Chapter 25

Three days had passed since then.

 

They were blindingly busy days filled with running the book club and attending to library duties. I only managed to take a single day off to rest because Rose practically pushed me out the door.

 

“Erika, you have to rest tomorrow, no matter what!”

 

“Huh? But I still have so much work to do, Rose. Wait, are you worrying about me? I’m actually a little touched—”

 

“Who cares about work! You have to go get fitted for a dress for the ball. If you don’t go tomorrow, you won’t have a thing to wear and you’ll have to show up to the ball in your librarian uniform!”

 

“Ah… Right.”

 

Unable to win against Rose’s insistence, I ended up taking the day off.

 

Since I had decided to rest, I wanted nothing more than to laze around in bed all day. But I had already promised Freesia that we would visit a boutique shop together in the afternoon.

 

Sacrificing a sweet, precious day of rest just to get a dress fitted…

 

Even as I forced myself to comb my hair and put on a day dress, continuous sighs leaked from my lips.

 

Once I finished getting ready, I headed down to the mansion’s entrance hall, where a maid bowed in greeting.

 

“Milady, Lady Rubel has arrived.”

 

“Ah, she’s already here. I’ll be back.”

 

Stepping outside, the Count Rubel family’s extravagant carriage proudly made its presence known.

 

As I reached out to step inside, I hesitated for a moment.

 

The meaningful words Freesia had spoken to me a few days ago during our dance practice at the library crossed my mind.

 

Back then, I was too busy trying to follow the steps to think much of it, but it had been bothering me ever since.

 

Why would she say something like that to me?

 

It made me question if she was really the gentle, kind female lead I knew.

 

Was it because we shared the same violet eyes?

 

Her intense gaze, which locked onto me with near-obsessive persistence, strangely resembled Franz’s.

 

‘No way, that’s ridiculous. Thinking that is a huge insult to Freesia!’

 

I shook my head to banish the useless delusion.

 

A coachman in a pristine white uniform bowed politely and opened the carriage door for me.

 

“Please step inside, Librarian Erika.”

 

Inside, Freesia greeted me with a bright, radiant smile.

 

“Erika, welcome.”

 

She wore a soft pink dress layered with dainty ribbons, which suited her flushed, rose-tinted complexion beautifully. Seeing her look as excited as a child going on a picnic made me smile as well.

 

“I was so thrilled last night that I could barely sleep. It’s my first time picking out a dress with a friend.”

 

“Is that so? Now I feel guilty for troubling you, Freesia.”

 

Her gaze lingered on me intently. Her long eyelashes fluttered slowly like a butterfly’s wings—it was a mesmerizing sight.

 

“Being helpful to you is my greatest happiness, Erika. So please, don’t feel sorry.”

 

It was that familiar situation again. Whenever she stared at me intently, I found myself captivated and dazed.

 

Was this the power of a female lead loved by all?

 

An ant-like extra like me couldn’t help but be drawn to her, like a moth flying straight into a flame.

 

The carriage jolted into motion, bringing me back to my senses as I sat up straight.

 

“It would have been nice if Librarian Rose could have joined us too.” Freesia remarked with a gentle smile.

 

“I know, right? But the Madison Merchant Guild is extremely busy these days, so Rose had to help out. I suppose it’s because it’s the social season.”

 

In truth, Rose had wanted to go to Madame Merdil’s boutique even more than I did.

 

Operating strictly on a reservation system, Merdil’s boutique led the capital’s fashion trends to the point of taking orders from the royal palace itself. It was said that noble ladies would stop at nothing—even resorting to open rivalries—to claim a dress made there. It was only natural for fashion-sensitive Rose to be desperate for one of Merdil’s creations.

 

However, with the social season approaching and the royal ball on the horizon, nobles were scrambling to order garments, gems, and accessories all at once. The only person capable of flawlessly handling the overwhelming volume of orders flooding into the guild and securing deals with demanding noble clients was Rose. Because of that, she had to return to the Madison Merchant Guild, practically eating humble pie.

 

Freesia’s eyes sparkled with curiosity.

 

“Does Lady Rose work directly at the merchant guild? Normally, young noble ladies don’t get involved in their family’s business.”

 

“Librarian Rose has exceptional business acumen. Even Viscount Madison, the head of the guild, recognizes her talent.”

 

“My, Lady Rose is truly wonderful.”

 

The nobles of Ruberia expanded their family fortunes by engaging in various ventures, such as mine development, commerce, and trade. However, business was strictly taught to and inherited by the eldest son or designated heir; daughters were never given the chance.

 

Part of it stemmed from a closed-minded belief that giving business secrets to a daughter who would eventually marry into another family was a liability.

 

Yet, Viscount Madison had taught Rose various aspects of the business and gave her opportunities to directly participate once she came of age. Though, Rose herself claimed she ran away to become a librarian at the Royal Library simply because working was a hassle.

 

Freesia turned her head to look out the window. The scenery of the capital drifted past like a painting.

 

The central fountain square, the broad avenues lined with flowering trees, and the noble ladies strolling leisurely in their vibrant dresses.

 

It was a peaceful and warm afternoon, yet the eyes watching the scenery looked empty.

 

“Both you and Librarian Rose are living the life you truly desire, Erika. I envy you.”

 

Before I could figure out what to say, the carriage came to a halt.

 

“It seems we’ve arrived.”

 

As if nothing had happened, Freesia smiled sweetly and offered her hand to me.

 

The carriage had stopped in a quiet, secluded downtown street, slightly removed from the capital’s bustling commercial district.

 

We stepped out in front of an elegant, three-story mansion built in a classical style.

 

A dressmaker’s shop located in a downtown area typically reserved for noble holiday villas felt a bit puzzling. Wouldn’t it be better for business, accessibility, and promotion to be located in the main shopping district?

 

Noticing the expression on my face, Freesia took my hand affectionately and led me forward.

 

“It’s unusual to find a boutique in a place like this, isn’t it? But because it operates strictly by appointment, it’s situated somewhere quiet.”

 

“You must visit often, Freesia.”

 

“Yes. I’ve accompanied Countess Demeter here a few times. The Countess asked me to help you choose a dress, Erika.”

 

When Freesia mentioned Countess Demeter, my heart sank as if a heavy stone had been dropped into it.

 

I knew the Countess favored Freesia, but I couldn’t help the hollow feeling rising inside me.

 

The human heart is so fickle. Even after firmly resolving not to get involved with Calix, I still wavered like a reed at every turn.

 

Inside the boutique’s entrance hall, staff dressed as maids bowed in unison to greet us.

 

Behind them, an elegant middle-aged woman wearing a purple velvet dress and a feathered hat offered a polite greeting.

 

“Lady Rubel, Lady Diel, a most sincere welcome to you both. I am Madame Merdil, the owner of this boutique.”

 

Madame Merdil escorted us to a lavishly decorated parlor.

 

Luxurious sofas were prepared, and on a marble table lay dozens of dress design sketches spread out before us.

 

On the opposite side, a mobile rack hung with various styles of dresses and a large mirror framed in carved rose patterns came into view.

 

“Countess Demeter left special instructions. I have prepared several designs that would suit Lady Diel. Please take your time to look around and let me know your thoughts.”

 

The rack Merdil pointed to alone held over twenty dresses.

 

Every single one was so gorgeous and ornate that looking at them made my head spin, leaving me unsure of what to pick.

 

A tailor holding a measuring tape approached and began taking my physical measurements.

 

Meanwhile, Freesia carefully reviewed the dress sketches one by one, before speaking to Madame Merdil with familiar ease.

 

“Madame, please bring this one over.”

 

Merdil immediately instructed an assistant to fetch the dress. As the staff held the dress up against me, Freesia observed it closely before gently shaking her head.

 

Following Freesia’s directions, I had to repeatedly change in and out of dresses.

 

I had thought picking a dress would be simple, but I was dead wrong.

 

I hadn’t realized how ridiculously high and demanding Freesia’s standards were!

 

Before long, the table was piled high with dresses that Freesia had coldly rejected.

 

To my eyes, they all looked perfectly lovely, yet she firmly pointed to the next option without hesitation.

 

I thought she was just a gentle, flower-like young lady, but she was indeed a daughter of a high-ranking Count’s house after all.

 

The sharp, meticulous look in her eyes as she inspected each dress was undeniable.

 

‘I really wish she’d just pick something reasonable. She’s being way too passionate and enthusiastic about this—it’s overwhelming!’

 

By the time I was trying on my seventh dress, I felt like collapsing on the spot. Even my archery training hadn’t been this exhausting.

 

I genuinely wanted to offer my utmost respect to the endurance of noblewomen.

 

How on earth could they change multiple times into dresses that were so heavy, complicated, and cumbersome to wear?

 

“Freesia… Can we just pick anything at this point—”

 

I tried to carefully voice my opinion, but I was cut off by Freesia’s sorrowful sigh.

 

“It’s so unfortunate that we don’t have enough time before the ball, forcing us to buy off-the-rack dresses. To truly capture your beauty, Erika, only a custom-made gown would do.”

 

“Ahaha… You flatter me too much.”

 

Hearing such words from the undisputed top beauty of the kingdom made me so embarrassed I didn’t know where to hide.

 

‘Please, I beg of you, don’t say things like that in front of others!’

 

Even Madame Merdil seemed temporarily lost for words. However, like the seasoned veteran accustomed to dealing with countless noble clients, she quickly regained her composure with an unwavering smile.

 

“The deep affection between you two is truly a beautiful sight to behold. Well then, shall we find the absolute perfect dress for Lady Erika?”

 

Watching Madame Merdil suddenly burst with renewed motivation, I felt like I was plunging headfirst into a pit of despair.

 

‘Please, someone save me from this dress hell!’

 

As if my desperate prayer had been answered, a boutique employee rushed into the parlor at that exact moment. Her expression was pale with fright.

 

“M-Madame Merdil, a guest has arrived in urgent haste!”

 

“Our only appointments today were these two ladies. Who on earth could it be?”

 

Merdil raised an eyebrow, her expression souring. The employee leaned in and carefully whispered into her ear.

 

Upon hearing the visitor’s identity, Merdil’s face turned gravely serious.

 

“Escort them to the other parlor immediately. I shall come right away.”

 

“Understood.”

 

Merdil turned back to us, bowing repeatedly in apology.

 

“I am deeply sorry. I know this is a grave rudeness, but I must ask for your understanding. A guest with urgent business has suddenly arrived. Would you mind if I step away for a brief moment?”

 

“Oh, no, it’s quite all right. Please, go ahead.”

 

Rudeness? You just saved my life!

 

I flashed a bright, willing smile and sent the madame on her way.

 

‘Phew, I barely survived that. I was on the verge of collapsing under a pile of silk. To my anonymous savior, whoever you are: thank you for rescuing me from dress hell!’

 

Freesia, on the other hand, did not look pleased at all. Displeasure was written clearly across her face, though she seemed to be holding it back in front of me.

 

Seeing her—who was always so warm and gentle when with me—display an expression like that made her look like a completely different person.

 

Freesia looked down at the dress sketches, unable to hide her frustration.

 

“I wanted to pick out the perfect dress for you, Erika, but it’s proving so difficult.”

 

“It’s fine! Really! I actually quite like this sky-blue dress you picked earlier.”

 

I hastily shook my head to soothe her.

 

Putting on another dress was completely out of the question, and the last thing I wanted was for Freesia to feel upset.

 

“Is that so? I feel like it would look much brighter with a few more layers of lace and ribbons, though.”

 

She looked at my dress with a troubled expression, inspecting it thoroughly.

 

The sky-blue dress I was currently wearing had five layers of delicate pleats below the waist that swayed gracefully like a dance with every step I took.

 

Designed in an off-the-shoulder style that exposed the neck and shoulders, soft layers of sheer lace wrapped around it, creating an elegant and ethereal atmosphere. The silver lace ribbons cascading down the back were rich and voluminous as well.

 

“This dress is more than enough. Since we’re short on time, let’s go with this one. I’m just going to wash my hands real quick.”

 

If I stayed in the parlor any longer, I was terrified she’d make me put on a new dress. I needed an excuse to slip out and catch my breath in the hallway.

 

“Go ahead. I’ll pick out some matching accessories while you’re gone.”

 

Seeing Freesia trying so hard on my behalf made a pang of guilt strike my conscience.

 

‘Freesia, I’m really sorry. But I need a quick breather. If I stay in there, I’ll be crushed to death under a mountain of dresses.’

 

Escaping into the corridor, I found a hallway lined with a plush red carpet.

 

Paintings of noble ladies wearing an assortment of gowns hung along the walls—it looked like a gallery showcasing the boutique’s finest masterpieces.

 

At the far end of the hallway sat a luxurious couch.

 

‘Ah, I’m saved! Let’s go rest over there!’

 

Gathering my skirts, I hurried forward, only for the heel of my shoe to catch on the long hem of my dress.

 

“Whoa—!”

 

‘No! The dress is going to rip at this rate! That’s a whole month’s salary gone!’

 

As I screamed internally while flailing my arms, a strong arm suddenly wrapped around my waist.

 

Thanks to that, I was spared from the tragic fate of ruining a brand-new dress.

 

“Haa, thank you so much! You saved me.”

 

I let out a sigh of relief and bowed my head to my savior. It was probably one of the boutique staff.

 

“As careless as ever, Erika.”

 

That smooth, dangerously sharp voice—a voice I could never mistake. And then came the heavy, suffocating scent of roses drifting to my nose.

 

I snapped my eyes upward to find shimmering silver hair and cold, violet eyes staring down at me.

 

Franz Schpern. Why on earth are you here?

 

I knew our fates were bound like an inescapable nightmare, but running into you at a boutique shop is pushing it!

 

As if I had touched fire, I scrambled out of his hold. The sensation of his hand on my waist lingered, sending a shiver down my spine.

 

I glared at him and asked sharply, “What are you doing here?”

 

“My sister begged me relentlessly to come along, so I was dragged here against my will.”

 

Franz crossed his arms, looking thoroughly bored and annoyed.

 

Was the guest Madame Merdil rushed out to meet the Schpern siblings?

 

No wonder the staff looked pale as ghosts when they ran past. I didn’t even need to imagine how badly they were being tormented right now.

 

Adjusting my skirts, I turned around on my heel immediately.

 

I needed to leave the boutique before running into Eliade. I had zero desire to get dragged into an exhausting, petty confrontation with her.

 

After all, I’m just a peace-loving person with a heavy streak of laziness.

 

“…Beautiful.”

 

However, the voice echoing behind my back made me freeze in my tracks.

 

Did I mishear that? Did that guy just… compliment me?

 

“What did you just say?”

 

Rather than a compliment, it felt like a blatant insult.

 

Coming from him, even the nicest words were bound to be laced with malice.

 

Franz, looking like a cold marble statue, closed the distance with slow, deliberate steps.

 

The unreadable depth in his eyes made him all the more terrifying.

 

Unconsciously, I stepped backward to get away from him, only for my back to hit the hard, cool surface of the wall. The chill sent a shudder through my body.

 

His violet eyes shimmered with a dreamy, intoxicated haze as he stared intently down at me.

 

“I thought your appearance was merely passable, but this is truly astonishing. To think you could look this beautiful.”

 

A gaze so intense it felt as though it could burn through my skin swept down my body. Wherever his eyes landed, my skin pricked with heat.

 

“Are you making fun of me right now?”

 

I narrowed my eyes and glared at him. Franz blinked his long eyelashes slowly.

 

“I’m complimenting you, Erika.”

 

The sharp glint of a predator stalking its prey flashed in his eyes.

 

Meeting those violet eyes, swirling with obsessive desire and raw possessiveness, made goosebumps break out across my spine.

 

“Ah, right. Thanks. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m busy.”

 

I offered a quick, polite brush-off and tried to push past him. But Franz abruptly slammed a heavy hand onto my shoulder, trapping me against the wall once more. A flare of anger surged inside me.

 

“What is your problem? Stop this while I’m still asking nicely, Young Lord Schpern.”

 

Like the psychopath heir he was, completely indifferent to other people’s feelings, he didn’t listen to a single word.

 

Instead, he brazenly began to trace his fingers over my bare shoulder.

 

As his hand brushed across my skin, it left a searing, stinging sensation in its wake, as if I were being branded.

 

His gaze examined me—slow, yet relentlessly persistent—like an art connoisseur appreciating a piece of work.

 

Gritting my teeth, I slapped his hand away with force.

 

This crazy prince was really testing the absolute limits of my patience.

 

The only reason I was suppressing my power was because Freesia was in the building.

 

“I believe I warned you never to lay a hand on me again.”

 

The corner of his mouth twisted upward into a dark smirk.

 

“I always thought women’s dresses were nothing more than ridiculous candy wrappers. But seeing it on you… perhaps I was wrong.”

 

Listening to his nonsense made my blood boil.

 

I was already thoroughly irritated from wearing such an uncomfortable dress. I had only been enduring it because Freesia worked so hard to pick it out, and now I had to listen to this jerk call it a candy wrapper?

 

Franz grabbed my hand and tilted his head at a sly angle.

 

“Though, that color is a bit… Why don’t you try wearing a brighter shade? I imagine it would suit your pale skin much better.”

 

Just because I’m staying quiet, do I look like an easy target to you?

 

Just as I was channeling strength into my hand, a sharp, agitated voice echoed from the end of the hallway.

 

“Take your hands off her immediately, Young Lord Schpern!”

 

I turned to see Freesia standing there with a stern, unyielding expression. Her eyes were calm, radiating the natural dignity of a Count’s daughter.

 

Franz, still holding my wrist, shot Freesia a mocking glance.

 

“Hmm, Lady Rubel has arrived as well.”

 

“Refrain from such insolent behavior toward Lady Diel. Show some dignity as the heir of the Ducal house.”

 

Freesia spoke with firm authority, not flinching in the slightest.

 

‘I thought she was just a fragile, soft-hearted female lead, but to think she had a side like this…’

 

“From where I stand, it seems you are the one acting out of character, Lady Rubel.”

 

Franz wore his signature lazy smirk, glaring back at Freesia.

 

‘What kind of nonsense is he rambling about now?’

 

I was about to snap at Franz, but Freesia suddenly stepped forward without hesitation.

 

Fearing that Franz might do something to harm her, I tried to step in front of her to block his path. But instead, Freesia wrapped her arm firmly around my waist, pulling me behind her as if to protect me.

 

With her face turned toward Franz, I couldn’t see her expression. She leaned in close to his ear and whispered something in a low voice.

 

It wasn’t Ruberian—it was the language of magic.

 

She spoke so fluently and rapidly that it was impossible to decipher its meaning on the spot.

 

‘Why on earth does Freesia know the language of magic?’

 

I had no idea what she said to him, but Franz’s face instantly froze cold.

 

The tight grip he had on my wrist loosened and slipped away.

 

Freesia didn’t miss the opening, immediately shielding me behind her back. The corner of Franz’s mouth twitched into a smirk—whether out of mock amusement or genuine admiration, I couldn’t tell.

 

“To think even Lady Rubel would appoint herself as your guardian… You truly are remarkable, Erika. Which makes me…”

 

Franz stepped behind his back, leisurely shifting his position to step around Freesia.

 

Freesia flinched and tried to block him again, but Franz was a step faster.

 

He snatched my wrist once more.

 

“…want to possess you even more.”

 

“Young Lord, you cross the line!” Freesia shouted sharply.

 

Ignoring her completely, Franz pressed his lips against the back of my hand.

 

His front teeth bit down firmly onto the delicate skin of my hand before releasing it.

 

It was like a wild beast marking its prey with a bite to claim ownership.

 

“Ugh…”

 

A sharp sting made me knit my brows in pain. I forced myself not to show it, afraid Freesia would worry.

 

I yanked my hand back fiercely out of his grip. I quickly hid my injured hand within the folds of my skirt.

 

The bite mark left by his teeth was already beginning to heal. The speed of my body’s recovery was becoming terrifyingly fast.

 

Franz’s eyes obsessively tracked my hidden hand.

 

‘Did that bastard do that on purpose? Just to test my power?’

 

Offering a relaxed, mocking smile, Franz bowed with mock elegance toward us.

 

“I shall accede to Lady Rubel’s wishes for today. I look forward to the pleasure of meeting you both at the royal ball.”

 

With that, Franz turned around and vanished down the hallway toward the other parlor.

 

Freesia kept her sharp, fierce gaze locked on his retreating figure until he was completely out of sight. Her stance made it clear that she would never stand by and let Franz harm me.

 

Only after the heavy, intoxicating scent of roses clinging to him faded away did I finally exhale a deep breath, releasing the tense pressure in my chest.

 

The lingering sensation of his teeth digging into my skin made a fresh wave of rage rush through me.

 

‘I really should have broken his arm.’

 

For some reason, whenever I crossed paths with Franz, it was nearly impossible to control the burning anger rising inside me.

 

That insufferable heir provoked me to my absolute limits every single time we met—as if he were deliberately picking fights just to verify my power. That was precisely why I was afraid to use it.

 

I still had no idea where this power originated from, or how it was connected to the demonic beasts.

 

Above all, I couldn’t risk using demonic power right in front of Freesia.

 

Freesia and I returned to our parlor, sitting side-by-side on the sofa to catch our breath.

 

“Erika.”

 

Freesia took my hand gently, her eyes filled with deep worry as she looked at me.

 

“Are you truly all right? Did that Young Lord do anything else to you…?”

 

“I’m fine. Nothing happened, really.”

 

I quickly shook my head, putting on a calm front so she wouldn’t worry.

 

Though I acted composed on the outside, my insides were boiling with rage.

 

‘Before that lunatic goes completely off the rails, I need to uncover his treasonous plot and throw him into a dungeon.’

 

Honestly, I was so furious I could barely stand it.

 

‘I really should have grabbed that bastard by the collar and slammed him onto the floor!’

 

“To act so rudely toward a noble lady is utterly unbelievable. No matter how powerful the Schpern Ducal House may be, this cannot be ignored. I will bring this to the attention of high society and officially demand an apology.”

 

Freesia spoke calmly, but her violet eyes burned with cold fury.

 

‘They always say the gentlest people are the scariest when angry.’

 

For now, I needed to calm her down.

 

“I’m really fine. Please don’t worry. If anything, I feel bad for dragging you into this, Freesia.”

 

Freesia let out a deep sigh, a pained look crossing her face.

 

“Young Lord Schpern is known in high society as a refined and courteous nobleman. To think he could be this vile behind closed doors… Has he been harassing you like this all this time?”

 

“No, this was the first time. Besides, I’m not the type to just sit back and take it if someone tries to pick a fight. Thank you for worrying about me, Freesia.”

 

‘If he had tried to drag me into that room by force, I was fully prepared to throw a punch straight at his handsome face.’

 

Though I gave her a bright smile, Freesia’s expression remained dead serious.

 

“Why didn’t you inform Grand Duke Reinhardt about this?”

 

“Huh?”

 

When she mentioned Calix, I froze, completely unsure of how to react.

 

‘Did Freesia… figure out what was going on between Calix and me? Does she know he’s been showing me an unusual amount of favor and attention?’

 

Clearing my chaotic thoughts, I let out a soft cough.

 

“Why would I need to tell the Grand Duke?”

 

Freesia looked at me with an expression that seemed to ask why I was even questioning something so obvious.

 

“The Grand Duke is protecting you in your capacity as the Book Reader, isn’t he? Naturally, you should inform him when you are in danger.”

 

Everything came to a dead halt as my mind went completely blank.

 

‘Why… does Freesia know about the ‘Book Reader’?’

 

I had never used the Book Finder in front of her, nor had I ever told her that I was the Book Reader.

 

Did she happen to overhear it while visiting the library? Or did Palia, the Mage of Protection, tell her?

 

Freesia’s lovely face was shadowed with genuine worry for me. Seeing her fragile frame trying so hard to protect me made me feel both touched and apologetic.

 

‘Right, I must be overthinking things. She frequents the library, so she easily could have heard people talking about me being the Book Reader.’

 

I felt embarrassed for having doubted her, even for a split second.

 

Forcing a bright smile, I brushed it off smoothly.

 

“It’s really all right. It’s not a big deal. I can’t bother the Grand Duke over something like this.”

 

“But…!”

 

“Besides, you helped me out, Freesia! You were so amazing back there! I was genuinely touched by how confidently you stood up to Young Lord Schpern. Thank you so much.”

 

Flashing a radiant smile, I struck an encouraging fighting pose.

 

Though taken aback for a moment, she covered her mouth with her hand and giggled shyly.

 

“Do you know something, Erika?”

 

“Yes?”

 

Freesia quietly stood up and knelt down softly right in front of me. She didn’t seem to care in the slightest that her dress was touching the floor and getting dirty.

 

Placing her hand over mine, she locked her eyes directly onto mine.

 

Her delicate face leaned closer toward me.

 

Just as I realized how close we were, a sweet scent of white lilies enveloped my senses. The faint, enchanting fragrance left my mind feeling dazed.

 

“Even a fragile woman will willingly summon her courage if it is to protect someone precious to her.”

 

I was left completely speechless.

 

Why did the intensity and fiery heat in those violet eyes look so hauntingly similar to Franz’s?

 

The raw emotion she was laying bare felt so heavy and overwhelming that I didn’t know how to receive it.

 

‘Why are my cheeks burning like this?’

 

Driven by the urge to escape, I quickly stood up from the sofa.

 

“I’m… going to go change my clothes first.”

 

When I stepped out of the fitting room after changing back into my own clothes, Freesia was still staring intently at the dress sketches with a serious expression.

 

“Should we head out now? I’ll take the dress I tried on earlier.”

 

“What? But we still have at least three more dresses to look at.”

 

Freesia scanned the remaining sketches with a look full of reluctance and regret.

 

I quickly held up the sky-blue dress I had worn earlier, flashing a satisfied smile.

 

“No, really, I absolutely love this one! I’ll take it!”

 

“Are you truly sure that one is fine, Erika?”

 

“Of course! Shall we go for a walk instead?”

 

Rather than wasting another second picking out dresses, my only desire was to escape this place as fast as possible.

 

I quickly grabbed Freesia’s hand and urged her to leave the boutique.

 

Having heard that we were leaving, Madame Merdil came out to see us off.

 

“I am deeply sorry for the many disruptions today, Ladies. I will make sure the dress is fitted to absolute perfection and delivered directly to the library mansion.”

 

Merdil bowed repeatedly in apology. Her face looked noticeably gaunt, likely drained from being tormented by Eliade during that short span of time.

 

Offering her my deepest sympathies from the bottom of my heart, I practically fled from the boutique shop, terrified of running into the nightmare Schpern siblings once again.

 

 

***

 

 

“Erika, is this really where people go for a walk?”

 

Freesia looked around with a flustered expression, clutching her skirts tightly.

 

I gave her a bright smile and nodded.

 

“Of course. I’ve been wanting to check out the capital’s marketplace for a while now. It feels so grounded and full of life.”

 

“Full of life?”

 

A slight wrinkle formed on the bridge of her delicate nose. Just then, we happened to be passing by a fishmonger, and the pungent reek of raw fish pierced our nostrils.

 

‘Oh dear, my bad.’

 

I let out an embarrassed laugh, took her hand, and quickly hurried us down the market street.

 

Leaving the fancy commercial district behind, we walked through the market street that stretched into the back alleys.

 

Under colorful awnings lined a wide array of shops—blacksmiths, butcher shops, fruit stands, and bakeries—where merchants and customers were busily bargaining.

 

Laughter and cheerful voices overflowed from every corner of the street.

 

Freesia widened her eyes, looking around the market with fascination.

 

“It’s my first time coming to a place like this. Everyone seems so full of energy.”

 

“It’s my first time coming here too; I’d only ever heard about it. Still, I like it better than the capital’s high-end shopping district. It feels much more comfortable.”

 

Stepping into those luxurious shops frequented by nobles always made me feel suffocated. Just look at how drained I was after being at that boutique.

 

I much preferred strolling through a humble yet vibrant market, looking at the goods, people-watching, and grabbing a quick snack.

 

In a corner of the market, I spotted a sandwich food cart. They were selling sliced pork and vegetables stuffed inside baguette bread. I swiftly ordered two sandwiches from the vendor.

 

Watching from my side, Freesia looked around in bewilderment.

 

“Are we… really going to eat food on the street? With so many people around?”

 

“Why not? It’s meant to be eaten on the street anyway. Besides, aren’t you hungry?”

 

Offering a cheerful grin, I handed a sandwich to Freesia. She accepted it cautiously into her hands.

 

As I took a big bite out of my sandwich, Freesia glanced around for a moment.

 

I suppose it was a matter of pride as a noble lady. Eating food on the street was probably something she had never even imagined doing.

 

“Shall we move somewhere else?”

 

I led Freesia away from the crowded market street and into a quiet, secluded alleyway.

 

Memorizing the map of the capital down to the last detail back when I was planning my escape to the Royal Library had certainly paid off. I could remember almost every street.

 

We stood side-by-side, leaning against an old stone wall covered in green ivy.

 

“Give it a try. Food tastes so much better when you eat it on the street. Trust me on this.”

 

At my persistent encouragement, she took a deep breath, as if summoning immense courage. Seeing her like that was strangely adorable, and I had to suppress a giggle.

 

Taking a cautious bite of the sandwich, Freesia’s eyes went wide.

 

After chewing softly with her pink lips and swallowing the bite, she nodded her head.

 

We looked at each other and shared a gentle smile.

 

“You were right, Erika. It’s delicious.”

 

“Fufu, see? Eating while taking in the market views adds to the flavor.”

 

There were no white tablecloths, silverware, or candlesticks, but the sandwich eaten under the warm sunlight, leaning against a stone wall, tasted fantastic.

 

I quietly watched the market scenery as I ate my sandwich.

 

Before me unfolded the diligent lives of people earnestly going about their day.

 

A blacksmith hammered away at his forge, shopkeepers shouted at the top of their lungs to pitch their wares, and laborers carried massive bundles on their backs.

 

The laughter of children running through the market and the chatter of people making purchases echoed like an endless song.

 

“Erika, what are you looking at?”

 

“At the people working so hard. Seeing them… makes me feel alive. Just watching them gives me energy.”

 

Spending too much time inside the world of a book sometimes made me forget the real world.

 

Surrounded by the Royal Library, the Grand Duke’s estate, ball preparations, and the flashy lives of nobles, my sense of reality felt dulled.

 

Perhaps that was why seeing people sweating and working earnestly felt surprisingly reassuring.

 

I wondered if my thoughts had reached her. Could someone who had been pampered by maids and raised in luxury since birth truly understand?

 

“I think I know what you mean.”

 

“Is that… so?”

 

I asked back, unable to hide my surprise. Freesia smiled softly and gave a quiet nod.

 

“I feel that way every time I look at you, Erika. Because you always show me a new world.”

 

“Ah… Do I?”

 

When had I ever done anything that grand?

 

Feeling a wave of shyness, I focused on eating my sandwich instead.

 

Freesia really had a knack for saying sweet, embarrassing things so naturally.

 

I couldn’t tell if it was simply due to her naturally pure and tender personality, or if it was because she held genuine affection for me.

 

Just then, I sensed a faint presence behind us.

 

I whipped around, causing a young boy to gasp in surprise and stumble backward.

 

“I-I’m so sorry!”

 

He was thin—maybe ten years old at most—and dressed in ragged clothes.

 

His lip was split, and visible cuts and bruises marred his arms and legs.

 

The boy looked terrified and tense, swallowing nervously while clutching his small hands into tight fists.

 

“Did I startle you? Are you okay?”

 

I asked him gently. The boy’s eyes flickered with anxiety before he quickly gave a small nod.

 

His dry lips parted slightly, as if he had something he desperately wanted to say.

 

Freesia looked at him with an inquiring expression.

 

“Who is that child? He looks like a beggar from the streets.”

 

“P-Please help me. My mom is sick…”

 

The boy clasped his hands together tightly, pleading with earnest desperation. Yet his eyes kept darting nervously toward the gloomy depths of the alleyway behind us, as if he were constantly checking on someone.

 

I gently patted the child’s head.

 

“You must be so worried. Where is your mother? I’ll go fetch a doctor for her.”

 

“She’s at a house just down that alleyway. It won’t take long. Could you please come with me? P-Please!”

 

His filthy hands, clutching the fabric of my dress, were covered in a mix of dirt, severe bruises, and dried bloodstains.

 

Had someone beaten him? Seeing those raw injuries made my heart ache with a sharp, heavy pain.

 

I held his small hand firmly in mine.

 

“All right. Let’s go together.”

 

As I turned to step forward with the boy, Freesia calmly stepped in to stop me.

 

“Erika, are you really going? I’ll order a servant to help that child. You don’t need to step up for something like this.”

 

From her calm composure, I felt an invisible, solid wall.

 

It reminded me all over again that Freesia was a noble lady from a prestigious Count’s house.

 

To her, helping a poor, starving child was probably no different from taking pity on a stray puppy.

 

“I want to go see for myself and help. If it makes you uncomfortable, Freesia, would you mind waiting at the boutique shop? I’ll be back in a flash.”

 

Freesia let out a faint sigh and shook her head.

 

“I can’t let you go alone, Erika. If you must go, then I’m coming with you.”

 

The deep end of the alleyway looked desolate and dangerous at a glance.

 

It was so gloomy that it wouldn’t be surprising if something popped out at any moment, and there wasn’t a soul in sight.

 

‘This is bad. It looks like a trap clear as day.’

 

Dragging Freesia into this was going to complicate things. But when it came to anything involving me, she was surprisingly stubborn.

 

I let out an internal sigh.

 

‘Worst-case scenario, I’ll just grab her hand and make a run for it.’

 

The boy kept his head low as he led us into the alleyway. The thin hand holding mine trembled uncontrollably.

 

Unlike his urgent plea about his sick mother, the boy’s pace grew slower and slower with every step.

 

He looked just like a cow being dragged against its will to a slaughterhouse.

 

Finally, we reached the entrance of a dark, narrow passage. The alleyway, packed tightly with high walls and brick houses, was completely deserted and devoid of sunlight.

 

“If you go into that alley and turn right… that’s my house.”

 

The boy gave directions in a weak, hollow voice.

 

I approached him and squatted down in front of him.

 

His eyes shook with guilt and terror. It looked as though he were about to burst into tears at any moment.

 

“I’m Erika Diel. What’s your name?”

 

“B-Beake.”

 

A faint spark of life briefly returned to the boy’s eyes.

 

“I… I know you, Lady Erika. You’re the… Goddess of War, right? You shot fire arrows at the monsters!”

 

“That’s right. Though it’s a bit embarrassing. Word really travels everywhere, doesn’t it?”

 

‘Ugh, how embarrassing.’

 

Thanks to His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, my face was probably known across the entire Kingdom of Ruberia by now.

 

I opened the boy’s hand and pressed a purse of money into his palm. Beake gasped in surprise and shook his head frantically.

 

“I-I can’t accept this!”

 

“Use this to treat your mother and buy some food. And if you ever need work, come find the Head Librarian at the Royal Library, okay? We happen to be looking for a boy to run errands.”

 

Tears began to fall from Beake’s eyes in big drops.

 

“I-I’m a bad kid. I don’t deserve this money. Lady Erika… you were my idol. I’m sorry. I’m so, so sorry.”

 

Beake hung his head low, speaking in a voice no louder than a faint whisper. Seeing his thin, trembling neck broke my heart.

 

I gently stroked the boy’s head and whispered softly to him.

 

“It’s okay, Beake. Run along now. Don’t look back.”

 

“Lady Erika…?”

 

“You’re a good boy. Don’t worry. I’m the Goddess of War, remember? I’m plenty strong.”

 

I gave Beake’s thin back a firm push. The boy stumbled forward and broke into a run.

 

He briefly turned back toward me, shouted, “Please be careful!”, and vanished beyond the turn of the alleyway.

 

Freesia stepped toward me with a bewildered expression.

 

“What on earth was that child talking about?”

 

“Well, you see…”

 

Just as I was about to explain the situation to her, dark shadows fell over us.

 

Two rough-looking thugs blocked our path.

 

Freesia turned around, her eyes widening like a startled rabbit’s.

 

The entrance to the alleyway had already been sealed off by other thugs as well.

 

The men sneered nastily, stepping closer as if surrounding Freesia and me. I quickly shielded her behind my back.

 

“Hey there, noble ladies. Hand over everything you’ve got.”

 

I let out an internal sigh.

 

‘Thugs making threats in a dark alleyway—what a cliché.’

 

I had known from the start that it was bait.

 

The cuts and bruises on Beake’s face and body looked fresh, and the boy’s face had been consumed by guilt.

 

It was obvious someone had forced him to lure us here against his will.

 

Using a child as bait to harm people—what vile, bottom-feeding scumbags.

 

“Did that child… really trick us? What do those men intend to do with us?”

 

Freesia’s voice trembled with fear.

 

The thugs shot sinister glances at Freesia, snickering among themselves.

 

I surreptitiously slipped out the self-defense dagger concealed at my waist. I had packed it just in case, but to think I’d actually have to use it.

 

I quickly sized up the thugs.

 

They had weapons like daggers and clubs tucked at their waists, but they didn’t even seem inclined to draw them. They were clearly underestimating us because we were women.

 

The men were practically oozing openings at a single glance.

 

They were probably used to strutting around the market, threatening weak folk to extort money.

 

One of them reached a filthy hand out toward us, taking a step closer.

 

“Hey, noble ladies, we’re harmless folks. Come with us for a bit. We’ll give you the absolute best treatment, khehe.”

 

“How dare you utter such filth! Do you have any idea who we are to treat us so recklessly?”

 

Freesia stepped forward, barking a stern reprimand at the thugs. Her hand holding mine was trembling faintly.

 

“It’s obvious you’re noble ladies. But don’t worry. Once you play with us, you high-and-mighty ladies will be brought down to our level, khehe.”

 

‘You filthy scumbags!’

 

Daring to openly harass us even while knowing we were noble ladies—these suicidal bastards must really throw their lives away like trash.

 

Biting my lip, I deliberately collapsed to the ground. Freesia gasped in shock, thinking I had fallen out of fear.

 

“Erika, are you all right?”

 

“Hehe, looks like the noble lady got so scared her legs gave out! This one’s pretty cute too, huh?”

 

I grabbed a fistful of sand from the ground and flung it straight into his face.

 

“Gah!”

 

With sand in his eyes, the thug staggered in agony. Taking advantage of the opening, I put all my weight into a kick aimed straight at his abdomen with my heavy heel.

 

“Guk!”

 

He let out a short scream and crumpled to the ground. Seeing this, the other thugs gasped in shock before erupting in rage.

 

“Y-You little bit—!”

 

Without hesitating, I grabbed Freesia’s wrist and started sprinting toward the exit of the alleyway.

 

“Run!”

 

“Those wenches dare?! Get them!”

 

The enraged thugs roared and gave chase.

 

As long as we got out of this alleyway, we’d be able to call for help from the crowd.

 

Wearing a heavy, trailing gown, Freesia gasped for breath, struggling to keep up. The thugs were already closing in right behind us, practically on the verge of grabbing us.

 

‘Damn it. Let’s get Freesia to safety first, then I’ll handle these thugs myself.’

 

Just then, two unfamiliar figures stepped up to block the mouth of the alleyway. Freesia cried out to them in desperation.

 

“P-Please help us! Those men are trying to harm us…!”

 

The thugs pursuing us skidded to a halt. Instinctively, they drew their crude weapons.

 

“Who the hell are you guys?”

 

Two men wearing deep-brimmed helmets with metal crests wore knight’s longswords at their waists and sported shoulder pauldrons over their armor.

 

At a glance, they looked like trained knights, but something felt strangely off about them.

 

‘My bad feeling is acting up.’

 

I tightened my grip on the dagger hidden behind my back. Cold sweat dripped down my spine.

 

The brown-haired man removed his helmet and bowed his head politely toward me.

 

A familiar crest engraved on the man’s armor caught my eye. It was the coat of arms of the Diel family.

 

“So the precious lady of the Diel Viscountcy was here. The Viscount has been searching for you anxiously.”

 

The man twisted his lips into a smirk. Nausea welled up in my stomach.

 

‘Out of the frying pan and into the fire.’

 

To think I’d run into Verdi’s lackeys here of all places.

 

I was amazed by the sheer persistence and obsession of that man—Verdi still hadn’t given up on me.

 

Occasionally, letters sent by Verdi arrived at the library. They were blackmail notes disguised as letters.

 

They demanded my return to the Viscount’s estate; I had torn the first letter to shreds right after reading it.

 

Ever since then, I had burned every subsequent letter the moment it arrived.

 

If it weren’t for all the overtime work, I would have settled my bad blood with Verdi long ago.

 

To think I couldn’t even get my revenge because I was too busy working—did that even make sense?

 

Freesia looked back and forth between me and Verdi’s men.

 

“My Lady? Are those men from Viscount Diel’s estate here to collect you, Erika?”

 

“Well, technically speaking, yes.”

 

Though calling it “collecting” was a stretch—it was more accurate to say they were here to drag me back by force.

 

“My Lady, please come with us peacefully. The Viscount instructed us to use any means necessary, so resisting might lead to a rather unpleasant experience.”

 

Verdi’s men maintained a polite demeanor on the surface, but their eyes were arrogant and insolent.

 

Freesia knit her brows as she looked at them. Taking a step forward, she delivered a firm, icy rebuke.

 

“Are you not knights? True knights ought to display chivalry by gladly aiding a lady in distress, yet how can you act so rudely?”

 

It was a sharp, dignified scolding fit for a Count’s daughter. Verdi’s men flinched for a moment.

 

Upon seeing Freesia—who clearly looked like a lady from a high-ranking noble family—they showed hesitation, afraid to act recklessly around her.

 

‘Wait, are these two the only men Verdi sent?’

 

Ever since earlier, I had felt a creepy, uncomfortable gaze watching me.

 

Ever since we stepped into the alleyway, that lingering gaze had been bothering me.

 

As my demonic power grew stronger, I had developed an instinctive awareness of murderous intent directed at me. It felt like sharp needles prickling against my entire body.

 

I glared at the lackeys. The aura radiating from these low-ranking ex-knights wasn’t the source.

 

Despite their bad attitudes, they really didn’t seem to have any motive other than dragging me to Verdi. Then who on earth was watching us?

 

“Are you the only ones sent under Viscount Verdi’s orders?”

 

“Yes, My Lady. Now, please follow us.”

 

One of the lackeys pretended to bow politely while roughly grabbing my wrist. Freesia tried to stop him, but the other lackey stepped in to block her path.

 

“We only need to take the young lady. As long as you stay quiet, no one will get hurt.”

 

Ultimately, the sigh I had been holding back burst through.

 

‘I tried to be patient, but do these guys take me for a push-over?’

 

Just as I was about to draw my dagger, three thugs stepped up to block our path. The guy I had dealt with earlier was still groaning on the ground.

 

“Hey, pal, don’t you guys know business ethics? Why are you messing around in someone else’s turf? Get the hell out!”

 

Verdi’s men distorted their faces in anger and drew their swords.

 

“Who the hell are you bastards to dare stand in our way?”

 

“You’ve lost your damn minds, not knowing who you’re dealing with.”

 

One of Verdi’s men pushed me behind him.

 

“My Lady, please step back for a moment. We shall handle these fools and escort you safely to the Viscount’s estate.”

 

Receiving help from Verdi’s lackeys—wonders never cease to exist.’

 

In the narrow alleyway, two of Verdi’s men and three thugs stood eye-to-eye in a tense standoff.

 

It was a volatile situation where the slightest movement from anyone would ignite a brawl.

 

Freesia clasped her hands tightly, observing the situation with fear in her eyes.

 

“What on earth is happening?”

 

“Well, grab some popcorn.”

 

“Pardon? What does that mean?”

 

“Let’s just watch the show. Where else would you get to see something like this? They say watching a fire or a fight break out is the most entertaining thing in the world.”

 

I flashed her a bright smile to reassure her, then whispered low into her ear.

 

“We’ll use the moment they start fighting to make our run for it.”

 

Clever as she was, she immediately caught on and gave a subtle nod. I leaned against the wall for a moment, casually watching them fight.

 

The thugs lunged forward with clubs and knives, while Verdi’s men swung their swords in counterattacks.

 

It looked like Verdi had bribed decent fighters; the fight was going to end quickly. That meant now was our cue to run.

 

I stole a glance toward the alleyway. I could still feel the murderous gaze locked onto me.

 

That gaze, watching from the shadows without stepping forward, felt unsettling. What on earth did they want?

 

“Eek!”

 

A fragile scream pierced my ears. One of the thugs had roughly grabbed Freesia’s arm.

 

The thug’s face was covered in blood, but his eyes burned with a dangerous, vicious madness.

 

‘Crap! I got distracted thinking and dropped my guard.’

 

It was the guy I had knocked down earlier.

 

Persistent bastard—how on earth did he get back up?

 

The thug pressed a knife against Freesia’s delicate neck. The blue-tinted blade caught the sunlight, flashing an ominous glint.

 

“Where do you think you’re going?! Nobody move! Or I won’t guarantee this woman’s safety!”

 

“You bastard, let her go right now!”

 

When I shouted, Freesia looked straight at me. I thought she would be terrified, but her face was filled with grim determination.

 

“I’m fine! Erika, hurry and run!”

 

“Don’t talk nonsense! As if I’d leave you behind!”

 

In my panic, informal speech slipped out. Freesia’s eyes widened, then folded slightly into a poignant, bittersweet smile.

 

I immediately pointed at Verdi’s men and barked an order.

 

“If you save that lady, I’ll walk to the Viscount’s estate on my own feet. So save her right now!”

 

The lackeys exchanged glances and immediately lunged at the thug holding Freesia.

 

The other thugs swung their daggers and clubs to block Verdi’s men.

 

“Die, you bastards!”

 

As chaos erupted, the thug holding Freesia slid backward.

 

While he was dodging an attack from one of Verdi’s men, I closed in on his side.

 

I instantly grabbed the arm holding the dagger and twisted it with force.

 

With my demonic strength, snapping a man’s arm was easier than snapping a twig.

 

“Gaaaah! My arm!”

 

The man clutched his broken arm, screaming in agony as his dagger clattered onto the ground. I hastily pulled Freesia away from him.

 

As the thug writhed in pain, I delivered a nimble kick to knock his hand away.

 

Then, pulling my leg back, I kicked him squarely in the face with full force.

 

Crack!

 

My foot landed directly on the thug’s mouth, accompanied by a dull crunch as his teeth shattered.

 

“Gaghhhh!”

 

He clutched his bloody mouth, rolling around on the ground in agony.

 

“You bastard, how dare you point a blade at Freesia?!”

 

I shouted, grinding my teeth at the fallen thug. Seeing me like this, Verdi’s men stood dumbfounded, tongues tied. The other thugs shrank back in fear, cautiously assessing the situation.

 

“Is there a show going on?! Get the hell out of here, you bastards!”

 

I threatened them while brandishing my dagger, but Freesia cried out from beside me.

 

“Watch your back!”

 

At that exact moment, a dagger was leveled at my neck.

 

The sharp, gleaming blade hovered precariously against my skin, barely a breath away. A cold, emotionless voice spoke from behind me.

 

“If you do not wish to have your throat slit, do not move, Lady Diel.”

 

A heavy sigh escaped my lips, deep enough to hollow out the ground.

 

‘Who on earth is it this time?’

 

Verdi’s men exploded in rage at the third assailant holding me.

 

“Who the hell are you?! Why are you threatening our lady?!”

 

For a brief second, I felt a touch of human warmth toward Verdi’s men.

 

What, were those guys actually worried about me even a little bit…?

 

“Because of you, our mission is getting delayed!”

 

‘Figures.’

 

What was I even expecting from those idiots?

 

The third assailant holding a blade to my throat let out a snort.

 

“I have business with this woman, so wait your turn. I will not take her life.”

 

One of Verdi’s men grinned menacingly, taking a step forward with his sword raised.

 

“Then I’ll just have to kill you first!”

 

Not to be outdone, the remaining thugs brandished their clubs, shouting noisy threats.

 

“Where the hell did all you bastards come from?! Get off our turf right now!”

 

Freesia looked at me with a face filled with fear and worry.

 

Her pale complexion had drained even further, looking so fragile she seemed ready to collapse at any moment.

 

As the three enemy factions glared at one another in a tense standoff, I sank into a serious internal dilemma.

 

‘I’m not even the protagonist—I’m just an ant-like extra! Why do I keep acquiring more enemies? I’ve done nothing but work diligently, commuting back and forth between the library and the mansion. Why on earth are there so many people holding grudges against me?!’

 

“Hey.”

 

I spoke coldly to the third assailant behind me.

 

“What is it, Lady Diel?”

 

“Don’t cut in line; go stand over there. Once I deal with those guys, it’ll be your turn. I happen to be quite popular with my enemies.”

 

“Hmm, you certainly have the nerve fitting of the Goddess of War.”

 

Judging by the position of the voice behind me, he was a tall man.

 

Based on his manner of speech and his unwavering, composed tone, he wasn’t a commoner—he was at least of the knightly class.

 

The hand holding the dagger was calloused, bearing scars left by sword training. These were marks seen on knights who had trained for many years.

 

If he were an official knight, he wouldn’t be threatening a noble lady in broad daylight.

 

In that case… a mercenary? Someone acting under orders from a client.

 

“Do not worry, Lady Diel. I have no intention of taking your life. I shall merely leave a mark upon your face.”

 

The tip of the assailant’s dagger poked lightly against my cheek. In an instant, my entire body went stiff.

 

“Who ordered you to do such a thing?”

 

“It is a rule never to reveal the identity of a client.”

 

‘Would it be faster to show everyone my wound healing in an instant, or to grab this guy by the neck and slam him into the ground?’

 

“No! How could you do something so cruel?!”

 

Freesia shouted, having overheard the assailant’s words. One of Verdi’s men also shouted through gritted teeth.

 

“How dare this scum attempt to touch our lady’s face! Do you want to die?!”

 

‘Wait a minute, since when did you guys become my loyal henchmen?’

 

Did Verdi order them not to leave a single scratch on my body? In case it damaged the “goods” for a forced marriage?

 

The assailant let out a low sneer and snapped his fingers.

 

A masked figure leaped down from the alleyway wall. Judging by his nimble movements, he appeared to be someone trained in knightly combat.

 

The masked figure immediately lunged at Verdi’s men and the thugs, taking them by surprise as they scrambled to fight back.

 

The clashing sound of sword against sword echoed through the alleyway.

 

Despite being a one-against-many fight, the masked assailant fought them effortlessly without giving an inch.

 

With no one left standing in front of us, the man holding me let out a chuckle.

 

“Lady, rest assured. It won’t hurt too much.”

 

The dagger leveled at my throat moved slowly toward my cheek.

 

I raised the dagger hidden within the folds of my skirt, keeping it out of his sight. Just then, Freesia stepped up to block our path.

 

A deep shadow fell across her face as she stood in the alleyway’s shade.

 

Her smooth brow twisted in rage. Her large violet eyes gradually turned into a bloodshot, crimson red.

 

A dark light flickered from her delicate fist, clenched so tightly that her veins stood out.

 

‘Is that light… mana? Did I missee it?’

 

Distracted by Freesia, I missed my timing to counterattack. The sensation of the blade touching the skin of my cheek felt bone-chilling.

 

Reflexively, I grabbed the assailant’s arm and twisted it with full force.

 

“Gaaaah!”

 

The assailant let out a scream of agony, but it was already too late.

 

His arm snapped, dangling uselessly, and the dagger fell to the ground.

 

‘Human bodies really are endlessly fragile.’

 

“Gghhh… H-How…?”

 

Contorted in pain, the assailant glared at me in sheer shock.

 

I twisted my lips into a sneering smile, throwing his own words back at him.

 

“Don’t worry. It doesn’t hurt too much, right?”

 

The rims of his eyes flushed red with fury. He raised his remaining hand, drawing a longsword to lunge at me.

 

‘To keep attacking even with one arm broken—impressive!’

 

Marveling inwardly, I took a step back to dodge his attack, only for my back to bump into something solid. It felt firm, like a man’s torso.

 

‘Don’t tell me… another enemy? Did everyone organize a group meetup today just to attack me?!’

 

“Erika, are you all right?”

 

A voice echoed right by my ear—so deeply familiar, gentle yet firm.

 

A large hand wrapped securely around my shoulder. Looking up, I caught sight of Calix’s sculpted side profile, dressed in a black uniform.

 

The sharp clash of metal echoed as his sword met the assailant’s blade. Dust rose from the bone-dry street.

 

Pushed back by Calix’s blade, the assailant groaned and staggered backward.

 

“Hmm, Lady Diel certainly remains as popular as ever.”

 

That distinctively sarcastic, low, and clear voice. For a second, I doubted my ears.

 

I whipped around to look—and there stood Franz, holding a sword in his hand.

 

Calix spoke succinctly to Franz, his arm still wrapped around my shoulders without loosening its grip.

 

“We must surround them until the guards arrive. Lord Schpern, I leave the young ladies to you.”

 

I had never imagined I would see Calix and Franz in the same place.

 

How did everyone end up here? Did someone attach a tracking device to me or something?

 

Franz gave a silent nod at Calix’s words. His gaze pierced into me like a sharp blade.

 

To be precise, he was staring fixedly at Calix’s hand, which was wrapped around my shoulder.

 

Why on earth? What was his problem?

 

Freesia stepped toward Calix, her face filled with deep emotion.

 

“Your Grace, you’ve come to save us.”

 

Calix gave a polite nod of greeting to Freesia. Yet he showed no intention of loosening the hand still wrapped around my shoulder.

 

I wished he wouldn’t act like this so openly, at least in front of Freesia.

 

I squirmed to break free from his grip, but it only tightened even more fiercely—like a man terrified that I might run away somewhere.

 

“I heard a suspicious noise while patrolling the capital. As I followed the sound, I happened to run into Young Lord Schpern as well.”

 

“I’m so glad you arrived in time. Those thugs were trying to harm Lady Diel.”

 

Calix’s icy gaze assessed the situation in the alleyway. Two thugs stood with swords raised, taking defensive stances with watchful eyes.

 

Behind them, Verdi’s lackeys and the street thugs cowered in fear, trembling nervously. Their faces were a mix of fluster and terror.

 

“I-Is that really the Grand Duke of the North here?”

 

“No way. Why would he show up in a place like this?”

 

Wearing his signature cold expression, Calix glared at them frostily.

 

At a single glance that seemed capable of severing their necks in an instant, the men turned pale with terror.

 

“Librarian Erika, why did those men attack you?”

 

“It’s a long story, but shouldn’t we talk after you let go of this hand first?”

 

Frowning, I tried to pry off his arm, which was clamping down on my shoulder like a shackle.

 

In response, Calix wrapped his arms around me even further, pulling me into a stance that was practically a backhug.

 

Looking down at me, the corners of his lips curved up softly.

 

“I’m afraid I can’t do that.”

 

“Guk!”

 

At that moment, a short, agonizing scream echoed through the air.

 

Two thugs lay collapsed at Franz’s feet. Red drops of blood dripped continuously from beneath Franz’s blade.

 

Franz used the tip of his boot to turn the collapsed thug’s face, checking his identity. He looked devoid of any emotion, as if he had merely stepped on an ant.

 

“Young Lord Schpern!”

 

Calix’s voice, thick with fury, thundered through the alleyway.

 

Ignoring the shout, Franz approached the thugs with his blood-dripping sword in hand. Like a butcher eyeing his next victim, his expression remained entirely blank.

 

In a flash, Calix rushed over to Franz and grabbed his wrist.

 

The sound of my rapidly beating heart echoed in my ears. It was the first time I had ever seen someone killed right before my eyes.

 

Faced with the raw brutality and vivid reality—the blood pooling across the stone pavement and the lifeless eyes of the dead thug—terror swept over me.

 

My hands trembled as if seizing. A shiver ran through my body, but at the same time, I felt a surge of burning heat welling up from within me.

 

I couldn’t even tell whether it was fear or ecstasy.

 

“Young Lord, why did you kill those men? We haven’t even confirmed their identities yet. Do you not know what consequences your cruel actions will bring?!”

 

Calix asked icily, suppressing his rage. Franz looked down at his wrist held by Calix, knitting his handsome brow in disgust.

 

He brushed off Calix’s hand with force. A sneer hung on Franz’s thin, pink lips.

 

“I merely killed a few vermin; what seems to be the problem?”

 

“Is that not a bit too hasty of an action?”

 

Freesia stepped forward with elegant grace. Her pristine white shoes stepped onto the blood-stained stone pavement.

 

She looked down at the dead thugs with an indifferent gaze, as if looking at stones on the side of the road.

 

“Though they deserve death, we have yet to identify who ordered them. It wouldn’t be too late to punish them after clearly revealing the identities of those who dared attack a noble lady in broad daylight.”

 

Having finished speaking, Freesia immediately walked over to my side.

 

“Erika, are you all right? You look so pale.”

 

She pulled out a lace handkerchief and dabbed away the cold sweat forming on my forehead.

 

Suddenly, I recalled the dark energy that had flickered around her hand when she confronted the thugs earlier. It had looked just like a surge of mana.

 

Did Freesia know how to use magic? There was no such setting in the original novel either.

 

“I’m fine. I was just a little startled. Are you okay, Freesia?”

 

“Yes. Thank goodness His Grace arrived in time.”

 

Just then, capital guards carrying spears ran into the alleyway in an orderly fashion.

 

As the thugs and Verdi’s lackeys tried to make a run for it, Calix delivered a frosty command.

 

“Do not move. Anyone who flees will be executed immediately on the spot in accordance with state law.”

 

Intimidated by his fierce presence, the terrified thugs and Verdi’s lackeys dropped their weapons and fell to their knees.

 

The guards bound them with ropes and led them away. As they were dragged off by force, Verdi’s lackeys looked at me, pleading desperately.

 

“My Lady, please have mercy!”

 

Of course, I pretended not to hear and merely shrugged my shoulders.

 

Calix approached the thugs killed by Franz, inspecting their faces and identities. His expression darkened into a deep scowl.

 

“They look like mercenaries. Did someone hire them to harm Librarian Erika?”

 

Franz calmly wiped the blood off his sword and sheathed it.

 

In the original novel, Franz was someone who never got blood on his own hands.

 

Because of his severe mysophobia and his personality of avoiding anything disadvantageous to himself, he always ordered subordinates to handle such matters.

 

Why on earth did such a man commit murder so blatantly right before Calix’s eyes?

 

Calix ordered the guards to dispose of the corpses. He then stepped up to Franz, looking down at him with an overbearing presence.

 

“Young Lord Schpern. You could have simply broken their arms and legs without killing them—why did you take their lives? Was it to silence them so the mastermind wouldn’t be discovered?”

 

Franz smiled composedly and turned his gaze toward me.

 

“Silence them, Your Grace? You do me a great injustice. They were atrocious scum trying to harm an innocent noble lady. I merely meted out appropriate punishment for the sake of Lady Diel’s honor.”

 

‘Well, isn’t this absolutely mind-boggling? Since when did he care so terribly about me that he acts this blatantly confident?’

 

Calix’s brow furrowed intensely. It was visible how much superhuman patience he was exerting.

 

“Report to the Capital Knights’ Headquarters tomorrow. I wish to hear your defense regarding your reckless actions today.”

 

Wearing a smooth, relaxed smile, Franz offered Calix a polite bow.

 

“I am grateful for Your Grace’s generous consideration. Then I shall take my leave. I happened to suffer an injury while fighting the enemy, you see.”

 

Franz ostentatiously displayed the blood on the back of his pale hand. Seeing his audacity in wrapping it up as if he were the one injured, when it clearly looked like the thug’s blood, made me click my tongue in disbelief.

 

As Franz took a step forward, the escort knights of the Duchy of Schpern rushed over. Escorted by his knights, Franz started walking out, only to pause beside me.

 

He whispered softly in my ear, as if confiding a secret meant only for the two of us.

 

“Why didn’t you use that power? Don’t tell me you wanted my help?”

 

As expected, this man knows about my power. He even picked up on the fact that I deliberately abstained from using demonic power.

 

To hide my inner turmoil, I deliberately put a sneer on my lips and spoke sarcastically.

 

“I’m so glad you arrived quickly. If you had been just a little later, I might have mistaken you for one of the thugs and committed a grave rudeness, Young Lord.”

 

Franz’s eyes folded softly into pleasant crescents.

 

“You still haven’t realized it, Erika—that you and I are already standing in the same place.”

 

Confused by the meaning of Franz’s words, I felt bewildered.

 

‘Are you saying that no matter how much I struggle to break free from you, I’ll just end up right back where I started?’

 

I caught my breath.

 

‘Not a chance in hell—things will never go according to your wishes.’

 

Glaring icily at Franz, I spoke with firm, deliberate emphasis.

 

“I’ll take care of my own business, so mind your own.”

 

Even though I had deliberately mocked him, Franz looked entirely unfazed. Instead, he stared at me intently with deeply sunken eyes.

 

Just then, Calix grabbed my shoulder and yanked me firmly into his embrace. Flustered by the sudden action, I couldn’t even pull myself away properly.

 

With a scowl on his face, Calix looked down at Franz with a deeply displeased gaze.

 

“Do you still have business left here, Young Lord?”

 

With an expressionless face, Franz looked at me, practically buried in Calix’s arms.

 

His violet eyes trembled minutely. Why?

 

After Franz departed with his subordinates first, Freesia and I stepped out into the bustling commercial district under Calix’s escort.

 

Dusk was gradually settling in. As twilight fell, the shops along the capital’s streets began to close down one by one.

 

Carriages moved busily on their way back, and lamp-lighters were diligently igniting the streetlamps along the promenade.

 

A carriage bearing the crest of the Rubel Count’s House was waiting in front of the shopping district. Spotting Freesia first, the coachman ran over and bowed in greeting.

 

Only then did Freesia offer a relieved smile.

 

“Our family’s carriage is here. Erika, I’ll drop you off at your residence.”

 

Before I even had a chance to answer, Calix spoke up first.

 

“I shall escort Librarian Erika myself. I will send guards for Lady Rubel, so please return home safely.”

 

‘Excuse me, what about my opinion? I want to ride in the carriage with Freesia.’

 

I tried to subtly voice my opinion, but Calix’s expression was stiff and resolute. His eyes looked thoroughly angry.

 

Was it because I came out to the shopping district without any escorts?

 

Still, I wanted to take Freesia’s carriage. If I were left alone with Calix right now, I felt like I’d be subjected to a terrifying nagging barrage.

 

Freesia’s expression stiffened slightly at Calix’s overly firm response. Soon, however, she wore a soft smile.

 

“Let us do as His Grace says, then. Thank you for providing escorts.”

 

She stepped up to me and took my hands in a tight grip.

 

“I’m so glad you’re safe. My heart was in my throat worrying that you might get hurt, Erika. Please take good care of yourself. I’ll see you at the ball.”

 

She held onto my hands as if we were parting forever.

 

The hand holding mine with such force felt strangely cold.