Chapter 18

“I’m leaving.”

“Okay.” I tried to ignore Ian in front of me and answered while looking at the empty air. Why? Since watching Ian’s swordsmanship training yesterday, it felt burdensome to meet his gaze.

So, I pretended to be unwell and skipped dinner, feigning an early sleep. Ian stroked my hair as I slept and mumbled ‘good night.’ That bothered me so much that I couldn’t fall asleep until dawn.

“Are you still not feeling well?”

“No, I’m not.”

“Then why can’t you look me in the eye?”

Ian’s face came too close. Meeting his purple eyes, I felt a pointless heat rising. 

This is a game, I earnestly ingrained in my mind.

“That statue over there looks particularly cool today.” 

I muttered, looking at the torso statue of an unknown person located far away in the garden.

“I guess I should get rid of it.”

“Are you crazy? Just go.” 

I didn’t know why he insisted on talking instead of just getting into the carriage and leaving quickly. I shoved Ian’s arm unnecessarily.

“That’s harsh. I won’t be back for a while, you know.”

“You didn’t come back for months even when you went back to the Academy.”

“It might take longer this time.”

“You’ll be back soon.” In the original game, the Red Dragon was caught right before the end of the semester. Of course, it was a lucky encounter during the training. And if it takes longer, that’s better for me. If I don’t see Ian for a long time, my strange state will naturally resolve itself.

“I’m hurt. I thought you’d be sad.”

“Come back healthy. Health is the best. And you said the Red Dragon breathes fire. Try pouring water on it.” 

I naturally mentioned its weakness as casually as possible. If you attack its mouth with water before it can breathe fire, the Red Dragon gets startled and freezes for about 5 seconds.

Anyway, feeling that Ian was too close, I took a step back and waved my hand. Now Ian would surely get into the carriage and leave. Just as I felt briefly relieved.

“You two won’t be able to see each other for a while. How about a farewell hug?”

“What are you saying!” 

Clueless Anna made a strange suggestion. Unlike me, who shook my head to refuse, Ian opened his arms toward me.

“Calm down. We’re not that kind of couple.”

“You’re husband and wife, though.”

We weren’t an ordinary couple. Before I could object, Ian quickly approached and hugged me tightly. Because of that, I unconsciously wrapped my arms around Ian’s waist and then quickly regained my senses.

“Done. Let go.” 

But Ian ignored me and tightened his arms around me. Crazy. My heart was pounding like it was broken. As I punched Ian’s back in frustration, the arms wrapping around my body released.

“I’m leaving.”

“…Be careful, and take your time.” 

So I can sort out these unnecessary feelings.

Only after such an extraordinary farewell did Ian finally get into the carriage. I watched the carriage, which was gradually becoming a dot, and then went back into the mansion.

***

A month has already passed since Ian left. The first letter arrived.

「Hello. I hope you’re doing well. I’m doing fine.

 

I thought I would have caught the Red Dragon by now, but it’s taking longer than expected.

 

The creature is quite good at hiding. I don’t know why it’s hiding, though.

 

Still, I’ll probably catch it before the semester ends.」

He added that he was diligently dealing with other high-level monsters and that since the situation was urgent, he could only send one letter a month, and only to one person.

‘But why send it to me of all people?’

Feeling that familiar itchiness somewhere, I unnecessarily scratched my arm. My lips kept trying to curve into a smile, so I forced a serious expression and opened the second letter.

「Hello, Sia. It’s been a while.

 

I’m sorry I couldn’t properly say goodbye because I wasn’t feeling well that day.

 

We are hunting petty monsters every day.

 

(~~~~)

 

It seems it will take quite a long time before I return.

 

Perhaps I might even return after the year changes.

 

Stay healthy until then. I’ll contact you again.」

Even Angelo sent me a letter. I understand Ian, but shouldn’t Angelo send his first letter to his parents? Folding the letter with a slightly uneasy feeling, I heard a small laugh in front of me.

‘Right, I wasn’t alone.’ 

I looked up at Ethel, who was sitting across from me. She was sipping milk tea, her gaze fixed on me.

“Why?”

“Oh, nothing. You just look happy.”

Ethel said that since Ian and Angelo left, she hadn’t received any more quests after the last one to send a letter to Ian. So, Ethel had sent one polite letter to Ian, telling him to be careful. Perhaps bored because the frequent quests had stopped, she had volunteered to visit the Ducal mansion today, a month later, as soon as the weekend arrived.

“Aren’t you going to reply?”

“I won’t. I received a request from Lala.”

Immediately after Ian left, I received a quest from Lala for the first time in a very long time: not to send a letter to him until he returned. I was so creeped out when I received that quest. The timing and content of the quest were so spot-on that I wondered if Lala had noticed my feelings. Since replying only to Angelo might upset Ian, I decided to be fair and not reply to either of them.

‘Maybe it’s a good thing.’ 

I was a problem for harboring strange feelings, but Ian, who was trying too hard to be close only to me, was also a problem.

‘Our relationship is too close.’ 

Ian and I needed to maintain a distance.

“Really? Ian will be disappointed.”

“Fulfilling the request from Lala is more important. More important than the ‘entertainment male lead’.” 

I deliberately emphasized ‘entertainment male lead.’ It was the perfect phrase to help me sort out the strange feelings I had felt right before he left. However, unlike my determined look, she just chuckled.

“Miss Sia, do you truly think this is entertainment?”

“It is entertainment. It makes even less sense for this to be reality.” 

Of course, I also sometimes felt that this place was not a game but reality. But I had to deny it. I was going back to reality soon.

“It’s strange that it’s even entertainment. The company that created this entertainment is not a large corporation.”

“That’s true.” 

It was a fledgling game company that had first released the original game.

“Doesn’t it make no sense that such a new company created entertainment that would cost an enormous amount to produce? Something this realistic would be difficult for even a large corporation to make.”

“But the Ian we met is indeed the Ian from the entertainment, isn’t he?”

“It might be transmigration instead of entertainment.”

To be honest, I had also considered that possibility. However, if it were transmigration, why would Lala give me quests periodically? As if reminding me not to forget that this was a game. Perhaps because I showed no reaction, Ethel added her opinion.

“For entertainment, even the extras who don’t appear in the game are too realistic, like actual people.”

“That’s true.”

“Moreover, even the temple I never visited in that entertainment seemed real.” 

I didn’t know why Ethel was blushing while talking about the temple.

“You get around quite a bit.”

“I was a bit curious. There was a very handsome Holy Knight at that temple.”

“Don’t forget. You must end up with Ian.”

“I know. In this world, I can’t even marry a Holy Knight anyway. But every time I see him, I doubt whether this place is a real entertainment. The extras seem like real people.” 

To me, Ethel just looked like someone who had lost her senses because the Holy Knight was too handsome.

“What kind of person is he?”

“He’s like first snow.” Ethel expressed it quite romantically.

“Seeing him blush whenever I approach makes me want to corrupt him. To the extent that I want to experience a forbidden love.” 

I should take back saying it was romantic.

“No! Don’t have feelings for an extra.”

“Hmm, if you put it that way, Miss Sia, aren’t you in more serious trouble?”

“Why me?”

“You seem to have at least some interest in Ian.”

“It’s the interest of a friend.” 

Too stung, I denied it by vigorously shaking my head.

“Well, let’s assume that’s true. Tell me if you need my help.” 

She stood up. The sky, which had been bright blue, was now beginning to show the sunset glow. I also stood up and walked her to her carriage. She repeatedly told me to ask if I needed her help.

“I absolutely must see the happy ending. The real me is dying, you know.”

“Miss Sia, you don’t trust the words of Lala 100%, do you?”

“Even so, what can I do? I have to try.”

“I should try to talk to Lala, but the problem is that he hasn’t come to me recently either.”

We arrived at her carriage. Even as she got into the carriage, Ethel kept talking about offering help. I pretended not to hear and waved goodbye. It seems I showed too much interest in Ian. I must strongly resolve to treat Ian only as a friend the next time I meet him.

***

“I thought they would be back by now…”

“They’ll be back soon, I guess. At least it’s a relief there’s no harm done yet.” 

Anna’s expression, as she handed me the letters, was full of worry and anxiety. I received the two letters with a bored expression. I wasn’t overly worried. If something serious had happened to Ian, I would have been contacted through someone else already. The fact that he even had the leisure to send letters meant it wasn’t dangerous yet.

Still, Ian’s prediction that he would return soon was wrong. We were seventeen now, after all.

‘I’ve never not seen Ian for this long.’

I even wondered if Lala was actively trying to sort out my useless feelings. I read Ian’s letter first. The letter, which began by asking about my well-being, said he was still desperately trying to catch the Red Dragon. He said they were following its tracks, but it would move quickly before the humans could arrive. So much so that even those who had studied monsters their whole lives found it strange, wondering if someone was controlling the Red Dragon. As a result, Ian couldn’t return home. And at the end of the letter:

「How can you not send a single reply?

 

Are you really that busy?

 

Are you mad at me for something? I’m sorry. I don’t know why you’re mad.

 

Can’t you tell me in a reply?」

The content expressed a desire for my reply. It was understandable that he was curious. I hadn’t sent a single reply so far.

This time, I read the letter from Angelo. It contained greetings and a request to wait, saying he knew I must be lonely. I hadn’t sent Angelo a single letter either, but unlike Ian, he didn’t press for a reply. He was indeed as foolishly devoted as ever.

“Are you really not going to reply?”

“Yes.”

“The Young Master will be disappointed. You haven’t sent him a letter even once.”

“He should be focusing on catching the monster rather than letters. Let’s go.”

I stood up with a resolute expression. Not only had we greeted the New Year without Ian, but today I had to face Liam alone without Ian.

‘I can do this.’

I would only be vigilant against Liam. I got into the carriage with a stern expression, like someone heading to a battlefield. I felt Duke Bellocchio’s gaze looking at me strangely, but I didn’t care.

‘Just try to approach my sister.’

Today, Liam, who had become an adult, would become a Count. Although reluctant, I had to attend his succession ceremony. He was holding a party, inviting collateral family members and close nobles. And, of all the people invited, one was my sister. According to my sister, he still occasionally courted her. Of course, she was refusing him sharply, as I had asked.

The star of today’s party would surely cause all sorts of commotion to get involved with my sister. I clenched my teeth unnecessarily and then subtly glanced at Duke Bellocchio sitting across from me. He was looking out the window with a worried expression.

‘It makes sense.’ 

Not a single letter had arrived from Adria. Based on what the maids said, Duke Bellocchio seemed to send letters often…

The carriage kept going and arrived at the Count of Liveri’s estate.

“Straighten your expression.”

“Yes.” 

I followed Duke Bellocchio, got out of the carriage, and walked toward the mansion. The mansion was only the size of the Ducal mansion’s annex. We passed through a hallway decorated with various artwork and entered the hall. It was obvious that the interior was decorated with expensive luxury items for today, but I wasn’t impressed. It was inferior to the Ducal mansion’s main building.

“You’ve arrived?” 

My sister was the first to greet me as soon as I entered the hall. I took her hand and searched for Liam with my eyes. Fortunately, as the main character of the day, he was busy receiving congratulations from the surrounding nobles. Yet, I could feel him subtly glancing at my sister.

‘Not a chance.’ 

I hugged my sister tightly and glared, and Liam scoffed in annoyance.

“Absolutely do not talk to that guy alone.”

“Sia, please. Speak like a noble. You are the future Duchess, you know.”

“Hmph.” 

I released the arms I had wrapped around my sister. Only then, perhaps feeling sorry, my sister stroked my hair, and when an unknown noble approached, she greeted him warmly. Then a business conversation started that I couldn’t understand. I forced a smile and retreated.

‘I’m bored.’ 

The absence of the person who was always by my side at such events made me feel very empty. I looked around the hall, trying to find something interesting.

‘That’s what I like the most.’ 

In the center of the table with refreshments was a chocolate fountain. I subconsciously started to approach it but quickly snapped out of it.

‘I have to act mature.’ 

Eating excitedly here would feel like a loss to Liam. So, I was just glaring at the chocolate fountain when a delicate voice spoke from behind.

“It’s been a while. Thank you for coming to my brother’s succession ceremony.”

“How have you been? Your health…” 

I couldn’t help but be shocked at the sight of Celine, whom I hadn’t seen in a long time. She was even thinner due to her long illness, and her bright eyes had lost their vitality. I felt sorry to even ask about her well-being. To be honest, I felt it was a miracle that Celine was even standing here now.

“I’m trying hard with the treatment, but it doesn’t seem easy.” 

She looked as if even curling up her lips was a struggle.

“You look tired. Why don’t you rest instead of overdoing it?”

“Still, it’s the day my brother inherits the title, so I must attend.”

‘What’s so great about that Liam guy…’ 

I looked at her with pity and carefully led her to a chair tucked in a corner. Sitting in the chair, her expression looked much more comfortable.

“If you’re tired, you can lean on my shoulder.”

“I’m fine for now. Thank you.” 

I would feel more at ease if she just leaned on me… Like a noble lady, she sat with her back straight. She looked so fragile.

“Thank you for coming today. Finally, my son will become the master of the County of Liveri.” 

The voice of Count Liveri was heard from the center of the hall, and the nobles gathered around him in a circle. Except for Celine and me. I had no interest, as I was only attending out of courtesy.

“During this time, my son, Liam, has made countless efforts to follow me and become a Count.” 

A boast about Liam followed. He had always maintained a high rank at the Academy and never disappointed his parents with his consistently upright conduct.

‘Lies.’ 

He had even come to the Ducal mansion to apologize for bullying Ian.

“This is the ring that only the master of the County of Liveri can possess. Now, it belongs to Liam.” 

When Count Liveri finished speaking, the nobles applauded. This was followed by Liam’s predictable speech, expressing gratitude and promising to protect the Liveri family to the best of his ability. I was listening to the commotion with a bored expression when I felt a heavy weight on my right shoulder.

“Miss Celine, are you alright?” She was leaning on me with her eyes closed. I asked quietly, but there was no answer. Causing a commotion here by shouting that Celine had collapsed wouldn’t do any good. The gossiping nobles would be busy badmouthing Celine and the Liveri family. I looked around and signaled to a nearby knight.

“Please quickly escort Miss Celine to a room.” 

He looked familiar with the situation, perhaps because he was a knight belonging to the Liveri family. That was a relief, though. Everyone’s attention was focused on Liam and Count Liveri. We quietly left the hall and headed to Celine’s room.

***

Lying on the bed, she looked like a corpse. If I hadn’t placed my hand under her nose, I would have thought she was dead.

I waited for a moment, and the physician entered. The white-haired man put medication between her lips. His movements were natural, as if he had been doing it for a very long time.

“You’re just giving Miss Celine medicine without even checking her condition?”

“The Lady has been ill for so long that I know just by looking.”

“What disease is it, exactly?” 

I was curious. Celine had always been unwell. I had asked about the name of the disease several times so I could send some medicinal herbs, but she never answered.

“It is a rare disease. The cause and cure are not yet known. She is simply losing vitality day by day.” 

So that’s why she’s constantly suffering. The moment I sighed deeply, the door opened and Liam appeared.

“She collapses frequently these days.” 

Liam, seemingly worried about his sister, sat on the edge of the bed and held Celine’s hand. Based on Liam’s words, Celine’s condition must have worsened.

“You should be keeping your place, as you are the protagonist of the day.” 

At the physician’s words, Liam firmly shook his head.

“Celine is more important.” 

So, the man who used to glare at Ian as if to kill him and even framed him still cherishes his family.

“Thank you for taking care of my sister. Tha- Tha…” 

He couldn’t finish his sentence. It seemed his pride was wounded to say thank you to me. Of course, I didn’t want to hear such words from Liam either. I unnecessarily frowned and glared at Liam, and then an item came to mind.

“Don’t you have that?”

“What?”

“The thing you gave to the Duke as an apology after you were caught framing Ian at the hunting competition.”

Count Liveri had given Duke Bellocchio Blood Herb as a gift to apologize for his son’s wrongdoing. It was a precious herb that grew by accumulating dragon’s blood and was said to save even the dying. Perhaps because it was such a valuable herb, Duke Bellocchio only received two stalks. Yet, he was overjoyed.

“Blood Herb? If we had it, my parents would have already given it to Celine.”

“Don’t you think your parents would have kept a spare?” I had a hunch that the petty Count Liveri wouldn’t have handed over all the precious Blood Herb to Duke Bellocchio. He must have kept at least one or two for himself.

“It only appears once every hundred years, so how could my parents have kept a spare?”

Was I just being presumptuous? I ran my hand through my hair in frustration, and the door opened again.

“To leave the spot first, before the guests I invited especially for you. That is rude.” 

The owner of the voice was Liam’s father, now the former Count. Duke Bellocchio was also visible behind the former Count and his wife.

“How can I smile and stay there when Celine has collapsed?”

“Is this the first or second time?” 

Count Liveri looked at his daughter with cold eyes.

“I have a question. Do you really not have any Blood Herb?”

“As precious as that is, there’s no way I would have it.”

“I thought you might not have given all of that precious herb to our Duke.”

“That is rude.” 

I wasn’t particularly afraid when Liam’s father glared at me. It was nothing compared to Duke Bellocchio’s cold gaze toward me.

“It’s just human instinct to want to possess something precious. So, when are you going to use it?”

“Even if I have it, I cannot use it now.”

“The herb might spoil, though.”

“I have cast a spell to keep it fresh, so it’s fine.”

“The conclusion is that you have it, then.” 

He couldn’t say anything more and fell silent.

“Father, why are you only keeping it? You should give it to Celine right away.”

“Unfortunately, there is only one. Shouldn’t it be used when you, who will protect the family, need it?”

“Then what about Celine…?” 

Liam’s voice trembled, and his eyes reddened. He tightly clenched his fists, seemingly suppressing his anger, but his fists were shaking.

“That is why I have assigned a physician to her side. I am paying so much attention to her that it is a miracle she is still breathing.”

“How could you… I’m fine. Give it to Celine right away…”

“That is absolutely not allowed. If something happens to you, our family will be ruined.”

“Celine is your child too!” 

Liam and his father’s voices rose. Yet, neither seemed willing to accept the other’s opinion.

‘The day has come when I would take Liam’s side.’ 

I sighed and asked Duke Bellocchio.

“How about we share the herb we have instead? Celine is your niece.”

“This is not mine. It belongs to Adria.” 

Insanely crazy love. I almost swore, but I held it in.

“Duke, you have two anyway.”

“I only have two.”

“Duke, can we talk for a moment?” When I pointed to the door, he nodded and went out into the hallway. Even though the door was closed and I knew the others were in Celine’s room, I spoke softly to Duke Bellocchio.

“Your wife still doesn’t accept your letters, right?” 

I called him out to the hallway because I couldn’t bring myself to ask this question in front of the Liveri family members. Duke Bellocchio consistently sent her letters and precious gifts, but they were always returned. So, I thought Ian had pulled some old tricks. However, the letters were still being returned even now that he was away on subjugation, conveying her intent.

“That herb will be useless if your wife returns it anyway, won’t it?”

“So you’re telling me to use it on Celine?”

“Yes, use it. You will still have one left even if you use it on Celine. And if this fact becomes widely known, it will surely reach your wife’s ears.”

“Would Adria’s actions really change if this fact became known?” 

Unfortunately, he wasn’t convinced by my persuasion. But I didn’t give up and opened my mouth.

“If the news spreads that you didn’t hesitate to use such a precious herb for your niece, your wife might be moved by your good deed.”

“I doubt it. Besides, Adria has no interest in anything other than magic. She doesn’t listen to outside news.”

“But I can make sure your wife hears about your heroic act.”

“You, who didn’t even manage to get into the Academy?”

…Why is he hitting me where it hurts during a conversation? Feeling awkward, I cleared my throat unnecessarily.

“Are you planning to tell Erlian? Even if you do, he won’t listen. He will assume I ordered him to exaggerate or lie.”

“I wasn’t planning on having Ian do it either. You know Angelo, who often visits the mansion, right?”

“You mean the son of the Marquis Leglorie.”

“Yes. He’s in the Academy’s Magic Department. He’s even the second best. Besides, he unconditionally grants my requests.” I couldn’t bring myself to say that Angelo was my fool.

Duke Bellocchio was silent, lost in thought. I waited anxiously, watching him.

“Fine. It won’t hurt if I gain points with Adria. Since I only have to use one anyway.”

“Thank you.”

“Wait in the room.” 

It was a relief. Whether I smiled brightly or not, he gestured toward the room and walked to the end of the hallway. He was probably going to order a servant to bring the Blood Herb.

I walked into the room with much lighter steps.

‘Why is the atmosphere like this?’ 

Unlike me, who was smiling, the atmosphere in the room was chilly.

“Think rationally, Liam Liveri.”

“How could you do that to Celine!”

“If I hadn’t, you would have died.” 

Liam’s father was resolute. What on earth was going on? I was curious but couldn’t bring myself to ask. I was just watching the situation when Liam shouted.

“It was forbidden magic. You transferred my disease to Celine.”

“It couldn’t be helped. Instead, you are healthy, aren’t you? Celine was deliberately born to transfer your disease.” 

Listening to the conversation between the two, I could infer the situation. It was originally young Liam who suffered from the rare disease. It was a strange disease where unused magical power accumulated in his body like a poison.

Of course, it was in the very early stages when he was a newborn, and he was born robust, so he was okay, they said. Still, the anxious Liveri couple tried to create a new successor, but when their daughter Celine was born unexpectedly, the plan changed.

‘I can’t believe this is possible…’ 

The facts that were subsequently revealed made me laugh hollowly.

The desperate Liveri couple tried for a third child, but the mother wouldn’t become pregnant easily. So, the Liveri couple hired a mage who knew how to use forbidden magic and gradually injected Liam’s disease into Celine’s body. Moreover, Celine, who was born with a weak constitution, was particularly unable to withstand the disease.

“Where is the person who performed such a horrific spell? I cannot just watch my sister die.”

“I don’t know.”

“Then use the Blood Herb right away.”

“Wouldn’t it be better to keep it ready in case you are in a critical state?”

“Isn’t Celine your child too?” 

Liam’s hand was still wrapped around Celine’s. The Blood Herb was supposed to be used from Duke Bellocchio’s stash… I just watched without saying anything. What did their fight have to do with me?

Sitting in the chair, I looked at Celine while watching the three people who were raising their voices and asserting their opinions. Celine’s eyelashes, which had been lying still, fluttered slightly.

‘Celine woke up.’ 

Maybe she woke up even earlier. But perhaps she was still pretending to be unconscious, at a loss as to how to react because her family was fighting over her.

‘Then she heard everything her parents were saying until now.’ 

I stood up and blocked the Liveri parents.

“The two of you, please leave for now. We will take care of Miss Celine.”

“This is the Liveri family’s affair.”

“It’s my friend’s affair too. If you won’t hand over the Blood Herb, please leave for now. What if Miss Celine hears you?” 

The two couldn’t argue with me anymore. Frustrated, I pushed their backs toward the door and said, “I’ll tell you when Miss Celine wakes up. Just leave for now.” 

The former Count Liveri glared at me, seemingly displeased with my actions, before leaving the room. What was he going to do if he glared? I also glared at his retreating figure unnecessarily. Only Celine, Liam, and I remained in the room.

“You were right.” 

He covered his face with both hands, mumbling in frustration.

“My parents had the Blood Herb but hid it. And to even transfer my disease… All because of me.” 

Is he actually crying? I leaned forward to look between Liam’s hands but gave up because I couldn’t clearly see his eyes. If I were my usual kind-hearted self, I would have comforted Liam, telling him that Duke Bellocchio’s Blood Herb was on its way.

However, perhaps because my relationship with Liam had been so bad, I didn’t want to tell him that fact immediately. Should I say I wanted to see him upset for a little longer?

‘Of course, I’m not planning to report the fact that they used forbidden magic, though.’ 

He was Ian’s relative, after all. If the fact that the Liveri couple used forbidden magic was revealed, the Bellocchio Duchy’s image would also suffer. There might even be an investigation into whether the Bellocchio Duchy also used forbidden magic. So, even if I came forward to report it, Duke Bellocchio would stop me.

I decided to leave the crying Liam alone and sat on a comfortable-looking sofa in the corner. After a short wait, the door opened, and Duke Bellocchio entered.

“Fabio was very angry.” 

Who is Fabio? Is he talking about Liam’s father? Since I didn’t know the name, I couldn’t react. On the other hand, Liam quickly wiped his tears and replied calmly.

“Honestly, I don’t know why Father is angry. The one who should be angry is Celine.” 

So he was indeed Liam’s father. I glanced at Liam, who was fixed on Celine, and then asked Duke Bellocchio next to me softly.

“Is that on its way?”

“Soon.” 

Wow, that’s a really long answer. He must truly be reluctant to use the Blood Herb. Since there was nothing more to say, I just stared blankly at the wall until the item arrived.

A short time passed, and a cautious knock was heard. I impatiently flung the door open and met the eyes of a Bellocchio family servant. He bowed to me and handed me a box. The crest of the Bellocchio family was engraved on the top of the box, proof that a valuable item was inside.

“Thank you. You can return now.” He bowed to me and Duke Bellocchio and closed the door with a very careful touch.

‘What does it look like?’ 

I was curious since I had only heard about it but never seen the real thing. I slightly opened the box to check the contents, pretending to confirm the item had arrived properly. The item lived up to its name. The tips of the palm-sized leaves were red, as if stained with blood.

I closed the lid of the box again and looked at Duke Bellocchio. He gestured toward Liam, as if telling me to handle it myself. Liam’s gaze was no longer fixed on Celine but on me and Duke Bellocchio. His expression showed curiosity about what was in the box I was holding.

“You should be grateful to me for the rest of your life. Don’t ever use that for anything foolish.” 

Too proud to hand it directly to Liam, I simply tossed the box near his thigh and left the room to return to the Ducal mansion. Duke Bellocchio had already left while I was giving the box to Liam. I quickly walked to catch up with Duke Bellocchio, who was already halfway down the corridor.

“You must keep your promise.”

“Of course.” 

He just slightly nodded and showed no other reaction. When I return to the Ducal mansion, I must write a letter first, instead of lying down. After a very long time.

***

 

「Hello, Angelo.

 

How are you?

 

I haven’t been able to send a letter because I’ve been busy. I’m sending this secretly only to you, so don’t let Ian find out.

 

The reason I’m sending this letter despite being so busy is because my father did something really wonderful.

 

Do you know about the Blood Herb?

 

(~~~~)

 

He used that precious thing for my cousin, Miss Celine. Isn’t that amazing? I hope you don’t keep this good deed to yourself but spread the word widely. Especially so it can reach the ears of the Magic Professor.」

Unlike Angelo, who was smiling throughout reading the letter, Erlian’s expression was not good. Erlian already knew who had sent the letter. The crest stamped on the envelope was the symbol of his family, which he had grown tired of seeing since he was a child.

“What did Ellie say?”

“It’s nothing much. Just a simple greeting. It said that Duke Bellocchio gave a precious Blood Herb for the young lady Liveri.” 

Angelo replied, folding the letter with careful hands, as if he were putting away a very valuable item.

“Why would she tell you something like that?”

Erlian thought he knew why she had sent such a letter. She must certainly want the fact to reach his mother, Adria. However, he couldn’t understand why she had sent it to Angelo instead of him.

“Well, I don’t really know.” 

It happened again. That feeling of deep defeat toward Angelo.

Erlian understood even though Elicia hadn’t sent him a single letter, citing busyness. Of course, he was disappointed, but what could he do? She said she was busy. In fact, he only managed to learn of her busyness through a letter from Elicia’s friend, Ethel.

「Hello.

 

Is the subjugation proceeding without any trouble?

 

I recently visited the Bellocchio Duchy.

 

Miss Sia seemed very busy. It seems she doesn’t even have time to send a letter, so I hope you’re not too disappointed about not receiving a reply.

 

That’s all for now.」

No one would know how relieved Erlian felt reading that extremely dry letter. Of course, Ethel occasionally sent letters after that. The content was always dry, and it felt as if someone had forced her to inquire about his well-being. Of course, Erlian never replied to her letters.

There was another reason why Erlian was okay with not receiving Elicia’s letters: she hadn’t sent any to Angelo, who was supposedly so close to her, either. Although, it was strange that Angelo didn’t seem disappointed at all, unlike himself. But now, almost half a year after leaving for the subjugation, Elicia finally sent a letter only to Angelo.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have checked the letter in front of you after all.”

“No, it’s fine.” 

Erlian tried hard to act okay, but something inside him felt like it was boiling. 

‘What on earth are you?’

Erlian wondered why he felt this inexplicable emotion only regarding things related to Elicia.

Just then. 

Bang!

A flare signaling an emergency shot up into the sky from afar, and at the same time, a chilling, ear-grating sound resonated.

“It looks like the knights have finally found the Red Dragon.”

Erlian nodded at Angelo’s words and began to move. It was time to end the tedious subjugation schedule and return.

“There’s still no reaction.”

“Father, it’s only been a week since I sent the letter. And given the situation, it couldn’t be helped…”

 I closed my mouth under Duke Bellocchio’s sharp gaze and forced a smile. Given the circumstances, the letter would have reached Angelo’s hands no sooner than two or three days ago. He must know that fact, but perhaps because his heart was anxious, he kept giving me looks. 

‘Just wait.’ 

I held the letters I had received from the butler tightly and headed to my room as if escaping. I checked the letter from Celine first. She sent a long letter, thanking me and saying she was now very healthy and could even use magic.

And Liam, he sent a letter with exactly two words:

「Thank you.」

A large jewel was enclosed with it.

“To hear such a thing from Liam.” 

It seemed the rascal had matured a little.

And perhaps the letter sending rules were eased, as Ian was now consistently sending letters once a week. Recalling the contents of the letters Ian had sent me so far…

「How are you doing? I’ve injured my right arm. Although it’s bleeding profusely and fractured, I’m okay. Don’t worry too much.」

At the time, reading this letter made my heart drop, but I quickly realized it was a lie. Ian was right-handed, and the handwriting on the letter was his.

「It seems you really weren’t worried.

 

You’re right. The injury to my arm was a lie.

 

No matter how busy you are, not sending a single letter is disappointing.」

He also expressed disappointment that I wasn’t replying. And,

「So you’re really not sending a letter, huh. Just you wait until I see you.」

He even sent a letter with angry feelings, his handwriting scrawled.

“I wonder what he wrote this time.” 

Was it because we hadn’t seen each other for over half a year? I was now confident that even if I met Ian again, I wouldn’t feel any strange emotions. I chuckled and checked the letter Ian had sent today.

「We finally found the Red Dragon that was always avoiding us.

 

But it ran away again before we could attack.

 

It’s really strange. Why does it only run away and not attack?

 

But we’ll catch it soon. I’m sure of it this time.」

What evidence was Ian basing his certainty on? 

‘It’s a relief if he just doesn’t get hurt.’

I smiled and put the letter into the box. After Ian left, I got a box slightly larger than my hand. And I carefully stored every letter he sent during the subjugation.

“Should I have prepared a bigger box?” 

I muttered, alternating glances between the small box and the large container where I kept the letters Ian sent from the Academy, before shaking my head. Perhaps Ian might return before this small box was completely filled. I closed the lid of the box, stood up, and left the room. 

After walking out of the main building, a carriage was waiting. I was escorted by the coachman and got into the carriage.

Today was the day for a solo outing. 

Celine, who had recovered her health after taking the Blood Herb, invited me to her mansion. She said she originally wanted to visit me herself to express her gratitude, but since she still didn’t have enough strength, she was sorry to make me come to her. 

Meanwhile, I didn’t mind at all. 

‘Since I’m going anyway, I should glare at Celine’s parents and come back.’

While spacing out, I had already arrived at the Liveri County’s mansion. I paused just as I was about to get out of the carriage.

‘This is a bit much.’

As if they had been waiting for me, the Count’s servants were lined up in two rows from the garden to the main building’s entrance. I wondered if someone else was arriving, but no. The evidence was that their eyes were all fixed on me inside the carriage. The carriage door opened, and as I stepped out, they bowed deeply. It was such an excessive welcome that I momentarily mistook myself for a member of the Imperial family. They were so overwhelmingly polite that I couldn’t even look at them, and I walked to the main entrance vaguely looking at the air. When I was about halfway there, the door to the main building opened wide, and Celine appeared.

Walking toward me with a gentle smile, her cheeks had a subtle pink glow. It seemed that her improved health was not a lie. I felt relieved to see her footsteps were more vigorous than when I met her before. She reached me and wrapped her arms around my neck, pulling me into a hug, and I patted her back.

‘I know you’re grateful to me, but…’

It was a little embarrassing to make such a fuss in front of everyone. Fortunately, she quickly let go of me, held my hand tightly, and guided me into the mansion. The drawing room I followed her into greeted me with a large table completely filled with food. There were various dishes, including salads, fish, meat, fruits, and cake.

“Are there any other guests besides me?”

“No. Only you, my lady.”

“But there’s so much food…”

“I asked the maid at the Bellocchio Duchy in advance about what kind of food you like and prepared it.”

“What is that maid’s name?” 

What on earth did she say about my food preferences? Although I like everything without being picky, I can’t eat this much.

“I know this isn’t enough compared to the help you gave me. Still, I wanted to treat you to a meal first.”

“This is already too much. It’s more important for Miss Celine to recover her strength first.”

“My Lady, you are truly kind.” 

Tears welled up in her eyes. It really was too much. It seemed she didn’t know that Liam had already gifted me a large jewel as a reward.

I could feel their gratitude toward me from the food painstakingly set on the table. Anyway, since they showed such sincerity, it would be polite to accept. The moment I picked up my fork to start eating, the door opened, and Liam walked in.

“You’ve arrived.” 

I just vaguely nodded and chewed my salad. The next moment, as I picked up my knife to cut my steak, Liam spoke again.

“Have a good time. My parents aren’t here now.” 

He said his piece and then left again. That was a relief. I was worried he might brazenly join us at the table.

“Although he speaks so curtly, my brother is also grateful to you, My Lady.”

“I see.”

“So much so that he sent our parents to the territory a week early because you were coming.”

“It seems the former Count and Countess Liveri went on a trip?”

“It will soon be known that they left to enjoy a comfortable retirement, but in fact, they were driven out.” 

I chewed my steak slowly while watching Celine bow her head deeply.

“Even though I said I was fine, my brother must have been greatly disappointed with our parents.”

“Well, it’s understandable. By the way, Liam has changed a lot. Before, he was always hostile whenever he saw me.”

“He was immature when he was younger.” 

I certainly felt that Liam was better than when he was a child. I felt relieved to see him cherish Celine so much that he would drive out his own parents.

“But he went too far. He was hostile to me because I married Ian and took Ian’s side.” 

I still hadn’t forgotten the villainous things he had done to Ian and me.

“Huh? I don’t think that’s the case.” 

She shook her head and explained.

“Was it about five years ago? At a dance party, you got very angry at my brother, My Lady. He had kept that in his heart.” 

Five years ago was before I married Ian. That meant it was an event that started before the main game began, a complete unknown to me.

“I got angry?”

“As you might have noticed, my brother likes Marchioness Evra. He bravely went to talk to her for the first time, but you, My Lady, who was standing next to her, got furious.” 

Liam had been crushing on my sister longer than I expected. He must have disliked me even more because I, who was already annoying to him, married Ian, whom he detested. Perhaps the original Elicia knew instinctively that Liam was a hopeless jerk.

“I know your relationship with Marchioness Evra is special. Before you were married, you always got angry at people who approached Marchioness Evra. Regardless of gender.”

“…” 

Maybe Elicia just had a terrible personality. I deliberately lowered my head and pretended to focus on the salmon steak.

“My brother, who gave up on approaching Marchioness Evra naturally, pleaded with our parents to send a marriage proposal to the Marquis family. It fell through because the former Marquis Evra demanded unreasonable conditions.” 

I think Liam had mentioned this. That the former Count and Countess Liveri actually opposed it because my father proposed an absurd investment.

“Since my brother didn’t show any reaction after that, I thought he had given up, but I guess not.” 

He was courting my sister again after my father died. But I didn’t trust Liam. He just seemed to covet my sister’s position.

“Indeed. It was strange. Even though he looks like this, my brother is quite popular. He ignored all the confessions from other young ladies, so I thought he was seeing someone.” 

What? He was a surprisingly principled jerk? Suddenly feeling a pang in my heart, I stopped cutting with my right hand. 

‘What does my sister think of Liam?’

If there was a small chance that my sister was also interested in Liam but was rejecting him because of me… was I interfering? My sister had only recently found freedom after escaping my father’s oppression and violence. I suddenly wondered if I was oppressing her this time.

“Miss Celine. Excuse me, but I would like to have a private conversation with Liam.”

“I’ll go get my brother.”

“No, I’ll go. Where is Liam?” 

She stood up and guided me to where Liam was. She said she was relieved that Liam and I seemed to have become close enough to call each other by name so casually. It was the opposite, but since Celine looked happy, I didn’t bother correcting her. Leaving the drawing-room, we headed toward a door next to the stairs.

“Who is it?” 

When Celine knocked, Liam’s sharp voice was heard from inside.

“It’s me.” 

When Celine replied, there was a sound of busy movement inside, then the door was flung open, and Liam, holding the doorknob, looked down at us.

“Come in.” 

Liam’s voice toward Celine was quite gentle.

“My Lady wants to have a conversation. I’ll be in the drawing room.” 

She gave me a nod and left, and I twisted my body to avoid touching Liam as I entered. The room was his office, not his bedroom. There was a table and chairs in the center, and bookshelves lined the sides and back. It was about half the size of Duke Bellocchio’s office, but it seemed adequate for working. When I naturally sat across the table piled with documents, Liam sat down in his own chair.

“What is it?”

“Surely you weren’t writing a letter to my sister, were you?”

“…Why does it matter what you know?” 

Since he was quickly hiding a sheet of paper and muttering, it seemed I was right.

“Have a good time with my sister. Celine will be busy soon too.”

“Why Miss Celine?”

“Because as soon as she recovers her strength, she needs to prepare to inherit the title.” 

It seemed Liam intended to pass the Count title he had just inherited to Celine after all.

“What about you? Aren’t you upset?”

“It would be a lie to say I’m not. But this is Celine’s rightful share. I only survived because of Celine’s sacrifice.”

“Oh, you’ve finally grown up?”

“I don’t want to hear that from you. I’m busy, so hurry up and leave.”

“Alright, keep writing those letters diligently.” 

I ignored Liam’s denial and left. One thing I was certain of: the interferer blocking my sister and Liam’s path needed to step aside now.

I returned to the Duchy after having a small conversation over tea with Celine. And I wrote a letter to my sister. I asked if there was anyone she was interested in these days. I told her to meet him if he wasn’t too old or too ugly. Five days passed like that. While spending my days steadfastly under Duke Bellocchio’s watchful eyes, a letter arrived. 

“Is she finally meeting Liam?” 

Thinking it was my sister, I tore it open without even checking the name on the envelope.

“Oh…” 

It was a very short letter, but the moment I saw it, my heart seemed to drop.

「I miss you.」

It was Ian’s letter. Although it was only three words, it felt like he had earnestly compressed his true feelings into it. 

‘This is not…’

It’s definitely not excitement or any such feeling. It’s just that I’m unfamiliar with Ian putting such an embarrassing thing in a letter. The subjugation must be really hard, I guess.

‘Should I just throw it away?’

I debated, carefully folding the letter Ian sent. It was better to get rid of anything that caused strange feelings. 

“No, never mind.” 

If I actually threw this letter away, wouldn’t that be admitting that I still harbored strange feelings for Ian? I also felt like I was losing to this game.

“If I throw it away for no reason, the maids might misunderstand.” 

Tearing up a sentimental letter saying ‘I miss you’ would only fuel rumors of a marital rift. I put the three worded letter into the box where Ian’s letters were stored. 

“It seems there’s no space left now.” 

The box was too small. It was completely full before Ian even returned. At the time, I thought it would be enough since Ian was only sending one letter a month…

“Why doesn’t he just catch the Red Dragon quickly instead of diligently sending letters?” 

I blamed Ian unnecessarily. I was just flustered because the letter was sentimental, but I would be fine when I actually saw him. I had been too busy dealing with the affairs of those around me to spend much time thinking about Ian. As time passed, my strange feelings had also mostly sorted themselves out. While I was smiling, the door was flung open with a knock.