Chapter 9

I focused all my spirit on a single point on the target.

 

As I released the taut bowstring, the arrow flew like a bolt of lightning and struck home.

 

Thwack!

 

“Wow! Another bullseye?”

 

I hopped up and down on the spot, cheering.

 

Three arrows were all clustered right in the dead center of the target.

 

Even though I was the one who shot them, I couldn’t believe it. Did I actually have a talent for archery?

 

In reality, I had terrible stamina, and the only “exercise” I ever did was breathing.

 

‘The steady special training paid off! It was worth practicing archery in the backyard every day as soon as I arrived at the library.’

 

Miraculously, I could see my stamina growing stronger and my archery skills improving exponentially as time went on. Was this some kind of “possession buff”?

 

“Librarian, a gift has arrived.”

 

Hearing a chirpy, youthful voice, I turned around to see Nella, the messenger girl for the Royal Library.

 

Nella was clutching a large basket of lilies with both hands. Her small forehead was beaded with sweat, likely from the effort of carrying the heavy basket all this way.

 

I quickly took the basket from her and wiped her sweat with my sleeve.

 

“Nella, you worked so hard carrying this from the main gate.”

 

“Oh, no. I even got paid a delivery fee. Also, these were sent by Lady Rubel again.”

 

It was another gift of gratitude from Freesia.

 

Almost every day, she sent flower baskets, high-end desserts, or expensive perfumes along with a letter.

 

‘Aren’t these kinds of gift offensives supposed to be for the male lead? You’ve got the wrong address, female lead.’

 

I wondered if the fact that I took the fan hit for her left Freesia with deep guilt.

 

The wound on my cheek had already healed cleanly, after all.

 

“Oh, the lady at the cafeteria said there are plenty of sandwiches left today. If you go and ask, she’ll give you some.”

 

Nella’s face lit up.

 

“Really? My grandmother and younger brother will love that.”

 

Nella lived in the back alleys of the capital with her grandmother and little brother.

 

Madam Marian had taken pity on the young breadwinner and given her odd jobs at the Royal Library.

 

She was mainly tasked with delivering letters and packages, and Nella worked hard, utilizing her cleverness and nimble movements.

 

Finding her admirable, I wanted to help, so I had been secretly covering her meal costs. Of course, I did it quietly through the library’s head chef so as not to hurt the child’s pride.

 

“Thank you as always, Librarian Erika.”

 

Nella gave a polite bow and ran toward the cafeteria like a flying squirrel.

 

While I watched her retreat with a warm heart, a clear voice rang out from behind me.

 

“Sister Erika!”

 

As soon as I heard that nostalgic voice, a smile spread across my face.

 

If God were to paint an angel he cherished, would it look like this?

 

Golden hair catching the sunlight and eyes reflecting a clear lake sparkled. Topped off with a lovely smile that made everyone who saw it happy.

 

Michael leapt into my arms.

 

“Sister Erika, I missed you!”

 

I spread my arms wide and hugged Michael, who felt like a small, fluffy lamb.

 

It felt like meeting my own younger brother after a long time, and my heart felt full.

 

“It’s so good to see you, Lord Michael. You’ve become much more gallant since I last saw you.”

 

Even though I knew it might be considered rude, I smiled and stroked Michael’s curly hair. Michael pouted his tiny lips.

 

“I’ll have you know I’ve grown a lot taller.”

 

I suppressed the urge to burst out laughing.

 

In his letters, he always habitually emphasized at the end that he had grown taller.

 

Michael and I had been exchanging letters once every three days.

 

Feeling bad for him staying all alone in the vast Duke’s manor, I often sent along books he might enjoy reading.

 

“Lady Erika, have you been well?”

 

Gilbert, who was escorting Michael, offered a formal greeting. His attitude was disciplined, fitting for a knight, but he couldn’t hide the genuine delight in his voice.

 

“Yes. Have you been well too, Sir Gilbert? I assume the Shadow Knights are doing fine as well?”

 

Gilbert felt like a clumsy but kindhearted older brother, so I felt comfortable even after a long hiatus.

 

Recently, as Calix became busy with royal affairs, the Shadow Knights stopped guarding the Royal Library, so I hadn’t had a chance to see them. That made seeing him even more pleasant.

 

“Ugh, don’t even get me started.”

 

Gilbert scratched the back of his head and let out a sigh.

 

Come to think of it, his face looked noticeably haggard, and his armor was covered in dirt as if he had just come from a battlefield.

 

“Actually, I’ve been feeling half-dead lately because of participating in the jousting tournament every day.”

 

“A jousting tournament?”

 

Just as I was about to ask what that was, Michael cleared his throat and cut into the conversation.

 

The pampered child’s demeanor vanished; he squared his shoulders and looked at me with a solemn attitude.

 

The crest of the Reinhardt family was embroidered near the chest of his white uniform, and the gold tassels on his epaulettes shined.

 

He looked every bit the dignified future successor of a Ducal house.

 

“The reason for my visit today is to deliver this to Lady Diel as the Young Lord of the Reinhardt family.”

 

Michael formally held out an envelope sealed with the Ducal family’s signet.

 

“This is an invitation from Grand Duke Reinhardt. He has invited Lady Diel to the jousting tournament.”

 

‘Come to think of it, Rose was singing about wanting to go to the tournament earlier, wasn’t she?’

 

I took the invitation in both hands almost reflexively.

 

The moment I touched the high-quality envelope, the contents of the original novel naturally came to mind.

 

“Freesia. I will tie the handkerchief you gave me to the tip of my lance, fight with all my might to protect your honor, and lay the glory of victory at your feet.”

 

In the original story, Calix participated in the jousting tournament personally to defend Freesia’s honor. She tied her handkerchief to his spear, praying for the hero’s safe return.

 

Carrying the token of his lover on his lance, Calix struck down every challenger and eventually became the final victor.

 

Calix knelt at Freesia’s feet and gladly offered her the glory of victory.

 

The jousting tournament was the stage where the two officially announced their relationship as lovers—a romantic event akin to the sublime love between a lady and a knight in chivalric literature.

 

Originally, this invitation should have gone to Freesia.

 

“Oh dear, what should I do? I’m so busy today that I can’t attend…”

 

Just as I was about to rush a refusal, Michael cut me off with a refreshing smile.

 

“Don’t worry, sister. Director William said it was alright for you to attend.”

 

“No, still, there’s a lot of work to process…”

 

Michael stared at me intently with his big, adorable, teary eyes.

 

An “adorable kitten” gaze attack… honestly, this is cheating.

 

“Can’t you come just for me? It’s my first time going, so I really want you to be there.”

 

“Ah, so it’s your first time too, Young Lord.”

 

“Yes. My brother has never participated in a jousting tournament before. I don’t know what caused his change of heart, but he joined this time. I really want to see him fight magnificently.”

 

Then Gilbert pleaded with me with a look of desperation, looking like a drowning man, “If I cannot bring the Lady with me, I will have to live on the training grounds for a month. Please consider it as saving a knight’s life and attend.”

 

I gripped the invitation and hesitated until the very end.

 

Ever since I realized my role was that of a minor villainess, I had set a goal: “Live quietly in the library.” I was practicing a sort of “social distancing” for the sake of the peace and order of Ruberia.

 

However, Gilbert’s decisive final word was what got me onto the carriage.

 

“In this tournament, the Grand Duke is scheduled to compete against the Schpern House in the final round.”

 

 

***

 

 

The streets of the capital, Artemia, were filled with vitality and an air of excitement.

 

People with faces flushed from excitement and anticipation lined up toward the jousting grounds.

 

“Is the jousting tournament held often?”

 

At my question, Michael, who was looking at the scenery outside the window, replied with a smile.

 

“It’s being held for the first time in several years. For a while, there was no room for such tournaments because of the war with the monsters.”

 

‘Aha, so that’s why everyone is so excited.’

 

I nodded with a complex heart.

 

Soon, the carriage arrived at the destination.

 

In front of the tournament grounds, carriages of nobles from all over the continent were parked, leaving almost no room to pass.

 

Beneath the VIP seats, which were built on a particularly high platform, tents were set up for the participants.

 

In front of the tents, knights preparing for the match and their squires were busy checking weaponry and inspecting the horses.

 

Along the wooden fences surrounding the area, crowds gathered like clouds, waiting for the match with faces full of anticipation.

 

People were placing bets on who the best knight of the year would be or admiring the equipment such as the knights’ ornaments, horses, and lances.

 

A curious boy lingered near the knights only to be scolded by a squire and chased away.

 

In the center, colorful flags painted with the crests of the participating knights were hoisted high, fluttering powerfully.

 

Among them, the flag embroidered with the lion crest of the Reinhardt House was visible.

 

Michael, looking at the flag with a proud face, continued the explanation he had briefly paused.

 

“The jousting tournament is a match where the honor of the knighthood is at stake. It lasts for three days in a tournament style, with the finals held on the last day. And today is the final day.”

 

“Then has the Grand Duke been competing continuously since the start date?”

 

My heart felt like it was sinking.

 

Victory or defeat didn’t matter. My first concern was whether he was alright.

 

Michael spoke calmly as if to wash away my worries.

 

“According to the report from the Shadow Knights, Brother has been on a winning streak and hasn’t been injured.”

 

“That’s a huge relief.”

 

I unknowingly clutched my chest and let out a sigh of relief.

 

Michael looked at me with a quiet gaze. The eyes of the boy, who usually seemed so bright, held a depth that didn’t match his age.

 

“Brother used to dislike jousting tournaments, saying they were used as entertainment for nobles. He said a knight’s reputation is earned through battle. But this time, he said he’s participating to protect the honor of someone precious to him.”

 

‘Could it be that Calix is participating to protect my honor? To take revenge for the fan hit from Eliade?’

 

If that were the case, I wasn’t happy at all. The male lead should just focus on the female lead.

 

“Lady Diel, shall we head up to the platform? Take my hand.”

 

Michael reached out his hand to escort me like a dignified gentleman. I gladly gave my hand to the wonderful little gentleman.

 

“It is an honor, Young Lord.”

 

We climbed to the VIP seats hand in hand.

 

Around the platform, the flags hanging from the spears of each house billowed like waves.

 

A luxurious sunshade made of gold tapestry created a wide shade. Underneath, a red carpet was laid out, reminiscent of a massive banquet hall.

 

High-ranking nobles, brilliantly adorned ladies, and beautiful young misses were busy fluttering their fans while watching the tournament grounds with eyes full of anticipation.

 

In the center of the VIP area, a sophisticated chair with ornate gold decorations was waiting for its owner.

 

As my gaze shifted there, Michael whispered to me.

 

“His Royal Highness the Crown Prince will be attending today’s final event. Originally, His Majesty the King was supposed to come, but he is absent due to poor health.”

 

As we took our seats, the attention of the noblewomen shifted toward us.

 

They smiled at Michael with eyes full of affection and adoration.

 

“Oh my, that is the Young Lord of the Reinhardt House.”

 

“How can he be so dignified and lovely?”

 

“I heard the Grand Duke dotes on his younger brother, and I can see why.”

 

The young ladies covered their mouths with their fans and chattered like larks, pouring out praises for Michael.

 

Fortunately, no one paid attention to me standing next to Michael. I probably looked like an escorting maid.

 

‘I’m glad I wore the librarian uniform.’

 

When I told Rose I was invited to the jousting tournament, she was furious.

 

“Unbelievable! Going to the tournament in that outfit! Put on my dress right now.”

 

“I thought you’d scold me for going to play instead of working.”

 

“Is work important right now? Do you not know what a jousting tournament means?”

 

“Not really.”

 

“A jousting tournament is a sublime battlefield where knights fight for the honor of the one they love! Therefore, an invited guest must cheer for the knights who risk their lives for them in the most beautiful and perfect form. That is the most important duty!”

 

Rose shouted like an orator, her fists clenched.

 

Her speech was moving and her momentum was so high it was even a little scary.

 

Though I did manage to run away quickly while Rose was busy picking out a dress.

 

‘The jousting tournament is the critical moment where Grand Duke Calix and Freesia officially become a couple. I am not the protagonist.’

 

Michael checked the platform stairs and then whispered to me.

 

“There come Young Lord Franz and his sister, Princess Eliade, of the Schpern House.”

 

The area below became noisy.

 

Amidst a grand procession with dozens of attendants, Young Lord Franz and Eliade were coming up with arrogant expressions.

 

At the appearance of the Schpern siblings, the nobles on the platform stood up to greet and welcome them.

 

The sight of the beautiful siblings entering side-by-side was as perfect as a painting.

 

Franz, wearing a charming purple frock coat, and Eliade, adorned in a brilliant gold dress, greeted the nobles elegantly.

 

Eliade, in particular, already had a triumphant expression as if she were the goddess of victory herself.

 

‘Let’s just look at other nobles.’

 

As I shrugged and turned my eyes, Michael occasionally informed me of the titles and names of the high-ranking nobles.

 

I knew the Young Lord was knowledgeable and intelligent, but I was surprised anew. To know the socialite figures so well while staying only in the Duke’s manor.

 

“Lord Michael, how do you know all the details about the nobles?”

 

Michael, who had been observing the nobles closely, turned back with a brilliant smile.

 

“As a member of a Ducal house, one should know at least this much. Not only do I have information on all the nobles in Ruberia, but I also grasp the private secrets of several. Someday, I might be able to use them as negotiation cards.”

 

To talk about secrets and negotiation with such a bright face.

 

‘My lovely young master… please don’t let this turn into a ‘actually, he was a mastermind’ plot.’

 

I held Michael’s soft hand tightly and pleaded earnestly.

 

“Young Lord, please. Don’t fall into the darkness and just grow up as you are now.”

 

“Huh? Sister, what do you mean…?”

 

I barely suppressed the urge to pull Michael, who had widened his eyes in confusion, into a hug.

 

Just then, a dark shadow fell over my head.

 

The thick scent of roses and a soprano voice pierced my nose and ears in turn.

 

“Oh my, it’s the Royal Library’s librarian. Did you come here to find a checked-out book?”

 

‘Please, can’t you just pretend you don’t know me, Eliade?’

 

Irritation bubbled up, and my brow furrowed again.

 

Looking back, Eliade was glaring at me sharply while fluttering her fan. The young ladies following her were laughing while scanning me from head to toe.

 

“My, even being an honorary librarian must be so difficult. Hoho.”

 

Eliade wore a bright, villainous smile. I forced a faint smile onto my lips as well.

 

‘Why do you have to bother me when I’m being quiet? I’m the type of person who sincerely responds to every challenge.’

 

Maintaining my smile, I approached Eliade and whispered.

 

“If there were an event for fan throwing, the Schpern young lady would surely win. What a pity.”

 

Her finely made-up face twitched. While it felt subtlely cathartic, a hint of regret soon followed.

 

‘Oops, I did it again. I was going to stay quiet like a sack of barley.’

 

Noticing the unusual atmosphere between Eliade and me, Michael stepped forward.

 

“Lady Schpern, it is my first time greeting you. I am Michael of the Reinhardt House.”

 

Eliade’s sharp gaze softened into a gentle eye-smile.

 

“Oh my, Lord Michael. When did you grow up to be so handsome? How has your health been lately?”

 

“Yes. Thanks to your concern, Lady, I have been doing well without any issues.”

 

With his golden hair swaying, the angel-like, pale Michael replied with a beaming smile.

 

At his dazzlingly lovely appearance, the surrounding young ladies gasped in admiration.

 

Even Eliade, the tyrant of the social world, seemed to have fallen for Michael’s loveliness and smiled genuinely.

 

“Did you come to cheer for Grand Duke Reinhardt, Lord Michael?”

 

“Yes. I came with my benefactor to cheer for Brother.”

 

“Oh my, a benefactor?”

 

When Eliade asked back with interest, Michael formally introduced me, who was standing beside him.

 

“This is Lady Diel, who saved me from the carriage accident last time. She is the benefactor of our house.”

 

A wave of surprise and admiration passed through the young ladies.

 

Eliade’s expression soured rapidly, but her stiff lips did not lose their elegance. Though her eyes weren’t smiling as she glared at me.

 

‘Yikes, scary.’

 

“I never imagined. To think Lady Diel had a connection with the Reinhardt House. Well then, Lord Michael, have an enjoyable viewing.”

 

‘As expected, she’s a lady who is quick to judge gains and losses.’

 

The moment she found out I was Calix’s benefactor, her attitude shifted. She’ll do well in social life.

 

Eliade returned to her seat with her group of followers.

 

I waved my hand to clear the dust stirred up by her billowing dress.

 

If I could, I wanted to throw salt after her.

 

“Phew, a storm just passed by.”

 

“Sister, did something happen with Lady Schpern?”

 

“What do you mean ‘something’? It was just a minor difference of opinion. Don’t worry.”

 

I acted as if it were nothing, but Michael was already not listening to my words.

 

“Hmm.”

 

The boy had his hand on his chin and was muttering to himself with a face deep in thought.

 

That appearance was chillingly similar to Calix. Blood really doesn’t lie.

 

“So that’s why Brother declared he would annihilate the Schpern Ducal Knights to win. For sister’s honor… As expected of Brother.”

 

“Excuse me, Young Lord? You are making a huge misunderstanding right now.”

 

Just as I was trying to correct Michael’s wrong judgment, I suddenly felt an intense and persistent gaze.

 

It was like the gaze of a venomous spider waiting leisurely after spinning its web.

 

Beyond the nobles, I locked eyes with Young Lord Franz, who was sitting loftily in the high seat.

 

He looked at me silently with deep, captivating purple eyes, and then the corners of his mouth tilted up as if he were amused.

 

When he bowed elegantly to acknowledge me, my face immediately crinkled into a sour expression.

 

‘Since when were we on such terms that we had to greet each other from afar? Please, even if we meet in hell, let’s pretend we don’t know each other.’

 

“Erika!”

 

The refreshing voice that changed the atmosphere made me relax my expression.

 

Like a gentle spring rain falling on a lush meadow, a voice called me. It was Freesia.

 

“I’m so happy to see you here.”

 

She approached with a fluttering gait, her face flushed as if meeting a long-lost lover.

 

Freesia wore a violet dress that resembled violets. Her transparent skin and shimmering platinum-blonde hair were well-complemented by the color, making her look like a fairy that had descended to earth.

 

At Freesia’s appearance, the nobles’ attention was instantly focused.

 

Regardless of age or gender, they were lost in admiration and surprise. Some even let out sighs while clutching their hearts.

 

‘Truly the sinful female lead.’

 

“Lady Rubel. Hello. I’ve heard much about you from my aunt, Countess Demeter.”

 

As Michael greeted her politely, Freesia responded with a warm gaze.

 

“Oh my, you must be Young Lord Michael. It is my first time meeting you. To think you have grown so wonderfully; the future of the Reinhardt House is promising.”

 

The sight of the beautiful boy and the beautiful woman smiling at each other was brilliant in itself and heartwarming.

 

‘A meeting of such beautiful and pure beings. This is what healing is.’

 

Freesia, sitting next to me, couldn’t hide her joy and seemed as excited as a young girl.

 

“I’m so happy to be able to watch the jousting tournament with a friend. I’ve been lonely being by myself.”

 

She lowered her head piteously. For a moment, I stared blankly at the scene, which looked like a noble lily blooming.

 

‘That’s because you’re so inhumanely pretty, Freesia. I can’t even think of us as the same species.’

 

I breathed a sigh of relief inwardly.

 

‘I’m glad Freesia arrived just in time.’

 

In fact, I had checked with Michael in advance to make sure Freesia was attending.

 

According to the original story, Calix would come directly to the VIP seats before the match. And he would ask Freesia to tie a handkerchief to his lance.

 

I cautiously asked her.

 

“I heard that in a jousting tournament, a lady gives a handkerchief to a knight as a token. Which gentleman do you plan to give yours to, Freesia?”

 

“I’ve already given it.”

 

“What? To whom?”

 

“I sent it to the knight of our Count’s house through a servant.”

 

“Why? Isn’t a token supposed to be given to a knight you admire?”

 

I was so surprised that I spoke loudly without realizing it.

 

She covered her mouth slightly and chuckled.

 

“That is the case when your beloved lover is a knight. According to custom, one gives a handkerchief to the knight belonging to their own house. Because the knight fights for the honor of the family.”

 

‘Ah, I’m screwed. My perfect plan has crumbled. I was planning to secretly tie a handkerchief with Freesia’s initials to Calix’s spear!’

 

As I chewed my thumb in contemplation, I pricked up my ears at a name heard from the back seat.

 

“Are you absolutely sure? There’s no handkerchief on Grand Duke Reinhardt’s spear?”

 

Looking back slightly, I saw two young ladies chatting while waving their fans.

 

I focused on their conversation.

 

“I saw it clearly with my own two eyes. During the previous matches, there was no handkerchief on the Grand Duke’s spear.”

 

“What a waste! If I had known, I would have given him my handkerchief!”

 

“Oh, that’s like putting a bell on a cat’s neck. There have already been ladies who tried.”

 

“Really? They gave the token to the Grand Duke directly?”

 

“A person in love is brave. They went to the waiting room and delivered it personally.”

 

“My goodness, how courageous. So, what happened to those ladies?”

 

“He glared at them with such terrifying eyes that they ran away crying. The problem is, they weren’t the only ones.”

 

“Unbelievable, he truly sees women as if they were stones. I wonder if there’s a woman who can capture his heart?”

 

The conversation between the two ladies ended with a deep and mournful sigh.

 

I was so distracted by eavesdropping on them that I didn’t even realize Michael was talking to me.

 

“Sister, about the token…”

 

The moment I belatedly realized Michael’s words, a cheerful trumpet sounded, and the court aide shouted loudly.

 

“Presenting the first heir to the throne of the Kingdom of Ruberia, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Ludwig von Bismarck!”

 

At the appearance of the Crown Prince, all the nobles on the platform rose as one.

 

Ludwig, appearing in a red uniform embroidered with a brilliant gold eagle crest and fluttering a dark blue cloak, waved his hand leisurely.

 

The nobles bowed their heads reverently toward the future king. Franz also bowed politely to the Crown Prince.

 

The figure of a future leader of a rebel force was nowhere to be seen.

 

As the Crown Prince headed for the prepared seat of honor, Franz’s gaze changed for an instant.

 

It was a fleeting emotion that burned out like a spark, but it was certain.

 

Ever since I read that Erika had conspired with the rebel forces, I had been curious.

 

Why did Young Lord Franz start a rebellion?

 

The Schpern family already had immense power, wealth, and honor.

 

But his gaze as he looked at the Crown Prince now…

 

It was filled with a greed that seemed capable of swallowing everything.

 

‘Could it be he’s even aiming for the throne?’

 

Perhaps because I stared at Franz too overtly, our eyes met.

 

The purple eyes that had been smoldering calmly regained their composure with startling speed.

 

Returning to the leisurely and relaxed eyes of a typical noble.

 

I quickly lowered my head like a person caught stealing.

 

‘To have our eyes meet twice already… it’s definitely an unlucky day!’

 

“His Royal Highness Crown Prince Ludwig is proceeding. Please clear the way.”

 

The court aide shouted as he led the way. Nobles vied to offer greetings to the Crown Prince with admiration and flattery.

 

With every step he took, he patted the shoulders of nobles or burst into hearty laughter while sharing short conversations.

 

He was busy bestowing charming smiles and hand kisses upon the noblewomen and young ladies.

 

‘Can’t he just pass by quickly? Why is it taking so long? Is this a Hollywood awards show red carpet?’

 

I tried my best to avoid the Crown Prince’s eye by keeping my head down.

 

It was the first time I had seen him since he had requested a dedicated librarian at the library.

 

I had a premonition, close to a certainty, that the moment we met, things would get exhausting.

 

A pair of flashy leather shoes stopped in front of me as I looked down at the floor.

 

‘Damn it.’

 

“Librarian Erika, your courtesy is excessive today. Why don’t you lift your head?”

 

I was foolish to think I could hide.

 

I momentarily forgot that I had a remarkably handsome boy and a beautiful woman on either side of me.

 

I let out a short sigh and straightened my posture.

 

“It is an honor to see Your Royal Highness the Crown Prince.”

 

Michael and Freesia bowed their heads politely in the court etiquette. Ludwig welcomed the two with a benevolent expression.

 

“Young Lord Michael and Lady Rubel have come as well. I hope you enjoy the match today.”

 

The Crown Prince turned his gaze toward me and smiled brightly.

 

“By the way, Librarian Erika, did you bring the token?”

 

‘What token? Did you leave one with me, Crown Prince?’

 

Ludwig laughed playfully.

 

“To whom will you give it? If I had known you were coming, I would have participated in the jousting tournament myself.”

 

“There is no one to give it to. I am merely a spectator, Your Highness.”

 

When I replied indifferently, he shook his head like a stage actor, appearing regretful.

 

“What a heartless woman. The heart of a loyal knight must ache. To risk one’s life and fight for a lady’s honor, yet not receive a single token.”

 

‘What, even the Crown Prince knew Calix was fighting for me? This is the worst. Since this big-mouthed Crown Prince knows, it’s only a matter of time before the entire kingdom knows.’

 

“Now that I think about it, I haven’t seen you in a while either.”

 

Ludwig turned his gaze to Michael and gently stroked his hair. It was a familiar action, as if he were treating his own younger brother.

 

“Michael, watch your brother’s match closely and learn. That is the path you are to follow in the future.”

 

“I will keep that in mind, Your Highness.”

 

Michael replied spiritedly. His face showed pride for his brother.

 

“Well then, let’s begin.”

 

As Ludwig sat in the seat of honor, the trumpet sounded loudly and highly once again.

 

Prior to starting the jousting match, the participants revealed themselves before the audience.

 

Knights armed in brilliant armor and helmets, holding shields painted with their house crests, rode around the spectators’ seats. The crowd gave them unreserved cheers.

 

Michael explained to me in detail as he watched.

 

“Only the elite knights of a house participate in the jousting tournament. It is a match so honorable that the winner is granted a title of nobility.”

 

“The Shadow Knights must have participated too?”

 

“Yes. All of them passed the preliminaries. Brother is participating in the final match as the representative.”

 

The knights proudly held their lances high toward the sky. Handkerchiefs, clearly meant as tokens, fluttered in the wind at the tips.

 

It was an act of sending praise to those who supported them and wishing for victory.

 

Just then, the final knight appeared on the tournament grounds.

 

He was a knight in a silver helmet sitting atop a white horse, fully armed.

 

His mere presence exuded noble spirit and powerful intimidation, and the shield he held was engraved with a lion crest.

 

It was Grand Duke Calix of the Reinhardt House.

 

A wave of excitement and admiration rippled through the crowd. Almost simultaneously, a heated roar filled the tournament grounds.

 

“For the glory of Reinhardt!”

 

“To the Knight of the Lion, Grand Duke Calix, victory!”

 

Even the knights of other houses looked up to Calix with eyes full of infinite respect.

 

Suddenly curious about Franz’s reaction, I stole a glance.

 

Among the nobles wishing for the hero’s victory with eyes full of expectation, he alone sat loftily.

 

The gaze with which he watched Calix was calm, but his white, thin hands were gripping the armrests of the chair as if he were about to crush them.

 

Calix’s horse slowly approached the platform. Even through his helmet, his sharp gaze pierced through as he scanned the young ladies sitting in the VIP section.

 

Every eye in the crowd was fixed on the tip of his lance.

 

He slowly raised the weapon high toward the sky. At its sharp tip, a handkerchief fluttered like the wing of a bird.

 

For some reason, my heart dropped.

 

‘Who on earth gave him that handkerchief?’

 

A wave of shock and surprise swept through the ladies. Everyone wore expressions of sheer disbelief.

 

Before the confusion could settle, Calix nudged his horse forward and came to a halt right in front of me.

 

As he lifted the visor of his silver helmet, his brilliantly shining blue eyes fixed intently on me.

 

Only then was I able to get a close look at the handkerchief tied to his lance.

 

E. D.

 

A handkerchief embroidered with Erika’s initials.

 

It was the very same one I had used to wipe Michael’s sweat when he collapsed back when I went to find the magic book. I thought I had lost it after that—how did it end up there?

 

At that moment, our eyes met.

 

The roar of the crowd and the heat of the stadium seemed to vanish in an instant.

 

It was just him and me. As it always had been.

 

His ragged breathing and my trembling breath became one. His powerful heartbeat and my chaotic one intertwined.

 

The brave knight’s lance pointed accurately toward my heart. Calix declared to me with his eyes: I will surely win. For you.

 

I bit my lip hard enough to bruise, trying to hold back the tears.

 

I gripped the armrests of my chair tightly, fearing I might leap from the platform and fly into his arms.

 

‘How can your heart always point toward me so unwaveringly? When I am always so busy running away from you.’

 

“Oh my, was the owner of the handkerchief Lady Rubel?”

 

“Goodness. Did Lady Rubel give the Grand Duke a token…?”

 

The voices of the young ladies, shouting in a fuss, pelted my ears like stones.

 

The noisy clamor of the stadium rushed back in like a massive tide.

 

There were people whispering with expressions full of jealousy and envy, and others sighing in regret.

 

Freesia, the person they were talking about, looked flustered and kept her lovely lips tightly shut. Her amethyst-like eyes, tucked under long lashes, quietly turned toward Calix.

 

I rubbed my eyes and forced my train of thought to shift, ignoring the stinging pain in my chest.

 

‘Is this divine intervention? It’s actually a relief that the nobles mistook Calix’s lady for Freesia. Either way, things are flowing somewhat similarly to the original story, right?’

 

Calix returned to the center of the platform where the knights were gathered.

 

Only then did Michael come into my view. The boy’s small, rosy lips parted several times as if to speak, but he eventually pressed them firmly together.

 

His expression had darkened even further, making me worry if he was feeling unwell.

 

“What is the matter?”

 

“Lady Diel, when I grow up and compete in a jousting tournament… will you give me a token too?”

 

What came back was an unexpected question.

 

Though, it felt like the way he addressed me had changed. Regardless, I would be the first to absolutely oppose this lovely and fragile Young Lord participating in a terrifying jousting match.

 

I felt like I understood the heartbreaking feeling of a mother sending her son off to the army.

 

“Of course. Even if other beautiful ladies offer you handkerchiefs, you must promise to accept only mine, okay?”

 

Michael’s pale face flushed like a peach.

 

To see him nod so firmly with his lips tightly set!

 

He was so adorable I wanted to snatch him up in a hug, but I had to endure it by pinching the back of my hand.

 

Braaaa-p!

 

Just then, as the herald blew the trumpet vigorously, the crowd’s attention moved to the main stage.

 

Crown Prince Ludwig stood up from his seat and majestically raised both arms.

 

The noisy murmuring fell silent in an instant. Everyone looked up at the “Young Sun of Ruberia.”

 

The four knights lined up below the platform bowed their heads deeply to the Crown Prince.

 

Looking out over his people, the Crown Prince shouted with a solemn and powerful voice: “I declare the opening of today’s jousting tournament and pray for the eternal prosperity and blessing of Ruberia! Brave knights of Ruberia, fight honorably with holy courage and win!”

 

As the Crown Prince finished his address, the voices of the people joined together, blanketing the stadium.

 

“For the eternal prosperity and blessing of Ruberia!”

 

“For His Great Majesty and His Royal Highness!”

 

“For the victory of the brave knights!”

 

Exited by the thunderous cheering, the horses reared up on their hind legs.

 

The faces of the four knights awaiting the final battle showed a fierce tension. They possessed the resolve of men standing on the brink of war.

 

My gaze ended up fixed on Calix in his silver helmet.

 

I don’t believe in God, but at this moment, I wanted to pray fervently.

 

‘I don’t care if you become a hero; just please return safely.’

 

The first two knights in the order finished their preparations, mounted on horses on opposite sides and protected by their shields.

 

The first match was a duel between the Reinhardt House and the Lanienne House.

 

“Waaaaaa!”

 

As Calix took his stance, a shower of enthusiastic cheering poured down.

 

The nobles also focused on the Duke’s battle, as he exuded a brave energy like a silver lion.

 

Braaaa-p!

 

The sound of the trumpet announcing the start cut through the air.

 

Both sides simultaneously spurred their horses and charged forward.

 

Just before the collision, both knights aimed their lances at the opponent’s shield.

 

CRASH!

 

Calix’s lance struck the opponent’s shield with pinpoint accuracy. Under the impact, the opposing knight was knocked off his horse with almost ridiculous ease.

 

In the thick cloud of dust, a few seconds of silence hung over the stadium.

 

Then, a roar that shook the entire arena erupted.

 

“It’s a victory for the Reinhardt House!”

 

“Long live Grand Duke Calix!!”

 

Lifting his visor, Calix greeted the fallen knight and then turned his horse toward the waiting area.

 

Amidst the chanting, cheering, and screaming of countless people, I clasped my hands together and thanked the heavens.

 

‘It’s such a relief he wasn’t hurt. I thought my heart would stop the moment the spear and shield collided.’

 

Michael also watched with clenched fists and a tense face before letting out a sigh of relief.

 

“Brother won. I’m so glad.”

 

“Indeed. The Grand Duke’s skills are truly magnificent. Still, if I have to watch that twice, I won’t live a full life.”

 

Servants carried out the knight who had fallen from the horse. A short break followed to prepare for the next match.

 

“Wasn’t that match just wonderful?”

 

I spoke warmly to Freesia next to me to calm my trembling heart.

 

But there was no answer. Or rather, it was more accurate to say she wasn’t in a state to answer.

 

Freesia had her eyes squeezed shut and was trembling like a frightened deer. She looked so pitiful.

 

“Freesia, the match is over. Grand Duke Calix won.”

 

Only then did she cautiously open her large eyes.

 

“Really? The Grand Duke is truly amazing.”

 

She then smiled brightly, like someone who had set down a heavy burden.

 

Her face turned slightly red, perhaps embarrassed that she had kept her eyes closed.

 

“I was so worried the Grand Duke might get hurt that I unknowingly closed my eyes.”

 

I cupped Freesia’s delicate hand and spoke kindly.

 

“It’s alright. It is a competition between knights fighting for honor. Please support and cheer for him with all your heart. With a smile from you, Freesia, any knight would gladly fight to the death.”

 

She nodded firmly, seemingly encouraged by my words.

 

“Thank you, Erika. I will watch the next match until the end and pray for his good fortune.”

 

We held hands tightly and watched the next match.

 

The second match was a battle between the knights of the Schpern House and the Lawrence House.

 

Both knights’ lances struck the opponent’s shield, but only the lances shattered; neither was unhorsed.

 

As expected of elite knights, it was a neck-and-neck battle that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

 

Having replaced their lances, the two knights resumed the match. The Schpern knight aimed his lance at the opponent’s chest.

 

The opposing knight rushed to block, but the lance had already struck his chest.

 

“Argh!”

 

With a final cry, the Lawrence knight fell from his horse and rolled on the ground. Blood began to seep through the gaps in his armor.

 

‘Wait, he aimed for the chest on purpose instead of the shield?’

 

I reflexively turned my head and glared at Franz.

 

As if certain of victory, Franz was already receiving congratulations from his followers. Surrounded by them, he was smiling nonchalantly.

 

‘What? Wasn’t that a foul?’

 

“Ah!”

 

Voices of worry and concern erupted from the spectator stands. I turned my gaze back to the arena.

 

The Schpern knight didn’t care that his opponent was writhing in pain and bleeding. He even raised his lance triumphantly, celebrating his win.

 

The only ones cheering for this dishonorable victory were Franz, Eliade, and their followers.

 

“The wound on that knight looks serious; will he be okay?”

 

Freesia’s voice trembled thinly, perhaps shocked by the sight of blood.

 

Michael narrowed his eyes and watched the Schpern knight closely.

 

“He targeted the chest intentionally. I saw him aiming for the chest, not the shield, when he leveled his lance. It was to completely defeat his opponent.”

 

“But that’s a foul! To fight in such a cowardly way… it’s not knightly at all.”

 

My voice rose as I became unintentionally agitated.

 

To think a person like that is Calix’s final opponent. What if he uses a cowardly trick to hurt him?

 

Michael seemed to share my thoughts, as he wore a worried expression.

 

“It’s customary to overlook injuries sustained during a match. The Schpern knight is cowardly. To have such a person as a final opponent… It’s a problem, especially since Brother fights fairly.”

 

Servants rushed out to carry the unconscious Lawrence knight away on a stretcher.

 

The jousting arena buzzed with surprise and confusion.

 

In the spectator stands, arguments broke out over whether the Schpern knight’s attack was justified.

 

Count Lawrence, the party involved, remained in his seat silently, but a suppressed rage was visible on his face.

 

Franz wore an arrogant smile as if he had already secured the championship. Eliade waited with a haughty expression for the return of the knight who would offer her victory.

 

Ludwig, however, simply watched the arena with a bored expression, legs crossed and chin resting on his hand.

 

The official in charge of the match whispered to the court aide, who then relayed the message to the Crown Prince.

 

The Crown Prince gave a short nod and waved his hand.

 

“A knight’s battle is inherently cold-hearted. Continue the match!”

 

The cheerful sound of the trumpet echoed high in the sky, and the cheers of the crowd resounded throughout the venue.

 

Ultimately, the final showdown between the Reinhardt House and the Schpern House began.

 

Braaaa-p!

 

The starting signal rang out.

 

The two knights’ horses kicked off powerfully. The sound of hooves shook the ground.

 

Faster than the wind, a cloud of white dust rose between the horses galloping at lightning speed.

 

The lances of the two knights passed quickly, aiming for the opponent’s openings.

 

Along with the thunderous roar of lance hitting shield, a flash of light sparked.

 

CRACK!

 

A loud, dull sound echoed throughout the stadium. One knight was thrown high above his horse.

 

The horse continued to run, unable to overcome the force of its speed, leaving its master to fall straight onto the ground.

 

Thick dust masked the outcome like a fog.

 

My heart felt painfully tight, as if it were jumping into my throat from worry and fear.

 

‘Surely, it can’t be.’

 

The image of the knight lying and bleeding overlapped with Calix.

 

I jumped out of my seat and gripped the railing tightly.

 

And, with all my might, I called him.

 

“Lord Calix!”

 

The dust slowly settled, revealing the silver armor sparkling under the sun.

 

Sitting atop his horse, Calix exhaled roughly and tossed aside his helmet.

 

His sweat-drenched face was revealed, and his fine black hair shone like a victor’s laurel.

 

A whirlwind of cheers swept through the stadium that had momentarily fallen silent.

 

“WAAAAAAA!”

 

It was filled with shouts for the victor.

 

“It’s a victory for Grand Duke Calix!”

 

“Long live the Reinhardt House!”

 

Calix slowly spurred his horse toward the spectator stands.

 

The court aide tried to stop him due to the unexpected behavior, but Ludwig raised a hand to restrain him.

 

He untied the handkerchief from his lance and, holding it dearly, stepped up to the platform.

 

As he appeared, people either sighed or swallowed the gasps that were about to burst out.

 

The armor of the hero who had won consecutively for three days was covered in dirt. But his gaze was as clear as pure white snow.

 

All the spectators fell silent in an instant.

 

Everyone watched with tense eyes to see who the lady chosen by Grand Duke Calix was.

 

With the heavy, dull clanking of armor, he moved toward me, step by step.

 

While everyone’s gaze was naturally fixed on Freesia.

 

Calix passed her and finally stopped right in front of me.

 

Someone gasped in surprise. The sounds of people murmuring in confusion drifted far away.

 

It felt as if everything around me had been separated by an invisible wall in a single moment.

 

Michael, who looked sad for some reason, and Freesia, who watched Calix and me with a blank expression, were pushed beyond it.

 

I couldn’t see or hear anything. Anything at all.

 

There was only him before my eyes.

 

Calix kissed the edge of the handkerchief.

 

As his thin lips touched the fabric, it felt as though he were kissing me.

 

He knelt before me without a hint of hesitation. Cries of surprise and shock spread among the people.

 

Calix bowed his head in submission and offered the handkerchief to my hand.

 

“My benefactor, my friend, my lady. I offer this victory for your honor.”

 

His low, deep voice declared a dazzling tribute and a burning vow.

 

‘Why am I crying? How should I respond to this heart?’

 

“The Grand Duke’s lady? Who on earth is that lady?”

 

“It’s a face I’ve never seen before.”

 

“Wait, isn’t that the uniform of a Royal Library librarian? Could it be…?”

 

Like a bucket of cold water, my sense of reality returned in an instant.

 

Calix was still kneeling before me.

 

‘Wait a minute, how am I supposed to handle this situation?’

 

I felt like I was suffocating from the attention pouring over me, but I stood tall.

 

In reality, I was trembling enough to faint and was completely lost.

 

I took a deep breath and smiled broadly at Calix.

 

Then, I shouted in a fuss, as if for everyone to hear.

 

“Oh my! Grand Duke. You still had it on your mind that I saved Lord Michael. I simply did what had to be done, yet you repay me like this! I shall consider it the honor of my family!”

 

The quick-witted nobles immediately picked up the key keywords within my rambling words.

 

The expressions that had been stiff with anxiety, shock, and surprise began to disappear one by one. There were even those letting out sighs of relief.

 

They turned to each other, signaling secretly with their eyes or nodding.

 

“As expected, the Grand Duke is a magnificent man. To win a match just to repay a favor.”

 

“My, what a moving story. I almost made a huge misunderstanding.”

 

‘I’m the one who wants to sigh in relief, seriously.’

 

Fortunately, the atmosphere indicated that the young ladies were convinced I was not Calix’s lady.

 

Except for the man right in front of me.

 

Calix watched me with eyes full of suspicion.

 

‘What on earth are you up to?’

 

…I pretended not to see his questioning gaze.

 

Exuding a strong will not to move until he heard an answer, he stood there like a stone statue.

 

‘Is there no savior to get me out of this awkward situation?’

 

Michael and Freesia were no help, as they were merely looking at Calix with eyes of respect and admiration.

 

In a state of desperation, I looked toward Crown Prince Ludwig.

 

His eyes were sparkling as if he had discovered the most interesting spectacle.

 

I sent him a look pleading for help, desperately.

 

“Please help me, Your Highness! Take the Grand Duke away.”

 

One of Ludwig’s eyebrows arched, and he gave a small nod.

 

‘Did he really understand me?’

 

His lips moved slowly. Even though he was far away, I could tell what he was saying just by the shape of his mouth.

 

“No. Way.”

 

‘Ugh, I was a fool to trust that Crown Prince. He’s just enjoying watching the fire!’

 

The court aide came before Calix and bowed politely.

 

“Grand Duke Reinhardt, you must receive the prize bestowed by His Royal Highness. Please come this way.”

 

The person who threw me a lifeline was none other than the court aide.

 

Calix, who had been staring at me until the end, stood up and followed the aide.

 

Calix approached the seat of honor and bowed deeply.

 

The Crown Prince welcomed the hero with open arms and a satisfied smile. If there hadn’t been eyes watching, he looked ready to embrace him.

 

“My loyal knight has returned with victory in his grasp.”

 

“I had no intention of offering the victory to Your Highness.”

 

Despite the sharp, firm answer, the Crown Prince was not offended but rather pleased.

 

“It matters not. Your victory is my victory.”

 

The Crown Prince fluttered his cloak and declared in a loud, resonant voice toward everyone in the jousting arena: “In the name of the Great King of Ruberia, I declare! The winner of today’s match is Grand Duke Calix Reinhardt! Praise the victory of the brave hero!”

 

Calix prostrated, and the Crown Prince placed the laurel wreath on his head, commending his hard work.

 

With an expressionless face, Calix stepped out onto the platform and revealed himself to the crowd.

 

The sight of him wearing the laurel wreath was beautiful, like a guardian of justice, and his dignified figure shone brilliantly under the sun.

 

“Long live Grand Duke Calix Reinhardt!”

 

“Glory to the Northern Duke!”

 

The heated cheers chanting his name echoed in the arena for a long time.

 

 

***

 

 

As the official match concluded, the knights returned to their respective waiting rooms.

 

Calix also went down to the knights’ waiting room. However, the platform was still noisy with nobles gathered to converse with the Crown Prince.

 

Under the direction of the court aide, servants organized the area with perfect order and brought in long tables.

 

Subsequently, beautiful wreaths, high-quality wine, glasses, and a variety of dishes began to be placed on the tables.

 

“Lord Michael, what are they preparing now?”

 

I whispered to Michael, who was sitting next to me.

 

“They are preparing a banquet to celebrate the jousting tournament. Sister, I’m going to go greet someone I know for a moment. Could you wait a bit?”

 

“Yes. Don’t worry and go ahead.”

 

Michael naturally approached the nobles and greeted them. At the appearance of the polite and sociable Young Lord, they welcomed him warmly.

 

‘I don’t know whose child he is, but he grew up so well. It makes me feel proud for no reason. I’m glad that while his brother, Grand Duke Calix, is a socially-inept outsider, Michael isn’t. The future of the Reinhardt House is bright.’

 

While waiting, I thought about talking to Freesia, but she was already surrounded by nobles her own age.

 

The young nobles were busy trying to win her favor and expressing their liking for her. Freesia was in the middle of a conversation with a troubled smile.

 

‘Our female lead is too kind; it’s a worry.’

 

I watched with wide eyes in case some nasty pest might latch onto her and cause trouble.

 

“Where are you looking? Librarian Erika.”

 

A voice that made my whole body freeze reflexively just by hearing it called out to me.