defense for the capital snat at top orisa looks at the scenery and thinks I've never traveled before so I didn't know there was such a quiet place just outside of the city The View here is different from that of the capital this old Manor is surrounded by Ivy covered walls with trees and flowers growing everywhere and here I am as if I'm running away I've struggled for the

past 3 years to escape my fate from the past but now I've abandoned everything to run away perhaps I shouldn't have run like this but I didn't have a choice she looks at servants unloading the luggage and thinks if Papa hadn't returned when he did I would have been in an even deeper mess than I am now while recalling she wondered Papa then again Papa's talk with the emperor what did he mean by that that while she was busy in her thoughts Ben came and asked isn't the view marvelous she looks towards him and said

Ben I didn't know our estate had such an amazing Castle he replied it was bestowed to house Monique by the royal family Generations ago you'll come to love this place in no time unlike other Countryside Estates this place is quiet and peaceful she approved yes he added and you miss have grown so much since I last saw you you only came up to my knees a little while ago but now you're all grown up how time flies orisha said that was years ago Ben looking at her Ben thinks but her eyes they reflect a time

that seems much older than her age what hardships have you faced he said seems like my inadequate son wasn't able to take care of you properly your face is full of worry while Arisa gets surprised he said I must ask the Marquis to reprimand him properly orisa replied oh no Allan has been doing well I'm just tired since I've been busy lately that's all and papa while confused Ben asked Papa she turns and said a father needs to rest since he just came back from the Expedition then Ben said I'm glad to know the two

of you are so close well I must inform the servants to ready your dinner so please take your time she said yes thank you she wonders groans so much me she suddenly remembers Alena words we still have a long way to go I hope you grow up soon my lady she thinks in her mind allendis do you know do you know how much I had to consider it when you asked me to trust you and how my heart collapsed when I saw your face full of disbelief once again I was abandoned by someone I thought

was dear to me that suddenly she heard Lena's Vice calling her my lady come over here and take a look this wagon is full of blooming flowers she smiles and replied I'll be there while walking to Lena she thinks I won't think about any of that for now I'll only look at what brings me joy I'll rest here without worry that is why I'm here even if someone blames me for running away meanwhile allendis was lying on his bed said Tia recalling the moments she tells in her mind it's been a month since we came

to the estate I occasionally learned about Papa's duties by being at his side I also trained together with the Knights who came with us while I took a peaceful break time flew by so quickly orisha was practicing with the sword ha ha her father said you've gotten a lot better Tia she asked really her father asked are you having fun training she told yes what I learned from Seymour and carai mean from Sir carain helped a lot she said I'm still not strong enough but I can train for much longer than I used to look

her father replied I see looking at her training her father thinks in his mind I thought she would quit after a while but she's holding up well the fighting style of our house is quite aggressive it will prove Pro difficult for her as she continues her studies then perhaps ha I'm done the Knight said you've done well today too lady Arista holding the to linaa said you came all the way out here wouldn't it be better to take a break from training Arista replied I have a long way to go if I take a break

now I'll forget everything that I've learned while she was talking her father said to Ben send this letter to how Ras Ben replied yes master looking at them she wonders to how I wonder what it's about while we've been staying here he's been working this whole time even though he's busy is he staying here because of me Papa at RAS Manor the servant said young Master you have a visitor scratching her head carain asked gee who would visit me so early without he looks at allendis and stops huh he said so it was you while

having T he asked what brings you here this is a depressing way to start the day dot dot what's with that face Allen dis present him a letter Carson quickly stands up and asked what is this a letter of challenge good I'm fine with that letun Take It Outside alenis said I don't have the energy to quarrel with you here's my letter to Tia keep this for me and pass it on to her while grabbing the letter carain asked huh don't you know she's at her estate right now I'll take it for now though he

replied I know and that's why I'm leaving it with you carain asked you're funny how do you know I'll be able to pass this on to her alenis replied because you'll see Tia before I do he asked oh really he then asked hey did something happen between you and her alenis replied you saw them right on that day the two of them during the ceremony carain thinks for a moment and then asked so alenis replied so I'm suggesting a temporary truth he said I really didn't want to say this but listen carefully t after alenis

left while sitting at Ground carain said to himself The Coming of Age ceremony well they did seem pretty close uh so what I thought she was learning to fight in order to avoid getting married so why were they so close and why did they keep whispering to each other they look like a natural pair as if they were like that since long before and suddenly the weed is acting that way something definitely happened but I know nothing I don't know what's happening on either side only I don't know he then shouted ah whatever why should

I care about who she marries or who she has a fight with he said we're just friends we're not close enough don't you think dot dot or not whatever I should just keep training he starts training while training he dozes off but I wonder if she's training properly he then realized uh what am I pondering about focus focus he again starts thinks she didn't faint again did she she's so fragile she'd break a bone if someone hit her is she training like a crazy person again while he was dozing off his father came and startled

him he shouted father his father laughs and said haha having a hard time focusing he asked what were you thinking so hard about that you didn't even notice me approaching changing the topic he said ah it's just I have things I need to worry about too while smiling tea his father asked oh really carain asked B but how come you're here at this hour are you already done with work you're supposed to work every day his father Grins and said something came up carain you must hurry to the Monique estate right away shocked from hearing

this carain asked to the Monique estate just all of a sudden his father replied with a stern look yes today right now carain again asked right now his father said there's nothing to be surprised about just go there and help the young lady train carain asked why me isn't the mark there with her Duke Arin replied you'll see once you get there while patting carain his father said this request was specifically addressed to you so I trust you'll do well after that while going away Duke Arin said to himself finally I can rest standing behind

they're processing everything carain said to himself so I'm really going to see her first don't tell me that we' predicted this he wonder if Arisha will be surprised or will she be waiting for me he smiles remembering specifically addressed to me huh meanwhile allendis was stamping the letter thinking not yet I have no right to see you just yet so for now I'll leave you in someone else's care one mistake was enough I'll get you back no matter what my lady back at the Royal Palace nobles were gossiping to each other did you hear it

looks like the engagement between the prince and Lady Arisha may not happen apparently Marquis Karen brought it up to his majesty during the prince's Coming of Age ceremony unless the Marquis remarries there is only one Blood air in the family then the engagement is cancelled perhaps house Monique and the royal family had some sort of dispute Shish watch what you say the other countries seem to have noticed as well and the royal families from the other kingdoms are trying to seize this opportunity this includes the Lisa Kingdom who have always sought after the title of

empress everyone will be eyeing the crown of the future Empress carain reached the Monique territory orisa was surprised by his arrival she asked car carain replied hey it's been a while orisha asked what brings you here carain answered what's with that face I'm your guest he smirked and said I came here thanks to a special request you know surprised by his reply Arisa asked who would ask for you orisa's father came and said I called for him he said to carain thank you for coming all this way were you briefed on the details he replied

oblivious to the facts nope my father told me I'd find out out when I got here and chased me out the door Marquis then said I see it seems I must return to the capital so I was hoping you could help Tia with her training after listening to this Arisha asked Papa you're going back to the capital but you'll come back here won't you her father replied I've been neglecting my duties as a commander so it won't be easy for me to return or would you like to go back with me hearing this carain thinks

in hi mind then why am I here thinking about all the things Arisha answer answered I'd like to stay here her father said I see he patted her and said all right then stay here as long as you wish he then said to the butler Ben please prepare my luggage I'll be returning to the capital Ben replied yes sir after her father left Arisha thinks in her mind Papa he knew I wouldn't want to go back then carain said well then since I've been specifically requested to be here and all you should call me master

orisa replied number carain gets flustered and said but why it's true isn't it I'm here to teach you right shaking her head Arisha said I don't want to while agitated carain said can't you just give it a try she said I refuse carain impersonated and said come on just say it Master please teach me how to fight like this orisha said with a serious face why are you smiling like that it's unsettling feeling defeated carain said GE you're so selfish seeing him like this Arisa smiles and said it's been a while since we've seen each

other but you're still the same but I'm glad to see you carain welcome to our estate carin's mood gets better and he said hey you should have said so in the first place he pulls out a letter and said oh yeah here this is yours orisa grabs the letter and said looking at the letter who would she said to herself in her mind the Seal of house verita it's from allendis carain said it's from the weed I'm just delivering it all right orisha stands there looking sad and carain said looking at her geez I can't

stand this did you two fight you used to hang around each other so much it was annoying I was this close to throwing that letter away but I managed to stop myself orisha thinks in her mind allendis we haven't contacted each other since we last parted but he knows that I'm here looking at the letter she thinks what did he write is he going to condemn me or is he going to declare the end of our friendship she opens the letter and starts reading the content of the letter were hello Tia I'd heard that you

were leaving for your family's estate but I only decided to write to you now I did want to write to you earlier but I thought we both needed some time you were right I didn't trust you and I thought you were lying even though I knew that you are the type of person who would rather say nothing than try to make something up I had asked you to trust me yet I betrayed your trust I'm ashamed of myself all I can do now is to ask for your forgiveness I'm sorry Tia I'm truly sorry after

reading the letter Arisha thinks Allan my dear friend she thinks I have to send a reply he must be waiting I have to write something she sends a reply and after receiving the letter alenis said to himself Tia yes this is fine we can start over in this time it will be perfect meanwhile at the Royal Palace the prince was writing a document he toss the pen and takes a break from work he thinks in his mind no matter how much I think about it I don't understand why is she behaving like this from the

moment she was born she was acknowledged as the future empress and grew up as such so then why is she acting against it after all this time does she feel uncomfortable about becoming a Royal or is it because she fears me fear he remembers Arisa and her mother when she was a child and recall these words your highness your highness your highness why he thinks but she's a in me even though she doesn't remember there must be some other reason why I must look into this more while he was busy thinking Heron came and said

your highness while holding the ledgers he said the estimated amount of funds and hands needed for the Borderlands inspection has been prepared the prince said all right he puts his robe on and said tell everyone to gather in the meeting Hall I'll also be attending while he was going to the meeting Hall the noble ladies greeted him your highness greetings your highness the future son of the Empire it's been so long your highness one of them said your highness do you remember me I introduced myself to you at your ceremony I'm glad to see you

are doing so well your highness Heron told there have been more young ladies visiting the palace recently along with envoys from other countries as well the prince looks towards him and said so they see this as an opportunity how terribly annoying we need to leave as soon as possible Haron replied understood then the prince asked when will we pass by the Monique estate looking at The Ledger Heron replied it's 2 days from the capital but since there will be a lot of people with us we won't be able to leave until next month the prince

said with a low voice is that so he then said loudly call Sir Seymour and Sir June while determined he thinks I will definitely hear the reason this time at the Monique territory carain and Arisa were sparring and while sparring Carson was guiding her again ha again again Carson burst out and said do it properly don't just rush in be calm and analyze your opponent then Arisa steps up and slash him near his neck then carain said good that's enough for today praising her he said you've gotten a lot better especially compared to how frail

you were before orisa saidou praising me a lot he replied I'm being honest I don't lie when it's about sword fighting if you keep this up in a few years you can definitely become a knight orisa said that's good to hear boasting himself carain said and that's all thanks to such a great Master orisa thinks in her mind it's true HEK a good teacher and he points out everything with a sharp eye even I can tell that I'm getting better his style of teaching seems to suit me well after that while walking carain said anyway

isn't it about time for you to be more casual with me now orisa countered aren't you the one who wanted me to call you master flustered from her reply carain said oh that I am your master but you know what I mean is something different yeah scratching his face he said I mean I'm the only one talking so informally it feels a bit distant and odd you know orisha thinks in her mind then again while being here with him two seasons have passed already we definitely a lot closer now while walking away she said fine

hearing that carain asked really recalling all the things Arisha tells in her mind thanks to Papa inviting carain I've been in enjoying my time here at first it was difficult for me to even write a reply to allendis but now I'm doing much better allendis sent a reply it was as hello Tia thank you for your reply I tried organizing what you've told me in your letters and here's my understanding you devoted yourself to the prince but he abandoned you and as a result even your family name fell into ruin if what you said is

true then it must have been horrible while sitting on the bench carain asked what's that did the the weed send you another letter what did he say this time while he was trying to grab the letter Arisha said go away carain why are you trying to peek at someone else's letter he replied I'm just curious about what you two are talking about she denied I'm not showing you carain then said geez fine you could just tell me whatever I don't need to know you're so selfish orisa asked I'm being selfish GE I can't let my

guard down around you no manners carain countered yeah yeah well this mannerless one will leave now carain leaves muttering to himself tis I wanted to ask her to go into town with me but she always stays home so boring he suddenly notices something strange while shocked he asked him huh what why are you here sir Seymour and Sir June how did you sir Seymour said greetings lady Arista Saun saidwe Royal Knights have come here by order of his Royal Highness he announced His Highness has left the palace to inspect the lands near the border he

will be arriving here shortly so please be ready to welcome him carain asked His Highness is coming here orisha thinks for a moment and then she said all right Ben please show these two to their rooms and inform everyone to gather he replied understood my lady Arisa was deep in her thoughts carain notices her he stopped her and asked hey what's wrong are you all right she replied huh oh yes I'm all right I'm just surprised she thinks in her mind I thought I would be okay but HEK coming here why so suddenly murmurs and

chatter fill the air as the prince arrived Arisa greeted him greetings your highness the future son of the Empire we are honored to have you at this humble estate the prince smiles and said it's been a while have you been well she replied I've been well thank you I hope you've also been doing the same your highness he said somewhat I appreciate your concern he introduced Heron this person here is my adviser vicount Heron Heron said my full name is heron sud dear it's a pleasure we've met before in the emperor's Garden she remembers oh

that time she thinks in her mind why did he suddenly come here is he here to pressure me no this is the defense line of the capital of course he would pass by here while inspecting the borders of the Empire don't be nervous Tia stay calm I just have to act like usual as she was busy in her thoughts the crowd shouted May the Empire Prosper for all eternity hooray your highness May the Empire Prosper as she heard the crowd cheering Arisa thinks it's so loud it's hurting my ears the prince waves back to the

crowd and then he said we should go orista replied ah yes carain catches Tia as she staggers he asked are you feeling all right she replied I'm fine I just felt a little dizzy from the shouting thank you carain the prince takes a glance at them and then he walks away while going to the estate house on horses the prince asked sir carain is your training going well he replied yes your highness I am working to improve myself every day the prince then said I see I've heard for a while now that you are a

genius when it comes to the Sword I Trust You won't disappoint me I have high expectations for you carain replied I am honored I shall do my best at the estate orisa asked would you like to eat first your highness the prince replied I'd prefer to wash off this dust first she said then let me walk you to your chamber orisa was Dazed as she was walking carain notices and calls hey you Arista returns to her senses and thinks ah I shouldn't be loitering here the prince hearing this takes a glance while walking after that

Arisa guides the chefs and other servants she said Chief do you remember my guide lines he replied of course my lady every dish for His Highness will be varied as you instructed she said all right he has a very sophisticated pallet so please bear with this for a while plan the prince's meals carefully but make sure to show as much appreciation for the others as well the chef replied yes my lady while sitting down to eat the prince looks at the food and gets surprised looking at him Arisa asked your highness is something wrong if

there's a problem he replied it's nothing orisa then said I I see then orisha asked Heron are the dishes to your liking Heron replied yes they're excellent lady Arisha she said ah I see while taking a bite carain said yeah well it's always been okay he flinches and then said I mean excellent lady Arisa as they were eating Arisa thinks in her mind is something wrong something feels off I don't understand why is he doing that at this rate I'm going to die from anxiety the prince keep staring at Arisha offer that Ben said my

lady I've brought both chamomile and hibiscus tea as you requested she said yes thank you she thinks in her mind I feel better now as she served the tea she asked carain Two Sugars right he replied yes thank you lady Arista then the prince said now that I think about it I haven't properly thanked you sir carain he asked pardon the prince said I was worried about my fiance being all alone at this estate but I'm relieved to see that someone like you is here with her I appreciate that very much shocked by his choice

of words carain thinks just then he said my fiance he looks at the prince while shocked the prince asked what's wrong sir carain do you have something to say he replied no nothing but he inwardly thinks if I had my way i' just then the prince said H is that so well then I wonder when my fiance is planning to return to the capital she replied why yes he again asked himh do you plan to return she thinks in her mind is this some kind of joke he's saying my fiance in almost every sentence why

is he suddenly acting so affectionate she replied I I haven't made any plans yet why do you ask he said it feels a bit lonely without you and my father misses you dearly she replied I see she thinks in her mind I don't understand what he's thinking the prince then said sir carain I do apologize but I'd like to spend some time with my fianceé privately after leaving the room carain said to himself I couldn't even say anything before getting kicked out that guy would have laughed at me if he saw this Haron was also

standing outside the room he asked what are you worried about she's not just some regular lady after all carain asked what Heron replied that was impressive even for house Monique I didn't think think everything would be prepared so perfectly and in such short notice feeling annoyed carain asked what are you talking about you all sent the nights in advance Heron replied well that's true he thinks in his mind but how did she know even within the palace only a few people know meanwhile inside the room looking at Arisha the prince said I really don't understand

your conflicting Behavior he explained you fear me so much that you're trembling even now so why were you so considerate earlier Arista replied I just did what I was supposed to do in order to serve you your highness while picking the cup he said supposed to do is that really it he asked the mushroom dish the wine and dessert and even this tea you really have nothing to say about all this orisha thinks in her mind what did I get wrong he doesn't like seafood he enjoys bellet red wine from the year 900 and flare

white wine from the year 928 of the castina Imperial calendar he prefers sour dessert over sweet ones and since he has trouble sleeping he drinks only chamomile tea after the sun goes down she realized ah all of those facts are unknown to those outside of the Royal Palace remembering the past she thinks only a select few know the food preferences of the royalty in the past I would watch him from afar in secret and inform the Royal Chef I thought that maybe by doing this he would notice me I didn't even realize it at first

maybe even if it was just for a second he would acknowledge my love I've been saying that I would Escape but I've been doing exactly as I had done in the past am I chasing after the same end all over again am I going to tie myself to his side devoting all my love to him just as I did before and be tormented over every smile he gives Jun and then as she was busy in her thoughts the prince grabs her and asked what are you thinking about I will ask you one last time why

do you know so much about me yet you try to avoid me at the same time I even promised to make you a queen so why do you refuse me so orisa said your highness the prince said give me a clear answer god named you as my partner is there a reason to refuse that is the Fate you are destined to she suddenly remembered these words it is a decision given to humans that cannot be avoided it is fate it is Fatam then she remembers the prince's words from her past life make no mistake you

are nothing to me meanwhile the prince asked are you really refusing to be the empress just to inherit your family's Legacy as the prince was talking she remembers these words house Monique is flourishing even now so it can't be due to simple loyalty for your family either don't the prince said if you become the empress your child will be the heir of this Empire that is an honor that cannot be compared with becoming a martianus the prince's past self was contradicting to what he was saying now no your child will never be my Heir did

you really think I would let him live he killed my child and HT Jun I don't want to hear anymore I will never forgive you orisa was trembling while remembering the past the prince looks at her and asked why he extends his hand while saying why are you orisa snaps and freaked out she screamed stop it I don't want to hear anymore don't come near me don't come near me shocked from her behavior the prince said what are you outside the room everyone heard her scream the prince garbs Arisa as she passes out after screaming

H hold on you're wake up he checked her temperature and realized she has a fever Heron asked from outside the room your highness what's going on May we enter after they enter the prince said while holding Arisa Heron and you there call The Royal doctor hurry up and get her to bed now meanwhile at the capital the Marquis was writing an ink splatters from his pen he thinks in his mind Tia you're doing well I hope this feels like a bad Omen at the Monique estate everyone was worried for Arisha orisha opens her eyes L

lady Arisha are you awake the prince said she's up carain asked hey what happened to yo I mean are you all right lady Arisa Arisa was sitting there with blank Expressions as she was an unconscious doll the prince looks at her and calls the doctor the doctor checks up on her lady Arista can you hear me do you feel any pain anywhere L lady Arista then the doctor said your highness if I may it looks like she's unable to speak due to some sort of psychological shock shocked after hearing that carain asked what do you

mean then the prince ordered Heron send notice to the Monique Manor at once make sure she rests until the Marquis arrives and check on her health to make sure nothing else is wrong Heron reminded him your highness we must leave soon the prince said are you telling me to leave my fiance while she is in this state Heron replied but this is affecting the schedule of the Expedition the prince said just two days let's wait until the Marquis arrives Haron saides your highness then the prince takes a sigh and thinks do you really hate me

so much that you had to scream at my touch and so much so that you closed yourself off what did I ever do to push you to this state why won't you tell me anything The Prince staggers and Heron said your highness you should rest as he staggered the letters that were on the desk fell down the prince picks up a lad and said from house verita hmph it must be him while shuffling through the letters he saw a ladder and thinks a letter she wrote to someone else the prince gets shocked after what he

read in that letter after reading that he said what is this how can this be after the rain stopped in the rainning ground carain was practicing he said to himself in his mind what have I done since coming here even though he told me he remembers allena words I really didn't want to say this but listen carefully take care of Tia he resented himself even after hearing him say that I did nothing I wasn't focused I knew that she wanted to avoid the royal family and now she can't even talk because of shock while he

was busy regretting the prince called Sir carain here you are carain asked your highness what brings you to the training grounds the prince replied it was a bit frustrating staying inside doing nothing so I came out looks like you've been training here all this time you and her carain replied yes then the prince asked what do you think do you think my fiance has the potential to become a knight carain answered I assure you in a few years she will become a knight the prince smiles and said I see while picking up a sword he

said sir carain if you're fine with it I'd like to ask you to spar with me carain asked right now but the prince saides I've always wanted to spar with you since you're so talented he added and do not underestimate me you may be praised as a genius but I am also the pupil of your father Duke arant as they were sparing from the sound of their swords clashing arisia takes a glance at them from sitting inside her room while sparring caran thinks at a time like this all I can do is train he suddenly

notices Arisa looking towards them and gets distracted from The Spar the prince's sword scratches him on his face and the prince said where do you think you're looking Focus feeling agitated carain dashes towards the prince and puts his sword to the prince neck Royal Knight stops him and he puts his sword near Prince's neck all of them stops there after all of them retracted their swords the prince said sir carain let me give you a word of advice carain replied please do the prince said you are a genius with the sword but even a genius

cannot get everything they want while thinking of other matters you should keep that in mind as the Royal Knights escort the prince back he said in your current state you would not even be able to protect yourself carain thinks in his mind what do you know I'm this is the first time I've ever lost my focus during a sparring match so that's what this is I don't think of her as a friend he shouted you idiot he thinks that advice I wonder who it was for after some days Maris returned the servant said Master you

have returned Maris asked how is Tia the servant said well it's a bit hard to explain but first please follow me to Lady arisa's chamber Marquis burst opens the door and calls Tia after looking at oris's expressionless face he said Tia Tia how did this what happened to you Tia the prince said she's been like that this whole time she won't eat her sleep Marquis gets near Arisa ad said Tia why have you become like this again what is making you suffer so much that you have to hide I shouldn't have left you alone for

that I'm sorry even after that Arisa doesn't speak Marquis then grabs Aris and said get a hold of yourself just say something anything Tia Arisha covered her ears with her hands her father said Tia can't you hear your own father the doctor present there said um it would be best not to agitate her too much Marquis then pulls Arisa towards himself and said I have raised you incorrectly I thought it was unfortunate that you had to go through so much at such a young age but I've cuddled you too much you've grown weak did you

really expect to learn how to fight with a sword when you have such a weak mind how will you inherit our family's Legacy in such a state he shouted do you plan to live on like this without a care without thought he shouted again open your eyes Arisa La Monique suddenly Arisa came back to his senses and the light in her eyes came back she said ah P Papa her father asked do you recognize me she said Papa why are you you're supposed at the capital after saying that she passes out her father called Tia

the prince quickly ordered doctor hurry up and check her after checking up on her the doctor said shek all right now shek just sleeping after that the marus apologized please forgive my daughter for showing such imprudent Behavior the prince replied it's quite all right and I do apologize but there are other matters for me to attend to we cannot stay here any longer Mara said I understand I will take care of my daughter so please do not worry the prince replied all right before leaving the prince went to where Arisa was resting and looking at

her he thinks I can't be here that's the only way you'll be able to rest he puts the letter her bed while leaving the maids and Marquis came to say escort him the prince said I hope she recovers soon Marquis said thank you your highness he asked your highness do you perhaps know why Tia had fallen into such a state the prince replied I do not wish to speculate carelessly Maris accepted is that so I understand then I'll see you later at the capital after leaving Heron asked your highness why did you not mention the

letter meanwhile Arista opens her eyes in a complete dark space she wonders where am I Papa I can't see anything Lena why am I here by the sound of flicker someone appeared behind her indifferent scenes started playing all around her she said what's going on looking at the scenes she said what's this they're all me when I was younger she saw a scene in which the emperor said my child come closer over here asteris her younger self replied yes your majesty she thinks for a second that it's her child but then she realized I see

this is my younger self before I had returned to the Past it's me with the emperor and him too when he was young so he was watching us like that in another scenes is Lady Arisha waiting for the prince today too the emperor told her to spend more time with the prince since they will be married one day still isn't she here too often it's obvious that the prince is a avoiding her so why doesn't she realize it looking at another scene she said his Coming of Age ceremony back then during the dance Arisa trips

and fell down and the crowd Chuckles and said oh dear did the lady trip what a Pity lady Arisa are you all right you should have practiced more it can't be helped she's too young such a disgrace how will she support the royal family in the future she resolved herself I can't cause any trouble for the prince I have to be stronger and seal off my emotions I can't be rattled no matter what happens right even when the true Lady of Prophecy appears all the incidents rep played in front of her eyes from her childhood

to her execution in her past life after that she thinks 17 years those years were so pointless why did I live my life like that for what while she was thinking a beam of light appeared in the scene where she returned to her younger self played what's going on this is the day I turn 10 Again Lena what about father the Marquis he is usually in the training Hall at this hour Papa then the incidents from after her return started playing oh all this time everything that I've worked so hard for the new people the

joyful and even the painful days how silly you and I as well H hold on wake up you there hurry up and get her to bed and call the Royal doctor after that with the sound of glass shattering she gets shocked the mirror then she saw a reflection of herself she wonders W what do you want to say to me the other Arisa said something but she couldn't hear her she said what I can't hear you after that she opens her eyes in her bedroom she realized it was a dream another strange dream was it

a nightmare she looks at the letter that was lying besides her bed and said huh it's the letter from Alan I hadn't finished reading it why is it here the letter was is hello Tia thank you for your reply I tried organizing what you you told me in your letters and here's my understanding you devoted yourself to the prince but he abandoned you and as a result even your family name fell into ruin and you went through all of that in a past life if what you said is true then it must have been horrible

but Tia you said that in the past you weren't on good terms with your father nor did you have anyone by your side so what about now are you still alone with no one on your side your father Treasures you dearly and you have other people who care about you too I understand that you desperately want to avoid repeating what happened before but please don't trap yourself in the past only to neglect the present I know how wise you are so I know you can overcome this after reading the letter she looks at her reflection

that was standing in front of her and asked what do you think do I still look like I used to in the past no while crying she said not at all I'm not the same at all the past and the present are different and the future can also change why didn't I realize it sooner if I change myself then my future will also change as she stands up from her bed her father came and said Tia are you all right are you able to get up now she calls Papa she thinks in her mind he

stayed up all night because of me he waited for me she huggs her father and said Papa while patting her he said there there she said Papa let's go back to the capital I'm all right now there are a lot of things I want to tell you because have already changed my fate after few days as they were about to leave for the capital the servants were preparing assembling luggage orista looks around and wonders where's carain I wanted to talk to him carain is present in the training ground and practicing looking at him from a

corner Arisha thinks he's still training but we're leaving soon she looks towards him and he was fully focused on training Arisha left and thought I'll just talk to him later as she was leaving she heard the sound of Sword falling to the ground carain shouted darn it nothing's working hearing that Arisa walks to him and he saw her he asked you're here Arista replied ah yes you're training a lot he said huh not really hearing his abrupt reply Arisha thinks his response is kind of did something happen carain asked hey are you better now orisa

replied yes I'm all right sorry for making you worry carain said if you know then don't get sick she said said ah all right orisha thinks in her mind what's with him normally he would say why would I worry about you ha ha something like that after they left for the capital sitting inside the carriage Arisa takes a glance at carain and thinks I wonder what he's thinking as carain was busy in his thoughts she then said um carain I have something to talk to you about as she said that the carriage shakes for a

moment and Arisa was about to fall carain catches her from falling and said watch out are you okay she said oh why yes thank you she thinks he's so close a knight reported Commander we've got a problem he asked what is it he explained there's mud on the road from the rain a few days ago so the wheels got stuck it's going to take some time to fix Maris explained to them so that's how it is looks like it's going to take a while why don't you two go for a walk nearby orisa replied yes

that sounds good he advised don't wander too far Arisa and carain walks to a field and after looking at the wonderful scen Arisa said wow look over there carain isn't it amazing he replied it is she added I feel bad saying this since everyone is working to fix the carriage but it would have been a waste to just pass this by carain replied yeah looking at him Arisha thinks in her mind it's difficult to talk with him now is he going to stay like this forever but I should tell him before we arrive at the

capital after that carain calls orisha she asked H what is it carain carain looks at her while she looks lovely and doesn't say anything orisha then said ah now that I think about it isn't this the first time that you've directly called me by name carain then clenches his fists and said hey I have something important to tell you she asked yes what is it it's not like you to be so hesitant carain said hey I as he spoke Lena called them saying my lady sir carain we can continue on our way please return to

the carriage orista replied all right Lena wek head back she then asked carain what were you going to tell me he starts walking towards the carriage and said it's nothing letun go orisha said huh but you said it was important carain said aren't you the one who had something to tell me you've been glancing my way since we left the training ground she replied oh right it's nothing big just I'd like to take a break from training for a month or two he replied okay I see she asked are you upset carain replied no I

need more time to train by myself anyway this is good for me looking at him walking towards the carriage Arisha thinks it's good for him to train by himself I understand after all he didn't have time to train alone because he was helping me but I shouldn't feel sad since I'm the one who suggested a break as a friend I shouldn't drag him down after reaching the capital they parted ways Maris said thank you for everything sir carain he replied my pleasure Maris please take care and you too orisa take care I'll see you in

two months she replied all right bye carain after the carriage left carain scratches his head and said to himself come on you idiot what's the point of telling her her now I don't even have the right he recalls the scene from before her silver hair that Shone in the sunset glimmered brightly like light reflecting off a sword he then remembers the prince's words you would not even be able to protect yourself he then said hmph just wait you'll regret taunting me on the night they returned to the capital Arisa told her father about what had

happened to her in her past life her father said I see so when you were 16 a girl with black hair appeared Suddenly at the lake in the palace orista replied yes and everyone said she was the true Lady of Prophecy she added oh but I think it was just a nightmare she thinks in her mind if I say it was a dream then he won't think I'm being strange like Alan did her father said continue tell me the rest after that orisa told him about how unhappy she was as gun took all of the

prince's love and about how their family got entangled in a scandalous incident and were later framed as traitor after telling everything Arisha thinks in her mind he must be thinking that it's hard to believe while thinking her father said I see now I understand why you've been so anxious of course you can't carelessly talk about something that involves treason against the royal family orisa quickly asked Papa you don't think it's just a silly dream you're not going to scold me for being weak her father explained Tia to each individual the self is very precious everyone

has their own own worries how can I be the judge of what is serious to you that dream was the source of your worries and you were in pain because of it but more importantly you overcame all of that on your own there's no way you can be considered weak I'm so proud of you for fighting this with your own strength Arisha called Papa and then hugs her father she thinks in her mind I thought he wouldn't believe me and not only did he trust me without suspicion he even comforted me she said thank you

he asked what do you mean she answered for believing me he said I know my own daughter you wouldn't say something without a good reason just promise me one thing next time talk to me if something is on your mind I won't leave you to worry all alone she replied yes I'll tell you I promise I will after her father put her to sleep he sits on a chair and reminisces he tells in her mind when I saw her Blank Stare the light gone from her eyes it felt like my world was coming to an

end yeremia when I lost you I couldn't do anything and I almost lost our daughter in the same way perhaps Tia's dream wasn't just a nightmare she's a child who has heard the voice of God this too might mean something no even if it was just a nightmare it doesn't matter a night he thinks in his mind I thought she would give up since she was a frail child from birth I thought training might help her grow stronger that it wouldn't be bad for her to learn the sword I casually considered all of these things

from the the beginning looks like I'll need his help either way meanwhile in Borderlands Heron came and said your highness there's a message from the capital lady Arisha has safely returned to Monique Manor and it looks like she's gotten a lot better now the prince replied all right he thinks in his mind I suppose she's focusing on getting better she should have read that letter by now he tries to speculate was I mistaken about her I thought she was rejecting the royal family for other reasons I had suspected she was trying to prevent herself from

becoming the empress since with her right to the throne she can threaten the Royal Line both of us were trained in politics since we were very young that's why I said what I did it would be safe for you to be the queen instead of the empress but what was written in that letter was he thought to himself I never even considered another woman becoming my bride and even if someone else became the empress did she think all this time I'd do something that horrible what kind of person does she think I am all this

time time he then shouted loudly what did I even do Heron was standing there listening he suggested don't you think there's another possibility related to what was written in that letter the prince asked and what would that be Heron said the possibility that what was written in that letter was a lie he explained lady Arisa had everything ready as if it was normal but only the closest of subjects know what she knows the food preferences of the royal family are never told to Outsiders and that goes for Duchess arnia as she is is now a

member of House Rass a royal must never show any sign of like or dislike regarding what is on the table and no dish must be returned this is all done to prevent any attempts at poisoning but now lady Arisa is suddenly seen as an heir to the throne for her it would be a crime if she attempted to find out anything about you personally perhaps this was all part of her plan because she didn't want to be suspected of anything the prince said it's not like I believe everything that was written in that letter but

I know she's not the type of person who would try to trick others even if she's confused about her dreams in reality Heron replied I understand looks like I've said too much while remembering the past the prince thinks that's right you are not the type of person who would scheme in the shadows or take advantage of others because our Dynamic had changed I was anxious back then and that made me forget you were the one who approached me first while remembering the past the prince tells in his mind everyone around me were Nobles who lied

to each other lusted after what wasn't theirs and focused solely on maintaining their wealth my father didn't care about me and my mother would only stare at me with cold distant eyes the servant said next is your class on the art of social interaction with count as Angel after that vount joran will be lecturing on the history of the Empire then after your lessons the emperor would like you to make your way to Bell Palace the prince asked B Palace what for the servant said I do not know the reason I am here only to

deliver the message looking at him the prince thinks in his mind this servant recites my schedule like a machine I was foolish to expect a proper answer while walking to the Bell Palace he thinks but it's strange my father usually has no interest in what I do so I wonder what business he has with me today he suddenly bumps into someone while walking after regaining his balance he said what are you doing do not run around the palace like that you should be more careful orisa said I apologize looking at her the prince thinks in

his mind a young girl running around this massive Palace without a guardian what are her parents thinking as they started walking again the prince suddenly remembers something and turns towards her wait just now that child they both stopped and looks at each other looking at her the prince thinks silver hair she looks four or five years younger than me orisha asked Are You The Royal Prince he replied yes I am he thinks in his mind so this child is my future Arisa introduced herself I am Arisa L Monique greetings your highness his majesty the emperor

said I would meet you today Arisa grabbed Prince's hand and starts walking she said mother and father are waiting in the garden for you your highness come with Tia looking at her cheerful personality the prince thinks the nobles were greedy for power my mother despised me and my father ignored me my tutors constantly pressured me to be better but among them were the only ones who approached me with affection and without calculation Yia and that child the prince follows her to the Garden where her mother was present the prince tells in his mind her mature

Behavior makes me forget that she is still only 13 years old and she is so fragile that the shock from losing her mother was enough for her to lose her memory and I was the one who kept rejecting her after what happened that day in the end the one who made her fear me so much was me after some days Arisa met Duke Arin while her father was also present she greeted welcome Your Grace quote Duke Arin said it has been a while lady Arista her father said Tia I called you here today to talk

about the KN Squad you are aware that the commander of the first Squad comes from house R and that the commander of the second Squad comes from our house correct she answered yes of course he continued and it's tradition that the candidate for Commander learns how each Squad operates by becoming the aid for the commander of the other Squad Duke Arin said just like how my son is currently working under Maris Karen orisa nods and thinks in her mind I wonder why he's suddenly bringing this up her father said up until recently our family didn't

have an heir so there was no need to follow the tradition but things are different now Arisa quickly jumps and asked you mean could it be Marquis and Duke both looks at each other and grins Duke arant asked what do you think do you want to become my Squire and learn from me he added of course you'll have to pass the entrance exam but you should should be fine s told me that you've become much better at wielding a sword can you do it Arisha happily replied yes I'll do my best she thinks in her

mind I'll do it this is my chance to be acknowledged as the official heir of our family while preparing her Lena said my lady you should use this ribbon and here your belt orisha said A Lena pull my bangs back a bit she asked like this after that she said oh my you look great my lady it's so wonderful seeing you in a knight's uniform you look so dashing orisha said I'm still only a squire Lena excitedly said but you're still a knight it's too bad you're not in the second Squad still red looks good

on you too orisha thinks in her mind right even though I'm only a squire this is my first step as a knight at the Royal Palace other Knights greeted her hello good morning lady Arista while determined she thinks I'll be an amazing Aid and be acknowledged for sure standing outside the door she gulps and then knocks on the door come in she opens the door and said excuse me your grace I'll be joining your squad and working here starting today Duke Arin said oh you're finally here I've been waiting alongside the Duke a male and

a female Knight were also present looking at her Arisa wonders a female Knight who is she the Duke spoke good I see you've passed the exam a squire is still a knight you may call me command Commander from now on arestia she replied firmly yes commander then the Duke introduced the knights this is Sir sidin who was my aid until now and this is Squire letia aresa thought to herself then I'm Squire aresa the Duke continued sir Sudan will fill you in on all of your duties sir Sudan then said hello I am Sudan R

Dyan from the first Squad also Squire Leticia introduced herself and I'm Leticia suen I'm also in the first Squad nice to meet you Squire aresa arestia replied ah yes I'm aresa La Monique looking at her aresa thought so there are other women here besides me that makes sense but I never really thought about it I feel like I'm not welcome here then she remembered something wa to the end I think I've heard that name before then the Duke said well then I'll be on my way it's time for me to go on patrol you should

all get to work I'll leave it to you looking s stood in serious demeanor aresa thought to herself he might not be happy that a squire is suddenly taking over his job it won't be easy to adjust here as a knight after the Duke left Leticia took a breath of relief ha I'm finally free congratulations she put her hand on Sir Sudan's shoulder and said you must be happy now that someone is finally here to succeed you sir sudin who are looking happy said haha I wonder if this is all a dream he then looks

towards aresa and said said um oh right please excuse us I'm so glad that you're here Squire aresa arestia was still surprised by their Sudden Change in Behavior she replied pardon ah yes sir Sudan said I mean I sincerely welcome you to the first Squadron aresa replied I see I'm just happy that you're excited to have me sir suen replied excited you're my savior aresa aresa asked how could I be a savior he replied well you'll find out soon enough after working with the commander while remembering her past life Arosa thought oh that's true he's

not exactly a kind teacher she remembered the Duke's nagging that's completely wrong memories of a past life flashed before her aresa thought he doesn't look it but he's very strict learning from him was tough for me too she then asked are you excited to see me too Squire Laticia she joyfully replied of course I've heard so much about you I'm so honored to meet you in person aresa said yes I didn't think there'd be other women here Leticia replied oh that's right the second Squad only has men well there are a handful of women in

the first squad though you're the only one among the newcomers this year there aren't many after hearing that aresa replied I see aresa thinks in her mind she knows a lot about the other Knights too she must know many people then sir Sudan said now Squire aresa it's time to learn the ropes Leticia said I'll come with you too while learning the work aresa thought to herself being the aid of a night Commander requires a lot of work more than I had expected at the last aresa said yes I understand sir Sudan said this is

all new for you but you learn quickly at this rate we'll be almost done aresa said is that so Leticia then told sir sudin had a really tough time when he first became an aid watching him almost made me tear up Sir Sudan replied I don't want to hear that from someone who's still a squire Leticia smirking replied it's not that I can't become a knight I'm just postponing it I'll become one when I want to be sir suen countered that's just an excuse you keep failing because you're always late to the exam Leticia said

and I do that on purpose because I've realized the true benefits of being a squire no responsibilities now is the time to enjoy my life after hearing that s Sudan shouted what are you talking about and right in front of our new member you have the skills but you lack the motivation Leticia said I don't want to listen to a strict old man like you sir Sudan again shouted you should listen while looking at them bickering aresa chuckled she said you too seem really close sir Sudan replied oh well we've known each other since we

were young aresa said that's nice it must be great to work with a friend he replied really it's mostly tiring then Leticia spoke but you're right plus there are those who enter the night Squadron with family too just like you Squire aresa after hearing that aresa thought really will I get tired of always seeing Papa in the palace I can't imagine after suddenly remembering something aresa asked oh Squire Laticia do you happen to have a family member who is also a knight she thought her last name is Leen and she has Ashen hair Leticia replied

yes you must be acquainted with my brother in the second Squadron Arista remembered her father night so she's his sister wow they don't look alike at all except for their hair color looking at aresa fidgeting both sers sudin and Leticia thought she must be thinking how could they be related then sir Sudan said now since I'm done showing you the ropes how about we go to to the training ground Leticia said me too me too I want to help Squire aresa sers suan then said please don't spill any more ink or file the papers upside

down Leticia replied if Squire aresa gets a bad impression of me it's all your fault looking at them arestia giggled hehe she thought it must be nice to be with a friend meanwhile alandis was talking to a mysterious person while holding the letter alenis asked so your master wishes to meet with me the person replied yes that is correct my master has sent you numerous letters but you have yet to reply I was ordered to deliver your answer today alenis said hm I understand the person said then I'll be waiting outside for you to finish

writing your letter alenis said no need he burnt the letter and while showing to the person he said tell your master that this is my answer after that person left alenis saw him leave through the window he thought count haml he's part of the nobility faction it's obvious why he would want to secretly meet with someone from the opposing faction alenis said to himself how foolish it's useless to struggle when you're barely Staying Alive then he thought still I wonder why Tia hasn't replied to me it's been a while since she's returned to Monique Manor

I thought she would come visit me soon but she hasn't given me a single reply despite all the letters I've sent he asked himself what happened I'm just waiting for you I feel like I could reach out my hand and catch you I can see your smile and it looks like it could fade away at any second I miss you Tia my silver lady while he was thinking someone knocks on the door alenis asked who is it the voice called Allan are you there just a moment ago I saw someone leaving who are you talking

to after hearing that voice Alan d thought why is she here after all this time the voice Trails worried you barely ate anything today to are you sure you're not feeling sick Allan please open the door alenis finally responded why if I'm sick will you take care of me leave me alone and pay no attention to what I eat or who comes to visit me the frustration in his voice was palpable if you're worried that I might die in this manner or bring disgrace to our family don't The Voice replied Allan please don't be like

that I'm just worried about but he cuts her off if you want to worry about something worry about that weak brother of mine just go go back to my brother like you've always done after hearing that she steps back disheartened after she left Allen this size worri after all this time don't do something so meaningless he reminded himself don't mind her just think about Tia I've prepared a lot of stories for you and presents as well but when can I see you again as he was reading the book he saw a glimpse of aresa as

he quickly turns towards it there was nothing he wondered was it my imagination I shouldn't waste time I'll write another letter not too long after joining the KN Squad the emperor summoned aresa for an audience looking at the emperor aresa thinks I thought he'd tell me to stop studying with the Knights or maybe asked me to hurry up and become a royal but instead he simply asked how I was doing and didn't mention anything else the emperor asked so did Ru visit you she asked I heard he passed by the Monique estate arestia replied yes

he stopped by it before I returned to the capital I see there's a pause almost wistful aresa th to herself though I didn't see him off the emperor then asked it's going to be winter soon do you like winter lady aresa she replied yes I do I see that's different from his words Trail off aresa wonders different from who she then asked do you not like winter your majesty the emperor said ah it's nothing please forget my rambling she replied yes your majesty after the audience with the King aresa was thinking today his majesty seems

to have a lot on his mind but he didn't ask me any questions about becoming the heir of my family did he already talk with Papa turning towards the garden she said winter she thought regardless I'm very busy these days I have to stay focused there's a lot I need to learn as an aid and as the heir of house Monique I have to work hard as she was managing the docum oh Squire aresa you spelled something wrong here her fellow Squire Leticia points out aresa said you're right thank you Squire Leticia don't mention it

Leticia chuckled Arista appraised her you're very reliable Leticia grinned right she boasted I'm much more reliable than my brother I'm also much better at sword fighting sir sudin remarked shouldn't you wait and say that after you've actually become a knight they started arguing with each each other and aresa doesn't pay mind to them as she gets used to it after completing the work aresa reached home and jumps on her bed a so tired Lena suggested why don't you take a break tomorrow aresa replied I don't have time I may not be going to work but

there's a pile of things I need to study oh Lena you can just put those books on the table as her eyes gets heavy she thought I'm so sleepy did I forget anything she asked blinking her tired eyes Le were there any letters addressed to me Lena replied none my lady aresa asked really she thought Allen this didn't send anything today too I wonder if he's busy I should be the one to contact him first but I'm just postponing it he's my precious friend who supported me when I was having a hard time she resolves

I'll go see him later when I'm free before winter comes meanwhile the prince was in Borderlands he said to himself I should go back soon before winter comes Heron said well we'll be heading back earlier than expected will that be all right once we return to the capital the other countries will be quite aggressive didn't you come all the way here to avoid that mess with the future Empress he asked with Annoying smile the prince grumbled there was that problem he said yes but even without that we must head back now I have to return

now or else I'll be late after hearing his reply Heron thought I see there's a certain day during winter when he's like this I wonder if she knows Leticia was giving books to aresa be careful Squire aresa it's pretty heavy Leticia warned as she handed her a stack of books is this the last one Leticia asked aresa replied yes these are all the books the commander requested you two really helped me a lot next time please visit the manor I'll make sure to welcome you well if you're inviting us of course we'll go they laughed

as they talked suddenly Eric IA stopped noticing a familiar head of red hair passing by that red hair could it be caran she wondered as she ran towards him lady aresa Leticia called her from behind he was Cajun Cajun notices her oh lady aresa she turned to see cun oh ciran she wasn't expecting him Cajun said ah your Squire aresa now congratulations on joining the squad thank you she replied with a small smile she thought right of course he wouldn't be in the palace Leticia asked from behind Squire aresa what is it as they gets

close to her Leticia greeted oh sir Cajun it's been a while Cajun were you two helping Squire aresa I trust you'll do well my father must be very relieved as well they replied we're honored aresa took a moment then asked um how is caran is he doing well these days oh s Cajun paused considering I'm not sure I'd say he's doing well aresa gets worried did something happen Cajun replied nothing is wrong he's training every day like usual but perhaps he's just working very hard I don't know what it is but there's a sort of

desperation about him still he won't tell me so I'm not sure desperation aresa echoed she thought I see carian is trying his best as well I'm sure he's training hard to become a knight then Leticia said said sir Cajun we're sad we don't see you more you should stop by the first Squad more often Cajun chuckled I'd like to but I'm the aid for the second Squad now Leticia insisted but still sir suen intervened don't be stubborn you should already know how busy it is being an aid just by looking at me Leticia said isn't

that because you lack Talent oh come on you should already know how busy it is being an aid just by looking at me Cajun said later when I return to the first Squad we'll be spending so much time together you'll get sick of each other yes sir of course they all replied aresa reflected on her friends alenis caran and even me were all busy so we won't have time to see each other that often but there's nothing that can be done arista's father called Lena and said wait a moment as she was carrying the letter

she replied ah yes your grace he asked is that another letter addressed to T yes from House verid Lena replied with a slight hesitation he took it immediately and said I'll take it Lena complied yes her father puts alenis letter in a drawer when should I tell the young lady about this Lena asked uncertainly he said there's no need to inform her keep quiet about it Lena thought uncomfortably I wonder if this is really all right her father puts the letter in the drawer and locks it he wrote a letter to alenis sir alenis I'll

be direct I've i' like you to refrain from contacting my daughter I'm sure you're aware she is still the fiance of the royal Prince now that she has debuted in society I'm worried she'll be involved in meaningless rumors as her father I had to send this letter out of concern you have good sense so I know you'll understand what I mean Kiran La Monique allendis crumpled the letter saying so you plan to interfere with me Marquis he slams his hands on the table after gritting his teeth he quickly turns and said to hell with him

he toppled all the books in Anger saying looks like you want to separate us what refrain from contacting her she's still the prince's fiance so what Butler he shouted yes young Master the butler appeared at his side alenis ordered send someone to house Hamill now and make sure no one knows of this as the butler hurried off allendis muttered bitterly I was trying to respect your wishes since you're my lady's father Tia you are a member of House Monique a family that swears loyalty to the royal family that's why I was going to stay quiet

under the influence of the royal order but if this is how you're going to be then I'll change my plans I won't just stand by while she's being taken away from me hm did the ink run out Arista muttered checking her pen she opens the drawer and glanced at the stack of letters allendis had sent her while she was at the Moni State she was wondering he had suddenly stopped riding Lena announced cheerfully now then my lady it's time for tea I'll go prepare some for you oh Lena hold on a moment arestia interrupted are

there no letters for me today as well specifically from house verita aresa thought alenis sent me a letter every week even when I was at the Monique estate it's odd that he suddenly stopped She said to Lena can you just make sure and check that it hasn't gotten mixed up with someone else's letters Lena looked hesitant th there's really none my lady she stammered a M's eyes narrowed slightly you're hiding something aren't you I won't get mad so tell me the truth oh L Vena hesitated before saying but I was told not to say anything

Lena arista's tone was gentle but firm Lena confessed the truth is you did get letters several letters in fact but aresa murmured I knew it Lena continued the marqua said not to tell you about them the Marquis said that you wanted this that you had to focus on your work for a while I'm terribly sorry Lena explained she thought he said I wanted this Papa she then said Lena I need to go out oh where will you be going my lady Lena asked surprised she replied to the verita manor moments later aresa arrived at the

verita state Alisa's mother greeted her oh lazy aresa she said while bowing politely greetings Your Grace please excuse me for visiting without prior noce came the warm reply do not worry I'm actually glad that you're here you're here to see alen dis right I'll have someone show you the way as she was led through the hallways arisa's mind raced I wonder why Papa went so far as to hide his letters I always knew he wasn't pleased with me being friends with allendis but still hiding his letters without telling me that's not like him asterisk reaching

the door she knocked she heard a voice from inside go away I remember saying that no one is allowed to enter this room aresa froze her heart was sinking what was that just now was that really ais's voice I've never heard him use such a cold harsh tone she felt a Pang of guilt realizing that he might be upset perhaps thinking that she'd ignored all his letters alenis turned and said didn't you hear me I told you to get out he started but then stopped abruptly as he caught sight of her Tia Allen is stared

disbelief etched across his face he muttered bitterly right now I'm hallucinating if I'm seeing things like this I suppose it means I've been working too hard lately or perhaps I miss you so much that I'd even come up with an illusion like this he continued you know Tia I heard you had returned but you haven't contacted me at all have you forgotten about me or perhaps you still can't forgive me after hearing that aresa called out uh Allan it's me Allan is stand stands up in shock he walks to her in disbelief Tia alenis called

as he moved closer is it is it really you he extends his hand to touch her but aresa backs away a little then she quickly realized oh no why did I try to avoid him he must be hurt she then his hand and said Allan I'm so late aren't I I was going to visit you but things got so hectic that I didn't have time to spare I'm so sorry will you forgive me alenis pulls her toward W him and embraced her Tia he breathed Tears start sculling from his eyes Tia it's really you Allan

are you crying aresa asked softly noticing his Misty Eyes he said I thought I'd never see you again she replied that wouldn't happen she thought looks like we've been apart for too long after a few moments aresa asked you seemed really busy are you sure I'm not intruding he assured her intruding you're always welcome oh take a seat e first I have something I wanted to give you all right aresa said settling down and glancing around at the stacks of books he has so many books here is he researching something she notices a familiar letter

on his table just then Allen is returned holding a jar sorry to keep you waiting Tia oh it's all right she replied she then asked what's this Alan inside the box was a delicate flowers unlike any she had ever seen he explained it's it's called Blue mellow and it only blooms on our family's estate wow it's so pretty Arista exclaimed admiring the vibrant blue tea alenis said isn't it but that's not all he Juiced the lemon on the tea and it clear changes from Blue to Pink it gradually changed from Blue to a lovely shade

of pink while amazed aresa asked how did this happen it's amazing it turned pink allendis replied I thought you might enjoy this so I'm happy the boxes a gift for you so take it with you later she asked but isn't this rare you said it only grows on the verita estate he replied it's all right I prepared this especially for you really thank you Alan she beamed Allen just stared at her what's wrong she asked noticing his gaze he replied oh it's nothing it's just I've never seen you smile like that before so brightly really

is it weird she asked a bit self-conscious ious he replied not at all but don't smile like that just anywhere what if someone Falls for you after seeing your smile Arista replied with a chuckle gosh Allen I see you still enjoy making those jokes they continued chatting for long until it gets evening then glancing at the time she gasped oh look at the time I should get going yes it's gotten quite late Alan disagreed Arista asked as she was about to leave so won't you be training anymore he replied yes well pretty much I won't

quit completely but I won't be able to spend as much time on the sword as I used to I have to help my father now then were all those books for work you had so many in that room she asked he confirmed yes they for my father she advised I see don't overwork yourself Allan I'll write to you soon as she was getting on Carriage alenis said Tia I'd like to see you off myself may I as they were on Carriage aresa thought from now on Allan and I won't be crossing paths so often I

was expecting this and still I can't help feeling a bit blue she also recalled seeing a letter inside his room the color of that letter was as they reached the gates aresa turned to Alanis thank you for coming all this way Allan he said it's really dark now you should hurry inside as they were saying their goodbyes the Maris was waiting for her you've finally returned Tia Papa she gasped asked in Surprise she hadn't expected him to be home so soon alenis said greetings Your Grace it's been a while sir allendis her father said curtly

he asked Tia are you just now returning after seeing sir allendis she replied yes letun go inside the Marquis ordered he then said thank you for bringing my daughter home sir alenis but you'll have to excuse me it's too late to invite you inside it's fine I understand goodbye IA I'll see you next time alenis said aresa replied take care Alan then they head inside as alenis was standing there watching them after they reached inside the beding her father turned to her his expression Stern Tia I need to have a word with you she thought

he must be upset that I left without finishing my work she then said I'm sorry for leaving without telling you papa she apologized but something weighed on her mind something she needed to ask Papa I also need to ask you something aresa asked I heard you were keeping all the letters alenis had sent to me yes I was her father admitted she demanded but why I already knew that you didn't like him very much but you've been watching over us without a word until now so why after all this time were you suddenly taking all

the messages that were sent to me you didn't tell me anything Papa her mind raced and she recalled the silver letter she'd seen earlier that letter must must have been from Papa she then questioned how could you that's so cruel she thought what did he say to Alan Allan thought we would never meet again he even cried because of it her father sighed Tia things may change in the future but right now you're still the prince's fiance you're different from the daughters of other noble families I'm sure you know that rumors will spread when you

meet with others that's why I taught you since you were young to keep a distance but somehow you naturally befriended sir allendis and Sir caran although I was worried about the possible rumors I didn't stop you because I saw how happy you were spending time with him he took a momentarily pause then continued but then I heard that sir Allen dis visited you the day before the prince's Coming of Age ceremony and you suddenly banned him from here after that you seem to be suffering since the prince is not here in the capital there are

many eyes watching if you're going to be hurt by someone instead of being comforted then there's no reason for me to overlook you two getting close Arista looked down while thinking and said still you didn't have to hide the letters like that he nodded a hint of guilt shadowing his features you're right I do admit that was my fault I hid them because I didn't know what the letters contained you were finally better so I was worried you might get hurt again I was happy to see you working so hard with such a bright smile

and I ended up getting too greedy I'm sorry Tia her father looked at her with a newfound warmth and Arista took a deep breath her frustration easing slightly right if I think about it it's partly my fault for making him worry so much she apologized I'm sorry for being childish her father then said I left the letters unopened would you like to take them aresa shakes her head and said you can give them to me later when you think it's fine to do so as aresa was about to leave her father called her Tif don't

you despise me for doing this she chuckled and said you know very well that could never happen then she closes the door and left her father suddenly remembered her mother you know very well that could never happen he gave a small smile and looked outside the window he called Jeremiah meanwhile alenis as he was leaving in the carriage he said to himself while imagining aresa Tia you've changed so much I wonder what happened to you while I wasn't by your side but no matter what happens you're still my precious lady he remembered her her calm

and quiet presence her long soft silver hair her golden eyes filled with warmth and affection all of that for I have been captivated by you since the day I swore that lie suddenly a loud call broke the moment his Royal Highness will be returning his Royal Highness will be returning all the knights began to gather standing in formation to greet the returning Prince arista's heart skipped a beat he's returning not long after the start of winter news of the prince's return turned from inspecting the Border spread quickly the palace was a buzz with his earlier

than expected arrival how the knights gathered to welcome the prince aresa and her Knights were also there I heard he was inspecting the borders to reorganize the troops a knight murmured will there be changes to the Army we recently recruited more Knights another replied it's possible there will be a big change what do you think Squire aresa she replied yes ha oh well I think the Prince noticed aresa in the crowd as she was talking to her fellow Knights the prince went to his father and said I've returned father good work my son his father

replied how was the inspection the prince reported I found some problem areas in our policies that will need restructuring additionally our Aid wasn't enough to resolve all of the issues brought about by the recent drought I believe that we'll need immediate attention his father instructed I see then later we will discuss your inspection report to along with the current status of the borders and their policies make sure you are well prepared the prince replied yes Father oh and since you're back you should relax the king advised with a gentle smile a nice walk around the

palace might do you some good the prince responded understood while he was walking in the palace Heron suggested your highness perhaps you should rest first even for just a moment the prince replied before that there are some things I must take care of arrange a meeting with the council asked the chancellor to set a date as soon as possible however Heron filled in keep the day after tomorrow open correct the prince replied yes the attendant hesitated so I wasn't mistaken she joined the night Squad the prince saw aresa walking in the night uniform with her

fellow Squires the prince wondered so I wasn't mistaken did she join the night's Squad father probably told me to take a walk around the palace because of her really the prince cut him off let her be she probably doesn't remember as the prince started walking aresa also noticed him she gets startled ANS accidentally dropped her books Squire aresa you dropped your books Leticia exclaimed picking them up for her oh sorry she muttered Leticia added you've been acting strange lately do you have something on your mind or are you tired arestia answered brushing it off no

I'm all right she thought to herself it's fine of of course I'd run into him this is the palace I'm nervous because it's been a while it's just I haven't seen him since the night I collapsed at night unable to sleep aresa decided to take a walk around the manor as she wandered through the quiet Halls she noticed something odd is someone else still up at this hour she wondered the rooms in this hallway are all empty why would someone leave a door open she peaked inside and saw someone Standing Alone lost in thought she

thought someone's in here why won they be here at this hour could it be an intruder she hid herself at a corner the person spoke it's already been 7 years since you left Jeremiah it was arista's father he murmured unaware of arisa's presence few that surprised me it's just Papa she thought relieved her father continued looking at her painting our time together was so short yet the time were apart continues on have you been watching Jeremiah our daughter has grown up so much Jeremiah that's the name of my mother who passed away aresa realized with

a Pang of sadness her father continued I'm sorry the day you left is tomorrow but I don't think I can bring Tia with me this year as well she's still a delicate child and I'm afraid to have her remember you he looked at the delicate flower offering it as if to an unseen presents do you like the gift I brought you it's your favorite flower I had hoped to show you how precious our daughter is now she's resembling you more and more and now our child wants to inherit this family his gaze grew distant I

wanted our daughter to live a peaceful life at least I wanted it as a way to atone for you who had to leave like that I didn't want to pass down the curse that runs in the blood of this family arestia stiffened at his words curse aresa thought the blood vow between house Monique and the Imperial family is a double-edged sword I know father doesn't want to talk about it but I didn't think he hated it so much that he'd call it a curse her father said I've always agreed with his Majesty's ideals and worked

tirelessly to bring them to life I've even stained my hands with blood several times for those ideals you probably knew that very well I don't want Tia to bloody her small hands I want her to be free aresa felt touched after hearing that Papa her father continued I couldn't fall asleep and I ended up just coming here to talk to you I should go now I'll be back tomorrow and after that he walks away aresa thought to herself tomorrow is the day my mother died I thought Papa didn't want to talk about mother out of

grief but it was because he was worried about me she went to where her father was standing and looks at the painting it's too dark for me to see her face clearly sanqua camelas I think they were my mother's favorite flower my mother passed away when I was six but I don't remember anything all I know is how sadly I cried but even though it happened when I was young why can't I recall anything at all have I been too ignorant this whole time she remembered yes even before time was turned back I think I

talked about my mother huh just then she almost remembered something the next morning Father greeted me warmly good Morning Tia she replied good morning her father said you're wearing your uniform are you going to work she replied yes I didn't complete my work yesterday to are you going to work too Papa he shook his head gently I'm taking the day off today take care oh she thought perhaps he might be visiting mother's grave today is that day but somehow I couldn't bring myself to mention it Papa doesn't want me to inherit house Monique yet he

still supports me I wonder how he feels as she focused on her duties Commander approached Squire aresa why yes yes commander she stammered startled he suggested you'll get a headache from looking at those papers all day why not get some fresh air outside aresa replied my apologies I lost focus and she thought he noticed that I was lost in thought he chuckled sensing her distraction it's fine go take a break the exit is right behind you in case you didn't know I'll return immediately she mumbled while embarrassed after she left the Duke said to himself

gee and here I thought she didn't know Kyan must have been really obvious about it of course it's difficult to focus on a day like this as she walked out her thoughts swirled today was the day of my mother's death a subject too painful to speak of the curse in our blood and the inheritance of the family name she remembered her father's word I want her to be free she thought I didn't know Papa was troubled by these things he has always quietly supported me standing by my side perhaps that's why in the past father

sent me to the the Imperial family he didn't want me to be bound to the name of house Monique thinking about it blurred her thoughts even more as she reached the garden she said it's been a while since I came to this Garden I keep returning here when I'm lost in thought I guess I can't break that habit the sky is cloudy I wonder if it'll rain her thought wondered I know I shouldn't come here but just for today just for a moment then she saw the prince coming while holding flowers both of them saw

each other and were surprised to see each other panicky aresa said greetings Prince Ruess future son of the Empire she thought to herself what am I doing don't just stare at him like that he said oh ah yes it's been a while he asked what brings you here she said please excuse me I was simply taking a short break he observed judging by your uniform you must be in the first Squadron she replied yes your highness after a pause he asked then are you not having any nightmares these days after hearing that her mind raised

nightmares does does he know about the past that I spoke of with Papa and Allan is he trying to test me did he hear someone talking about the daughter of house Monique having nightmares or did I mumble something in my sleep when I collapsed at our estate she gets stiff and thinking nightmares what is he talking about how should I answer him the prince Shrugged it off no let's just forget what I said she agreed yes as a moment of awkward silence began the prince thought I should probably say something aresa thought the same I

should just say anything and leave both of them thought this is so awkward I don't know what to say suddenly a maid came and said your highness all right he replied as the maid approached the maid said shall I place these in your chamber as usual the prince said yes aresa thought as usual aresa began hesitantly your highness do you like Cena chelas I heard my mother also liked that flower she did he responded simply aresa gets surprised she did she asked did you know my mother but he spoke I could ask you a similar

question how did you know about that flower I thought you weren't aware of the anniversary of her death she replied feeling embarrassed I learned of it by chance a while ago she thought this is shameful he already knew that I hadn't known about the day the prince said I see as a gust of wind past the prince looked a little distant looking at him aresa thought what does that expression mean he seemed somehow different from before suddenly it started snowing aresa thought wow the snowflakes are so big and beautiful and quite pretty the prince stared

at her watching the snow fall gently around them he then asked will you walk with me for a bit as they walked the crunch of snow and rustling of grass filled the silence Arista thought to herself this place hasn't been tended to in a while it's strange that the emperor's Garden would be so neglected if it continues like this everything will Wilt the prince suddenly said how odd she agreed unknowingly yes that's she then realized and said pardon he asked glancing at a Barren tree in front of them he said this tree it should be

blooming with flowers around this time of year aresa asked have you seen this tree in bloom before he replied I saw it once when I was little occasionally it blooms but it's a bit irregular its flowers aren't particularly impressive but their silver color makes them look very elegant she said I see I wonder that they look like suddenly she realized just now did he really talk to me about a flower then the prince asked H have you heard of the Dela flower they say that if a couple shares the white flowers from a single Branch

their love will come true she replied surprised by his knowledge oh yes that flower blooms in the summer right he said yes it resembles this tree somewhat aresa thought the Dela flower has six pure white petals that open up shilly when it blooms it's praised for being as beautiful as someone who has fallen in love similar to how this tree's flowers look she said imagining it really it must be beautiful looking at her smile the prince said you finally look healthy now with a gentle smile turning back toward the palace aresa said pardon the prince

said we should return she replied ah yes your highness as the prince was walking away he said you look very much like your mother later standing in the hallway she tried to open the door that was locked she thought it's locked today I wanted to see her portrait again perhaps someone else might know she noticed Lena and sirle talking to each other Arista walks to them and said sir Le I'd like to ask you something he replied yes my lady what is it about she asked sir Le you've seen my mother before right he replied

you mean the late martianus yes of course I knew her she asked Ben do you think I look like my mother he paused his gaze growing thoughtful the Marquis wouldn't have said that who told you this my lady she told it was actually the prince who mentioned it sir Le then said so that's what happened I suppose His Highness remembers this day as well he added quietly his gaze distant with the memory His Highness was present when the martianus passed away aresa was shocked the prince was that close to my mother this is my first

time hearing that neither the prince nor Papa ever mentioned it sir Le looked at her kindly you probably don't remember that day when you learned of her passing you cried so much that you went into shock the marquist comforted you when he arrived but you could have fallen terribly ill after that he forbade anyone from mentioning the marianist in front of you she concluded so that's why father didn't tell me about the anniversary of Mother's death but how did the prince end up witnessing my mother's passing sirle added you look very much like her aresa

murmured almost as if lost and thought pardon sir Le said you do resemble the late marianist except for the color of your hair you look very much alike he replied softly studying her face then aresa said sir League it's late now you should hold rest Lena added let's go to your chamber together my lady she hesitated sensing that she should impress him with any more questions she thought to herself there was so much I still didn't know what kind of woman was she how did she meet my father why did she pass away will I

get to know someday about their story caran was still training hard in Winter few this isn't working out his brother who was looking at him said saying you need to calm down I'm aren't you cold wearing only that in this weather caran replied what I'm busy so if you've got something to say hurry up his brother said busy it's still pretty early in the morning don't bother me if you've got nothing to say caran replied exasperated his brother agreed fine fine I just thought you'd be curious to hear what happened to lady aresa but it

looks like you're not interested he said knowingly that caran will react caran grabbed his shoulder as he was about to leave what happened to her he smirking asked want to know caran shot back suddenly I don't want to know anymore he coaxed come on hear me out seems like she started the lessons to inherit house Monique she's working as a squire in the first Squadron caran remembered her words I will follow in the footsteps of my family her words echoed in his mind he said with a bright smile I see she's a squire now his

brother added she's wearing the red uniform of our first Squadron you know what that means right so you should stop and carian cut him off while feeling pumped all right I can't just sit here and stand back after hearing that I'm training all day today wait what sane what are you talking about you're already his called after him but he was already gone as the year came to an end the Imperial Palace was bustling with appointments and transfers filling every division with new recruits due to policy changes initiated after the crown Prince's report On the

Border the entire Palace seemed invigorated by this new wave of talent sir suen asked while groaning meanwhile you gave up on your official Knighthood promotion again he added what a lazy Soul Leticia smirking said bis Leticia suen only wishes for a free and happy life Sudan added what are you talking about I saw you groaning from a hangover Leticia stopped him by pushing a book at his face watch that mouth of yours she shouted covering Arista ears my dear Squire aresa shouldn't have to hear such terrible gossip Sudan shouted if you know it's terrible shouldn't

you consider stopping first Leticia answered there will be more squadrons soon so why be so worried aresa said but I heard the promotion exam was really difficult this year sud and told the promotion exam was difficult even in the past when there were five squadrons aresa thought there are only three squadrons now so the competition is fierce yet people say the exam is easier these days I have to keep my focus I'm a squire now but I'll be the laughing stock of the squad if I fail to become a proper Knight then Leticia said by

the way I passed by the administration earlier I heard there's a new genius there the Chancellor's youngest son arestia realized it's Alan so he's working in administration now Leticia told the youngest officer not only among the new recruits but also among those in the entire Imperial office he must really be a genius as they say after hearing that aresa smiles Allan really is amazing he's the youngest Administration officer suddenly they heard footsteps oh the commander is here Leticia exclaimed Sudan said move your lazy self over there commanding officer strowed into view as caran was asking

come on father let me the Duke replied A no is a no maybe Cajun but you're too young oh carian aresa exclaimed in Surprise noticing him for the first time aresa he stammered looking flustered she asked why are you here wait I mean it's been a while caran looks at her stepping forward he grabs her hand saying great timing letun talk about that later I have some business with her the Duke Shrugged it off right let's talk about it at home Squire aresa you may leave for the day he added just go aresa said pardon

wait but I'm Commander I'll be go slam the door shut behind them sir suan asked Commander was that he replied my youngest son I apologize for his rude Behavior sir suan said it's fine sir he murmured looks like they're as close as the rumors say as the rumors say the commander responded frowning Leticia explained I heard they spent a lot of time together at the Monique estate and even trained together some people say they're more than just friends the commander slams his fist on the table watch what you say Squire aresa is the future fiance

of the Crown Prince yes commander our apologies Commander the others stammered backing away the Duke thought I knew there'd be gossip after sending San to the estate but now with more people in the Imperial Palace word will spread faster no one must know that lady aresa wishes to inherit her family's house her giving up her role as the future Empress would greatly affect the Imperial faction anyway we have to wait until his majesty makes a decision he sighed deep in thought I must tell carian not to be so Rash caran where are you taking me

aresa called feeling a mix of excitement and curiosity she hadn't seen caran in a while and as she glanced up at him she realized he seemed even taller after they stopped it's been a while he greeted her aresa replied yes how have have you been carian carian said well so so I guess she asked Soo that's so generic caran said so what you're still short I see is that what I should say and that's unnecessary she replied rolling her eyes at him is that so carian suddenly leaned closer causing her to Flinch she said hey

carian why are you getting closer wait hold on you're too close a flick to her forehead interrupted her protest oh what was that for she demanded rubbing the spot clearing his throat caran smirked don't be so rude to your Superior she wondered huh Superior he explained after passing the test didn't you become a squire she replied oh yes it's all thanks to your lessons he said right and you know that a squire will always be a below an official night right he patted her head and said so then I'll be your Superior from now on

aresa was surprised what I don't believe it car and did you that's right he announced proudly I'll be officially nighted next month arisa's eyes widened in Surprise wait he's already a knight but this year's exam was supposed to be difficult I knew he were a genius but I didn't realize he were that good she trailed off genuinely impressed finally realizing how amazing I am Caren replied basking in her admiration now show me some respect my cute little Junior she huffed but you're not my Superior yet and remember I joined the Squadron before you so that

technically makes me your Superior carian laughed I was wondering where you were going with that but the one who is higher in rank and better should be the superior aresa turns and started walking As You Wish then he called her huh hey are you upset he said Really Are you seriously angry I was just joking since it's been so long hey look you're no different from when I last saw you back at the estate hey wait for me aresa chuckled thinking he's grown taller but he's still the same person I feel like I turn into

a little child whenever I'm with caran perhaps I'm being affected by his personality he's like a flame that burns freely carian said you haven't had dinner yet right there's a good restaurant that I know I'll let you come with me Arista asked huh today caran said you're too skinny if you're a knight you should eat more and put on some weight look your wrist angles like a twig one should always have a full belly you better eat everything a voice interrupted I agree that sounds good may I join Arisa called Allan dis alenis replied good

to see you sir carian carian said there's no way I'm paying for you all right so Shu aresa said I heard that you're an officer in the administration now congratulations he replied thank you they did say this was exceptional since I still have not celebrated my Coming of Age aresa thought that's right I forgot since I've been so close to them they're both Geniuses of the century but huh wait before his coming of age in the past they became an officer and a night only after becoming adults and even back then they were still the

youngest in history now they're still 16 years old it's happened a lot faster here alenis said by the way sir carian we're in the Imperial Palace and there are a lot of eyes here shouldn't you be more careful you attract attention wherever you go and I'm sure a certain somebody will be disgruntled by your actions caran replied what stop nagging us about something unnecessary again aresa said allendis is right we should be careful carian said TSK this is fine between friends don't be so uptight aresa wondered what's with this atmosphere she asked um caran where

is that famous restaurant you mentioned alenis filled in right aresa wants to go lead the way I'm quite curious about your pallet caran said so you plan on following us huh as they were having dinner there was a rivalry between allendis and caran the prince was coughing continuously huran said as he pours tea you've been coughing more today should I summon the Royal doctor perhaps you should get examined the prince replied I'm fine Heron said I'd say it's probably because of your sudden walk in the garden a few days ago it was snowing the prince

questioned is that why Heron said you usually never go outside during this time of the year so that was unusual what changed your mind he replied while thoughtful well I suppose it is indeed unusual I wonder why I did that his mind was thinking about aresa that child I never thought she'd talk to me again with such surprise curiosity and Joy showing on her face actually I wanted to ask if what was written in that letter was true or if it was just a dream I saw something that I thought I'd never see again so

I thought that I should at least tell you something anything he said to himself I don't like winter it reminds me of the one who was sick and also of you meanwhile the king announced right I suppose it's time I made a decision summon everyone tomorrow we will discuss the matter of my son and lady arestia and and of what is to follow e the next day alenis greeted her hello you're not wearing your uniform today allendis and caran noticed her casual attire she explained allendis caran I'm not working today I'm here for an audience

with his majesty alenis responded with a casual nod I see she then asked what about you caran you haven't been kned yet car inside my father keeps dragging me here saying I should get to know everyone alenis said all right aresa do you have some free time at the end of the year my mother is planning to hold a garden party a garden party in this season aresa asked surprised Allan this explained looks like she wants to show off our Greenhouse since everything is growing so well this year she hasn't decided on the date yet

but we'll be sending out invitations to other houses soon you should definitely look forward to it aresa smiled all right do invite me I'll make sure to attend caran grinned you'll definitely be the shortest person there then turning to carian alenis added you're invited too sir carian then atista went to have an audience with the King carian narrowed his eyes suspiciously what are you scheming Allan Shrugged playfully that's none of your business caran reminded alenis you haven't forgotten that you owe me one right for that letter Allan disagreed of course that's why I'm holding myself

back right now otherwise I would have broken the hand that just touched my lady's hair caran smirked so you still think creepy thoughts even when you're smiling I see do you seriously believe I would just let you break my hand caran challenged meanwhile a conversation continued regarding lady arista's role the king mentioned I see lady aresa has adjusted to her work as a squire then I'm sure you must be concerned about the rumors regarding your son too the Duke Arin replied not at all your majesty I don't really mind the king commented oh look at

you have you also set your sights on the young lady the Duke nodded well I can't say I'm not at all interested but Kiran isn't someone who would stay quiet about his daughter right that's true the king replied thoughtfully since krian likely won't marry again it's not a bad idea to have lady aresa inherit the family's name Duke Ruth filled in your majesty but letting those rumors run wild could affect our party and unsettled the Nobles it's already been 25 years since you were crowned and sub dued the knights and those who opposed you duke

Arin said right it's only a matter of time for them to rise again everyone knows how deep the loyalty is between the Imperial family and House of Monique taking back an engagement that has already been announced will surely be a good Target for them it's obvious they'll try to push one of their own to be the crown Prince's fiance word has already spread so people will surely talk about it during the New Year celebration Duke ruse suggested it is time to make a decision regarding the engagement between the Crown Prince and lady aresa even if

Lady aresa chooses to give up her position as the future Empress we must prevent any damage towards the honor of the Imperial family the king said glancing toward his son right then let's hear from him directly what are your thoughts on the matter my son the Crown Prince looked hesitant I he notices smoke in the glass window what is that before he could finish a messenger burst in exclaiming pardon me Your Majesty there's an emergency In The West Wing meanwhile aresa and his friends also heard the commotion the servants were rushing in hurry aresa wondered

did something happen she asked one of the servants what's this commotion he replied my lady my lady please do not head towards the West Wing of the the palace grounds a fire has broken out at ver Palace arista's heart sank at ver Palace she asked where the servant told in the garden please do not approach that area her heart sank even more the garden no why there of all places that Garden that's where the tree is she remembered the prince words once in a while it blooms but it's a bitter regular its flowers may not

be impressive but they're very elegant the silver flowers she remembered the silver flowers her heart was in shambles meanhow Allen as said a fire in the empress's garden caran added there aren't many people there so it could happen alenis filled in the knights and other subjects in the palace will put it out so we should stay here in the main Palace however aresa couldn't stay still she dashed towards the place alenis and caran watched as aresa suddenly dashed toward the palace grounds alenis called out after her aresa where are you going hey as she dosed

towards the place she recalls lately that Garden hasn't been looked after very well in such dry weather as today if the fire isn't put out right away it might spread too quickly she concluded I might stand out again by going there like this but but I have to at least see it both alenis and caran followed her but lost her caran bewildered muttered we lost her darn it where is ver Palace anyway outside the palace grounds were in chaos as servants and knights scrambled to bring water bring more water shouted a knight the fire is

spreading have the other Knights arrived yet aresa reached the garden and was get shocked seeing everything on fire looking at the fire she thought before returning to this time and until now this garden and this tree have always comforted me she prayed please don't disappear no she remembered a scene from her past life when she was 15 before she became the empress the emperor said while walking towards the tree my dear come closer he said my dear do you know what type of tree this is arestia replied no I've never seen this tree before your

majesty the emperor told this tree itself is a rare species but its flowers are even rarer aresa said if it's so rare I wonder what type of flowers will Bloom the emperor said even I've only ever seen it bloom once this tree is unique since it blooms in Winter its silver flowers glow beautifully under the Moonlight Arista remembered before I went back in time when I was 13 I heard this tree never bloomed after it was burned in a fire in the verp palis back then I didn't think much of it and moved on but

the next year when I was growing weary from negligence after marrying the Crown Prince I saw that tree again I should have been enjoying my life yet I was growing weary just like that tree since then I would visit that tree whenever I felt so badly hurt that it was hard to endure I thought that perhaps if this nameless tree bloomed one day I might also be able to escape from my humiliating and heartbroken days I took great care of that tree waiting every day for it to bloom but I never once saw it happen

even up until the day I died at age 17 back to the present she reached in front of the tree and thinks if this continues the tree will die she noticed the silver buds at the tree branches a knight Came Calling Lady aresa it's dangerous here the fire will spread this way soon you must leave the garden now please come this way maids and other servants were carrying water buckets to the fire suddenly aresa turns and starts commanding the servants do not rush yourselves everyone are you also incompetent that this is enough to startle you

all servants remove any leaves in the path of the fire and pour dirt all Maids gather every piece of cloth in her Palace and soak them tell those downstairs we need more water maids and servants were shocked by aresa my lady how did you aresa continued why have you not moved will you start moving after the emperor's Garden crumbles to ashh Knights what are you all standing there for dig and cover the the Flames with dirt everyone acknowledged yes my lady understood meanwhile alandis and caran also came to the site looking at aresa alandis starts

calling her aresa what are you doing as the knights and servants were busy coming down the fire a night stopped allendis from going forward he said you must stay here allendis shouted let go Tia caran and alenis rushed forwards towards aresa but were stopped by fire Arisha father and both Dukes also reached at the fire looking at the fire her father shouted no Tia get out of there Tia the Crown Prince also reached there meanwhile aresa thought I think I heard Papa's voice but I don't have time to spare right now this must be the

fire that happened when I was 13 before I traveled back in time we can save it now it's not too late as she rushed towards the tree the Knight called her my lady be careful Embers of Fire reached Arista everyone who was looking at her worriedly shouts her name Tia Arista Arista quickly grabs the knight's sword and with a swing she pushed away Embers of fire everyone was shocked at her action she bravely pushed away the fire after a while when the fire calmed down she thinks the Flames have died down few I'm sure everyone

can handle this by themselves now then she noticed the emperor standing with others she quickly bowed and greeted him your majesty I didn't realize you were here I ended up showing you such discourtesy the emperor remarked no you did well aresa added please punish me as you see fit for ordering the people of this Palace without your permission your majesty she wondered how much did they see were they here from the beginning the emperor said ha what to do aresa said your majesty the emperor continued because of Marquis krian I was thinking of giving up

but the more I see you the more I think of would be a Pity to do so caran and alenis were shocked for a moment he then said I apologize Kiran but I think I must watch your daughter for a while longer her father said your majesty the emperor added there's still some time until her kage regardless of the decision right today's meeting never happened you are all dismissed everyone agreed yes your majesty as the emperor was leaving he said really it would be a Pity to give up on such a youth then we'll be

off now you did well lady aresa after the emperor left alenis and his father doesn't say a thing caran shows his disapproval TSK darn it his father said carian settle down then aresa said to her father Papa I'm sorry for making things end up like this she asked are you upset her father leaned and hugged her he said it's all right you didn't get hurt he added why do you take after her so much Eric Isa concluded perhaps perhaps I should have turned a blind eye to the fire that might have been best if I

wanted to avoid getting more attention from the emperor but I don't regret this because I saved you then she looked towards the tree and said will you show me your flowers one day the prince was looking towards her standing in the balcony he thought she looks so frail as though she could faint at any moment but other times she's surprisingly strong what is it that makes you like that a few days later at the very a Manor The Duchess greeted everyone thank you for coming everyone lady Ayah said thank you for inviting us Duchess lady

NE replied this greenhouse is beautiful it just lives up to its reputation then The Duchess said my dear allendis doesn't go out much and I was worried that he would be lonely without a friend to share his thoughts with so I was very surprised when he thought up this event himself lady El appraised we were all waiting for an opportunity to meet with sir allendis as he is praised as the genius of the century we're the ones who would like to thank you for this chance really The Duchess replied oh my looking at her aesa

thought The Duchess she seems more lively than usual she usually looks quite ill and exhausted then alenis said mother are you all right I thought you were busy today I'll take care of everything from here on so it's all right for you to leave now mother she complied oh all right now then I hope you all enjoy your time here after she left left aresa asked alenis how is your mother feeling these days he replied without concern same as usual no need to worry about her aresa said I see then aresa noticed I feel someone's

gaze she saw lady Ilia looking towards her noticing Arista looking at her she quickly turns her head as someone called lady Ilia look at that flower over there Arista wondered was it my imagination then carian came and said am I the last one to arrive lady Ayah said oh sir carian you're here Allen dis greeted him welcome caran thank you for coming noticing Allan this Carefree manner Cary and wondered why is he acting so friendly he said sorry for being late as they shakes each other hand allendis said not at all shall we take a

seat after they settled down both allendis and caran sat beside zerista she thought huh what's going on house Rass is the highest in status here so carian should be at the head of the table so why are they both she whispered caran why are you sitting here he ignored her question then lady ilyah spoke lady arestia I watched your debut at the princess kaminga ceremony but it's new seeing you at a social Gathering like this aresa replied yes I was staying at my family's estate so I didn't have the chance to attend such an event

until now then lady niave asked oh with that being said sir caran traveled with you there right how did you two end up staying there together as aresa began oh that's she got cut off by alenis now there's no need to hurry how about some tea before we chat as the tree arrived aresa thought gisca tea I thought it would be blue mow I suppose it's a very rare tea Caren was awkwardly staring at the tea noticing that aresa puts two sugar cubes in his tea he replied thanks aresa thinks in her mind he really

doesn't look like the type to like sweets she then noticed huh why is everyone staring did I do something weird then alenis asked aresa would you pass me some sugar too she replied but alenis I thought you didn't like sweet things he said yes but I'm craving them today for some reason lady Karina said you seem very close with both of them lady aresa Daniel also remarked yes now I can see you're close with both lady niave filled in I was confused for a moment moment since you know about small things like that I might

have mistaken the rumors to be true if I didn't know better aresa was shocked what what rumors lady nive added what a relief I was worried that our faction might end up divided aresa asked wait lady niave what rumors lady niave cheerfully replied oh don't pretend you don't know you just showed us how close you are now too well the ones involved are always the last to know I suppose aresa was still shocked a rumor big enough to divide the faction from within she quickly asked please tell me in more detail what are these rumors

lady niave said they are about the two of you of course people say that you and sir carian are seeing she wasn't able to complete as she noticed allendis and flinched there was an ominous Aura around allendis and she flinched she wasn't able to speak further hm aresa called lady mve caran noticed alenis and wondered h what's this everyone was looking towards lady niave with concern lady niave what's wrong do continue lady and I panicking she said uh ye yes uh accidentally she spilled tea on her clothes aresa shouted your dress lady niave are you

all right alenis quickly stands up from his place and asks are you heard anywhere he offered you should wipe it off with this for now she was still looking shocked and frightened ye yes th thank you looking at her ARA thought why is she like this all of a sudden she seems frightened by something Ben alenis said your beautiful dress is all dirty now did you bring anything else to change into lady niave replied oh no I didn't think of bringing another outfit aresa asked Lady Ilia lady Karina did you bring other dresses with you

our Heights are different so a dress from me won't fit lady Ilia and Karina glanced at each other than lady Ilia first said I didn't lady Karina said neither did I Lady arestia Lady niave then said I'm all right I didn't but I can't stay here like this today I'll have to leave first alenis said is that so I apologize for what has happened it's all due to my carelessness lady niave replied not at all he said I'll escort lady niave out don't mind us and please enjoy yourselves in the meantime lady niave said as

sir allendis I'm quite all right he said I won't be happy simply sending you away please there's no need to be shy after they left aresa thought I feel bad for lady nive carian chuckled and then burst out laughing ha haha what a show really it's nothing new but this is really something aresa asked what do you mean caran he replied ha are you ignorant or do you just have that much Faith normally one would have noticed by now if it's gone this far well it's fine I got to see something funny so at least

it was worth dragging myself over here today turning towards others he said now then how about we continue our chat until sir allendis Returns what should we talk about the latest rumors in society or any slander about Sir alenis lady Karina said oh dear don't say such a thing as the began chattering aresa thinks I wonder what lady niave was going to say it's a bit awkward to ask about it now since the topic has changed those rumors I should look into them meanwhile lady mve gets on her carriage and said th then I'll be

off thank you for escorting me as she was about to leave alenis leaned towards her and said lady niave don't you think a jewel mine is a dangerous place many seek it out for greed but you never know when an accident might occur lady niave who was frightened asked P pardon alenis added I've heard some rumors that a lot of people are looking into that mine on your family's land so please do take caution while shaking lady nve said oh yes thank you as the carriage left Allen is said looking at it you should watch

that tongue of yours if you dare speak about such worthless rumors to my lady again there won't be a next time the first day of the new year of 962 all the Nobles of the Empire gathered in the Imperial Palace to greet the emperor and the Crown Prince for the new year the order of audience begins with house Ras according to their formal status followed by house verita this order signifies the status and position of a house within the Empire Duchess verita called over here lady aresa aresa said Duchess verita thank you for inviting me

to your home before the new year I really enjoyed my time there The Duchess said you're always welcome so do visit often and let me introduce you to my eldest son this is your first time meeting him correct he introduced himself hello hello I'm Alexis deita she greeted him greetings sir Alexis I'm Arista La Monique Alexis said I've always wanted to meet you lady arestia I've heard you are the one who made alenis turn into a gentle lamb so I was very curious about you aresa asked pardon what do you mean by suddenly alenis called

brother Alexis asked what's wrong alenis perhaps I've said something unnecessary again suddenly the announcer said next in rank house verita may enter for the New Year's greeting Duke verita said let's go in as they were going alenis said see you later arestia alenis then glanced towards a noble who was standing in the back an audience and then he went inside with his family then a noble man approached Marquis krian it's been a long time as they started talking aresa glanced around I don't know anyone here she suddenly noticed a sharp gaze at her what I

feel like somebody is she quick turns and saw a person standing behind her she remembered this person is the leader of the Aristocrat faction Duke Cena he's a noble who has lost all power yet the emperor still treats him with respect his very presence is intimidating and I don't know why but he appears very hostile toward me then her father quickly grabs her and said Tia come this way she called Papa he said it's our turn to go in her father and the Duke glanced at each other after they went in the emperor said welcome

Marquis krian and lady aresa her father said greetings your majesty so son of the Empire and Prince rues future son of the Empire the emperor said now we don't really need a New Year's greeting between us let's chat a bit you acted well during the fire in ver palis not a lot of people visit there so it wasn't being managed properly that's why the fire was discovered so late but now I'm planning to ensure that the garden is wellmaintained we cannot have such a mistake happen again aresa replied I am honored your majesty as he

was taking a sip the emperor said oh and I've heard quite a few interesting rumors these days what were they ah some people are saying that sir carian and Lady aresa are lovers aresa spoke your majesty the emperor continued quite interesting really they say lady aresa and Sir carian fled to the Monique estate and Ru using the Border inspection as an excuse ended up passing by there as well her father began I apologize your majesty it's my fault that we have Dishonored the emperor cut him off oh calm down krian I wasn't trying to question

anyone and I already know the truth behind these rumors it's obvious who's behind it aresa already knew just as I thought the emperor continued they find it suspicious that lady aresa has joined the KN Squad so now they are trying to test the bond between the Imperial family and house Monique then he turns towards aresa and said aresa you must know what I'm about to say right they started to take action it would be best to watch your surroundings after that as aresa and her father were leaving she thinks as I thought the aristocrats are

behind such rumors how dare they spread such a Despicable story suddenly a door closed and Duke Zena said it's been a while Marquis krian her father said indeed Duke Cena The Duke said shouldn't you be watching your tone with me I'm a Duke while you're a Maris there is a big difference in our status her father countered yes you're the Duke who comes after a marquis in this ceremony you must be very proud the Duke shouted watch that rude mouth of yours then he turned towards aresa and said H so you're that daughter those rumors

are quite shameful aresa replied excuse me but those rumors are baseless defamation however I'm sure you already know that Duke Zena the Duke said just who think you're speaking to you arrogant wench looks like that vuler blood of yours can't be hidden her father shouted you should be the one watching their Tong Duke aresa was shocked Papa sudden the announcer said it is now time for Duke Zena the fourth in ceremony to enter please follow me to the audience Hall then the Duke went past by Marquis and said the Empire's discipline has gone to ruin

after he left aresa said Papa what the Duke just said her father grits his teeth in anger and then starts walking he said you don't need to worry it's just slander aresa thought I knew he wouldn't tell me vulgar blood is that really just baseless slander but if that was a lie Papa wouldn't get so angry I've never seen Papa make such a scary expression before and the Duke's eyes were full of contempt I don't know what's going on suddenly she heard someone talking did you hear the bad rumors that have been circulating recently someone

said you know the one about lady aresa and another replied you mean about her relationship with sir carian everyone knows since it's a Hot Topic these days aresa was surprised what they continued even if she knew him since they were little how could she behave like that and let such scandalous stories spread when we had tea at sirus's garden party she personally added sugar to the cups of the two gentleman herself arestia took a peek who's saying all those things it was Lady Karina she said they didn't even ask for it yet she added the

sugar so tenderly as if they were lovers the other Noble lady said oh dear she's already engaged to the prince yet she does such a vulgar thing while everyone is watching I heard she's even become a squire so she really isn't planning to become the empress but she's the child of the prophecy lady Karina replied does that really matter everyone knows that his majesty doesn't favor the temple their engagement would have been cancelled a long time ago if she wasn't from house Monique the noble lady said oh that's for sure suddenly lady Ilia said that's

enough this isn't pleasing to watch Karina called her lady Ilia lady Ilia said it's dishonorable to be involved in such a vulgar Scandal but despite her obscene flaws she is still the future Empress so please watch what you say everyone agreed yes lady Ayah after hearing that aresa clenched her fists in Anger what the lady said I say lady IA is so much more suitable to be the empress lady Karina filled in right your dignity and elegance aresa thought such cowards speaking behind my back as part of the same faction they should be arguing against

the rumors the aristocrats have started and yet these ladies of the Imperial faction are enjoying them so they're all planning to slander me together I've neglected my social duties for too long then her father came and said Tia let's return home she said just a moment Papa I have a favor to ask later at night her father presented her with some documents and said here Tia this is the information you asked for make sure to burn it after you're done Ruth might get in trouble she replied yes Papa thank you her father asked is there

anything else you need I can tell you're determined to do something since you asked for this she replied this is fine for now her father agreed and left he thinks in his mind she doesn't seem concerned conned about what Duke Zena said today I didn't want her to get involved in political matters if possible but this must simply be the fate of a noble born in this Empire AA looked at the documents and thought detailed information on the houses within our faction everything is written here from the insignificant to the important as expected of the

chancellor of the Empire it's scary that he has this much information some things might differ from the past I must be careful and prepare for every possibility after reading all of that she burned the documents she remembered even when I was Queen I had to deal with high society it's the same as before our opponent has always been the aristocrats with extremist views thus the Imperial faction shouldn't be fighting among themselves but in order to unite the party I need to prove my position within I've forgotten that for too long it's been a while since

I practiced how to smile I won't flee from the fight they've started I am the successor of house Monique the third family of importance in the Empire a few days later at a party held in N Manor the host greeted them Marquis krian and lady aresa I am honored at your visit to our humble abode I am Beverly sunu aresa replied thank you for the invitation VI Countess she replied I never dreamed that I would one day welcome the Marquis and the future Empress to our Manor now come this way aresa thinks in her mind

house Newan is a vism family they have Minds filled with rubies and diamonds making them one of the wealthier houses in the Empire she's the lady of a wealthy house but she seems quite innocent for someone of her position she's just the one I need her father looked at her and chuckled Arista asked do you not like seeing me like this he replied no this is better than being attacked without a clue if you're determined to start this then go in and do your best she said yes papa then she approached the noble ladies and

said it's been a while lady nve lady niave said lady aresa thank you for accepting my invitation and I would like to apologize for what happened last time I was careless aresa said oh not at all I should be the one apologizing since I couldn't do more for you that day if I were a bit more mature I would have been able to properly help you lady niave lady niave said I know you tried your best lady aresa one of the ladies said do you know what they're talking about the the one replied I wonder

aresa continued I was so happy when I received an invitation for today I've been very lonely since I don't have any close friends around my age lady niave said but you've known those of house verita and house Ras since you were little no aresa replied yes but they're both boys I've always wanted a female friend someone I could easily talk with and now I finally found the chance lady nive gulped are you referring to me aresa thought she's Innocent but not too ignorant and also has a high status but she's not part of the leaders

of the Social Circles within the Imperial faction so she knows how to recognize an opportunity like this aresa gladly said only if you agree lady niave lady niave said thank you lady aresa I'll make sure not to disappoint you while in your service Arisa said oh it's odd to say that you're in my service when we're friends I hope we'll become good friends niave lady niave beamed with joy of course aresa then said now won't you introduce me to your friends I haven't been attending many social Gatherings so I'm afraid I don't know a lot

of people she complied of course from the left is Lady Sharia lady naira and Lady s aresa said greetings everyone I hope you'll become good friends of mine just like lady niave they accepted we're honored lady aresa this count Nira is is also famous for Jewels almost on par with house Newan Viscount Chia runs a group of merchants while Viscount s has several artizens who craft Jewels aresa thought this wasn't bad for my first time I will provide them with an opportunity to be part of the leading group in turn they will provide me with

the support I need in Social Circles this is an adequate trade isn't it they smile at me warmly after judging my potential value and I approached them with a trade in mind everyone is the the same suddenly she recalled allendis and caran she then tells herself don't think about them right now her father said I'm sure it must have been tiring since it was your first time but you did well aresa said really if you're saying that then it looks like I really did do well he said I never knew my daughter had this kind

of side to her Arista thought to herself the Battleground where Nobles hide blades behind their smiles I didn't want to be involved in this again in my new life but I can't protect the people who are precious to me with only a sword in hand sometimes I have to fight just like my enemies it's fine I'm used to this she asked you're not disappointed in me are you her father replied of course not it's a necessary skill in order to survive in this Society no matter how thick your mask is I know there's a gentle

and kind child behind it aresa wondered will other people think the same she remembered before I was never afraid of people people hating me because this was what everyone did to find fake friends I didn't trust anyone and learned that those around me were tools I could use but now I'm afraid I know how precious it is to have people I can honestly talk to what if they become disgusted with me after this what if they turn their backs on me her father squeezed her close and said anyone who has watched you closely will know

so don't worry some days later the noble ladies were talking to each other there's a tea party being held by house Monique lady lady Karina said yes I heard lady aresa sent invitations out to some other ladies within the same faction one of the ladies said then why didn't we get anything I mean perhaps it's fine to ignore us but she left out lady Ilia the most influential lady in our Social Circle lady Karina said lady Ilia she's excluding us on purpose don't you agree lady Ilia thought looks like she's finally made up her mind

Karina said lady ulia should we plan something in retaliation she replied there's nothing to worry about we shouldn't move so hastily let's see what lady aresa can do meanwhile at the Tea Party aresa asked so then does anyone have a unique hobby I believe I do and I would like to talk about it if you don't mind lady niave asked what is it lady aresa she replied I like to Design jewelry and accessories it's nothing much but I really like how my most recent idea has turned out I'd like to hear your opinions if possible

she showed them a design she Drew lady Sharia and Lady s looked at the design lady s said this is isn't this a bino arestia Remembered in my past life binos became quite popular around the time I became an adult the binos we have now are simple accessories since crafting techniques aren't Advanced at the moment however an unknown Jewel crafter made a hairpin that was said to be the work of God BOS were revived as beautiful and functional accessories and they became immensely popular lady s said this is quite unique with this it'll be easy

to tie up long hair and this other one can even be used with shorter hairstyles she remarked this is groundbreaking Arista asked you think so she added this updo will look especially nice with a bino Arista recalled I spent a lot of time thinking up styles and using my memories of the past I came up with a hairstyle I thought would go well with aino Lady Sharia suggested lady arestia what do you think about actually making this into a business aresa said it's just a small hobby of mine I've never thought about actually making it

lady Sharia said do think again Lady aresa this is revolutionary and it will become a popular accessory you have my word as a member of House Sharia and that of the national Merchant Association we can add highquality jewels from house nir and house Nan and we have the Craftsman from House s plus if the merchants of my house sell them this will be very profitable arestia concluded right tenta I knew you'd want this the most since you want to surpass your brother who is said to have no skill and become the heir of the merchant

Association this will be a great opportunity for you aresa said I don't think it's that great an idea but if it can be of help to my dear friends then it's fine I don't need the profit so you can share that amongst your elves she asked Lady aresa why aresa replied I don't want money to affect our good friendship that's all but I'd like to be the first one to see the product when it's finished that's all I ask for lady Sharia said thank you lady Arista I'll be sure to match your expectations looking at

the other Noble children that were present there aresa said inwardly you all saw that right and now you realize what kind of rewards you can get by being on my side next I have to find that Jewel crafter and bring them in to finish this business I wonder how Lady Ila's group will react then meanwhile in the prince office the Duke reported that is all for today your highness the prince said great work I hear sir alenis is already excelling at his work I'll make sure he can get his own office if the outcome goes

well Duke Cruz said I am honored your highness we've only done what we must speaking of outcomes have you heard of Lady arisa's recent accomplishments Duke Arin thought oh he's poking him on purpose again Duke Ruth continued she's already started to gather a decent following after holding just two parties she has an excellent sense of politics don't you think your highness the prince began hold on duar can think I knew it things are going to get chilly in here the prince continued you mean she's doing her duties as a squire while at the same time

hosting social Gatherings Duke Ruth replied pardon yes that's true is something wrong the prince instructed Duke arent she gets sick quite easily make sure she doesn't strain herself by doing too much both of the Dukes were shocked at his reply then the Duke replied understood your highness as they left both of them thought heun's changed but why then Heron asked your highness will advising them be enough the prince asked what are you trying to say he replied it would be better to visit her in person or send her a gift the prince said she'll be

scared and suspect me if I go in person Heron replied you never know didn't you two take a walk in the garden together on the anniversary of her mother's death while remembering her he replied that was because it was a special day or are you confident that she won't put her guard up around me Heron replied of course suddenly he remembered she passed out in the past then he said uh wait I can't promise that the prince then lost in thoughts looking at him Heron thought his hus is worrying so much about someone and he

used to refrain from getting involved with other people Heron chuckled to himself Heron then said your highness today happens to be the nighting ceremony lady aresa will be attending the event as a squire why don't you also attend for a short time meanwhile carian asked you're coming right to the nighting ceremony she replied of course I'm a squire of the commander you know caran said right right I highly respect your diligence but today you should watch this dignified genius here aresa thought it must be nice he's becoming an official Knight carian asked you don't need

to look so jealous just you wait I'll make you into an official night in no time she asked really thank you caran carian said don't change your mind later all right I'm going to train you every day till you're sore so be ready she replied with confidence I'm always ready meanwhile Duke Arin was grinning and smirking while in presence of the emperor the emperor said well you look happy he boasted how could I not be my son is the youngest in the Empire's history to be knighted your majesty both of my sons are excelling and

our family is bound to succeed we will be contributing to the Empire's peace for Generations don't you think the emperor said right right Duke Arin continued listen to this your majesty I mean Kiran used to be so stubborn before but now he's asking me to teach lady aresa the female fencing technique of house Rass hearing that both the emperor and Duke Ruth were surprised for a moment Duke Arin continued exchanging the unique techniques of both houses will surely make them stronger the emperor concluded hm so he's planning to make her the heir for sure the

emperor then spoke why don't you at least try to show some effort and be careful your Genius son is involved in a rumor with my son's fiance you know he replied but you know very well that there's nothing going on between them your majesty Duke Ruth waved at the servant to leave the emperor said Ben I wonder why I find you so annoying right now he remembered I can't forget how he looked this morning he remembered the prince looking at aresa and carian from balcony Duke arant added and so caran will be learning the technique

of house Monique in return what do you think Ruth isn't my son amazing right you have to say yes he was shaking Duke Ruth with excitement looking at him excited the Emperor said right you're going to keep laughing about this I see Duke Arin replied yes well pardon later at the ceremony carian asked oh what's this what brings you here weed head so you finally acknowledged how great I am and came to watch this glorious moment alenis replied I don't care what you do or what happens to you I'm only here for my lady I

want to see her new uniform caran said gez you're so annoying you could congratulate me a little on a day like this you know alenis said then would you be able to sincerely congratulate me if something good came my way carian shows his disgust ug then glancing around alenis said on that note where is Tia Karan replied I wonder Duke Arin shouted your majesty how can you do this last time you said you didn't mind the emperor replied of course I don't mind it's a false rumor in the end but they did end up giving

them a reason to make one so they should be punished the Duke was shocked that's but then why are you punishing only one person and you're making me do it what am I going to tell Kiran the emperor said your son will be punished too the Duke said but a squire shouldn't be banned from the ceremony the emperor replied I didn't say she couldn't come it's fine as long as she finishes what is given to her meanwhile aresa was assigned to organize the library in which thousands of books were lying in dust looking at them

IA wondered when will I finish organizing all of this this is the night's library but there are all sorts of things here a directory of the Empire's Nobles why is this here I feel like everything was shoved into this one place oh well I'll have to go through them one by one at the nighting ceremony the chatter grew louder allendis and carian were still looking for aresa the announcer said the appointment of the Knights of the castina Empire shall now begin May the new Knights come forth Marquis asked AR Kint where's my daughter the Duke

replied I'm sorry I have nothing to say then the emperor stands in front of his throne and said the Empire and the Imperial family will forever remember your loyalty all the knights shouted we are honored Your Majesty we will now proceed with the oath of loyalty to the one we serve the prince recalled the Duke saying your majesty isn't that the same as forbidding her from attending the oath was as it is the one who gave me life is Vita but the one I will offer my life to is my Lord I offer my blood

and flesh to my Lord Oh Lord of my heart please take us as you may the emperor performed the ceremony with his sword the Knight took the oath loyalty to the lion and honor to the Empire honor to the Empire and glory to you the announcer said next sir Heinrich Low Winter come forward meanwhile aresa was in the library gosh everything toppled over and I was almost done I should start over the ER said next sir carian duras come forward caran took the oath loyalty to the lion and honor to the Empire honor to the

Empire and glory to you he thought she must be watching from somewhere right suddenly the prince dashed away from the ceremony Heron called him your highness where are you going the ceremony isn't over he replied I'll be right back Heron tried to stop him your highness the emperor also noticed him leaving meanwhile aresa looked outside the window and said it's already this late it must be almost over by now I thought watching the nighting ceremony would help with my own determination and that perhaps I can become a night soon if I just work a bit

harder I really wanted to watch it today suddenly the door opened and she jolted she quickly turned and said I I apologize Commander I haven't finished what you told me to do yet and she saw the prince standing there your highness greetings future son of the Empire what brings you to this Library she wondered huh isn't the ceremony going on right now how come he's here the prince said it's not too late if you leave now for the nighting ceremony aresa was taken aback what did he come here to get me that can't be but

she replied I apologize but I have to organize everything in here the prince said you can finish that after she said but the prince filled in didn't you want to watch the ceremony aresa wondered how did he know the prince offered his hand and aresa grasped it yes your highness she thought how did he know that I wanted to be there at the nighting ceremony the emperor said today the seven of you are now proud Knights of this Empire all of them jumped with joy the audience gave their congratulations congratulations sir caran congratulations sir Benedict

suddenly the door opened and everyone looked towards the door AR IA and Prince came together everyone was surprised huh how come they're coming in together the people in audience started murmuring and Whispering isn't that lady aresa next to His Highness so it's true that she joined the night's Squad she's quite late to the ceremony but she's here with the prince Heron was surprised at first and he smiled and thinks I was wondering where he headed off to in such a hurry the emperor looked towards them and thinks ah that boy The Prince and arestia went

to caran Duke AR was also surprised and blurted out oh did she finish organizing the library Maris twitched after hearing that what did you say then the prince said I congratulate all of you who were kned today I hope you will all become strong Shields and swords of this Empire especially sir caran who is now officially a knight you've shown such growth in a short time I don't know what to say to properly congratulate you caran replied I am honored your highness the prince said I've always been grateful for what you've done so keep accomplishing

great things as a knight and please continue to be a good friend to my fiance she grew up as my betro since she was young so she was quite lonely I've always thought it was a Pity and have felt sorry for that but recently she's become brighter thanks to you and Sir alandis caran flinched after hearing that the prince continued you've both become such loyal friends to her so of course I can put my mind at ease the prince went close to caran and near his ear said I will continue to trust you in the

future as well sir carian carian replied of course your highness then the prince said a Grand Banquet had been prepared and the honored guests were encouraged to enjoy themselves thank you your highness the knights responded enthusiastically aresa said to herself huh you're leaving just like that what about me you brought me here then caran asked what's with you you came after everything was over oh sorry came the reply I had too much work to do I might get punished later caran teased I thought I couldn't find you because you're so small aresa said congratulations on

officially being named a knight sir caran she thought though I didn't witness witness the oath but still I can enjoy the celebratory atmosphere reflecting on the ceremony she resolved one day I also want to be officially kned right here and recite the oath in a meeting of aristocratic faction a noble said as I thought she's a bother we must take down that daughter of house Monique as soon as possible one of them said house Monique is an isore they're the Imperial family's dog and now they've become arrogant thinking that they're on the same level as

a Duke the Crown Prince is an adult now we can have him find a new woman if only she wasn't there he then asked how is that other case going he replied we're looking for an opportunity that Sly Emperor noticed something and put his guard up so it hasn't been easy but the guards won't be as alert on Foundation day we'll seize the opportunity and remember the next Empress must be a member of the Aristocrat faction meanwhile alenis was tapping on the book deep in his thought while remembering the nighting ceremony scene a person called

Hey sir allendis about the data on last year's tax totals on each estate and this year's budget for events it would be nice if you could organize them as soon as possible it's a lot to go through but you're a genius so it should only take about two days alenis shuffled some document and stacked them at his hands looking at them the person asked you're done as they were leaving he said last time it took the three of us a whole week yet he finished this all by himself it's freaky rather than amazing allendis was

deep in thought the rumors about caran and tia are dying down since the nighting ceremony I don't care about the carrot but if nothing was done Tia would have lost her dignity and been accused of causing a scandal since she's the prince's fiance just as they wanted and I even had to ask a favor from that person in order to ensure the rumor didn't spread further but I couldn't hold back when I actually heard it yet the one who managed to stop that rumor was the prince who displayed his trust for house Rass he shouted

darn it he thinks the prince could it be you Dar to take my lady after all this time aresa was car caring loads of books remembering the Duke saying I'm sorry aresa I had my reasons she said I wonder what the commander meant she remembered him saying anyway you can finish organizing the library by yourself since you'll be exempt from your duties as my Squire for today don't worry you're not the only one being scolded she concluded hm I don't think I was scolded enough for disobeying orders I was prepared to be put on probation

and what did he mean that I'm not the only one she thinks still I'm glad that I could be there caran on his first day was put in charge of cleaning the training ground as she was walking she saw alenis walking she called ha Alan alenis as he didn't respond and walked away she wondered did he not hear me suddenly Heron came holding tea lady aresa she greeted him sir Haron it's been a while Heron asked Lady aresa what brings you here to the prince's Palace and you're carrying so many books she replied I'm here

to return these after organizing the night's Library there were a couple of odd books and I realize they're from here Heron told but this isn't the way to the main library this leads to the prince's personal study he realized I see you must be lost should I show you the way to get to the library go left turn right then turn 180° and go straight she asked wouldn't turning 180° take me back to to where I came from oh it's all right I must have gotten a bit confused but I'm not lost Heron said that

doesn't seem to be the case he thought but she's carrying so many books do Squires have that much work to do and she was late to the ceremony because of it then he remembered wait a minute his majesty definitely said he shouted oh he jumped after realizing and aresa gets startled from it she asked sir Heron what's wrong you suddenly shouted he said this this is troubling I needed to get something from the library but I kind of forgot Arista asked pardon he said it's very urgent so I need to hurry this is terrible really

aresa said is that so she thought he must be in a hurry she said since I'm going there would you like me to get it for you if you tell me what you need then he shouted no I must get it it has to be me I I have to go in person it's confidential I can't go into more detail but that's the case there was a burning fire in his eyes then he said but His Highness is very tired from work and I shouldn't neglect my duties of delivering this tea it would be very

helpful if someone could deliver this to His Highness instead of me aresa said I'll take it he beamed with joy oh would you he said I'll return these books then thanks so much aresa was standing their daed as to what had happened as Heron was walking to the library he was thinking so the emperor was punishing her for the rumor involving lady aresa that means all the extra work delivered to the Crown Prince today must have been his punishment for helping her when aresa entered she found him asleep looking at him she wondered he's sleeping

should I wake him up or should I just leave this here what do I do she Fred I've never seen him like this before he was always so Stern ER so I assumed he would look serious even while asleep but he looks so normal now for once you look just like any other person she thought noticing a peacefulness in his expression that smile those words I never heard in my past life and the way he had sought me out during the ceremony they were all signs that he was not the same as before she realized

I've changed and so has he people tend to affect each other as they change if I was like this in the past could I have avoided that tragedy she dismissed the thought no there's something more important than that June would arrive soon a girl from another world blessed and loved by God if June appears and he chooses her my position will be vastly different she concluded well it's no use thinking about that now meanwhile caran was lamenting his punishment having been tasked with cleaning an enormous training ground all by himself this is a conspiracy how

am I supposed to clean this whole area by myself he muttered he remembered his father's words I'm sorry but this is all your fault you know what did I do father is it my bright Talent my handsome face or my amazing personality he groaned in frustration finally he admitted whatever I can't clean this place by myself suddenly he saw alenis walking somewhere he went to him hey weed where are you going in such a hurry did you get sore from staring at papers all day in the administration office if so why don't you help me

clean this training ground before your head alenis said with disgust and anger shut up don't talk to me caran was shocked what hey I was being nice by talking to you first and that's how you react that's why you don't have any friends after alenis left he said geez he has such a horrible personality seriously tisk as aresa looked around the prince's study she marveled at the wealth of knowledge it held books on PA itics economy history strategy and tactics line the shelves each well worn evidence of their use he must have read all of

them she thought impressed by his diligence one book caught her attention directory of nobles flipping through its Pages she noted the directory is updated every 5 years so only the most recent editions are kept in Noble houses but here all the past additions are stored suddenly she remembered Duke Zena's word look like that vulgar blood of yours can't be hidden she scanned the records looking back 20 years the list was as follows first in formal order of preceden is Shield of the Empire house Quil Duke second informal order of precedences Red Rose house hidle Duke

third inal order of preceden is sword of the Empire house Ras Duke fourth inal order of preceden is glor of Victory House Laurel Duke Fifth and formal order of preceden is Black Rose house Zena Duke she remembered house Zena was fifth in rank 20 years ago then the other houses she then noticed the family tree of house Monique house Sonia Baron managed a small town on the Monique estate through the marriage of their sole legitimate daughter Jeremiah Lo Sonia their title was withdrawn her thoughts were interrupted by the prince's voice what are you reading he

asked startling her she apologized explaining that she hadn't realized he was awake you you don't need to apologize for that he assured her sitting up I must have fallen asleep then aresa said your highness I brought you some tea he said so you were the one to deliver it thank you since you're here does that mean you're done organizing that other Library she replied no but I think I'll be done by today he said is that so aresa then said you seem to have a lot of work as well looking at the stacks of paper

he said this is the price I have to pay for acting impulsively she asked is there anything I can help you with he asked why Arista was speechless for a moment why she wondered oh did I overstep my bounds she began because you helped me on the day of the ceremony the prince accepted I see I'm fine for today I'll ask for your help on another day when I need a hand then the prince said you must be busy you may go now she replied oh then yes I'll take my leave as she left the

prince looks at the list of potential guests for foundation day after leaving aresa was deep in her thoughts thinking about what she saw in there caran saw her walking and called for her hey you're here let's leave together when we're done but aresa didn't hurt him as she was lost in thoughts she reflected on what she saw Sonia a house which had the rank of Baron it was definitely the family tree of our house and the name and the direction was my mother's even if they are Rivals nobody can dare say that house Monique is

vulgar so I thought it was directed towards my mother's family yet according to the directory they're both from Noble houses she wondered Ben why did Duke Cena say something like that and even in my past life I've never heard of how Sonia suddenly caran grabs her she looked towards him oh caran he asked what are you thinking about so seriously that you can't even hear me why do I keep getting ignored today she asked what are you doing here he replied that's what I want to ask I'm supposed to clean this all by myself isn't

that hazing she said there's no way it's that carian changed the topic anyway we should start soon right aresa was oblivious huh carian said don't say her you're training to become an official Knight aresa remembered oh right he pointed towards her and said don't think you can miss even one day as you well know my method is very Spartan so I won't go easy on you she gladly agreed yes of course caran felt relieved good now I can finally hold a sword I'm never cleaning like this again she thought I think I should ask someone

who knows could it be that my mother she asked her father's soldiers they replied your mother's family why are you asking so suddenly she knew because Papa probably won't tell me even if I asked him one of them replied your mother was from house Sonia and they were barents but their house doesn't exist anymore your mother was their Last Descendant and once she got married their title was taken away she asked was my mother adopted into that family he replied pardon no I'm sure she was a direct descendant why would you think otherwise she get

to know so that's not what it was she asked again what kind of house was house Sonia he replied they originally served house Monique it was quite the Scandal back then the commander broke off his engagement and asked the marianist to marry him aresa was shocked his engagement my father had a fiance he added oh I heard about how amazing it was I mean the commander was engaged to he told her that the duchess ernia was his fiance meanwhile The Duchess called for his son Cajun Cajun where are you he replied were you looking for

me mother The Duchess said please come down so we can get your measurements for foundation day and bring San here too Cajun said wait wasn't he with you in the sitting room she replied he couldn't stay still for one second and ran away just like someone else I know aresa was in shock what Duchess eria and papa the soldier said to the other one hey stop I think we've said enough he said would that be all my lady I didn't know you were so ious about your mother you should ask the commander himself when you

get the chance I'm sure that he would be happy to tell you aresa said inwardly Papa is that true will you really tell me someday she said all right I'll wait until Papa tells me she thought right whatever Duke Zena said isn't important to me right now she went to her father and hugged him he was surprised what is it Tia you're acting childish today she replied I just felt like doing this her father said something must have happened I see aresa was thinking there are still a lot of things I don't know about Papa

I kept reaching out because I was anxious to know more but I didn't consider his feelings her father said whatever it is it will be all right my daughter the morning before foundation day Lena suggested my lady you can take a break for once today aresa said I know I haven't been so relaxed in the morning for a long time Lena asked you'll be staying home during the holiday right you haven't rested properly lately the other maid told Lena is always worried about you my lady she's been upset since she couldn't spend a lot of

time with you lately Arista chuckled hearing that ha Lena said Taylor you were the same then Lena casually said while preparing her don't worry I'll work hard to make you look fabulous today look forward to the bino snapped in her hands realizing what had happened Lena screamed the boo my lady's bino she shouted The Limited Edition bino from Rua Kingdom the one bino that always decorated my lady's hair the one I've always kept clean so that it wouldn't rust Arista tried to comfort her calm down I'm all right Lena said my lady please punish me

she said Lena Taylor it's fine really observing the bino she said H this accessory isn't very sturdy that's for sure that crafter was good at making these durable I wonder how things are going I haven't heard any news yet then the servant came and informed my lady lady Ana Sharia and Lady Katherine s are here to see you she went to them and asked what is it Ana Catherine lady s began lady aresa forgive us for coming at such an early hour aresa cut her off but this is great did you happen to find the

crafter lady Sharia said actually we're here to discuss that matter they told her about the situation aresa was shocked what he won't cooperate she told yes we offered him the best position and status as a crafter of House s but he didn't even listen lady Sharia said since you told us he is essential we've tried to draw him in by offering him several different things but he's hard to please it's going to be difficult since he's rejecting our offers aresa thinks for a moment then she asks where does he live lady Sharia was surprised lady

aresa are you planning to go there in person it's in a very dark and unsafe area where the commoners live aresa said that's not important with determination she said we must bring that crafter no we must earn his trust and cooperation I will go wherever I need to Lady Sharia was surprised by her resolve lady aresa she said then we will go with you suddenly alenis and caran also came alenis said excuse us we happened to hear what you were talking about but now that we know what's going on we can't let you go alone

we should all go together it's better to have more people caran filled in right right and we can help where necessary he said it might be dangerous if that person tries to attack you know aresa was sure that wouldn't happen it's not like he's a wild animal 2 hours later in the commoner quarters they were kicked out by The Craft after all of them were shocked what was that about arestia remembered the crafter Ventus will later be nicknamed the hand of God his delicate and beautiful crafting skill was praised as magic from the old ages

he will become a legend who will charm people all over the land but right now he's a normal crafter with a peculiar personality a while ago while walking to the crafter lady Sharia told he can work with both jewels and metals but he's too stubborn about his materials he often gets into arguments with his clients and the merchants they went to his Abode and Lady Sharia confirmed lady aresa are you really going inside aresa knocked on the door and asked is this centus Workshop he asked who's there he opened the door looking worn out and

exhausted he asked what what do you want to order she introduced herself greetings I'm AR La Monique I've heard of your exceptional Jew crafting skills we're planning to create an access and we need your help so we came looking for you sir Ventus please craft a beautiful boo with your skill she bowed as she said that all of them gets shocked lady Sharia said my lady you don't have to go so far for a CER lady s also added right to Bow before him is the crafter said house Monique I've heard that name quite often

I'm honored that a member of a founding house has come to visit my humble abode but you all aren't the only Nobles who've come looking for me of course I rejected them all aresa quickly said I shall offer you your own personal Boutique to Showcase you work suddenly he looked sparkled oh my own personal Boutique you you know what people want it's true many would want their own Boutique lady Sharia wondered is he falling for it he's sparkling all of a sudden then the crafter said but he suddenly shouted don't underestimate me they screamed in

fear Arista remembered caren's word he might attack you haa she thought heun really going to attack the crafter said who do you take me for I'm not like that alenis and caran rushed towards him carian grabbed him as he was fuming money and boutiques paid for by Nobles what does it matter my only goal is to create the highest and best in quality for art and Beauty don't you dare think that I'm the same as some old crafter in the street as he wasn't calming down caran said everyone get outside as they rushed outside the

crafter said from behind I will only ever make what I want you Nobles don't understand my beautiful art do you even know how delicate crafting is I don't want to be tied down by Merchants who count the cost of materials such fools I hate them Arista was lying on the ground he said that expression on your face I love it it's easy for an expert like me to make even a noble look like that well then bye hi he slammed the door close after he left caran said wow he suddenly went crazy aresa asked caran

how did you know that he might attack us allendis remarked well they say a beast recognizes other beasts caran shouted who are you calling a beast that's just nonsense then lady Sharia said anyway that's how he is he refuses both money and fame lady s said wouldn't it be better to find someone else I wonder what happened between him and the other Merchants that made him like this aresa thinks for a moment antia Catherine then she said H but he's working in such poor conditions I'm sure it would affect his crafting let's try a bit

more then for the next few days aresa visited him but he refused every day second day good morning Serv Ventus go away third day centus centus please look this way nope fourth day centus that apple is rotten oh you're hey stop meddling fifth day centus please let's discuss get out sixth day aresa said you're working in such per conditions we'll provide you with better tools and better equipment for your craft he shouted how can you say such a horrible thing she asked did I say something bad he replied I would never see my tools in

that way I'm not a crafter who blames my tools as an excuse you're the one insulting the tools I've spent my whole life with you are very very arrogant lady Sharia snapped who's the one being arrogant here you wild boar aresa stopped her antia calm down lady Sharia wasn't stopping let me go lady arestia I'll teach him a lesson aresa said you must think of your dignity don't say lady Sharia shouted I'm going to grab that man and pull his ears until he countered what I see you've underestimated this crafter by bringing these Petty people

with you caran and allendis were watching as the drama unfold caran said what's wrong with them did they both wake up on the wrong side of the bed alenis was Furious let go how dare he say those things to Tia the crafter again snapped you Shameless people leave my house at once he starts throwing tools and things around arestia tried to stop lady Sharia and tiia it's D dous suddenly a toou slashed aristy at her hand and Blood starts dripping from the cut caran and alenis both shouted aresa lady Sharia said lady aresa you're bleeding

seeing that Kian grabbed the crafter from his shirt and shouted how dare you you think we'll let you get away with this the crafter said what you're the ones who barged in here in the first place allendis who was also Furious said that's not something someone who has suddenly lashed out at a guest should say he continued you've harmed a noble so you won't mind if the same is done to you then a crafter's hands are their life it would be Troublesome if your muscle or ligament were to be cut by accident right aresa stopped

him wait I'm all right it's only a small cut she said I apologize for this centus I was careless wekk be leaving for today please excuse us and so they retreated lady Sharia lady aresa why don't you stop here even if he agrees to work with us it might cause more trouble than it's worth lady s agreed right with our influence we can easily find someone else why not just announce that we're looking for a crafter Arista hesitated deep in thought hm but alenis said I agree people like him tend to stay put look at

him now still being stubborn even though someone got hurt caran also agreed I think it's best to give up you too IA said she couldn't deny their points but the thought of giving up on someone with such immense potential felt like a loss it's Such a Pity to leave behind someone like him I understand how he became so disgruntled living like that but he'll be recognized for his talent one day he's someone who could truly shine and become even greater if only he had a supportive environment is giving up really the only choice just then

a sparkle caught her eye she paused standing abruptly what is it alenis asked asked Arista approached a stall nearby welcome we're selling all these at a bargain the merchant said plenty of items to suit a lady like you so take a look as she rifled through the collection aresa exclaimed this is her companion asked did you find something what what looking at the items they said ug they're all covered in dirt do these things even sell Arista bought the accessory that caught her eye from the merchant arista's determination hardened they went back to the Crafter

they found themselves once again at Ventus door lady Sharia said nervously I think this time we'll definitely be chased out for good aresa knocked the door saying it's all right the door creaked open Ventus sits there frowning so you're here again yes I am arestia declared confidently you're quite persistent he muttered not as much as you she countered you're the one who always rejects us please hear what I have to say once more all of her companions thought he's going to kick us out again vent aside stepping aside all right I've got nothing better to

do anyway her companions exchanged incredulous glances what he's changed his mind he complained my tools they're all broken caran thought but he's the one who threw them Arista pixs put a small piece of jewelry from her pocket this it was being sold at a stall out front you made this didn't you she said it was collecting dust in the corner but but I knew right away I am yoper fan after all Ventus eyes widened fan the jewelry glimmered and the light fills the room all of them were dazed aresa said even this small piece of

jewelry can fill a room with such light you're the only one who can create something like this hum is that so Ventus replied trying to mask his pride aresa added moreover you cut the jewels yourself and crafted it in your style he replied well I do make them arista's admiration didn't falter you've turned regular designs into elegant works of art that tell their own story The subtle changes in the angle of your Cuts create patterns that resemble the Forgotten magic of the old ages you're not someone who should be Hol Up in a place like

this you need to go where people will recognize your talent her companions looked on in astonishment Tia does she realize what she saying Allen this thought Arista pressed on I believe your name will be written down in history centus just 3 months please work with us for 3 months if you still don't like us after that I'll give up but for now please consider this offer Ventus was silent for a moment before he smiled you're more daring than you look all right you win I'll work with you sentus arista's face lit up with joy he

added your passion has moved my heart Arista said I'm honored Serv Ventus the crafter said what makes an artisan move isn't money but a fan her companions were in disbelief alenis said no you're moving because of money caran reminded his tools are all broken as the gets outside the crafter said goodbye then oh sorry about your hand aresa replied wek come to help you move soon the group left with a renewed sense of accomplishment that was amazing lady arestia one remarked you managed to persuade that grumpy man oh it was my last desperate attempt Isa

admitted her companion observed her thoughtfully you're quite interesting you know you understand how to use us and make us move as if you've been in High Society for 10 years yet at times like these you're surprisingly innocent and passionate aresa flinched hearing that lady Sharia said you seem like somewhat unafraid to get hurt that's not true antea I do care about myself she insisted lady Sharia persisted really then what should I do I'm quite ious now would you allow me to learn more about you about what kind of person you are lady aresa aresa said

you can stop calling me Lady it's kind of embarrassing oh but you know I can't do that lady Sharia said gently one day you'll be leading us all right and you were so polite to that crafter too when they returned in the carriage aresa was sleeping as she was tired from the day while she was sleeping alenis grabbed her hand and said Tia this is upsetting I thought I knew everything about you but the more time goes by the more I don't know I don't understand what you're thinking right now I don't know anything about

these different sides of you perhaps I went too far and left you behind he kissed her hand and said what should I do with you my dear lady and like that Foundation day arrived Foundation day is held during the season when the flowers bloom most marvelously honored guests from various countries are invited to celebrate this Grand Event in the Empire the Imperial Palace was bustling day and night preparing to welcome all the Royals and Nobles unlike before what stood out most about this year's occasion was the invitation extended to princesses from different countries the emperor

said they were invited as guests but in truth they had come to be considered as candidates for the Crown Prince fiance I'm sure you're ecstatic on the inside right now your majesty aresa remarked the emperor continued isn't that true if you're lucky someone might replace your position this time he asked but will things really go as you wish aresa replied we'll have to see about that as she was walking back she thought to be honest this situation is better for me if one of the princesses were chosen as the princess fiance I can be free

sooner than I expected for now though she had to focus on her work she opened the door Commander she began I've brought the information on the knight's deployment the prince was there instead of the Duke the Duke is away at the moment he informed her aresa bowed greetings future son of the Empire what brings you here today I stopped by during my inspection the prince replied but it looks like my timing was off tell the Duke to come to my office later she complied yes understood then turning his attention to aresa the prince inquired and

you has anything happened to you lately no nothing in particular your highness she replied she said inwardly except for the fact fact that I'm busy every day confused she wondered why was he asking such a question all of a sudden the prince looked thoughtful for a moment before speaking again is that so I see don't think too much about what I just said with that He Turned and Left Arista stood there for a moment puzzled what was that about elsewhere in the palace things were bustling in preparation for the evening Gathering of young Nobles before

foundation day Arista arrived to find an unusual commotion what's going on here edia niave she asked Lady Sharia looked towards her lady aresa aresa asked isn't this supposed to be the evening Gathering of young Nobles before foundation day what's going on here lady Sharia replied lady Ilia and Lady rehea are at it again lady ilyah shouted even so this is too much aresa went to them what's going on here lady ilyah I heard quite the Uproar lady Ilia hesitated before answering well I called for a service holding some drinks but lady rehea argued that the

servant should come to her first really aresa asked then who called the servant first it was definitely me lady Ilia insisted what are you saying lady rehea shot back I was the one who called him first yet you're still arguing that it was you Ilia argued didn't you call for him after he came to me lady rehea retorted no in the first place the servant was coming to me you were the one who cut in between Arista side addressing lady rheya are you the granddaughter of Duke Cena by any chance lady rehea replied oh are

you saying that just because of the color of my hair I am definitely related to Duke Zena by Blood but Duke Zena doesn't have any granddaughters aresa said cooly the Nobles present there giggled lady rehea protested even a new member of high society would know a fact like that yet you don't seem to have any common sense at least have some shame Arista agreed that's right anyone would know that Duke Zena doesn't have any granddaughters and they would also know who I am wouldn't they lady rayya began without batting an eye well of course you're

from house Monique and Marquis krian she wasn't able to complete as she realized what she had done wrong then aresa began looks like your etiquette tutor must be punished your tutor must have forgotten to teach you that it's rude to cut into a conversation when someone of higher status is speaking looks like I must question you of your offense and bringing shame to this High Society lady Rhea face was in despair oh well the meeting fell silent as aresa continued do you all realize what kind of time it is now guests from different countries are

arriving to celebrate our foundation day yet here you are causing an uproar in the palace over something so trivial do you think this isn't a shame for the Empire do you think this isn't a disloyal act to the royal family the Nobles present their hung their heads I'm sorry I apologize lady aresa they murmured aresa commanded I'm glad you understand letun remove the cause of this uproar shall we you over there a servant snapped to attention yes call all your fellow workers and serve everyone here some refreshments aresa ordered he complied yes as you command

the incident quickly diffused and the Nobles expressed their gratitude thank you lady aresa walking away from the scene lady rehea sighed internally Arista thought Rea say Hamill I heard she's the daughter of a account yet she acts high and mighty thanks to being related to Duke Zena now that I see her in person she's audacious indeed obviously other people wouldn't be able to stop her when she's like that still I didn't really wanted to use my status and title to make others obey later in another part of the palace aresa briefed the Duke on the

security Arrangements the knights are all in place she reported the Duke said good h the guests from other countries will be arriving starting today so don't forget to check one last time yes sir aresa replied the Duke said and Squire aresa I'm sure you're busy preparing for foundation day so I apologize for making you work until the last minute not at all arestia replied this is my job he said all right letun go discuss the matter of security with the visiting Knights she complied yes commander as they were about to leave someone approached excuse me

sir aresa asked did you call for us the lady said I'm not quite familiar with this place so why don't you show me the way Commander I think this person is aresa hesitated staring why aren't you answering me are you ignoring my request the woman demanded the Duke asked are you a member of a royal family the woman continued so you know that I'm a royal yet you still expect me to introduce myself first looks like the empire doesn't know how to welcome its guests she sighed dramatically the Duke said all right then let me

introduce myself I am Arin toas the Duke of house Ras at this the woman said oh my so you are the sword of the Empire the head of house Rass I do apologize for not recognizing you immediately she adjusted her posture offering a respectful nod I am morit the eldest princess of the kingdom of yit she continued a Duke of the Empire is equivalent to a royal in a kingdom indeed I haven't shown proper manners in front of someone such as yourself the Duke didn't let up this may be an unofficial visit but I wonder

how could someone invited to meet the prince of this Empire not be taught how to recognize noble families the Duke tuned and said well I suppose that can happen Squire aresa letun go aresa complied yes commander again as they were about to leave wait Moira called after them Arin turned his patience wearing thin what is it now princess she began I admit that my attitude may have been in bad taste however what about the discourtesy this night has shown me she pointed towards aresa she is from house Monique a daughter of a marquis even if

the Marquis of house Monique is praised he is not in fact on the same level as a Duke therefore I rank higher than her moira's gaze sharpened as she added even if she is the prince's fiance I am a member of a royal family the Duke s internally this is what she was after she knew who I was from the start figing innocence she intended to blame aresa and make her kneel he thought look at her acting like she's the future Empress there must be some way to avoid Gathering herself aresa stepped forward she came

forward and said pardon me I am aresa La Monique and I welcome you princess suddenly the prince came and interjected good work Duke AR Kint they were surprised to see the prince here Moira cheerfully dashed towards the prince and said your highness we finally get to meet her demeanor shifted all smiles and excitement I've wanted to meet you for so long I am MOA deit the eldest princess of the kingdom of yit please do call me Mona your highness the prince's response was measured and he was unmoved greetings princess she said boldly I've come to

be your fiance but it's so hard to see you duke Arin thought to himself grinding how bold even though he just rejected her Moira pressed on but since we've met here like this it seems fate truly does exist if I'm not being too much of a bother won't you please spare some time to accompany me for a bit he glanced towards aresa and said I'm very busy at the moment he replied curtly then I won't bother you at all I'll be fine if you just let me walk with you she insisted the prince said do

as you wish Duke Kint I'll see you later the prince added dismissing him the Duke replied yes your highness do take care as Moira and the prince walked away Moira looked towards aresa and smirked as it seemed like that she feels that she had won arin's expression remained neutral he reflected on the situation not an easy one as expected Aisha thought that hostility feels familiar the Duke said remember well all right that person is the princess the Aristocrat faction is pushing as the princess fiance but judging by her attitude she's aiming for the title of

empress aresa nodded faintly she definitely seems like part of the Aristocrat faction especially considering how she tried to undermine me earlier but what she said is true I am a knight and I may have to serve her one day the Duke said I believe it would be better for the Empire if you were to become the future Empress Your Grace aresa responded carefully that is the Duke starts walking saying I fear what will happen if an arrogant princess like her becomes the mother of this Empire I don't understand what his majesty is thinking the days

passed in a blur as the palace was a buzz with activity everyone was busy escorting guests and guarding the capital carine groaned ug this is so boring I can't stand being on guard all the time when will it end aresa told the most important events haven't even started yet caran prayed what please tell me that's a lie suddenly a figure in distinct attire caught their attention who's that those clothes really stand out caran remarked wouldn't that be one of the guests who was invited aresa suggested caran questioned so then why is that person walking around

here without a guard suddenly Cajun came rushing to that person that's my brother carian confirmed there must be a guess from the palace that your brother is in charge of arestia replied dismissively caran said well I guess there's no reason to worry then aresa said yes it looks like he's here to escort that person right they must be going back but Cajun and that person sneaked back to somewhere else looking at them carian and Arista both wondered why are they heading towards the back road out of the palace letun follow them she urged we don't

know where that person is from but they must be a royal guest what if something happens while sirun is guarding that person all by himself caran complained ug what a bother they followed discreetly finally catching up Cajun his brother was surprised what s why are you here I should be the one asking that caran shot back aresa said sir Cajun are you sure you have permission to go outside you're not even taking a carriage Cajun said even lady aresa oh could it be that you two followed us here we were worried that something could happen

aresa admitted just then the mysterious guest turned to aresa with a warm smile oh so this is Lady aresa pardon aresa replied cautiously she said I've heard so much about you looks like this is where we meet it's a pleasure I am Prince darua the second princess of the kingdom of Rua aresa introduced herself after receiving unexpected Greetings oh greetings I am Arista La Monique a daughter of house Monique she realized she was a royal I've always wanted to meet you at least once lady Arista penia said warmly I've been looking for a chance to

become friends with you I'm glad we would meet like this Arista found this rather surprising that's strange she thought the kingdom of Rua was a powerful Nation on par with their own still skeptical Arista pondered why would a royal from there be interested in me then the princess asked carian and you are he said bluntly I'm carian duras prinus said so you're sir cajun's little brother I thought you two look similar prina seemingly delighted suggested since we met like this why don't you join us for a meal Arisa hesitated actually I think it would be

best for you to return to the Palace your highness there are a lot of eyes watching she warned can I stay outside a bit longer we just got out prinia pleaded aresa said but just the three of us isn't enough to guard you safely you can get an official request too please prin interrupted I wanted to see the Empire's capital I don't want to go back home without seeing anything after coming all the way here reluctantly the group relented as they walked caran pointed ahead there's a great restaurant over there oh let's go prina said

cheerfully then aresa looked towards Cajun and asked sir Cajun what kind of Cajun was Dazed looking towards the princess she said again sir Cajun caught off guard Cajun replied oh yes what kind of person is the princess I don't really know her so she asked Cajun replied while beaming oh yes she's very very kind and gentle she treats us very kindly even though we're just knights from another country and when she needs to be dignified she knows how to behave herself he added one time she met with another princess yet she was so calm and

cool-headed she's confident elegant and the perfect example of how Royal should be in short she's an amazing person Cajun concluded with admiration aresa smiled I see later the topic of food arose sparking a lively debate you should order the steak and the salmon salad caran advised what how come aresa protested a knight should have more stamina so you have to eat more if you eat another plate of plants I'm going to scold you caran teased can I eat what I want came the response no no you're 10 years too soon if you want to complain

about your diet carian retorted princess observed them for a moment then she said sir Cajun won't you suggest something for me he gets startled me he then said the beef steak is pretty standard but sometimes the meat here isn't always great looking at the menu he said oh how about Seafood the seafood dishes here are quite well made the princess said is that so cun continued oh but Seafood isn't common in the Kingdom of Rua so it might not suit your tastes but if you order it flade the flavor is very rich oh how about

some truffle pie he excitedly suggested many things caran broke the tension the steak here is good your highness as he said that there was a moment of awkwardness after they ate the princess said this is delicious I'm glad I ordered the steak as Sir caran recommended the broth is Rich and the meat is soft he said I'm glad you like it your highness Cajun was feeling dejected prin called him sir Cajun he replied yes your highness she said after trying the steak here I'm sure the other dishes must be tasty too I'll try the menu

you recommended next time and you'll accompany me then too right she added playfully if you wish your highness Cajun responded politely while observing them caran whispered to aresa don't you think my brother is acting really strange today she replied I know I think this is kind of risky I wonder if that's really all right meanwhile at Palace Moira said your highness why don't you join me for some tea and refreshments today I've brought some fruits that are a delicacy in our kingdom the prince replied princess I'll be troubled if you visit me like this every

day I'm very busy with work and Moira interrupted but you must rest even if you're busy if you need to rest why don't you take a walk with me in the garden later the sunset looks marvelous in the garden and I'd love to watch it with you oh and I'll have dinner prepared at my Palace so please come by Heron was standing there thinking it looks like she won't let him go someone knock on the door the princess said to Moira princess do excuse me but this is heron came and said your highness the gift

you ordered has arrived the prince said is that so let me take a look Moira wondered a gift a pair of shoes as you requested they're made from only the best jewels and materials the prince smiled and said good send my regards and have it well prepared before sending it to house Monique Heron complied as you wish your highness Moira thinks in her mind he's sending such a grand gift to some skinny girl like her even though a princess like me is right here how annoying I hate this I really hate it as they continued

dining lady Karina approached and said so this is where we meet sir carian carian asked pardon me but who may you be she introduced herself I am Karina saier we met at house Veritas Garden Party caran remembered oh that time Karina said I also watched the ceremony where you were officially kned you were the most Splendid among all the new Knights caran replied thank you well I am quite amazing she then said oh dear well since you're eating with others I'll take my leave now I hope to see you again caran said yeah sure after

they left the restaurant prin remarked that lady just now seemed interested in sir caran caran said what that can't be she said so you didn't notice it was pretty obvious to me right lady aresa aresa hesitated pardon well caran spoke even so I'm not interested prinia then said oh is that so then do you have someone in mind what type of lady do you like I really enjoyed today thanks to the two of you lady aresa next time do visit me where I'm staying we should have tea together prinus said with a smile all right

have a good evening your highness arestia responded caran said see you again as the group parted ways Cajun remarked I have to stay at the palace since I'm on night Duty you guys go ahead reflecting on the day aresa noted sirian is usually pretty calm but he was acting kind of strange today carian said if you noticed then there's really no hope for him that silly brother of mine I hope nobody else figures it out he added glancing towards aresa I suppose I'm not in a position to say that either carian answered prino a while

ago I like someone someone who resembles a sword she said aloud really and here I thought that was a very model answer for a knight what do you mean aresa asked little kids don't need to know caran quicked someone who resembles a sword prinia repeated looking towards caran and ARA so that's what you meant the next day a messenger informed lady aresa the prince is looking for you she replied oh please tell him I'll be there soon she wondered he should be busy with the banquet I wonder what this is about I hear all the

princesses are visiting the prince's Palace one by one lately I hope I don't have to awkwardly face another princess like last time she knocked at the door Heron opened the door and while looking dead fish eyes said pardon me but His Highness is very busy at the moment aresa gets shocked H looking at her Heron's attitude take one 180 oh look who's here welcome lady aresa I heard I was needed but should I come at another time she asked unsure no no do come in please come in he insisted he added we've been waiting for

your arrival the prince said you're here wait a moment I'll be done soon Heron whispered the princesses won't be visiting for a while so he's busy getting work done Haron don't talk about something unnecessary the prince warned well there are five candidates here and three of them seemed to be very enthusiastic aresa observed the prince's tired expression and thought he must have no time for himself so how have you been the prince asked aresa thank you for your concern I have been well how about you your highness she replied politely how do I look to

you he asked glancing at the stacks of paper caught off guard aresa stammered well H today I'd like T that's been brewed by you would that be possible he asked she was taken a back for a moment of course I'll prepare it now she answered as she brewed the tea he inquired what colors will you be wearing for this banquet pardon Arista asked startled why are you surprised we always match our outfits for official events he said I thought we wouldn't do it this time because of all the other candidates she thought that's true but

I suppose he didn't send any messages this time because he was so busy she remembered her Maids Lena said my lady the royal family hasn't sent word yet Arista mentioned a few color options dark green navy blue violet blue dark red and black are the colors IAS in mind you seem to prefer dark colors the prince noted she wondered oh do I now that I think about it Lena said the same thing she remembered Lena saying my lady do you really want to wear that I believe you like Rich colors more aresa reflected before I

tried to choose bright colors on purpose why was that then she said serving him tea your highness your te she saw the prince fell asleep Heron then said I thought he was doing well staying up this long but he fell asleep in the end aresa noticed his fatigue does His Highness work until late at night yes Heron confirmed the princesses have been visiting him quite often and His Majesty has transferred many duties to him he didn't have any time to rest at all Haron said thank goodness you came to visit him aresa said suppose it's

fine to rest a bit Arista then tried to wake him up your highness your highness your highness you should wake up your highness the prince opened his eyes and saw her face looking down at him the prince asked so I fell asleep how long has it been she told about 30 minutes the tea went cold so I brewed it again the prince apologized I requested this and didn't even drink it my apologies the prince takes a sip and muffed as the tea was hot aresa asked him are you all right your highness that must be

really hot he replied I'm fine the tea is really good Haron prayed looking at the prince in another corner of the capital plans were being made in secret alenis said I'm surprised to find out this was a secret Gathering Place we are showing you this location out of trust since you agreed to cooperate sir aende someone said said he added you're very smart you memorized all the important documents related to the imperialists I am simply astonished he said things have gotten complicated after the daughter of house Monique has gathered the ones with connections to Merchants

gem mines and Craftsman she started a new trend with boo accessories we Aristocrats must find another Financial route with our Merchants Allan this thought when it comes to power nothing is more important than controlling money while remembering arsd he thinks you're amazing my dear lady though they were imperialists they never stood out before but she managed to gather them together on her own and Foster a new Rising power that small silver lady has now grown to shine so brilliantly looks like you don't need my help anymore the person guided alenis now sir aende this way

alenis resolved while following him you made your choice and I've made mine day one of the foundation Day banquet the grand celebration of foundation day was about to begin Tia stood in her Chambers preparing herself are you ready Tia her father called from outside yes I'll be down soon she replied moments later she met her father did you wait long Papa let's hurry her father smiled warmly that looks good on you but isn't that different from what you chose earlier there's a reason for this she explained the foundation day is a significant celebration with honored

guests from various countries attending she remembered the prince's word you seem to prefer dark colors she thought it would be better to wear something bright on the first day even though I usually prefer dark colors the prince saw her in bright clothes but he was wearing dark clothes he raised an eyebrow aresa thought you're the one who often remarks on my preference for Dark Shades yet now you're in Black the emperor laughed lightly lady Arista you look fabulous today as well confusion flickered across Prince's face didn't she say dark green for the first day aresa

replied to the emperor oh yes I am honored Prince thought I was hoping to match her color so what happened aresa thought he usually liked bright colors I wonder what happened the banquet commenced in Grandeur the emperor stood before the gathered dignitaries thank you all for coming to this Grand Event of the Empire to the princesses who have traveled far I hope you enjoy your time here we are honored your majesty came the unified reply as the festivities unfold Tia found herself approached by the prince he said we should start the banquet she replied yes

your highness did you returned safely that day he inquired yes your highness thank you for escorting me she responded and I finished the tea you left behind he added casually but it would have been cold by then she replied confused cold tea isn't so bad he mused it was excellent would you allow me the chance to have more another time caught off guard Tia nodded hesitantly oh yes your highness as they danced compliments and subtle Jabs filled the air you danced well today lady Arista the prince remarked you've improved she thought still I almost made

a mistake when he told me he drank cold te another teased but doesn't that mean you weren't So Graceful before someone remarked your highness you were amazing it was a pleasure to watch you two dance but lady aresa if you dance well today then that means before you were eth Princess of soapa Kingdom ver toopa oh could it be that you tripped during an official event said the third princess of Sono kingdom name a doo Moira sarcastically added it's because lady aresa is a knight I'm sure she's too busy to care about lat likee duties

such as dancing you looked very manly while wearing that Knight's uniform last time it suits you so well I couldn't recognize that you were the daughter of a Maris someone chuckled oh I can see why she's so small almost like a servant of a country Noble aresa countered I understand I haven't had my kaminga fich ceremony after all but I am proud to work as a knight of this Empire princess veryy said is that so Moira said if you're so proud to be a knight standing in that position and title now must be very uncomfortable

why not consider relinquishing the responsibilities you aren't fit for eing annoyed aresa said to herself justtin J it it doesn't matter to me who becomes the princess fiance because once Jun appears in this world everything will revolve around her including the title of the prince's fiance I just have to hold my position until June appears then I can step down the prince noticing the situation added I hear you are quite skilled with a sword as well princess Moira Moira Fred oh you humble me your highness you already heard about that it's nothing to brag about

but I am told that I have talent the prince said after hearing that I'm eager to see your skills in person would you show me she accepted of course your highness then I would like to set a date and fight against lady aresa if possible arista's mind raised me Moira added if I win give me what you showed me in your office that day the gift you were planning to give lady aresa what do you think princess veryy said in his office could they already be princess NE complained but your highness you didn't show us

anything the prince agreed that sounds fine if that is your wish princess he asked aresa so will you accept this duel aresa thought I don't know what he's thinking after she left the event her mind was still reflecting on what happened but a sudden duel with the princess isn't just some casual event but why did she say that it was for me huh does he like princess Moira maybe he just needs an excuse to give her a gift soon she came to her senses and realized that she's gone astray Oh I thought the lounge was

this way I must have gotten turned around I should hurry and leave suddenly she heard a whisper it seems everyone is so brave on days where there are Banquets some people were talking inside the room another added what are you talking about an event like this is the perfect time precisely because there are so many people it was a good idea to recommend princess Moira she seems to be doing well keeping lady arist in check Arista realized that voice it must be a secret gathering for the aristocrats who are with Duke Cena The Voice continued

we're both desperate to survive that country and us so you said we need to wait for an opportunity to replace that document hearing that arsia wondered replace Duke Zena said I'm relieved to know that someone as talented as you is on our side after hearing that aresa realized is there a among the imperialists aresa tried to Peak by opening the door slightly I think I can see who it is if I just but opening the door made a creek sound Aristocrats present there gets alarmed who's there someone was eavesdropping get them aresa freaked out they

noticed one of them said you rat how dare you sneak around like that aresa was panicking what should I do if there's a spy I can't be found here I have to hide somewhere suddenly someone grabbed her and puts his hand on her mouth the aristocrats opened the door and saw two knights standing there Duke Zen asked and what would you Knights be doing here sir June replied we are on duty Your Grace he asked at a place like this they hid arestia behind another door Knight replied we were patrolling the area Duke Zena said

good work then they left as he said that then sir Seymour asked are you all right lady Arista she replied yes thank you sir June sir Seymour how did you get here he replied well we were passing by he added I think you should go back to the banquet hall now we will leave first so wait a moment before following she Shrugged it off all right even if that was an excuse after they left aresa recalled anyway I wasn't caught thanks to this room being right next door but the aristocrats are shamelessly discussing their plans

within the palace princess Moira and a spy now what should I do suddenly someone called her Tia what what are you doing here aresa saw alenis standing there she replied I could ask you the same question Alan he said it was a bit stuffy in the banquet hall so I was getting some fresh air aresa looks towards the door from which alenis came there's a door here too she asked then Allan didn't you hear some people talking in the room next door he played ignorant hm what people is someone next door Arista thinks for a

moment and then shakes her head it's nothing I must have been mistaken then she turned and started walking she thought I knew the aristocrats were keeping an eye on me I shouldn't drag Allan into this as she was walking alenis stopped her Tia aren't you tired arguing with the princesses about being a knight or a fiance you must be exhausted he pulled her close and continued how about we leave the banquet and sneak outside just the two of us well Tia come with me aresa denied gosh Allon you're only thinking of how to slack off

on a day like this don't you know all the ladies are waiting for you let's go back you should at least dance to one song she then tuned and started walking while saying let's go back it'll be fun once you start talking with Ana and Catherine from before as she left she wondered which way did I come from after she left alenis stands there looking at his hand that aresa left the next day house Monique's Knight said understood my lady you won't lose as long as you remember what we said don't worry what we taught

you will definitely help you win they all looked cheerful carian added Arista you have to do well no you have to crush her think about my honor as your teacher you have to win no matter what her colleague said I'm rooting for you Squire Arista she thinks in her mind everyone is so excited even though I'm dueling a princess from another kingdom still the kingdom of yet might not be happy with what might happen then her father asked her are you worried aristeus said Papa what do you think I should do if I'm the representative

of the Empire's Knights I shouldn't lose right and for those who support me too she thought holding the sword I don't know what is correct anymore why did he accept this her father said Tia we aren't weak enough to be swayed by the result of one duel don't think too much about this and do as you wish because I will protect you no matter what happens she felt touched you're kind to me thank you Papa he said does it matter I'm being kind to my own daughter then Moira came and taunted you've made me wait

quite a long time don't tell me you're already scared aresa said I'm ready evaluator said you may begin and aresa and Princess Moira started their duel clashing their swords in the audience princey asked you seem conflicted your highness who are you cheering for now he looked towards aresa and said I wonder I would prefer if princess Moira won today The Prince and the princesses from other kingdoms were observing The Duel after a few moments as the duel continued Moira realized what the I thought she was just playing around but she's actually good she then tried

harder still she's just a skinny little girl don't be so arogant Lady of Prophecy even though you're purposefully letting it slip that you want to break the engagement you still stand next to him during official events you're an eyesore she then strike arista's sword with full might and aresa lost her sword her sword fell to the ground aresa said I lost your highness carian and her colleague get shocked car and shouted hey hey hey what are you doing you were obviously winning just now so why did you let go of your sword you should have

embarrassed that woman the Knight added that's right my lady we were all looking forward to it aresa said caran your voice is too loud he asked be honest you did that on purpose right she replied no he I watch you train every day do you really think I wouldn't know arestia explained but the princess wouldn't have been satisfied if I won she's an honored guest who is here to represent her kingdom I can't start an argument between the Empire and another country I just thought that it's more important not to embarrass our guests and to

think she didn't like me from the beginning the Knight said my lady that's what you were thinking caran added you're too naive now that You've Lost That princess is going to brag about it wherever she goes aresa smiled I can handle that much then her father called her Tia she quickly stands up seeing her father Papa he complimented good job aresa smiled thinking right this is enough actually I didn't want to lose since I trained so hard after some time in the prince room Heron said the result was as expected your highness the prince replied

right after thinking for a moment he said I thought she would bend instead of fight back against the princess then he ordered send the shoes to the princess at the ball princess Moira was wearing those shoes and was looking happy she was dancing with the prince looking at them aresa thought princess Mora she seems pleased it's difficult to handle someone who has such strong emotions she recalled now that I think about it I think June was kind of like that they're similar in terms of how they openly show their emotions she wondered does he like

that kind of personality if princess Moira really becomes his fiance what will happen to the imperialists who support the royal family as she was busy thinking she noticed the people whispering and murmuring she asked what's going on looking at the prince and princess Moira someone said they suddenly stopped dancing something must be wrong with Princess Moira I wonder what happened meanwhile the prince asked Moira princess Moira you look a bit pale is there something wrong she looked shocked your highness the prince added tell me I'll call the Royal doctor if you're not feeling well she

replied not at all another lady who was dancing besides them noticed and said oh I think I stepped on something what's this she shouted what a shoe the noble started whispering among them the soul broke well of course it didn't fit her they were supposed to be four other princesses besides her giggled Moira felt embarrassed then the prince said looks like I was careless and exhausted you you must be tired from The Duel today princess how about you return to your room and rest she troubled and said yes yes your highness please excuse me she

dashed away as she said that aresa thought the soul broke because they didn't fit her feet the shoes were too small if they were supposed to be for princess Moira why would that happen then the prince came to aresa and said and how are you she replied your highness what do you mean by that he explained I'm asking if you were pleased with this a bit I expected this to happen when I first showed your gift to the princess because princess Moira was hostile toward you from the beginning aresa thinks in her mind am I

pleased so he did that for me is this really the same person that I used to know it's as if he was being considerate of my feelings she said that wasn't like you you're mixing your personal feelings with important state affairs this could turn into an argument with the kingdom of yit the prince looked towards her in shock do you really want me to find another fiance even if it were a princess the aristocrats are pushing for she said your highness it can't be helped he said inwardly they dare to desire what is yours and

you say it can't be helped then he turned and started walking all right I'll keep that in mind after he left aresa thinks in her mind what is happening he's supposed to be objective and level-headed all the time well to be honest it did please me a bit meanwhile princess Moira was lashing out how how can he do this to me how dare you suddenly prinia came and said that is what happens when you get greedy for something that isn't yours a princess of a Nation should be able to discern that much don't you think

Moira smirked and you're the one saying this princess prin you pretend to be aloof regarding this matter but did you think I wouldn't notice out of all of us you are the one who visits the prince the most she replied isn't it obvious that you should be diligent if you want to get what you wish for do you not agree with my method Moira said no and I refuse to listen to your preaching at least I don't pretend to be all innocent like you do after Moira left she resolved I can't give up now I

will be the prince's fiance no I have to become the empress the next day Arista and carian were walking together when they saw Heron walking holding some documents arestia called sir Heron pardon me he asked lady aresa did you return home safely yesterday she replied yes but I need to discuss something with you I would like to see His Highness for a moment before the banquet today when will he be free he looked flustered after hearing that oh um after thinking for a moment he said I apologize my lady but you can't see him at

the moment he has to deal with some administrative work it's very urgent so please understand and His Highness won't be participating in today's banquet after hearing that aresa said oh I see he added you also don't have to attend if you would like to rest then he said well I'm quite busy now I'll see you next time after he left caran asked what will you do are you going to go to work she replied yeah I'll just show up for a short while caran asked but is he really working during the foundation Day holiday aresa

thinks in her mind per perhaps what I said yesterday was a bit rash he's the Crown Prince so of course he would have thought about the nation's relationship with the kingdom of yet though I'm not sure if he really did that for me after Heron left from there he rushed to the prince he opened the door and hurriedly said your highness the first report regarding each kingdom has arrived the prince quickly replied bring it to me he ordered make sure to lock down this room and forbid anyone from coming in after they settled the documents

he asked now Where Do We Begin Heron answered the kingdoms of Sono and soapa as the prince was analyzing the reports Heron said your highness shouldn't you at least warn lady aresa about this he asked why should I Haron explained if she understands our plan she might be able to help against the princesses the prince replied I was scolded just as you saw Heron continued but as a subject of this nation as he said that the prince looked at him furiously Heron said she had to say something like he didn't continued as he saw Prince

Furious he said forgive me you don't like me calling her a subject and you don't want to get her involved I get it then the prince analyzed the remaining reports later at the banquet aresa apologized to Moira I sincerely apologize princess Moira Moira said it wasn't your fault I was humiliated because I was greedy for something that was supposed to be yours aresa said I will take responsibility and make sure those comfortable rumors stopped spreading it is my duty to watch over them yet I didn't perform my role properly lady Ilia and other ladies were

surprised from Lady arista's action aresa added I'm sure you must be hurt but please do wipe your tears and forgive them with A Generous Heart Moira grits her teeth as she heard that then she turned and started walking saying it's fine I'm tired so excuse me arista's mind raced I didn't think the incident with princess moira's shoes would turn the atmosphere here so hostile then lady Ilia came to her and said I apologize lady arestia I was careless I couldn't stop the rumor and people even talked in front of the princess you shouldn't have bowed

to that arrogant princess aresa said I'm all right lady Ayah lady Karina added but did you see how Shameless the princess was she was humiliated yesterday but she's still so hoty and now she's acting like an innocent victim in front of everyone hearing that aresa said I won't ask you to stop talking about others behind their backs but we vow our loyalty to his majesty do remember that our mistakes can result in a loss for this Empire and the royal family she addressed towards Karina I'm sure you understand what I mean lady Karina she replied

I I do lady aresa then lady Sharia asked Lady aresa where are you going asterisk she replied pardon me and Ty Catherine I want to be alone for a moment as she was walking back she saw Carson caran what a surprise he's actually working diligently I thought he was always complaining but he gets the job done when he needs to well he did become a knight because he wanted to as she was walking to a corridor she thinks the knights will be patrolling at this hour I should find somewhere nice and quiet she walked towards

the garden thinking I wonder if the garden at ver Palace has finally been restored after the fire I couldn't go inside since it was under construction but it's open today she went to the garden and said it's changed so much in the time I couldn't visit H aresa saw Prince lying besides the tree on the ground sleeping she gets shocked to see the prince lying there she quickly asks concerned your highness your highness are you feeling y the prince opened his eyes you why are you here she replied you seen Dill so I came in

even though I know I shouldn't the prince said I came out here since it was a bit stuffy inside aresa said but you look so pale your highness as she standed up to walk the prince stopped her he said I'm all right really I'm not sick but Arisa didn't stop and said I'll get the Royal doctor right away the prince grabbed her hand and said wait just will you stay with me for a while she complied and sits beside him she thought he's always overly neat but now he looks so untidy he must be ill

right looking at her he said you must have gone to the ball today as well since you're wearing that she replied replied yes your highness he asked you could have rested but was it fun remembering her encounter with Moira she replied oh yes he said you don't look like you enjoyed it you say I'm pale but it's not like you look that good either did something happen during the ball she replied not at all your highness there's nothing you need to concern yourself with he looks at her and doesn't say anything then aresa stands up

and looks at the Garden ah the garden has almost fully recovered but the flowers on this tree still haven't bloomed the prince added it probably hasn't recovered from the fire yet since it was burnt at the bottom she said right I wonder when then the prince then said would you like to take a look while flustered after hearing that she replied pardon no I'm all right your highness the prince pointed towards Heron and the Knight saying there's no need to be humble you want to see it yourself right the servants brought a stair and placed

it besides the tree aresa climbed the stairs holding the prince hand looking at the branches she thinks as I thought I don't see any silver flowers she noticed H those are flower buds I didn't know since the tree was so tall how long have they been there she said your highness there are flower buds here the prince was surprised for a moment oh but then he said no those buds have been there for several years then aresa asked will the flowers bloom soon it must be close right the prince wasn't able to answer well aresa

felt a little down I see it's been like this for years then we would have to wait another several years no the prince added well perhaps as the prince wasn't able to say anything both of them felt awkward then she starts to get down oh I'm so embarrassed I should get down now her foot slipped and she starts falling the prince shouted be care while trying to catch her he caught her from falling to the ground Esa said thank you your highness I'm all right now so you can put me down after that he said

you don't seem to be afraid of me anymore now unlike before you don't avoid my eyes she doesn't say anything huh then they both looks towards the tree the prince said the buds should Bloom when the time is right as long as the buds are there they will Bloom marvelously one day whenever that time may be we will just have to wait and the flowers that will finally Bloom will be beautiful and worth the wait the next day caran was looking outside from the window while complaining it was such a clear day yesterday but it's

only morning now and the sky is so bloomy aresa added it might rain in the evening she said thank goodness we're working inside today otherwise we would be standing on guard in the rain carian said I know looking from the window he saw his brother and prinia walking outside aresa continued and the castle where the princesses are staying should be be fine ciran is in charge after all caran replied while feeling concerned ye yeah well I suppose suddenly someone called her aresa it was alenis aresa said alandis what brings you to the knight's office peeking

from the door he said I had some extra time so I came to see how my lady was doing caran said Administration must be real nice since you're enjoying a break instead of working alenis told yes well I'm done with most of my work so I can rest a bit pointing towards caran he said and that's because I'm quite smart unlike this carrot head in front of me caran furiously asked oh do you want to test that theory alenis showed chess board in his hands 10 minutes later caran toppled everything in anger and shouted I

was at a disadvantage since this is your hobby don't think you won with this you Weed Head let's do with swords this time Allan disc countered I thought you wanted to prove that you were smart aresa said caran how about you learn how to play chess from alenis he shouted how could I he left while lashing out darn it I can't do this aresa asked where are you going he said I feel like I'm going to explode if I keep looking at your face so I'm going to go drink some water after he left Allen

is felt relieved F it's finally quiet now that eyesore is gone he then showed a box to aresa and said actually I came here because I wanted to give this to you aresa said ribbons this many he said I didn't know which color you would prefer they're all yours she said what will I do with you Alan you always give me more than I deserve and you don't hold back at all he said I'll take that as a compliment then Arista sat down and alen dis brushed her hair he said Tia why don't we go

into town later the Town Festival will continue a few days more even after the holiday she replied really I saw it in passing once it looked fun he asked then letun go together it's a promise she agreed all right she then thinks it's quiet today is so peaceful as if what happened yesterday was a dream Alan's hands are so gentle she dozed off alenis called her Tia he then noticed her bare neck at first he tried to grab it then stopped in the middle Arista opened her eyes oh did I fall asleep she then looked

towards the window and saw alenis in the reflection Allan I saw him what do I do he quickly turned saying Allan you know she stopped in the middle he said don't make that face Tia I didn't say anything to you yet she began wait Tai alenis spoke I should get going now I've left my desk for too long now then Tia take care that you don't catch a cold see you later he left after saying that aresa said to herself Allan what should I do with you even though you smile like that it's pitiful to

see you avoiding my words meanwhile outside carian asked what took you so long in there alenis replied it's none of your business why don't you drink the rain that's about to come caran said do you have to talk like that then they saw the prince coming towards them a knight went to aresa Squire aresa are you busy at the moment she replied no but what brings a royal guard here he told His Highness is currently inspecting the palace if you're not busy he would like to visit you for a bit she asked in here she

started walking I'll go to him please lead the way she went to the prince greetings your highness the future son of the Empire the prince said well then let's walk for a bit he asked are you still determined to succeed your house she replied yes your highness I am still determined to do so he glanced towards her and said I see she thought huh that's it I thought this was about something urgent she then said your highness didn't you the prince noticed something and shush her to keep quiet sure there were two people in the

garden whispering to each other aresa asked your highness did you allow someone to enter this Garden he replied no whoever it is must be very brave Haron whispered to her that's princess beatric Delisa and her personal guard your highness aresa whispered back the princess of Lisa looking at her aresa thinks she's always been timid and never stood out yet she came into the prince's Palace without permission did she decide to be bold now that the festivities for foundation day are almost over princess beatric said to her guard there are just 2 days left now ran

I felt like I've been walking on thin ice for the past month I've been staying quiet so that I don't stand out and everything should be over by tomorrow her guard said you've done well Tris if I'd known earlier I wouldn't have let you suffer like this beatric said perhaps this was for the best and for this child too once we leave the Border let's run away together ran let's live together the three of us when nobody can find us the prince and aresa gets shocked after hearing that her guard called her Tris and they

hugged each other aresa thinks in her mind oh no what was the kingdom of Lisa Thinking by sending her they sent a princess who is already pregnant with another man's child to be the prince's fiance but the Crown Prince himself just found out the truth and if the other Nobles find out this could lead to a war with the kingdom of Lisa he must be really mad right she glanced towards the prince and he was in deep thoughts he was level-headed looking at the situation soon the rain started falling aresa said your highness we should

go inside the prince puts his coat on aresa and said right letun go inside he started walking aresa said your highness I shouldn't do this by custom a knight must not not avoid the rain when wearing a knight's uniform moreover I can't let you get wet the prince filled in when you're looking like that she said what's wrong with my she looked at herself and realized she felt embarrassed oh the prince looked embarrassed and blushed at the same time while walking back she said thank you your highness after they get inside Heron commanded to the

servants prepare his bath right away the prince said to aresa come to my study after you warm yourself up he then said you Knights too go and rest they replied we are fine your highness the prince said why are all these Knights so stubborn it would be a dishonor if you didn't look after your own health and failed to carry out your tasks leave now and rest that's an order they complied we are honored your highness aresa thinks in her mind while taking bath the kingdom of Lisa they have a very strong Army if this

really turns into a war the Empire will also suffer Gravely but it's too important of an issue to Simply ignore it a fiance candidate who has a child with her guard what does His Highness plan to do later the prince said I have something in mind but I must discuss this matter with my father first so will you keep it a secret until tomorrow she replied yes of course your highness looking at him she thinks that's a surprise I thought he'd say that it's none of my business in the past he wouldn't care even if

I got drenched in the Rain the prince said you were in the rain for a while so it would be better for you to rest instead of attending the ball he gives her a present she replied yes your highness final day of foundation Day Celebrations looking at the dress Lena said my lady it looks so good on you the dress and The Jewels look like they were made for you Taylor added His Highness sent such a marvelous gift when her father looked at her he said I knew my daughter was beautiful but you look so

Splendid today that I'm at a loss for words she felt blushed oh papa she thinks in her mind when did His Highness have the time to prepare this and the shoes these are different from the ones that princess Moira received her father said we must thank His Highness later Lena added you should let your hair down today arestia then said ah I have a guest waiting for me so please hurry Lena arestia went to Lady Ilia and said I apologize for making you wait lady Ilia I'm surprised that you came here in person lady Ilia

Genoa what did you want to talk to me about she thought Ilia jenoa what does she wish to discuss this early in the morning even though we're in the same faction we both know that we don't like each other Ilia took a sip of tea and then said I'm not very good at speaking in a roundabout manner so I'll get straight to my point she began how long do you plan on letting those princesses roam free your father is the emperor's most trusted subject and you are also The Faded one of the prophecy if you

disagreed with this from the beginning the princesses wouldn't even be here the princesses are openly looking down on you after last time they're simply candidates yet they're undermining a future Empress why do you let them disrespect you aresa gets surprised by her words she said lady Ilia I have to say that after hearing what you've told me it sounds like you're worried about me didn't you all dislike my presence I thought you would be happy if I was taken down as the future empress Ilia kept quiet for a moment then began of course you would

think so but lady Karina sair and her friends aren't my supporters to be exact they just use me as an excuse to complain I do not have the power to control them arist had thought a lack of power she must have put down her pride in order to say that as a lady of a noble house I thought of her as incapable when she couldn't stop lady Karina's gossip but in fact she understood everything however she couldn't resolve it so she chose to restrain herself she then stands up and gets close to aresa Lady aresa

LA Monique I've been waiting for you to show yourself in High Society she bowed to aresa after a few moments while leaving Ilia said please don't misunderstand lady aresa we never wanted you to be taken down and that includes me and Lady Karina sair aresa said I see you just didn't like me as a person right there's nothing we can do if our personalities Clash she replied I won't deny that I hope you will safely overcome this the ladies of the imperialists are on your side and are ready to support you after saying that she

left in the carriage after reaching the palace the emperor asked her lady aresa who do you think would be the best candidate for the prince's fiance pardon she asked came the response you've seen them all in person so I'd like to hear your opinion in my opinion aresa replied after a brief pause I believe princess darua is the most suitable she is very calm and wise I'm sure she would be a trustworthy aid for the Empire and for Prince Rives the emperor chuckled haha I see so that's what you think well then I'll take that

into consideration by the way you look Splendid today aresa but you seem to be missing something pardon she said again confused at that moment the king presented her with a tiara is that a tiara aresa stammered her father asked why are are you bestowing such an accessory that is only allowed to be worn by members of the royal family there's no other intention behind it the king said calmly I just thought lady aresa should have more on her head aresa looked serious prompting the king to reassure her all right I'll explain so don't look so

serious I've already heard about the princess of yit the aristocrats will grow more aggressive don't they always attack lady arisa's ambiguous position whatever may happen after she becomes an adult lady lady aresa is still named the future Empress as such it would be better to openly announce her position for now after a slight pause the emperor continued however Kiran you do realize they won't stand still when we announce what we've discussed yesterday don't you the king's gaze was firm do know that I am doing this to protect lady aresa I understand your majesty her father

replied the king addressed aresa now come closer he said placing the Tiara gently on her head good it fits you perfectly I am honored your majesty your highness aresa said softly then Heron came to the prince and said your highness the preparations are done the prince replied all right Heron added today is the last day are you sure you can do it your highness of course came The Confident reply later Moira said I will be the empress I won't let all the support you've shown our kingdom go to waste I can't lose to a little

brat like her the prince is mine she saw aresa walking and noticed the Tiara she and Duke Zena both gets shocked she shouted that's how dare you at that moment there was a loud bang is there something you need me for aresa turned to see Duke Zena and Princess Moira approaching their expression severe are you really asking that out of ignorance Duke said his voice was laced with disdain Moira said lady aresa do you know what you have on your head right now how dare air daughter of a marquis wear a crown that is only

worn by members of the royal family the young ladies from Imperial faction quickly surrounds aresa as to protect her Arista was surprised by their action Duke Zena began even if you're a young child wearing a tiara meant for Royals is unforgivable in our kingdom it's treason if someone not of the royal family wears a tiara I didn't know the empire was so forgiving about such Customs princess Nea said his Royal Highness must have a lot of concerns Prince ver said indeed his spouse is so young and foolish Mira said is this your revenge because I

took your present how nice to hide behind others who are willing to defend you as tensions escalated Ilia spoke with conviction you've been disrespectful from the beginning you're all here as candidates for the prince's fiance aren't you yet you've been frequenting the prince's castle without notice or consent from Lady aresa the future Empress regardless of your position one should not purpose disturb His Highness and his duties such behavior is enough to be disqualified as a candidate and weren't you greatly humiliated for wanting something that should have been given to lat aresa and that wasn't all

you were punished for your own deed yet you used that rumor to humiliate lady aresa is turn that is not how a princess of a kingdom sh bav moira's face Twisted in Anger how dare you speak to me like that she raised her hand at Ilia but aresa quickly grabbed her hand lady Arista someone cried as Moira reached out aggressively everyone was shocked do not lay a hand on my People Princess Moira Arista commanded Moira shouted let go how dare you go against me a princess I should be the empress instead of someone like you

at that moment Prince rivus entered this is quite the spectacle he said the room fell silent your highness this is Moira began but the prince Cut Her Off he unhanded both of them and said I apologize I should have expected this but I didn't think thoroughly enough Moira said your highness that lady humiliated me I'm so dustra the prince said princess Moira I refuse to welcome a candidate who encourages trouble you should return to your kingdom your highness I am innocent that woman was the one who laid a hand on me first Moira protested I've

been watching from the beginning the prince said coldly yet you decide to make up an excuse he turned to the gathered crowd since everyone is already here I will announce this now I will not choose any of these five princesses as my fiance your highness what is the meaning of this came the protests it is unjust to have the princesses come all the way here only to be rejected you cannot do this this is unacceptable others exclaimed didn't you already promise to choose one you cannot go back on your word now everyone was surprised by

his decision the prince's tone grew firm as he replied house Monique has pledged their loyalty to the royal family did you really think lady aresa would wear the Tiara for no reason this is an order from my father Duke Zena interjected but your highness you made a vow with us that you would choose a fiance the prince remained Resolute I shall announce my reasoning so listen carefully he said that holding a detailed book his explanation unveiled the truths about each princess actions driven by power luxury and pleasure leaving everyone shocked Prince darua second princess of

the kingdom of Rua she responded gracefully oh my am I going to be discussed as well I understand I will gladly step down as a candidate the prince then turned to beatric deisa fifth princess of the kingdom of Lisa she said I I renounce my right so please your highness she stammered not that I understand he said however people will hear of this soon you should prepare yourself then he addressed princess Moira diit with a Stern tone in particular you are not acceptable but you already know why Duke Zena he throws the book towards the

Duke the Duke looks at the details and stammered this is how then the emperor came and said I would be troubled if you underestimate us so much Duke Zena then he turned towards prinia princess prince darua you were here to discuss an alliance with us from the beginning I believe you will be quite satisfied with this result after our secret negotiations over the past month is that right of course your majesty our King will be very pleased indeed replied prinia then Emperor said thank you the Empire will send a delegation soon prinia looked towards aresa

and smiled Arista a thinks in her mind princess prin I see being a candidate was a disguise that's why she was never hostile towards me then the emperor turned to beatric princess beatric Lisa you say you would give up your right as a candidate is that the decision of the kingdom of Lisa as well that's she faltered the emperor continued considering the heinous act you've committed you should be thankful that the Empire isn't demolishing your nation right now don't you agree she felt pressured yes your majesty the emperor said we will send an envo to

the kingdom of Lisa soon so you may stay here in the Empire until then the emperor then addressed Moira now princess Moira y house Zena has transferred a significant amount of wealth to the kingdom of Y I wonder what was the meaning of this trade the Empire's law forbids transferring wealth to a foreign Nation violating this is a heavy crime his voice was calm but cold but don't worry he continued it isn't right to be so strict in matters concerning others I bestowed The Tiara because I care for my future daughter-in-law I'm sure Duke Zena

was thinking the same for our future alliance with the kingdom of yet right the Duke duke paed it couldn't be that you were thinking of sending reinforcements to the kingdom of Y together with the kingdom of Lisa to invade Rua surely this trade wouldn't concern sharing any information regarding the royal family to princess Moira I believe none of this was done to sway Prince rues the emperor's mention of the names Quil hi highle and Laurel houses executed 10 years ago served as a final warning to those present he asked am I right the Duke replied

indeed your majesty then the emperor said great I was worried about what I'd have to do if I were wrong the emperor added with finality all candidates are disqualified or have resigned from their position so no one will be chosen at this time aresa pondered the implications that is how ruler governs casil H highle and Laurel houses executed 10 years ago the emperor mentioning their names must be a final warning if I weren't from house Monique the emperor wouldn't have allowed such a long postponement even then he would have made me wed the prince right

away if that was what he needed he was being generous more than I deserve the emperor concluded now then let us all enjoy the last day of our foundation Day Celebrations despite his reputation as a wise ruler aresa recalled his past ruthlessness later in private the emperor remarked my dear I wasn't trying to surprise you forgive me Your Majesty aresa replied still taken aback you seem to take after after your father as time goes by you used to follow me around so much when you were little I'm a bit sad pardon she exclaimed you would

walk towards me with your clumsy feet when I carried you in my arms you'd laugh and pull my hair he reminisced it was back in the day arestia reflected on his kindness he is so kind and gentle to me so why does he treat His Highness that way your majesty she asked cautiously if you weren't going to name anyone why did you allow the princesses to visit in the first place I simply wanted to respect ru's decision he replied it was the prince's decision arestia realized the weight of the situation through this decision the Empire

managed to keep the aristocrats in check broke the alliance between yit and Lisa and strengthened their bond with Rua they had gained much from one decision still aresa wondered but isn't princess prinia a perfect match the emperor said as you said she is rare indeed if she became fiance our alliance with Ru would be strong and she would support him with her insightful advice regarding politics he told so I asked RK opinion the prince said I will not name anyone as my fiance the emperor then said you seem confused there's still time so think about

it she reflected on ru's calm logical demeanor there's no way he wouldn't have noticed how insightful princess prinia is so why reject everyone her thoughts turned to The Tiara the pink dress jewels and shoes that he gave me and Thea with pink Jewels bestowed by the emperor they seem to be a set made together beforehand could it be do you like it a voice interrupted her thoughts your highness aresa turned to him could it be that you prepared this Tiara your highness she asked hesitantly but why would you bestow something so precious to me he

nodded because you are my fiance I had them prepared beforehand but I wanted to know your thoughts first according to the agreement there's still some time left won't you reconsider your decision aresa taken a back could only stammer your your highness the prince added I hope you would looking at him aresa thought is this person in front of me really the one that I used to know he hesitates when he reaches out his hand to me when he requests something of me or even when he asks about my thoughts and feelings is this really him

but you will go to June when she appears so even if you asked me to stay with you now the prince continued whenever you look at me I feel that you're comparing me to someone else I'm not sure if they're the ones that I'm thinking of or someone else but won't you look at me as I am you've watched me until now so I hope you'll understand that this is my true self as he left Arista thought what he said was right I've been comparing him to the past all this time why did I do

that what for after a while Cajun proposed to prinia please marry me your highness no prinia the moment I met you I was stunned by your beauty and when I saw how kind and gentle you were to everyone I started falling for you and when I saw how bold and elegant you were even during arguments with other princesses my heart was completely captured by you aresa and her colleagues were shocked at his proposal caran said Cajun what are you doing all of a sudden aresa shush him to keep quiet Cajun continued I considered giving up

since I thought we weren't meant to be but in the end I couldn't though our meeting may have been short please do not think that my feelings for you are fleeting I admire you with all my heart prinia she replied sir Cajun I cannot accept this proposal Cajun was shocked at her rejection aresa thought oh no sir Cajun what a pity they look so good together prin added I don't want to get married without even dating someone first that's unacceptable Cajun said your highness she continued perhaps an engagement would work why don't we decide after

we start seeing each other Cajun you may call me Ren he calls out her name Ren looking at them the prince said I feel like I've helped someone else unwittingly he then walks to them and said sirun you will be on leave for a week so go and escort the princess on her way back for a few days it's not much but bear with it for now you will be part of the delegation that will visit the kingdom of ru later looking at them aresa thinks in her mind they must be ecstatic I probably won't

be able to love someone with such innocence like that again I won't be able to return anyone's love even then and I'll keep comparing the past to the present and drown in confusion I'll just feel suspicious and uneasy I'll always be afraid of being abandoned again she then said letun go back carian caran was still confused huh she said everyone already left we should go back too you didn't know either did you that your brother would propose he said yeah I did think he was acting weird but I didn't expect him to do something on

that scale while walking she noticed did a pebble get stuck under my heel noticing that caran extends his hand for help aresa said huh oh thanks she then asked carian what's wrong he said beautiful lady please won't you give me the chance to serve you she gets flustered h Huh you and I he pulled her close aresa still surprised and Confused asked hey what are you doing C caran Saran flicked her forehead and said hey don't act so surprised I know I'm cool but if you get all serious it's just embarrassing aresa saidou playing a

prank on me again he said well you were looking at those two with such admiration I thought maybe this was what you wanted she said that's not true caran said right right are you mad little one she protested I'm not a little one the prince was observing them from a distance and then he left after a few days aresa went out with alenis to town he said Tia hurry over here while following him she said wait Alan walk a bit slower he said it's the last day so we have to hurry if we want to

see it all looking around she said wow amazing alenis asked this is very different from the balls at the palace right and there's so much to see while excited she said you're right this looks like so much fun pointing towards the people alenis said see there Tia there's a Street band playing music let's go after enjoying their music for some time alen this asked would you like to dance my lady while surprised she asked huh here he pulled her towards himself aresa said but I don't know this song He said you can dance however you

like here people commented looking good oh my what an adorable couple after the dance the saw announcement board the renowned Shadow theater will have its last performance today what's a Shadow theater Tia wondered aloud we'll find out once we go in right Allan replied they entered the theater half of the stage was covered how will they perform in such a small area Tia thought curious a shadow loomed in her thoughts I can't shake it off no matter how hard I try the the shadow of the past always follows me I wonder if my life is

like the play Allan noticed her expression what's wrong he asked what would someone with a shadow have to do if they wanted to escape from it she mused H something like this he said squeezing her close aresa said still this is only temporary the person can't avoid the light forever but Tia isn't that sad for the shadow he continued because the Shadow's very existence is being denied after hearing that she thinks I see perhaps denying my memories of the past is like denying my past self she realized alenis said I'm jealous of the Shadow actually

what does a shadow mean to you Alan she asked well let's see Allan began but the performance started cutting him off the theater lit up and a voice announced thank you to everyone who is here to watch The Shadow theater on the last day of the foundation Day Celebrations a bright flash Illuminating the white screen and the actors began their performance using only Shadows it was a play about a beautiful young Maiden from a small town the maiden rejected many love proposals from several men until one day she fell in love with a man who

sent her letters even though she didn't know what he looked like no matter how long she waited the man of the letters never appeared before her he was a young and handsome Noble from a neighboring town but he couldn't show himself because he was an illegitimate child oh if it wasn't for the this wretched blood the man lamented the Shadows danced with the flickering light giving them an odd sense of Life the man's feeble older brother fell in love with the maiden at First Sight and their father decided to help his eldest marry her should

I kill him if not for my brother she would be mine the younger brother thought but his love for his brother stopped him no my brother has been dear to me since I was young how could I the man tried to confess his feelings to the maiden but was showered in dirty water right in front of her and turned back unable to confess the day of the wedding between his brother and the Maiden arrived in despair the man threw himself off a cliff be happy my dear loved ones I will shower you all with my

flowers of blessing his voice echoed in the theater the audience was stunned and they clapped as the play ended Tia whispered that was a sad but beautiful story right Alan Allan Allan Tia called oh huh all right shall we go now Tia he said snapping out of his thoughts outside Tia held the flower she had received during the performance you've been staring at that flower all this time do you like it that much Alan asked well it's my first time receiving a flower she admitted I'm going to take it home she smiled aren't you hungry

Tia letun go eat he suggested she agreed all right later Allan presented her with a bouquet a gift for you I wanted to be the first one to give you a bouquet of flowers thank you Alan they're so pretty she exclaimed my dear lady there's something I want to tell you Allan said as he kneeled I like you Tia from the moment I met you I've been so captivated that I couldn't take my eyes off of you hey Allan Tia whispered taking a back won't you accept me when you become the heir of your house

one day I don't care when that time comes but if you'll be my dear lady forever I can wait as long as you need declared Tia's heart achd she thought so this day has finally come I already knew alenis that you had feelings for me even before I saw that reflection in the window I knew recalling the past she thinks you're the first friend I made after going back in time you were a young boy with green hair like the buds that bloom in Spring you cried and laughed with me you were everything to me

along with my father however this glass heart shaped by unconditional loyalty in the end she faltered she began alenis I don't want to lose you but I don't want to lie to you either you know Alan Allan just cut her off it's fine we should stop talking about this you can give me your answer another time letun go back now it's late Allan wait Tia called as Alan began to walk away Marquis Monique will surely be upset with me letun hurry Allan replied avoiding her gaze Allan listen to me she pleaded it's all my fault

because I was selfish I didn't give you an answer I was afraid that you might leave me I am she paused her voice breaking she said in her mind my dear precious friend you're the first one to give me flowers she said I am really sorry Alan I will only hurt you she said inwardly when I became 10 again I was suddenly showered with love from my father and I wanted to hide inside that shell but that's when a boy appeared later that day at night Lena and other servants were calling arestia my lady my

lady what's wrong are you not feeling well my lady please open the door her father was also worried Tia it's me what happened open the door please his voice softened Tia is this something you can't even talk to me about he interjected leave her alone for a while Arista was in her thought recalling the past events I remember the day he looked at me with those brilliant emerald eyes greetings lady aresa I am alenis deita he dragged me out into the real world when I was alone Alan was the first one to become my friend

I Alan d verita promised to aresa La Monique to serve you forever as my lady dear aresa will you accept my oath wow now you're really my lady he said with a bright smile to me Allan was like my brother my family and my only friend I followed him without question because he comforted me so warmly but a glass heart built on unconditional loyalty is fragile and that's why our relationship was bound to shatter when we met again I realized it my world would no longer revolve around Allen as I learned to stand on my

own many people with different values began to fill my life I was happy thanks to him but at the same time my heart never skipped for him some time ago aresa said to alenis sorry I'm sorry Allan stop your lip is bleeding why did you bite down on it so hard it looks painful his voice was gentle but his eyes betrayed his pain I'll walk you back let me do that at least he said but Alan you're the one who looks like you're in pain she thought to herself back to the present she thinks I

had no right to cry in front of him I had done something cruel to protect my own heart she said aloud I'm sorry Alan her father who was standing outside her door heard that he thinks looks like she finally came to a conclusion with alenis later in her room aresa looked at the chest pieces and thought the pieces look like they're alive just like the Shadow theater earlier today she remembered after we finished our daily training outside we played chess together Allan always used the bishop as his weapon while I gravitated toward the rook and

knight checkmate he declared during one game I've won 78 times out of 78 games aresa said said don't remember something like that why can't I win even once is it because you're a genius and I'm not um that's probably not the only reason he teased Tia you tend to obsess over the rook and Knight I do she asked you'll never win against me like that he said with a SCE smile she said you're telling me I have to suffer from 78 losses forever why don't you try utilizing the other pieces more he suggested you could

try using the bishop like me and you also have the Queen the strongest of them all Allan letun play one more time she exclaimed determined sure sure he said this time the game ended differently that's a draw it's a draw right she exclaimed pointing at the board oh it's true he agreed aresa was happy I won for the first time after 79 games see so many things can change when you try using the other pieces Allan said with a proud grin this might become your main weapon from now on he remarked maybe I shouldn't have

taught you this me using the White Queen she wondered aloud you're wrong Alan she said this piece doesn't suit me how could I use this piece all I have is The Rook like a castle that won't open no matter who comes sturdy so it won't crumble until the real queen arrives I want to stay in the corners of the game I want to hide in the shadows forever she said to herself Ellen why did you fall for such a coward like me later Alexis asked how are you feeling father I'm feeling much better Alexis I

read this book today he replied I like that one too she said all right then letun talk about it together have some of this T Alex meanwhile Allan's thoughts lingered Tia you were all that I needed greetings sir alenis aresa said recalling the past I am Arista La Monique when I met you I recognized it right away you were hiding some Twisted feelings in your eyes that didn't suit such a young child from the moment I discovered our similarities I wanted to have you so much no matter what he recalled the past I happened to

hear about you by chance that day it was the last opportunity given to me at that time he saw his father saying to his wife Dear about kiran's daughter what do you think about her as Alexa bride his mother was surprised Marquis kiran's daughter wasn't she chosen to be Prince Ruess fiance how could you say such a thing someone might misunderstand and think we're conspiring against the empire his father replied I see looks like I said something unnecessary Allen dis thought Prince ress fiance my father is a cold objective man yet he chose to mention

it does that mean the promised engagement between house Monique and the royal family might not happen he sarcastically said what a LOF dream he thought he wants the next Empress to be a bride for that stupid weak Alexis actually that cunning father of mine might have already started some small tricks to purposely draw them apart like praising the other one too much allendis was deep in thought what did he like about her he's eager to ostracize even his own child if he doesn't like something yet someone like him wants her to be in his family

he recalled I still remember it clearly he him self was called the Genius of the Empire but it took him a long time to solve that formula yet the expression he showed when a 5-year-old child solved it easily he remembered my parents only adore Alexis and my brother Smiles innocently in ignorance I hated them all I even hated my mind which wouldn't let me forget while Wasing he resolved I'd rather take her myself than let Alexis have her and if I get to marry her the family title will be passed on to me the reason

I went to see you was partially due to jealousy when alenis first met aresa he thought her curly hair glowed softly and her dreamy eyes seemed to shut out reality I like that it was the first time I could have a conversation with someone around my age he asked aresa do you know about the luxury tax that was just implemented after arestia told him he jumped I knew it my guess was right you must be a true genius I'm so amazed I heard you just turned 10 this year aresa flinched and backed away at his

sudden approach aresa said um sir seeing that he said just call me alenis seeing her reaction Allen's thought this child is like me especially when she looks up at her father with those eyes the Raging Obsession that lurked beneath they were the eyes of Yearning from those like me who haven't been loved what if she looks at me with those eyes if that Madness and blind Obsession were directed at me it would surely feel insanely Splendid I want that later when they trained he said I'll go inside first come in when you're done arestia replied

oh all right I'll be right there it was allendis who placed the book with oath in the shelves he was thinking at that time I will have her no matter what show that Obsession and Madness to me he remembered when she found that book we had this kind of book he said oh I know this one it's about an oath between a lady and her Knight right then he took the oath in front of aresa be my lady because I'm willing to swear a fake oath if you want my lovely lady doll later alanus poured

the tea to the ground and said to the maid again she complied yes young Master he thought idiot she can't even brew a simple cup of tea properly my lady must be with the Crown Prince right now he remembered aresa saying I'm sorry alenis I have to go to the Imperial Palace today he thinks in his mind how annoying the prince doesn't seem interested in her anyway but if by chance the prince notices this immense Beauty he took a sip of tea as he was thinking about aresa he dropped that cup of tea and shouted

to the maid you can't even do this properly the maid begged I'm sorry Young Master please forgive me he shouted get out he then resolved this won't do I must train her so that she sticks to me more she refrained from even touching me before but now she's used to my touch I'll train her so she can never get away from me again little by little she started to show them to me those signs of obsession and madness he then said out loud I want to drink the tea my lady bruis perhaps it was because

of that anxiousness as another time his father came and said his majesty has ordered that you come with me to oversee the relief operation after hearing that Allen this thought the emperor must have noticed that I've been visiting house Monique every day darn it seeing his father's dejected face he thinks he's looking at me as if I deserve this I thought I'd prove my worth there and build a reputation in preparation for the day I would have her follow me but when I returned the next spring there were more enemies and when I became over

overcome with uncontrollable jealousy that was when I realized it I thought I'd captured the girl in my cage but in fact I was the one who was captured by her and even that I didn't find so bad he then remembered caran saying I'm telling you that weed head is really weird Arista reprimanded him it's not good to speak ill of someone I'll pretend that I didn't hear that caran hearing that Allen's thought she is my lady she swore an oath only with me even though more people were starting to look at her keep looking at

me and yearn for me I thought everything was going as planned just like how I feel toward you I didn't know that I would commit a grave mistake due to the uneasiness That Grew From the soil of obsession alenis gazed at aresa and said you're wearing a dress that is made to match another man and you're dancing in the arms of that man look at me Tia look at me who only yearns for you please don't leave me meanwhile elsewhere an aristocrat approached allendis Lord allendis how long will you live under the shadow of your

brother everyone in the Empire knows that you are better than him so how about it join us Aristocrats and we will promise you the title of Duke alenis considered the offer thinking to himself I'm not pleased that I have to help the foolish and weak Aristocrats but it's the best way to get rid of Marquis Monique and take my lady without any obstacles however unlike me who was thinking like that in order to recover from my one mistake you began to stand by yourself without me you were surrounded by more people and he was the

one person that I hoped would never know but he noticed how beautiful you are what do I have to do now I know that your obsession directed at me is no longer there I swallowed the despair disguised as hope and gave you a ribbon with a Lover's flower secretly embroidered inside in the end all I can be is your sh Shadow I can't be a star that shines by your Moonlight Tia I can't live without you now I'm going crazy because I can't let go of you later aresa came outside of her room she said

I'm sorry he father said it's fine since you came out now I know something upsetting happened to you and that you didn't want to talk about it so I won't Force you and ask you about it she hugged her father and thought inwardly perhaps I'll never be able to smile and talk with Alan again again but Allan at least know this we may not share the same feelings but you are still precious to me along with my father I'm grateful to you for being my first friend you're a kind person who warmed my frozen heart

the eventful Foundation Day Celebrations came to an end and summer began the knights prepared a mock battle to strengthen their unity and reorganize their strategy Duke arant and Marquis Kiran talked nearby where the knights mcdels were happening the Duke said I hear the princess of yet made quite a scene when she left it must have been a spectacle judging by her personality thanks to the trouble the aristocrats made we now have the kingdoms of Lisa and Rua under our influence I hope Duke Zeno will quiet down now didn't his majesty give the Duke a final

warning he did it for your daughter too Marquis said I wonder he thinks I'm not sure if he will step back during the night's mock battle Tia stood out one night said looks like the match is over another added wow that was excellent Squire aresa I must apologize for underestimating you it was a bit Reckless but a great strategy nonetheless you'll become an excellent advisor if you keep working hard Tia replied I am flattered Lieutenant it's all thanks to everyone working together after the match an announcement was made leader caran duras and nine others from

Squadron 13 of the first night Squad each of you will be given a sword and badge for your excellent display of bravery and strategy the prince put a badge on arista's uniform and said you did well she replied I am honored your highness Tia thought inwardly this is my first accomplishment as a knight I've been acknowledged a bit right after that Heron said to the prince your highness is something wrong I'm just feeling a little conflicted he admitted I'm happy that she is accomplishing so much but it leads to a path that moves further away

from me Heron said there's still some time left meanwhile Maris said Tia let's go home together today I'd like us to spend some time together since I haven't been able to accompany you lately Tia lit up with happiness really I'm so happy nearby the prince was watching he said Heron he complied do not worry I am meticulously carrying out your orders after that as aresa and caran were walking back he said today's Victory is all thanks to this genius Squadron leader here Tia interjected playfully caran I'm the one who came up with today's strategy carian

smirked yes and you could carry it out because I gave you my permission thank goodness that guard wasn't on their team otherwise they would have known about our plan carian added thinking about Seymour he knows how we tend to think Tia asked bab reminds me I haven't seen sir Seymour today I wonder if he's stationed in the inner Palace carian rolled his eyes and muttered looking towards allendis oh an annoying one incoming he called out hey you with the Weed Head you see this badge aren't I amazing this genius here just scored another accomplishment you

should watch out and alenis ignored him completely and walked away caran shouted hey you're completely ignoring me now after he left caran said I wonder what ped him off this time he then asked aresa did you two get into another fight aresa protested what do you mean another it's not like that meanwhile aresa and her father spent time together she asked where should we go first Papa Marquis Monique smiled I wonder is there anything you wish to buy Tia tugged his arm and asked do you not like this kind of stuff he replied of course

not I'm honored to be with my daughter Tia exclaimed let's go here they approached a shop and the Marquis noticed it was a Taylor shop isn't this a Taylor shop she asked welcome it's been a long time lady aresa a voice greeted warmly and this gentleman must be Marquis Kiran La Monique I am honored to be of service Madame Rosa at your disposal aresa smiled and said I'd like to order a few formal suits and some comfortable casual ones I see Madame Rosa replied with enthusiasm I will prepare for you my very best then the

servant guided please come this way aresa whispered to her father this Taylor shop is very popular lately her father said what's the occasion I thought we were buying dresses for you but father aren't you always wearing your uniform she teased her father blinked looking slightly caught offu I'm used to it he replied with a shrug Arista frowned playfully still I want to see you wear something more handsome occasionally he sighed but relented ha all right all right as they moved through the shop arisa's gaze wandered suddenly she heard The Whispers oh my what is he

doing here Whispers fluttered among the other patrons Marquis Kiran really he still looks so refined aresa thought I know everyone thinks it's a waste papa is so young and handsome but he's alone is he still not planning to get married again Madam Rosa asked what kind of fabric and design would you like what do you prefer father aresa asked her father said I don't know you can choose whatever you like she chuckled then don't complain later all right he nodded before addressing Madame Rosa since we're both here I'd like to order a formal outfit for

my daughter as well arista's eyes widened for me she asked surprised her father gestured to Madame Rosa discuss the details with my daughter with this in mind make sure to embroider the emblem of our house on the collar both Madame Rosa and aresa gasped the emblem of a house on the collar arisa's heart raced father you mean she caught her breath realizing what it symbolized that would signify one is the head of the household and the official Heir her voice trembled do you mean it but this is so sudden her father said I thought you

were ready when I saw you training today Tia when the situation requires it you may act as the head of the house if need be Tia's mind reeled I can represent the head of the house she thought her emotion swirled a mix of Pride and responsibility I didn't know he acknowledged me this much I should be happy right later as they left the shop her father remarked actually it's quite hot today isn't it esta replied you're right and it's only may this year's summer is going to be Troublesome meanwhile at the palace the prince said

to his father I shall excuse myself now please rest comfortably then murmurs of concern echoed in the Halls your highness I heard His Majesty collapsed the prince asked you're all here to see my father he felt slightly nauseous due to the sudden hot weather the Royal doctor said he'll recover by avoiding sunlight and eating healthy meals for a while there's no need to worry the tension eased as the Court members expressed relief I see I'm glad to know it wasn't anything serious well his majesty has always been healthy so there's nothing to worry about the

prince dismissed the group as such you may all leave and let my father rest comfortably Chancellor please stay behind for a moment he replied yes your highness once alone the prince spoke in a low voice send your people and locate the high priest tertius the chancellor stiffened your highness you mean the high priest the prince said bring the priest to the Palace immediately however be discreet do you understand the chancellor bowed deeply please do not worry after the Duke left Heron said your highness could it be that the prince stopped him do not say anything

Heron later aresa and her father wandered the streets together Papa I think we took the wrong path I think we've come too far let's go back her father seemed lost in thought his gaze fixed on a distant Point Papa arista's voice softened looking at him she thinks in a desolate alley Papa just kept staring straight ahead it feels like his soul isn't here at all she squeezed his arm and asked Papa what is it Kiran shook his head as if shaking off a memory it's nothing let's go back ARIS IA later asked Papa don't you

ever think of marrying again Kiran stopped in his tracks why are you bringing that up all of a sudden she took a deep breath it's been over 8 years since mother passed away you can't live by yourself for the rest of your life she thought I wonder what he would think if I told him how lonely he looked on the anniversary of her death her father's voice lowered tinged with old pain your mother may have passed away a long time ago but who would be able to fill that voice Tia's heart achd he devoted his

whole life to Mother Kiran continued in order to be with your mother I vowed on my blood to be loyal to the Royal Family do you understand what that means Tia he glanced at the alley they had just passed that alley just now that was where I First Met Your Mother arista's breath caught as he continued in a dark secluded alley with walls covered in writing it looked like a path nobody cared for she was surrounded by several men who were threatening her he smiled faintly the memory Vivid in his mind when she looked me

straight in the eyes and yelled don't just watch from there come help me kiran's voice softened as he spoke her name she was Jeremiah he continued at that time his majesty had just risen to the throne Noble houses battled against one another and people faced death if they let their guard down for even a moment political parties continued their ambushes and the common people lived miserable lives lacking any protection her father's expression darkened slightly Tia you know about the oath that's been passed down in our family don't you she replied yes papa there are three

ancient spells in the Empire one of them is the magic and the blood of house Monique The Blood Oath with the royal family The Vow cast on the heart is a promise to serve the royal family with unending loyalty it's a bond that proves the authority of the monarchy it's unknown whether the price for break taking that oath is death or something worse but the vow has bound house Monique to the monarchy for Generations kiran's voice turned reflective back then his majesty lacked strong support among the people and he sought The Blood Oath from me

but I hated the idea he continued our family is selled as the Empire's most loyal house thanks to that oath but to me without that oath our loyalty could be seen as questionable a vow that binds one's heart in exchange for a single wish is more like a curse forcing loyalty doesn't feel like true devotion does it his expression softened as he continued but that day I helped Jeremiah who was being threatened protecting her my heart fell for her without me even realizing it he then recalled do you remember the fire at her Palace aresa

nodded he told in the past your mother was just like you I rushed to the mansion after hearing about the fire and I found her commanding the servants quickly assessing the situation despite her small frame she was full of energy just like you it was then that I made my decision I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her even if it meant swearing The Blood Oath I had once despised Papa arista's voice was gentle filled with understanding she thought that's why he chose to live alone he devoted himself to mother and no

one else could ever take her place she said I'm sorry I was was too rash I didn't understand you or what happened to the two of you he said there's no need to apologize Tia you did nothing wrong her heart swelled with emotion they shared a love so deep I can't help but feel jealous of my mother who was cherished so much by one person still something feels off she asked my mother was part of Sonia the house of a baron how did you meet her in an alley Where commoners lived her father asked you

knew about your mother's family she told I came across the noble directory while researching remembering Duke Zena he said I'm sure you're concerned about what Duke Zena said you will understand everything when the time comes for now Tia please don't ask about it but Papa arestia hesitated she thought but he said mother was being threatened at that time he interrupted her gently but firmly Tia I may not have sworn a Blood Oath but there's one person I vowed to protect with my life and that's you Tia my lovely daughter I wish for nothing Meer than

this life I'm spending together with you her father's words left her speechless she looked at him her heart conflicted yet touched that's cunning Papa I can't ask you anything more if you say it like that meanwhile carian asked his father Papa what did you like about mother he raised an eyebrow playfully are you saying you don't acknowledge how Charming your mother was that's not what I meant caran guarded up he said brother was writing a letter to the princess he recalled where he was talking to his brother amazing so the eldest son of a Duke

is in a relationship instead of agreeing to an arranged marriage this is going down in the history of our family Cajun said huh what are you talking about mother and father were lovers before they got married you didn't know caran was shocked after hearing that his brother continued well many do think they were an arranged marriage after saying that he continued writing the letter prinia I saw you in my dream last night again carian was shocked and troubling was it that shocking back to his father he said I wonder I think it was love at

first sight carian was again shocked what his father told your mother was a princess back then and in those days house Rass was closer to the aristocrats so it was difficult for me to even share a word with her as we were in different factions he remembered right that was the first time I talked with her his majesty had ordered the extermination of several houses and I was killing anyone in the palace who objected you're saying that as if it was a walk in the garden he bowed to her and said your highness you must

not stay here by Royal order all members of House Laurel in this Palace will be killed I will lead you out of here hurry and Princess ernia at that time slapped his hand and saido not touch me with those dirty hands how rude after recalling that he said that's when I fell for her Caren again asked why he said I mean that obvious look of disgust on her face shot right through my heart suddenly Cajun appeared I know how that feels prin can be scary like that sometimes too caran shouted no I don't understand it

at all then his father said think about it betrayal and assassinations were common occurrences back then and there was a night covered in blood he could have killed her at any moment yet she stood there proudly even without a weapon she was amazing more than a mere Knight like me both of you keep this in mind wielding a sword is not the only duty of a knight he then remembered now that I think about it perhaps that is what made her stronger eria and Jeremiah though they held no weapons in their hands they were not

ones to bend to an unjust threat two months after settling in the Empire princess beatress is greeted warmly by an acquaintance aresa said it's been almost 2 months since you've settled down in the Empire how has it been your highness no I should call you lady beatric F then now beatric responds with a smile I've been quite well thanks to your help aresa said I heard sir rean passed the promotion trial for the second night Squadron I didn't know he was such a skilled Knight beatric reminisces fondly ran has always been skilled in sword fighting

even when he was little I used to watch him secretly aresa said well the kingdom of Lisa has the strongest army after the Empire since he was a royal guard there he must be very strong she remembered the kingdom of Lisa is very aggressive so they have a lot of Military Officers princess beatric visited the Empire as a candidate for the prince's fiance during the foundation Day Celebrations however it was revealed that she was in love with her guard Siran and was pregnant the Empire took advantage of the situation to claim land from the kingdom

of Lisa yet if she returned to Lisa the angry royal family wouldn't have let her live as such his majesty oversaw their marriage personally and allowed her to settle in the Empire granting Siran the title of Baron thanks to that caran frequently visits the couple to learn Lisa's sword fighting techniques Arista remembered married Noble ladies have their own gatherings I can't always have her back right now she can't go outside too much since she's pregnant but I'm still worried though I heard she is being left out of social Gatherings since she betrayed her country and

converted I'm sure the kingdom of Lisa won't let this go she should be careful on their way back aresa said to Ren you didn't need to see us off sir Ren he replied no please please allow me the honor it's good to have friends Tris is always delighted when you visit Ben Karan asked aresa on that note are you still at war with that weed you two seem to argue every year I won't help you this time aresa replied I won't ask you to help so don't worry caran protested why are you mad at me

did I make you two fight aresa said just leave me alone caran lashed out do as you wish because I won't care even if you two stay like that for the rest of your lives aresa thought forever like this with Allan I don't want that then Ren asked pardon me but what do you mean by weed caran jokingly said oh there's this thing this tall but weak thing their light-hearted exchange is interrupted when their Carriage is ambushed ran shouted Coachman what is going on wait the assassins first struck Coachman and he fell down as they

get down from Carriage they were surrounded by assassins assassins yelled fear then you traitor pay for your sins with your life surround the group carian looking at the situation said we're surrounded ran wondered are they assassins from the kingdom of Lisa as the Assassin started attacking all of them fought back ran said to his companions I'm sorry you got involved in this because of me carian reassures him this isn't the time for that they're trying to kill us all anyway as they were fighting aresa said how could this many assassins have come from Lisa what's

going on caran said who cares as an assassin was about to strike ran aresa sha Siran be careful arista's sword gets covered in blood as she strikes down an assassin and she flitch seeing the blood at a distance more people were rushing towards them seeing that carian said we already have our hands full here ran said more assassins are coming aresa saw one of their capes they were the royal gads royal guards arrived just in time we are the Royal Guards stop what you're doing you are all under arrest as per the laws of the

Empire the Assassins curse under their breath TSK so they were waiting for us aresa said we're saved caran wondered how did the Royal Guards find us sir Seymour said you three come over here are you all right aresa said thank you for coming how did you know we were here before the guards can answer an attacker lunges forward with his sword pointing towards aresa he rushed forward someone shouted look out meanwhile in the palace Duke Ruth and Marquis Kiran rushed towards the prince he asked did you find the high priest Duke replied yes luckily someone

ran into him while surveying the area the prince said since someone to bring him here immediately as the Duke began well your highness a mysterious figure asked are you Prince ruus I am amazed to see you all grown up like this he introduced himself I am the third roote of Vita terus I am here due to a summon from the future son of the Empire at the same time where the Assassins were attacking caran jumped in front of Arista pushing her away stand back assassin who were rushing towards her shouted don't get in the way

amidst the chaos caran sustains a severe injury then sir Seymour jumped in and slashed the Assassin then he ordered the guards to finish all of the remaining assassins aresa quickly holds carian who was injured and said carian show me your wound seeing the blood aresa cries out in anguish caran no get up caran murmur filled the air we don't have enough towels someone shouted bring more warm water and Bandit es another called out rushing and scurrying noises ensue as everyone scrambles to assist aresa trembling her voice filled with desperation caran please she pleads a doctor

bows apologetically to a duess eria I apologize your grace while the other injuries will heal with time he's already lost too much blood from his eyes there's nothing else we can do he will probably never see light again the doctor explained Gravely that ess's voice rises in panic are you saying he will go blind he hasn't even had his Coming of Age ceremony yet she exclaims the doctor said we sincerely apologize but there is nothing more we can do the duchess said this can't be no she cries send a message to my husband at the

palace no send someone to his majesty I don't trust these fools bring the Royal doctors a servant hesitates you she cried I won't let them get away with this s sane she sobs Cajun said mother calm down when caran woke up aresa went to him she called out his name caran hearing that caran asked oh is it you trying to lighten the mood despite his injuries he said looks like I got myself into trouble I mean how could I let them hurt me like this but sometimes even monkeys fall from trees right aresa stares at

him her eyes welling with tears caran your eyes she Whispers carian brushes it off casually oh this why did they say it won't heal that's not true they're just trying to scare you he says with forced optimism this actually doesn't hurt that much you know this will heal in no time so he hesitates and then adds with a small well I can't teach you how to use a SW anymore caren's voice softens I want to rest now all right I'll go outside she says reluctantly as she was leaving caran calls out her name aresa re

extending his hand towards her but then he stopped in the middle seeing that aresa rushed towards him then caran warns her faintly go but be careful they might come back after that aresa left to her home in Carriage after reaching back guard and Maids rush to aresa visibly alarmed suddenly they heard voice of horses arisa's eyes widen as another Royal Guard approaches the Royal Carriage the prince burst out from Carriage Heron shouted your highness the carriage is still moving the paint steps down from the carriage and addresses her aresa asked your highness why are you

here he said I heard about the ambush from the Royal Guards are you all right did you get hurt aresa looks at him and ask you're here because of that the prince said Marquis krian is also on his way the guards are chasing after the attackers so they won't be able to get here he studies her pale face and asks with concern you look pale are you all right I heard sir caran was injured you must be in shock arista's composure crumbles as guilt overtakes her it's my fault carian was injured because of me she

cries he might his eyes he might lose his sight he he was badly wounded while protecting me her voice trembles as she recalls the scene the blood he bled too much the prince tried to comfort her calm down but she continued crying it must have hurt it must have been so painful if only he didn't try to protect me the prince cuts her off that's not true aresa sobs I should have avoided the attack it's my fault the prince raises his voice to snap her out of it aresa it's not your fault the ones who

Ambush you are at fault don't blame yourself meanwhile Aristocrats speaking in the palace a servant reports Gravely Your Grace I heard they attempted an ambush I don't know about house Monique but the younger son of house Ras is seriously injured Duke Zena smirked oh is that so what a Pity the pain said he'll get better a moment passes before he offers a more serious remark it's all right I sent the high priest to house RS as soon as I heard the report Arista stunned gasps both Cajun and Duchess was shocked and gasp seeing the priest

a high priest there are only six of them in this whole land priests are born with divine power and one of them came to the capital the prince reassured her he will recover don't worry after hearing that aresa said that's a relief noticing her hand the prince asked but what about your hand Arista glances at her hand dismissively oh this it's just a slight blister that's all she then said do come inside your highness since you're here why don't you have a cup of tea before you leave he replied there's no need knowing that you're

safe and well is enough I'll have tea another time you should go in and rest early Lena Whispers to Arista oh my His Highness came all the way here at this hour Taylor added he must have been really worried about you aresa said huh um I'm sure that's not the case she paused her thoughts were drifting now that I think about it she remembered him calling her name aresa she then said to the maid actually I would like some tea the maid beams I'll have it ready right away my lady as she waits arista's thoughts

wander again maybe it's just my imagination but I'm sure it was the first time he called my name yet it didn't feel strange in caren's recovery room caran greets Arista with his usual mischievous grin you're here shorty what's with that silly face you should look happier considering this genius is recovering he gestures dramatically how come you came to visit me empty-handed such terrible manners you should have brought cookies or chocolates at least Arista Smiles softly relieved caran can you really see well again carian leans back theatrically can I see well H hold on oh right

I can see even the strand of hair sticking out over your right ear aresa laughs slightly that's great I'm so relieved caran she notices more bandages on his arm but how come you still have so many bandages caran shrugs oh those well I still need to rest for my other wounds to heal so I'm tied to the bed for now she said I couldn't believe what Prince Ruess told me last night but it's all true you're all better then caran said looking at the food it's Troublesome to eat why one hand help me out she

said okay I'll cut your bread Arista nods her voice tinged with amazement divine power really is amazing it can heal a hopeless injury in an instant she tilts her head thoughtfully what kind of person is the high priest I hear he's very mysterious and has long white hair caran throws out the food remembering about him caran interrupts visibly uncomfortable ug can we not talk about that Arista blinks in confusion but quickly changes the topic oh all right sure caran grumbles gesturing to the mess around him geez everything got dirty Because of You Arista laughed softly

all right all right I'm sorry I'll bring a fresh meal carian then said it's your fault so you have to feed me Arista thinks to herself with a small smile that's childish but he did get hurt protecting me I'll let this slide just this once she opened the door and encounter alenis she said Allan he calls out Tia her mind raced to think I'd just run into you like this caran notices Alan enter wow what's this so Weed Head is here to see me is the world coming to an end alenis said well I had

some questions to ask as well but you look quite better than I expected carian shouted how dare you aresa quickly tries to leave I'll be off now I have to get to work caran calls her what wait you aresa added take care of yourself caran after she left caran complained to alenis Weed Head you're here to bother me aren't you you're no help at all he said if your question is silly you're going to be forced to assist me all day today alenis said I heard you were seriously injured but I think you would have

been fine even if you got hurt more than this carian then looked towards allendis and said you're the one who looks seriously injured while aresa was walking she thought to herself it's all right everything will be fine just stay like this for a while seeing her arrive the prince said you just arrived she replied yes your highness I apologize for my tardiness I visited house Ras on the way and confirmed that saran's eyes have recovered well the prince said right I'm glad it wasn't too late aresa then bowed to him thank you your highness I

don't know what would have happened if the high priest wasn't there I'm so grateful then the prince asked why do you say that she asked pardon the prince said thinking about something no I mean the one who was treated was Sir carian but you thank me just now I don't understand why aresa then bowed again and said oh I apologize your highness of course you would help a relative in need I said something unnecessary and made you uncomfortable the prince asked that's not it why are you so grateful about his aresa doesn't get it due

to this there was a moment of awkwardness between them seeing the situation Heron changed the topic your highness it's time for the council meeting the prince said Haron I'll leave the rest to you so please take care of it he complied as you wish your highness after the prince left aresa wondered could it be that he's mad because caran got hurt protecting me Heron interjected that's totally unrelated she replied is that so she thinks in her mind I don't understand him at all now before I could tell what he was thinking and how he was

feeling she then notices the knights all right sir Seymour sir June thank you for helping us that night I will go thank his majesty later but do tell him him I am very grateful for his thoughtfulness sir Jun said not at all Seymour said actually the one who ordered us to secretly guard you was in his majesty therefore we will send your regards to His Highness aresa quickly turns towards Heron sir Heron that Heron interjected to be exact it was before the foundation Day Celebrations it was around the time you went to visit the jewelry

Artisan arises Min raced since that long ago I thought they were following orders from the emperor just like before why would His Highness order the guard to secretly watch me then Heron revealed my lady about that Ambush they were probably after you aresa gets shocked what do you mean meanwhile caran was saying I'm telling you what I saw they were disguised as assassins from Lisa but their sword fighting style was different I've been dueling Siran a lot lately so I know and the last attacker told me not to get in the way after hearing that

in this thinks they were after sir ran Fen who betrayed the kingdom of Lisa yet they attacked hea in the end he resolved while Furious that darn old Fox I knew he was behind all this seeing his wful Expressions carian said hey you know something don't allendis quickly left Cary and called him hey Weed Head he protested Duke Zena don't you dare tell me you laid a hand on the daughter of house Monique it's careless to harm the lady of of Prophecy Duke Zena said the prophecy is just a show perhaps the other houses may

live but house Monique must be destroyed if that our csed bloodline survives they will come back to disrupt our business he added what are you so surprised for you wanted to deprive Marquis Monique of his title and cooperated in constructing the plan don't say you weren't a part of it now he looked at him and said there's no need to be anxious we didn't do anything what happened today was done by the assassins from Lisa right though it would have been good news if that child of house Monique had been killed in the chaos alenis

complained to himself it's my fault that I worked with those Vermin who wished to kill you but then I didn't realize my mind was so clouded by my greed meanwhile aresa shouted as she heard from Heron what about the Assassins they should be from Lisa Haron said we don't have definitive proof yet but we obtained the information from reliable source we were taking precautions and then it happened yesterday after hearing that aresa thought that means Siran and caran both got wrapped up in my troubles Heron continued in any case please be careful as ordered by

Prince ress they will continue to guard you she remembered the prince asking has anything happened to you lately her mind raced recalling he asked that question sir Seymour helped me on the first day of the celebrations they didn't participate in the the mock battle either it's because they were looking out for me aresa tells back then I only thought about the people who wanted to kill me and the people who were hurt because of me I didn't realize why a high priest known to wander the world was at the Royal Palace that day I didn't

know that was the beginning of the tidal wave of change slowly sweeping the Empire later allendis in his room my andinia standing near him he said I know that is the only choice I have left the next day he visited the palace the emperor asked so why did you request a secret audience Lord alenis de verita my change after returning to the past has caused a lot to change around me as well I only just began to realize how big the wheel was that swept up so many people the fates of some were twisting in

a completely different direction it was the day the delegation to the kingdom of Rua was leaving people were chattering to each other this delegation will take a while it will take a few months at least the princess of Rua and ciran will have their wedding soon too suddenly caran called out hey weede head alenis said oh what a surprise caran said I heard you're joining the delegation you even resigned from the administration office alenis said right to borrow your way of phrasing I'm more useful than a weakling like you caran asked were you rejected alenis

said darn it I've always hated how quick you were at noticing things caran jokingly said your problem is that you always try to resolve everything quickly with that smart mind of yours Allen this said no need to be so happy if you only circle around her like that that's where you'll be for the rest of your life anyway good timing as he said that he throws a sword towards caran take it I don't need it anymore so you can have it seeing that caran grabs Alan's collar don't tell me you as he started they heard

aresa calling Alan alenis said TP her that's not good Tia you're calling my nickname so loudly in a place like this what if people start talking about it again she asked are you really leaving Alan alen said Tia don't get sick even when I'm gone you get tired easily so don't overwork yourself this summer will be especially hot so take care wear warm clothes in the winter and drink the tea I gave you last time I heard it's good at preventing colds hearing that aresa said don't say that Alan why are you talking as if

you're never coming back you're only going there as part of the delegation you'll return once your task is done alenis then remembered his audience with the emperor he told them everything the emperor said so you were working with the aristocrats and leaked important documents by memorizing them from the negotiations with the kingdom of Lisa to the location of their hiding place if you delayed this any further they would have even had access to the secret documents of the Imperial Palace you are indeed a genius but to think that you would cause so much trouble what

am I to do with you alenis bowed and said I will gladly accept execution but please protect lady aresa she will be in danger because of me the emperor asked so you help them plan the Ambush on lady aresa what do you think is the right punishment for him my son the prince asked Lord allendis you knew what would happen when you first joined the aristocrats what made you change your mind now he thinks for a moment then said because I can no longer protect her from myself the prince said I understand he he told

him you will leak fake information to the aristocrats as documents from the Imperial Palace he thinks in his mind I could have been more indirect there were plenty of excuses I could have used to hide my intentions but they would have been useless even if ID lied in front of him I'm simply hiding in the shadows because I fear your Brilliance arestia pleaded Allan answer me tell me you'll return alenis then said Tia my dear lady even if you don't accept my confession you will always be my lady in my heart just as I promised

When We Were Young so then won't you allow me to call you as such as I wish so that I can keep this feeling I have for you as the delegation left Cary and shouted from behind hey Weed Head make sure you come back when you're done if you ever give up on life you'll be forced to suffer at the hands of me hey you answer me alenis said in his mind looking back if I give up on life I'd already be dead so how will you make me suffer take care carrot I thought everything

about you was annoying but perhaps I did enjoy the time I spent with you please look after this silver lady who often gets lonely that is all I wish for from the people who will stay with her after after he left s said fool and I thought you were perfect as a disposable piece you couldn't overcome your weak mind and now you flee after ruining everything it was a slight detour but it looks like we will have to go with the original plan we will capture the prince and make him our puppet it's not there

someone asked in frustration sir Sudan said I looked through all the boxes but I didn't even find a strand ofer even if we're not busy I didn't think we'd end up having to search for something like this and it's so hot today aresa said I'm sorry it's all my fault Leticia asked if sir carian was nicer it wouldn't have run away carian said I only petted it a bit it was more like you were hitting it came the sharp retort aresa said it's still young so it couldn't have gone far she recalled the day after

Allan left with the delegation a small basket arrived with a letter from him please take care of this little one the note read luckily after it hid in my Carriage that morning I was able to bring the little creature to the knight's office but it had run away while I was in the Commander's office while looking throughout the garden Arista said this place is unfamiliar so maybe it's scared and hiding under the bushes suddenly she heard someone saying that's nonsense she gets startled The Voice continued you're planning to announce that to the whole empire she

saw that was the emperor's voice I've never heard him sound so angry the prince said the summer heat this year seems dangerous the Summer Palace has been used by our ancestors every year if you rest there the emperor cut him off fool I thought I always taught you to never let your guard down or show your weaknesses I am fine don't ever speak like that again seeing that aresa thought was that really a conversation between family it seemed more like a Lord and his subject I knew they weren't very affectionate with each other but now

that I think about it his majesty has never been affectionate toward Prince rues why would he be like that after the emperor left the prince took a breath of relief Arista thought hiding behind a bush I should forget what I heard due to sound of rustling the prince called out who's there the prince was surprised aresa what are you doing here cut off guard aresa stammered I was I was looking for someone he asked could it be that you heard all that she denied no I didn't hear a thing your highness you're not good at

lying the prince remarked flatly he asked who are you looking for you're a mess while brushing the leaves F her head he said you look like a cat who stuck inside a chimney remembering the past both looked at each other dazed the subject shifted again your highness is the Summer Palace the one with cooling Magic cast upon it about a thousand years ago magic and divine power were both common Scholars are skeptical of the existence of such a rare phenomenon but there are three spells in the Empire that Pro the existence of magic to this

day first the oath with the royal family that is passed down in the bloodline of house Monique the Summer Palace the 11th emperor of castina dearly loved his Queen Kana so he ordered one of the royal Mages to find a way to escape the summer heat the Mage grew a giant tree to create shade for the whole Palace when the relationship between the emperor and the Mage fell apart the Mage left the palace but his spell remained on the palace and while it was nice in the summer it became too cold and uninhabitable during the

winter in the end the emperor chose a new capital and move the Imperial Palace the castle became a vacation place where Royals escaped the summer heat the prince told my father never spent the summer there before I requested that he go there since the summer heat this year seems unusual he's always protected this Palace even amidst the chaos of the Empire so he only refuses saying that he can't show any weakness aresa thinks in her mind but if the emperor stays here his health will only get worse she said how about you go there with

him the prince replied no I'm as he began suddenly carian came there shouting gez I can't find it where is that tiny peace siiz thing even hiding they all looked at each other and there was a moment of silence caran said well I didn't know you were slacking off while everyone else is busy searching the prince asked it's been a while sir carian how is your recovery going slacking off he replied well I'm a lot better as you can see all thanks to that great priest you sent to us the prince said I see you

do seem confident about your strength caran added and sword fighting too then caran grabbed arisa's hand and said may I take Squire Arista now we're busy looking for something at the moment Arista whispered to him caran don't be so rude he whispered back what else am I to do that kitten only likes you so we can't find it without your help hearing that the prince asked wait you were looking for a cat both of them replied in unison pardon the prince said an unfamiliar silver cat ran into my office just now so it was yours

after finding the cat aresa was happy Luna Haron said no wonder I did think it was lost lost since it had on a collar aresa said to him thank you for looking after her he replied oh I haven't done anything she fell asleep after His Highness left but she doesn't seem to like people caran interjected that's right just the type of cat that the weed would raise no caran picks up the cat and said don't cause trouble getting Afraid from him the cat scratches him seeing that aresa said don't do that when it's so hot

you know caran complained come on look at her hissing aresa tried to calm her down Luna good kitty come here looking at them the prince chuckled and thinks they look alike the prince gets up from his place and calmly picks up the cat the cat doesn't protest even a little bit he gives her to aresa while saying about the topic just before aresa asked pardon just before the prince said the Summer Palace is a quiet and cool place to be it will be refreshing to stay there for a while rest assured aresa replied I see

aresa thought huh but didn't he say the emperor wasn't going he said it as if I was going to be traveling there I did think it was weird when he said that later Duke Arin said your highness you wish to reassign all of the guards in the palace the prince said a few will be temporarily transferred as a reward for their excellent performance during the mock battle I was thinking of having them guard where my father is staying the prince briefed them the inner Palace and the interior will be guarded by those who are already

there Squadron 13 of the first night Squad will stand watch outside of the building arestia was reading the letter form prinia I hear His Majesty has safely arrived at the Summer Palace how is it there is it cool all year round as the rumors say I was looking forward to seeing you when I came to the Empire but I'm sad that we can only exchange letters for now don't worry about the capital His Highness is leading politics adeptly and your father as well too we'll meet again in Autumn right I look forward to the day

I'll see you again sincerely prina duras after reading that aresa concluded so she's back in the Empire and now she's the next Duchess of house Ras she then smelled the letter I can catch the faint scent of roses suddenly a servant informed Squire aresa his majesty is looking for you she replied all right then she went went to the emperor and said I heard you were looking for me Your Majesty Emperor was holding a pigeon to his finger he said welcome lady aresa I'd like to have some tea with you how about it she replied

sure I'll have someone prepare some she recalled in her mind it has been about 2 months since I arrived at the Summer Palace to accompany his majesty he insisted that he wouldn't leave but when he saw how pitiful we looked standing outside guarding the palace he reluct ly gave in the emperor said it's quite hot lately I think I'll go on vacation then the prince said his Farewell father please take care of yourself the emperor said to his son you're a clever one aresa thought it seems like Prince Ruess stationed our unit outside on purpose

though I don't know the exact details the emperor then said to aresa he knows I care for you a lot he knew I wouldn't leave you standing outside under the scorching Sun for long moreover if you stay near me it will be difficult for insolent Nobles to Badger you so it's also to protect you aresa felt touched that's she thinks in her mind he was looking out for me she remembered the prince saying the Summer Palace is a quiet and cool place it will be refreshing to stay there for a while the emperor then said

I thought he was still young but now he knows how to be clever let's see how he manages the palace in my absence he will be fine he's my son it may not seem like it but I believe in him as he said that he looked at aresa who was looking eager hm you look like you want to ask something she replied not at all your majesty the emperor said you may go ahead and ask it's between you and me she asked then if you trust His Highness so much why do you always treat him

so strictly the emperor looked at aresa and doesn't say anything for a moment aresa then said my apologies then the emperor said Ru sent that tea to you correct aresa took a glance at it saying pardon oh the emperor said he's grown up quite a bit now now he knows how to judge people so he won't easily let go of a treasure like you then he said recalling the past you ask why I'm so strict with Ru well who else can be this way besides me why wouldn't I want to shower him with affection he

was a child who grew up with without a mother's love he seemed all right for a while when martianus Jeremiah was alive but she also left this world soon after he has no siblings what do you think will happen when I die he will be left alone at the center of the palace when that time comes what else will protect him other than his endurance he must lead the Empire one day so I had to scold him instead of comforting him reprimand him instead of forgiving him I kept scolding him lest he become lazy from

praise hearing that aresa thought but is that really the best way he's been treated with scorn by his own father his whole life yet he still wishes to be loved what about his feelings and his concern for his father as she was drinking tea she realized this tea tastes bitter she then recalled I remember the Young Prince quietly sipping tea on that day in my previous life he thinks his father doesn't love him just like me back then the prince sent her a letter that says aresa how are you doing I hear the Summer Palace

is as cool as always my father adores you very much so I hope you'll accompany him well while he stays there and do take care of yourself in kind ress Calin sh castina later Arista felt tired after training and laid down seeing that caran said hey don't lie down you're the one who asked for a duel first don't get tired so soon at his nudging aresa said looks like your wounds are all better now caran teased what did you think you'd win if I was still in pain shorty she replied that's not what I was

thinking letun go again caran then said good as they start again aresa thinks in her mind I have no chance to win using strength perhaps I'll hold out a bit and then step back seeing that caran steps back and aresa stumbled carian caught her saying be careful there lady you still have so much to learn ARIS complained how can I not even win once aresa recalled becoming a knight representing my house my relationship with Father allendis carian Anda and all the new people I've met the things with Princess prin and princess beatric and the changes

that Prince Ruess has shown the future is definitely changing maybe just maybe June might not appear that would be truly nice her thought were interrupted by caran he asked what what's wrong she replied nothing I just felt a bit dizzy caran remarked you're so weak she heard a sound of Gears moving suddenly they heard people murmuring to each other one of them said looks like an Envoy from the Imperial Palace other interjected what's going on aresa saw her father and she happily jumped Papa she dashed forward saying let's go see caran hurry carian shouted what

weren't you dizzy Just just a minute ago as she was going she said inwardly Papa it's been 2 months since I last saw him is he here to see me seeing her coming Leticia said Squire aresa welcome sir suan told his majesty just began his audience with his lordship Leticia said looks like he's here on some urgent business sers sidan said doesn't that mean it serious if Marquis krian came here in person Leticia said no maybe he just missed squire aresa a lot that could be it he does care for her a lot aresa then

felt a sudden thump seeing that caran asked are you all right she replied yes I wonder what's wrong with me today she again heard the sound of Gears moving she asked carian do you hear that sound caran replied huh what sound she said I keep hearing this sound I wonder where it's coming from meanwhile her father said your majesty a girl with black hair appeared at the palace's lake hearing that aresa told it was a sound directed at foolishly careless me The Wheel of Fortune was returning to its original Direction and with it came the

sound of God laughing on that Troublesome day the ministers and officers in the palace had been in a heated debate regarding the drought for days everyone felt the heat more than usual Rivas suggested taking a short walk as a breather everyone reluctantly broke up their discussion and went to the lake behind the main Palace though Autumn was near the heat still scorched the land everyone was exhausted from having meetings that didn't seem to come to any conclusion while near the lake the prince thinks in his mind I wonder if she's all right in this hot

weather I hope she's not overworking herself seeing him in deep thought Heron concluded he must be thinking of Lady arestia once he was able to take a break Ruess was lost in thought however the calm atmosphere didn't last since the core members of the hostile parties were gathered together in the end Rives had to step in and at that moment a bright flash appeared and with a blinding light a girl appeared in the middle of the lake wearing an outfit that didn't resemble any culture in this land with dark eyes and jet black hair that

flowed down to her shoulders she had unique features that didn't exist in this land it was the appearance of a girl from another world of course everyone who watched the scene was shocked the guards surrounded the Intruder and Drew their weapons but the girl Stood Still as if she was nailed to the ground and she kept staring at ruus until the guards took her away as if she knew right away that he was the one tied to her by Fate later aresa was taking a break sleeping under the shade when her father called for her

Tia Leticia called Squire Arista as she woke up and opened her eyes she asked did I faint her father replied looks like you had had a mild heat stroke you should lie down for a bit her father then glanced at her colleagues and said could you give us a moment as they left Arisa said Papa what you told his majesty just now it's her father looked serious I'm sorry Tia I was always unsure about the story you had told me but a girl with black hair and black eyes there's no way I can't believe it

now aresa was shocked June really appeared but why why now she was supposed to appear a year later her father said the aristocrats are already conspiring with the temple they're insisting that she's the woman from the prophecy his majesty will return to the capital soon this is bound to turn into something bigger so be prepared now all parties will be battling for the rightful Empress aresa said inwardly as if to mocked me for being unprepared fate began to take another turn after the emperor returned to the capital the prince Prince welcomed Him Father how have

you been the emperor said oh my son you were waiting for me I've been very well and comfortable thanks to Squire arist diaa here the rose hip you sent to my daughter-in-law was quite good it was very effective in fighting off the heat thanks to that I had a marvelous time there the prince replied is that so after hearing that aresa thought saying daughter-in-law now of all times his intention is so obvious I can already feel the Sparks from his Majesty's words then the prince said to aresa thank you for taking care of my father

won't you spare a bit of time for me if it's all right with you I hope you will come with me to my Palace she complied I will do so your highness after going to his Palace the prince said you've done a lot in the past two months aresa judging by how pleased father seems it was right to send you there looking at the prince aresa thought Prince rues I think he's gotten thinner while I was away he must have watched over this Palace by himself without his majesty she replied I'm honored your highness as

he was about to drink tiesa thought should I ask him I wonder if it's true that he sent me with his majesty because he was looking out for me remembering about June her mind raised how did he feel when he saw Jun was it love at first sight as it was in the past did he realize that she is his faded partner the ties of Fate that God has already laid down did he feel them as she was in deep thoughts the prince called her aresa she flinched yes yes your highness he asked are you

all right she replied yes I'm listening he began I requested that you come here because I wanted to ask you something I'm sure this must be painful for you to remember but in the past when you were at your familyes suddenly Heron opened the door saying your highness pardon the intrusion he opened the door and said I apologize your highness this message was urgent so I had to interrupt the prince replied it's all right where is it coming from Heron told the Rose Palace hearing that aresa wondered is junet the Rose Palace right now the

prince said I thought Duchess era dasas was in charge of the Rose Palace Heron replied yes however The Duchess and that woman are Heron whispered to the prince the remaining news Arista remembered he let Jun stay in the Rose Palace in the past as well it's the same I thought this reality was changing little by little but then June appeared I feel like it's going back to its original course after hearing what Heron came to tell the prince commanded tell them to wait I'm in the middle of an important suddenly arist IA filed in your

highness it is not right for a subject like me to hold you back when you are this busy I will take my leave now hearing that the prince said arestia oh right you must be tired from the long trip we can talk again later as she was leaving Heron said your highness you must hurry the prince replied yes letun head to the Rose Palace as arestia was walking back she thought so this is how it is if if I am still going to be pulled around by Fate if I am still faded to stand in

the background behind Jun why did you give me hope why did you give me a name what kind of pioneer of Fate is forced to follow like this why did you take me back in time she went to the carriage The Coachman asked should I take you home my lady she replied no to the temple the clergy at the temple told her you cannnot see the high priest at the moment aresa asked then how long must I wait she replied the high priest will not see anyone today observing the other she realized the priests are

behaving quite differently compared to 5 years ago so they think the true child of the prophecy has appeared the priest then said if you wish to pray to the one God I will show you to the prayer room aresa replied I will go by myself as she was walking there aresa thinks in her mind I wanted to see the high priest and question him even if I go to the prayer room now I wouldn't be able to hear God's voice like I did 5 years ago maybe I'll just look for the high priest in here

as she was walking as someone behind her pointed towards her and a door burst open for her looking inside aresa wondered huh where is this she went inside so there was a place like this inside the temple looking at the beautiful scenery and birds she said so beautiful if possible I want to hear God's voice again suddenly she heard the voice you are a child loved by me the one who settles fate where you stay is where your fate will be hearing the voice sisa remembered huh this voice this voice that Rings inside my head

I've heard this voice before a voice that spreads with a strong lingering feeling the voice continued and where you wish will be your place your name is the one who grabs fate Jun grasp hearing that voice arisa's mind raised could this be this is God's voice granting a name to June she prayed God just like 5 years ago answer me once more she wondered is God responding but there was no response seeing that aresa thinks in her mind I knew it God won't answer me anymore then she said out loud I should go back one

who grabs fate Jun grasp as she said that there was someone behind her listening to it when she woke up the next morning a letter arrived at how house Monique it was a notice asking that aresa attend the council meeting that day seeing the letter her father said it's finally beginning Tia I don't think the current Prince rues is someone who would abandon you but I want to respect your wishes as much as possible so let me ask you this right now will you step forward as the heir of our house or will you wear

the crown as the future Empress she began I after that they went to the council meeting aresa saw two chairs lying in the middle she thought they want me to sit in the interrogation seat so this is how they want to begin Jun sat on one of the seats aresa took a look at her and shivered she reassured herself stay strong this isn't the time to be wary of her then she began your majesty forgive me for asking but am I to attend this meeting as an offender that was the beginning aresa as a proud

representative of her house wore a formal suit that bore the crest of house Monique and as a representative with all the rights of the Lord of a house she boldly asked for her rightful seat as a noble though the aristocrats scoffed and sneered aresa calmly and logically rebutted their arguments the discussion went on for a while but she was finally able to take a seat as a member of her house as soon as the meeting began the Aristocrat party's count haml spoke up as if he was waiting for the moment the temple announced that there

was an oracle sent by God yesterday afternoon since Vita gave Juna name in the language of God the aristocrats argued that the true child of the prophecy ought to be June however lady aresa was also given a name by God 5 years ago what do you all think of that the members complained wait your majesty you kept such an important fact a secret from us until now the emperor replied I kept it a secret due to certain circumstances but some already knew about it anyway chaos swept to cross two people were named by oracles wait

that was already 5 years ago June appeared as if by a miracle and the Oracle said she is loved by God listening to that arist as thinks so even my Oracle is being revealed I suppose it can't be helped now though June was the other main participant of this discussion she quietly stayed seated without saying a word amidst the heated debate her eyes seemed to look in arista's Direction what happened in the Rose Palace yesterday but aresa was lost in thought and didn't notice one of the members objected saying that lady aresa was also given

an oracle as suspicious it could be a lie another shouted watch what you say another said I agree his majesty wouldn't be wrong another added but lady aresa for quite some time now has done many things just to stay as the prince's fiance as they were arguing to each other the prince slams his hand on the table to make them silent you're all too loud what you all consider important is which one is the one from the prophecy right they replied yes your highness he said then let's ask someone else for confirmation let the high

priest in after hearing that aresa quickly turned towards him the high priest one of the six priests who has divine power and can hear the voice of God will I finally meet the high priest high priest came and said May the blessing of Life be with you I am tius the third root of God the prince stands up from his place and said thank you for coming high priest I called you here to confirm something the priest replied you may ask anything the prince said lady aresa and that woman called Jun both claim to be

named by God who is telling the truth the priest answered both speak the truth their names are Pioneer and grasp the prince asked again then high priest who do you consider to be the child of the prophecy hearing that arestia trembled though aresa knew of the outcome she was nervous she wasn't prepared for what she was feeling at the moment and convinced herself that it was only because the one who was to seal her fate was a mysterious being with the power of God the priest began aresa Pioneer La Monique is not the child of

the prophecy Jun grasp is the new child of the prophecy that overwrites the one before she is the one and only true child of the prophecy some members of council were Furious how can that be dear high priest please reconsider some jumped happily so lady aresa was indeed a fake all along as The Whispers began aresa thinks in her mind I knew this would happen this is just the beginning it was the same in the past the truth was already Chosen and it won't change now hearing to that the prince grits his teeth then suddenly

the priest added and that is what the temple insists by themselves hearing to that everyone was shocked the prince asked if you say that is the Temple's opinion are you telling us that you think differently the priest replied yes all prophecies have a meaning a prophecy that overwrites a past prophecy is illogical lady Pioneer and Lady grasp were both given a name by God's will as such I believe that both of them are the child of Prophecy someone from the audience shouted how can that be possible high priest do you truly mean that in this

land there are only six High priests unlike regular priests they are born with the divine power of Vita they are special in that their births are announced by prophecies only six High priests are passed down in AIM and they sit at the head of vaita Temple they don't stay in one place and continue to travel while performing God's will unlike the temple that continues to interfere in politics they are not interested in honor treasure or fame even the highest of nobles can rarely receive their divine power and so his opinion has a greater impact than

the official opinion of the temple aresa wondered I am the same as June then the priest turned towards aresa lady Pioneer you heard God's voice giving you a name 5 years ago didn't you and you also heard God's Oracle naming lady grasp yesterday too aresa was shocked how did you know then the priest said yesterday afternoon at the center of sanus v in the Holy sanctuarium I witnessed lady Pioneer listening to God's Oracle herself hearing God's voice should be impossible unless one is a high priest or has the mark of God he then turned towards

June also lady grasp has been silent all this time but I feel the same kind of divine power the blessing of God that we High priests have aresa wondered June has divine power the priest continued as such I tertius the third root of God have determined that both are the children of Prophecy at the conclusion of the morning meeting as Arista and others came out of meeting she saw Ana and Ilia were waiting for her they called for her lady Arista aresa asked antia Ilia what brings you here Ana replied I was so worried I

couldn't just wait around are you all right aresa replied yes for now I may not have the support of our faction anymore should you really be seen with me at a time like this Anda replied looking sad don't say that then Ilia spoke this isn't like you isn't it too early to act weak you must boldly fight back just as you've always done until now after the meeting the priest went to the emperor and greeted him it's been a while since I last saw you dear son of the Empire the emperor thinks for a moment

then spoke H it seemed your name has changed during that time has it been 20 years now you don't grow old no matter how much time passes I hear last time you stopped by while I was asleep you should have woken me up instead of leaving so quickly the priest replied it just happened somehow that day this dear future son made me quite busy here and there the emperor said oh is that so then the prince said I thank you for today and for last time high priest you will be rewarded soon he replied I

am honored that I was able to help you your highness instead of a reward I hope you'll visit the temple hearing that the prince flinched the priest cheerfully added and was Lady Pioneer if possible the prince replied I'll try to spare sometime soon then the priest said now I shall take my leave after blessing you too as the priest walked past aresa with the gesture of his hand he pointed towards aresa she felt something changing to her she wondered huh what is this I feel so refreshed all of a sudden then the priest talked to

her in her mind this is as far as I can help you lady Pioneer from now on you must Forge ahead and take the path yourself just like your name the pioneer of Fate aresa said ah it's nothing after that she started walking thinking about what to do next all right the first match has ended well I should be bolder later in the afternoon suddenly she saw June coming seeing her arestia recalled this is our first time meeting in this reality she's wearing the same clothes as when I first saw her you smiled so brightly

in front of everyone you were loved by God and you had everything how will it be this time will you ask me to be your friend again just like the time when you didn't know anything Arista shivered for a moment as June was about to speak June began long time no see Tia did you enjoy your time I'm here in this world without me aresa was shocked what she was still in shock what did she just Jun cheered up oh what a relief I was worried that I was the only one who went back in

time Tia you were here too oh you seem younger than when we first met did I come a bit early Arista stepped back in shock June no it can't be Jun leaned forward saying you do remember right you see seemed so surprised that I almost thought you'd forgotten me too it's finally getting interesting I've been so bored ever since I came back I hope you'll take care of me just like before Tia she left after saying that Arisa stands there still in shock later her father asked her looking at her Tia what's wrong you seem

dazed she snapped back oh it's nothing Papa buuy asked what do you think what will be their next move arist replied you mean for the meeting later in the afternoon count haml or someone else with enough power will try to take June grasp as their adopted daughter Duke Ruth replied so you think so too Duke Ras said right we should bring that lady to our side Duke Ruth filled in Kiran you have no objections since you've decided on an air right Arista thought right that's for the best bringing Jun is the future Empress supported by

us the imperialist that is the best way for me to succeed my family without worry as I am the one who burdened our party but Jun did you really go back in time too as the sikon meeting was about to begin The Prince and other members came to the meeting Hall Arista looked towards the prince and remembered his words according to the agreement there's still some time left won't you reconsider your decision she felt conflicted as she remembered herself saying to her father I will succeed our family Papa she then turns her head someone announced

it's time to resume the afternoon meeting began as expected the aristocrats announced that they were willing to accept Jun as an adopted daughter what we didn't expect was that Duke Zena made the offer himself even though he always insisted on the importance of a noble bloodline but the imperialists were ready and they LED with Duke Rass offering Jun the chance to join them as well the emperor suggested how about she become a prince H the emperor started joking at the sudden and silly scramble that began but then Duke Zena revealed something substantial Duke Rass don't

you think you're being too greedy you already have lady aresa and now you want Jun grasp as well no actually perhaps you're greedy to take grasp even more since that child of the prophecy is mixed with the blood of a peasant after hearing that everyone was shocked and flinched the prince jolted as the murmuring began aresa thought he's saying that again the prince shouted Duke Cena during this discussion refrain from needless slander the Duke said your highness the bloodline of the house that grasp will entrust herself to is very important I have a younger sister

who is written down to have died from a disease long ago though it is humiliating the truth is that she was kidnapped by some low peasants that girl's mother the late martianus of house Monique is the child that was was born between my younger sister and a peasant she is the child of a peasant the audience was shocked Again by this Revelation Marquis krian shouted I will not forgive anyone who insults my wife and my daughter Duke Zena replied then bring proof that I'm wrong you can at least do that much if you want the

child of the prophecy no Marquis countered you are the one bringing up a baseless story and you ask us for proof the imperialists and Aristocrats again straight arguing one shouted that's right how dare you insult the Empire's spear the other countered ha spear indeed what kind of high Noble has the blood of a peasant one replied in that case Jun grasp isn't a noble or anything nether the other shouted back how dare you say such a thing to a child loved by God Marquis Monique was infuriated which was unusual the aristocrats argued that Jun grasp

is also a commoner yet they couldn't hide the Panic aresa was shocked my mother was the daughter of a peasant and the niece of Duke Cena no that can't be she was written down as the daughter of house Sonia in the Royal directory but if papa is this Furious then that means it must be at least partially true the prince looked at aresa who was in shock aresa then the emperor began that is enough all of you as the ruler of this Empire I do not wish for a battle between two honorable houses Duke Zena

questioning the legitimacy of the marianist is a defamation of house Monique refrain from stirring up baseless rumors I shall reveal the documents regarding the Redemption of house Sonia's title during her marriage this should satisfy both parties I believe as The Whispers began the Duke Ras thinks still once there's doubt it won't be easy to shake off Duke Ruth concluded so this was his true objective a scandal regarding lady Monique's legitimacy the grand Council room was full of doubt and anger that was greater than before the awkward silence continued as if a storm had passed by

June had been watching everything without a word until now but she finally began to talk your majesty and your highness as the prophecy of God I wish to choose where I will be and I have made my decision after hearing everything the emperor said even though you've been keeping your silence until now well then say what you wish where will you go she smiled and then said I will go with Duke Zena hearing that the emperor said now then the child of Prophecy and her residence have been decided what's left is to choose the prince's

fiance let's discuss the rest tomorrow you may all leave the court after the meeting the prince walked towards both of them but aresa left before him later in his office Heron said you did well your highness if it was quite hectic towards the end then they looked at the document this is the directory of nobles from 30 and 35 years ago Heron began house Sonia Baron a vassel of house Monique managed a small town on the Monique estate Baron Sonia is the only family member no other relativ survive The Baron's title will be withdrawn after

The Baron's death after reading that Heron thinks aloud that's odd if the Martian is was alive she would be in her late 30s now it wouldn't be odd if her name was omitted 35 years ago but a noble House's air should have been recorded in the directory from 30 years ago and then Jeremiah Lo Sonia suddenly appeared in the directory 25 years ago your highness is this what I think it is after hearing that the prince said past Registries are collected before getting updated most people wouldn't notice what happens at a small Barron's house in

the countryside and agreed indeed the prince remembered there was no glimpse of a shadow to be found in her smile I wonder what happened the prince Rises up from his place and walks to the window Heron suggested your highness I hear there will be a flower Lantern Festival near the riverbank in the evening why don't you go outside and get some fresh air meanwhile at the riverbank aresa was there with antia ABD Ilia aresa said I've never seen anything like this before antia told during a flower Lantern Festival people make a wish upon the flower

and let it drift down the river Ilia added so there are flowers Z low at night Ana said this Festival was held to wish for the drought to end the Sharia company is hosting this Ilia spoke everyone is hoping for it so I'm sure it will rain soon and TAA asked holding the flower should we send some too Ilia asked is it fine to wish for anything antea replied well that would be up to the person then Ilia said so that's how it is now you should take one too lady arestia then they make their

wishes after drifting the flowers antaa wished please make Sharia company into the best Merchant Association of this land Ilia wished please make sure the person next to me doesn't get too greedy aresa doesn't wish for anything they asked what did you wish for lady aresa she replied oh I was thinking about something else and forgot one of them said Oh What A pity the flower already drifted away hold on I'll buy one more after that as aresa took a walk her mind was reflecting the things that happen today keep coming to mind I attended the

court wearing this formal attire to be a representative of my family so I was able to passively State my determination but other than that a lot of things were a total failure I thought it would be fine for me to step down from from my role since the imperialist party wouldn't lose anything if one of us supported the inexperienced Jun but even Jun traveled back in time and she chose Duke Zena everything is my fault I unknowingly got accustomed to this peaceful life I didn't prepare enough for jun's arrival and that ruined everything she remembered

the Duke's word lady arisa's mother the late maress of house Monique was the daughter of a peasant the prince also came to the riverbank as she was emotionally pained he saw her walking both of them gazed at each other Arista was surprised oh she then stumbled thinking I don't want to see him so why now of all times as she was about to fall and TAA caught her lady Arista are you all right aresa replied oh Anda I'm feeling a bit dizzy she suggested you should sit down she said I brought you here since Upstream

is even more crowded let's rest in the cool shade over there for a bit and go back then Ilia also noticed the prince and then she bowed to him the next day the final day of the Royal Court Council meetings the emperor asked my son will you say that again the prince said I said I do not want that father everyone was surprised at his decision as he refused the emperor the emperor said you're going against my word he replied yes your decision to name lady aresa as the the empress and to name the lady

of house Zena as the queen I do not agree with that aresa was shocked bakus in the past he always obeyed the emperor almost as if he were a vassel but now he's going against his Majesty's will in public the emperor asked why do you disagree even though everyone else here is for it the prince said Duke Zena I would like to ask you one thing before I answer my father he replied yes your highness he looked towards June and said in exchange for accepting that lady as a queen were you thinking of requiring she'd

be officially accepted into the Imperial Palace before the empress's official crowning the Duke replied that is correct your highness shouldn't there be at least one lady here in court to assist the royal family then the prince said as I thought father even if the empress and queen are named in this court today lady aresa must wait another year for her coming of age if a queen officially enters the court before the empress the queen will have to perform the empress's tasks but unlike lady aresa This Woman's capabilities have not been verified however your highness it

is only right for a queen to stand in the stad of the empress Jun flared up as she heard that Duke Zena said since you are officially leading state affairs you must have someone to Aid you by your the prince cut him off I've been doing fine by myself all this time the emperor grinned thinking look at this boy he asked then what do you wish to do the prince said there's still one year until lady arestia Monique becomes an adult please postpone this matter until then as it should have been the Duke asked again

but what about the Affairs of the state the prince replied I will take care of that by myself without a problem and that should be enough time to test what the lady of house Zena is capable of a year later on the day of Lady Arista Moni's Coming of Age everything will be decided then after the me Duke Rass was giving his opinion I mean I was really surprised there he would always listen to everything his majesty had decided but he was so obstinate when objecting to that Duke ruse said but this is better for

us as well with this there's no way they can bear the child of the air first he then added however they will take this as an opportunity to take the crown of the empress if they can prove that lady's capabilities Duke Rass said since things have come this far only a child of Prophecy stands a chance against another child of Prophecy Kiran you should prepare yourself to send your daughter to the Imperial Court Marquis replied I can't agree to that I want Tia to live her life as she wants it doesn't matter what cost I

have to pay she should at least after the meeting the prince took aresa to the Garden aresa was deep in her thoughts sitting in the garden why was I so careless until now what a fool I was I thought I Was preparing for the future as much as I could but I'm so powerless to stand against this great tide when was it I'm sure I've felt like this before I feel like I'm sinking into a deep ocean right just like 5 years ago at the temple she felt as she was drifted away the prince who

was in front of her jolted shouting aresa while aresa felt nauseous oh something smells Pleasant it's so wonderfully warm I could just follow asleep like this suddenly the prince hugged her saying I'm sorry that made her snap back to reality she gets flustered huh you um what is he continued I'm sorry aresa I know you don't want to be the empress but I forced them to postpone the decision again on my own I'm sorry aresa said your highness but the prince doesn't stop I wanted to respect your wishes and you're probably disappointed but I couldn't

be of any help this is the most I could do right now I'm terribly sorry I couldn't be of proper help hearing that aresa said not at all your highness she thinks in her mind what is he talking about in fact he's done as best as he could to buy me more time yet he's apologizing he's the Crown Prince of an Empire yet he's honestly confessing that he doesn't have enough influence the prince added but I promise when the time comes and if you haven't changed your mind then I will follow your wishes I swear

on my name I won't try to force you or pressure you into anything so I beg you aresa please don't give up on yourself and fall into despair after hearing all of that aresa felt touched and she cried then they had lunch together as she was eating the prince said don't eat only the vegetables Arista wondered he doesn't usually eat this kind of meal I wonder if he's being considerate of me later the prince told her your mother was an amazing person I was scolded by her once when I was young he mischievously added actually

it's a secret aresa asked how did that happen he began when I was about 4 I visited house Monique with my father back then I didn't want to listen to the adults talk about boring things so I left on my own I was wandering around the mansion by myself when I came across it it looked like the scepter of a country symbolizing Sovereign Authority and it was decorated with rubies and silver blue thread aresa wondered a scepter decorated with rubies and silver blue thread what is that I've never seen it before there's a treasure that

I don't know about in our house the prince continued I was young and I got greedy I wanted it so I took it that's when I ran into your mother her mother asked the prince your highness what are you doing here by yourself he quickly hides the Baton behind his back her mother asked what are you hiding behind your back the prince replied it it's nothing she said I'll only get more curious if you keep hiding it come now let me have a peek I won't tell anyone seeing the bat and she was shocked that's

she scolded him your highness did you take that from the room there how can the Crown Prince of a great Empire do such a thing you secretly took someone else's property without saying a word the prince gets flustered I I just the prince dropped the Batten and she quickly catches it she then reprimanded him don't ever do something like this again do you understand the prince felt embarrassed saying I really learned my lesson that day after hearing that aresa said so that's what happened the prince then told at first I thought she was extremely disrespectful

for scolding me since I'm the Prince but I realized something later on nobody truly criticized me out of concern but her eyes were full of affection when she scolded me I wanted to see her again but I kept thinking of how severely she scolded me so I didn't have the courage to go see her and time passed by like that after a while she visited the palace with you just after you were born and I ran to her immediately that was probably the first time I cried that much in my life what happened that day

is a secret between us your highness and she warmly smiled at me as she said that he added your mother was a very warm but headstrong woman so there is nothing for you to be ashamed of aresa felt touched nobody would tell me anything about my mother's past would I be more confident now if I remembered something about my mother then the prince said I think one's bloodline isn't that important I don't think that a person's background or lineage is more important than one's heart I hope that you will think the same way Arista after

aresa left for her home the prince was staring at the ceiling in his office Heron said I brought you some chamomile tea your highness he asked aren't you tired you should rest now the prince said this reminds me of my late mother my mother scorned me and hated me for being unrefined because I wasn't her own son yet mother adored that girl so much he questioned why do my father and mother adore that girl so much is it because she's of a pure bloodline unlike me with every breath I took I felt like I was

being discriminated against because of my background if I had grown up with this same mindset and had learned the truth what would I have thought if I had learned of her background wouldn't I have felt it unfair that I was hated and discriminated against even though we were both descended from peasants my resentment would have targeted her even though she did nothing wrong I would have been foolish and immature her and knelt in front of him and said yes your past self would have done so you would have resented his majesty and hated lady aresa

and would have refused to open yourself up to anyone but how are you now today you clearly announced everyone that instead of letting another woman enter the court first you'd rather have no one by your side you prepared a meal full of dishes that you don't usually touch just for her and you shared a memory that you've kept to yourself for a long time even now you are thinking only about her later at a social Gathering Ana said there's a lot of talk about lady Jun Xena lately I was hoping she would Clash with lady

rehea but surprisingly she has managed to assimilate and get everyone under her command the ladies of the aristocrats are already following lady Jun as their leader Arista thinks in her mind she's already leading the party herself is she really the Jun that I know she's a different person from the past back when she was laughed at by the maids for being too friendly Ana said turns out she's quite smart she only just became his daughter yet she memorized most of the noble families and got used to Etiquette very quickly aresa remembered it's understandable that she

would be able to do that if she traveled back in time just like me but what happened to make her change like that she's like a blade drenched in Poison then aresa suggested we don't have enough information we need to persuade more more of the neutral Merchants to our side if we are to weaken the aristocrats Authority it's important to earn their trust and information since they hold a lot of power over the merchant business and one more thing let's increase the spies and sources of information we have in the Duke's household businesses and domains

from now on intelligence will be key she raised her mind now that I think about it the aristocrats held more power in the past timeline and the situation turned for the worse after he wrote to the throne luckily the aristocrats were held in check here because their scheme to push for a fiance during the foundation Day Celebrations was revealed but will the tides turn again now that June is on their side I can't let them roam freely to do as they wish princy asked is that all for today Arista asked oh I'm sorry your highness

I made you wait she OED out prinia then aresa call her prina she said by the way way aresa I hear the boutique that you're sponsoring is thriving lately I bought one too everyone has been praising the BOS that are sold only at that Boutique even the Aristocrat ladies Can't Hold Back Ana told it's all thanks to Lady Arista discovering that crafter I wonder how she found someone like that aresa replied I really found him just by chance she remembered in my past life if binos are becoming more extravagant that means dresses will become simpler

in response if June notices this too then she commanded antia the Aristocrat Merchants might begin buying muslin in large quantities you should keep them in stock before then she complied I understand what you're after please leave it to me my lady suddenly caran spoke sorry to interrupt your discussion but it's about time for us to return prinia she said oh my it's already this late Arista asked you're done sparring with my father caran he replied yeah he really is on another level thanks for letting me learn house Moni's technique Arista powed thinking I'm jealous it's

my family's technique but I can't study it as the time they returned it was raining while holding the umbrella carian suddenly began now that I think about it remember the people who ambushed us before they arrested the culprits while we were at the Palace aresa said yes I heard and they all committed suicide in prison the aristocrats sent assassins to kill me since they failed to push princess Moira as the prince fiance they grew anxious and went after me instead I hope they'll stay quiet for a while now that they have an equally strong card

carian asked what do you mean she replied smiling oh it's nothing then Ken asked are you upset aresa questioned back about what carian said about Prince rues I hear the lady of house Zena has been eagerly appealing to him arestia replied o I don't mind caran said right because you boldly declared you'd become a knight since a long time ago then caran jokingly asked how about me aresa was surprised what he teased my background is respectable I'm talented and I'll be devoted to one person perhaps you don't know but this Dandy here is highly sought

after as a marriage partner aresa smiled what do you mean Dandy that's not like you suddenly her father called for her Tia come here she replied yes papa she rushed to him in the rain caran shouted huh hey your umbrella after reaching to her father he said you got all wet in that instant aresa recalled on the night the grand Council finally ended Papa told me about my mother my maternal grandmother fell in love with a knight who had no title she fled from house Cena to give birth to my mother but she'd been raised

as a proper Noble lady so she didn't know how to do anything and thus they were always poor my grandfather left as a mercenary to feed his family but he returned dead my grandmother grew ill soon after that my mother went to house Zena to save her but she was coldly rejected in the in the end she held a funeral for grandmother and had to roam about alone that's when she was attacked by some unknown gang Papa and His Majesty saved her in that moment and had her name entered as a member of House Sonia

Papa didn't mention my mother's Origins until now he was worried that I might be hurt by Duke Zena who is always cold to me even though we're relatives but I'm fine as long as papa is with me she thought it would have hurt me very much in the past perhaps it's thanks to his words she remembered the prince's word there is nothing for you to be ashamed of she recalled during the foundation Day Celebrations we had walked together when it rained like this she thought I wonder if he's looking at this rain too no he's

a busy person so that's impossible surely he has a mountain of work to do since it's been raining after such a long drought she then thinks about alanet is it also raining like this in the Kingdom of Rua there hasn't been any news of him what is he thinking about right now don't say such kind words to me don't look at me with such soft eyes don't care about me at all I don't want anyone to confuse me anymore because I'm determined not to love anyone anymore the welcomed rain after the drought ended up flooding

the lumo river a week later June and arestia were summoned to a conference that was discussing emergency counter measures in the meeting the emperor said this is quite amazing lady Jun creating a temporary Levy using bags of sand while collecting donations to Aid the people I summoned you too since I wanted to hear some different opinions and you've come up with an excellent measure amazing lady June she replied I'm honored your majesty aresa thinks about it a temporary Levy made of sandbags I hadn't thought of something like that before then the emperor said now then

I will embrace both lady jun's temporary measure and Lady arista's preventive measure for the future good work both of you after the meeting the emperor took a breath of relief I'm a bit tired so I need to lie down I'll leave the rest of you my son as the prince was about to leave June suggested we should discuss the details about the sandbags I just suggested he replied oh you can explain that to the chancellor Jun said oh dear you should also hear the details of my proposal there's a lot that you need to know

as well now we can talk about this over a meal the prince saw aresa walking he called for her aresa if you have a moment suddenly the high priest Came cheerfully Calling dear Pioneer Pioneer aresa replied your Holiness aresa sparkled by his Blessing she said thank you your Holiness she wondered huh what happened to his mysterious first impression aresa asked asked what brings you to the Imperial Palace again your Holiness he replied everyone keeps hiding you away and they never bring you to the temple so I had no choice but to come find you here

and there are so many beautiful people here in the Imperial Palace isn't it my duty to bless all these people here as the staff of God he then said dear Pioneer won't you grant me some of your time I have something to tell you she looked towards the prince and replied pardon but seeing that the prince takes a sigh then high priest I shall excuse myself first the priest said I'll see you soon your highness now dear Pioneer shall we go as the prince was leaving aresa thought is this really all right though he looked

like he wanted to tell me something the high priest he helped heal carian and he supported me during the grand Council but he is a disciple of God in the end even if the high priest doesn't agree with the Temple's opinion they are all still from the same Circle she resolved I shouldn't let my guard down his majesty distanced himself from the temple all this time because he was wary of religion interfering with politics as they reached the garden the priest said it was good that I chose to come here because I got to meet

you in person like this she asked your Holiness did you have some business in the capital he replied yes I came here since the future son of the Empire called for me but even divine power can't interfere with the light that Fades with the flow of time all I can do is bless the light in the meantime aresa concluded he's here to visit his majesty who has grown weak but of course divine power can't reverse aging he told unfortunately we don't have much time to talk even though we finally met again I will be away

from the capital for a while after today aresa asked pardon the priest said you will hear some news soon please don't be too surprised and do respond bravely aresa replied I understand she realized so something surprising will happen soon and it's urgent enough for him to leave his majesty behind yet he can't tell me what it is exactly then the priest smiled you are bright indeed the one God will always be with you dear Pioneer seeing him waving aesa thinks huh he's blessing me again he then said I must go visit his majesty now I

wish you good health until we meet again as the priest was going he saw some ladies talking oh who are these beautiful beings here oh my my lady you are like a lake reflecting the Sun's light and you madam remind me of a do drop resting on The Petal of a red rose may all the creations of the one God be blessed Duke Zena and Jun were watching all of that the Duke said the high priest is trying to support that vulgar lowborn we must make the first move I will reaffirm our relationship with the

temple and you must keep a hold on the Crown Prince Jun replied I know she looked at aresa furiously later in the sparring Arista got felt exhausted caran asked hey you all right are you tired already she replied oh yeah I'm not feeling that strong today she realized I got out of breath so fast unlike before I'm worn out from this short duel she said it must be because I didn't have time to exercise since I've had so much work lately carian extends his hand gez oh well take my hand she replied ah thank you

as they walked back aresa said and I still have so much work to do caran said isn't the banquet for the foundation Day celebration coming up again soon aresa thought they're probably going to assign us some again under the guise of a test to be the empress seeing how June and I were asked to come up with a budget proposal a while ago she then said I should probably get back to the office now I have to go through some papers so I'll leave first caran replied all right I should leave for my patrol too

noticing aresa conflicted car and shouted from behind hey softy don't faint on your way back Arista said inly I'm not that weak looking at the pile of work she said actually no I really might collapse then she decided I should calm down a bit before I start she ordered the maid I'll be having tea so bring me hot water and some refreshments the maid complied understood Squire aresa then she opens the Wardrobe then again I have this here the Silver T set exclusively for Royals given to me by his majesty she recalled the emperor saying

it's a gift only for you do keep it with you and use it all the time she thought perhaps it's to remember our time together at the Summer Palace or to express his support for me but either way I can't carelessly use something this precious if an aristocrat sees they'll definitely question me for using a t set for Royals she said aloud I should take this home and keep it there then someone knocks the door she replied yes come in Duchess ernia came and said this place is still as old as ever it's been a

long time lady aresa aresa was surprised Duchess ernia Ras you've come all the way to the knight's office Your Grace oh the commander isn't here right now Duchess told actually I'm here to see you I'd like you to spare some time for me then The Duchess sat down and said as you already know I'm not exactly fond of you but seeing how things are as they are I will help you so so don't disappoint me aresa said you mean The Duchess said I'm talking about this year's Foundation Day celebration of the three days of the

celebration I will be in charge of the first day for the next two days one day each you and the lady of house Zena will host the Celebration by custom I should be hosting all three days but I'm not as Lively as I used to be and His Majesty mentioned holding a test to prove your capabilities so I thought this would be a good opportunity do you understand lady aresa you must appear better and more qualified no matter what she said I won't forgive you if you lose to a lowborn with no background aresa felt

accused The Duchess reverted I didn't mean you by that after all you are a daughter of house Monique aresa replied yes I understand she thinks in her mind so she acknowledges me because I am a legitimate daughter despite my bloodline The Duchess said the lady of house Zena is definitely not qualified to be an empress she's arrogant and I won't let someone who doesn't know respect enter the royal family never aresa asked did something happen she remembered oh the Rose Palace Duchess said so you heard aresa replied I don't know the details though The Duchess

told back then she wasn't adopted into house Zena yet meaning she was nothing but a commoner however she claimed that a maid was being rude to her and scolded the maid very harshly matters within that Palace are my responsibility yet she had the nerve to scold a maid in front of my eyes so I pointed that out to her and then Jun said the prince gave this Palace to me as my temporary residence as such the servants in this Palace are under my jurisdiction she felt annoyed it was unbearable to watch her act as if

she meant something to Prince Ruess and when did His Highness give her that Palace how dare she act so disrespectfully in front of me it's ridiculous honestly in the end His Highness had to come in person to end the dispute the prince said she is a guest of the Rose Palace do make sure she feels comfortable during her stay here hearing that aresa thinks indeed that was a great response the maids will recognize junah as a guest that they must attend to meanwhile it also recognizes that the Rose Palace is under the jurisdiction of The

Duchess suddenly the maid came and said I've brought you your tea Squire aresa looking at the maid aresa thinks how late anything I ask for comes so late these days duut aeria noticed lavender tea I see but this seems a bit different from before Arista asked pardon she said no it must be my imagination after drinking the tea Arista suddenly felt nauseous as she staggers The Duchess said I shall take my leave since you don't seem well though you are just a squire now you are still a knight in title shouldn't you take better care

of yourself and your health after Duchess left aresa wondered why does this tea smell so strong actually I feel like this happened in the past before I traveled back in time it was probably at the party celebrating June's first year in the Empire but wasn't that because I was pregnant back then then under the pile of papers aresa found a box what's this box this wasn't here when I left to train I wonder who left it here she found a dress inside with a note how is work going kid I'm sure you're struggling to finish

everything that's been piling up over the past few days and you probably didn't even remember to get a dress if you think you can go wearing just anything I'll personally have to teach you a lesson she realized that it was from caran I don't know about other people but I won't watch you lose to that lady of house Cena well I'm not saying you need to become the empress though anyway this is our first time participating as partners to a party so I had this ordered make sure to dress yourself appropriately she then remembered right

caran did mention this a few days ago he said I hear His Highness will escort the lady of house Zena on the second day poor kid you're going to enter the Hall by yourself aresa said said oh that's true I could ask my father but he doesn't enjoy parties I don't want to burden him unnecessarily caran interjected then shall I help you out she was surprised what Arista thinks in her mind still a dress at a time like this I hope it doesn't mean what I think it does the Note continued I hope you're not

getting any weird ideas because of this don't give your hopes up you always get ahead of yourself in this area I can't put my guard down can I reading that aresa groaned gosh why did he have to send this whatever I can't return it anyway so I'll have to wear it again aresa felt dizzy she wondered what's wrong with me today she concluded this won't do I have to rest I won't be able to get any work done like this later at the audience with the emperor according to Lady jun's proposal the rest of the

palace's budget will be used to hold a parade of the three nage the emperor asked you want to hold a parade during this hot weather Jun said it's a good way to discipline those who have grown lazy from the heat moreover it will be a welcome sight for the people of the capital thus it hits two birds with one stone after hearing that aresa thought her budget plan is solely for the foundation Day Celebrations it doesn't take into account the knights who have to do the actual work in this heat she recalled of course I

also once thought of everyone other than myself and Prince Rives as people that I must watch over and Rule I never thought about the people who had to do the real work behind the scenes I was simply a doll made for the role and title of empress they pointed out and when I look at your proposal lady aresa I see that you still don't know how to plan a budget you wish to use 10 Stein for the Royal Banquet and 25 Stein to support the management of each domain the remaining amount you wish to return

to the administration aresa responded I believe anything more than that exceeds my authority I've written the purpose of the distribution of the she suddenly felt dizzy again and stumbled she wondered what's happening suddenly she heard the voice a new Bud grows from the dry roots of Life the young Bud peeking out from the soil bathed in salt and seab Breeze will reach out to the continent with new roots of Life praise and rejoice this New Birth worship the six roots of Life aresa realized the voice of Vita the one God she wondered why am I

hearing this voice now Of All Times could it be is this a new Prophecy from God realizing that she quickly turned and wondered did you not hear that a moment later the emperor recites the prophecy a young Bud peeking out from the soil bathed in salt and sea breeze he then said a soil bathed in salt and sea breeze must mean a place near the ocean hearing that the prince said I agree your majesty the terms six roots and new Bud must be referring to the birth of a new high priest the prince said but

that's odd I believe this isn't time for a new high priest aresa thought so this must be what the high priest meant but that means he knew there would be a prophecy how is that possible is there a way to predict the birth of a new high priest then the emperor said the prophecy that the priest brought is identical to what lady aresa told me this morning so it's true that she can hear the Prophecies of God at his announcement aristocratic and imperialist faction again faced each other as the murmuring began aristatus said inwardly I

told his majesty separately because I didn't want others to know yet he announced it in front of everyone this is too much your majesty the second day of the foundation Day celebrations Arista was in the banquet hall thinking now that the aristocrats know that I heard a prophecy they'll be more wary of me even today carian was staring at her noticing that she asked what is it caran he said well really old sayings are always right you know they do say clothes make the person and you look even more brilliant today I tried to find

a spot that wasn't as impressive but I failed after hearing that aresa chuckled what's with that then caran said good that's it you're going to keep smiling exactly like that today got it you look so stunning so of course you have to be the star for this next song as the next song played the started dancing the prince was watching them suddenly with the sound of Crash someone screamed Kya what happened the servant said I apologize I didn't notice that lady Lanier was behind me she said your dress got dirty lady Lanier how unfortunate laner

complained I agree lady aresa and this was one of my favorite dresses the servants are very careless today for some reason aresa said it's a Pity to hear that it was your favorite dress I'll send a made to the special guest room so you can get changed she said inwardly don't get upset stay calm Lanier refused that's not necessary I can't trust that Ma to be careful either suddenly they heard another scream realizing what had happened aresa took a sigh she went to rehea and asked are you all right lady rehea she said oh lady

aresa I suddenly felt a bit nauseous but the tablecloth is too long and drapes to the floor I almost got hurt because of this shouldn't you have paid more attention since you're the one hosting this banquet as she whispered started at her complaints between Noble's aresa concluded she's blatantly trying to ruin the banquet everyone here is determined to insult me today suddenly her head started aching again oh no my head again then June came to rehea and said that was very disrespectful lady rehea apologize to lady aresa right now rheya acted oh lady Jun and

Duke Xena she smirked and said I'm sorry lady Arista I was a bit too harsh taking advantage of the situation Duke Zena said you can't even host a banquet properly looks like you should take a lesson from my daughter's banquet tomorrow they giggled and started snickering at aresa aresa said I'll make sure to be more careful so everyone can enjoy the banquet comfortably she thinks in her mind I'm getting sick again I hope I can last until this is over then aresa asked Jun why are you walking around alone without his highness she replied why

do you ask does that concern you he'll come back to me soon so there's nothing you need to worry about then carian said oh dear I wonder why His Highness keeps leaving such a beauty by herself oh I think I heard he left after receiving a message from his majesty it's a Pity that Prince Ruess is so busy on a day like this I mean being Partners usually means staying with each other after all hearing that June doesn't say anything for a moment then she began I didn't think you were one to hide behind someone

else like this lady aresa I'm quite disappointed if you're to Aid and support Prince rues shouldn't you learn to stand on your own without any help aresa replied that's what I used to think as well but now I've learned that standing alone isn't always what's best Jun said bats are ridiculous then caran Cut Her Off lady Jun you're alone now anyway won't you grant me the honor of dancing with you as caran took Jun away aresa said in w l thank you caran Arista remembered her words if you're to Aid and support Prince rues shouldn't

you learn to stand on your own without any help that's what I thought in my past life as well but I've changed now when caran and Jun started dancing Jun knowingly stomped caran oh seeing that aresa thinks that must hurt then a servant came holding tea to aresa she asked what is this he answered Prince R sent this for you my lady then she turned and saw ruus he nods to her aresa took a sip and thinks it's refreshing and sweet is this tea with honey I feel like all the frustrations that were building up

inside me are slowly disappearing I want this banquet to end so I can finally rest after the banquet caran said good job kid I was anxious since you looked like you were going to faint at any second she replied I was able to get through threw it thanks to your help as she saw him in pain she asked are you okay your foot was stepped on right he asked oh you saw that is one vicious woman she put her whole weight down on my foot Arista worriedly asked was it that bad are you sure you're

all right caran said I'm not all right actually I think I might die from the pain hearing that aresa gets tensed with worry really does it hurt a lot let me see carian backed away and teased Hey kid don't be so passionate now let me see aresa said what I'm worrying about you and you suddenly caran puts his hand at her cheeks and kissed her forehead aresa was shocked at first she then blushed and gets flustered what are you doing caran caran asked what are you acting so surprised for I'm sure you hugged that green

weed before she said that was when we were young he replied when you were young you still look like a little kid to me you know come on don't get any funny ideas in your head that's 10 years too early for you I'm going on ahead all right see you tomorrow as he was leaving aresa thought he's treating me like a child again don't be so mean the next day Lena asked my lady are you sure about not talking to his lordship you couldn't even stand up this morning if you happen to collapse during the

banquet arestia replied it's not that bad don't worry so much Kina was looking concerned at the banquet the prince asked I think you should rest are you sure you're all right she replied I'm fine your highness the prince gets alarmed at her response and said this won't do I'll call the doctor right he started walking holding her hand the prince agreed all right but you must rest and see the Royal doctor after this she replied yes your highness then they started dancing together as they were dancing aresa prayed hang in there just a little longer

aresa just a bit more she again felt nauseous she was at the verge of passing out she said my apologies your highness saying that she fainted the prince caught her from Fallen shouting his name aresa after she opened her eyes she felt everything is blurry she wondered where am I she saw her father yelling what did you just say make her better now the doctor apologized forgive me your grace aresa calls out father her father quickly went to her side and said yes I'm here can you recognize me she said I can't see clearly what's

happening her father told you worked yourself too hard you'll get better once you get some rest she thought everything looks hazy this has never happened before no matter how exhausted I was I don't think this is because I strained myself she asked is this poison her father was pained Tia she said tell me father he replied yes we're trying to find the one behind all this and His Majesty ordered his men to find the high priest just in case but even if we find the culprit there's no guarantee of an antidote it's important that you

endure this until his Holiness arrives she asked and the culprit he told our lead was the maid who assisted you in the first Squadron office but that maid was already dead when we went to question her on who gave her the order she recalled thinking his majesty must have given me the silver tea set to prevent something like this from happening she then said actually a servant delivered a drink to me on the second day of the banquet he said it was from His Highness but I think he should be checked again her father replied

all right I'll go and investigate that right away so you rest comfortably after that she fell asleep later at another day the prince came to visit her while she was asleep he brushed her hair saying this is the first time you haven't avoided My Touch Arista was nauseous wondering who's there the prince continued but I didn't want that to happen in this way you're quite cruel to me really I want to ask you something but I can't out of fear that that you'll close yourself off again I wonder if you know that I'm sorry that

I can't let you go even though I know this happened because of me we're looking for the high priest everywhere so please bear with this until then he was grieving later aresa finds herself walking a path full of Darkness while walking she suddenly saw a green light calling her name aresa lady Aris open she opened her eyes and saw high priest and Marquis looking at her the priest asked are you awake lady aresa he said don't get up yet my lady you must rest for a while she asked how long has it been he told

you've been sleeping for almost 3 months she was surprised it's been that long she looked at her father thinking father he looks so gaunt now he spoke I'm glad I can see you again father then the priest said I must introduce myself again May the blessing of life always be with you I am V's second rot cuntis ARA thought he was the third but now he's the second does that mean the other high priest is with God now the priest said my speculation is that you were affected by two poisons she asked to he explained

it's difficult to discern the exact types of poison when using a neutralizing spell so perhaps it was luck that I've come across a similar case such as this before taking this poison for a prolonged period will cause nausea it also makes one's chest feel tight and induce es heavy breathing it also drives one to feel emotionally unstable aresa said now that I think about it I felt like that even before I collapsed the priest added digesting the poison a couple of times won't cause death however once it accumulates inside the body it can become deadly

and especially for women if taken in small amounts over a long period it can harm their bodies the womb will go dry and the woman will not only have a hard time getting pregnant she will be unable to give birth safely after hearing that arisa's mind raced oh wait wait a poison that causes heavy breathing and emotional instability and the pregnancy she remembered I had the same kind of symptoms before going back in time now that I think about it I may have been frail in the past but should have been able to control my

mood yet I was continuously Furious and irritated the time the toxic symptoms of the poison emerged was was a few months after I became the queen I simply thought it was because I resented him for not looking back at me and because I was annoyed by June and I thought I was more likely to have a miscarriage because of my frail body and the stress from all my work but to think that it could have all been because someone poisoned me she then asked does that mean I can't bear children from now on he replied

oh I can't say for sure he added did you know that your mother also had these symptoms from the same poison Arista quickly turned towards her father seeing her curious look he said if his Holiness here hadn't come to find us she probably would have died at that time the priest told there is hope since she's an example of recovery but it's hard to say since your case is a bit different from hers Arista asked because two poisons were used he explained yes the second poison probably Amplified the effects of the poison that had accumulated

in your body since there is no way your symptoms would have been this severe I'm glad that I blessed you multiple times before I left on my journey I just couldn't help but worry about you if not for those blessings you would have passed away before I arrived aresa replied I see thank you your Holiness then her father said the servant who delivered the poison to you was already killed but after investigating we found that count lania was the one who gave the order the count is currently being interrogated in jail to uncover his other

crimes you don't need to worry about anything just rest comfortably after saying that Marquis and the hi Rus left the room and caran came in seeing him aresa calls his name carian carian quickly hugs her and said thank goodness thank goodness it wasn't too late I thought I'd never see you again I thought I'd never hear your voice again aresa said sorry caran continued don't get hurt again aresa she said all right I won't later aresa saw a report Jun was buying large quantities of muslin seeing that she advised send a message to Ana telling

her to sell all the muslin that you'd asked her to buy to house Cena you'll leave the pricing to her simply mentioned that she should sell them as expensively as possible after advising that she said inwardly good luck struggling with funds then the baron said count laner is the only one who was in contact with both the maid who served you in the first Squadron office and the attendant who delivered you a drink during the banquet he during that aresa thought there's no way count Lanier would have planned this on his own Duke Zena is

definitely behind all of this he's going to avoid accusations using count Lanier she wondered did Jun take part in this as well she then said there must be a document with the details somewhere the count must have preserved some evidence in case Duke Zena tried to cut ties Baron Carol find a way to either persuade count Lanier or to dig up their Trail he complied understood after that AR IA heard that his majesty grew very ill apparently he collapsed during an outburst he had while commanding people to track down the true Mastermind behind her poisoning

after Arista met the Emperor who was sick she thought he was getting better a while ago but now his majesty is so ill because of me the emperor said lady aresa I'm glad to see that you are well again she said I am so sorry your majesty he said don't blame yourself the time given to me has come to an end that's all may I ask you for one last favor she replied please do your majesty he said even if you choose to succeed your family I hope you'll stay by his side as a friend

at least aresa complied I swear I will do so your majesty then the emperor said I leave him to you and let me give you one last small gift I hope it will help protect you hearing that aresa asked pardon I don't understand your majesty after saying that the emperor fell asleep seeing him aresa thinks in her mind he was always so strong and full of life but he's grown so frail now your majesty I hope you'll get well soon and rise again just like how I was saved by your grace after closing the door

aresa was met with the prince he said it's been a while arestia said I apologize your highness it's my fault that he's he cut her off why is that your fault don't blame or belittle yourself so easily you are clearly a victim do not volunteer to take on a sin for something you haven't done and don't worry too much about father he's always been full of vigor so I'm sure he'll recover soon she replied yes I agree then the prince said I was afraid that I would lose you forever aresa was surprised your highness the

prince added count Lanier attempted to hurt you so we will make an example out of him this time aresa asked your highness won't you postpone the Count's punishment temporarily he asked why arestia explained HEK obviously not the true culprit behind this I want to use this opportunity to lure out everyone who was behind this attack after hearing that the prince was curious so you want to use him as bait all right I shall hand over everything regarding this investigation to house Monique however this is clearly challenging the royal family as well the Count's punishment can't

be postponed for a long time I'll give you 3 months you can discuss the rest with Duke verita then aresa said thank you your highness outside the emperor Chambers Duke Zena shouted you're telling me that only my sons and I are allowed to enter he questioned then what about my daughter the servant said it's just as I've informed you she is not allowed to take part in the audience with his majesty the Duke demanded why is that the servant explained this is an order from his majesty his majesty said that if he choose to object

regarding this matter he will also deny your entry Your Grace hearing that June showed her disapproval after Arista came out the Duke said so it's true that lady aresa was allowed to have an audience what is His Highness thinking how could he allow the cause of this situation to have an audience with the emperor aresa thinks in her mind I was the only one allowed to have an audience is this the gift that his majesty mentioned Marquis warned the Duke watch your words Duke say my daughter did cause an inconvenience for his majesty however did

you forget that you almost became family with the main culprit who harmed my daughter the Duke shouted what suddenly a nobleman intervened please calm down my lords I think you both need to cool down a bit he said Marquis Monique I do hope you can understand how anxious the Duke is since he's not even allowed to have an audience when he is simply worried about his Majesty's Health looking at him aresa thought Lord Mila he's the son of Marquis Mila and the heir of their family Lord Mila turned to aresa lady arestia I am relieved

to see that you are well she replied thank you after that aresa started walking she saw June and both of them looked at each other aresa resolved if she was the one who poisoned me and if she had done that in the past as well I won't stand by and do nothing later an announcement was made the emperor has passed away the emperor has passed away in the throne room nobles were gathered to see the new emperor people chanted bow before the new son welcome the new leader of the Empire long live the new emperor

long live the new emperor then the emperor rues began the late Emperor was called the graceful ruler because he loved and treasured his people I pray that he is blessed with peace after returning to V's Grace I rues caloden Shana castina hereby declare that I will continue my father's Legacy and lead the Empire after his declaration people started chanting again with joy long live the new emperor long live the new emperor long live the new emperor later at the late Emperor's funeral Duke Arin send his regards our great son of the Glorious castina Empire may

you have peace in Vita's arms aresa saw ruus who was standing at the funeral looking sad his sad face made her grieve more after some time her father came and said IA we should go back now she replied yes Father as they were walking back aresa recalled Rua's sad face and rushed back the prince was standing in the cemetery after reaching she called your majesty while turning towards her he asked aresa what brings you here you should go aresa shouted get a hold of yourself she knelt in front of him and said your majesty you

must stay strong you must overcome this the late Emperor wouldn't want you to be like this Rivas said right he worried about the people even until his final moments and if I don't stay strong the Empire will fall too aresa said that's not true he was truly concerned about you your majesty Rivas said that can't be father worried about the Empire because he couldn't trust me even until the end aresa protested no your majesty the late Emperor suddenly they heard someone shouting I am a rightful candidate for his m Majesty's future partner why do you

stop me without even asking his majesty sir Seymour said nobody can enter aresa looked towards Jun and wondered what was she doing here seeing Jun Rivas said I've lingered here for too long let's return aresa fist asked pardon then she complied ah yes then he asked arestia I have a favor to ask you she replied yes your majesty he asked will you stay with me tonight aresa was shocked pardon you're your majesty what he said I don't know if I'll be able to endure this night by myself she was flustered your majesty he added I

apologize I knew it would be too much to ask then looking at the sky aresa said the weather has been so nice lately I think it's fine to take a walk at night even what do you think of that he replied thank you during their walk they went to the tree in the Royal Garden while looking at it ruas said the Marquis requested a transfer he wants you to be assigned to the second Squadron aresa asked father requested that rivus told he seems uneasy since something like that happened at the first Squadron he added I

didn't expect that he has always been a bit cold so I didn't know he loved his daughter this much then aresa told actually I wasn't very close to father in the beginning either I only saw how cold he usually was and I thought that he didn't love me so I always kept my distance ress asked asked then how did you become so close to him while remembering the past aresa said one day I had a terrible nightmare I felt very lonely and neglected as if I was all alone in the world so I tried reaching

out first and that's when I realized it even though father didn't openly Express himself he has always loved me all this time and I'm sure the late Emperor was the same you said that your father always thought you weren't good enough but that's not true the late Emperor trusted you and he was proud of you he told me this when all the princesses were invited as candidates to be your fiance he said he trusts you and would respect whatever decision you made I once asked him why he treats you so strictly if he trusts you

that much rivus asked and what did he say aresa told he said that he is the only one who can be strict with you though it hurt him to treat you like that it was only because you are someone who has to lead the empire into the future after hearing that ruus said is that so then looking at the branches aresa thinks it's been years since the buds grew it should be time for the flowers to bloom now I wonder why they haven't yet Ruess said you're still interested in these flowers I see she replied

oh yes of course you did explain it to me before but ruus said the tree isn't dead so let's wait a bit longer aresa gets surprised yes your majesty then Ru said I feel like I have a lot of memories especially about you here she replied it seems so he added and my impression of you changed a lot thanks to that she asked pardon Ru then told him actually I resented you until a few years ago aresa replied yes I knew Ru then sat down beside Zera and began actually the late Empress isn't my mother

I was adopted as her son in fact my birth mother was a maid working in the palace aresa was surprised what Ro continued I was raised under the empress as soon as I was born since there are people who would question my legitimacy if they knew about my birth but obviously she wouldn't love a child that wasn't hers I thought of her as my mother at first and yearned for her affection but I gave up on that when I learned about my birth mother then I Met Your Mother I couldn't see her that often but

I liked how she greeted me with affection while scolding me sternly at times I thought she was the type of person people would call a mother he recalled then one day several assassins infiltrated and attacked the Imperial Palace the marianist instinctively wrapped her arms around you and lay low while I was left to stand by myself right next to her it was a natural thing to do and of course none of that was your fault but I couldn't help but compare the empress who ordered others to protect me with the Marist who jumped in to

protect you herself and that made me angry for no reason I felt as if I was abandoned by the person I trusted as a mother and felt hurt the marianist was your mother so it was obvious for her to love you but even the cold Empress was especially kind when it came to you nobody directed their affections toward me and you seem to monopolize all the love from those who I yearned to be loved by my father never praised me no matter how well I did yet he would be so glad whenever you accomplished something

I tried harder every time yet the result was always the same and so I came to resent you even envied you and the resentment grew as time went by then aresa remembered is that why he hated me so much in the past it's not like I'll forgive or forget what he did to me but I can understand him a bit more now then Ru said thank you I would have misunderstood my father even now if you hadn't told me what you knew aresa said I'm glad that I could help you understand a bit of the

late Emperor's sincerity then she thought they say a person becomes a star after they die I wonder if they shine so brightly like that because they miss the ones they had to leave behind as she was thinking Ru puts his head on her shoulder in the past I was resented by him even though I yearned for his affection now I can't be with him even though I've earned his trust I wonder how this all happened tears were dripping from Ro's eyes as he feel asleep at her shoulder aresa thought it must be uncomfortable like that

so he puts his head on her lap thinking I hope he'll have a nice dream even if it's just for a little bit the night went by arestia opened her eyes and was shocked oh no how can this be why did I wake up in the emperor's bed chamber the emperor spent all of last night with other prestigious Nobles so luckily there won't be any scandalous rumors she then asked the maids why am I here one of them replied we're also not quite sure but this is from his majesty they presented her with a note

that says I wanted to go speak with you in person but I can't since there are a lot of eyes watching me thank you for last night I don't remember it very well but I think I had a good dream thanks to you ress caloden sh castina later aresa met with Ana who told her as you ordered we sold all we had in stock to a merchant affiliated with house Zena for triple the price Arista thinks in her mind it's going as IID expected muslin dresses were popular around this time before that's because highly decorated

binos were popular at the time resulting in a need for dresses that would match then she suggested let's try changing the binos this time make the decorations as simple as possible but at the same time more sophisticated and don't forget to purchase the most luxurious Fabrics before releasing the new BOS Ana complied understood lady arestia aresa thought once simpler binos become popular plain muslin will naturally become less so and the merchants with house Zena will suffer a great loss then Ana told by the way did you know there's a rumor saying that the boy CEST

Das gave birth to a few years ago isn't the Count's son though I suppose it's only a rumor so it's not something you should be concerned with Arista wondered an illegitimate son but those two are known to be a very close couple she said that is a bit concerning that kind of rumor doesn't start without a reason please look into it she thought while I rather left the capital to greet the ambassadors from Rua I received two letters one was a summon for me to participate in the council meeting this afternoon the other was a

letter from his majesty telling me not to visit the palace since he will deal with the meeting she said aloud they summoned me now to decide who will be the empress she remembered some of the aristocrats including the son of Marquis Mila are insisting that you should be a queen not an empress their reasoning is that you have succession writes and that you are a child of the prophecy she thinks he's been strongly pushing this during the council meetings probably with the aim to be elected as the commander of the third Squadron that will be

established soon I can't avoid this forever I have to end this matter that I've been postponing for the past 6 years even if it'll be painful later at the meeting the count said we would like house Monique to express their opinion regarding this matter for the past 6 months lady Jun has proven her worth as an empress and has taken care of Court matters excellently while you were away meanwhile you've been acting as if you will succeed house Monique your behavior is clearly odd lady aresa hearing that aresa was about to begin I but Ru

interrupted has Lady Jun proven herself to be better than lady Arista even once lady arista's capabilities are unquestionable moreover let me remind you that my father never approved of Lady Jun the count argued but your majesty she can't be compared to lady aresa don't you think because there is one important flaw about lady aresa aresa thought what wait could it be the count continued the most important duty of an empress is to give birth to an heir what happened to her is truly unfortunate however a rightful Heir must be born from an empress if Lady

aresa becomes the empress even though she's infertile that will result in a political conflict in the future when she's unable to give birth bir to an air so what then after hearing that aristocratic faction broke out that's right how can someone infertile become the empress that is unheard of aresa looked towards imperialist and they doesn't speak making her think I see so all of you were thinking that too seeing that aresa resolved and stands up she said there is no need to concern yourselves over that matter because I have no intention of becoming the empress

Ru gets shocked after hearing that and quickly stands up aresa continued your majesty I am a woman who has no right to Stand By Your Side as they say please break your engagement with house Monique hearing that Ro shouted arestia listening to that Duke Arin and Duke Rass also burst out lady aresa you can't decide that on your own without discussing the matter with us breaking off the engagement means she filled in but I refuse to accept any and all connections to the Royal Family so I do hope all of you will stop your criticisms

here after saying that aresa left the meeting Hall Ru came rushing behind her saying aresa that's why I told you not to come she said your majesty this was all within my expectations this was a problem that had to be taken care of one day Ru said I will take care of it so she cut him off that doesn't change the fact that I am unable to Bear a child he argued the high priest said that it's not certain she replied it is to them and if you disagree you will only make them turn their

backs on you R said that is a risk I am willing to take for you arestia said your majesty you made a promise to me before you said you would respect my wishes regarding this engagement after hearing that Ru gets a little calm and asked is there really no way to turn back he said this was a fate decided for us the moment we were born yet you willingly broke that connection in front of everyone do you really hate me that much hearing that aresa almost cried she said your majesty I won't deny that I

admired you for a while before she said inwardly I've longed to say that in the past but all of this is over now she said but not anymore Ru gets stunned for a moment then he said I understand I will do as you wish after saying that aresa started walking and left she was crying and tears were falling from her face after she retuned home she ordered Lena burn all of these dresses as they were doing that caran came and burst opens the door shouting aresa she Ted towards him caran why are you here he

asked were you crying your whole face is red I heard about what happened at the palace was my father involved in this as well after listening caran said so he was I will apologize in his stad I am truly sorry aresa said it's too late now I already said that I won't concern myself with what happens in politics anymore and that means I am also willing to turn away from your family which leads the imperialists carian asked then you're not going to see me anymore why do you always try to stand at a dead end

I'll help you so don't be so hard on yourself like this he added should I leave my family aresa gets shocked what he said if I leave my family I'm not obligated to follow their political stance Arista stopped him no caran I have no intention of getting you involved in this he agreed agreed all right let's talk about this next time you look exhausted you should rest 4 days later aresa received a letter listing the decisions made during the council meeting it detailed the coronation scheduled to celebrate the new emperor but it didn't say anything

about the wedding which was the cause of the heated dispute that day later her father said I heard about what happened you asked to break off the engagement she replied yes father he said I see so in the end that's what happened you did well she felt relieved and asked pardon her father said you can finally escape the duty that you hated so much now I wasn't happy whenever I had to push you even though you were so reluctant but now there's no need for you to be so desperate to avoid a future that you

don't want and you don't have to succeed the family either you don't need that as an excuse to turn down the crown of the empress anymore from now on you should live your life doing what you want to do after that ARA said no father I will become this family's Heir as she said that tears starts dropping from her face she thinks in her mind Pride dignity honor why am I hurting the people I treasure for something like that I hate myself for being so foolish then she said father about my coming of age ceremony

can we hold the celebration at the mansion in our domain instead of in the capital I want to clearly announce my position as the heir this time and I want to hold a different kind of banquet something that is fitting for an heir of a family of knights at the coronation of the Emperor as Ru puts the crown at his head and priest said May Vita's blessing be with you except this son of the great Empire May the blessing of Vita be with the son of this glorious Empire May the blessing of Vita be with

the son of the great Empire aresa was also in the audience beside her father she thought he hasn't looked at me even once today as she was busy thinking her father asked what are you thinking about she replied oh it's nothing she her gaze met June who was with Ru smirking as she had W looking at her aresa felt rage she said let's go father later aresa received a letter the contents were dear lady aresa here's what I found out about what you asked for last time she prefers black and her favorite flower is the

rose and most of all she prefers rose buds the possibility is more than half I await your next order Ana susheria Arista interpreted a black rose but would mean an heir of Duke Zena an heir of Duke Zena and count Das if this is true we now have a great advantage on our hands then she looked at the other document this must be the poison investigation report that I was authorized to see the method in which they obtain the poison is strangely clean the poison couldn't have been smuggled and there are no signs of them

getting rid of an accomplice what is going on unless the poison was transported to the temple where customs duties don't apply it would be impossible to leave no Trace at all wait what if the person who brought the poison is a priest could it be that the temple is involved in this too then she went to the emperor and applied for investigation at the temple seeing the appeal roof said it does sound plausible but that will require further investigation he added you know very well that the royal family can't interfere with the authority of the

temple that easily let's keep quiet about this and wait a bit more I'll notify you as soon as there is progress aresa complied yes your majesty he asked do you need something else she replied no it's nothing after leaving his office aresa thought he seems kind of irritated then she went to the temple where she met the high priest he told her sexus the sixth root who was born recently will be coming here she replied but I thought that person wasn't old enough isn't the six the child who isn't even a year old the priest

said as the roots of God it is our duty to continue traveling without settling in one place in order to spread God's will in the world but when a new one is born like now we make an exception and stay in one place to nurture our new companion then the priest looked at her and said you really look a lot like your mother well I saw the marianist when she was 18 so I suppose it's not odd for me to think of her as I look at you now I owe her a big debt from

back then that's why I asked to see you today I will bless you regularly while I stay in the Empire so do visit the temple every 2 weeks even if you're busy that is how I can pay back the debt I owe to the marianist while I stay here in the Empire aresa felt touched thank you your Holiness as she was leaving June called her from behind oh my if it isn't lady arestia Arista greeted her greetings lady Jun Jun said we can finally talk alone now I hear you'll have your Coming of Age ceremony

in your family's domain after you pretended to be all bold and daring you're running away because you're scared to hear people whispering about you and what was with your attitude last time I see you still haven't learned your place why do you continue to hover around him what a cheap method trying to buy his attention by pretending to refuse his offer you've fallen so low aresa spoke do not judge my intentions I have no interest in that position Jun replied yeah right you glared at me with such jealousy in your eyes you know aresa gets

surprised jealousy she wondered I was jealous Jun added if this is how you're going to be then it was a waste to come back just to win against you how boring Arista felt anger at her remark she asked you came back to win she shouted when have you never won and why in the world are you doing this anyway I said you should step back from the empress competition what more am I supposed to do you took everything from me and now you've even ruined the plan I've been working on after coming back in time

family love honor and even the title you took everything I had but you're still not satisfied for God's sake what's driving you to hate me this much Jun thinks for a moment then said oh I guess you're so Carefree since back then you only lived that far she turned and started walking aresa asked what are you talking about she replied it's fine you don't need to know don't try to taunt me again this is my final warning after some time aresa sent a message to house verita and house Rass Duke Rass said I read the

letter that you sent you requested that we lend you a sword she replied that is correct the Duke agreed all right a good pretext like this must be used well we will provide you with any information you seek make a sharp sword that will cut the black Row in one blow it would be good to start by charging the main houses with tax evasion and illegal Imports aresa said I will leave that to you she thought Lord Alexis's Health had improved but I hear he fell again after marrying Ilia and I heard that because of

this Duke verid to secretly sent people to find alandis in the worst case scenario if something were to happen to Lord Alexis allendis would would be the only direct son able to succeed house verita Allan I wonder where he could be then Duke Rass said I know you were very disappointed with our actions but if our Kint and I were thinking only of the faction's interests we would have pushed you to become the empress regardless of the reason I do hope you won't forget that we support you as well after listening to him she replied

I see she received a letter from duke arit I welcome your decision and will gladly lend you the sword you requested of of course I will lend a hand if you wish to make an excellent blade if you tell me what you want I will sharpen the blade and send it to you whenever you need I look forward to the creation of this new sword arant duras then she concluded all right both houses have agreed it's time to make my move she asked Lena have you heard anything about house Das she said H I don't

know the servants there personally but I have heard a thing or two from some others the count and the count are very close so the CEST personally oversees everything dealing with the count and they say that she's very kind to everyone so all the servants like the Countess a lot she's very religious and devoted to volunteer services and she also sends a lot of donations to the temple I hear she visits the commoner's district every week to volunteer arista's mind rised she volunteers at the commoner's district right now that's the only place where guards can

watch this smells fishy Lena then informed o and His Majesty has sent you a gift the note says it's for your coming of age I wanted to give this to you in person but I don't think I will be able to see you on that day thus I decided to send this beforehand congratulations on reaching adulthood aresa ress Calin sh castina aresa opened the boss and saw a music box she saw her figure this is this is me and that's the Royal Tiara seeing that her thoughts run wild she quickly shakes her head resolving no

don't think about it aresa it's just a simple gift that's all the location of the hunting competition that aresa planned to hold at the Monique estate for her coming of age was suddenly changed to the Royal hunting grounds by Royal order after knowing that aresa thought it was an order from the emperor so even father seems uncomfortable refusing it but it's a place that can only be used by direct Royal descendants this will make people suspect that our engagement is still ongoing suddenly Lord Mila came and said you don't look too well my lady it's

a joyful day to celebrate your adulthood she replied I'm just a bit tired he said I see you must have planned this Grand Banquet by yourself since there is no other lady of the house arestia wondered why does he keep talking to me in such a friendly manner we've been looking into the aristocrats at every corner but there was nothing regarding house milu if Duke farida Intel couldn't find anything that means there's really nothing to find it's hard to guess what he's thinking but house meua is a central member of the Aristocrat party how can

they be completely clean then an announcement was made his majesty Ruess caloden Shana castina the son of the Empire has arrived aresa went to him and asked your majesty what brings you out this far he replied I happened to remember that I haven't gone hunting in a while I stopped by on the way as it so happens Arista was surprised she thinks but he definitely said he wouldn't be able to attend then music started playing so she gets flustered it's already time to dance what should I do dancing on the day of adulthood means to

show oneself to the world again as an adult as such the partner during the dance is very important the star of the day may choose whomever they wish as their partner and the chosen must accept the dance no matter what right now it's as if my partner has already been chosen she then said your majesty may I ask you to be my first dance partner as an adult he replied smiling it would be an honor she wondered an honor she called your majesty then they started dancing as they danced R said I danced with you

at my Coming of Age ceremony 3 years ago she replied yes your majesty he began back then but then stopped he said no it's nothing after the dance aresa said I am honored to have had my first dance with you then roof quickly grabs her from her waist and pulled her close Arisa blushed your majesty he then released her oh sorry he told I had a good time later she went out to get fresh air she thought why couldn't I ask him what that music box meant if it means what I thought when I first

saw the Tiara if that's what he really intended then I'm not sure how I should behave in front of him but if it doesn't mean anything she rejected those thought you're out of your mind aresa why couldn't you ask anything what were you so afraid of isn't this the same as my past when I only yearned for him then as she was walking she heard people talking one said H looks like house Monique is meeting its end now their only air can have a child other asked then what will happen to their purage one replied

wouldn't it transfer over to her husband obviously why don't you try your chances they laughed haha Arista felt anger what did they just say how can they be so disrespectful suddenly a knife crossed near one of noblemen's faces caran came and said oops I missed I must be getting rusty after neglecting my training he said I was aiming for that tongue spouting nonsense they replied sir carian we were just carian then said with a serious tone I'm ashamed that we're part of the same faction I won't forgive you if you Ramble On like that again

they felt ashamed and left yes sir then carian gets close to aresa who was standing behind the tree and asked why did you hold yourself back even after hearing that she replied I was simply waiting for the right time carian complained why do you always set up a passive defense first why do you always drive yourself into the deepest Corner she called caran he continued I know you're scared but don't think that you don't have a place to go to I can help you rise up I'll hold your hand so you can go back when

I talked about leaving home I had already made up my mind to take a different political path than my father she felt conflicted she said carian you're one of the two people who are most precious to me I don't want you to make a sacrifice for me he argued I'm not sacrificing myself it's what I want aresa said let's not talk about this you never liked politics anyway I can't watch you sacrifice yourself just to help me caran asked am I someone that unreliable to you after saying that he left I'm going the day of

the hunting competition aresa hunted a deer Cajun remarked Squire aresa you're doing well she replied looks like I'm quite lucky today Cajun said I heard there was a small accident in the morning she replied oh it wasn't anything serious it's not something to worry about she remembered when I checked my rins and saddle they were cut partially and I'm sure I checked them the night before if I didn't check again in the morning I could have fallen off my horse she wondered who would do something like that suddenly they heard a roar she quickly turned

and saw a bear coming a bear it's been shot by an arrow it's angry seeing the situation Cajun commanded everyone scatter he said Squire aresa you need to leave this place now while she was returning she found a servant injured she asked what happened you should have told everyone right away when you got hurt he replied but it was so IC she said your wound seems to be deep we should go back for now others said but what if people say that you gave up your hunt she commanded go back and get treated for the

moment and you go find a servant who's on break and bring them back here he said but you'll be on your own if we do that she said I'll join the others who are close by so don't worry later she noticed looks like this horse got hurt while avoiding the bear what should I do there's nobody I can ask for help around here suddenly she saw Emperor rof coming on a horse she said greetings your majesty the emperor son of the Empire he asked why are you alone I was sure I saw you leave with

good nights she told there was a bit of an accident she then asked but how come you're here with just your guards your majesty he replied I wanted to get some fresh air so I told the others to go by themselves seems like your horse is hurt are you wounded anywhere she replied I'm all right hearing that he said said I see I'm glad you're safe he then extends his hand and said come here the base camp is quite far and I can't let you go there by yourself then they rode the horse together while

on the horse she looked at him I thought the only thing left between us was loyalty between a Lord and his vassel since yesterday I can't stop thinking about what has happened between us after a while the prince said by the way about the silver flowers she quickly asked cutting him of did the silver flowers bloom I thought they were opening up slightly last time did they really Bloom she then blushed realizing what had happened Ro smiled and said I noticed you were interested in the flowers but I didn't know you were this interested when

I looked at them a while ago the buds had opened a bit but they didn't Bloom yet I'll let you know when they bloom she replied I I'm honored your majesty then they stopped at a lake R said I didn't know there was a place like this in the Royal hunting grounds I barely remember anything since I was so busy and couldn't come here at all he then asked are you feeling better now aresa replied yes I'm all right it was a long time ago now then R spotted a leaf at her head and removed

it aresa again get flustered your majesty he said there was a leaf on you is something wrong she replied no it's nothing she quickly turned her face to hide her blushing what's wrong with me I've been behaving weirdly these past few days this isn't like me a few days later amidst the rumors of a new Knight's order the establishment of a third and fourth regiment was announced as such a large number of knights will be drafted aresa asked will Marquis muua and ANL be the commanders the Knight replied his majesty is indeed thinking of giving

them one she thought he probably agreed to a trade for the two regiments the late Emperor directed a massive Purge of power during his Reign that left three Knights orders instead of the original five and that led to several other problems in the end everyone has been feeling the need for a reorganization but it was difficult to begin the process due to political conflict it's no wonder people are excited since it's finally happening this is a golden opportunity for all the young Nobles looking at them she thought the selection will begin in a month I

should start training harder today the Knight added but don't you think it's odd as far as I know Lord Mila hasn't even been kned yet then how can he lead a whole regiment as a commander Arista asked but would he be involved with this anyway the Knight added since the head of a house is usually chosen as a commander I heard Marquis Mila has been very ill after he fell from a horse recently so it's likely that his son will succeed his title soon after hearing that arested recalled then will he take the test to

be drafted this time no matter how much we dig we can't find any flaws and he keeps approaching me in a friendly manner even though he's with house Zena his behavior is oddly different the more I investigate house milu the more suspicious I get something definitely bothers me but I can't quite put my finger on it later she went to Duke cruth he saw the document and said maros Mila the second in power after house Zena among the aristocrats this definitely smells fishy I'll investigate this in detail aresa said also I need information on all

the merchant business under house Cena The Duke asked do you plan to make them go bankrupt she replied for now I'm just thinking of taking away their soil to grow roses the Duke chuckled for that the information we have should be enough the administrative division will take care of that later aresa got the report one Merchant company under house Cena suffered a huge loss I wonder if Jun is wondering about why muslin isn't getting popular unless she's an idiot she should have realized that I've done something perhaps she's very angry aresa went to meet Baron

to discuss the baron said this is what we received from Viscount aanu someone we recruited from the aristocrats before the documents were about the princesses competing to be the Royal fiance it was already revealed that house Zena and the princess of Yeet were accomplices aresa said the problem is this Baron fill in it's the seal used by house Ras she said this is troubling she thinks in her mind this won't help even if we confiscate the secret documents of count laner the one behind the poisoning unless we can prove the seal is from house Zena

this might result in house Ras getting accused for no reason also lady Jun has been running a relief project for the poor recently with the cooperation of the temple house Zena has offered a huge sum to finance the project however the temple embezzled most of the funds and chose to sell most of the food they were given instead of giving it out for free as a result commoners who want a cheap meal are benefiting from instead of the poor seriously she should learn to properly manage a project if she's going to begin one but this

is surprising honestly I thought she didn't care about anything then aresa got an urgent note it says discovered a budding Rose NEC 5-4 time of blooming unknown ncsr the red roofed house in the fifth block of the Northeast commoner District after reading that aresa wished it would be perfect if we could find out the time that they got in contct a few days later she received news of Marquis Mila's passing Mila's domain is far from the capital and the funeral will be held there however it seems that Lord milu will hold his succession ceremony at

the mansion in the capital at the palace arestia noce Mila he seems very sad she wondered if he's so sad why is he staying in the capital instead of attending the funeral suddenly Jun came and said lady aresa we should talk for a moment Jun questioned what do you think you're doing lately aresa replied I'm not sure what you're talking about lady Jun she accused you knew that I was buying muslin and purposely interfered in my business and you even reported several Merchants working with our house to the administration Arista feain ignorance I have no

clue what you're talking about you were buying muslin and Report do you mean the merchants working with house Zena committed a crime Jun shouted don't pretend to be innocent Arista then asked are you delusional I'm the one who should be mad at you I was the one who had everything taken unfairly and I'm the one who drank poison not you Jun again shouted shut up what would you know don't talk down to me aresa said I hear you're running a relief project for the poor and you're cooperating with the temple June argued there are poor

people even in this Capital that is said to be the best city in the Empire though I guess a prestigious Noble like you wouldn't know no the poor who can't even afford to eat every day are given a free meal and you tried to cut all the funds going into that project all for your petty Revenge then Arista countered you sure know how to boast in spite of being such a poor administrator Jun shouted what aresa replied why are you getting mad at me when you're the one who failed to manage your own project even

if your funds were safe the temple is the only one benefiting from the project Jun asked what are you talking talking about aresa pointed I gave you a fork and now you want me to hand feed you if you're curious investigate it yourself after saying that she started walking while walking she thinks I don't need to explain anything to a child who's always burning in hatred whenever she sees me in fact I'm the one being generous for giving her so many hints as aresa was walking back she saw CEST de she then said aloud I

think I've been polite enough now we're done here sir League he replied I thought you came here for a reason though aresa said yes and I've accomplished half of it already it's time to take care of the rest then she followed Countess Das Countess went to meet Lord Zena aresa with sir League bangs opens the door Countess Das and Lord Zena gets alarmed he shouted who's there you how dare you come in here like that seeing him caught red-handed with Countess aresa smiled and said it's been a while Lord Zena he shouted don't call me

like that aresa asked then how should I call someone who doesn't have a peage title of his own he asked with scorn what do you want aresa said I do prefer moving quickly then again I'm sure you don't want the world to know that the air of ctisus is actually an illegitimate child of house Zena hearing that he shouted illegitimate child she's nothing of the sort don't judge her by your standards girl she replied who knows this may not be such a bad offer for you if you help me I'll help you so that you

can inherit the p title that is rightfully yours he asked how so aresa said I know that Duke Zena is the one who ordered for me to be poisoned we already have the evidence if we reveal the evidence not only will your party be at stake but his majesty will not forgive this quietly he countered father didn't do that and even so our house will not fall because of such an insignificant case at most my father will retire to resolve the issue he guarded up so why should I help you I will inherit my title

if I just wait aresa replied h i wonder about that she began lady Jun has been quite outstanding lately it's only been a few months since she was adopted but she already captured the hearts of prominent Aristocrats and I hear she's praised as a saintus by the temple now he furiously replied you dare suggest that lowborn girl will take my title aresa said it should be impossible of course but what if the world knows of what happened here today will the vassals of house Zena want you to en in herit the family he asked are

you threatening me she replied no I'm just laying out the truth for you if I were in that situation I would support A Gifted individual even if they weren't a direct descendant and what would be better than if that talented man were to marry Lady Jun he changed his stance what do you want that would make you go this far she replied it's nothing difficult all you have to do is give me that he gets shocked that do you mean after that one month later aresa received an unbelievable piece of news during the night's examination

during the council meeting the aristocrats suddenly petitioned that aresa be the empress not June aresa concluded looks like information about us investigating their case was leaked their goal is obvious then they're trying to break up the imperialists they'll yield the seed of the empress to me since I can have a child while pushing for Jun as queen and the mother of the next Air this will also lead to the Redemption of house Monique if I give up my position as the heir the title of house Monique will be redeemed unlike other houses our house can

only be inherited by a direct descendant according to the oath with the royal family later Jun asked aresa what did you do to make the aristocrats recommend you instead of me she replied that's what I'd like to know Jun asked while Furious what's with you you said yourself that you wanted to yield she shouted you still have feelings for him after all that you suffered he destroyed your family and house and made you have a miscarriage he's the man man who killed you yet you still like him are you out of your mind aresa replied

and you were an accomplice in all of that why are you telling me that now Jun said you really don't know how to judge people you only want to see the good side of those you like aren't you curious about the true nature of the man you love about what happened after you died she continued you mentioned this before didn't you that I wasn't satisfied even after taking everything you had love is a joke you think the love that he whispers to you now will last last forever Just 4 years he whispered how much he

loved me yet it took Just 4 years for him to turn his back on me I tried as best as I could but I was always compared to you funny isn't it he's done all those things to you yet he missed the woman he killed with his own hands aresa asked what are you talking about June told remembering the Past after you died he seemed relieved for a while of course he would be relieved you an aching nuisance and both the Dukes who pressured him were gone but after he killed you he seemed to miss

the support of your party and the competent woman you were he started looking for you more and more he was a selfish man who chased after the traces of a woman that didn't exist anymore he drove himself crazy searching for what comforted him in the end he used both you and me you submitted yourself to him your whole life and I was a tool to hurt you the one he hated the most aresa concluded I can guess the tragedy they met even without hearing the rest he never received received love so he didn't know how

to love and June received love but didn't know how to give it back he never looked at me once when I yearned for him so much yet he wanted me after everything was over she spoke I already knew that he was a selfish man I'm not trying to defend him she explained but June back then I couldn't see anything not even my father that man was the only one who was precious to me I wasn't scared or afraid when he took me I was simply sad because he didn't do it out of love even when

I had a miscarriage and became infertile I was sad because he wouldn't be interested in me again I never thought my father's love mattered but I realized it at the last moment and I never truly hated him until that moment Jun replied you're crazy aresa added but I realized how precious everyone around me was when I turned back time June blows out with frustration if so isn't that more reason not to love him again you should be getting revenge on him for the people you love Arista replied sternly why should I why should I throw

myself into revenge and risk everyone's lives for something that hasn't happened he hasn't done anything wrong here yet you're saying that I should question him for his sins that haven't happened because he might commit them in the future Jun said it makes no difference he's the same man aresa countered no he's not I'm not who I was in the past and he isn't either Jun then said you're just making up excuses about him being different because you want to love him again a person's nature doesn't change that easily maybe he's good to you now but

do you think he'll be the same when he has a change of heart she asked how can you be sure that he won't reveal his true nature later how can you assure yourself that what happened in the past won't happen again aresa replied because I've changed if one's true nature doesn't change like you said then I should be the same as I was in the past but I'm different now Jun said don't act like you've suddenly learned the truth about everything you argue that the past is different from the present but you don't actually believe

it yourself that's why you reject him so desperately it's time you got away from him don't act so high and mighty when you fear that the past will repeat itself saying that June left she left aresa puzzled I thought that the past was different from the present so why did I try to avoid him so desperately I thought that stopping the past from repeating itself was the way to find my destiny but is that really true maybe I've been too obsessed with thinking that I still have to change even more a while later aresa finally

received the long awaited news that she had passed the test to become an official Knight she worked so hard for this qualification for the past 6 years and she finally earned it now September 1st year 964 of the Empire official nighting ceremony aresa went in front of the emperor to take the oath she knelt and said I pledged my loyalty to the lion Vita gave me life and I offer this life to my Lord I serve the blood flowing in this body and its flesh all to you so you may employ it as you wish

glory to the Empire and honor to you then she looked up and said your majesty I aresa Pioneer La Monique the future 54th head of house Monique hereby wish to carry out the long-promised oath with the royal family that is my duty ruus gets shocked wait you aresa continued the blood that flows in my body and the heart that beats inside this flesh rues trembled and said stop it I won't hear it a while ago aresa resolved after I was given my name from the prophecy I finally found this solution after days of worrying and

thinking the Blood Oath of house Monique with this oath I am unable to revolt against the royal family my right as an heir won't be a problem anymore that's why I train so hard to earn this qualification for this oath she continued I offer my life and my heart to you forever ress again denied I won't hear it Arista thinks in her mind I closed the door to my heart yet he was knocking on it unknowingly I didn't want to know I didn't want to realize what this feeling was what the emotions I felt and

the heart that kept beating what they all meant I made up my mind not to give anyone my heart again it's time I took hold of my trembling heart this is the best for him and for myself after this oath I no longer have to be toyed with by the Aristocrat schemes and I don't need to suffer while waiting for an inevitable dreary future she spoke my Lee rivus asked then tell me what is it that you so desire she replied my wish is to be written down in history as the 54th head of house

Monique and only as the head of house Monique ruas felt lost then regained his sense if I give up on you I can earn the absolute loyalty of house Monique for two generations it's a profitable trade indeed a wise Emperor would accept such an oath don't you think aresa replied I believe so your majesty rivis said but I will not do so the Blood Oath can only take effect when both parties agree he told I will not accept your vow I will refuse such an oath on my name as the murmuring started in the audience

ruus quickly left aresa went after him trying to stop him as the chaos erupt both Duke Rass and Marquis tried to calm them down aresa went after him calling your majesty as she was walking in the hallway suddenly ruus came and grabbed her hand he confronted her she said your majesty please reconsider this and accept my he began aresa I don't care about what others will think and no matter how hard I try I can't hide it that's how much I'm in love with you saying that he kissed her on her lips as he squeezed

her hand aresa pushed him away Ruess felt hurt from her action arestia gasped thinking this isn't what I had intended rues then said I'm sorry I promised that I wouldn't do anything you didn't want looks like I lost control for a moment but what I just said is true I want you to be with me as my beloved partner not as a loyal subject can't you be by my side can't we be together with you as my one and only partner instead of you becoming the marianist you always make me anxious when I take one

step back you take two steps to run away from me I keep approaching you and doing foolish things like this in fear that I might lose you I know this isn't the right time and I know you want to avoid me aresa stand there unable to answer he continued I won't ask you to come closer but at least don't run away aresa said it's not like you to turn down an oath of everlasting loyalty for a fleeting yearning Rivas said somehow you seem very sure that I will have a change of heart if my longing

wasn't serious I would have accepted the suggestions made by my father or the aristocrats if I had accepted lady June as my Empress I could have easily taken you as my queen consort he asked why did you think I was willing to take all the criticism and hardship until now I did all of that in hopes of earning your heart sudden suddenly they heard the sound of someone coming the prince quickly hides aresa behind the door hide over here for a moment it was marus Kiran he asked what is it Maris Kiran Arista relied hiding

behind the door father Marquis said I apologize for what happened today it wasn't my intention but I ended up inconveniencing a lot of people but you stopped my daughter from making a rash choice so I am grateful for that Rivas said well I know you have other Methods at your disposal I'm sure you could have stopped stopped her from swearing the oath as well hearing that aresa was shocked other methods then there is another way to escape this situation without using the oath of blood ress continued you always think of her happiness first I see

you have made up your mind to use that method after seeing that your daughter was even determined enough to use the oath Marquis agreed yes your majesty ruas said I know it won't be easy after what happened today on top of the canceled agenda from before but I will do everything I can to protect protect her so I beg you give me a bit more time until I can resolve this matter Marquis replied I will follow my daughter's wishes Rivas said that is assuring enough for me thank you later at night aresa heard her father

and Duke Ras and Ruth talking to each other Duke Ruth complained ha it would have been better if alenis had been chosen to be the heir in the first place I forced a sick child to take responsibility and overwork himself and I don't even know if my other son is still alive this this is all my fault really Duke Rass asked how can that be your fault don't blame yourself Ruth nobody knows what will happen in the future and you should stop drinking now I've never seen you get this drunk before he added that goes

for you too Kiran Marquis replied leave us be I want to get drunk today the Duke said you knew this was bound to happen the moment you started teaching her how to fight Marquis then told remembering the past I felt like I gained the whole world when she was born but was that really a blessing for Tia if she wasn't my daughter she wouldn't have thrown herself into an oath of loyalty that would consume her whole life when she's just barely an adult aresa was listening to their grumbling she thinks in her mind I'm sorry

Father you told me to be happy but I don't know how I can become happy I thought this was for the best but I'm getting even more confused then she went to her room and saw letter she wondered what these letters are there are seven of them she opened a letter and realized this handwriting he wrote letters to me she read the letter it's been 2 months since you fell ill I just thought of you while I was sitting by father's side he hasn't shown any signs of recovery you kept apologizing even as you collapsed

and I can't stop thinking of how pale you looked when you visited before while reading aresa thinks did he write this when I was unconscious from the poison the letter continued hope seems to be growing thin as time goes by and it hurts my heart I'm sorry you wouldn't have gone through this if I wasn't the Crown Prince perhaps you wouldn't refuse me so adamantly if I wasn't I try to forget about you all day long yet I can't seem to do so I suppose I can keep you close to me in some way because

I am the Crown Prince but do you know my heart burns in pain whenever I hear that you grow weaker day by day I've sent people to find the high priests so please endure this until they find them I'll do all I can to protect you after this so I beg you please endure this ress kamaludin Shana castina aresa wondered did he really write this letter she remembered his words somehow you seem very sure that I will have a change of heart her mind raised can I trust him he's showing this much sincerity she rejected

those thought no even so I must not I already made up my mind that I won't get heartbroken from wanting someone again I have to stay strong a few days later the high priest visited the Mansion to bless aresa one last time before leaving he said he must take care of something regarding the fourth high priest hearing that aresa prayed I hope nothing happens but I wonder why I feel so uneasy about this later in the emperor's office Rus asked what are the tasks for today while handing out the documents aresa said you must look

over the reorganization of personnel that have been focused on the three brigades in the past he replied all right let me look at the papers you brought first tell me a simple summary while I read them she complied yes your majesty aresa thinks in her mind there's a lot of administrative work because of the new brigade that will be established I was chosen to Aid his majesty while he looks over all the papers as I scored the highest among all the applicants on the most recent examination as such I work at the knight's Brigade in

the morning and then ate his majesty at the central Palace in the afternoon while looking at him Arista Niti he looks a bit pale but he's still the same as ever she thought I'm relieved but I wonder why I feel a bit disappointed I guess this doesn't mean anything to him suddenly Heron came and informed your majesty lady Jun is requesting an audience Ruess forgot lady Jun oh so that was today seeing that aresa said then I'll excuse myself rivus grabs her hand and said just stay here she asked pardon after that Jun came with

a maid and said greetings your majesty it is I Jun grasped aena I happen to find some of the best rose hip from Sono Kingdom I brought it today to offer it to you and I brought this too so you can enjoy it with the tea I may not be the best but I made it myself while thinking of you Rives replied thank you lady Jun ARA was surprised she made it herself rivis ordered store this well since it's a gift from Lady Jun Heron complied yes your majesty then rivus asked is there anything more

you'd like to say if not let's end the audience here I would like to chat for a bit but unfortunately I have too much work to take care of June was taken aback at his response she replied yes your majesty I shall take my leave now as she turned to leave she glared at aresa after she left ruus said let's continue where we left off then aresa replied yes your majesty then aresa briefed and this is the last of them Ruess was looking tired noticing that aresa said you seem exhausted so I'll go over this

quickly aresa gets worried she tried to ask again but before she asked rues dropped his on the table aresa called your majesty she worriedly looked around for help thinking we have to get the high priest here now now that I think about it he said he was going to leave the Empire soon what if he already left no stay calm maresa she rushed for help sir Heron find the high priest and bring him here right away however make sure not to disclose anything that just happened he complied understood soon the high priest came and blessed

rivus with divine power as he woke up aresa asked eagerly your majesty are you all right now hi priest said you've been pushing yourself because of the funeral and coronation your symptoms are signs of extreme dehydration and overwork you must rest from time to time even if you're busy he replied all right he then looked towards aresa and asked what are you crying for then the high priest asked your majesty have you felt anything odd lately for example have you felt a sudden Rush of rage and irritation or been particularly prone to mood swings Rivas

said why do you ask he told all of these are symptoms resulting from one particular poison it's the poison that lady Arista suffered from as well thank goodness I noticed before I left this poison doesn't have any dangerous effects on men however it does cause extreme mood swings after prolonged ingestion leading to difficulty carrying out daily tasks he concluded the ones behind this probably wanted to harm your reputation early in your rain rivus instructed for now could you keep this to yourself until further notice high priest complained lied of course aresa was shocked he was

poisoned how could this have happened who would dare try to poison the emperor wait rage she recalled her past thinking that can't be I'm jumping to conclusions then Rivas said my head is throbbing may I ask you for a favor aresa replied as you wish he said everyone already knows that house Monique is leading the investigation regarding your poisoning use that as a cover to investigate within the palace she complied yes I will she then thinks in her mind there used to be a servant in charge of his wine right I en velot he's the

lover of the maid that poisoned me and the one who is suspected to be the link to the aristocrats if he is the same person I remember he could be the one who poisoned the emperor I'll have to investigate those inside the palace myself Rivas then said thank you as always aresa she replied not at all your majesty I'm simply doing what I must later at night aresa was lying in her bed thinking I was scared so scared that I even called upon the name of God that I had tried to erase from my mind

why did I do that what was I so afraid of that made me shake like that she recalled at that moment I wasn't thinking about how this country would fall into chaos or any of the consequences I just thought that I might never see him again I shouldn't do this she Rises up from her bed and opens the music box that ress gift to her she thinks I know I shouldn't but I'm getting scared scared that I might lose him that he might leave my side forever I get the feeling that I won't be able

to sleep well tonight the next D suddenly Ruess started coughing she saw him coughing blood she went to his side holding him ruus then fell to the ground and blood was flowing from his mouth he said aresa and closed his eyes aresa shouted no this can't be happening open your eyes your majesty tears started falling from her face she prayed dear God if you have any ounce of pity for me please please save him I declared that I wouldn't believe in you anymore but I will do anything if you will help him I will accept

my fate even if you wish to take away my second life so please she gasped and opened her eyes she realized that it was a dream while walking in the hallway she thought even if the high priest cured him I shouldn't have let my guard down so soon as long as I don't know who the true culprit is or how many are behind this what happened yesterday could happen again at any moment there's no time to waste I have to investigate this as quickly and covertly as possible she went to ruus and asked your majesty

will you really not announce what happened yesterday he replied something might happen again and you could be harmed in the process don't worry I'll pay particular attention to my surroundings now I must take certain risks in order to solve this case quickly aresa retorted but your majesty but God interrupted by Heron he informed your majesty a messenger from house verita is requesting an audience regarding an urgent matter the messenger told Lord Alexis de verita passed away and returned to Vita's Grace this morning I have come to deliver this urgent news later at the funeral Duke

Rus said TP the emperor our family is greatly honored that you personally came to visit despite this weather your majesty Rivas said he was an amazing person it's a great loss for the Empire now that he is gone a Pity indeed Duke Ruth replied thank you for your words your majesty arestia went to Ilia and said you don't don't look well Ilia you should return to your room and rest for a bit Ilia suddenly collapsed later in her room aresa was beside her bed she said Your Grace I don't know what I could say that

would be enough to express my condolences the Duke replied thank you for coming here she bowed not at all it's only right that I come then the Duke said actually alenis came by a few days ago he said he must have heard that Alex was seriously ill he suddenly arrived a few days ago pass the qualifications as an air and watched over his brother's last moments she asked what about now the Duke said he told me to work harder until he comes back later such an undutiful child aresa asked you mean he left again Duke

said yes I'm telling you this since I know you've been searching for his whereabouts he seems to be fine so don't worry too much Allan is all right aresa thinks in her mind thank goodness I'm so relieved I haven't heard anything about you after we parted like that and I worried that perhaps something bad had happened to you I did believe you would come back but I know I hurt you a lot and sometimes I thought that it might have pushed you to take a different path you said you would come back I'll see you

again someday right later in the carriage Ruess said I don't think I've ever grieved over a family member's death like they have I wasn't attached to the late empress and I couldn't even pretend to know about my birth mother's death as for my father hearing that arestia realized I thought his feelings of resentment had been resolved after our last talk but it looks like there's still painful memories for him later at night aresa was analyzing the documents Ian vot the one who poured his Majesty's wine would have had plenty of chances to poison his drinks

without getting caught by the silverware it would have been easy to obtain poison through the same maid but these are all speculations there's not enough evidence to accuse him of the crime Ian velot is currently a servant working at the main Palace he manages the emperor's wine he's always is neat and diligent and has a good reputation among his peers his family members include a deceased wife and a daughter who moved out a neat and diligent man secretly seeing a maid he's on good terms with the house of Viscount velot one of the imperialists yet

he had that kind of relationship with a maid working for the aristocrats that's too suspicious the maid was found contacting count Lanier on several occasions but Ian velot has nothing that ties him to them it's difficult enough to find out if he has any connection to the aristocrats I need something more definitive at another document this record shows that all the food tasters were fired after showing violent behavior and having trouble with their Associates but these are all symptoms of that poison if they all showed the same symptoms that will prove that the emperor's food

was poisoned then aresa visited the temple the high priest greeted welcome lady Pioneer I was just wondering when you would visit aresa said I apologize I read your letter a bit late he replied it's all right I was busy rescheduling my appointments anyway he was carrying a baby in the basket aresa realized so that child is the sixth high priest she asked what about your plans to leave he told I sent a letter to corus with instructions to find me here since I don't think I can go anywhere for a while another high priest will

visit the Empire though it's only temporary half of all the high priests will be staying in the Empire then aresa said I have something I'd like to discuss with you your Holiness she began actually I found something odd while investigating the acquisition of the poison it wouldn't be possible to obtain the poison to regular means but I couldn't find any evidence of it being smuggled either she questioned then how did the poison cross the border it's impossible to create the poison within the Empire high priest gets curious you want to suggest that it went through

the temple she replied who knows what do you think high priest said my my you two are so alike someone said the same thing a while ago and I was quite troubled back then Arista wondered who is he talking about he continued if you suspect the temple why are you telling me that I may be a Wanderer but I am also a priest after all Arista explained as you know this matter involves his majesty if this continues the royal family will have no choice but to interfere with the Temple's jurisdiction she asked don't tell me

you plan to do nothing and watch as it happens hearing that height priest said hm are you suggesting ing a deal and what is it that you require she told I would like the divine power and testimony of the high priest who will be visiting soon high priest asked and what will you do if ior corus turned down your offer well she replied I wonder what the people will think when they find out that the branches tried to harm the Sun the envoy of God on this Earth ha then the high priest replied I have

nothing to say to that then but you must do something in return he asked will you track down the ones involved in this matter for me aresa conditioned I will accept if you can find the poison and antidote within a month high priest took a sigh and said really you don't cease to trouble me all right I agree seems like corus visit turned into good news for you lady Pioneer corus is troubling too I can't carry out my duties properly since I have to take care of sexus who is still a baby yet corus wants

to make a wish now Of All Times such a troubling one indeed arestia wondered a wish priest gets surprised oh dear he said I was planning to tell you eventually so I might as well tell you now High priests have one secret they can make a single wish once in their lifetime the reason is that the cost of their wish is their divine power in other words they can make one wish in return for giving up their divine power which is almost the same as their whole being I suppose it's similar to the oath of

house Monique aresa thinks in her mind what does that mean later during the meeting with Baron aresa ask the marriage of Ian vot's daughter seems suspicious do you mean they're imprisoning her using marriage as a disguise he replied that seems to be the case since this was very risky they must have used a hostage as a means of security aresa really then Ian velot was being used because his daughter is a hostage if the information from the Viscount is true it's too dangerous to attempt to rescue Ian vot's daughter right now she's an important witness

and hostage if she disappears the culprit will realize that there scheme has been revealed he informed and the young Lord Zena sent a secret message the young Lord Zena wants three things make sure the current Duke of Zena steps down giving up all his rights and Authority including his title help him to succeed the Duke's purage title and guarantee at least 70% of house Zena's current fortune and status to remain aresa thought but now that his majesty has been poisoned house Zena is a likely suspect I can't agree to any deal with the young young

Lord without discretion I need to test if he was involved in this scheme she said tell him that there is only one thing that I want right now he complied As You Wish later aresa met the high priest again who came with corus he said let me introduce you to him lady Pioneer this is corus God's fourth root corus said May the blessing of Life be with you it is an honor to meet the one of the prophecy are you surprised that my hair isn't white even though I'm a priest high priest told he died

D his hair because white makes him look old he says corus then said santus told me about you you need my Divinity and testimony I have a condition he abruptly said I am different from cuntis there is only one thing I wish for and that is money aresa was shocked money he replied yes it has such magnificent value does faith keep food on the table loyalty honor and dignity what use do they have money is the most important thing in this world people can eat good food and wear warm clothes because of money and they

can sleep comfortably at night because of money sukus shuts his mouth and said I apologize that you had to see this disgrace actually corus has been supporting orphans for a long time but after the recent National conflict there have been more orphans from the war and he's been having financial problems aresa replied oh I see that won't be difficult then you will get the funds you need right away corus brightened up great there's nothing more more that I wish for sukun said also I haven't obtained the items you requested last time yet but my people

are tracking down someone who can prepare them and it should be ready soon then aresa handed out the documents and said I see and here is the first investigation report regarding what you asked after receiving that priest said thank you this would be of great help then aresa saw Jun also in the temple she said inwardly in the end who will stand as the final Victor isn't that June she w wondered Jun had business in the temple too then arestia noticed huh these roses I thought they were wilting just a while ago was I mistaken

later in the emperor's office while showing the documents rivus said would you take a look at this it's a report by the chancellor regarding count Lanier the one who appointed house Monique for the joint investigation I thought it would be best for you to review it in case the information is needed again aresa replied yes your majesty report contains while investigating the poisoning of Lady aresa an Insider gave in and named Marquis Mila as the culprit afterward Maris Mila was thoroughly investigated however there was no clear evidence that tied him to the crime the following

are suspected to be involved in the crime count Hamill count laner count lling count Holton Arista emphas on count laner and now Marquis milu she thinks in her mind Duke Zena how much of your tale are you planning to cut off the investigators working with the Chancellor were investigating Duke Zena based on conjectures but they must have been flustered when Marquis Milo was called since nobody expected him to be involved but they couldn't find anything on the Marquis either so the investigators must have been at a loss Marquis Mila couldn't decisively be called the culprit

based on one witness's confession but it's not like there was any evidence to Point Duke Zena as the culprit either so the investigation reached a dead end but things are different now the culprit tried to poison his majesty to suddenly the servant informed your majesty prin deas is requesting an audience seeing that rivus said to aresa would you give us a moment she replied yes your majesty while walking away aresa realized she left confidential papers behind she turned and walked back after going inside she saw prinia holding her baby she thinks in her mind I

heard prinia gave birth to a child a while ago she suddenly felt a throbbing pain in her chest she wondered why does my chest feel so painful why do I feel so bitter looking at them she realized I see I might never bear a child and that means I can't make him smile warmly like that when I found out I was carrying his child in the past I desperately wished that he would have a change of heart and come back for my child I only thought of the baby as a means of gaining his love

even when I lost the child I was sad only because I no longer had a chance to make him come back to me if that child had been born safely and if I'd had a chance to hold that baby in my arms would I have been different would I have smiled happily just like prina the baby didn't even have a nickname for months the baby was gone Without a Trace yet nobody shed a tear of grief oh right I was such a cruel woman I coldly let my child go like that on top of that

I felt humiliated instead of saddened when I became infertile again if my body wasn't like this and if I could accept his feelings what would things be like ress noticed her and saw saw her crying he shouted aresa she said your majesty I'm so sorry for showing such disgrace he said nobody can hear anything like this so don't hold back just let it all out then she cried while thinking how nice it would have been if this had happened back then then I wouldn't suffer from the glimpses of the past that come back from time

to time and I wouldn't have to reject him and hurt him then I would love him without worry and shower the child that I lost with endless love everyone could have been happy said aresa I don't care even if you can't bear a child I'm fine even without a child as long as I can be with you so hearing that aresa backed away I beg your pardon your majesty I should take my leave now rues called her from behind but she didn't stop while walking back she thinks can I just take it can I just

take his hand and pretend that I don't know anything can I just close my eyes and cover my ears and drown myself in the warm illusion then rivus approached arist and gives her his robe he said would you mind joining me for a bit then they went near a lake after seeing the beautiful scenery aresa asked what is This Place Your Majesty he shushed her someone might hear us he then asked well do you like it she replied the view is so beautiful rivus said when we're inside the palace you're constantly reminded that I am

the emperor I wanted to escape that role for once I wanted you to see me for who I am without thinking about the restrictions that bind us she said your majesty then rivus kissed her on her lips and they share a passionate kiss she said inwardly this is all because of the view I'm drunk off of the magic of the blue Moonlight that's all so I'll be honest just for today later while on bed aresa thought I don't even know how I got back here she remembered ru's word aresa I don't want you to assume

the worst only to fall into despair the high priest and the Royal doctors have said several times not to lose hope if you're turning away from me because you think you can't bear children in the future then I don't mind even if you can have children if you're worried about the next Air there's no need to I don't mind passing the title to a child who is not of my own blood and please do not think that I'm saying this out of spontaneous feelings I am serious about this if that is your reason for refusing

me then please I beg that you reconsider your decision she thinks in her mind goodness the emperor is willing to give up on having an heir of his own blood I know that it's unlikely to come true but honestly I'm happy that he cares for me enough to say something that dangerous but I can't the more I'm swayed the more this will hurt the both of us when I see him next time I'll tell him that I can't accept him I'll tell him that it's not possible but can I be happy about it just for

tonight can I be happy that he loves me I'll go back to my usual self once these tears dry up later aresa received a letter the rose bud wishes to meet papers regarding amaran have been obtained its existence has been confirmed the coat of arms of an associate of Pina has been found awaiting further instructions there is word of GRA moving their dwelling awaiting further instructions after reading the letter aresa said aloud so we finally found the secret papers we were looking for now that it is confirmed all that is left is to find its

connection to house Cena it will be difficult to rescue her right away it's obvious that they will know who we are the moment we take her everything must be planned and ready before we proceed she prepared and left she went to meet Lord Zena who tried to jump her aresa countered and said you must have forgotten that I am a knight this action lacks discretion I must say Lord Zena growed in pain ug you brat she said isn't it about time you stop with the needless threats and seriously consider negotiating with us or are you

really planning to turn away from us he said the location that is all I can tell you aresa said location that doesn't seem like enough but I'm listening he asked you want the shield The Sword and the seal with the rose correct she replied correct Arista thinks in her mind if we can get those in our hands we can prove that Duke Zena is the true culprit with the papers we obtained a while ago regarding count Lanier and the papers from Viscount aanu we only have speculations at the moment but once we have everything we

can pin down Duke Zena for poisoning His Majesty of course accusing him of treason won't be be easy since this is beyond just harming another Noble but it's not impossible if we had the high priest's testimony along with the testimonies of Ian velot and the others working in the palace Lord Zena said I've searched through every corner of the Mansion but I didn't find anything if that seal really exists in the main house there's only one place it could be the secret safe where only the head of the house is allowed to enter aresa asked

and where is the safe located he asked will you accept my conditions if I tell you the location she replied it's not exactly Fair on our part but fine I agree she said all right the safe is in the study the second bookshelf from the left pull the purple book and the safe will be there I will warn you though don't think you can access it that easily just because you know its location you'll pay a hefty price if you underestimate the main house aresa replied we'll see about that and then she left she thinks

in her mind we must hurry there's not much time left while while our plan was being carefully constructed the foundation Day celebration had come again it was unusual to have half of all six of the high priests gathered in one place so this year's celebration was to be held in collaboration with the temple however Duchess erni Aras who usually led the planning wasn't well and her daughter-in-law princess Rua was still recovering after giving birth and so I was expected to lead the celebration this is the first official celebration to be held after the emperor coronation

if I take the lead people will assume that I will be chosen as the future Empress but if I refuse this role Duke Zena might use this to his advantage and once I saw how disappointed his majesty was I couldn't help but accept the role the aristocrats recommended June so it was decided that we would be co-hosts of the event this is a celebration in partnership with the temple when do you plan to take care of this matter your majesty sanus said to Rivas We are continuing to purify you but it's dangerous to expose yourself

to the poison for a long time rivus replied please wait a bit more this must wait until after Foundation day sakuna said they've injected more poison than before you must take care rues replied that means they're starting to suspect something Arista reported we've been investigating the route of the poison for a while as such we found out that the Royal food taster also have symptoms of poisoning corus concluded so our role is to confirm their poison at an official and public place aresa said yes no testimony is more reliable than a testimony sworn by divine

power then we will rescue Ian vot's daughter as soon as the celebration is over and put the plan into action suddenly aresa realized something doesn't feel right everything is going according to our plan but the deeper I dig the more I feel the presence of an unknown Shadow rivis then said aresa you must be busy with the upcoming Foundation day preparation you don't need to continue coming here from now on she replied yes I see she thought it was so uncomfortable to see him just a moment ago but now I'm sad that he's telling me

that I don't need to come anymore ruus added however visit me once a week in person to report on the progress of the investigation she asked pardon he said oh it's not because I don't trust you but I thought I should know since the temple is involved now she replied oh I see I will do so your majesty then he asked won't you come walk with me for a bit they went to the big tree in the Royal Garden they saw flowers there rivis said the more I look at them the more I think that

the flowers are like you they seem frail as if they will crumble soon yet they withstand hardships diligently and they stubbornly closed their buds without letting us Peak when those buds Bloom into flowers I wonder if you'll open up to me too Arista thought since when did we become like this with my dying breath I repeatedly promised myself not to fall in love again so why am I opening up my heart to him I know we are not meant to be I know that pain is the only thing that will remain in the end even

so I am later aresa went to carian and asked carian why are you sparring all of a sudden and you're fighting multiple opponents he replied oh I was just feeling a bit pent up that's all Arista asked do you want to fight me too I also came out here because I felt ansy carian asked what's with you is something not working working out as plan don't think so much you're just a kid he messed up her hair and said it doesn't suit you you know you're better off being a bit slow and dull Arista blushed

what he added so don't change kid then after a moment he said I know you're busy but haven't you been neglecting me a bit too much lately you don't even come to greet me and you stay in the office all day you don't send any letters either now you don't even show yourself at the Brigade at least say hello even if you're busy all right even I can get hurt if you keep that up aresa replied all right I'm really sorry about that caran teased you are then clear up your schedule for about 2 days

after Foundation day she said all right I will caran replied good then it's a plan see you later good luck with your work a while later aresa met with the high priest she tells in her mind after confirming our conditions once more I handed over the information about the illegal activity of the highest Priests of the temple judging by the high priest's expression at the time trouble will soon emerge when the higher priests become desperate to save their own skins they won't be able to interfere with the matters of the Imperial Court in turn Duke

Zena and The Aristocrats won't have any more influence without the Temple's support later in the meeting Council Heron announced the court budget for the foundation Day celebration will proceed as such now we shall move on to the next item on the agenda Arista said inwardly in the end my budget was accepted jun's suggestion was good too but it lacks the formalities of nobles looking at Jun she thinks she looks pitiful count asked and what about his Majesty's partner for the celebration this year will lady June and Lady aresa E have their turns as before one

of the imperialists said nonsense of course lady aresa will be his Majesty's partner for all four days others said both parties agreed to recommend lady aresa did we not moreover their engagement hasn't been canceled in the official records yet do not forget that lady arestia is still officially his Majesty's fiance aresa gets shocked what that was a long time ago her mind raised I've told myself over and over not to be bound by him again I felt relieved several times at the fact that at least our engagement has been broken and now I find out

that we are still officially engaged it was all a lie when he said he would respect my wishes but this can't be she felt conflict Ed did I just feel happy even amidst the anger and despair brought on by the fact that my long- awaited freedom was discarded I feel so proud when I think that he loves me enough to go this far such contradicting feelings and horrifying thoughts after the meeting she met Rives he said I'm sorry but I wasn't trying to deceive you I was going to set you free I worried that you

would be hurt even more if I forced you to be with me I tried so hard to give up every day but when I actually tried to write it down in the official records I just couldn't do it it felt like that would cut all ties between us so I kept postponing it arestia said you know very well that I am a woman with no right to Stand By Your Side Rivas asked is there really not even a slight chance for me or are you refusing me because of what surrounds us she asked what difference

would it make he replied because I want to stand in front of you as a man not as an emperor he added answer me aresa forget about all the political States our status and everything else what kind of man am I to you she looked at him sorrowfully and said you are someone who must walk toward the future in front of you and not backward to the Past I'm just a remnant of the past so please let go of me after hearing that rivus said you are too cruel you say you don't want me yet

when I look in your eyes I can see that it's not the whole truth and when I approach you wanting to know what that look in your eyes means you push me away again I asked you several times to give me a reason yet you never answer me I thought you had some feelings for me but was that all my own delusion or is the truth that you hide so significant that you have to hold back your own feelings suddenly a thought crossed her mind is it really all right to tell him about what happened

before I went back in time will he believe me if I tell him everything even alenis didn't believe me despite how much he cared about me Rives continued is it not enough even if I promise to protect you from all things that will harm you hearing that aresa think he's already suffering so much must I make him suffer even more she then said forgive me Your Majesty this is all I can say he asked can you sit back and watch when I accept someone else to stand by my side will you watch me call someone

else the empress and live the rest of my life with her aresa replied with a heavy heart they say all things Fade with time your majesty Ras said so you've made your decision all right I will do as you wish I apologize for forcing you to stay for so long against your wishes rest assured I will never bother you again with this matter after saying that ruus left later the play was going on though the time had come the moon did not rise and so Darkness cloaked the world the Royal play that is performed every

year on Foundation day originally Arista appeared as the noble fiance and child of Prophecy in the play however the aristocrats opposed it this year and so the play was modified to have June as the child of Prophecy the performer said oh ruler of this glorious Empire the one and only son I wish to offer a small token of Honor for the noble Moon the only partner of the sun I humbly request that you accept my gift the performer offered the Tiara towards the emperor aresa wondered is he asking him to choose Right Here and Now

Rivas stands up and said I accept the performer asked then to whom may I offer this he said give it to me because when the moon fully Rises next to the sun I shall bestow the crown myself the performer replied I am honored your majesty May there be glorious honor upon the great emperor and his Noble moon to be audience started cheering Glory To His Majesty woo glory to the Empire then June began praise the blessing of Vita the father of all life I am Jun grasp Deena the child of the prophecy who is blessed

by God now I send our father's love to all that stand here aresa recalled can it be I remember remember when I visited the temple a while ago I noticed that the roses that were wilting in the morning were all blooming in the evening so Jun was the one who did that at her performance the crowd started cheering a saint she is a saint Glory To His Majesty glory to the Saint May there be glory to the Empire Aris thinks in her mind she got me she won without a doubt now Jun is engraved as

the saint in the minds of the people of the Empire not only is she the child of the prophecy but now she is supported by the people will the imperialists be able to counter this she went back thinking why am I feeling like this huh I'm the one who abandoned that position because I didn't want it I'm the one who confidently said that everything Fades with time suddenly someone bumped into her while running and didn't stop there looking at him aresa thought the third Prince of Lisa how can he be so rude after that as

the curtains flutter she saw beatric lying on the ground stabbed she called while in shock beatric suddenly aaine saw this and screamed Kaa ask someone help aresa instructed be quiet don't cause a scene bring the Royal Physician right away also call Siran fan of the second Brigade The Royal Chancellor and the emperor the maid complied yes yes aresa asked beatric can you hear me she spoke while trembling my baby my baby aresa said stay with me beatric then ruas came with June and asked what is going on he said lady Jun we are in dire

need of your divine power she replied oh of course your majesty she tried to perform the miracle and it didn't worked seeing that aresa wondered what's wrong she performed perfectly just a while ago is something not working I did hear that jun's divine power was unstable is there a limit to how much she can use or perhaps it's unreliable physician came and said you called your majesty Arista recalled oh that person is the Royal Physician who diagnosed me in my past life physician gets startled by aresa oh a lady Monique at his unusual behavior aresa

wondered what's the matter with him later aresa asked how is the baroness doing physician told due to the amount of blood we thought the child was lost at first but luckily the child seems to be safe however both the child and the mother have been greatly distressed by this incident she requires care and caution until the child's birth she replied I see thank you aresa said inwardly thank goodness she already went through so much thank goodness she didn't have to suffer again she recalled when I first saw all the blood I remembered my miscarriage from

the past and panicked then Rivas said to Jun you did well too you may leave now she replied yes your majesty then the physician said pardon me lady Monique you don't look very well would you allow me to check your condition she checked up on her and said I heard that the poison you took slowly dries a woman's womb and that it was combined with another that Amplified its effects I wondered how you managed to survive such a serious dose of poisons Arista thought isn't it because the high priest continued to bless me physician told

when you bled during that incident it was probably from the womb That Couldn't endure the poison that had been accumulating you likely survived because the poison also left your system along with the blood if my diagnosis is accurate you will start menstruating again Within a month or two in other words you may be able to have children again after hearing that aresa gets shocked she thought I can have a child I could only imagine that scene unable to say it out loud to anyone but it can actually come true she happily turned towards ress then

realized how silly of me I'm the one who rejected him and pushed him away even though he begged yet I feel disappointed because he has his back to me she then ordered none of you are to speak of this matter for a while later she told her her father about the physician's diagnosis he asked her several times in a trembling voice if it was true then he quietly hugged her and patted her head for a long time Arista thinks in her mind what has tormented me for so long has finally been resolved so why do

I feel so frustrated why do I feel like I want to cry before she could even gather my thoughts the council meeting commenced the day after the foundation Day celebration ended though it was unusual all nobles with the rank of count or higher were required to be present by Imperial order for days ago beatric was resting in the waiting room there she ran into the third Prince of the Lisa Kingdom who came after her she said she was assaulted after they got into a heated argument regarding sfia then beatric has already become a member of

one of the Empire's Noble houses as such even the prince of another country must be questioned for harming her Maris Mila could not attend the meeting due to matters in his domain all the other Nobles gathered to discuss how to settle the matter with the kingdom of Lisa everyone agreed for the time being that the Crown Prince of Lisa and The Heirs of Noble's ranked count or higher must study abroad in the Empire as hostages sukuna said we thank you for such a grand welcome your majesty Rivas said this year's Foundation Day celebration was a

great success thanks to you too I would like to express my sincere gratitude then he said to Heron since we're done with our meal bring them in nobles were surprised aren't they inspectors but why would they be here of all places ress then told I suddenly collapsed a while ago at first I simply thought it was due to stress from work but the more I thought about it the stranger it seemed I've always been quite healthy so it was unusual for me to faint from that amount of work I gave this matter some thought over

the past few days and my conclusion is that I seem to have been poisoned nobles were shocked poisoned but who would dare do such a thing your majesty Rives continued that is why I would like to try a poison detection examination in front of you all today after hearing that aresa said inwardly so Duke Zena what will you do now she said in her mind the high priest procured the antidote for the poison that his majesty and I were Poisoned With and that plate was fixed to contain poison in order to announce this matter in

public today a few days ago we sent someone to investigate the secret safe and house Zena and obtained the seal but we couldn't find any clear evidence tying the Duke to this incident but with this examination we might be able to accuse the Duke of the crimes it's someone who is holding the wine Butler's daughter as a hostage someone who has a close relationship with the senior priests that can smuggle poison through the temple and someone who has a familial tie to the merchant that transported the poison when all the clues are put together Duke

Zena is the most likely suspect after testing corus said your majesty I regret to inform you but this dish is poisoned nobles were again shocked poison corus added it is clearly poisoned I corus the fourth root of God hereby swear upon my divine power the other filled in and I cuntis swear upon my divine power that his majesty is indeed afflicted by poison then rivus said so there is someone who dares to harm me from this point forward all Nobles are ordered to stay in their homes there will be another grand council meeting tomorrow at

this time all Nobles residing in the capital must attend aresa smiled thinking so it finally Begins the moment we've been waiting for the poison that was used in an attempt to harm his majesty and the poison that I was afflicted by were found to be identical as such the grand council meeting was held to find the culprit due to the graveness of the matter the grand hall was filled with Nobles without any vacancies when the maid that served me was found dead we couldn't find who was behind it but according to the report by Duke

verita we could find Clues from another route that was the who gave me the poison drink during the ball the announcer said Baron via during the foundation day ball last year you ordered a servant to hand over a poison drink to Lady Monique under the false impression that it was sent by his majesty the emperor do you admit to the crime he accepted I do he planned this together with Baron enan Baron soy and vount keth he also confessed that they were all taking orders from count Lanier Duke Ruth asked the criminal did Count Lanier

order you to do anything besides this he replied died the count ordered me to have several more servants ready just in case and I killed all of them after lady Monique fell unconscious none of them remain in the palace currently the Duke questioned the servant you paid is certainly still alive that's how you dared to poison his Majesty's cup Baron pleaded his majesty that's not true then Rua said Baron via you will take responsibility for your words if what you say is found to be false I shall not only punish you but all members of

house V you will all be executed for treason next they questioned Baron enan who manages transport and import duties with the kingdom of Lisa Baron enan adamantly denied that he smuggled poison from the kingdom of Lisa through the temple however there was evidence of the baron donating funds to a certain priest so the head of the merchant company and the priest were summoned to the trial barbaron the head of the merchant selling imported goods from Lisa within the Empire insisted that he didn't smuggle any poison Duke Ruth asked barbaron do you plan to continue this

facade you still insist that you didn't import the poison that was used to harm lady Monique he replied poison Baron enan shouted your majesty this is clearly intimidation will you just sit back and watch them threaten us babaon said if I knew it was poison I wouldn't have given it to the priest about 2 years ago priest soil asked me for some rare medicine that the priests needed so I transported that for the priest occasionally the priest asked me to keep ital confidential since it would trouble the other priests if they found out but I

I really didn't know that it was poison I'm innocent then Duke turned towards the priest and asked priest sorl is he speaking the truth he replied yes he is I was also simply carrying out orders I had no idea that the baron had other plans the Duke asked can you prove that he replied with proof I can he asked me for some rare medicine that is only found in the Kingdom of Lisa the purpose was confidential the baron said it would be Troublesome if it was inspected under his name so he asked me to transport

it through the temple I have proof of his request in a letter he said it was medicine and I believed it really if you give me a moment I can show you the letter Baron shouted what sorl how dare you Ruess ordered take all of them and put them in prison however priest sorel's sentence will be determined by the Sanctus V Temple then Duke Ruth announced count Lanier you are hereby found guilty of plotting the poisoning of Lady Monique in the process you used Baron enan and the temple to smuggle poison from the kingdom of

Lisa to the capital during last year's Foundation de ball you falsely used his Majesty's name to deliver a poison drink to Lady Monique do you admit that you were the one who orchestrated everything he reped yes I'm sure you have uncovered everything in your investigation I do not wish to stoop even lower arestia wondered why is he answering without hesitation did he already settle things with Duke Zena before Duke Ruth told two poisons were used to poison lady Monique one was continuously administered and the other Amplified the previous poison effect you admitted to using the

ladder he asked then are you the one who ordered a ma from the first brigade to continuously poison lady Monique count said I did smuggle both poisons and I orchestrated the poison drink during the ball however I did not order the maid to continuously administer the poison there are others who are involved with the one responsible for that count Holton count lling and count Hamill count Holton shouted what are you talking about I had nothing to do with that count Hamill complained Lanier how dare you looks like you've gone insane after the long imprisonment that

is a false accusation your majesty count laner continued and the one who orchestrated everything was Maris Mila everyone in the audience was shocked upon hearing his name Maris Mila the dcast is there any way you can prove that count laner said Marquis Mila is an intelligent man so I have no Clear Proof but one thing is for sure he committed treason upon hearing that rivus gets curious about something he asked count lanir how did you come to know of that he asked pardon ruus added after lady Monique collapsed from the poison you have been in

jail until now so I asked you how did you know of that treason when the others found out about that incident only recently he questioned there is no way you would have known unless you were taking part in the treasonous acts because you were strictly forbidden from meeting anyone he shouted in response no no it is not true your majesty I do not know of any treason it is true that I tried to harm lady Monique but under the name of God I swear that I never attempted to harm you your majesty rivus asked again

then are you saying someone disobeyed me and sent a message to you by infiltrating the heavily guarded Palace jail count Lanier said it it was Marquis milu he said it was his last order rues replied he would have been unable to send any message to you because he left the capital two days ago count Lanier realized that his lie had been caught Rives then announced by principle you all are due to be questioned according to the accusations you will not be imprisoned at the moment in light of your previous loyalty however you are strictly forbidden

from leaving your homes this verdict also applies to Marquis Mila and count Holton Duke Ras your Knights to summon them to the capital immediately Duke Ras complied yes your majesty then rues ordered all Nobles who attended the trial today will be forbidden from leaving the capital until this trial is concluded those who disobey or refuse to answer a summons will be assumed to be conspirators of treason after that in a discussion with Duke Ruth rues mentioned this should have been done a long time ago but it took too long the engagement cancellation he ordered Chancellor

make sure to submit this in the official records Duke replied immediately your majesty Rives added that would be best but I understand that is impossible under these circumstances keep it safe for now and proceed when all matters have been settled the Duke replied yes your majesty As You Wish later aresa met cunas he said our deal will be settled once this Grand council is concluded you've done well aresa said I am truly grateful for your full cooperation in this matter your Holiness he said humans cannot fathom the true intentions of God it is through Vita's

guidance that I came to cooperate with you lady Pioneer the same can be said of my deal with his majesty aresa asked your Holiness do you mean he told there was someone who suggested the same deal to me before you my lady it was his majesty after hearing that aresa recalled what I was very disappointed when he cut me off right away after I reported about the possibility of the Temple's intervention the priest continued even if the higher ranked priests are in conflict with each other I am still a priest worshiping Vita when I thought

about how the order would fall I couldn't help but feel a chill in my heart I was willing to do what I could to ask for forgiveness but his majesty suggested an offer to me first he offered to hand over the final Judgment of all the priests involved to me under one condition and his condition was that I regularly give you my blessing lady Pioneer he explained blessings tend to prevent bad influences he wanted to hope for the best although it was only a slim possibility but he said he didn't want to give you false

hope lest you be disappointed later so he asked me to keep this a secret it's true that I owe a debt to the late marianist but that wasn't the only reason I blessed you actually I called sexus here for that reason too I needed an excuse to stay here in the Empire upon hearing that aresa thinks in her mind I didn't know any of that I coldly rejected him even though he was trying to protect me I burned all my dresses swearing to give up on a life as a woman she recalled the past he

pleaded with me when I asked him to break off our engagement he begged me not to jump to conclusions and that he would do his best to find another solution he even told me that he was willing to give up his political background and support he was so considerate and respectful of me he showered me with love I know he's not the same person that he was in the past and I no longer believe that the future will be grim and miserable like it was before yet I'm still caught up in my fear and I

hate myself for that later at Marquis Mila estate as the fight break out many gets injured Arista wondered was it really you Marquis Mila you were the one behind all of this after all she thinks he was the one who planned everything she was concerned too many are injured here what can we do she recalled I wasn't expecting this at all when I was arguing with June in the morning before some time aresa stopped June by grabbing her hand and said lady Jun what are you doing right now she asked what aresa said your divine

power you can use it properly she question back yeah so what aresa demanded then why didn't I see that power of yours back then with baren his fear then it was easy for you to use it on these roses in the garden June was unable to answer that that was aresa added or did you not use it on purpose even though you could June felt unbearable she finally admitted fine I didn't use my powers on purpose satisfied now that's the answer you wanted right after hearing that Arista started walking June called from behind where are

you going I have something important to tell you Arista replied without looking back I have nothing to say to you Jun again called for her hey later a special mission was assigned to all Knights to track down Maris Mila the commander briefed he is a wanted felon who is refusing his summons so find him and arrest him in addition this Mission will be carried out in groups with the newly established third and fourth Brigade request for backup immediately when you find the Marquis the knights were caught in a trap placed by Maris milu arestia realized

I didn't even notice we were being lured into a dead end while chasing after him this this is the commoner's district but to have soldiers waiting inside the capital then did he really plan all of this secretly seeing the opposition arestia was sure they're probably after me suddenly carian came with June on a horse he shouted aresa are you all right looking at them aresa wondered why is Jun with him one of the attackers shouted darn it hurry up and get rid of that woman first get the target after her hearing that aresa shouted to

stop them she saw there going after June carian Fights Back shouting you bastards one of them slashed caran on his back as arisa's attention was that caran one of the Assassin attacks aresa but sir Seymour came in front of him and gets hurt aresa tried to stop his bleeding then suddenly Maris Mila came holding a sword seeing him aresa said inwardly Marquis Mila it really was you her resolve faltered should I just give up now if he's after me maybe he'll let the other go if I give up so many people are hurt I can't

continue like this but she rejected those thought no there's no way that man would let the others go just because he has me she stands up holding the sword she resolved I will fight until my death suddenly a thought crossed her mind if I am found dead will he weep for me too the Marquis milu raised his sword at caran to strike aresa shouted no caran instead of slashing car Ian he strike the Assassin he started fighting the Assassins aresa was shoked Marquis Mila why what's going on he suddenly attacked his ally why suddenly someone

shouted stop Emperor rivis came on horses and ordered lower your weapons and surrender you're already surrounded so don't attempt anything foolish the attackers realized darn it we failed they tried to retreat but Rivas ordered track down everyone who tries to escape don't let any of the traitors Escape looking at rivus aresa thinks is this a dream he came all the way here she took a breath of relief where saved then she turned towards caran and said carian stay with me why did you run in there by yourself carian looked pale he said you seem awfully

spirited so you must be okay thank goodness I got here in time after saying that carian closed his eyes Arista shouted carian she quickly turned to Jun and said lady Jun please I beg you please help sir caran Jun replied I can't aresa protested he was injured like that while protecting you how can you say that there should be a limit to how stubborn you can be hearing that tears started appearing at her eyes Jun shouted I want to help too I want to save him but I really can't do it she told my divine

power doesn't work on people Arista was shy knocked what what do you mean she questioned then what what about caran no I can't lose him like this what must I do then her father came and said calm down Tia he will be all right she replied but father a physician examined him and said he's unconscious after losing a lot of blood but we've treated him temporarily he should be able to endure until the high priest arrives you don't need to worry after hearing that aresa felt relieved thank goodness hanging there caran suddenly a soldier came

wounded and said lady aresa I'm glad you're safe looking at him aresa remembered that sir sephir of the Fourth Brigade she said I'm glad to see that you're all right too sir seier how is your shoulder wound the high priest will be here soon so hang in there he replied is that so then I need to take care of this right now Arista asked pardon he stabbed aresa and said fool you still haven't figured it out die aresa fell down unconscious someone shouted sir seier what did you do ruus shouted lady aresa her father also

rushed to her aresa meanwhile sephir was still shouting die die curse you house Monique other soldiers apprehended him Rives came to her side and Royal Physician rushed to check up on her ruas said you'll be all right hang in there where is the Royal Physician stop her bleeding at once physician said your majesty I regret to say this but her artery was cut and the bleeding won't stop Ro shouted again no save her at all costs he asked aresa can you hear me stay with me she barely called your majesty he said you don't need

to answer me just stay awake suddenly Isa recalled their conversation Rivas said do you hate me so much that you are willing to endure the vulgar gossip of other people without even one objection won't you see me for who I am I have always been sincere I will do as you wish if you still haven't changed your mind when the time comes that is why aresa I hope you will stay strong instead of giving up out of hasty desperation she remembered her own words as the 54th head of the family I Arista Pioneer La Monique

will now carry on the duty of my family according to the vow with the royal family please break off our engagement Rus asked won't you give me one chance she said everything will change with time suddenly it started raining ruus who was holding aresa shouted the high priest where is the high priest help her right now someone replied please calm down your majesty Rivas said to aresa please stay with me if you survive this I will do anything that you wish for I will let you succeed your family's title as you wish you no longer

have to be bound by the royal family I will stay out of your sight if you do not wish to see me anymore you are my breath you are the only one that is precious to me left in this lonely tumultuous world how am I to live if I lose you now tears started falling from his face as he said that aresa was faintly consu she said inwardly I'm sorry you were always so considerate she looked at him crying and then closed her eyes she added I only said apologies to you instead of thanking you

I'm sorry for constantly hurting you I'm sorry that I couldn't trust you I suppose I won't be able to keep my word this time if somehow I am given another chance then I will definitely meanwhile rues was begging and shouting no aresa aresa Tia please please please open your eyes after some time aresa opened her eyes and found herself inside the palace she Rises up and wondered why am I inside the palace could it be that everything that happened after I turned back time was a dream suddenly her father came behind the curtain and hubbed

her he thanked you're awake Tia she called father she thinks in her mind thank goodness the past 6 years weren't a dream or an illusion then her father asked her Tia are you still determined to succeed the family title he told to be honest I wasn't exactly fond of his majesty he's never been someone who appeared particularly warm-hearted as you know I acknowledged him as my Monarch but I wasn't pleased that he would be my daughter's husband but I saw how your gaze shook whenever you looked at him to me you look like you're breaking

your own heart I will support you no matter what you choose you should follow your heart she felt touched upon hearing that she then rushed towards ruus he asked are you all right now she replied yes your majesty Rivas said the culprit is currently being interrogated two of the asants have been arrested so it won't be difficult to find out who ordered them other than the Squire who was shot in the chest with an arrow all of the knights are unharmed and he added lastly I've reminded the chancellor so the paperwork to break off our

engagement should be processed by the end of today aresa spoke your majesty but he continued your ties to the royal family will soon be settled she called him again your majesty he continued there's nothing more that should concern aresa suddenly hugged him and said when I felt my body going cold in your arms I thought thank goodness that I can at least be in your arms during my last moment Ruess called Arisa she continued and I regretted it I regretted how I didn't realize my feelings for you until that moment he asked did I hear

that correctly are you actually saying that you have feelings for me upon realizing in rivis quickly HED him he said all I wanted was to live under the same sky as you I begged and prayed that your life would be spared even if it meant that I would only be able to see you from afar thank you God thank you so much Duke verita told her about what happened while she was unconscious he told Duke Zena was indeed behind the Ambush as we suspected from the beginning Marquis Mila chose to stand on our side and

we were able to confiscate the paper was proving that Duke Zena was behind the poisoning in addition lady Jun decided to confess and testify regarding the plans to assassinate aresa who would have thought that June would save aresa aresa was still wondering why did June choose to help me she then met with the high priest he said by the time I arrived you were already too far gone your life was at its limit and your heart had already stopped beating even I was about to give up on you then I sensed grasps divine power her

divine power was something that I've never seen before it was such a strong power aresa thought but she said her divine power didn't work on people does that mean Jun asked for a wish to save me and I heard that sir seier died he admired a lady who was a member of one of the merchant families working with house ca but after I drove the merchant company to bankruptcy the lady had to move elsewhere that was his motive sir sephor also cut the ends of my horse's Reigns and saddle on the day of my Coming

of Age perhaps I managed to survive that day because I met his majesty and finally the trial of Marquis Mila and Duke Zena began Marquis said I was a bystander of all that has happened until now I did not lead or order any of this as such I would like to testify against my charges Duke Zena is the true Mastermind who was behind all of this when Marquis Mila newly arrived at the capital he had no supporters that is when Duke Zena approached him he didn't agree with all of Duke Zena's beliefs but he chose

to cooperate in order to build his influence and reputation within the party he even testified that Duke Zena was the one who ordered to have aresa poisoned the Marquis tried everything within his power to stop Duke Zena however the Duke wasn't persuaded in fact he began Bri ing several officers at the palace in an attempt to harm aresa and even the emperor he also threatened the Marquis saying that he would be framed as the culprit if he didn't fully cooperate then the Duke asked your majesty do you intend to suspect me when all you have

is that man's word Duke Zena's reaction was predictable Ian velot the lover of the maid who poisoned arises te over a prolonged period of time testified that he was threatened and his daughter was kidnapped noviar the Royal Physician testified that Duke Zena blackmailed him after a medical accident he confessed that he had to report the emperor's condition to Duke Zena even though the emperor ordered that to be confidential Duke Zena appealed those imbeciles are all lying even after the continued testimonies Duke Zena denied all charges it was concluded that if the poisoning hadn't been found

out and had continued until now if June the Duke's adopted daughter became the empress and gave birth to an air in this situation then perhaps the Duke would have had the entire Empire in his hands when the emperor turned into a tyrant he could drive the emperor out and take control as the grandfather of the young Heir then Marquis Mila provided proof he said this is documented proof of Duke Zena's charges these are the Secret Letters the Duke sent to me these letters detail the plans to poison you your majesty Duke Zena denied I do

not know anything about that do you even have proof that I sent them then Duke Ruth came with evidence Valente castina after investigating this coat of arms we found that the house of Duke Zena had been using this Banner even before house Rass Duke Zena denied again isn't it a PO argument if you're suspecting house Zena over something that is several hundred years old it's more plausible to suspect house rra as the culprit Duke Ruth countered but we found a stamp with the same coat of arms in house Zena's Secret Safe we've already ident identified

the stamp to be identical to the seal on the letter Duke Ruth then said Duke Cena in the end you've forsaken the former Emperor favor even after he forgave you 10 years ago Valente castina it's time for you to step down as the Empire wishes upon hearing that Duke Zena went in shock he staggered and fell down the final verdict all of Duke Zena's immediate family members will face the same charges as the Duke and be executed accordingly Lord Zena humis diaa offered stands up and said aresa La Monique how dare you betray me you

witch aresa said inwardly I tried to hold up my end of the deal Lord Zena but you broke our promise and took part in treason after that aresa went to meet June Arista asked I heard that you were the one who informed us of the attack that day why did you do that if he chose to overlook it at least one of your wishes would have come true aresa told I hated you June you suddenly appeared out of nowhere and took everything away from me and I hated how you smiled innocently as if you didn't

even know I was angry that he loved you even though you were no better than me I couldn't accept the fact that you took everything I had worked my whole life for she asked again did this happen in the past too was he poisoned June spoke he had headaches dizziness trouble sleeping and extreme mood fluctuations those were all the symptoms he showed before he died it took only 4 years from the day you died as you know I'm not very keen on politics I tried to do what I could but it wasn't something I could

overcome by studying books so I don't know all the details behind what happened after the two Dukes left him his insomnia worsened and he would often get angry he also started to distance himself from me and was always wary of his surroundings then he left the capital on an expedition and never came came back aresa asked why did he leave the capital Jun told I don't know he didn't tell me anything he was in a hurry and left on an expedition while I was pregnant aresa thought him he probably had no choice but to leave

the capital the moment an air was born he'd be as good as dead perhaps he had no choice but to leave with his army even though he knew it was a gamble he gathered what was left of his soldiers to protect himself Jun and his child Jun said I was desperate back then you had your supporters in the past but I had nothing absolutely nothing I gave birth to a daughter but I had to flee without having any time to recover in the end I was tracked down and killed she said I resented him for

leaving me like that even though he'd whispered words of love to me and I hated The God Who left me in an unfamiliar world and neglected me I hated you too you say that I took everything away from you but in the end end there was nothing that I took you may have been demoted from being an empress but the aristocrats still supported you even those who supported me always compared me to you I thought I at least had the love of God in his heart but in the end they were all yours too no

matter how hard I tried I was only a replacement for you I was a competitor who was always inferior to you nobody truly accepted me for who I was she recalled her last moments as my vision grew dim I realized something even if I Begg God to return me to my world I would always suffer from the memories of this world for the rest of my life but if I wish to have my memories erased I would really be admitting that I was a failure do you get it you aren't the only one who wanted

to correct the past when I opened my eyes he was there again next to the one who stabbed a sword through my heart I chose to become his adopted daughter to use them and get my revenge because it would be easier to find their weakness if I was close to them she continued while recalling you asked me why I saved you the person I saw during the Ambush that day wasn't the same person I knew his words and his actions after I saw him like that I couldn't tell what was right or wrong anymore is

the past truly different from now then what have I been doing all this time after that I couldn't even understand why I was here anymore the trial must be over now am I to be executed as well since I'm a family member of a traitor a while ago Arista replied at the verdict but your majesty isn't suicide too cruel he said I don't prefer it myself but that is the consensus of the majority well I'll offer one other choice her death can be disguised and she can escape in the meantime however she must leave the

Empire as soon as she escapes the palace and never return again the red bottle holds a poison that will kill her the clear bottle holds a concoction that will put her into a temporary coma looking at the bottle aresa thought if I put this down here I will never have to deal with Jun again if June is gone I can truly sever myself from the past suddenly the wind blowed and the robe June was wearing flutters looking at her aristy thought the high priest said their hair color changes when they lose their divine power so

she really used her wish later at night aresa met with rues looking at him she thought what if he hadn't loved me me what if he hadn't cared about my feelings or what if he had given up on me before this was all over would I have been able to change my fate like this would I have overcome my past and learned to believe in love again she hugged him and said thank you for not giving up on me even though I only push you away thank you for telling me that you love me and

for helping me to change my fate rivus asked by Fate do you mean the dream you had before Arista was surprised how do you know about that he asked asked what kind of person was I in your dream I want to know how I hurt you and what you wanted from me in your dream I want to know so that I won't make you go through that ever again after hearing the whole story Ruess said I think I understand now it wasn't a happy ending I visited you while I was patrolling the borders when I

saw you like that almost out of your mind it made me think about a lot of things I wondered why you feared me so much and why you wanted to break our engagement despite all the inconvenience es that would follow that's when I saw the letter from Lord alenis I felt so bad for hating you over something when we were so young and you couldn't even remember what happened back then he looked at her and said thank you for telling me honestly I'll be good I'll do what I can so that you won't have that

nightmare again so won't you call me ru aresa smiled and called Ru upon hearing that Ruess smiled then said Thank you Tia after some days caran said it's been a while since we sat down and had tea like this this reminds me of the old days we used to sit next to the window to drink tea on rainy days like this he added I wonder how that grassy jerk is doing looks like he visited his home once or twice now I guess he's alive then I never thought I would come to miss that guy in

my whole life aresa smiled and said it's nice to talk about old times like this I've missed this caran then asked aresa about that promise before she replied oh yes you wanted about 2 days time he said you don't need to worry about that anymore she asked why caran told my mother told me something she didn't love my father at first but she chose to marry him because he made her feel comfortable and happy when she was with him then she realized that one day love isn't always like a burning fire sometimes love can be

like water that trickles down quietly I wanted to be like that too I wanted to be passionately in love just like my father was and I wanted to be loved calmly like my mother did he recall do you remember that field the one where we walked for a short while when we were returning from your estate Arista replied yes of course how could I ever forget that view caran said actually I was going to ask you to go there with me again and I wanted to tell you something but there's no need for that anymore

aresa was confused caran carian said you should get going his Excellency will be worried about you and the rain stopped aresa looked outside huh oh yeah then aresa thought what is this I feel like he's putting up a wall between us she said then I should go now see you later caran he looked solemn standing he said goodbye aresa aresa relied I see you're going to part with me now he was getting ready to say goodbye to me one last time then I I must not look back now she walked away and said inwardly goodbye

caran caran was looking relieved later she met her father he said you've done well until now Dame Monique she replied thank you Commander he said I've always hoped you would quit being a knight but it feels odd to actually see this now she replied I'm sorry Father I wanted to help you for as long as I could he smiled it's fine all I wish for is your happiness arista's father told her about their agreement with the royal family she can continue to act as the heir of house Monique even when she become the empress when

her father returns to Vita's arms she will inherit his title when that happens all that belongs to the Monique family will become hers then the Monique family's title will be passed down to a child of aresa with silver hair who will not be the heir to the throne in other words aresa will be the empress and the future head of house Monique at the same time she will have independent authority to make any decision with regarding to house Monique then she was greeted by Maris milu Marquis milu was demoted in the last trial and now

house Mila has the least authority of all Marquis houses though his purage title remains house Mila was stripped of all its aristocratic rights and will be treated the same as the count house he was also ordered to give up 20% of his estate or three marble quaries to the royal family but he did not express any discontent regarding his sentence he said I'm sure you're not pleased with our faction but I do hope you won't despise all of us because of a few I know this is difficult to ask for but in the end we

are all working for the good of the Empire are we not aresa concluded though our methods May differ both factions exist in order to create a better future for the Empire some of the more aggressive members have forgotten that and lost their followers now the moderate members follow Marquis Mila's lead within the aristocratic faction I'm sure things will be better than before after some time aresa saw deck potato Gallows and the past memories came rushing death to the sinner rivus asked her will you be all right she nodded she recalled after the last investigation I've

learned a few things before house Monique was called the most loyal servant of the Empire house Zena acted as the Royal Family's right hand that is why they used the coat of arms of Volente castina however house Monique offered their absolute loyalty through the oath of blood and house Zena no longer had control over their former role they grew more distant from the royal family as time went by in the end they chose to join the aristocrats against the royal family it's understandable that how Cena would feel hostility toward house Monique but the Duke went

too far perhaps that's one of the reasons God sent me back in time to save the many innocent lives that had to die as a result of the Duke's greed while on The Gallows Zena shouted you bastards I will curse you all even in Hell later aresa met with the high priest he told when I was young a woman visited sanus V she wanted to help her sick mother but at the time the higher priests who were taking care of me taught me not to use my powers without a donation so I neglected her plea

with a heavy heart a few days later the woman came back and angrily yelled that her mother died because of me that woman was marianist Monique after that the Martian despised me very much she did forgive me later on but I always felt indebted to her now I feel like I finally pay back part of my debt aresa thought I see that must be why he always looked out for me she said may I ask you one thing your Holiness she remembered God said the child he blessed ended up twisting the fate of many others

and so God chose to turn back time in order to correct that perhaps the person I am now is also a fate that was already decided God said that fate is something that can't be changed by humans then who decides Our Fate the high priest said if that is the conclusion you've come to after your contemplation then that is the answer all I can say is that your contemplation the process and the result are all part of God's plan aresa thinks in her mind right my name Pioneer I wanted to escape it yet when I

was given the name by God I finally chose to take the first step down this long and dangerous path that is why vaa I will believe I have built my own path just like the name you have given me I've refused to accept it for a long time and I resented you for it at times but I now thank you for giving me my name because I would have left the palace a long time ago if not for that name then I wouldn't have been able to share my feelings with him like I do now

nor would I have dreamed of a future with him later she met with Ruess who kneeled in front of her holding her hand and said I swear upon the blood that flows in my body and the heart that beats in my chest I swear upon my life and my heart and offer my all to you aresa gets flustered your majesty that is the oath of blood he said please accept my wish Tia My Love She asked what is your wish he replied my wish is to be with you until the day I die I wish

to fall asleep at night with you and wake up in the morning with you I wish to think of the future of the empire together with you I want us to share all happiness and sadness together and live our lives only looking at each other aresa asked even though it will cost you your whole life he replied if you accept my wish I will also have you for the rest of your life I believe that is a fair trade aresa said but it will cost you your life if you go against your vow he replied

it does not matter because my love for you will never change until the day I die won't you give me your answer now will you grant me my wish she replied I accept your wish and now your blood and your heart belong to me whoever violates this oath will be cursed by Blood this oath is sacred as it is the oath of blood engraved in The Lion and the spear May the blessing of Life be with you dear God dear Vita the father of all life the Glorious son of the Empire and the child of

the prophecy who will become the moon stand before you we ask that you bless their Union Arista Pioneer La Monique my partner in oath and my one and only love I now name you the noblest of all ladies in the Empire you are the first lady of the Empire the empress the most brilliant lady and the most loved Lady of the Empire I bestow upon you the Glorious name of Christina May the blessing of Vita and the grace of the Sun be with you