《The Grand Duke’s Little Lady》 Chapter 1 On a dark night, a mansion with magnificentparable to that of an imperial pce was sitting in still silence. The top of the tower was subtly shimmering in the moonlight. Locks of red hair blew fiercely in the wind against the jet ck sky. The Magician Ariel was waiting for an order. Enter Ariel had no choice but to obey themand ringing inside her head, as if she were cast under a spell. Kill them all. And a night of ughter began. Huff, huff. A small figure in a cape who had annihted thest of the knights breathed heavily. The cloak revealed a part of Ariels shaking hand. She could never get used to the psychological distress that apanied being forced to murder people against her will, no matter how many times she had to do it. No. This is thest time. I dont need to do this anymore, not anymore Soon, her body was bombarded with heavy pain that she couldnt breathe. It was the side effect of using her magic excessively. It hurt so much. Ariel barely managed to suppress a painful moan. Ugh- She was rolling up her back forward in pain when her body suddenly froze. The air around her had changed. When Ariel managed to raise her head to gaze forward, she saw a man. It was a very beautiful man. However, she sensed terrible danger from this man. An intimidating pressure, unlike anything she had encountered, gave her the impression that she was going to be crushed to death. The man approached her and removed her cloak from her head. The face of a small red headed girl was revealed in the moonlight. The man held out his hand. Let me help. Please Ariel slowly took his hand. But Ariels heart, which was under the influence of a viin, burst that very moment. Thest thing Ariel remembered was her vision became stained red and slowly fading away. * * * She thought that was the end of her life when She was in a cold attic when she opened her eyes. This is Its the attic in the Marquiss house that I grew up in. It was a ce filled with haunting memories that she couldnt forget even if she wanted to. Ariel looked down to her body. When she moved, loose clothes slid off the thin little girls shoulder. Is this a dream? Am I dreaming after I died? None of this felt real. She was sure that her heart had burst and that she died. But how? She pulled her clothes back up and opened her hands in front of her eyes. She saw a pair of hands that were much fairer and much smaller that she remembered. What is this? Why did my body suddenly be so small? What was even more rming than her shrunken body was the inside of her body. Ariel fumbled around her neck. My throat was always sore from blood soaring up into it. The painful feeling was gone. She was confused that the pain that had been controlling her for the past 3 years had suddenly vanished. Ariel put her tiny hands onto her stomach and felt it. A small growl came from her body that was so gaunt that her ribs were exposed. Im hungry. This was also strange. It had been a long time since Ariel had felt something called hunger. As a result of her repeated use of offensive magic having had her internal organs progressively corroded away, Ariel had been unable to properly digest food. As she ate less and less, perhaps a part of her brain that triggers hunger was damaged, she came to a state in which she could not feel hunger even until the point she copsed from malnutrition. Ariel carefully lift up her clothing to examine her leg. When she saw her exposed leg, she gasped. My leg is Her left leg that was crippled when she was being beaten by her father Intact. Suddenly, she was breathless. Is this really a dream? If it is, how can this be so realistic? Panting, Ariel raised her hand in front of her rapidly beating heart. Its gone. A stupefied, childlike voice slipped out of her mouth. That which had been in her hearts ce was gone. Undyrs curse. The cursed jewel that had been embedded in her heart causing continuous pain had disappeared. Ariel jolted up on her feet out of disbelief. Then, she took hurried steps with her now-childlike legs to the attic window. Year 809 of the Aurelian calendar December? What Ariel was looking at was the markings that she had made every day on the windowsill in order to keep track of her age and the date. The markings which Ariel had personally made every single day until she left the Marquiss house when she was 14 years old was no doubt urate. But the markings which should have continued until the spring of the year she was 14 years oldwas only marked until the winter of the year she was 9 years old. ording to the records, she had traveled back 8 years in time. So I am now back to when I was 9 years old? * * * Arie Lucillion. The only daughter of the Marquis Lucillion family. Ariel was ten years old when everything started to go wrong. Ariel was the second and youngest child of the Marquis Lucillion Family. She had one older brother, who was a half-brother with a different mother. After Marquis Lucillion lost his first wife, he remarried with a young woman who was over ten years younger than him. The second Marchioness, nche, was a stunningly beautiful woman with gleaming blonde hair. The Marquis being an old man with gloomy bronze hair, the two were rather a mismatch couple. nche gave birth to a baby two years after she came into the Marquisate family. Unfortunately, she died while giving birth to her baby. The baby that nche left when she died was a girl with red hair and skin as white as snow, Arie. It could have been expected that a man is endearing to his daughter left behind by his deceased wife, but the Marquis hated Ariel. It wasnt because of another cliched reason that he couldnt love the child because his wife died giving birth to her but rather because of Ariels physical appearance. A redheadedgirl? Ariel did not inherit her mothers brilliantly blonde hair. Her hair was a vivid, scarlet red. One thing to note here is that those of Lucillion bloodline all inherit bronze hair. Ariel inherited neither her mothers color, nor her fathers. This girl is not my daughter. The Marquis imed that Ariel was not his daughter. The Marquis was enraged thinking that his wife had had an affair with another man, but the Marchioness who could rify this issue was dead and gone. The Marquis, saying that this was an issue with his pride on the line, tried to find Ariels father. Unfortunately, the Marchioness had rarely left the mansion when she was alive and there were no male residents in the mansion with red hair. There werent any men with auburn hair or orange-toned hair in the mansion either who could have possibly fit the picture with a bit of a stretch. Unable to find the father, the Marquis put down Ariels name in the family registry to protect his dignity. However, she was locked up in a secluded attic in the mansion. It was an empty room without even a small mirror. Rumors began to circte amongst social circles about why the daughter of the Marquis, who is of such high degree, did not socialize with any of her peers. Some said that Ariel was monstrously ugly, while others imed that she had a nasty disease. The Marquis who unwillingly acknowledged Ariels existence, never mentioned her in front of others nor did he refute any of the malicious gossip regarding her. Ariel grew up silently in the attic as if she was someone who didnt exist. As she was always beaten by her fathers fists, the young girl could only think that she was hideous. Her scarlet hair which was said to be extremely rare had always enraged her father. The Marquis would be consumed by rage whenever he caught sight of Ariels red hair or her crimson blood, and hurl his fists at her like a madman. It was inevitable that young and inexperienced Ariel came to think that her scarlet hair was something that was abnormal and wrong. It would have been nice if I had bronze hair like my older brother, Jerome. He was a pathetic older brother who only wasted his time trying to bully her every chance he got but she envied him. Ariel had repeatedly daydreamed like this every day. That if she had the same colored hair as her father and her brother, she wouldnt have been beaten or tormented like she had been. That she would have also been a lovable child. But not anymore. Ariel said to herself in her mind with a sigh. Even servants rooms were heated warm during the winter in the Marquiss mansion, but the little girl in the attic could see her own breath pouring out into the air. Ariel gathered her hands and produced a small ball of mana at her fingertips. It was a small and weak ball of mana, but it was enough to temporarily unfreeze her frozen fingers. This was the only skill that she had right now. Magic. Ariel was a child who congenitally possessed mana in her body. * * * Magic was a very precious gift in the empire. Only those who were born with mana could use magic. Those select few could be either get jobs in the magic tower be royal magicians or elect to be a pharmacist in viges or cities. Ariel did not have such choices. It wasnt only when she was seen by the Marquis that he beat her with his fists. He hated Ariels ability to use magic. This was because the Marquis jumped to the conclusion that Ariel inherited this gift from an unknown adulterer. When in fact, magic had nothing to do with heredity. That is the ability of the devil. Once he dered this, the Marquis beat Ariel every time she used her magic. Young Ariel who did not learn how to control mana had a tendency to identally release mana when she was in danger or when she desperately desired something. Until she turned nine years old, there wasnt a day that she didnt have bruises and scars on her body. Ariel didnt even receive proper medical attention. The Marquis was wealthy but things that Ariel received were poor. The maids didnt look after her and her father and brother extremely disliked spending money on her. Shabby clothes, dreadful meals, and the small s.p.a.ce in the attic was all that she was allowed to have. She lived her life being beaten and abused like this until that happened. As any other day, the door to her attic was securely locked. That is, until her brother Jerome decided to set a hunting dog loose in the attic through the ceiling door. Woof, woof woof! Grrrrrrrr ced in front of the nine year old girl, the hunting dog drove her into a corner as it drooled profusely through its teeth. Bite! Go on, bite her! Inside the tiny s.p.a.ce of the attic. There was nowhere for Ariel to run, and as she became desperate, her mana transported her to another ce. Oh, dear me! The only problem was that of all the ces that she could have been teleported to, she ended up right in front of Duke and d.u.c.h.ess Monica, who were guests of the Marquis. Chapter 2 Trantor: ToastyTea Proofreader: Arie Bee Oh my goodness! At the d.u.c.h.ess surprised scream, The Marquis grabbed the nape of Ariels neck. I dont know why this child is here. Haha. After the Marquis caught Ariel, he looked back at the room that was tightly shut and gritted his teeth. He, then, put his young daughter back in the room. Well talk about thister. That night. Bang. The attics wooden door suddenly opened with a loud bang. Inside, a little girl, Ariel froze in fear. In front of the slightly opened door, a persons figure casted a shadow. I thought I told you not to be seen by anyone. It was her father, Marquis Lucilleon. You could smell the strong scent of alcohol rum from him and Ariel had a feeling this wasnt going to end well. I told you to stay quietly in your room. The Marquis grabbed the vase in the hallway outside of the attic and as soon as Ariel breathed in, the vase hurled towards her and crashed right next to her head. Puk. Crash! The vase the Marquis threw hit the wall right next to Ariel and waspletely shattered. Ariel shut her eyes, her bodypletely tense. The Marquis then came close to her and said But, you just had toe out and see the Duke and d.u.c.h.ess Monica and even locked eyes with them? Ariel opened her mouth in an attempt to say something but closed it right after. It was not wise to say something as an excuse. She did not intend toe out because she wanted to, but because of the prank, Orabi Jerome had yed on her that made her run out. But even if she tried to exin, the Marquis would just undoubtedly get angrier. And you also did something strange again. You came out of the room. I told you that a devil like you should keep out of my sight! Ariel put her feet together and moved her body away. This was an attempt to get farther away from the Marquis but the shard of the broken vase was stuck in Ariels bare feet and was bleeding profusely. Ouch! The blood dripped down from her small pale feet. There was blood on the edge of the broken .s.s and the look in Marquis Lucilleons eyes changed when he saw it. It was the most malicious look that anyone has ever seen. Knowing what would happen next, Ariel fumbled through the dark attic and fled to the corner. ng! The Marquis then grabbed her hair and Ariel was suddenly overwhelmed of the pain of her hair being pulled. Its a disgusting color. So utterly disgusting. The Marquis, who repeatedly mumbled the same line over and over again, pulled Ariel out of the attic by the hair. When she was being pulled down the stairs, it was very painful. But Ariel did not utter a single sound. Ariel knew from experience that if she made more noise and pleaded for him to stop, he would still continue and would be much worse. The Marquis brought Ariel to his study and pulled out a ring. His ring was gold-ted with a seal and arge jewel on it. Usually, the hitting and punching wouldst for an hour or two, but on that particr day, itsted even longer than usual. Ariel held back her breath and eventually pa.s.sed out. She was then brought back to her roomter that night and the next day Ariels leg became disabled.The Marquis got angry and said, That useless b.i.t.c.h is now a limp as well! I was going to get rid of you by selling you off by means of political marriage. Tsk. But now thats even impossible as well! Even though the Marquis had no regards for his daughter, he wanted to send her off to another n.o.ble family through political marriage and make at least a little bit of money off of her. But the Marquis could not send her away through political marriage because of her disabled leg. Since the n to send Ariel away through political marriage failed, he decided to sell her away instead. Ariels young and inexperienced magic may have been insignificant to the family, but her talent in magic was so unique it became valuable as her magic was not used for good and was the evilest magic anyone can ever acquire. He wanted to take her mana and make a mana stone. Eventually, after some time, the Marquis could not take anymore magic from her, but he continued to do that even though he was wealthy enough. He thought Ariel would take revenge on him when she got full control of her powers and he feared that she would leave him behind. At that time, Ariel was just a young child who wanted to be useful in order to gain her fathers love and so a few years went by, and she was now 14 years old. Then He came to Ariel. He had said that the mana stones Ariel made were special and asked the Marquis for her. When the Marquis refused, He offered him a huge sum of money right in front of her, and she saw how she was bargained for and eventually was sold to him and followed him back. Then, the Marquis made up an excuse saying that Ariel was sick and she had to leave their home to seek immediate attention. For the first time, Ariel had left the Marquis and her family. And from that day on, she had fallen into a h.e.l.l far more worse than before. The first thing He did was put inside Ariels heart a jewel that contained the Curse of Undir. The jewel had a spell casted inside of it, which made the person who casted the spell control the body of those who had the jewel inside of them. Young and powerless, Ariel did not what it was and what it could do. From then on, the cursed jewel continued to live inside her heart. He then ordered Ariel to learn magic as there were many other mages at hismand that were capable of teaching her. As she learned more and more magic from them, Ariel realized that they needed her power. The amount of mana she had was immeasurable and they saw her ability and potential with magic. Not very long, she became the strongest mage in the group at just 14 years old. She only learned how to attack and curse with her magic. Ariel became stronger day by day, but the more powerful magic she uses, her body only got weaker and weaker and it only damaged her body. Ariel often threw up blood and as time went on, she felt that her blood, flesh, and bones had deteriorated. Even so, she could not stop. Ariel was continuously being controlled and He used her mana at his disposal. At first, it was interesting for Ariel how her magic grew, but it was too strong and she feared it would only bring harm to others. The magic was hurting her and she was being forced to use her magic without rest and just like that Ariel had spent 3 dreadful years with him. Her mind, body, and soul were now all messed up and when she had turned 17 years old and now close to bing an adult, she was given a very important mission. She had a minor a.s.signment before, but this time it was special. He promised that if shepleted the mission, he would take the Curse of Undir out of her and gave her the a.s.surance that the promise would remain in effect even until her death. Atst, Ariel had hope. Ariel pushed her body to the limit and broke into the ce she was told to and killed all the people present. It was only after she met a young man with ck hair and dark blue eyes that she found out that he was the Duke La Carte. You killed all the lions of La Carte. What are you? Ariel couldnt utter a word. The Empires only Grand Duke, La Carte. The La Carte family was so powerful that even a three year old child would recognize who they are. Even if Ariel had lived inside the attic of the Marquis all her life and had no contact with the outside world, she still knew about the Duke La Carte. There was simply no one in this world that had more power and wealth other than the La Carte family. The man with ck hair leaned leisurely against the tall window frame. The blood of the deceased knights formed into a puddle and the girl who killed them was in front of him, yet the both of them were not tense. So the sight felt even more appalling. . When the Duke looked at Ariel, it felt as if he was being hunted. His body froze when she looked at him as he looked into her eyes. Ariel gritted her teeth and made sure he saw it but she was sure that it didnt affect the predator that was in front of her. He would have no chance against her and should fear death. Just who was he? Did he not care about those knights in front of him? The Duke in front of her was young, but to her he looked like a lion cornering her like a mouse. That every molecule of air, light, and dust in the s.p.a.ce were shouting that this man was dangerous. The Duke leaning on the window frame came a step closer to her. Ariel, terrified, wanted to use her magic to attack him but her body was unable to move. The atmosphere felt heavy because of all the pressure the Duke gave out. It suddenly felt as if gravity had gotten three or four times stronger. He reached for Ariels hoodie and took it off because it was drenched with blood. In that moment, the Duke felt embarra.s.sed. As soon as the hood was taken off, Ariel felt ashamed of her red hair. It was definitely weird and ugly. You. The Duke returned to hisposure and had this cold look in his eyes and asked her a question in a monotone voice. How old are you? She was about to turn seventeen years old soon but because of the constant abuse and neglect, Ariels body had stopped aging at twelve years old. Youre really too young. He said slowly in a dangerously mesmerizing voice. He had the voice of a ruler. Ariel snapped back to her senses and created a huge magic sphere in her hand. The reason why she was there in the first ce was because of her mission to kill everyone on site. If she kept with this any longer, her body will not be able to withstand anymore. When he saw the giant ck lump in her hands he did not even bat an eye nor change the look in his eyes. It was as if her effort was futile and it did not work on him. Ariel was angered by this and as soon as she was about to throw the magic sphere at him, she heard the Dukes voice. I will help you. Ariel stopped. She did not understand. She had killed all the knights in hismand and murder was a crime not to be forgiven no matter how old you may be. Above all.. This was the first time Ariel had heard anyone offer their help. Chapter 3 Are you going to help me? Even when she was beaten down by her own father, even when she was bullied by her brothers as if she was an animal, no one wished to help. When he nted the cursed jewel inside her heart, when she was shivering after killing someone for the first time, no one even bothered. But will he help her? It wasnt something a man who should want revenge of his fellowrades would say. She couldnt trust him. But when Ariel waited for a moment, all the dark mana in her hand was drained to the mans sword. Ariel was astonished to see this. The man took out his hand, instead of a dangerous weapon. Hold my hand. He had amanding tone of voice but it suited him. Ariel bit her lips and gazed his blue eyes. He sure didnt look like he was lying. However, after she get this work down she could finally get away from the curse of Undir. Great suspicion rose in her mind. Do you really think he will let you go? It was the question she had long been avoiding. Because she wanted to keep her hope, also this time he wrote the magical contract, she just believed she could escape from it. She had been his ve for three whole years. Greed and hatred. He looked as if he was made of evil. She finally acknowledged. He will never let Ariel go. She will be his ve forever. No, not anymore. Ariel reached for the man with ck hair who was in front of her. His long big hand grabbed her small pathetic hand. She grasped his hands tightly like it was a rope of redemption. She made eye contact with the man who was way taller than her. Even though she never experienced what beauty was, his eyes were perfect. Ariel soon died and fell to the ground. It was the curse of Undir in her heart. After she woke up, she noticed she was in the Marquis Castles attic bedroom. Ariel absently looked herself. Her small hands were like a maple leaf and her small foot like a rabbit. Her short legs and arms were a way lower view than usual. She was definitely seventeen years old at that time. But suddenly, she went back to time and she now was eight years younger than before, Even though it was an early morning, the butler who doesnt sleep much was going across the garden. He.He definitely died before I left the Marquiss Castle. The fat middle-aged butler who was never nice to Ariel died after falling from thedder. But he is still alive now. She also couldnt find the statue of the Marquis that was built when Ariel was thirteen years old. And that is. Ariel blinked absently after seeing ck ponies on the side of the garden and the cattle connected to them. Jerome used to y with them. It was an expensive gift given to Jerome who was three years older than her after he begged the Marquis to buy it for him. She remembered herself when she was locked in the attic room and she used to watch Jerome ying with his dark ponies. She suddenly realized all of this is her new reality. Does that mean all of the memories until she turned seventeen was a dream? Ariel operated the attack magic she knew. Tiery. After she read out the spell she could feel the wave of mana flowing inside her body. Ouch. She stopped operating the spell. Huh..Huh. It worked! She could operate a high .s.s attack spell she could never use when she was nine years old. Her body was too weak to endure the spell so she was in pain. Ariel was confident that all the memories were not a dream. Whatever the cause, she must have traveled back time with her memories. Just before her twelfth birthday, when everything went wrong. How is this possible? I was dead for sure. When she reached for the hand of the ck haired man her heart was destroyed. Maybe he must have put on a spell to operate the curse when Ariel betrays him. Ariel shivered remembering the pain of the feeling of her heart being torn apart. Ariel put both of her hands to her heart in order to get away from fear and felt her regr heartbeat. Its running well. The heart of her nine year old self still hasnt experienced that pain. So I can change it. Ariel said to herself. And she kept tracking down her memories. Her past. All of the time, she thought was past soon became her future. As she already knew the future, she should be able to predict everything that was going to happen ande up with the right decision. Still, I dont know much yet. She was inside the Marquis attic bedroom until she was fourteen years old and she was controlled by him until she was seventeen so she knew nothing about the world. Even though she traveled through time, she wasnt informed of any events or trends in the upper .s.s. But my life needs to. Ariel grasped her skinny heart with her small hands. Even though she couldnt influence anyone, she still had the ability to change her own life. At least she could save herself. That was all Ariel needed. First I have to get out of this castle. If she would stay here, she will only lose one leg and eventually be sold to the devil after being used by the family. . Ariel gazed at her legs as if she was remembering the past. Her malnourished body was skinny like a fawns body. At least, she still wasnt a cripple. I only have one week. Only one week was left till that incident. After six days, she would be ten years old. On that day, she loses her leg. Not only because she embarra.s.sed the Marquis in front of everyone, it was also because she knew how to use magic. Actually, she was beaten because of her existence. Even though she got away with the trouble, she would soon be a cripple anyway. I dont want to repeat all of this. Ariel clenched her soft hands. Before, she craved love from her father and her brother. She sincerely wanted to be a part of the family. Once she tried to change the color of her hair by using poor magic and failed. Still, her father and brother never epted her as their family. I will never be abused, used, and abandoned again. Ariel clenched her small fists. She decided to never crave love from her family. That was the start. Everything in her life depended on how she acted from now on. Everything was unsure but one thing was definite: I will be beaten by my father and be a cripple after just one week. She had to stop it first. As far as Ariel knew, there was only one way for her to get away from her fathers influence. Marriage. The ten years old Arie Rucilion decided to marry someone. Marriage. Ariel quietly said it out loud. By marriage, she didnt mean a serious rtionship with a person she loved. She needed someone to protect her until she turns eighteen. She would satisfy the needs of her husband in return. It would be a contract marriage. Ariel approached the window. She could see a small girl reflecting the window. Ariel slowly put her hands on herself through the window. Her scarlet clear red hair grew down to her wrist. She could also see a skinny face as she was never treated well. Even the pale light in the midnight couldnt cover up Ariels transparent skin that looked like snow. Her eyes were colored in strawberry red. Even though her lips were chapped from the cold, it still remained pink. Her face that still looked like a baby was lovely. Nheless, Ariel sighed as she believed she was ugly. Even though I traveled back to time, I still look strange. Even though its a contract marriage, she still had to marry someone. She was anxious since she thought she was ugly. Until she turned seventeen, she had never showed her face to anyone. When she stayed in the Marquiss castle, she was locked up so she never saw anyone else. After she was sold to him she had to hide her face because she had to hide the fact she was the daughter of Marquis Rucilion. That was his orders but Ariel was happy with that too. She was a child, a girl, a cripple and even ugly so she never wanted anyone to know how she looked like. But I cant hide my face to the person Ill be married to. Ariel already erased the reflection of herself in the window. She just wished her husband wont take appearance as a downside to the marriage. Thew for marriage was as following: A girl could get married after turning ten years old and boys had to be twelve. The parents had to approve for the marriage of a minor. Ariel was ten years old and she had to go through her tenth birthday to marry anyone. That meant escaping this ce would have to be after her birthday. When would be the best time? When the Marquis was too busy to notice Ariel is missing, she had to escape at that time. Ariel acknowledged this after thinking deeply. Chapter 4 Ah! Itll be when the Marquis guestse over. The mansion will be too busy to entertain guests, and there will be plenty of food and workers, so even a young girl like her could sneak out and no one would even notice. The only day when the Marquis was going to entertain visitors was that very specific day. The day the Duke of Monica and his wife visits Orabi Jeromes terrible joke that caused the incident started around night time so she just needed to get out before then. Luckily, the day the Duke and d.u.c.h.ess of Monica visited was just a day after her 10th birthday, so a marriage proposal was possible. Without even giving it a second thought, Ariel nned to escape that day. Parental consent. Her father, Lucilleon, did not want to let the public know about her. Not to mention, he also did not want to lose control of her magical powers. Naturally, she could have agreed to the wedding. If so, then my marriage partner should be someone more powerful than my father. In order to get Ariel out of the Marquiss hands, her marriage partner must be someone who had a higher position than the Duke. Among them, they had to decide whom they would marry by contract. Ariel, who is covered in dust, stood at the corner of the attic, and reached out to one of the books. They didnt give her any s.p.a.ce for food, but the genealogy of each family was taking up the s.p.a.ce of the whole attic. Still, she was lucky to enough to have ess to a genealogy. As she opened the book, dust rose and filled the dark room. Cough, cough. Ariel coughed and began reading it. In the empire, there was one Grand Duke and three Dukes. Ariel began to trace the family line with her small finger. Unmarried man, unmarried man. Ariels face darkened as she read the genealogy out loud. Even when there were enough descendants of the three Dukes there was no man of simr age to marry Ariel. The sons of the old Duke were all married or was out of the country, and his grandchildren were even too young to be married. My eyes got bitter. Should I remain in the hands of the Marquis? Even though I know Ill get beaten? Or do I have to use magic to attack with this weak body and risk my life to get away from our house? With the magic present in Ariel, her father could have overpowered all the other n.o.bles. Of course, with this body, Im sure Ill fall short even for just a few seconds. If she cant develop her own magic abilities and fail to even escape, the Marquis will surely not let Ariel off. But if she knew how to do a proper attack using her magic They would all die in my hands. Ariels mastery of attack was not suitable. After all, there was no other way but to kill them. Then all that would remain would be a small little girl who became a murderer at the age of nine. No, you cant Unlike in the past, Ariel no longer wanted the affection of her father and Jerome, but she did not want to kill either of them. I just want to get away from this cruel and frightening abuse. In addition, this time, he would have a chance to die because his body couldnt hold out due to my magic. She didnt want to die in vain again. A thick book flowed down from Arielsp and she casually picked it up and read the t.i.tle. [La Carte Family] La Carte. Mumbling a little she said, The past has pa.s.sed by in a sh. Previously, she had done what she did without knowing it was the residence of the Grand Duke La Carte, and Ariel had killed all the knights present during that eventful day. And that guy Ill never forget Ariel read the genealogy, feeling her heart sink. Unlike the genealogy of the other families who had many branches, the Grand Dukes was almost straight. Now, looking at the bottom. Ah. there it is. There was an unmarried man that was a descendent of the Grand Duke. The son of Elwin La Ratchet. [Lucian Desmond Le Ratchet] Looking at the genealogy, he was 4 years older than her. Its possible that a man can marry at 12 years of age. Then when the sun would change and Ariel would finally be 10 years old, both are definitely old enough to marry. And since the two are still underage, divorce was still possible when they became adults. Instead of allowing a marriage to happen at a very young age, the Emperor gave everyone the opportunity to decide once more when the couple involved have turned into an adult. If they want to continue on with their marriage, they will have to renew their marriage vows, but if they want to annul their marriage, the couple can divorce without any procedure. In a n.o.ble family, it is normal to have contract marriages to give benefit for both families, and then they would divorce as soon as they turn into adults. I found it. Ariels heart was filled with hope. Ive found someone who could marry me. Unfortunately, it was from the genealogy on the La Carte Family. But, how would I meet with the Grand Dukes Son? This was a serious problem. Ariel did not know much about the Aristocratic Society since she spent 17 years of her life in the attic, but she knew meeting with such a man would not be an easy task. Even if its in vain, it would still be better. Then Ariel thought of the ck haired man she met during that time. She didnt know who it was, but she a.s.sumed it was probably one of the knights. The voice she heard before she died Ill help you. He said to Ariel that he would help. Despite the fact that he already knew what she was capable of and how hideous she looked. Above everything else, he did not even know a single thing about her. If I go into town.will I be able to see that person? When she thought of it that way, she did not need to n anymore. Ariel bit her small lips. Ill use whatever I have to get out of here and go to town. Ariel thought of a n and went over it until the day before she was going to run away. She had spent the year memorizing every detail of the house. She even had memorized when the maids would wake up and did what first, and what door the servants came and left. The Marquis maid, and the housemaids would often rest on the stairs next to the attic without the butler knowing. Ariel had heard everything that the maids were talking about when they took their break. Because shes just a child who isnt treated like one, it wouldnt matter if she heard what we said. Ariel used every information she obtained to make an escape route.Her only problem was how she was going to get out of the attic. Because the attic door was tightly locked, she wouldnt be able to get out if she wont use her magic. But I am not good at moving magic, Ariel felt how ipetent she was in the past. She was powerful but, she did not learn any magic to protect her body nor how to manipte objects. The magician He always did the manipting magic and let Ariel settled into battle with her offense magic. The fourteen year old Ariel somehow did not think that was weird. Because she thought it was better than putting up with the Marquis in the h.e.l.l like ce she called home. The young and naive to the outside world, Ariel, did whatever he told her to do even if it was bad.She didnt know that it was to make sure she wont be able to learn how to protect herself. Ill do it even if I make mistakes. Ill do it. Because this has to change. Before this, Ariel did not try the things she couldnt do. She was afraid of failing. She feared that If she failed, everyone would think badly of her. She feared that theydugh and ignore her like Orabi Jerome or hit Ariel like her father did. So, she only did the things she was good at. She hated the things she couldnt do and avoided it. He had told her that his other magicians already knew how to attack using magic and Ariel believed him and learned a different type of magic instead. The truth was that Ariel was afraid that she wouldnt be able to do anything good. Now, I dont even have anywhere else to escape to. So Ariel had decided to try everything. If it doesnt work Ill try again, and if it doesnt work after that Ill try again and again. If it doesnt work even then Ill try once more. This small body of hers is not able to take in mana properly but if she does not try to escape this ce, her body would get damaged even more. I only need to seed one out of all the experiments. Ill be able to get out If I do escape this ce the Grand Dukes ce wont be that far. The estate of the Grand Duke is far from the capital, but their mansion is in the capital, just like the Marquis mansion. And then after that.. I havent thought of a n to get inside after I got out of the mansion. Lets think about it then. She wrapped her body in a rough nket to endure the cold. Ariel, exhausted by the cold, gazed out of the window with a tearful eye. The full moon looked down on her as if she was as little as a cold nail. Ah,e to think about it Todays my birthday. Ariel forgot about her own birthday because she was too focused on escaping. She whispered to herself, Happy birthdayhappy birthday. Her small heart throbbed. I am now 10 years old. Mom, Ari Lucilleon is 10 years old. This was her second time to have her 10th birthday, but this one hase a long way for her. For Ariel, 10 was a miracle number. The only candle of hope that will get me out of here. Ariel, whos eyes were full of moonlight instead of birthday candles, closed her eyes. Ten candles were in front of her and she gathered her cold, twisted hands. I have a wish. I made a wish on every birthday but. I never made a wish until I was 10 years old. I hope youll listen to it this time. I want to live differently than my past life. Huh. Ariel blew the imagery candles in her head and blew at the wind and the little girl soon put herself into deep slumber. So, the life of Ariel, a 10 year old girl, began to change. END OF CHAPTER 4. Chapter 5 Everyone in the house was busy from the morning because it was the day that the Duke and d.u.c.h.ess Monica would be visiting. Hurry up you slugs! Well bete in preparing the lunch feast! The head maid and butler raised their voices and nagged the workers. Ariel took a spoonful of a somewhat burnt, cold grain porridge and put it in her mouth. Ugh. The food was always pretty bad but it seemed even worse today. Probably because the kitchen is busy today. But being hungry is scary. Ariel ignored the disgusting vour and pushed another spoonful into her mouth and chewed. Ariels existence in the Lucilleon family was a very iffy and an unconfortable thing. Although her real status was that of a high Marquis daughter, but because she was not regarded as a daughter in the household, the people in the house treated her even worse than they treated maids. Maids actually help to do work, but you cant even make that annoyingdy do any work. Ariel had heard the servants and maids say this multiple times. They also often said it out loud on purpose for her to hear. Every time she heard this, her small shoulders would shrink. If the Marquis or his son got mad that the servants were treating Ariel this way things would be different. But Ariels father and brother did not care at all, they actually frowned if anyone treated her well. Because of this, the food and clothing given to Ariel, and the attic she lived in were all in a terrible state. It was considered good if she received the leftover foods from the servants, and she often could not see any food way past mealtime. Ariel finished the entire bowl of porridge and waited patiently for the house to be more busy. She also didnt forget to hide her eye-catching red hair with a bandana. There usually werent young maids present in the house, but Ariel had heard that a few young servants and maids had been hired to do small tasks. Because Ariels appearance was pretty worn out, if she walked by quietly with the bandana hiding her hair, they would think she was a maid and would not interfere. Ariel waited until the maids were at their busiest time and took her small hands to the door. She inhaled and imagined the route she would take in her head. Rizma. When she cast the spell she could feel the mana moving inside her body. She could also feel it taking a toll on her health. Ariel got sucked up into the walls, and she was thrown back out into the air. In a very rough, unkind way. Atst, Ariel was able to escape the locked attic. She had seeded after multiple trials risking her life. Aftering out, Ariel realized that she could not use magic anymore. I didnt even get out of the gate yet. It was even harder to stand up straight. Even standing in a good posture and breathing was beginning to be difficult for her. Her soft, white forehead began forming sweat drops. A ten year olds body was much weaker and easier to break than she had expected. A piece of mana that had been pulled out by force violently went back through her bloodstream as if it was mad. Haa, heuk, haa. Ariel grabbed onto her chest with her small hands and hurried her wobbling legs. It was obvious she would faint if she used magic, so she had to walk her way out. Once she got to the gate, the gatekeepers blocked her way. Where are you going? Ariel put her head down and mumbled that she was going on an errand as if she was a new maid. There seemed to have been many maids going back and forth for errands, because the gatekeeper opened the small door for her with an annoyed expression. Relieved that the gatekeeper didnt recognize her, Ariel was about to step out. Hey, Jeff, Phew. Theres going to be two bags of raisinsing in in a little bit. Check properly before you let them in. The fat butler said as he came up to the gatekeeper. Yes, butler. Huh, whats with that maid? Why is she leaving at such a busy time? She seems to be a maid they hired just for today in the kitchen. I let her out because she said she was on an errand. The butler did not take his eyes off of the girl even after the gatekeeper had exined. Isnt she a bit too small to be a maid? She looks seven years old at most. We dont hire kids that young even if werecking workforce. The youngest maid is thirteen. Huh? Does that mean that child is an outsider? The other gatekeeper, Hue, shook his head at Jeffs question. Theres no way. We checked everyone that came in today. There was no child like that. She mustve been staying inside the house ! The fat butlers eyes widened to the point they looked like they were going to rip at that moment. He had finally realized who the girl was. After coughing in shock, he yelled. Shes thedy of the household. Get her! The two gatekeepers, who had finally grasped the situation, began chasing the girl with the butler. Ariel also began running immediately, but she couldnt beat the speed of three adult males. She was at a risk of getting caught after just a few steps. No! The butlers hand, which hade near her, nearly got a hold of her but ended up s.n.a.t.c.hing her bandana away instead. Ah! Her scarlet red hair was exposed from underneath the bandana. Miss, if the Marquis finds out youll be in deep trouble! The fat butler threatened as he panted. But because Ariel knew what would happen if she stayed in the house, she was desperate. Please Just this once! She instinctively spit out a word once she was desperate. Dirshili! It was an attacking spell she had often used in the past. Ariel shut her eyes. She could hear the sound of the butler and the two gatekeepers falling after a sh of light. It didnt work properly. If the past Ariel had used this spell, it was a kind of magic spell that wouldve ripped the three men into thousands of pieces. But perhaps it was because her body was young and weak, the spell she had chanted out merely knocked the men out. They seemed to have fainted, since they werent following her anymore. Ariel sighed in relief at the fact that she didnt kill anyone. But her legs gave out and her body fell forward. Heuk. Her body fell to the floor and she couldnt move anymore. Her sight was stained with redness and blood rose up from the inside. It was so painful that it felt like her insides would flip. It hurts. It hurts. It hurts so bad. It seemed to be a side effect of using an offense magic. Feeling her consciousness disappear, Ariel gathered up thest bit of energy she had and thought of the Grand Dukes houses location. Ri. She remembered the past all of a sudden. In the past when she had attacked the La Carte household and killed all the knights, the words that the wizard who teleported her had said. We cant go in using magic to the ce were going right now because of the barrier. Well all put our powers together to open up the barrier, so you have to go in since youre smallest. They hadnt even told Ariel that they were going to the La Carte household back then. Ah, they even have a barrier ced back then. Zma. When Ariel finished chanting the spell, her mana reacted to her desperateness and teleported her somewhere. Still lying on the floor, Ariel looked at the building in front of her. The building was unclear in her eyes because her entire face was full of tears from the pain. Mom, mom, it hurts so bad. A b.u.t.terfly shaped mana formed from her fingertips as she shrank her body in pain. It was useless magic. Please help me. Ariel soon lost her consciousness after whispering this. After she had lost her consciousness, the b.u.t.terfly flew to a certain window and set down there. Someones hand came out of the open window and clenched the b.u.t.terfly mercilessly. The weak b.u.t.terfly was swallowed up by the hand without any sounds. * * * When Ariel opened her eyes, it was already night time. The little girl was shocked and looked around. Where is this ce? The ce she had woken up in was unfamiliar. She was on a soft bed with a thick, soft nket instead of the hard floor she went to bed every day. The bed and nket were unfamiliar to her, because she was used to a poor functioning nket. The warm air despite it being winter waspletely different from the cold and worn out attic Ariel had lived in. Huh, it doesnt hurt anymore? Ariel thought of the unbearable pain she had experienced until she lost consciousness. They werent wounds that could simply disappear through a snap. Ariel tilted her small head in confusion. She lifted her head and looked around the dark room. It was an extremelyrge roompared to the attic she had lived in. It wasrger and fancier than the best guest room in the Marquis household. The bed was sorge that it could fit twelve girls the size of Ariel. Ariel stretched her short arms in a yawn and crawled out of the bed with her knees. Next to the bed were a pair of slippers that were the perfect size for her. Ariel admired the fur slipper and reached her feet out. Crash. The window opened quite violently and someone jumped in through the window. Startled, Ariel crawled back into bed. The person who had jumped in through the window spoke, sitting on the window frame. Youre awake. Ariel barely stopped herself from huping. Wait was this the first floor? A night of the full moon. The bright moonlight behind the person on the window frame prevented their face from being seen. But despite not being able to see his face, his presence was overwhelming. She could feel the chills and electricity tingling her skin just by his voice. A dangerous and beautiful vibe like the cold winter wind wasing from him. His silhouette was that of a male. Short hair and a skinny body. Afortable att.i.tude. The white curtain fluttered from the wind that came through the window. A low voice came from between the fluttering curtains. This. Is it yours? Something was desperately pping in the intruders hand. Ariel recognized the b.u.t.terfly shaped mana in his hand right away. END OF CHAPTER 5. Chapter 6 That mana was something she had called upon whenever she felt lonely in the Attic. He opened his eyes after reading Ariels eyes. It is. He came to a conclusion as if he didnt need a response and lowered his chin in Ariels direction to look at her. Whats someone like a young wizard like you doing in here? Ariel flinched and shrunk at the word wizard. His voice was cold and scary as he said it. In the past, magic had ruined her life. It made her father and her brother abandon her, and her magic was used in the hands of someone who acted like the devil. Ariel asked in a frightened tone. Where is this ce? You dont even know where you came to? The man replied coldly and flicked his finger to close the window. The room became quiet and the dancing curtains calmed down when the window closed. Ariel couldnt see how the window had closed and rolled her eyes around. The man told her. This is the Grand Duke La Cartes house. La Carte! Ariel widened her eyes. Her round, strawberry red eyes blinked as they became huge. She mustvee to the right ce despite nearly losing her mind in pain. Returning to her senses, Ariel quickly replied. Then, Ivee to the right ce. The manughed as if it was funny. But I dont know you. The question Who are you though? was stuck in Ariels throat. The man spoke in a cold and arrogant tone. I didnt know they were guests that didnt know the Dukes son existed? The Dukes son. Ariel remembered what those words meant. The only heir to the La Carte family, Lucian Desmond La Carte. Its the person I was trying desperately to meet! More urately it was the person she wanted to marry. But he seemed to be offended at Ariels presence. Whats a child, a wizard at that, doing in front of the Grand Dukes house? She was fl.u.s.tered that he had taken a disliking to her already when she needed to marry him. Ariel mustered up courage to basically squeeze out her voice. I came to meet you. The Dukes son spoke in an interested tone. Me? Ariel struggled to crawl out of the bed and onto the carpet. Then she spoke as she stepped closer to the shadow of the man. I have something to ask of you. The Dukes son, whose face could not be seen, nodded his head as if he was telling her to continue. She breathed heavily and looked up to the dukes son with her round eyes. Please marry me. * * * . After a long silence the Dukes son jumped from the window side lightly. It was like the movement of a fast predator. He walked towards Ariel and reached his hand towards her face, grabbing her by the chin and lifting her face. Although he was a boy, it was the first time she had been grabbed by the chin by a male. Ariel couldnt meet his gaze and looked away. Im not desperate enough to marry a baby beast. Wh, what does he mean, baby beast? Ariels white cheeks burned, turning red. Im a person. And Im not a baby either. A human girl must be ten years old to get married. Lady of the Marquis Lucilleon family. He had already known that she was from the Marquis family. Then he should also know that he has never been exposed to the public and that he is the secret of the Grand Duke family. Why is a young child like you who should be in a cradle proposing to me? Ariel wanted to release her face from his grip but could not beat his strength. She whispered in an unclear p.r.o.nunciation because her chin was trapped. Yesterday. I turned 10 years old. Since my birthday already pa.s.sed. The Grand Dukes sons tone became slightly brutal. Youre ten? I cant see you as anything older than seven. He seemed to have a.s.sumed that she was young and did not look quite her age. Ariel also knew she was smaller and had a slow growth ratepared to kids her age. Her height was that of a seven or an eight year old child and her skinny body made her look even younger. But even so, she was still ten years old. Ariel stopped avoiding his gaze and looked up at him. Im saying the truth. I was born during the Aurellic year 801, and I turned ten years old this year. I can prove it. . She couldnt see his expression due to the fact that his face was covered by the light. She couldnt even see his facial features, but Ariel was somehow afraid to see his face. She was morefortable not being able to see his face because of the moonlight. Ariel wet her lips with her small tongue and looked at him directly. She had to say it. The start of the change in her life. Please let me live as your wife until I be 17 years old. She also added on in clear p.r.o.nunciation. I need someone to protect me. This is the only way for me to escape from my home. Since you can revoke a marriage you did as a child once you be an adult, please protect me from my father just till then. After hearing such a daring statement from a child, the Grand Dukes son opened his mouth in a rxed manner. A marriage with a time limit. Hm, he made a low noise and brushed up Ariels chin. It was something you would do to a cat. So, if I do that, what can you do for me? He pushed his face up close to Ariels after asking. Ariel flinched and shut her eyes at their close proximity. The Grand Dukes son let out a coyugh at her reaction. You dont have anything I want. He let go of Ariels chin after saying this. Ariel, somewhat indignant, clenched her tiny fists. F, first of all, Ill carry out my duties like a proper wife. And. She stopped talking and bit her lower lip. Ariels lifted eyes sparkled. Ill be your wizard. It was this. The only thing Ariel could suggest as a condition for this contracted marriage. She didnt have money, power, or beauty, but she was confident in her magic skills. She could be useful to the other person with this method. Since magic can be money and power. The Grand Dukes son leaned his head back as if he was interested. My wizard, you say? Ariel started chirping with all her might after her only card had been revealed. I look strange and I dont know how to do anything. But magic, Im powerful in that area. Before no, Im good at attacking magic. She remembered how she had killed all the people in the La Carte household in the past. The Grand Dukes son could have even been one of the people she killed. Which meant her alliance would be very beneficial to him. Ill protect you. The Dukes son responded in a strangely unclear tone. You mean you want to propose a deal with me? His question made it seem like they were about to make a devils contract or something. But Ariel nodded with no hesitation. Yes. If you want I can show you magic right here. Theres no need. His hand closed in on Ariels soft cheek and grabbed it painfully. Ow! Ariel, whose cheek was pinched, looked up at him with teary eyes. The Dukes son spoke in a rxed tone. I dont want to see any more blood from that tiny body. He let go of her cheek and walked towards the window, and released the b.u.t.terfly he had trapped in the .s.s cup. Ariel watched as the b.u.t.terfly shaped mana flew across the room towards her. The b.u.t.terflynded in her hand and tickled her a little when she reached her hand out to it. It seemed to be whining that it suffered from the Grand Dukes son. Ariel couldnt help but let out augh. The Dukes son, who was leaning on the wall and was watching her, spoke. Okay. I ept your proposal. Ariel widened her eyes. Youre really going to ept it? Yes. But I also have one condition. What condition.? He cut her words off roughly. Youll know when the timees. Wuuuuh. He really only does stuff his way. Ariel puffed up her cheeks in secret in the dark. Did he seriously just turned fourteen? Although she had lived to be seventeen previously, he didnt feel younger than her at all. Ariel nodded as she hoped that his request wouldnt be too unreasonable. I understand. Then, now we must earn permission from Marquis Lucilleon. Frightened at the mention of her father, Ariel spoke in a small voice. Father will disapprove for sure. And the Grand Duke. Ill take care of that part. You just need to stick next to me. The Grand Dukes son smirked at Ariels nearly crying expression as he spoke arrogantly without a single bit of doubt. Anything I decide to does true. Theres no need for you to worry about that. Yes. Lets talk in more detail tomorrow, Arie. She blushed at unexpectedly hearing her name. How long has it been since someone called her by her full name? The Dukes son opened the window he had entered through. He seemed to be leaving through the window, just as he entered. Ariel tossed him a question that was crossing her mind as she watched him, dazed. By the way, what floor is this? The Grand Dukes son turned his head stiffly and brushed his bangs up from where he was holding onto the window frame with half of his body out the window. It looked like his face was reflected in the moonlight. Ariel was about to pay attention to his face when his reply took a hold of it. The Grand Dukes son jumped out the window after casually replying. 4th floor. Ariel contemted if she should scream for a second. * * * There werent many people working at the secret La Carte familys house. This meant people who were worth a hundred people in the work area were the ones who couldst a long time in the Grand Dukes house. Dalton, who was the treasurer, solicitor, and administrative processor of the Grand Dukes household, sighed after seeing Lucian, who had crashed inte at night. Y, you scared me, sir. Could you lower your threatening presence? Lucian frowned as if he was annoyed, and the threatening presence that had filled the room disappeared. The Grand dukes son held his hand out to Dalton after crashing in at such ate time. Give it to me. Wh what do you mean? A marriage contract. What?! Dalton asked, so surprised to the point he could faint. He already knew it was impossible to understand the La Carte males actions with normal values, but there was no way for him to not be shocked at that time. Why a marriage contract so suddenly? Are you getting married? END OF CHAPTER 6. Chapter 7 What do you mean you need a marriage contract all of a sudden? Are you getting married? Tomorrow. Hes crazy. Isnt this too much even if he is apart of the La Carte family? The son of the Grand Duke was getting married tomorrow, and he was the only person who knew about it! What about your bride? The bride at least knows about the marriage, right? Lucian was someone who could just not tell the bride and drag her into the ceremony on the day of the ceremony. Its the girl we brought in earlier. Dalton remembered the little girl with red hair he had moved to the guest room on the 4th floor. Marquis Lucilleons daughter? Yes. So did she agree.? You talk too much. When the Grand Dukes son waved his hand like he was annoyed, the st.u.r.dy oakwood desk broke down like a thin biscuit. Hurry up and give me the contract. Fear rose up out of instinct at the trained fourteen year olds immense destructive power. It was a fear that would make anyone obey. But Dalton stood up against him stubbornly. He didnt work at the La Carte family for a long time for no reason. Wait, how can you just get married like this? Does the Grand Duke know about this? Because the Grand Dukes son was just minor, it was his duty to inform his father about the marriage. Ill tell Matias. You just get the papers ready. But marrying ady you met for the first time. The Grand Dukes son sat on the broken desk and crossed his legs. He looked like a predator who was in a good, rxed mood. Lets just say I fell in love with her at first sight. Love at first sight?! Daltons jaw dropped to the floor. Is that what the Grand Dukes son, Lucian just said? Was he dreaming? Shouldnt you already be going? Dalton hurried to get the marriage contract ready at the threat. The Grand Dukes son could not be described as someone who had patience. But, wait. The littledy from earlier is ten years old? Dalton had seen the youngdy from the marquis family as he let the doctor in. Perhaps you mistakened it? Even if you are the son of the La Carte family its illegal to marry someone younger than ten! Then go look into the matter yourself. He took the marriage papers from Daltons hand and flicked his fingers to open the door. If she is indeed ten, Ill break the rest of your desk. After the Grand Dukes son left, Dalton quickly looked through the information he had gathered and found the girls profile. Born in year 801? She really was ten! . Dalton looked at the st.u.r.dy, half-left oakwood desk with sad eyes. It was time to say goodbye to his precious desk. * * * Ariel returned to the bed and sat down after the Grand Dukes son left. All the tension in her body went loose and her energy drained. I did it. She did it. She changed my fate. Her heart pounded loudly. She didnt know how the future would change because of this, but it was an unbelievable change for her. It was hard to believe that she had finally escaped the Marquis family. The Marquis family must be in a frenzy trying to look for me by now. The fat butler and the two gatekeepers who fainted mustve also joined in on the search and should be looking for all the ces Ariel could be in. Jeromes hunting dogs may have been called out as well. But they wont be able to find me. Being a Marquis was definitely a high position since there were only seven in the country, but it wasnt enough to go searching in the Grand Dukes mansion. Ariel realized how she felt more safe in the Grand Dukes mansion than anywhere else despite having never been here before. If I get married. Will I get to live here? Ariel wrapped her cheeks with her hands after thinking. Oh my, I cant believe Im getting married. She still couldnt believe she hade to the Grand Dukes mansion to ask his son to marry her. She hadnt hit reality yet and was in a daze. I didnt think he would ept so easily. He had epted the marriage proposal even though she hadnt showed him how she can attack using her magic. It seemed like he wasnt interested in her strength. And he didnt treat me strangely even after seeing my face. Just by that, Ariel developed positive feelings for the Grand Dukes son, who had behaved as he pleased. He was as arrogant as what a Grand Dukes son should be, but the arrogance didnt seemed to be directed at Ariel. He was probably arrogant towards everyone. I wonder what he looks like. She became a little disappointed that she couldnt see his face because of the dark room and the moonlight that shined behind him. Speaking of, she just got engaged without even seeing her fiancs face! Even though Ariel showed him her strange looking face and red hair. Ariel puffed her cheeks because she felt that it was unfair. Yawn She had only been sitting for a short while, but sleep came easily to a young girl. Ariel crawled back into the soft nket after yawning with her small mouth. She felt like her body could melt at the difference in texture from the nket she had used till yesterday. Im tired. Not only had she been tense the whole day, but the aftereffects of using magic was pouring in and Ariels mind began to lose focus. Without knowing that the boy who she had gotten engaged to had already set up the wedding for tomorrow, or that a kind maid woulde in in the morning to get her ready. The small girl curled up her small body and fell asleep. * * * The air became colder as the night deepened. The cold wind was howling on the outside, but it was quiet in the Grand Dukes mansion. Lucian Desmond La Carte frowned as he headed towards the Grand Dukes office. If it was just some marriage he wouldve told Dalton to inform the Grand Duke and left it there. But this one was aplicated one. Lucian put his dark hair back to get rid of his disgust for the Grand Duke. The Grand Dukes office was open. When he entered the room, the man with long ck hair at the desk lifted his gaze slightly from his files. Lucian and the Grand Dukes cold gazes met. What is it? Matias. I dont know what you had in mind to let them in. The Grand Duke was silent for a moment, and replied. How could I not? An injured little girl was lying in front of the house. You know thats not what Im talking about. . The mood between the Grand Duke and his son got more and more tense with each statement. The Grand Duke spoke first. Youre right, I had to let the crimson heart in since it came to us with its own feet. Dont you find it strange that it did? Of course I was suspicious. Its not normal for a child like her toe find us coughing up blood. But you still put her in the guest room. I wanted to ask her why she was here when she woke up. The Grand Duke switched the subject after replying. But you got to her before me. Ill ask you since you went to see her. How was it, is she worth being suspicious of? . Lucian red at the Grand Duke and dropped his gaze to his right hand. The touch of grabbing the red haired girls chin was still in his hand. He thought of the sweet eyes he saw close up. And the wish the girl had desperately asked him. Please marry me. Lucian clenched his teeth. It doesnt seem like she knew anything. If she did, she wouldnt havee to this monsters den. After speaking as if he was making fun of himself, he lifted his gaze. And even if she did know, it doesnt matter. It doesnt? Lucians eyes became dark. It said it would be mine. Since it reached its hand out to me first, I dont n on getting my possession stolen. Of course, I wont leave it to die either. He ced the marriage agreement contract down loudly on the Grand Dukes desk after he had finished speaking. The Grand Duke calmly looked over the contract and signed. Ill allow it. It wouldnt be a bad idea to keep her around. The ink the Grand Duke used to sign let out a strange light and stained in blue. Right, you and I are monsters like this. He held the signed marriage agreement contract as if he was crumpling it. Ill take care of the rest. The air from the Grand Dukes son as he walked out the room was cold enough to freeze all the air in the world. To the Grand Duke, Matias, Luciansst words came off as terrifying. Once I be an adult, Ill kill you. After the door was shut closed, the Grand Duke, who was left alone, spoke with a drained expression. Hes not cute at all. * * * The ckout drapes that were on top of the white curtains opened and the morning sun shined brightly into therge room. Please wake up, little miss. Uuung. Ariel covered her face with her arms and pushed herself into the pillow because of the bright light. The pillow wasrge and soft enough to hide Ariels entire head. Miss. The unfamiliar calling was what woke Ariel up. A soft, kind, voice of an adult woman. Ariel woke up immediately due to herck of experience waking up to such a voice. When she woke up, the middle aged woman in front of her made a warm smile. What a good girl you are, not making a fuss. The woman put a cushion behind Ariels back to make her sit up straight while Ariel blinked, trying to figure out the situation. I heard you were from a n.o.ble family. How did you normally eat for breakfast? Did you have a simple soup? Or would you like an egg, white bread, and thick bean soup? Finally realizing she hade out of the Marquis house and was at the Grand Dukes mansion, Ariel spoke. Um, Who are you? The woman smiled as if Ariel was the cutest thing ever. Because everyone in the house was a male, having a girl around was extremely rare. Im the head maid of this mansion, Madam Susan. Head maid? Ariels eyes widened. She knew how much power a head maid had in the house. The head maid was like the right arm of the mistress. If there was no mistress like Ariels family, the head maid had even more power. END OF CHAPTER 7. Chapter 8 There was a proverb that said, If you look at a maid wrongly, you wont even get any soup. A head maid of a high status family would receive good treatment. From what Ariel saw, all the maidservants were afraid of a Head Maids words. Ah, h.e.l.lo Madam Susan. If Ariel was a normal daughter of the Marquis, right away she wouldve informally given orders to the Head Maid in afortable manner. However, at home Ariel was treated even lesser than a maid. To her, the Head Maid was to be regarded with absolute respect. Sensing the little girl in front of her was being respectful, Susan was a little impressed by her. For Susan, who had no idea about Ariels background, thought that this youngdy from a prestigious household was very humble. Laughing gently, Susan spoke. Miss is allowed to treat mefortably. No. I still have many things I dont know. Later, Ill be learning from Madam Susan I cant treat yourfortably. There was some truth to Ariels words. It was clear that Ariel would have a lot to learn when she got married in the near future. Ariels answer gave Susans heart a warm feeling. The little girl who spoke in childlike voice about wanting to learn was praiseworthy and adorable. Alright then, Miss. But excluding me, you have to speak informally to the other maids. Understand? Yes, I will do that. And dont call me Madam Susan, just call me Susan. Ariel looked at her with wide eyes. Can I really? I dont see why not. Its because I want Miss to be friendly with me thats why Im requesting. At her kind words, Ariels cheeks flushed. ThenIll call you Susan. Susan smiled and offered breakfast to Ariel. If you dont mind, itll be good to have a full meal. Today will be a long day for Miss. Ariel nodded her head and was rewarded. A bed table was set up so she could eat while sitting up, and Susan ced her food on top of it. With one bite, Ariel was surprised by the mild, milk-fragrant pea soup. Its delicious! At Ariels childlike reaction, Susan gave a pleasedugh. The Grand Dukes Chef is an excellent cook. Even so, Im d it suits your taste. Ariel had never had anything like this before. In particr, she only thought that soup was supposed to be watery and had poor ingredients. But this pea soup was thick, and the chef generously added the cream which made it sweet. Her cheeks glowed with delight. Savory half-boiled eggs partnered with white wheat bread which were baked until they were golden brown. It seemed like it was just a simple dish that required no skill, but for this taste, the effort was two or three times of such a simple dish. At the end of Ariels meal, Susan began to speak softly. In a little bit, you will be going to your parents with the Grand Dukes son to ask your fathers permission for marriage. Ariel nodded her head. For Marriage regarding n.o.ble children under the age of 18, parental consent was the primary obstacle. The Grand Dukes son and Ariel had already promised to marry each other, but if the Grand Duke or the Marquis would forbid the marriage, it cannot happen. It was only natural to get permission from both parents before discussing the contract marriage with the Grand Dukes son. Will the Grand Duke really allow his only son to marry? At Ariels worried expression, Susan smiled. Dont worry. The Grand Duke has already agreed to your marriage with Sir Lucian. Now its time for the Grand Duke to have a hard time taking away anothers precious daughter. Precious daughter Ariel hid her troubled look on her face. Susan treats me like a young princess who grew up to be treated dearly by her father. In reality, its not true at all Susan, who cleared the bowl away neatly, pped energetically. If youve eaten your fill, why dont we get started already? Susan brought Ariel to the bathroom, informing her she was the only one who would be helping her get ready. Young maidens who havent been married yet should not let other servants simply touch them. As she said so, she poured the steaming bath water in the stone bathtub where Ariel would be ced, and scented foam rose from the water. Now, into the bath you go, Miss. Ariel faltered and clenched her clothes. Could I wash alone? Taking it that the little girl was shy, Susan smiled yfully. Grown up girls shouldnt be shy about taking baths. Youll need to get used to this. But Quickly! Now, hooray! In a whirl her clothes were lifted over her head. Susan lifted Ariel up and plopped her into the bath. There you go, soak your body in the warm water Ariel tried to cover her naked body with her small hands and arms, but it was not enough. Not knowing what to do, she turned her back to Sujan. How are you this thin Looking at Ariels small, skinny frame, Susans muttering died down. The little girl, who looked like she was only seven, was covered with scars all over her body from being beaten. Miss, what is this Ariel shut her eyes, as if hoping the time would disappear. Susan was very angry that someone would even have the audacity to beat such a beautiful young girl. Where do they think theyre hitting! Her eyes red at the scars, thoroughly examining them. There was only one who could habitually a.s.sault such a young aristocratic daughter. The father. Susan realized Ariel did not live a favourable life in a normal respectable family. Her eyes softened and she turned Ariel around with a gentle hand. Ariel lowered her head. She was afraid that Susan would hear how it happened. The marquis and everyone always exined to her that she was being hit because she was in the wrong. Because you did wrong, you need to be hit. You deserve to be hit. Ariel was afraid Susan, who she met for the first time, would see her that way, and would ask in detail about the Marquis. Then she heard Susan speak in a friendly voice Miss, are your wounds still painful? Ariel shook her head and gestured at her arm which was rtively fresh from being hit. Besides here it doesnt hurt anywhere anymore. Susan looked at Ariel with pitiful eyes and kindly wrapped her in a hug. Okay, Ill wash the foam off. If it hurts, tell me. The bath was gentle as it can be. Susan didnt hurt her at all, and skillfully cleaned Ariel with speed. Ariel, who had been cowering because of the possibility that she was going to be asked about the cause of her wounds would arise, gradually had her worries fade away as Susan didnt say anything and gently washed her. After finishing, Susan dried Ariel with arge towel. Ariel was so small she was enveloped in the towel. Susan, who finished wiping her body, started drying her red hair. When you get married, Ill have to trim your long hair. For now, youre still another households daughter. Sujan said ruefully. Susan braided her striking scarlet red, which came down until Ariels behind, and arranged it into a childs bo, leaving a curly charming crown on top. Then she brought out a pretty dress that was fitted to Ariels body. The light beige baby-doll dress was a set with the bo. The interior of the bo wasyered with whitece and on the side was an ivory ribbon. Her dress was also made of whitece oveying thick, light beige cloth, giving a dainty and elegant feel. At the center of the dresss chest was a cream colored ribbon made of silk broadcloth. The center of the ribbon was decorated with a cameo brooch. The dress had a soft lining so it was snug. It waspletely different from Ariels baggy, tattered clothes. To be wearing a dress and a bo, even a pair of non-heeled boots made of soft leather, Wow, I look like ady. Looking at herself, Ariel really looked like she transformed into a n.o.bles daughter. Though youre young, I was about to put a red color on your lips, but I see you dont need it! The color of your lips is very beautiful. Susan, who spoke brightly, praised Ariel for being blessed with pink lips. Like ady, youll enter with such a beautiful ambiance. Everyone will definitely fall in love with you. At those words, Ariel was doubtful. Beautiful? That was impossible. Ive obviously be more neat, but Ariel, who believed she looked ugly, did not really think she was pretty, although Susanspliment only strengthened her impression that Susan was a good person. If we dont hurry up, well bete. Now, shall we go? Susan led Ariel out by the shoulders and as they exited the mansion, dazzling sunlight poured from the skies. Beyond the sunlight was a handsome tall boy. The Grand Dukes son is already here. The boy was slim, tall, and beautiful. Those that didnt know could see the ck suit he wore was extremely costly. Only his necktie was noticeably loose and he looked slightly defiant. Youre here. Yesuwahh?! He abruptly s.n.a.t.c.hed her from Susan, catching her by her side like a toy. Its not a good hobby to keep me waiting. Ariel had knit her eyebrows in the re of the sun, but now she gazed upon him. The Grand dukes sons face who she didnt see yesterday was full of delight under the sunlight. But.. Ah? Ariel stiffened at the sight of the Grand Dukes son Lucian. This person is.? It was a face she knew. Short jet ck hair and dark blue eyes. Killing all of La Cartes knights. What are you? Ill help you so grab my hand. A daunting and beautiful young man she met on the streets of La Carte in the past. The Grand Dukes sessor, Lucian Desmond La Carte, had that guys face. END OF CHAPTER 8. Chapter 9 . Ariel was so shocked that she could not even blink and just continued to stare at his face. The person back then was actually the Grand Dukes son? She never could have guessed. Since there was no mention of an heir at the La Carte family at all back then. She did not know much about the things that happened in the world because she followed him and his group of wizards, but even she knew that much. The story of the Young Grand Duke who became the Grand Duke when he was just twenty years old. By that time he was already the grand duke, people didnt even know there was even an heir in the first ce. And the previous grand duke what happened to him? It wasnt just a normal pa.s.sing of status. She couldnt really remember what was it. The face of the boy in front of Ariel took away all other suspicions. His looks were not realistic at all. His pitch-ck hair was neat, and his exposed forehead looked hard and elegant like gypsum. But the gradient in the shape of his eyes gave off a dangerous atmosphere. Not only did it ce fear in the people who looked at him, but it also enchanted them at the same time. His long eyshes covered his eyes as he looked down arrogantly. One could feel an incredible feeling by watching him do this and Ariel felt her heart pause for a moment before thumping fast once more. How could someone look like this? His long nose and red lips were perfect, and his jawline and neck, which were not developed enough to be called a mans, were white like a boys. The little mole at the edge of his eyes added on a s.e.xy atmosphere to him as well. Not only was his face different, but the airing off of him was simply different from all the other average men. This was why she could be sure of it. The boy she had seen in the past was the same person as the Grand Dukes son. The Grand Dukes sons appearance was much younger than she remembered. He was already tall and had a strong aura that was iparable to normal fourteen-year-olds, but he was still a boy. Why are you looking at me like that? Ariel answered as if she had been hypnotized at his sudden question. B-because youre pretty. Her face turned red as she blurted out the truth subconsciously. Lucian twisted the corner of his mouth and smiled. I thought there was something wrong with your beauty standards, but I guess that wasnt the case. What? Hepletely ignored Ariels question and climbed into the carriage. Lets go. Seriously, he only says whatever he wants. Arielined in her head and wiggled out of his arm to take her seat in the carriage. The seat in the carriage was high, so her feet were in the air instead of the floor. Ariel moved her feet a little in the air. The inside of the carriage was silent. She felt like the Grand Dukes son was gazing at her, but she couldnt bring herself to meet his gaze and continued to stare at the floor. I was too scared in the past to think about it, but he really is a beautiful person. I cant believe I have to stand next to someone so beautiful. Ariel could feel her confidence disappearingpletely. Of course, his face was one that would make anyones confidence disappear. Raise your head. Amand fell over her as she was staring at the patterns on the bottom of the carriage. Ariel instinctively lifted her head. Lucian spoke as he stared down at her coldly. Only those in front of me can put their heads down. I wont forgive anyone if it was someone standing next to me was staring at the floor. He added arrogantly as Ariel blinked. Standing next to me means you belong to me. In conclusion, he meant to say was stop staring at the floor and raise your head. Ariel nodded as she wet her dry lips. Yes. He loosened his lips in satisfaction as Ariel faced him. The scene looked just like a piece of art. . Ariel finally felt a sense of realization. Ah. Come to think of it, I actually did meet that person. The one person she truly wanted to meet whening to the Grand Dukes mansion. The man with ck hair and blue eyes. The fact that he was actually the Grand Dukes son made it a little difficult for her, but one of her greatest wishes had been granted today. She felt as if she had moved onto a new chapter in her life. Is it changing? Warm and soft dresses, soft leather boots that dont even need getting used to, and even the people she was with. Many things changed in a short amount of time and as she saw the morning scenery through the carriages window, another realization hit Ariel. Yesterday already pa.s.sed! The day her life had begun breaking apart in the past. The night she supposedly lost her left leg from her fathers beating had pa.s.sed. The little girl who had gotten her hair grabbed, pulled down the stairs, and beaten till she fainted was not here anymore. Just like how the sun pushed away the darkness to create morning. Ariel, who had pushed away the tragedy of the past had definitely changed. She smiled slightly as she saw the Marquis mansion approach from far away. * * * Marquis Lucilleon was not in his right mind. He had poured all his attention into serving the Monica couple for a mine business but received a report early in the afternoon telling him that the cursed bas.e.m.e.nt girl had disappeared. What? How did she run away when we locked her up?! T-the thing is the miss used magic. The Marquis grabbed the ashtray and threw it. I told you not to speak of magic in this household didnt I?! He beat up the servant who reported the issue to him and sent out people to find the girl. d.u.c.h.ess Monica did point out the messy atmosphere of the mansion, but there was no impact on their business proposal. But Ariel had not been found even after the Monica couple leftte at night. They could not even find a single strand of red hair. Youre trying to get money out of me but you cant even find a ten year old girl! The Marquis anger had stacked up all the way to the tip of his head, and he began grinding his teeth. I provided a girl who wasnt even my real daughter with food and clothing, and this is how she repays me? Just wait till youre caught. Ill fix your manners for good this time! She wont even think about running away if her limbs are broken. The Marquis drank endlessly as he thought of how to punish Ariel the moment she was caught and fell asleep afterward. And when he woke up the next morning feeling sick, he received shocking news. The heir of the La Carte Grand Duke is visiting our house? Lucian, the Grand Dukes son. Even the Marquis had only ever heard of him through rumors. He had been telling his thirteen-year-old son Jerome, who would begin attending the academy next year, that he had to befriend the Grand Dukes son. But he wasing to visit! It hasnt been long since the new year began, and Ive met the Duke and now the Grand Duke. I seem to be having good luck this year. The Marquisughed inside. The thought of Ariel disappeared from his mind as soon as he heard the news about the Grand Dukes son. Ariels existence was insignificant to him. He kicked out the fat butler who had fainted yesterday and ordered the servants to clean the mansion again. And he went out to greet the carriage at the time the Grand Dukes son had said he woulde. As expected of the Grand Dukes family, the carriage was majestic despite the fact that only one person was riding in it. There was a seal of the Grand Duke etched into the wall of the carriage in gold, and four healthy horses pulled on it. The coachman, who was dressed as well as the Marquis, opened the door and a boy got off elegantly. His look was one that dominated the surrounding immediately. Sir La Carte. He pressed his sons head as he lowered his body to greet the Grand Dukes son. Jerome lowered his head as he made noises ofints. Are you going to stay like that? An arrogant voice poured over them. The Grand Dukes son smiled as the Marquis lifted his head slowly. It was a smile that somehow sent chills down ones spine. Not everyone has gotten off the carriage. The Marquis turned his gaze towards the carriage at his words. If its someone with a status that can ride in the same carriage as the Grand Dukes son. Perhaps! Did the Grand Dukee as well? If that was the case, this was something big. The Marquis gulped at stared at the person getting off the carriage after the Grand Dukes son. The Grand Dukes son offered his hand and gently pulled the person out. It was a little girl who looked about eight. The Marquis could not recognize the face of the girl who was dressed so regal for a moment. Right then, Jerome, who had been standing next to him, opened his mouth with a surprised expression. Huk, dad, thats. And the Marquis realized. The n.o.ble youngdy in front of him was none other than the bas.e.m.e.nt girl he was determined to punish just a few hours ago. * * * You! Ariel could see the Marquis face had turned red and blue in a matter of moments. She imagined that she would get grabbed by the cor or get hit by a fist instantly. The Marquis expression was so uncontrolled to the point Ariel thought this way. Cough. Dalton, who had followed Lucians carriage, hade up and coughed awkwardly. The Marquis, finally noticing the Grand Dukes son, changed his expression. Lucian flicked his finger in an unfriendly way. Dalton, tell Marquis Lucilleon how this happened. Dalton began speaking skillfully. Sir. The Grand Dukes son found Miss Ariel, who was lost, while on an outing yesterday. He called the doctor to heal her as well because she seemed injured. That wasnt the case at all but it was a story that made sense. The fact that Ariel, who was the daughter of a Marquis, was outside without a supervisor was enough to ruin the Marquis reputation. Which was why there was no way the Marquis could deny this lie. Lucian added on smoothly. But the Grand Duke seemed to take a liking to thisdy. He says he would like to take her in as his daughter-inw. There was no hesitation in Lucians voice as he used his father as an excuse. Of course He lowered himself to kiss Ariels hand and looked up at the Marquis. I also have taken a liking to this youngdy. The Marquis began stuttering after looking at the two of them with a pale expression. Y-you mean. Lucian twisted his red lips into a devilish smile. Im officially proposing to Arie Lucilleon. END OF CHAPTER 9. Chapter 10 A huge disturbance rose up in the Marquis house. There had already been a huge disturbance when news. .h.i.t that the Grand Dukes heir, Sir La Carte would be visiting. But the scene that was unfolding right now was one that no one had expected. Thedy of the house was next to the Grand Dukes son as the Marquis showed them around while sweating? The maids and servants were busy ncing and whispering in the corners. The Marquis red at them as he looked around the mansion. The Marquis waved his hand as if he was telling the servants to scram, and they immediately ran away. After moving indoors and sitting across the Grand Dukes son, the Marquis began calcting furiously in his head. I dont know what magic that b.i.t.c.h used to lure the Grand Dukes son, but this is a chance for our family. It couldnt get better than a marriage with the Grand Dukes son. That useless thing is finally repaying me. And here I thought shed be useless forever. The Marquis, forcefullyhiding his inner thoughts, sent a warm look towards Ariel. Arie, you dont know how worried I was when you disappeared yesterday. I couldnt even sleep because I was trying to find my precious daughter. That b.i.t.c.h was always dying to earn my love. So if I just act nice now, shell take her fathers side. And since the Grand Dukes son was young enough to be his son, it would be a piece of cake to lure him into doing what he wanted. Everyone in the house was looking for you. Jerome and I were nning on giving up food and water until we found you. It was a shameless lie. But Ariel wasnt foolish enough to refute him right then. She even felt that the situation was very funny since it got this far. Youre not ming your father for not being able to find you sooner, are you? The Marquis who always brought her down and abused her was now struggling to match her mood. Before Ariel could respond, augh came from Lucian. Isnt it normal to ask your daughter about her injury first? Sweat formed at the Marquis forehead. T-thats right! Ariel, how is your injury? Where were you injured? He was acting so kindly, but Ariel kept an emotionless expression. Im fine, father. Ariel replied in a rigid tone, and Lucian taunted him. Oh my. You must not have received that much love from your daughter. Darn it, that b.i.t.c.h wasnt like this before. Why is she making such an unfamiliar look! The Marquis was about toe up with an excuse, but Lucian flicked his finger and changed the atmosphere. He was a mere boy, but he had the power to make everyone look at him. Im getting sick of this. I would like to talk about the marriage now, Marquis. Heughed coldly. As you know, I dont have that much time. At that moment Ariel thought to herself. Lucian must have an ability that allowed him to control anyone he faced. * * * The Marquis gazed at the marriage papers Daltonid out in front of him. A parent consent form for the minors marriage, marriage contract, pre-marriage contract. Out of those, the pre-marriage contract was not about the contract Ariel and Lucian had. After all, a marriage between n.o.bles wasnt so simple. Because it was a contract between two families, thend, property, session, and other things had to be properly discussed because it could bringplications in the future. To prevent these problems, n.o.bles made pre-marriage contracts. Since it was a pre-marriage contract from the La Carte family, there was bound to be information on the wedding gifts. The Marquis pressed down his curiosity about the wedding gifts he would receive. He had to be patient if he wanted something more. The Marquis foolishly believed that he still had the upper hand in this situation. Sir, Im grateful that you and the Grand Duke have taken a liking to my daughter, but my daughter is too young. He made a fake loving expression. I dont want to send off my precious daughter for marriage all of a sudden. So, how about you guys just get engaged instead? If they got engaged, he could still keep Ariel in the house and form a rtionship with the Grand Duke family. The Marquis nned on harshly teaching Ariel during the engagement period to bring him fame and power from the Grand Dukes family to the Marquis family. Lucian leaned into the chairfortably. Then he spit out arrogantly. That doesnt work. What? There is no such thing as engagement in the La Carte book. If we say were getting married, were getting married. He frowned slightly. Or maybe you have some significant problem why you cant let your daughter get married? The Marquis clenched his fists under the table. d.a.m.n, how does this young kid not back down even just one bit? Seeing the hostility pa.s.s by in the Marquis eyes, Lucian let out a bit of his powers. When he did so, everyone in the same s.p.a.ce was trapped in an illusion that they were facing a beasts shadow. The Marquis, who felt Lucians power from right across, turned pale and was trembling. You couldnt stay sane after feeling this much fear. What the h.e.l.l This cant possibly be a young childs power! Lucian controlled his power again after seeing that even Ariel, who was sitting next to him, had frozen up a bit. He could hear everyone in the room sighing once the power that had been pressing the atmosphere disappeared. Lucian smiled in a frightening matter as if nothing was wrong. If you dont agree, your business will be impacted. Will that be okay? . Afterall, Marquis Lucilleon was someone who was strong to the weak, and weak to the strong. He thought of the fear he had felt just now, and thought of the Grand Dukes power, which had the possibility of cutting off his businesspletely. And he quickly came to a conclusion. N-no. Then its decided. Lucian said refreshingly and flicked his finger at Dalton. Dalton pushed the agreement paper towards the Marquis. The Marquis, whose expression stained with defeat, signed the paper. Then he appealed to Ariel, who he thought of as a pushover. Ariel, youre going toe and see your father and brother even after you get married right? We treated you so well because you were the youngest child. Well be so lonely once youre gone. He searched Lucians face. Ill need a lot of things to distract me from that loneliness. Hes demanding money. Understanding the Marquis intent immediately, Lucian tossed the pre-marriage contract at him. Ill give you the sapphire mine at Hilton as a marriage gift. A sapphire mine! The Marquis eyes widened. Not a bag of sapphires or a years right to mine at the mine, but the whole mine? For this one girl? Then Lucian pointed at Dalton with his chin. The details will be covered by our familys treasurer. T-thank you, sir! Lucian twisted the corners of his mouth upwards. To me, Ariels worth is iparable to something like a mere mine. Ariel looked up at him silently. . The situation right now was simr to the past when her father sold her to the viin. The viin wanted her, and her father had bargained until he reached a price he was satisfied with. Theyre bargaining with me just as they did in the past. Somehow, this time she didnt feel offended by it. It actually felt like her confidence was being boosted. Perhaps it was because this boy was treating her like she was a precious individual rather than treating her as an object in order to bargain prices? The Marquis happy expression soon became dark. Uh, Sir. About the dowry. Normally, the marriage gift from the groom and the dowry from the bride had to be simr. But the Marquis could not prepare something worth as much as the sapphire mine for the dowry. It would be difficult even if he stopped all his businesses and changed it to cash. Lucian closed his eyes as if he was annoyed. No need for a dowry. He twisted his chin and looked at the Marquis coercively. Those who want a dowry are just men who cant even care for their own woman or think their woman is not worth too much. Y-youre right. Lucian smiled in satisfaction when the Marquis agreed to match his mood. He tapped his fingers lightly on the chairs armrest. But since Arie is a youngdy, I will take the things she used in this house. What? The Marquis face went rigid instantly. I would love to buy aplete new set for her, but I dont want her environment to change until she gets used to it. The boys deep blue eyes glinted wickedly. Marquis, please lead the way to the room Lady Ariel used. * * * This time, Ariel was a bit surprised as well. She nned on getting an agreement out the Marquis and leaving as soon as possible. She thought Lucian felt the same. Since this was just a part of the contract for him. So, she believed he wouldnt do anything to make things bothersome for himself. But after having taken care of the agreement papers, Lucians eyes were gleaming with motivation, more than any other time. Ariel gazed at the Marquis, who had turned pale. The room she had stayed in was the terrible attic at the top of the mansion. There was evidence of abuse in several parts of the room as well. There was no way the Marquis could take Lucian there. But for some reason, the Marquis beganughing loudly. Hahaha, of course! Ill take you there immediately. The Marquis began leading the way with Lucian, Ariel, and Dalton following. As expected, he was not headed for the stairs that led to the attic. Heading for the 2nd floor through therge stairs in the middle, he reached a room and pulled the handles to open the door. Here it is! The room was full of furniture and things that a child would use. The oakwood furniture polished in oil were luxurious, and there wasnt a single toy that was cheap. The only problem was. Ah, Dad! This was Jeromes room. The Marquis quickly spoke to Jerome before anyone else could. Gosh, Jerome! Youre in your little sisters room again! Huh? Jerome, who was slow-witted unless if it was to y pranks on her, did not understand the meaning behind his words. What are you talking about, this is my heup! The Marquis quickly covered his sons mouth and made a fake smile. END OF CHAPTER 10. I know its been a while since weve updated any of our novels, rest a.s.sured that wed be back on track for tranting them. Frankly, Im not the one to post a lot of my ramblings whenever I post because I think people wouldnt read them. These days, I just think about how SLC has grown to what it is and we literally have a lot of staff more than even my fingers could count. And to all our amazingmoners, whos just always active in SLC and also to others who give their silent support and love, I just couldnt believe how much wed grown until now. I honestly just wanted to thank each and every one of the staff for keeping SLC as it is right now, it always gives me a warm feeling to upload every time, because I know the staff has worked incredibly hard on it. I am not a perfect person by far and I know I make a lot of mistakes, I guess what I wanted to say is Id strive to be better to always give you guys quality content. This is me just being very emotional at 2:47 am. I wish you all a good day and good health~ Always take care of yourselves guys and adios! I hope you enjoyed this chapter as much as I did. Chapter 11 My son often visits this room because I buy Ariel such nice things. Jerome, go back to your room. This is my! Jerome left the room with a frustrated look after his mouth was once again covered while he spoke. Lucian leisurely looked over the room. The color of the room is quite dark for adys room. Haha, its because Ariel doesnt like pink colors orce. It must have been because he had already seen Ariel gasp in amazement at the soft pink slippers. Lucian scoffed. That doesnt seem true. After saying this, he looked around and pointed at a few objects in the room. Is that a statue you gifted to thedy? What? Ah, yes. I gifted it to my daughter after a trip. It was actually an expensive gift he gave to his son Jerome. Lucian spoke dly. Then Ill be taking it since it belongs to her. The Marquis was at a loss for words. What about the painting on the wall? That belongs to thedy as well? Yes. It was actually a precious painting that was there as an inheritance and as an investment piece for his son. But since he had said the room was Ariels, there was no choice but to give it up. After taking all the expensive things in Jeromes room, Lucian looked out the window. Whose toy carriage is that outside? It cant possibly belong to your son since hes all grown up, right? The Marquis clenched his teeth and barely replied. O-of course it belongs to my daughter. Soon, all the things that Jerome treasured and bragged about belonged to Ariel. Lastly, Lucian turned back to the Marquis after he ordered Dalton to take everything out. His expression was even more evil and yful than before. Right, shouldnt you give Ariel a gift to remember her family? He looked over the Marquis from head to toe. His eyes showed that he thought he was looking at someone lower than him. The ne you have on would do the job. The Marquis clenched the expensive ne that had a bronze-colored jewel. The ne was one of their family heirlooms. T-this. Lucian spoke as if he were threatening the Marquis. Youre not nning to not even gift a family heirloom to your only precious daughter whos getting married, are you? The Marquis shut his eyes. He repeated the words sapphire mine over and over in his head. Ultimately, after thinking of the immense profit the sapphire mine would bring, he handed the heirloom ne to Lucian. With that, Lucian left the Marquis house. Dalton rode on the carriage behind them transporting all of Jeromes possessions that now belonged to Ariel. When he saw them, the Marquis pressed his lips together to control his anger. When are you nning on holding the wedding? Today. What?! As if the Marquis shock didnt even matter, Lucian grabbed Ariels waist and climbed into the carriage. Kya. Lucian spoke after practically kidnapping Ariel into the carriage. After today shell be Arie La Carte, not Arie Lucilleon. He dered like a devil after smiling like a fallen angel. The next time we meet, I hope youll address my wife as the Lady of the Grand Dukes house, Marquis. If you dont, Ill take it that you are looking down on the La Carte family. And Lucian added refreshingly. Right, you cant attend the wedding. I wont allow it. His eyes and tone while saying this was so fearsome that the Marquis could not even nod his head. Lucians eyes looked over the servants that hade out to greet them. And when he did, all of them turned pale and lowered their gaze. The people of the Marquis house could not do anything but stare until the carriage that held Lucian and Arielpletely disappeared from their sight. * * * Is that really alright? Ariel asked carefully in the carriage. Lucian raised his eyes after loosening his tiepletely. What? Not allowing my father toe to the wedding. He replied shortly. Yup. Uh So can you exin why its okay? Dont just say what you want. Ariel stared up at him with round eyes. Lucian nced at her and let out augh. You couldnt even look at me earlier. I-Im going to be your real wife now so. Lucian tossed a file onto her knees as she let out an unreasonable excuse. Read it. Ariel widened her eyes and lowered her gaze towards the papers. It was one of the two contracts the Marquis had signed earlier. On the contract was information about the sapphire mine Lucian was providing as a marriage gift. Her jaw dropped at the mines ie. This was something really valuable! And there were two lines written at the bottom. [After signing, Ariel La Carte bes an individualpletely unrted to the Lucilleon family. The Lucilleon family cannot demand anything regarding their daughter from this point on.] This is. Ariel looked at Lucian in surprise. He smiled as he messed up his own hair. Why, you dont like it? She blurted out immediately. No. Im happy. Thats good. Since youre a part of the La Carte family from now on. Ariel was truly grateful for the condition Lucian put in the contract. Even if it was for his family, not Ariel. Thank you. He simply nodded without replying. With his hair and tie messed up, he really looked like a rebellious child. Kind of like an angel rebelling against G.o.d. Now Ariels thoughts were on the huge carriage of goods behind the carriage they were in. This was also one of Lucians works. Lucian had said that he would take all of the things she normally used to help her adjust to the Grand Dukes mansion. Although, there isnt a single thing thats mine. Ariel put her hand over her heart, which was thumping a bit. I feel like he may care about me a little bit. As soon as shepleted her thoughts, she heard Lucian ordering Dalton. Dalton. Those things, throw them all away. ? Lucian frowned as if he was annoyed when Ariels eyes widened. He growled and spoke in a low voice. You didnt think I would bring all that garbage into my mansion, did you? As I thought, I shouldnt expect any care from him. * * * When they returned to the mansion, Susan greeted Ariel warmly. Miss, did you have a nice outing? Yes. Ariel replied shyly. She felt like she was always a child in front of Susan. Lucian disappeared into the mansion after handing Ariel over to Susan. Feed her well. A short and arrogantmand. Susan wrapped her arms around Ariels shoulders and led her into the drawing room. You cant go into your room right now because its still being prepared. Are you hungry? It was past lunchtime by the time they had returned from the Marquis house. All of the hunger that she couldnt feel before because she was nervous came pouring in. A little. Ill help you get changed first. Outdoor clothing is a little ufortable to eat in. Susan sat Ariel down in the ying area and brought her indoor clothing. The dress was white with three pink vertical stripes going down it. There were cream-colored rectangles covering the shoulder area and a pink satin ribbon at the waist. Susan undid Ariels hair, brushed it, and put on a hairband that was the same color as the dress. Gosh, you look just like a doll. The dress is pretty. Ariel touched the light indoor dress that fit her perfectly several times without anyone knowing. The light beige coloredce dress she wore when going out looked too expensive to even touch, but this pink dress was pretty andfortable. She wouldnt get sick of it even if she stared at it for a long time. Ariel had been abused at home and waster dragged around by him, so this was the first time she saw such pretty things. Ariel moved carefully so that the pretty dress wouldnt get wrinkled. Pink suits you well because your skin is so fair. I really am good at picking out clothes for girls. After speaking, Susan got up. Ill prepare something delicious right away. You need to eat a lot. Your body is the size of a seven-year-old. Susan soon returned with a tray of steaming, warm food. Ariel struggled to crawl up the high table chair. Then Susan ced a white cloth napkin on herp. Woah. Ariels eyes widened at the sight of food. There was a healthy bread that had nuts and dried fruits in it and marmde jam that had a strong orange scent. And the food that caught her eye the most was the huge chicken dish that had been prepared to be soft. When she was at the Marquis house, she could barely eat meat. Every year, when there was a huge party for Jeromes birthday, there was a huge amount of food left. That was the only time she could have any. Susan spoke in a singing voice as she handed Ariel the utensils. Once you finish this, Ill give you a huge mug of hot chocte in the afternoon. Hot chocte? Whats that? Ariel blushed at her unfamiliar desire to eat because her body had previously been too messed up to feel hunger. Susan smiled in pleasure as Ariel began stuffing her cheeks with food. Theres a lot of food, so please let me know if you want more. Ariel ate the bread, jam, and chicken until she was full. She felt like she could eat ten tes of this delicious food. But unfortunately, her small stomach filled up rather quickly. If youre done, please rest for a moment. Susan handed Ariel a soft fur cushion before cleaning the table. Because of her full stomach, Ariel began dozing off with her head against the cushion. How long has it been? Um, Miss? A mans respectful voice woke Ariel up. When she rubbed her tired eyes and looked, Dalton was standing in front of her. Ummm, h.e.l.lo. I know its time for your nap, but you have one more thing on your schedule today. What thing? She didnt know. Dalton made a hesitant expression. The thing is the wedding ceremony for you and the Grand Dukes son thats the event. Ariel blinked her eyes twice. Wedding? END OF CHAPTER 11. Chapter 12 Wedding? It did seem like Lucian had said the wedding was today when they were leaving the Marquis house earlier. She had thought she had misheard and had a.s.sumed he had just said it to get rid of the Marquis. The wedding is really today? Dalton felt even worse after hearing Ariels pure, chick-like question. Yes. He was nervous that thedy may feel upset since the Grand Dukes son was deciding things as he pleased. She was still a young girl, but it had been decades since ady had been brought into the house that they needed to serve, and things were like this from the start. What kind of husband doesnt even tell his wife when the wedding is? But Ariel was only slightly fl.u.s.tered and wasnt too surprised. Marriages that urred between children were usually just small ceremonies anyway. It would be foolish to dress little children in a wedding dress and suit, and it was pointless to have a huge ceremony since they could split up when they grow up. A small wedding was where there was one attendant, the bride, and groom, and it would end after the wedding rings were exchanged and the contracts were signed. Ariel nodded after she hadpleted her thoughts. I understand. Daltons eyes widened. Just like that? She was getting married into the Grand Dukes family, after all, and not some other random family. He expected that she would at least want a proper wedding, of all things. Unlike Daltons thoughts, Ariel believed this was normal. She and Lucian were in a rtionship bound by a contract anyway, and since they would split up when they were older, there was no need for a huge ceremony. And the one who wanted to escape the Marquis grasp quickly through marriage was her, not Lucian. Since he said the wedding would be today in front of father earlier, he technically did tell me when the wedding would be. She got up after stretching her arms. Where is he? She had something she needed to confirm with him before the wedding. Ariels condition was that she would be his wizard if they got married, but Lucians interpretation could have been different. I hope its something I can aplish with my abilities. She followed Dalton as he led her to the room of the Grand Dukes son. Dalton tilted his head in confusion as he matched his pace with Ariel, who walked far slower than him. He had felt like he was being tricked or watching a terrible y when the Grand Dukes son announced that he would be getting married to the overnight visitor. But it was strange to see how calmly the little girl who would be his bride was taking the situation. Is it because shes someone the Grand Duke La Cartes son chose, even if hes not quite sane? She doesnt act like other children around her age. Of course, she just looks like a cute little animal on the outside. Dalton struggled to keep his face from loosening up at the thought. Were here, Miss. Dalton knocked and opened the door for her. Ariel gasped in admiration at the tall doors. But its what was inside these doors that she should have really been admiring. When she stepped into the room, a magnificent scene unfolded in front of her eyes. It was arge and luxurious room that made her realize that it really was the Grand Dukes ce. You cant evenpare this room to the room I was on the first night. The plum-colored carpet on the floor and the huge lion leather carpet next to the bed caught her eye. The sunlight poured in from several long windows which were the height of two people and filled the room. There was a fire sparking from the coal in the huge firece which was made of marble that had a pattern crafted into it as if it were a piece of art, and there was a deer head on the wall above it, showing off its beautiful antlers. The dark-colored ebony desk was messy as if it were reflecting the room owners personality, but there wasnt a single pen on that desk that was useless. There was the fur of a rare gray bear on a long chair, and the candle holder by the bedside had been made from red coral. It was a luxurious and fancy environment that looked like it couldpete against the room of any countrys prince. This was why the things in Jeromes room. This made it easy to understand why he thought of the expensive items in Jeromes room were all trash. And in the middle of this room was a beautiful boy whose beauty made all the color in the room except him disappear. Youre here, kid. Ariel puffed her cheeks. How dare he call his wife a kid! Come in. Dalton closed the door silently after letting Ariel in. She walked carefully on the carpet, which looked too expensive to step on. Frustrated by this, Lucian walked towards Ariel and lifted her up. Ah. Then he tossed her onto therge ebony desk. It must take hours for you to walk around this room with those short legs of yours. It wouldnt take hours. Ariel thought that she needed to get used to him lifting her up as if she were a small baby rabbit. After Lucian sat on the table with her, she carefully asked. Can I hear your contract conditions now? Youre impatient. He tapped his fingers slowly on therge ebony desk. Even this simple action looked like a painting when he did it. Theter you hear it, the better. Lucian looked into Ariels eyes. She shivered subconsciously as she met his cold, dark blue eyes. Lucian leaned on his arm on the desk where Ariel sat. The contract conditions are simple. He stretched his long, fair fingers slowly. Do your job as my wife. Obey mymands. And. Lucian smoothly lifted Ariels red hair. He spoke in a sweet voice. Your life is mine even after the marriage is over. * * * . Ariel gulped. What did he mean when he saidher life was his even after their marriage was over? Did Lucian want to own her magic and use it as he pleased forever like he did? Since everyone she met wanted to have her magic, Lucian may not be any different from them. But deep down in Ariels heart, she believed otherwise. No. Lucian said he wanted to help me. He had offered his hand to her even when they had met as enemies previously. She believed he wouldnt do anything that would bring her harm. Ariel had a bit of trust in him because of her memory of him from the past. And if it wasnt for him, I wouldnt have been able to escape from the Marquis house. There would have been no life left for her if that happened. Ariel had nothing to lose. It was better to jump into something uncertain than walk towards a miserable ending. I understand. When Ariel replied simply, Lucian paused for a moment and frowned elegantly. Arent you scared? Who knows what Ill do with you. She bit her small lips. Ill be prepared for it. . He let out augh after a long silence. You, youre a funnier kid than I expected. Ariel tilted her head. Lucian whispered I thought she was an herbivore because shes small and white, but I guess shes a carnivore, and pulled out a piece of paper. Then lets write the contract. Ariel followed his writing on the contract and read it. There were four things on the contract. Lucian was the contractor, and Ariel was the subcontractor. 1. The subcontractor will receive 7 years of protection from the Grand Duke family as the wife of the contractor until she bes an adult. 2. During the marriage, both will act as a couple publicly and fulfill their own roles. 3. For 7 years, the subcontractor will obey the contractorsmands as his wizard. 4. The marriage will be over once the subcontractor reaches adulthood. Ariel raised her head after she had finished reading. There arent any conditions that work against me? Just be by his side for 7 years as his wizard and then she would be free. There was no condition anywhere that restricted her forever. When she looked up at him with confused eyes, he smiled and stamped the area next to the text that said contractor. Do you not have any more conditions? I dont. He pushed the stamp ink towards her. Here. You fearless kid. Ariel noticed that the ink was magic stamp ink. Magical items in the empire were very rare and expensive. Among those, magical stamp ink could make a normal contract into a magical contract. This meant the effect of the contract would still be there even if the contract itself was lost. Ariel read the contract again several times before stamping because she couldnt believe it. Push. There on the paper were two fingerprint stamps which were significantly different in size. Ariels thumb was simr in size to Lucians pinky. Lucian handed the contract to her and spoke as he rubbed the red stamp ink off his finger. Ill let you know now. Even though youre my wizard, theres no need for you to protect me. Im not weak enough to be protected by you. ? Ariel felt like she was diving deeper and deeper into abyrinth. She was getting into an unfair contract, and it was advantageous for her. What was she supposed to do at times like this? Lucian lightly tossed something at her as she continued to be fl.u.s.tered. Keep this. Toss. Ariel caught the velvet case he threw in midair with her two hands. Its a wedding gift. Ariel wondered what gift she could possibly need at this point. The mine was given to the Marquis, he refused marriage gifts from her family, and even the contract conditions were advantageous for her. Open it. Yes. When she opened the box, the family heirloom ne from earlier was on a piece of silk cloth. Why this? Lucian got up from his chair and faced Ariel, who was still sitting on the desk. He spoke as if he were whispering. This is trash, but keep it well until Ipletely ruin Marquis Lucilleons family. If you took out what he was saying, it sounded pretty caring. The problem was that you couldnt take it out. Lucian raised her chin with his index finger to meet her eyes. He seemed strangely joyful. This is thest piece of trash youll ever have. From now on you wont be having any more of these poorly made toys. For Ariel, this was already too much. Since it was like a pir of the Marquis family had been taken out and brought to her. But Lucian dered arrogantly. Youre only going to have real things now. END OF CHAPTER 12. Chapter 13 Youll only have the real thing now. Ariel gasped and nodded, then he took his hand off her chin. Lucians eyes glowed with satisfaction. Then lets go get married. The informal wedding soon ended. The role of the witness was yed by the treasurer Dalton, and Ariel and Lucian exchanged a pair of rings, which are relics of the Grand Duke. Ariel briefly wondered why the Grand Duke did note to his own sons wedding, and soon remembered that her father was absent as well. After the short wedding ceremony, Dalton resolutely pushed Lucian and Ariel into one room. You two have to use one room today because its the first day of your marriage. Ill have to get rid of the man who made thatw. Lucian gave off a scary and displeased look, but when he was told that the marriage ceremony would beplete, even if it was nominal, he left her in his room and disappeared. Ariel, who was left alone, sat idle and went out at Susans call. Susan held a big mug at Ariels hands. Try it, its hot chocte. So this is a hot chocte. On the surface, it was just a hot, light brown liquid. But the liquid had an immensely sweet smell. Ariel closed her eyes tightly and took a sip of the hot chocte. ..! She felt like she finally knew what ecstasy was after tasting hot chocte for the first time in her life. As the dark brown liquid flowed into her stomach, her whole body melted. I think I can drink this every day if they ask me to. Susan knew that she had a hard time getting married, so she sprinkled marshmallows on hot chocte. When the night came, Susan took Ariel to the bath and changed her dress to a childs nightgown with whitece. After today, your room will be all decorated. Susan, speaking kindly, kissed Ariels cheeks. Ariel shyly stroked her cheek that got kissed. Susan smelled like freshly baked bread and sun-driedundry. Susan sent Ariel back to Lucians room. Ariel waited for Lucian for some time, but when he hadnt returned for a while, she burrowed herself under the covers. That was how close she was to falling asleep. *step* Lucian came through the window into the room. Hees in through the window when hees to his room as well? Ariel thought it was amazing so she smiled slightly. But Lucian stumbled a little, grabbed the window frame and spat out curses. That bastard, Hector. I said I wouldnt drink. Wrapping his hand around his temple, he stumbled and fell into the chair. Ariel thought Lucian was sick, so she got up and ran to him. LordAre you all right? (t/n: shes calling him (daegongjanim) which trantes to Confucious (?) or Lord or Sir.) She asked, but there was no answer. Ariel walked a little closer to look at him. Lucian smelled like wine. Alcohol? Ariel, who got startled started backing away. This was more of a reflexive action. Her father, the Marquis, bes more violent when he getsdrunk. She hurried back and returned to the bed. Then she wrapped herself with the quilt, from the top of her head like a cocoon. Drunk men are scary. Lucian is still a boy rather than a man, but she was still scared. (t/n: wait I forgot hes like, 14) As if to protect herself, she wrapped the quilt tightly and focused closely on Lucian. But after a long time, he didnt move an inch. It looks like he had fallen asleep. Ariel who slowly rxed, slipped out of the quilt and crept up to Lucian. Oh my gosh. Who gave a 14-year-old drink? Come to think of it, I think I saw a very big man with Lucian earlier. Is it him? Ariel, who was trying to recall the culprits appearance, soon got caught up by the appearance of the boy in front of her. Words flowed out of her mouth without realizing it. ..pretty. Lucian, who fell asleep, seemed a little distressed. But he did not seem to be like the vicious Young Lord that he is during the day, but a harmless boy who was only 14 years old. Ariel once again thought he was very beautiful. ..I want to touch him. She would never have done it if Lucian was a little awake, but now he was not even moving. Ariel looked back and carefully looked down at him, hoping that he would not wake up. Can I touch him? In the pouring moonlight, Lucian look like an unrealistic sculpture. Ariel poked him in the face, with her fingertips. Its warm. The boys cheek, which was still a little rounded, was warm. Then she touched his sharp nose and lips. The lips, which seemed to be red, were soft and moist. Ariel reached out a little more boldly. His ck hair is a mess. When she swept the boys hair with her small hand, a smile came out of her lips. Wow, it feels so good Even though its just a contract, she still cant believe that this handsome man in front of her is her husband. Ariel held Lucians head with both hands and leaned it on the chair that he is lying in. Being next to him while hes asleep made her realize that they are really married. Well,e to think of it, his clothes might feel ufortable Lucian was dressed in the same robes he wore at the wedding earlier. The buttons of his shirt were buttoned up to the neck, and the cape was tied tightly. Ariel shook Lucians shirt slightly. Well, My Lord. Ill just remove thisthen Ill go to sleep. She whispered, but the sleeping boy didnt budge. Ariel had no power to move Lucian, who was much taller than her. Besides, she had a strong fear of a drunk man. But, since Im his wife I guess I should at least untie them. Ariel carefully unbuttoned Lucians shirt. When the top two buttons were unfastened, his fair corbone was revealed between the open clothes. Ariels cheeks flushed. She felt ashamed of herself. She unknotted his cape. When she loosened some stuff that might give Lucian a hard time breathing, his expression in sleep became slightlyfortable. Ariel search him for more things that might cause him difort. I wish you could take off your shoes, but I dont know how to undo the buckle Ah, hes wearing a sword. Lucian had a long sword tied to his waist. It seemed ufortable. Ariel gently stretched her hand to pull out the sword. But as soon as her small hand was about to reach it, Lucian, who had never moved before, suddenly tossed and turned. Kyaaa! Ariel screamed internally and ran away back to the bed. Is he awake? Is he awake? She covered herself with the quilt once again and closed her eyes tightly. I dont know anymore. I did my best as the Young Lords wife. She thought with a quilt still round her head like a hibernating squirrel. I wish tomorrow woulde sooner. And then she fell asleep ufortably in that position. It was alreadyte in the morning when Lucian opened his eyes the next day. When he got up and pulled the string, Allen, the butler, came in and prepared water to drink. The wine Hector forced on him yesterday had long been gone, but he tilted the ss of water with an unpleasant look. Get Dalton. Yes, young lord. Lucian, who is left alone once again after the butler Allen left, smiled at the loose cape strap and the unbuttoned button on the top of his shirt. I could see whose skill this was. that little kid. No one in this house could touch his clothes. Even the people outside this house. There is no need to recall thest days of humans who dared to touch his body. But for now, Ariel is my wife A light shed through his eyes, imagining that a little girl unbuttoning his shirt. *knock**knock* Dalton, who hadbed his hair neatly, knocked in. He coughed loudly when he saw a ck-haired boy with a disheveled clothes and hair. Dear young lord, today is the day you have to go to the academy and you decided to drink alcoholst night. Lucian ignored his words and asked. What about the kid? If youre talking about the girl, shes gone back to sleep after eating breakfast. Young master must have made her sleep badlyst night. Youre already on my wifes side? Lucian, who looked at him ridiculously swept his hair up. I have a work for you. Spread the rumors on the capital. What rumors? Lucian loosened the cape on his shoulder and threw it into the bed. The rumor about Arie. Didnt you bring a bunch of junk out of the Marquis mansion yesterday? Yes. The Marquis of Lucilleon pampered his daughter, whom he had only kept inside the mansion, so much that when she got married, he sent his family heirloom and other valuable items to her by carriage. Thats. The boy took off his top and grinned widely You know what my wifes reputation is. Im asking you to save that kids honor. Dalton asked out of spirits. Could it be that this was the reason the marquis were in trouble yesterday? Then what do you think I brought out those garbage for? Due to Lucians intimidating aura who asked back, Dalton gave up asking more. Even though this young Grand Duke had a severe personality problem, this shit probably had his own reason. Is that all I have to do? Oh, heres the Academys papers. Lucian picked up his bathrobe and pointed at the desk with his jaw. Leave it there. Ill take a shower and look at it. Yes. Then Ill go out. Just as Dalton was leaving the room, Lucians voice was heard. Ah, Ill change your desk into marble. What? Dalton had a puzzled look on his face for a moment. Whats the matter has the young master gone crazy? When Lucian saw his nk face, heughed evilly. The wood is not good for breaking down. Ariel who just woke up from her sleep took the small spoon that Susan gave her. You have to eat this while its warm, dear. Its a freshly made milk pudding. Milk? Pudding? The savory scent spread in her mouth when she tried a spoonful of it, while still half asleep and half awake. Chapter 14 Susan drizzled brown caramel sauce on the milk pudding. As the intense scent of the thick syrupy sugar oozes away, and her sleepiness disappeared. Ariel scooped up a spoonful of pudding. Ah, its so soft. Weve finished decorating your room just now. Are you excited? Yes, Im looking forward to it. When Ariel spoke frankly while still holding a spoon full of the pudding, Susan smiled and stroked Ariels face. Youre so cute. Then another voice interrupted. Let me borrow that cute thing. Young master! Susan called in panic when she saw Lucian put his arms around Ariels waist and lifts her up. You cant treat her like that. But Ariel quickly chimed in and said, Its all right, Susan. I should get used to this. Lucian took Ariel down to the first floor. Ariel noticed that he was dressed quite neatly. Lord, where are we going? Not we, just me. Ah, so I have to be a wife seeing her husband off? Ariel hugged her head and face in case she looked shameful. You look like a cat, washing its face. Lucian teased. She was a little upset, but she had nothing to refute because it was true. Ariel asked him. When will youe back after you go? Next year. What? She was now wondering if she had misheard what he said. Its January. Its a year from now, isnt it? Lucian put her down about three steps up from him on the stairs. The difference in their line of sight has narrowed. I originally have to go to the academy in January. Ariel felt like she was suddenly sshed in cold water. Youre going to the Academy? Come to think of it, when she still lived in the marquiss house, her brother, Jerome went to the Academy in January when he was 14. Jerome seems like apletely different creature from Lucian that shepletely forgot. He folded his arms and leaned against the railing of the stairs. I was supposed to leave yesterday. I dyed it for a day because we had the wedding. I Ariel wanted to say something, but there was nothing she could say. Lucian didnt do anything against the contract. He married her, and he kept his promise that hell take her out of the Marquis house and protected her here. Its just that.hes leaving. But that alone began to make her feel uneasy at one moment. Although he is an unruly boy, Lucian was the only one who had ties with her in this house. Cant you.not go? But she couldnt say that. She wanted to act childish, but Ariel knew well that she didnt deserve it. She felt like tears woulde out of her eyes. . Lucian felt a strange feeling when he saw the face of the girl in front of him turn into like a child getting separated apart from her mother. What the hell did you see in me to believe in me like this. He didnt expect this reaction because she ate and slept just fine in this house. He thought shed just wave her hand to say goodbye. Youre weird. He felt strange seeing it, too. Isnt it normal to feel good because my desire to dominate is satisfied? He pinched Ariels cheeks as he looked at her moistened eyes. P-pweash wet gwo. It was not until he found out that the tears were about to spill out from her round eyes that he let go. I have an order for you before I go. Order? Ariel grabbed her throbbing cheek and looked up at him. Thats right. Lucian stretched his white, long fingers one after the other. First. No magic until Ie back. Ariel was puzzled. A master who tells his Mage not to use magic? Second. When Im not there, your guardian will be the Grand Duke Mathius. My father just ignore him. I-is that an order? The third and thest. Lucian held Ariels little cheek with one hand and pressed her lips with his thumb. Call me properly. I thought I was calling him quite properly. Ariel looked at him with an expression that clearly says her thoughts and Lucian crumpled his forehead. Are you going to keep calling me Lord? Then Sir Lucian? His expression became a little scarier. Get rid of the Sir .Lucian. Thats right. He smiled as if he was proud of her but whates next after that sounded more like a threat. Ill punish you if you dont say it right the next time we meet. Yes. When Ariel responded, Lucian nced outside. Then Im going. Ahh, wait Ariel hesitated, but quickly closed her mouth when she caught sight of people who hade to see him off. Perhaps due to the departure of the only heir in the Grand Duke, all the servants, including Susan, and Dalton, were seeing him off as well, at the front door. Lucian walked towards an old man with gray hair and took a coat from him. He looks very natural being served. Ariel stopped on the stairs and watched him go. Hes really..going away. But Lucian, who went out to the front door and was greeted, suddenly turned around. He walked back as if he had forgotten something. The eyes of the everyone present turned to Lucian at once. With a long legs that looks different from other boys his age, he quickly strode and approached Ariel and pulled her back towards himself. And his lips touched Ariels forehead. *chu* .?! As Ariel looked at him in astonishment, Lucian grinned. You have to gain some weight before we meet again. You look like a hairless chick than a human right now. With a kiss on her forehead, he disappeared from her sight with faster steps than when he walked back towards her. Ariel frowned and mumbled. Uhreally rude. But Ariel rubbed her forehead where his lips touched. Somehow, my heart is fluttering. You have to go see the Grand Duke now, mydy. Dalton, who returned after seeing Lucian off, led Ariel. The Grand Duke. Ariel felt her lips dry from tension. Although he married the Grand Dukes heir, she still never met the Grand Duke himself. He didnte to the wedding either. Although Lucian had agree with the marriage, it was highly likely that the Grand Duke did not like the marriage. A shabby girl who suddenly fell in front of the gate married his son in a day. Besides, Ariel doesnt have anything worthy to be the bride of Lucian, the next Grand Duke. Shes ten years old but looks too young for her age and shes ugly, and has a hideous appearance as well. The only thing I can do is magic, but now its useless because Lucian banned it. Wherever you look, there isnt anything in herself thats likable for an adult. When she still lived in the Marquis house, the maids said that all children that adults favor are liked for a reason. Look at Young Master Jerome. How pure! How can you evenpare that attic child to him? That child is so weird, she doesnt make a single sound even when she gets beaten. Its cute when kids are little chubby like Young Master Jerome. Isnt it obvious that youll like to give more delicious things to a chubby kid and a stick-like one? Like Young Master Jerome, you have to speak informally to an adult and act spoil sometimes to be like a child. Youre not even asking for anything. Youre just being sullen. Ariel, who has her existence always been denied since she was young, could not have glowed as a child. In addition, the body of a child whos always abused could not have been chubby without proper eating. But the servants didnt care a bit about it. They were all on Jeromes side. No matter how violent Jerome was towards her, they still loved him, and Ariel, who had no one at all, was hated by him breathlessly. Even the butler and the head maid talked about how upsetting and creepy Ariel was in every situation. They used topare the weak Ariel to the next Marquis, Jerome. Ariel, who had never been treated so warmly by an adult until she was seventeen years old, thought that the reason was herself. But this time I dont want to be hated by Lucians father. She didnt want to hurt someones feelings just because she wanted to change her life. Ariel froze up and entered the Oval Office of the Grand Duke. Dalton carefully knocked inside to get the attention of the Grand Duke, who was busy, focusing on his work. When the Grand Duke raised his head, Ariel forgot her fear and admired him instead. Wah! He looks like Lucian And hes so handsome. Unlike Lucian, who had short ck hair, the Grand Duke had long ck hair. He looks so young. It was an unbelievable that he already has a grown son like Lucian. Still, there was no denying that ck hair and deep blue eyes were the same as Lucians. However, if Lucian looks like an arrogant and spoiled little boy. The Grand Duke was a proud handsome man with a solemn and cool impression. Both were as sure as having a very beautiful appearance. Dalton said in a small voice. I Grand Duke. The pressure. The Grand Duke nodded half-heartedly at his words. The pressure filling the room slowly disappeared. Ariel greeted him with courtesy. Hello, Grand Duke Mathius. My name is Ariel. . The Grand Duke responded to her with an indifferent look. After a while, he opened his mouth. .So youre the girl Lucian took in. After hearing the Grand Dukes words, Ariel lowered her head a little, As expected. As expected, the Grand Duke wont wee this marriage. If he look at me, he will feel more betrayed The first thing I said when I saw her was that she was The girl Lucian took in. Ariel couldnt even tell the Grand Duke that shell divorce him once she became an adult because Lucian told her to keep everything about the contract marriage a secret. Hell probably feel better if I told him that. Ariel was wallowing in her negative thought, when the Grand Duke suddenly talked in a blunt tone. I cant believe he left this girl to me. What a crazy boy. Ariel blinked her long eyshes and opened her eyes round. Why does it sounded like.Lucian is the problem, not me. Everyone in that house really treated her like trash even those maids. Whats with their logic? Daang.Thats why her confidence is 0 Chapter 15 The Grand Duke muttered as he looked at Ariel, who held her small hands together. I think, I understand it now that I see you. Dalton crept in from the side. Yes. I was wondering what the Young Master was going to do again, but I was convinced when I saw her as well. Shes a very lovely person. Ariel shook her head. Somehow things were going against her expectations. The Grand Duke beckoned Ariel. Come closer. Ariel faltered but she stepped closer. Then, with a gesture that urges her toe closer, she started walking towards the Grand Dukes desk and approached the chair where he was sitting. The Grand Duke asked Ariel. How old are you? Im ten years oldGrand Duke. He looked at Dalton with an unconvinced face. Dalton. Wasnt Lucian this small when he was six? Yes, hes as big as this girl back then. There must be a problem. The Grand Duke frowned his brow. His cool handsome face of the ascetic impression looked beautiful even with a frown. He rose from his chair and stood opposite Ariel. The height of the Grand Duke was enormous, and Ariel has to raise her head all the way just to look at him. My neck hurts. Will Lucian grow this big when he grows up? The Grand Duke looked at her and said in a leisurely manner. All right, Arie. Starting now, youre the Lady of this house. Pardon? Ariel breathed, only half-understanding his words. B-but I only got married yesterday. Since there is no Lady of the house right now, you will take that position. The Grand Dukes words were as clear as the day. Feeling a little flustered, Ariel recalled her contract with Lucian for a moment. [First, you have to fulfill your duty as my wife] Yes, I promised him to do my duty as a wife. Of course, the wifes duty would also include the work of the Grand Duchess. Ariel clenched her small fists. Yes, Ill do my best. No. Excuse me? The Grand Duke said with a cool look. I mean this house is all yours now. You dont have to work hard. Uh Dont work hard and enjoy yourself for now. I didnt do anything but he told me to enjoy things. Thats Ariel hesitated to answer. The Grand Duke spoke in a stiff tone. For young children, rightse first. Dutyes next. Adults are the opposite. .. So learn to enjoy your rights first before doing your duty as the Grand Duchess. Ariel couldnt understand what the Grand Duke was saying. But she needed to answer for now so she spoke in a small voice. yes. The corners of the Grand Dukes mouth loosened. Good girl. He reached out to Ariels head. ! There was no sign of violence at all, but Ariel got instinctively startled and huddled at the sudden gesture. Since shes often hit by her father, Marquis Lucillion, it was a reflex that urred by itself. . The Grand Duke, who was reaching out as if to stroke her head, stopped moving. After a moment of silence, he naturally withdrew his hand and pulled a string. Are you angry? Because Im notacting like a normal child? Ariel tried to read the eyes of the Grand Duke. She cannot fully read the expressionless face of the Grand Duke, but it didnt seemed like hes angry. Ariel, who was often abused and exploited, was sensitive to human touch. Ill introduce you to some oft he people in the mansion. Two people arrived at the call of the Grand Duke. Ariel smiled when she found a familiar face. It was the maid, Susan. And beside her stood a gray-haired old man who politely handed Lucians coat over to him earlier. The two came to the ce where the Grand Duke and Ariel stood and bowed their heads. The Grand Duke pointed at Ariel then continued speaking. From now on, this child is the Lady of La Carte. Treat her as your master. After he gave his order, Susan and the gray-haired old man bowed at Ariel. It was a very polite greeting. Nice to meet you for the first time, Mdy. Im Allen, head butler of the house. (t/n: he called him (manim) which can trante to Lady, Madam, Mdy or Mrs. which can be used for married women or girls who already debuted in the society.) Shes still young, but now that shes married, its natural to be called Mdy. Ariel, who grew up differently from other esteemed daughters of the nobility, feels awkward to be called ady anyway. When Allen, the old butler, finished greeting, the maid Susan approached Ariel and bent her waist to meet her eye level. Hello, Little Lady. You already know me, right? Im going to be the babysitter for the time being. Susans greeting was sweet and friendly. Ariel liked both the old butler Allen, who was polite to her, and Susan, who treated her like a normal child. The Grand Duke who introduced the two turned to Ariel. These two will show you around the house and get you what you need. Yes, Grand Duke. When Ariel bowed politely, the Grand Duke looked strangely ufortable. Mathius. Yes? Call me Mathius. This time, Ariel didnt hesitate either. I cant do that. Why? Its okay because Lucian is my husband, but youre an adult. I cant just call you by name. Ariel also had her own standard. The Grand Dukeughed low at her bashful voice. Then what will you call me? I will not ept you calling me Grand Duke. Um, then. Ariel frowned her small forehead and said after much thought. Sir Mathius, Ill call you this. The Grand Duke nodded. I ept it. Go ahead. Your room is ready. Yes, Sir Mathius. Ariel replied quietly, and after contemting for a while, she added other words. Thank you. For epting me as Lucians wife and as thedy of this house. For not forcing to stroke my head. And most of all. for not hating me. Whispering only in her heart, Ariel expressed her gratitude for him. Mathius only nodded his head bluntly when at her words. When they finally left the office, the words Find out about the Marquis of Lucilion.seemed to be heard behind the closed doors. Mdy, Ill tour you around the mansion step by step. Is that gonna be okay? When they left Mathius office, the old-man who introduced himself as Allen asked politely. Ariel nodded. It was clear that the mansion would be very huge that she would get lost if she walked around by herself without being guided. Wouldnt it be embarrassing if the Lady of the House got lost in her own house? Moreover, I had to stay in this house for seven years anyway, so I think it would be better to know about the mansion as soon as possible. Okay. Nice to meet you, Allen. As Ariel smiled shyly and spoke, Allens expression, who had been polite all the time, was slightly loosened in affection. ..yes, Mdy. Ariel, who parted with Allen, headed to her room with Susan. The road was quite long, but Susan told me many stories so that I wouldnt get bored. Mr. Allens previous family has served the La Carte family for a very long time. Nobody even knows how many generations exactly they have been in charge of the Grand Duke. Uwaa, thats incredible. Mr. Allen was also the person who got permission to serve the Great Lord. I see. Ariels new respect for the old butler Allen has grown. It was great to be loyal to one family for a long time, but it seemed great to have gained the trust of Lucian. Well, Im more surprised that you were calling the Great Lord by his name. Susan had a slightly troubled look on her face, and soon smiled amiably. The Great Lord hates being called by his name. No one calls him by his name but you. What? But Lucian told me to call him that himself Surprised by the unexpected fact, Ariel felt puzzled. Even Mr. Allen call the Great Lord just as Lord. I see. Ariel nodded without further questioning why. There must be a reason why Lucian hates being called by his name. But for some reason, he asked her to call him by his name. Susan sounded excited as they got closer to the room. I had so much fun decorating your room. The general outline came from the Grand Duke, but Im the one who decided how to decorate it. Even though it wasnt her own room, Susans image of being happy and devoted to her work tickled Ariels heart. I like everything..Susan does. Oh dear. Susan smiled, moved at her words. Do you want to see it so that well know if youll like it more? I really hope youll like it. Soon, Susan stopped in front of a room. It was a room with double tall doors like Lucians. The door was beautifully painted in light pink on a white background. From the outside, it was a door obviously belongs to a little girls room. However, the borderline of the door was engraved in the shape of chocte and painted in gold, adding to the elegance of the Grand Duchess. Come on, go in. Susan opened the door wide in front of Ariel. .! Ariel looked around the room and stopped at the threshold. Herrge round strawberry-colored eyes were filled with awe. So pretty! The whole interior was decorated with a charming and girly look, just like a princess room of a certain country. The first thing that caught her eyes was therge pumpkin carriage-shaped bed inside the room. Warm pink body, dazzling white wheels, and its side was carved with dreamlike patterns. Inside the bed were creamy bedding and light pink cushions. Is this really my room? Ariel walked slowly into the room. There was a huge round rug on the floor. Its made up of a very soft fur, she thought she could fall asleep on it. A full-body mirror with a pink frame was nting slightly upward, illuminating the ceilings chandelier, which illuminates the entire room. There was also arge desk that Ariel could use. Aww another best papa over here! I like how hes not overly cold and not overly affectionate either. Just right but he obviously care about her I wonder why though? Chapter 16 On the desk were gold candlesticks covered with porcin and small cherub-shaped decorations made of white ster. I feel like Im dreaming. Ariels words brought a lowugh to Susan. The room was wide enough to run around it freely. The sofa was made of pink-toned velvet and the table was covered with a carefully wovence cover. The day bed, where she can take a nap, had a cozy tent-shaped canopy, so she could easily fall asleep during the day when the sun was still shining. Next to it, the round chair, which was lined from the ceiling, looked lovely andfortable. But the most surprising thing was the window. As Ariel approached the window, she stepped up and opened it. Woooow! Outside the 4th-floor ss window, a view of the garden can be clearly seen. Ariel always wanted a room with such a big window. It fills the room with warm sunshine and a sweet floral scent from the wind The attic where she was confined by the Marquis was full of dust and was always dim, and there were only palm-sized windows that could not be opened inside. This feels so unreal. Ariels pale cheeks, who grew up with little sunlight, were stained with the sun and wind pouring through the window. Ariel looked around the room one more time, enchanted. This ce was very different from the attic where Ariel lived until she was nine years old. The attic was hot in summer and cold in winter. It was particrly really hard for her whenever its winter, like this. She had to spend a whole winters night cowering, shivering in the cold while only wearing old clothes that almost look like rags and without any warm nket or even bed. If Ariel could not keep warm by magic, she would have frozen to death already. Ariels room, which Susan showed and prepared for her, was such a nice room that looks like she had been in the imperial pce. Im really. happy. Ariel spoke sincerely. She couldnt believe to be in such a pretty room. . Susan looked mournful when she heard Ariel. It was obvious that the little girl in front of her had never experienced anything like this. Besides, she was abused by her biological father. Susan felt proud of Ariel, who grew up so lovingly in such a ce. Did you like it? Ariel stretched out his arms into the sky and cried out in a circle. Yes! Very, very. When living in the Marquis, Ariel didnt own anything for herself. Even the lowest maids have their own clothes, and Jeromes hounds have their own rice bowls, but Ariel didnt. She received only the leftovers of the servants rations or the clothes of the small maids that were to be discarded. It was an unimaginable treatment for the youngdy of a Marquis. Even the attic, where she lived, was originally a ce to put away books that took up unnecessary space. But it was different in the Grand Duke. Clothes prepared only for her, food that is only meant to be eaten by her, space only for her. Rather than the pretty decorations and a room that looks like it belongs to a princess, Ariel was more moved that all this was only for her. Perhaps she would be already d to have a simple bed and a desk in a room. But this room was so pretty. Theres a lot of .pink. Ariel thought pink was the most beautiful color in the world. The mere sight of pink made her feel good. Its a color thats never found in anything old or dirty. She also likes soft and fluffy things. To Ariel, who had never experienced her mothers embrace, it reminded her of something warm and cozy. Ariel thought the soft slippers were warm to her when she wore them. She thinks lying on a fluffy bed feels warm and cozy. This house is warm to her. This fire is also cozy for her. Ariel really liked the warm and cozy things. This room is all pink and fluffy things, and Susan is gently stroking her hair Susan exined kindly. The room right next door is my room. Pull that rope over there and Ille running. If you need anything, feel free to call me. You got it, right? Okay, Susan. When she saw a cute red-haired girl looking at her with confidence, Susan swallowed a small sigh. How can you be so lovely? She patted Ariels hair. Then shall we finish up our next schedule? Ariel opened her round eyes and asked. What is it? My next job is to walk you around the house and introduce you to the other servants so why dont we dress you up a little bit more? Susan, who said so, called in a hairdressing maid dedicated to the Grand Duke to trim Ariels hair. Her scarlet red hair down to her hips was very pretty, but it was a little cumbersome because it was too long. The maid cut off her hair near Ariels waist. Susan made it stop because she thought it was a perfect length. Any hairstyle would be cute at this length. After sending the maid off, Susan put Ariel in a small chair and styled her hair. It was all pretty to tie a ribbon low and tie it high, leaving only some baby hairs. Itll be cute in half up-do, half twisted bun, or even in straight! After decades of not taking care of a girl, Susan smiled merrily, recalling dozens of different hairstyles in her head. Lucian was the only young child in this house, but Lucian was a formidable master who never had a cute side even from the beginning. But this cute child suddenly came in. Susan felt like a big pretty ruby came to her heart and hugged her. Ariel, meanwhile, closed her eyes because she liked the feeling of someone gently touching her hair. *caress* Small, regr noises gentlybing her hair to prevent it from being messy. And a warm touch in her back. Ariel wished this moment wouldst forever. If someone touches her hair like this all her life, she wont need a nice room at all. She can even go back to the attic if she had this warmth with her. At this moment, a room in Ariels heart that could not be seen with eyes opened. Ariel weed someone in that new room in her heart. And the person who now lives in that new room was Susan. The next morning. Ariel woke up from the pumpkin carriage bed and rubbed her eyes. Haaaaa-m. She pulled herself up after a while and crawled back in the warm nket. When she looked at the ceiling of the bed, she could see a map of the constetion drawn in soft colors. Aries, snow-capped mountain constetion, Gemini. Ariel who stretched out her little finger and followed the map of constetions, suddenly heard her stomach growl. Ariel rose up and carefully pulled the leash with her shaky hand. Is this right? She looked at the rope with a nervous heart and Susan came into the room. Youre up.. Susan approached Ariel and kissed her cheek. Young Lady, did you sleep well? I slept well. How about Susan? I slept well, too. Susan, who spoke as if she were singing, diligently rolled up the window curtains in Ariels room and set Ariel at the table. Her breakfast was cream soup with young mint leaves and bread with candied chestnuts. When Ariel finished eating, Susan wiped the area around her mouth like a baby. Youre done. Im so proud of you. Ariel got shy and wiggled her toes. All I did was eat delicious food, but I was praised. The marquis often scolds her for leaving food behind when shes too full, but he also often ridiculed her for finishing it when shes hungry. Susan dressed Ariel in a sky-blue dress and tied a white silk ribbon beautifully from the back of her head to the top of her head. The red hair and the white ribbon contrasted with each other, making them look very bright and lovely. Now, shall I call for Mr. Allen? Allen, the old butler, showed up again today with a fixed posture and a unique polite atmosphere. Then he greeted Ariel the same as before. He bowed down with his nose almost touching the ground before he even said hello. Its good to see you, mdy. Although she is still not used to such polite treatment, Ariel also greeted him. Ill show you around the La Carte mansion. Ariel looked back briefly, and Susan smiled and waved at her. Ariel looks up at Allen slightly from time to time while they were walking. Unlike when she walked with Susan, there was no conversation between the two. The butler, Mr. Allen was so polite that it was difficult to act like a child in front of him, unlike with Susan. Instead, whenever she stood in front of Allen, she felt that somehow, she really became an elegant princess. Still. Ariel smiled shyly at Allens steps. Even in polite circumstances, Allens pace of walking was very slow, as if he had taken into ount young Ariels stride. Allen, who came out of the main hall of the building, began to exin the shape of the mansion. This is the main hall. It leads all the way to the mansion. The Grand Duke of La Cartes castle was made up of two tall buildings connected to a cross-shaped building. The two tall buildings that look like twins contain the office of the Grand Duke and space where the people in charge of the Grand Duke work. Ariel recalled eagerly not to forget. The tall building is Sir Mathius office. The tall building is Sir Mathius office. The cross-shaped building is a living space, but it has different uses in different directions. The servants use the North Wing, and the Grand Dukes family uses the South Wing. Ariels room was also in the south. Thats why the south wing is also called the main building. The East and West wings are rooms for guests, but they were mostly empty. There is a tall tower in the center of the cross-shaped building. It is also called the Ice Star Tower. Ariels eyes glistened at the word that the tower had a name. Why did you name it that? Mr. Allen exined wisely. The old butler Allen knew the history of the mansion and family as much as he had been here for a long time. The Ice Star Tower is the bell tower of the Grand Dukes residence, and in terms of height alone, it is the tallest tower in the capital. It is even higher than the Imperial Pce. Its higher than the Imperial Pce. It was surprising that such a building existed, and the most surprising thing was that it was her home from now on. All that Ariel and Susan moments are so fluffy and warm! And please, make that Marquis suffer. HE NEEDS TO SUFFEEEER. Ah this cold rainy weather is making me sleepy andzy Chapter 17 When it gets cold enough to freeze, ice forms first in the tower here. They say that the ice shines like a star from afar. Its wonderful. When Ariel spoke, Allens expression softened in a moment. He had an infinite sense of pride in this mansion and this family. With less tension, he began to brag a little more about the wealth of the Grand Duke. This building is the capitals grandest residence, and there are two more mansions in the estate. Two more? Yes, its just in case of a generation separation, and one is bigger than the capital city, the other one is a little small but very colorful. You and the Grand Duke will inherit it when you be adults. I dont think that will happen. When she bes an adult, Lucian and her marriage will be over. Ariel closed her mouth and nodded only. Its not arge garden due tock ofnd, but the estate has arge area. Thisis a small garden? Ariel had already seen the garden where they are right now. The garden can be clearly seen through the window of her new room. It definitely doesnt look small no matter how she looks at it. But the old butler Allen continued with a look of regret. Some gardens of thend were so wide that they sometimes hold horse racing or huntingpetitions in there. UhI dont think thats still a garden. Ariel couldnt even imagine how big the alternate archaic estate was. Maybe thats why she suddenly wondered. Well, by the way, Allen. Yes, mdy. Umm.The mansion is so spacious, how do you clean it all? Allens expression grew unusual when he heard her naive question. He looked as if he were holding back hisughter. Ah, did I said something wrong? But for Ariel, it was a really valid question. She saw the maids sweep and wipe here and there all day long when she still lived in the Marquis. It took a great deal ofbor to keep an aristocratic mansion clean. But she heard from Susan that there arent that many people who work for the Grand Duke. But Ariel still hasnt seen a single dusty spot while she was walking around. Allen cleared his throat, rebuking himself, who almostughed upon hearing Ariels question. Ehem, ehm. About that The new Young Lady had the ability to release even his serious and solemn self. He finally came to his senses and answered. There is a wizard dedicated to the Grand Duke here. He does therge-scale housework. Ariels eyes were as big as ss. Theres a wizard here?! She had never heard of anything like this from Lucian. Ariel seemed very surprised and Allen exined further calmly. He wasnt doing housework from the beginning. He was originally the head wizard of the imperial family. Ariels jaw dropped a little lower. The Head Wizard of the Imperial Household?! But he quit for some reason, stayed here as a guest, and established a small business Ariel waspletely speechless. T-then, what for did I offer Lucian to be his magician for? Did he thought of making me a cleaning servant? Is that why he told me to get stronger? Shouldnt I learn some magic now that is useful for cleaning then? Regardless of Ariels confusing situation, Allen continued. Hes not only cleaning, but also controlling the temperature of the mansion. Hes controlling the temperature? Yes Ariel replied in a low voice, full of worries,What if I was just a petty wizard to Lucian? So Ariel looked around the mansion with Allen all morning, but the mansion was so big that she could only look around a fraction. She wondered if they even had seen even a tenth of it. Allen checked the watch he was wearing in his vest pocket. Its time for your snack. Ill leave you alone. Ah. Ariel realized why she was hungry. Its because its time for snacks. Allen took Ariel to Susan himself. Ill show you the gallery with artworks and sculptures in the East Wing tomorrow. Yes! Allen, thank you. Ariel greeted him brightly and Allen bowed politely. No, Ive only done my job. Ive learned a lot from Allen. Ariel held Allens wrinkled hands and leaned her cheek against it. See you tomorrow, Allen. After Ariel followed Susans footsteps and disappeared, the old butler Allen paused at the spot. It was unusual behavior for Allen, who worked for the Grand Duke did not sit still even for a moment. The old butler Allen, who had stopped, looked down at his hands. The warm warmth from the little girls soft cheeks remained in his hands. Susan served a savory yellow cheese cookie and a cup of milk as a snack. Ariel who tasted the vor of the fragrant cheese cookies now has cookie crumbs on her lips. Susan taught her to put cookies in milk. If you soak cookies in milk and eat them, you will feel more vor. Ill try. Ariel dipped the yellow cookie in milk and took a bite. It was crispy when she ate it as it is, but it melted smoothly when she ate it soaked in milk because its wet. Its delicious! Susanughed. The chefs been putting a lot of effort into baking cookiestely. Ill bring you more in the future. I cant believe I can eat such delicious cookies often. She doesnt know why the chef is suddenly eager to bake cookies, but Ariel thought it was very lucky. After finishing the snack, Susan said to Ariel. By the way, the Grand Duke sent a doctor for the youngdy today. Is the doctor.going to talk to me? Yes. Ariel, instinctively afraid of the doctor, hurriedly made excuses. Im not sick. Shes not here because youre sick, shes here to see how much better youre going to grow. You dont have to worry. Susan exined kindly. Ariel is still scared, but she managed to nod her head when Susan coaxed her. The doctor of the Grand Duke is a woman in her thirties. The Grand Duke had both male doctors for men and female doctors for women. He followed thew even when he had not been able to have ady in the house for decades. So the female doctor who had been called was a person who had been working on medical research for years without a patient. Hello, maam. My name is Miller. Dr. Miller greeted her. She felt different from friendly Susan and courteous Allen. Very professional and intelligent? Ariel feels like she can trust Miller because she looks so confident. Moreover, Miller, who has a suitcase, looked so cool. Im Ariel. Nice to meet you. Yes. Then, I will ask you some questions for a medical examination. Miller saw Ariel as a patient, not as thedy or a child of this house. She didnt ask Susan who was next to Ariel about her condition just because she was young, She asked her directly. How is your appetite in the morning? How is your digestion? Ariel, feeling respected as a person, tried to answer sincerely. But when Miller saw Ariels body, her face which had been so calm all along visibly hardened. This. Miller was speechless when she saw the scars all over Ariels body. The scars that Susan saw as very severe did not appear to be unusual in the eyes of Dr. Miller. Dr. Miller wrote down quickly in her notebook. [Traces of habitual assault. Presumably caused by an adult man. Scars and bruises all over the body. There is also a scab on the inner scalp of the hair, so it looks like he grabbed her hair and pulled it hard.] Miller had Ariel move her arms, legs, and shoulders slowly. fortunately, no bones or joints have been damaged. Growing tall is close to impossible when joints got damaged when young. Dr. Miller breathed a sigh of relief. Ariel recalled what would have happened if she hadnte here and got married. Perhaps she will never be able to use her left leg properly. Just like in the past. Miller, who had touched all Ariels scars, concluded. Youre still young, so if you eat well and rest well, most of the marks will heal and disappearbut some ces are too severe. Itll probably leave a scar when you grow up. Susans face hardened at Millers words. The doctor told her some precautions about diet and exercise, prescribed medicine to strengthen her body, and then went back. After the doctor returned, Ariel looked at Susan. Susan seemed to be feeling low for some reason. She didnt smile sweetly, nor pat her on the head. Ariel approached Susan out of concern. Susan, whats wrong? Did I do something wrong? Susan, who was busy cleaning her room, sighed and turned to Ariel. She held the little girls body tightly. Ariel is not Susans own. Even if the atmosphere was a little bad, she felt sorry for a child who immediately looked at the mood of an adult. She was like a young animal who gave her heart to her because she was hungry for affection. You did nothing wrong. Its just that Im heartbroken. Because of me? Susan kept thinking about what the doctor said. That means youll still have scars when you grow up. Ariel had it hard. Im fine now. My fa.ther, I wont see him anymore. Im not in pain anymore. Im fine. Susan gently swept Ariels back. Its not like that, youngdy. Susan, who took Ariel off, pointed to the girls chest. Sometimes body wounds leave scars here, too. And the scar inside it is much, much harder to erase. Susan So youngdy. You dont have to say youre okay when youre not. It should be the most precious word in the world. Do you understand? She thought Lucian was going to make her a cleaning wizard skssksksk why is she soo pure. I just wanna spoil her and make her happy oh my gosh, she even melt Allens heart. Thatst part was Chapter 18 Ariel still didnt understand why she shouldnt say shes okay easily. But one thing that she understands is that Susan really cares for her. Thats why she wanted to relieve Susan whos heart is breaking. Yes, I will. Susan peppered Ariels cheeks with kisses. But Im proud of you for growing up so prettily. Then Susan grabbed Ariels hand. Now, shall we go eat delicious fattening foods as the doctor said? Dinner will be served with the Grand Duke soon, and Ill make sure itll be loaded with high-calorie content. Can they do that for me? Of course. The food in the mansion is supposed to follow the tastes and preference of the masters. Ah Susan had a mischievous smile on her face. So if you want to be a great Lady of the house soon, you should try and experience a lot of delicious food. Is that true? Ariels head was wobbly. She felt a little suspicious that the conclusion is that she has to eat a lot of delicious food to be a good Lady of the House. But she soon held Susans warm hand. She felt like shes okay with anything as long as shes here. That kind of routine went for a day or two. Her morning starts with a kiss on the cheek from Susan and during the day, Allen, the butler, guides her around the mansion. Then shell share dinner with the blunt Grand Duke, Mathius in the evening. Mathius didnt say much when he saw that his diet was changed following Ariel. Their meals were very quiet because Mathius says nothing, while Ariel, didnt have any courage to speak first. But for Ariel who liked to eat with someone, this is better than the breakfast and lunch she eats by herself. What did you do today? That surprised me. Ariel almost dropped the knife she was holding. Today was the first time Mathius spoke to her during a meal. I meanits the first time for a month. Me? I asked you. Mathiuss tone was calm. Its as if he had been asking this on daily basis. Ariels mouth opened as she blinked her eyes. She was so nervous that her small hands under the table began to tremble. Today, I finally got introduced to all the people in the mansion. She still hasnt officially met anyone yet except for Susan and Allen. The other people greeted her whenever they ran into each other, but she still doesnt know any of them. Susan said that it was such a sudden marriage so Ariel needed time to adjust to the mansion. But Ariel knew. She knew that it was a consideration for her, who was skinny, shabby, and had scars everywhere in her body. Ariel had been eating a lot for a month now and her cheeks looks slightly plumper than before, and many scars on her hands and face had faded. So it wasnt until today that she met and got introduced to the people who worked in the mansion, of course, with the apany of the maid, Susan, and the head butler Allen. Officially, as the little Lady of this house. Ariel picked her finger and thought of the people she met. Susan said theres only a few of them, but the house was so big that it wasnt actually a small number. I said hello to gardener Woods, and I also met chef Holston. I also met the maids in charge of the womens quarters. Becky, Sally and, Anna. Ariel didnt forget the promise she made with Susan and told the maids to do it properly. It was difficult to use the Ladys way of speaking, but no one ignored orughed at Ariel just because she was young. Everyone was kind to her. Everyone seemed to look up to the name La Carte. Ariel is a wife of a La Carte, so she was able to receive all the respect as well. Mathius, who had his chin on his finger and listened quietly to her, opened his mouth. What more? More? Hmmm. Ariel frowned She unconsciously pouted as she tried to focused on remembering all that happened earlier. Ah, I painted today. Paint? Ariel began painting these days during the day as well. Susan brought small toys that can be yed with indoors, including paints and drawing tools for her, who cant go out and y because its still cold outside. Ariel became interested in painting among them, because of the novelty of colored paints she had never encountered before. She wasnt great at it, but painting was a bit like using magic. I cant use magic because of the promise with Lucian. Ariel hesitated and asked. Do you mind if I show you? She thought hed say no, but Mathius surprisingly let her. Susan brought all the paintings that Ariel painted today. Mathius leaned against the back of the chair and looked over the painting. Ariel swayed her legs nervously in the table chair. She was the one who spoke first, but when Mathius saw the painting, she felt embarrassed and anxious. What if he say I couldnt draw? It is true that I couldnt draw well, but I still felt ashamed. He picked out a painting. This painting, I like it. Ariels face lit up. Mathius said he liked it without saying if she drew it well or not. Ariel asked dly. Would you like to have it? You can give it to me just like that? Mathius said while looking at her through the paper. But before Ariel could even say Yes!, he bluntly affirmed. Im going to turn this painting into a 50 million denal piece soon. Denal was the mary unit of the empire. F-fifty million denal?! Ariel wasnt even sure how much the worth of a single piece of Denal is. But she was sure that the amount that Mathius just said was huge. By the way.why is the painting I just drew suddenly became worth such a price? Ariel looked at her painting closely. Even though it was painted on quality paper with quality pigment, it only looked like an ordinary painting painted by a ten-year-old child. Moreover, the painting is just scribbled and abstract, so it was difficult to find its characteristics except that it was free-spirited. Mathius reached out to Allen next to him. Allen. The fountain pen. Yes, Grand Duke. Allen drew a fountain pen from his vest pocket and offered it respectfully to Mathius. The fountain pen, which had briefly gone through the hands of Mathius, headed towards Ariel. Now. ? Ariel looked at Mathius, not understanding what he meant. Mathius pointed to the bottom of Ariels painting. Write your name, Ariel epted the fountain pen. She was surprised that the fountain pen with a smoky, sleek body was more frightening than she thought. [Ariel La Carte] When she carefully put her name in it, Mathius turned her head off as if she was satisfied. Good job, Then he handed over Ariels painting to Allen. Put it in a suitable frame. Allen held the painting dearly and Mathius turned back to Ariel. Ill take it for a month and then return it. By the time it gets back in your hands, itll include a certificate proving that your painting has a value of more than 50 million denals. H-how? Ariel could only blink her big eyes. Mathius, who was looking at Ariel, touched his lips and smiled. The smile that appeared so quickly also disappeared just as fast. Ariel blinked her eyes again. I thinkI just saw something amazing. Everything thates from this house is worth a fortune. Mathius called her in a low voice. Arie. Yes? All the people in the capital are talking about you right now. Even though its been a month, theres no sign of the rumors going away. There are a lot of socialites who agonize to see you even just once. Its Ariels first time hearing this. She never thought too deeply about the people outside since shes been living in a huge andfortable mansion. Mathiuszily swept his long ck hair. Its too early to let you go out, the painting should be enough. Ah Ariel seemed to be able to understand the situation a little. She has no idea whats the deal with her, but now the capital is probably half-crazy in curiosity about her identity. The Marquis of Lucilleons 10-years-old veiled daughter who had never been shown in the aristocratic circle suddenly got married to the heir of the Grand Duke. Shell definitely look like a mysterious existence in the eyes of others. It was certain that the social nobles, who like to talk about others, would be curious. The corner of Mathius mouth crept up. Throw them the painting and let them have a dogfight. What do you say? .okay. Ariel wanted to satisfy their curiosity but she didnt want to please those who tried to bring her out. One of Ariels paintings will tell them nothing about her. It will only lead to flurry spection and misceneous interpretations. When Ariel agreed, Mathius reached out his hand as if he was trying to stroke her head but he hesitated. Arge hand, which had stayed in the air for a while, came down and patted Ariels pale cheeks. Ariels cheeks blushed brightly. He got up from the table. I wont be able to join you for dessert. I have a schedule. Yes. Ariel suddenly felt a sense of regret. She finally managed to have a conversation with Mathius in a month but it seemed to have ended too quickly. Mathius, who was about to leave, picked up one of Ariels other paintings on the table. His cold, indifferent eyes got filled with a feeling of contentment. Ill have this. Ill add it to my collection. Ariels mouth opened widely when she heard him say that he will add it to his collection. For some reason, she felt more pleased about that than when her other painting became worth 50 million denals. As he went out with the picture, Mathiusmanded Allen like a pleasant lion. Hang it in my room where I can see it. The painting, which Ariel signed with a fountain pen, was handed over to Allen, the old butler, and was carefully framed. There were a lot of luxurious picture frames at the warehouse of the Grand Duke, thats expensive is enough to buy a house in the capital. Ariels paintings, however, were framed in a luxurious but simple Gothic style frame. It was to emphasize the painting rather than the frame. Dalton, who was sent out to put the painting out, wore white gloves and carefully looked at the painting through tiny lenses of his sses. imagine painting just whatever you want then your rich daddy inw suddenly turned it into a half a billion worth painting Chapter 19 After a long time, he tilted his head. I cant figure out what she drew. Judging from the shape of the painting, it was clear that it was painted by a child. The color scheme is quite usible as well. Dalton shook his head as he tried to infer what the painting expressed. No, I dont need to judge what Ariel drew. Ariel is now a La Carte, so it was wise not to make a judgment on her. One of the Empires proverbs is[Dont judge what La Carte does.] Whatever the way that works, its written in the sense of trust that whatever the La Carte did always has perfect results. But thousands of years have passed and now its meaning has changed a lot. [La Carte will not let those who judge him live]or[Dont think about what a La Carte tells you to do, just obey him.]? Well, it changed in a slightly overbearing direction. Anyway, it was foolish of him to give a remark to a La Cartes work. Dalton neatly wrapped Ariels painting and sent it as a donation to the uing imperial charity banquet. It is a ce where each aristocratic family proudly presents all kinds of rare treasures. And Ariels painting was about to make its debut there. After a months tour of the mansion with the butler, Allen, Ariel finally got to know the way so that she wouldnt got lost from that house. I should visit Dalton today. There have been a lot of questions bugging her mind, but shes afraid to ask Susan openly because she might get worried and it was difficult to ask Mathius so hes out of the list as well. Ariel safely entrusted her hair to Susans hand, determined to go to Dalton. Haaa-m, why do I feel sleepy when someone touches my hair.? Susan gently untangled her tangled hair, then she skillfully twisted it on both sides to make half a ponytail. And finally, she tied it in ck silk ribbon with an embroidery in it. Oh my, our littledy looks like ady now! Ariel carefully twirled in front of the mirror. Ive hardly gotten used to thesepliments. Then, go and have fun! Susan pushed her back gently. Ariel left the room with a thud. The room where Dalton works was close to Mathius. That means, she have to walk for quite a long time to reach it. It was not even possible to know how long it would take to walk this wide mansion on Ariels short legs. It is a moment where teleportation magic is desperately needed. But why did Lucian tell me not to use magic? Cant I use magic to got to other people because Im far away? Iwont use it for anything else anymore anyway. Ariel wondered and looked down at her leg. Her left leg, which was crippled by the hand of the Marquis in the past, feels so distant now. It hurt so much just to walk back then. Thanks to Lucians eptance of her offer, she was able to neither lose her legs nor stay in that house. Thats why I wont magic unless it was for Lucian. Ariel, who made up her mind, stepped forward boldly. Even if she doesnt use teleportation magic, she has two legs that you can walk well. Young Lady? Hello, Dalton. What brings you here No,e in first. Dalton, who couldnt make his master wait outside, quickly brought Ariel inside. Ariel went inside and sat on the sofa. *squeak* Wow, Dalton, this sofa is so soft! The sofa in her room was also soft, but the one in this room was for adults, so there was a lot more cotton in it. When Ariel looked up at him with twinkling eyes, Dalton instantly thought of a cute baby cat and grabbed his heart. Hyuk, shes so cute that my heart hurts. He began to rummage through his drawers. Wait a minute, I have something to give you. Dalton found a lot of sweets inside his drawer. And gave it all to Ariel. Eat it, Little Lady. AAll of this? Even if she tried to eat it as snacks for 3 nights and 4 days, she still wont be able to eat them all. But the giver seemed very pleased, so Ariel epted the package of snacks. Then she nibbled a snack and opened her mouth. The reason Im here today is that I want to ask you something, Dalton. Dalton, who was briefly fascinated by Ariel eating snacks like a rabbit, finally came to his senses. Yes, ask. Lucian- Hup. Ariel was about to ask but she was suddenly interrupted by Daltons hup. ? Hisplexion turned pale and I didnt even know where he was sick. Dalton? Are you okay? Yes? Oh, yes I was surprised to hear to suddenly hear that name. You mean Lucian? Hup When Ariel said the name once more, Dalton hupped again. Is it really that surprising? Ariel mumbled in her head. Come to think of it, Susan saidst time that Lucian hates being called by his name. Is it becauseLuci, I mean the Great Lord, told you not to call him by this name? Dalton, who wiped the sweat off his forehead with a handkerchief nodded. Yes. No one is allowed to call him by name except you. Dalton trembled as if he had thought of something he didnt want to think about. In the mansion, the Great Lordsst name is like a taboo word. He said nobody is allowed to call him by name. However, Ariel received an order directly from Lucian, so that seemed to not apply to her. Ariel asked the question she originally wanted to ask. In fact, she was actually most curious about whether there was a vacation in the academy, but she was interested in the academy itself as well. Anyway, my husbandcan you tell me about the ce he went to? You mean the Johannes Academy? Dalton organized the information in his mind about Johannes, thergest and the only academy for nobles in the empire. Johannes is an academy attended by royalty and aristocratic children aged 14 to 18. Its a very necessary course for aristocrats. His Majesty the Crown Prince is also attending. Um, is there any school for girls? Theres been discussion about it for decades, but I dont think theres one yet. Women in the empire were only allowed to engage in social activities. So instead of going to the academy and being educated, the girls only learned basic things from tutors. Miller, who became a doctor by studying on her own, was a very special case for a woman. Dalton exined what is taught at the Academy. Johannes teaches a wide range of swordsmanship, social skills, and art. Among them, the Great Lord entered the school for swordsmanship. Swordsmanship? Yes. The Great Lord has already been a Sword Master ever since he was nine. He was the youngest person in the Empire to be one. Ariels mouth opened a little. The youngest Sword Master. Ariel had heard of the Sword Masters when she lived with a group of wizards. Unlike wizards who were born with mana, Sword Masters are said to gather mana in their swords. Lucian is amazing. Yes, the Grand Duke of La Carte has produced Sword Masters from generation to generation, but he was especially fast to be one. After that, Dalton exined many things. Ariel hesitated and finally asked for a direct answer. Lucian said he will return only after a year. Does that mean he really wonte until then? Dalton made a puzzled look for a moment then he burst intoughter. Are you sad that the Great Lord is not here? Ariel was puzzled by Daltons question. Ah. I think thats a given because shes his wife. The only people in this house who wish he were at home would be Sir Allen and the Little Lady. Why? Is Lucian being treated poorly at home? The Great Lord is as much as, no, maybe even more scary to us than the Grand Duke himself. Why? Youve seen the extension of the mansion with Sir Allen, havent you? Yes, I did. The Great Lord is the one who made that extension. He often destroyed the mansion, so he had to rebuild it. His specialty and hobby is destruction. My husbands specialty and hobby is destruction Ariel felt as if she had somehow discovered a huge fact. In addition, the men of the La Carte family have a peculiar intimidating aura, so it is difficult for people inferior to them to even face them. Ah, I know that. Ariel sensed it before. The overwhelming intimidating aura that she had felt when she met the ck-haired man in the past. She also felt it from Lucian when they went to see her father, the marquis. Thats why everyone thought theyre seeing some kind of illusion when the Great Lord expressed affection for the Young Lady before he left. Ariels face turned red. It was because she remembered the forehead kiss at that time. For a moment, we thought the Great Lord looks like a demon- No, no, theyre the same thing already, who turned into an angel. Why is Lucian a demon in Daltons head. Dalton spoke with a little excitement. Weve never seen such a sight before. Not only is Lucian married, but Lucian also kissed the Little Lady. The Lucian! Dalton, you said Lucian three times already. Is he going to be fine saying his name? Ariel didnt know how people would react to Lucians usual behavior. Then Dalton asked with great enthusiasm. Any more questions? Ah, I have! Ariel asked about the noisy nobles and her painting. I heard theres a lot of gossip about me. What is it? Daltons expression became serious. Did the Grand Duke told you? Yes. When Ariel answered, Dalton became a little relieved. The girl in front of her certainly looked so young and innocent. But the fact that his master, the Grand Duke, spoke to this girl about something external Maybe it means that he believes in the Young Lady. If the owner judged it that way, Dalton had no disagreement. Chapter 20 He faced Ariel with a serious expression. Do you really want to know what happened, my Lady? Yes, its about me after all. Ill tell you. Dalton began to exin the impact of Lucians rumors little by little. Of course, the part that Lucian was actually the one who ordered to spread the rumors was neatly filtered out. The first ones that surfaced were the old rumors about the Little Lady. If its the old rumors. He probably meant about the rumor that Ariel is sick or that the Marquis does not show her because of her ugly appearance. However, when the people witnessed all of the Ladys expensive belongings being sent away by carriage by the Marquis himself, they began to spread that you are probably loved by the marquis. Ah. The rumor has been constantly on the rise. The rumor says that Ariel was actually a beautiful child that everyone could easily fall in love with, thats why she was raised secretly since she was young to not exposed her to the outside world. Moreover, Dalton, the treasurer of the Grand Duke of La Carte, was the one who secretly worked on the n to spread it, thats why the rumors easily spread like wildfire. As the empires most powerful and wealthiest family, it was only natural that the attention surrounding the marriage of Lucian, the heir to the Grand Duke, was gaining huge attention. Among them, Ariel, whose face is unknown, is the main character of the rumors. The fact that the Marquis of Lucillion kept silent about the Ladys engagement contributed to the swelling of the rumor as well. In fact, thetter kept quiet because of Lucians threats. In the meantime, the societys interest sored up even more when it became known that the wedding gift was a sapphire mine in Hilton. Dalton paused for a minute and then continued. Thats why the people became curious about the identity of the Lady who became so precious to the Lord. Ariel got a little lost in though.t Thats why my paintings be so expensive? Because of peoples curiosity? Dalton shook his head. At this point in time, that could be a factor. But thats not the only reason. Raising the price of goods is only a piece of cake for the Grand Duke. How? The Grand Duke can increase the price by monopolizing resources with his power, and sometimes the Grand Duke directly invests and raises the worth of an object. People are attracted like ants to investment with money and power. Ariel still didnt know how her painting became worth 50 million, but she understood the principles. I understand now. Thank you, Dalton. Ariel left Daltons room with a lighter heart. She ate the snacks given by him one by one as she crossed the hall on her way back. On the way, she passed by the maid Sally and Anna who smiled and greeted her. Hello, Little Lady. Oh my, your ribbon is hanging loosely. Ai. How cute. The people of the mansion have spoken to Ariel like this ever since she got formally introduced recently. Before, when she went around with Allen, they only bowed their heads and said hello. Ariel was shy but also happy for getting attention, so she would smile at them. Ariel was currently passing by the windows when the quiet gardener, Woods, who was trimming the ornamental nts in the garden, gave her something. It was a branch of a tree bearing a dainty red fruit. The round and small red fruits were all over the ce, and the branch was well-kept without thorns. Woods? Ariel called with a puzzled expression when she received the branch, but Woods only pressed his hat down and hurried away from the window. She decided to show Susan the branch, and she smiled warmly at her. Did Woods gave it to you? Yes, but he didnt tell me what is it. Susan fixed the ribbon on Ariels hair, which was almost untangled, Its a winterberry branch. Is it edible? No, its for ornamental purposes. Isnt it pretty? Yeah. Susan patted Ariel gently on the head. Theres a saying that thedy wholl receive the first winterberry branch in February will have good luck. Uwaa Ariel looked into the branch filled with pretty red fruits. So Woods gave me this for good luck! You think so, right? Ariel carefully inserted the branch into a vase and jumped out of the chair. Ill go to Woods and say thank you! Susan shouted behind Ariel as she ran out. Dont run! Youll fall! Ariel saw Woods trimming a tree quite far from the window earlier. She opened the window with a frown and frantically waved at Woods. Woods slowly pulled back the brim of his hat and looked at her. Thank you for the good luck, Woods! Ariel shouted with all her might. She was worried that her voice wouldnt reach him, but Woods bowed his head in acknowledgment. Ariel smiled brightly. As if the good luck has taken effect already, her empty heart started getting filled with warmth. That night, Ariel came back to her room after taking a bath and drank the hot milk sprinkled with the powdered sugar that Susan handed over to her. Its sweet. Its delicious. Hoo-hoo. Sweet things are the best to children your age. Actually, Im already seventeen It seems that her tastes and preferences also adjusted into her body which is a child right now. Also, the fact that she had never tasted anything good in her past life contributed to Ariels love of sweetness. She was barely living with burnt oat porridge while she was at the Marquis, but after joining the group of wizards, her body got damaged so she could not eat well. The only thing she could eat was soup. Thats why everything that she has been given right now, when she started living here in the Grand Dukes was the first delicious food she had ever tasted before. Susan dried Ariels wet hair with a fluffy, thick towel that made her feel warm. Susans voice, which seemed to be singing, tickled her ears affectionately. Your hair color is so pretty. Every single thing about you is beautiful. Ariel, who was sipping and drinking milk, listened to it and clenched the cup with her small hands. She had been gettingpliments from the people in this house these days, and it tickles her heart every time I hear it, but She wasnt happy this time. UmSusan. Yes. I really like Susan, so whatever you say wont hurt my feelings. My Lady.? Susan, who was drying her hair, stopped moving. Ariel added hurriedly. A-and I know Susan likes me. I didnt believe it at first, but now I do. Thats why, I.want to believe everything Susan says. Lady Ariel. Susan called out to Ariel in a low voice. Ariel was not confident to turn around and face Susan. She has no idea what kind of facial expression shes showing right now. But I had to say it. Ariel closed her eyes tightly. The voice that came out trembled. I know my hair color is unusual and strange. My face looks ugly, too. I know that, butSusan, Sally and Becky all of you look at me saying Im pretty. I dont like it when people I like lies to me. Susan sighed behind her. She managed to pluck up her courage to say what she wanted but the sigh scared her. Itll be bad if Susan got disappointed in me, right? Susan gently turned Ariel around. Ariel bowed her head, unable to make eye contact with her. Susan pulled the little girls shoulders into her arms. Ariel hesitated but she put her arms around her as well. Young Lady. Who told you that you looked ugly? Ariel mumbled, burrowing into Susans arms like a baby in her mothers arms. father. And my brother. Susan sighed again. Thats why you thought it was weird whenever other people told you you were pretty or cute? Eung. How does Susan know my mind so well? When Susan understood her feelings, Ariel began to stammer out what she had been holding back. At first I thought you were just saying that because Im thedy of this house. It made me feel sad. She choked up while talking. But Susan is such a good person Youre generous and very nice to me. Thats why I know that Susan is not trying to deceive me on purpose, but you see me like that because the eyes of your heart are beautiful No matter how much she thought so, the heaviness in her heart did not disappear. But everybody else besides Susan calls me pretty when they see me. That cant be true. Everyones so weird. Its so strange. Tears dripped down from Ariels eyes and wet Susans clothes. Im afraid I couldnt believe in what Susan says. I see Susan patted Ariel on the back. Ariel sobbed and wept as she burst into her tears. Susan kept sweeping her back the whole time Ariel cried. Ariels tears slowly died down due to Susans regr patting. Susan slowly began to talk. You know? I was actually surprised to hear that Lucian was getting married to the Little Lady. BecauseI look like this? No. Susan brushed Ariels forehead that became sweaty from crying. As Ariel raised her head, Susan continued. Look at my eyes. Can you see yourself in them? I can. What does it look like? Ariel described herself as best she could. Red hair The eyes are red too. The skin is as white as ster Alright. Stop. Susan, who gently stopped Ariels words, pointed to the Winter berry branch that Woods gave her earlier. The red berries in the winterberry branch have neatly adorned the vases. Whats the color of that fruit, Lady? Red. Is it pretty? Yes, its very pretty. Susan smiled at the honest answer. Your hair color is more beautiful than the color of those fruits. Its scarlet red. Scarlet red? Yes, its the name of the most beautiful shade of red. Chapter 21 Scarlet red? Ariel whispered nkly. And the Ladys eyes are like rubies. They look like pretty pieces of jewelry. Ive never heard of such a thing before. Susan lifted Ariels slender arms and pulled up her sleeve a little. Look at your skin. Its fair, soft, and moist. The more you grow, the more beautiful and fairer you will be, Susan gently kissed Ariel on the inside of her arm. Your skin is white as snow, I dont think I can even find you when it snows. Ariel stammered in confusion. But.Isnt it weird being this white? Its not strange. There are so many young kids who want to get white skin and find ways! You are very blessed. Blessed.? Susan patted Ariels cheeks. Yes. The littledy is really blessed with beauty. I dont know them, but Im sure that you will be much more beautiful than your father or brother. Both in heart and looks. Ariel asked again as if she had been confirmed. Are you sure Im pretty, Susan? Arent I only pretty in Susans eyes? Susan burst outughing. My Lady, even if you ask anyone else in this world, everyone will definitely say that you have a very lovely appearance. Have you seen the treasurer Dalton or the maids be enamored when they look at you? Susan pretended not to notice, but she knew that the butler, Allen was also the same. It would be bad to tease the old man too much. There are only two people in the world who say that youre not pretty, and you dont know youre pretty because you live with them. IsIs that really so? Susan nodded vigorously to Ariel, who sped her clothes with wet eyes. Im telling you, Little Lady. I swear on my name. Susan took Ariel to the front of the pink full-body mirror. Ariel looked frightened when she saw herself. Look straight ahead. Remember that well from now on. what? Susan looked at Ariels reflection in the mirror. From now on, what youre seeing right now is beautiful. There is no other standard. The Ladys appearance is pretty. From now on, the look I have is pretty Yes, your standards always have to be. That way, even if you dont meet the standards of the world, you still can show your beauty without falling behind it. Ariel approached the mirror. Until now, even if there was a mirror, she didnt look at it often. She didnt want to see herself in the mirror even whenever Susan ties her hair up with pretty ribbons or dressed her up. She felt sad seeing her ugly self in pretty things. But when she listened to Susan and looked in the mirror, she saw her red hair for the first time. She also saw her clear red eyes, that looks like strawberries melted in sugar. Her skin was as pale as snow. Even if people outside criticized her appearance, she thought she could finally say, I like this appearance now. If she had bronze hair like her fathers, not red hair, she wouldnt have met Lucian, Susan, and Mathius. She leaned gently against her reflection in the mirror. Ariel liked herself for the first time. Ariel washed her reddening eyes and went to bed. Susan kissed her then turned off the lights, sat next to her and hummed her a luby like usual. She felt good listening to the luby, so when Ariel opened her eyes, Susan smiled and patted her stomach. Lady, I was surprised by your marriage, not because of you, but because of the Lord. Why? Susan spoke softly. The Lord is young, but he is more determined and sword-like than anyone else. He even told the Grand Duke not too long ago that he would cut off the bloodline of this family. Cut off the bloodline of this family? Yes, it means that he wont get married or have children. But he did. Howe? Susanughed. Im just a maid, so I dont know. But after I saw you, I thought I could understand it now. The reason why he changed his mind. He probably couldnt help it if you were so pretty and lovely. ..Susan, I think Im going to cry again. No. If you cry before you go to bed, your eyes will look like frogs eyes tomorrow. (t/n:like those frogs with horizontal pupils? Probably.) Susan, who said that seriously, carefully covered her with nket. I was so happy when you came. Thats all I need you to know. Ariel nodded instead of answering. Then Susan added merrily. Ill make you the prettiest when you get married properlyter. Your scarlet red hair would go very well with the white wedding dress. But Ariel cant say that her and Lucians wedding was hard just a deal. I dont think Susan will ever see me wear a wedding dress. But thats not whats important to Ariel right now. Susan likes her without looking at her other conditions. Shes calm and warm. Good night, Little Lady. Feeling a faint sound of sweet a sweet luby, Ariel fell asleep. Even though she didnt cry in bedst night, Ariels eyes still became swollen and became like a frogs the next day. Oh, this is embarrassing. During lunch, Mathius rushed into the room. He probably heard it from Allen, the butler, whos currently standing behind Mathius. This is because Susan was busy so she left Allen to prepare Ariels meal. Ariel only wiggled her eyes that she couldnt open well. She was embarrassed because her mouth was full of turkey sandwiches right now so she cant exin everything that happened yesterday. When Ariel didnt answer, Mathius looked all over the room. Lack of toys? She wanted to say no, but the sandwich stopped her. Mathius looked at Ariels cheek, filled with sandwiches, and muttered. A child is also short of toys, said Mathius, turning around. By the time Ariel had swallowed up the turkey sandwich, he had already disappeared in the hallway. In the afternoon, the news that Ariel cried spread throughout the mansion, and people went to Ariels room constantly. Chef Holston prepared Ariels favorite, plum pudding and put it on the pot, and the maids took a pretty silk ribbon and hung it on Ariels window. Even the gardener Woods, who never leave the first floor, came to visit. The quiet Woods installed a strong and pretty wooden swing in Ariels room without saying anything and left after seeing the winterberry branch in a vase. Ariel asked while sitting on a new wooden swing and dragging her feet. Why is everyone doing this, Susan? Whats was the big deal when I only cried once? Susan, who was busy all day today because of the four curtain changes in the winter season, responded with a smile. Everyones just worried about thedy. Children your age usually gets homesick after a month or so away from their parents. But I dont want to see my father and my brother. Its because other people dont know that. And even if they know, they might still be worried that youll have a hard time staying in this house. Ariel was surprised at Susans words. She had never thought of it. How can she hate the La Carte mansion when its filled with such warm, and good people who always takes care of her? Ariel could not suffer from homesickness itself because she had nothing to miss. Rather, if she were to stay here and go somewhere else, shell miss this ce more. Everyone is doing that because theyre hoping that thedy became happy and well adapted to this ce. Of course, this is also the first time I have ever seen the Grand Duke do that. Susan, sweetly exined it to her while she changed the outer curtain of Ariels room into ivory. And mydy also needs to act a little more child-like. If someone gives me something good, dont think things like, why give it to me? Do I deserve it? When Ariel was dumbfounded, Susanughed. If I were a normal kid in a situation like this, Id act a little more childish. Im going to ask for more things that I want and take the opportunity. But I already have everything I need? Ariel can only looked away. However, it was not long before I realized that her thoughts and those around her were different. Allen, the butler, brought out a giant stuffed eagle, which he said to soothe Lucian tears when he was still a baby, and made Ariel y with it. Ariel was amazed to see the eagle for the first time and looked at its shiny feathers and orange beak. This soothed the baby Lucian that he stopped crying? Ariel thought it was very fun to be able to recall Lucian from my childhood. The treasurer Dalton provided a high quality picture book with beautiful illustrations. Ariel excitedly put the books neatly on the empty bookshelf. And Mathius. Within a few hours of Mathius departure, a stream of big toys began to enter Ariels room. Uwaa. Even Ariel, who wasnt interested in toys for children because she had already lived until the age of 17, was surprised. I think these are more like a work of art than toys. The toys that Mathius gave her were a big doll house and an ark-shaped toy. The ark-shaped toy was amazing. It was a wooden toy made by carefully painting the grain of wood red one by one, then sanding it softly. It was possible to assemble it by matching the rooms in the ship. The surprising thing was that no matter how the rooms werebined, the final shape would be a pear shape. Arge ship, a two-story tower, and afortable ark. And it was finished with resin that made it look like it actually floats on water. The dollhouse was all the more impressive. The dolls house seemed to be a miniature of the La Carte mansion. It was very colorful and sophisticated. The furniture and the structure inside the house were almost the same. Chapter 22 The only difference is that the blue bricks on the roof of the Grand Dukes Mansion are sapphires in the dollhouse and there are real diamonds embedded on the top of the Ice Star Tower. When the mansion was split in half and opened, she saw wooden dolls sitting, standing, or lying down inside. Ariel smiled broadly at the little red-haired girl doll among them. Thats me! When she saw a boy doll with ck hair, she blushed slightly. Lucian. Ariel, who put the two dolls together nicely, felt better. It seemed that I could create a hundred stories just by looking into the pretty dollhouse. After all this looks exactly like the La Cartes mansion. Ariel hugged arge doll house about two-thirds of her height. If I had this, I would be able to keep remembering this ce even if I divorced and left this mansion someday. Ariel looked at the gifts for a while. It was great enough even for adults to have. Both toys had the name of the craftsman written in cursive. Did you like it? Mathius, who was staring at Ariel looking at the toys, asked. Only then did Ariele to her senses and ran to Mathius. She hesitated for a moment, but then, she hugged Mathius leg. Yes. I like it so much. Thank you, Sir Mathius. Ariel was so short and Mathius was so big that Ariel couldnt even fully hug him because she was only less than half his size. Mathius made a distorted face that seems like he was very eager to stroke her head. This is not all. What?! When Ariels eyes widened in surprise, Mathius narrowed his eyebrows and smiled coolly. Look out the window. Ariel ran and opened the window. In the garden, there were bright outing carriages and white ponies for a young girl. Sir Mathius! Thats-. Its yours. You can y with it when the springes. .. Ariel looked at him because she didnt know what to do. I liked it but its a bit scary. Are they really for me? Mathius looked down at Ariel calmly and coolly. Nothing is too good for you. Arie. And he looked at the y area that still had a lot of space left. By the way, An told me that you yed with the stuffed eagle. How many stuffed animals do you want? Ariel jumped up and down. The stuffed animals were amazing, but they were also a little scary. No, thats its still Then Ill give you some full-sized dolls. Such arge deer, jaguar, rabbit and sheep stuffed animals were erected on one side of the room. They were luxurious dolls that looked just like real animals and had the same glossy furs. Theres too many. Ariels mind went nk because of the gifts she received all day today. Still, she was tickled by the fact that everyone cared about her. Mathius, who was about to leave the room by saying see youter in the evening, looked back. He felt a subtle lingering feeling inside him. How many ss greenhouses do you want? No. I really think all of these is enough now, Grand Duke. Oveing the trauma of her own appearance, Ariel diligently wandered around and tried to get close to the people in the mansion. Its nice to hear the sound of the heavy hand of the clock, ticking. She sat in front of arge clock in the middle hall and listen to the sound of seconds passing by. Ah, the jewel in the eye of the lion statue looks different. The stone fountains on each floor were found to have different shapes. One day, she was yed with a deer stuffed-toy in the hallway and fell asleep on the deers back. Hhmm.? When she woke up, she was puzzled because people were gathered around her and watching, her holding their breath. Getting to know the people in the mansion and making herself feel at home was a new experience for Ariel. It was only natural for Ariel who had never had a home before. The House of Marquis Lucilion, where she was born and raised, was like a nightmare, and the residence of the sorcerers where she got sold was only the ce where she vomited blood every day. But the grand dukes mansion was different. For the first time, Ariel learned what home meant. The smell of the sun from a freshly pulled nket. The feathered pillows that the maids beat with a bat to make it fluffy. The canopy that melts in her sight at sleep. The soft fur rug that embraces her even if she stumbles and falls, and Susans kiss whenever she had a bad dream. Ariel put them in the word home step by step. Ariel didnt know but with the people of the Grand Duke who treated her with kindness and affection, she didnt even have to try to win favor. The mansion had been quietly turned upside down since the Grand Duke Mathius, who had been eating his dinner alone for more than 15 years, asked Ariels seat at the dinner table. Since most servants have worked here for more than 10 years, the ripple effect was even greater. The Grand Duke is having dinner with his daughter-inw, the youngdy! Oh, my God! The La Carte was a mansion of an old family, and it was really old. Thats why it was normal that its dark, quiet, and the atmosphere was also thick. The family had so many secrets that most of the servants working in the mansion were quiet and heavy-mouthed. But after Ariel came in, something started happening that made even such servants scream in surprise. What kind of wind did blew to make Grand Duke eat with thedy at the same table? Im not sure if shell be able to eat her meal properly at this point. Just seeing the Grand Dukes shadow is already making me choke. The servants, who were well aware of the dark aura of the male members of the La Carte family, were heartbroken by the scary dinner table that the youngdy had to go through. But The new youngdy! She had a meal in front of the Grand Duke without any problem. But thats not the most surprising part for the servants. The maid said that the Grand Duke even ordered to prepare a meal thatll be suitable for thedys diet. No one believed this part. That cant be true. Master Mathius is such a scary and cold-hearted man. Thats right. Of course he will tell them to prepare it separately. But soon it was revealed that Mathius had dinner with Ariel every day and did notin about Ariels diet, which left the mansion in a big shock. In the morning, the employees were busy holding their breath and watching when the Grand Duke passed by with the butler. Then they gathered in the kitchen in eagerly sang praises. Hey, isnt she as different as the sky and the earth from Lucian? Even the atmosphere. Thats right. She seems like a really sweet and cute girl! They couldnt believe such a cute presence was next to their young master, who was nothing short of a devil. Did you hear that, the story? The fact that the young master fell in love with her at first sight and proposed to her. I also saw the Young Master running to kiss the youngdy. I thought the world wasing to an end! She is not afraid to marry a man of La Carte, who is notorious for his blood, contribution in the war and their madness, and is even recognized as a family. Ariel was a great being who made the world of heaven and earth to the servants who have seen the Grand Duke Mathius and Lucian La Carte for a long time. Not only that, Ariels appearance was enough to put everyone in a honey pot. Lovely scarlet red hair that warmed peoples hearts, and white and transparent face like snow aroused a protective instinct to anyone. Her dainty nose, fluffy cheeks, and pink lips were also cute. Because of her height and body, which is far smaller than her peers, her appearance also yed a part in her cuteness. Within a few days, everyone began to convince themselves that the cause of the warm breeze blowing over the icy La Carte mansion was her. If youre such a cute person, its doesnt mean that you dont understand Things that Ariel didnt know were being done in the mansion. A few dayster. It was the day of the party of the Duchess of Beatrice, the flower of the high society. Thedies who attended the meeting were exchanging the same story as if they had been wanting to talk about it. They were all whispering in a low voice like little girls. Have you heard the rumors? Its about the painting by Young Lady of the Marquis of Lucill- I mean the Grand Duchess of La Carte. Yes. I heard that they are going to bring it to the imperial charity banquet tomorrow. What kind of painting is it? Ady covered her mouth with her hands and said in secret. I heard from an acquaintance of my inws friends cousin.that the Young Lord is very well educated. Then the painting must be excellent. I heard that the the Grand Duke made her his daughter-inw because he like her. Oh, Im really curious. Their voice was low and whispered, but the eyes of the nobledies talking were glistening with unbearable curiosity. These days, exaggerated rumors about Ariel have overflowed in the high society. Among them, bad stories about her were still buried under the water. But the rumors of Ariels strange red hair that looks different from the bronze color of the Marquis Lucilion, and the rumors that she may not be the Marquis real daughter, did not attract peoples attention. They are more madly curious about the girl whos liked the Grand Duke of La Carte and the girl the youngest swordmaster fell in love at first sight with. Im sure shes a great girl. It was obvious that shes liked by the La Carte. They offered the sapphire mine as an engagement gift, and she got married as soon as she turns 10 years old as if they were worried that she would be taken away! In the heads of the nobles, Ariel became someone who has boundless of greatness. Of course, none of them actually met Ariel. Over time, the day of the charity banquet hosted by the imperial family came. Chapter 23 The banquet was more crowded than ever. Even the weakdies decided to attend under the aid of their maids. Over time, everyones interest in Ariel grew and was at its peak. Count Caterbell, who was in charge of the donation for the banquet, picked up an envelope bearing the La Cartes crest. This is an item presented by the Grand Duke of La Carte. First, a painting with the handwritten signature of the Grand Duchess*. Next (t/n: it is stated before that since the position of the Grand Duchess is vacant, Ariel, being the onlydy of the house automatically became the new one?) The Count choked up as he tried to read the letters. H-he put out a blue diamond ne called the Sirens tear..! Gasp! The inside of the hall became quiet in an instant. Everyone stopped after making a choking sound. The sirens tear The blue diamond, the rarest kind of diamond, is a huge thing! The Sirens tear is a ne that was so expensive that it couldnt be bought even if they add all the prices of the items presented by the nobles in the banquet. There were also nobles who wanted to try it even once in their lifetime. People were surprised by the Grand Dukes wealth of throwing these precious things casually at the charity banquet, but they should be shocked at something else. Wait a minute. Theorder? When presenting such items, it was a principle to state the more precious one first and the less valuable one following it. But there was something else in the order before the Sirens tear. Its a painting of the Grand Duchess. Does this mean that the p-painting is worth more than the blue diamond?! The nobles all gazed in astonishment at the painting in cloth. Count Caterbell lowered the cloth with trembling hands. Those who gathered in the hall greeted the painting with their eyes squinted with light. Ooh.!! It was the biggest exchange of charity money in the history of the Empire. The aristocrats started bidding and raising its price as if they were hypnotized by it. 10 million denals! 15 million denals! I cant lose. 15.5 million denals! It was just amon [Figure 1] for Ariel, but now the curiosity about her has reached its highest level. Moreover, it lookedpletely different from those who believed the painting was worth more than a blue diamond. Whatever the painting was, the value of the painting was more than diamond, as long as the Grand Duke dered it more valuable than a blue diamond. The nobles set aside the blue diamond ne and began to heat up Ariels painting. Ill buy that. My Count will double it. No, I will! The emperor, who was present,ughed at the amusing reaction of the people on the Grand Duke. The one who has paid the most for charity will take it. On that day, the one who won the bid paid exactly 50 million denals and took the painting. Even after the painting disappeared from view, the people did not stop talking about it. Ah, the painting seemed to want peace in the world. Oh, my. I felt the same way. Then the theme of that painting must be world peace! Ariel would have been very surprised if she heard this series of thoughts. Because her intentions were not as profound. Later, the painting became worth 70 million denals after going through the hands of two noble families. Then a monthter, when Mathius bought the painting again and returned it to Ariel, it was with a certificate of 80 million denals. The intention of the painting was simple. This was the name given by the original author, Ariel, to the painting, which was praised for resembling world peace. Susans sweetness. On top of the whitece table mats, a dazzling porcin tray wasid gently. The tray had freshly baked pancakes and syrup pots, dishes topped with small pieces of butter, neatly arranged tes. Yum. Ariel quickly put the pancake with golden syrup in her small mouth so that it wouldnt drip. Ah, its soft. She feels stuffed after waking up in the morning and eating a lot of pancakes with sweet maple syrup and butter. Im going to meet Allen. Ariel loved spending time with the old butler Allen. It was pleasant to walk slowly with Allen, who always has a little bit of free time in thete morning. No one knew as much about this house and the people here more than Allen. Ariel was learning the things she needed to know about the La Carte family one step at a time. Allen. When did the La Carte family get founded? Yes, about that, mdy. A somewhat proud expression always blooms on Allens face whenever she asks such a question. So Ariel thought he was a little cute even though he was an old grandfather. The La Carte family has existed even before the establishment of this empire. It has a long history. Only direct descendants of the family can know when it originated, so I dont know in detail. That means, its that long.!? How did they manage to keep their familys blood alive even when its so old? What everyone needs doesnt disappear. The La Cartes have traditionally held onto their position as the empires guardians. Guardians? When Ariel asked with her eyes, Allen continued his exnation. The north upies arge part of the entire territory of the empire, but it is not green enough for people to live. There was a huge mountain range in the north of the empire. The vastnd in the north that followed this mountain range belonged to the La Carte family for a long time. And in the ancient forests and rugged rocky mountains forming the northern mountains, the beast appeared frequently This was the reason why people could not easily ess the mountain range even though there were many valuable mines. The La Carte family defended the empire from the beast by owning this barrennd, which allowed the empire to build a mine and revived it with the minerals that came out of it and made it to the present day. Uwaa, what apletely meritorious family. Ariel pondered and asked again. Then can the royal family leave the guardians position to another family? The higher the name of La Carte, the more troubled the royal family will be, right? Allens eyes widened a little. I cant believe such a young girl can think of such a thing Youre so clever, Then he continued politely. But there is no one who can substitute for the La Carte. If you leave your northern enemy to another family, theyll all be wiped out. Then. Yes. The men who carry the blood of La Carte are stronger than normal. One person does 1,000 or 10,000 per day. Even when defeating the monsters, only the Blue Lion Knights are taken. From the perspective of the emperor, La Carte was an objectionable entity, but without a guardian, he had no choice but to admit that his countrys existence itself was in danger. The present emperor also chose to keep the La Carte under the imperial family, recognizing his contribution. La Carte is a pro-Emperor and maintains neutrality. He was awarded the honor of the Grand Duke in exchange for maintaining neutrality without threatening the Imperial Family. The Grand Dukes family was the only aristocrat to have family autonomy. The Grand Duke is like a king of a small country because it is equivalent to the kingdoms that belong to the Empire. What kind of family autonomy is it? The right to keep family secrets, and the right to keep the imperial family from interfering in their own family affairs. Ariel was in awe. She knew in the past that the La Carte family was great, but it was even more amazing to know it properly. The presence of the Grand Duke in the Empire was greater than I imagined. Hey, Allen. Yes, Mdy. Whats the secret of the family? When Ariel asked, Allens face suddenly hardened. Ariel quickly added a word. Im sorry, it was a difficult question. She is currently a member of the Grand Dukes family right now but shes also in a position to divorce Lucian and leave this ce once she bes an adult. So it was presumptuous to ask for a secret that even the imperial family couldnt dig out. I didnt want to embarrass Mathius or Lucian after learning the secret. Ariel spoke clearly and calmly. Its better if you dont tell me, Allen. Im going to get going. Thank you again today. Yes. Take a look and go back. Mdy. Ariel, who said goodbye with Allen, returned to her room. She wasnt very curious about the secrets of the La Carte family. Ariel herself has a big secret ofing back from the future. It would be strange if there were no secrets from such an old family. And La Carte was a family notorious for madness. If thats whats revealed, whats hidden will surely be worst. There are a ton of things to be hidden from the time of the ancestors. Haaaaam Im sleepy after walking too much. Ariel fell t on her nap bed and leaned her head in a fluffy, round pink cushion. The little girl quickly sank into the dreand. Its been two months since Ariel entered the mansion. And something she was worried about had happened. Ariel sighed slightly. With a small sigh, Ariels red hair fluttered like a ribbon. Im lost. Today, she was on the way back from the balcony at the end of the East Building that she went with Allen. At the end of the building, there was a room where the former imperial princess stayed as a guest, and there was a marble birdbath on the balcony connected to the room. When Ariel, who is not familiar with luxury goods, asks about the concave and elegant stonework with water, Allen politely exined it. The princess who stayed here liked the birds, so there is a birdbath where she can feed the birds or y with the water while they drink water. Wow. Will we be able to see birds bathing water here in the spring? Ariel blushed with anticipation. Then she dipped my finger in the water and quickly pulled it out because it was cold. An innocent smile filled her cheeks. The old butler Allen saw the appearance and felt an emotion poked in his heart. He was working hard to crack down on the frivolous words and actions of the other servants in the mansion who said that he was cute when hes with thedy Really, the youngdy was so lovely. Its as if they turned a sweet colored ruby into a human. It was the first time he was loyal to anyone other than his masters, Mathius and Lucian. On her way back from looking around the princess room, which is preserved in its original form. Ariel decided to go back alone in consideration of the busy Allen. The East Wing has been renovated after a long time, so Ill take you there, madam. No. I almost memorized my way now. I want to practice by myself. Ariel, who had gone on her way alone, could not return to her room in the South Hall and was circling around a strange ce. Chapter 24 Oh no Ive been in this same ce for a couple of times now. It was then. Ah, it hurts! Be quiet. You bastard! If you did it right, you wouldnt get hit! Ariel heard people talking. ? She started following the sound. She thought that luck was probably on her side since she found people in the mansion. Ill ask them the way back. Ariel stood in front of the door where she heard the voices, and knocked, just as Susan always did. But there were only louder noisesing from inside. ..Cant they hear the knock? Ariel, who was worried for a while, pushed the door gently. Inside the door was a middle-aged man wearing a white robe and a boy around Ariels age, arguing. And .! Shockingly, all the furniture in the room was floating in the air. She was surprised for a moment, but Ariel quickly recovered. Its magic Although she looks like a young girl right now, she was also a wizard in the past. A high-ss wizard who uses offensive magic at that. Thats why shes not that surprised seeing another person using magic. But when the two people in the room spotted Ariel, they immediately stopped and froze. The floating furniture slowly sank to the ground. W-who are you?! The little boy shouted a beatte. Ariel greeted the two like a properdy of the house. Hello, Im Ariel. Im married to the Young Lord, Lucian. What?! Married?! As soon as he asked that question in a stupefied voice, a loud sound of something being hit was heard and the boys head fell forward. You scoundrel! Show some respect to the Grand Duchess! Ah! Grandpa! The boy grabbed his head and stomped his feet. He seemed like hes quite in pain. The old man greets Ariel. Hello, Grand Duchess. Im Bruno, the wizard of this house. And this brat. He shifted his eyes at the boy next to him with a quite different way he looked towards Ariel. This is Heath, my pathetic grandchild, and assistant. (t/n: its spelled as (Hiseu) but tranted as Heath in English.) The man who introduced himself as Bruno, asked Ariel carefully. Arent you surprised about what you saw just now? I was a little surprised. Ariel, who frankly admitted, spoke in a matured voice. But Id be more surprised if I didnt hear it from Mr. Allen in advance. Brunos expression softened. youre bold. He smiled. Im d you werent surprised. Can I ask what you were doing? He, who was smiling happily at Ariel, pped his head. Ah! I was teaching him cleaning skills to lift things up so it would be easier when he cleans them up. Ariel tilted her head. The magic of lifting things was quite difficult. The heavier the object is, the more power costs. I think theres a better way to clean up though. Bruno coughed in vain. Of course, Im cleaning with suction magic. So you were just trying to mess with me! Shut up, all this is to educate you! When Ariel saw the grumbling uncle, sheughed out loud. Hearing the girlsughter, the two guys stopped fighting and looked at her. Ariel spoke to Bruno. I heard you were helping with the management of this ce. I also heard that you were once the Archmage of the Imperial Pce. Oh, how embarrassing. Now, Im just a retired Mage who teaches his grandson and works here. Ariel knew that it was all modesty. It was because she also heard a lot of things about the Archmage of the pce from the wizards when she was a sorcerer in the past. The Archmage was one of the most excellent wizards, out of all the other 10,000 wizards. So there were only about one or two people like him born every hundred years. Hahaha, did you hear that? My grandfather is a super-genius wizard. And Im a super genius, too.ouch! The brown-haired boy, who proudly bragged to Ariel with all his might, was hit on his head again. Grandpa! That hurt! I told you to call me a teacher! Dont hit me! Why is a sorcerer like you using force? Why do you always do it every time I talk to this girl?ump! I dont know what Bruno did, but the boys mouth closed on its own. Is that the magic of silence? Bruno turned to Ariel and bowed his head. I apologize for my grandsons rudeness. No, you dont have to. Ariel, who touched his hand with her little hand, realized her original purpose and said. By the way, I was wandering around and got lost, can you help me to find my way back? Of course. Bruno, wearing a white robe, stopped as he tried to summon the map of the mansion. You must be tired to walk back. Do you want me to teleport you? Um, no. Please just show me the way. Okay. Bruno grabbed his grandson Heath by the back of his head and dragged him over. Heath, you punk. Give thedy directions ande back. Your old grandfathers mana is already weak However, contrary to his words, he looked at his grandson in a not-so-weak manner. Be polite. You know what will happen if you dont, right? Ten days in silence. I, I got it! The boy shouted and brusquely told Ariel. Follow me! Please. Ariel greeted Bruno with a smile. Thank you. Nice to meet you, Bruno. Go ahead. Bruno greeted and reached out his hand as if asking for a handshake. Ariel reached out her small hand and held Brunos hand tightly before releasing it. He paused for a moment, it was sudden but not to the point that it felt strange to Ariel. Heath spoke in an annoyed tone. Hurry and follow me!. Please. It wasnt very pleasant to be guided by a boy with a curt attitude on her way back but Ariel hummed. It was one of the tunes Susan often sang to her as a luby. Since Lucian left, she hasnt seen anyone of her age for two months. Ariel felt friendly to Heath a new person close to her current age. Hurry up!.. Please. (t/n: Heath has been talking to her informally but hes adding -yeo at the end of the sentence to make it sound more polite unwillingly lols. Idk how to tl that in English so I just added please or just in ..) Heath strode first and spoke rudely. This is so annoying. Im going to die, anyway My grandfather is senileWhy do I have to do this? Even though hes like that, its undeniable that hes scared of his grandfather. Cute. Arielughed without a sound. Heath, you can just speakfortably. P-pardon? Bruno is the one who helps the house, but you are only Brunos grandson. Im not your master. But I was told that the aristocrats should be treated with respect!pardon. Ariel shook her head gently. Its fine since its me. Heath, who was staring suspiciously at her, lifted his chin. Hmmp! All right. Now were on the same page. I dont like all the aristocrats. Im furious that a genius wizard like me is talking to you. Heath is a wizard, too? Of course. Why else would I train under that monstrous Archmage? Im trying to be a greater wizard. It seems that he got excited when I talked to him and now hes talking a lot. Ariel suddenly felt that Heath also had never met kids of the same age as him in this house. Heath, who had been talking about Brunos abuse for a long time, asked. But you said youre married to the Young Lord. Yeah. How old are you. Im 10. Huh. No way. You dont look like one. .. Ariel was sullen by Heaths reaction. I gained weight and grew a little bit in two months Whenever she loses weight, she deliberately tries to drink a lot of milk and eat snacks to raise it, but Susan always shook her head. I still have a long way to go. Im ten years old. How old is Heath? Heath raised the tips of his mouth. The brown-haired boy with a mischievous smile puffed his chest. Me? This brother is 11 years old! Pfft. Ah. Ariel burst intoughter. Hes young as well. Although Ariel is younger now, she has already lived to seventeen in the past. Unlike Lucian, a 14-year-old boy with a dangerous atmosphere, Heath was just like a normal boy. You, you! Dont look at me with your eyes that says Im cute! Youre younger than me! Heath blushed and screamed, his face turning red. They walked in such a taut manner then until they arrived at the main aisle. Ariel already knows the way to her room at this point. Thank you for apanying me, Heath. Ariel said goodbye and turned around. I wish I could meet Bruno and Heath again, but I didnt know what Mathius would think. Turning around, she heard Heaths voice in her ear. Hey, youre close to the Grand Duke, right? Ariel quickly turned around. How do you know that? She was not sure about that yet either. Huh. Im a wizard even if Im young. I know whats going on in this house. Ah. Whats with that easy-going answer? Heath frowned. The annoyed little boy continued his words. You shouldnt tell your husband that youre close to him. Why? Why? Of course Wait. You didnt know? Ariel was puzzled. What do I dont know? Heath had a serious look on his face. The Grand Duke and the Young Lord are on very bad terms. A little kid like you is about to burst your back and die. Ariel blinked a big eye. Mathius and Lucian have a bad rtionship? Arent they family? Of course, it wasnt strange just by looking at Ariels rtionship with the Marquis. But Ariel was a little confused because she thought Mathius and Lucian had a good rtionship. Seriously, He disheveled his hair. Anyway, I warned you. He said before he walked away at a quick phase. Ariel was left standing there for a while. After a while, she returned to her room. Susan brought her warm milk mixed with muffins and honey with pistachio as a snack. Ariel held her little chin in her hands. I didnt know those two were in a bad rtionshipWhy are they not getting along? Chapter 25 Ariel hesitated to ask Susan or Allen why the rtionship between the two members of the La Carte family was bad. They are both Susan and Allens masters after all. Ariel took a bite of the soft muffin. Delicious. The taste of fragrant and sweet muffins spread through her mouth and her heavy thoughts melted down as well. Ill just ask Lucian or Sir Mathiuster. After organizing her thoughts, Ariel began to concentrate on stirring the honey in milk with a wooden spoon. Bruno, who sent out Heath and Ariel, raised his pale face. He looked at his palm where the red-haired little girl touched. It must be She seemed harmless but he felt a tremendous amount of mana through the childs fair hands. Bruno knew intuitively that Ariel was not an ordinary girl. It was a gut feeling that only he could feel since he became an archmage. Is it because its La Carte? Theres no ordinary person in this family. Come to think of it, if a young girl like her saw a piece of furniture floating around the room, they would have screamed at least. When he thought of the small face that didnt seem very shaken, he came to his conviction that the girl was a wizard. She mustve been exposed to magic phenomena a lot, or at least a few times. Bruno was deeply interested in the new youngdy. Originally, wizards are the type of people who climb the golden tower with a constant desire for exploration. Thats why he lost his position as a pce archmage and is hiding here. Bruno conjured up Ariels sweet and bright eyes. Her eyes were very different from Lucian, the tyrant of this house. But their manas energy is very simr. It was a strange thing. Lucian with Sword Mana and Ariel with Innate Mana cannot have simr mana energy. Bruno arranged his white robe. Ill have to visit the Grand Dukes office in a minute. Ariel sat alone at a long table waiting for the pre-dinner drinks and appetizers. This evenings dinner had to be eaten by Ariel by herself because Mathius is away. The appetizers were egg tart and half a cup of cranberry juice small enough for Ariel. She spoke to Allen with a sullen face, splitting the charred egg tart on the top with a fork. Isnt Sir Mathiusing back today at all? Allen, who was wearing a white cloth on one arm and pouring cranberry juice into Ariels ss, answered. Yes, something happened in the estate, so he has to go to the gate in the afternoon. He will be back the day after tomorrow. Its not a bad thing, is it? If something dangerous happens No, mdy. It happens three or four times a year, so dont worry. Yes. Ariel looked at the long table in front of her. The table was big and long enough for thirty people to sit on. But it didnt look this big when I was eating with Sir Mathius. Ariel drank the acidic cranberry juice and pulled her napkin gently to prevent it from falling off her knees. Ariel talked to Allen to erase the emptiness shes feeling without Mathius. Allen, I have a question. What is it, mdy? Do you know any family that interacts with the La Carte family? Usually, aristocratic families were closely linked to two or three families because of their political orientation or business rtionships. The Marquis of Lucilion, who was Ariels family before marriage, also had that sort of rtionship with Duke Monica and Viscount Beville. Ariel knew this because the Marquis threatened Ariel to remain silent whenever he invited other families over. The Marquis went out with his son Jerome every time a guest visited. So Ariel thought that if there was a family that interacted with the Grand Duke, the wife of Lucian should know. Allen, who heard Ariels question, answered politely. Theres no such family, mdy. What? Theres really none? Yes, if you want to make it, it will happen in the future, but for now, theres none. It was difficult for any family to exist alone. Ariel, who was not familiar with the aristocratic world, knew about that. Why is there no family close to the Grand Duke? Allen looked a little perplexed. He said, dragging his answer slightly. because we dont need to interact. Ariel still couldnt understand and blinked. Allen, who saw it, slowly lowered his eyes. How should I exin it? The fact that the Grand Duke does not interact with other families is like a lion not feeling the need to be friendly with ants. Lion and ants? Yes. He talks to the ant leader sometimes, but theres no other reason tomunicate. Well, I thought Id know a little. So the Grand Duke is a lion, and the other nobles are ants? Allen often describes the Grand Dukes house in this way. Like La Carte is more than just a human being. I dont think its simply because the emblem of the La Carte Family is a blue lion with a fire flower mane that the Duke is called a lion, but By the way, is the leader of the ants talking about the Emperor? Ariel looked faithfully at Allen, who was serving the meal. Sliced winter smoked ham and thick slices of white cheese were ced on Ariels te. Ariel put the tableware down. Allen, can you tell me why the La Carte is a lion, not an ant, just like any other aristocrat? Allens hands twitched for a moment. Ariel could see that she had hit a point. If the ants leader was the Emperor the secret of La Carte could have been greater than she thought. Ariel did not intend to dig up the dark secrets of the house of the Grand Duke, but she wanted at least, to know what she needs to know and what she shouldnt. I dont need to know much about this subject. Still, I thought I would no longer embarrass people around me if I knew what I should not know. Ariel changed the question when Allen was silent despite her rudeness. I heard that the men of the La Carte family can produce some sort of an intimidating aura. Why is that? This time Allen answered politely. Yes, Mdy. Thats a concept that anyone who has learned a sword can know. Have you heard of the thing called the sword mana? No, Ive never heard of it. Mana, by analogy, seemed to be involved in magic. But Ariel had no knowledge of magic theory. Because in the past she only learned practical magic and no one taught her theory. Sword mana is also called sword chi (), and the person who uses it is called the swordmaster. Ah! Ariel knew what a swordmaster is as well Unlike a wizard who is a born mana user, they deal with mana by nature. So the mana that Swordmaster uses is different from the ordinary mana? Yes. So thats what you call Sword mana. Thats right. Allen added some exnation. Swordmasters can attack or defend with their sword mana. They can release mana, which is called momentum. Is the momentum the one responsible for putting people under pressure? Thats right. But So why is it only apparent to the men of La Carte Family? There must be other Sword Masters besides La Cartes. That. Ariel found the answer from Allens hesitating attitude. Aha. thats why La Carte was a lion and not an ant. Allen was amazed. It was by no means simple for such a young child to make an analogy You have great insight. He bowed to Ariel with respect. Yes, mdy. What I can tell you is that the men from the La Carte family are born with Sword mana, even if they dont learn the sword. Its in their blood. Ariels bright expression was relieved with admiration. Uwaa, by natureI see. Is it rare? Yes, no one but La Carte is born with Sword mana. It was very special. Ariel was fully convinced. La Carte had a special bloodline. They are extremely powerful in every way and have Sword Mana that can intimidate and overwhelm others. Thats what makes La Carte different from ordinary people, and thats why La Carte seemed to have more strength than any other human being. Thats why theyre a lion, not an ant. I dont know the details but. .. Allen looked at Ariel whos lost in thought. The youngdy, who he thought was bright and lovely, was surprisingly sharp. He became more fond of serving Ariel. On the other hand, he was afraid that the youngdy would feel bad because he hid some family affairs from her. Just now, she noticed that he was in trouble and said it was okay not to tell the secret, but he was strictly hiding the familys affairs from the youngdy. As a butler, he felt guilty. Allen carefully opened his mouth to Ariel. If you feel ufortable with something Im hiding,. Ariels eyes widened. No, Im not offended. I understand that Mr. Allen is very loyal to the Grand Duke. Then Ariel added. Im rather relieved. That just means that Mr. Allen is going to keep everything about me so thoroughly out there. Youre very trustworthy and Im grateful for you, Mr. Allen. Ariel grinned. If I need to know something, Lucian or Sir Mathius will let me know. I dont think I should know it if I dont need to. So its really okay. . Allen felt a surge of emotion. Otherdies were often offended or afraid of knowing that theres something hidden from them. He had been working for the Grand Duke for a long time, and he had met severaldies of the house before Ariel. Although there was not a long history of the Ladies in La Carte. This is not to say that the previous hostesss reaction was bad. Of course, as a hostess, its not fair that you dont know something. However, it was also true that Ariel, who showed such a reaction at an early age, looked great. Chapter 26 You have a desire to learn and understand the family, but you respect it. Allen prayed in his heart that this sweet, bright youngdy would be with him in this house for a long time. White snow fluttered against the cloudy sky. On the path of white snow, an elegant carriage slowly ran with a faint light. In the swirling snowstorm, the traces of Grand Duke La Carte was seen and disappeared. The carriage bearing the emblem of the Grand Duke soon stopped at the entrance to the magnificent mansion. How have you been, my lord? Everyone in the house went out to greet Mathius, who had been to the territory. Outside, there was heavy snow inte winter, so white snow fell on Mathius shoulders as soon as he went out of the carriage. Ariel did not go out to the door but as a hostess, she stood inside the front door and greeted Mathius. Mathius, who was shaking his shoulders anding in without acknowledging the servants greetings, stopped when he saw Ariel. Arie. Ariel gently lifted the hem of her skirt to greet him. Wee back, Sir Mathius. Mathius signaled his hand to Dalton who was following him. Dalton quickly reached out the box he was holding to him. Its a gift. Mathius held out a beautifully packed box to Ariel. Ariels heart throbbed for a moment. Ive read this from a book. Ariel was reading a picture book given by Dalton as a gift these days. There were many children her age in the book, who waited for gifts when their father went out and came back. There were even times when they begged their father to bring them a present before they left. Ariel thought it would never happen to her all her life. The only thing she could expect most from her biological father, the Marquis, was indifference. She would rather have him not pay attention to her than to be hit or cursed. When Ariel lived at the Marquis, she was relieved when her father was out, and when it was time to return, she would be terrified. Ive never felt the excitement of waiting for my father to return like the children in the book. Ariel was a little curious about how it feels like to be a daughter waiting for her father. Ariel, who received the gift box from Mathius, blushed and curled her toes. I thinkI know a little bit about how it feels now. Although they are father and daughter bound byw, she thought it was ridiculous to ask for a gift because he was just her husbands father, not her real father. Besides, she didnt want to have anything anymore because she already received many gifts right after she came to the Grand Dukes estate. But.. Ariel sped the gift box with her hands. She was very happy with the present Mathius brought back for her. Its a sign that he remembered Ariel while he was out. Ariel trembled at the unfamiliar feeling. A feeling that she was also a part of a family. So this is how it feels. To feel empty without them, to remember each other even they are apart, and to feel happy when they return safely. Ariel realized. The reason why the children in the book run to the door and cling to the father with so much joy when the fatheres back. Its not just about gifts. It was nothing more than an element of joy. The real gift is that their father returned safely to their family without any problems. Ariel could finally understand the relief and joy. Ariel said, Wait a minute, and gestured to Mathius to lower his head. Mathius lowered his height by bending down without asking why. Ariel put down the gift box and expressed her gratitude. Thank you, Sir Mathius. When the man with long ck-haired with a solemn atmosphere smiled, everything suddenly felt bright. *chu* Mathius, who was kissed by a little girl, smiled slowly. Hmm. He tapped Ariel on the cheek and spoke. I should buy more gifts. Ariels eyes widened. Why did hee to such a conclusion? She shook quickly. Mathius tilted his head back. Or perhaps, I should leave home often. Ariel shouted unknowingly. I-I dont like that! Mathius grinned. Ariels cheeks, whose true intentions were revealed, were red. Mathius picked up the gift box on the floor and gave it back to Ariel. Children should like gifts more than adults. Now, go to your room and open it. Ariel came back to the room with a present in her arms. Susan, who followed, asked. Oh my, I guess the Grand Duke bought you a present, didnt he? Yes. Ive been waiting to see this all this happen in my life. Susan said with a happy smile. Then Ariel became puzzled. Has Sir Mathius never given his son, Lucian a gift? Go ahead and open it. She unwrapped carefully and opened the lid of the box. What could it be? When she took off anotheryer of thin pink paper wrapped in the lid, a small object fell to Ariels palm. It was a splendid castle-shaped ornament carved with dazzling white stone. Pretty. And it looks very expensive. How much is this kind of stuff? How much did Sir Mathius spend to buy it? Ariel, who recently learned the concept of money, was deeply troubled. Amoner family usually uses around 30 denals to live for a month. A year costs 100 denals, and a day is 50 mino Susan, who was watching from a little distance, said kindly. Its a white castle-shaped orgel*. (t/n: orgel means music box in German or Dutch.) Orgel? Ariel, who saw the orgel for the first time, asked again. Yes, these are borate objects that artisans can only make two or three a year. Theyre probably custom-made. So he didnt buy it, he ordered it. Then it must have been more expensive. Ariel looked closely at the ornaments. There was a delicate key-shaped spring with jewels on the back of the castle decoration. This is how you y with it. Susan came up and returned the spring a couple of times. As the spring blew, the small castle began to spin round and round, making a brilliant sound of music. Waaah! Ariel was so surprised and happy that she was so happy. I hear a pretty sound. She tried to wind the spring herself. A beautiful tune filled the room with sweetness. Ariel leaned his arm against the music box and closed her eyes. Im happy. The tip of my little lip surged up. It was the afternoon a few dayster. As if the winter was about to go, the sunlighting through the big window of the mansion was warm. Ariel walked down the hall, stealthily killing her footsteps. She also held up her polka-dot-patterned mint dress slightly and tiptoed in her ivory-colored low-heeled shoes so that no noise could be made. Where she was walking was the corridor leading to the Grand Dukes office. She already came to see Dalton several times, but this was the first time Ivee to meet Mathius. I wanted toe, but Im afraid Im going to get in the way of his work. She came here today because she had something special to say to Mathius, but she decided to go look first and if he was busy, shell go back quickly. If I go back, I wish no one notice that I had visited him. Thats why Ariel is sneaking now. Ariel approached the door to Mathius office carefully. Then she gently put my ears to the door. Its bad to eavesdrop, but its just to find out if hes busy or not. *kerchak.* Aaat..! The door suddenly opened, and Ariel, who was holding on to it, fell. Fortunately, she didnt get hurt because she fell on the carpet. Ariel rubbed her knee and looked up to see the man who opened the door. .. There was no one at the door. I mean, no one opened the door inside, so how did it open? Automatically? Mathius, who was sitting at his desk far away, stood up when he saw her fall. Ariel. He clicked his tongue and muttered bluntly. You couldve just opened the door toe in, Mathius strode up and carried Ariel up. Did you get hurt? No Sir Mathius. Even though she said she was unhurt, Mathius looked down at Ariels knee and clicked his tongue once again. He lifted Ariel with one arm and put her down on the chair he had just sat on. Sitting on Mathiusrge chair, the little Ariel looked just like a doll sitting in a human chair. Why were you at the door instead ofing in? Ariel, who was amazed by the feeling of a chair that was much bigger than her body, quickly came to her senses. She swung her legs straight from the chair. Im afraid you might be busy. Mathius made a strange expression Theres nothing urgent when ites to La Carte. La Carte keeps others busy, were not the busy ones. It sounded very arrogant, but Ariel, who spent two months here, was convinced. In fact, La Cartes status was indeed that high. I see Yes, so feel free toe and see me. Ariel blushed when she heard it. Fortunately, Mathius didnt seem to be bothered that much. Ariel climbed down from Mathius chair. I came here to tell you something. Mathius leaned against the wall on the side of the window. He unbuttoned his tight sleeve and rolled it up. His arms were revealed with beautifully carved blood veins. What is it? That Ariel swallowed her saliva. Is it okay if I say it? Isnt it a bit out of topic? Struggling, she closed her eyes tightly and squeezed her voice. Well, I want to learn etiquette! When Mathius didnt answer for a long time, Ariel opened her eyes. She saw the expressionless face of Mathius. Afraid of being rejected, Ariel took the courage to add. Im still the hostess of the Grand Duke even when Im young. Ive been thinking about wanting to learn etiquette for some time. Although she was not criticized for her behavior, she wanted to behave like a gooddy. Theres one condition written in the contract she signed with Lucian that she needs to do her duty as a wife. But I dont think Im doing my duty here Im just eating, sleeping, and ying. Chapter 27 I dont know anything, but Im sure that a wifes duty is not just to eat well, sleep well, and receive a lot of gifts. As someone whos the wife of the young lord of the Grand Duke, Ariel felt she was toocking for the position. This idea became stronger when she talked to Allen not too long ago. Allen was respecting her as ady. However, he was reluctant to tell her the secret of the family. The matter seemed to be left to the judgment of the La Carte men. I dont really want to know the secret, but if there is a situation where I have to ask Lucianter At least I dont want to be an unreliable wife who he doesnt want to tell secrets. Mathius who was staring at Ariel asked. What etiquette? Uh, I dont even know table manners But even before Ariel could finish, Mathius answered back. You can learn that when you grow bigger. Also, I dont even know how to make tea Mathius lowered his eyes to Ariels little hand. Its too early. Its going to be hard to hold a teapot with such a small hand. But, I dont know how to use honorifics or manners. Just be nice to everyone, and youll get it roughly. . She was determined, but when she got rejected, she felt sad. She looked up at Mathius and blinked her eyes as if she were about to cry. ..I cant? Mathius face hardened when he saw Ariel who looks like about to cry. You cant. you wont. Then. Mathius frowned in perplexity. He groaned lowly and spoke. You need to y more. Pardon? Ariels eyes widened. Is that the only reason I cant learn etiquette? Mathius touched his long ck hair and continued solemnly. You havent even been able to ride a wolf sled yet, and still never been around the garden during the season when strawberry bushes are bearing fruits. Thats what makes a child grow. UmIve never done that in the past, but I grew up over time. Ariel spoke out carefully. I dont want to learn much. But I want to learn as much as I need. Not until you have more fun. (t/n: papa Mathius is so determined to make her enjoy her childhood *cries*) Mathius said firmly. Ariel dropped her shoulder. Mom, Im being forced to y here. But fortunately, it didnt seem that she had beenpletely rejected. Then Ill y a little more and learn. Yes. She heard an answer more quickly this time. Arielughed inwardly at the permission. Mathius, who was watching Ariel who looked happy, snapped. Alright, youre going to y, so Ill y with you. Yes? How did hee to that conclusion? He pushed the papers that had been hanging down on the desk away. At first nce, the documents seemed important. Mathius asked bluntly. What do you usually do? y with dolls? .. Ariel was speechless. Even though youre my guardian, you are not supposed to feel obligated to y with your sons wife Hah, but I like spending time with Sir Mathius for some reason. It was purely her greed not to say that she was okay. I wanted to spend time with Sir Mathius because I only saw his face at dinner every day. Ariel, who was agonizing over it, mumbled to Mathius. Then Please take a walk with me. A walk? Mathius asked again as if he was unexpected. Is it okay if its not a doll game? Ive heard that little girls like that. Ariels face turned red. I-Im not that young. Mathius nodded with a face that looks like he was not convinced at all. If you want. Ariel hid her shyness and smiled. A walk with Mathius. I was more excited than anything that happened in thest few days. It was then. *Knock** knock* Grand Duke, its Dalton. Donte in. Yes? Mathius spoke stiffly. Dont make me say it twice and get lost. Im going to take a walk. Uh Does he usually talk to Dalton like this. She stared nervously at the closed door where Dalton is standing on the other side, in front of Mathius office. Dalton, who thought he would go out soon, was unexpectedly persistent. Im in trouble now, Grand Duke. Its really urgent. Postpone it. Its from the Imperial family. Then more reason to postpone it. Arielughed at Mathius words. I think he has a simr personality to Lucian. Is it because theyre father and son? I guess blood cant trick you. She grabbed Mathius by the hem of her dress and shook it. Sir Mathius. Sir Mathius. Yes. Ill be going now. Lets take a walk after dinner. Mathius sighed irritably. .see youter. Responding obediently, Ariel hastily walked out of the office. Dalton, who was at the door, looked surprised at her. Young Lady? He suddenly heard the cool voice of Mathius from behind. Come in. Y-yes Grand Duke! Dalton scurried away into the office, hugging the papers. In the mansion that day, there was a lot of talk about Mathius going out for an evening walk with the Young Lady, prompting the servants to wonder. After working for more than 10 years, it was the first time they saw their master do that. Susan smiled and began to prepare Ariels outwear when she said she was going out for a walk with Mathius. It was still winter outside, unlike inside the house, which was always warm with magic. It snowed a lot not long ago, so the snow was still piled up. Susan brought a small dress made of red velvet. Its made up of warm fabric with exquisite gold embroidery near the sleeves and necks and soft lining. On top of it was a cape decorated with white ivy. Susan put some heated stone from the firece in a small pouch and put it in Ariels cape pocket so that Ariels hand wouldnt freeze. The shoes that she prepared for her were ck boots with fluffy fur. Susan, who was helping Ariel dress, spoke in admiration. Oh my goodness, youre so cute! Youre really pretty. Ariel took a turned in ce. She felt good about the velvet that wound around her. Is it pretty? Of course. Susan, who answered, caressed Ariels face. How nice it would have been if you had been the daughter of this family right from the start. Susans voice, saying so, had a little bit of pity on it. If you had, I would have taken care of you since you were young Ariel hugged Susan tightly around her waist. Then if I get married and go to another house, I have to break up with Susan. Oh my, thats right. Im d you got married. Susan smiled and hugged Ariel. The walk with Mathius was quiet. Originally taciturn and blunt, Mathius didnt say much during the walk. Ariel smiled inwardly, thinking she didnt know how such a person tried to y dolls with her. Still, chatting is still better than ying dolls. The sound of a girl and a tall man walking echoed softly in the garden of winter. At the end of February, the end of the cold winter, the night garden was chilly, but the view was very beautiful as the bright moon came up. Ariels breath formed a white cloud as she looked at the full moon, which was full of roundness and glowed. Haaah. As she raised her eyes to Mathius, who was walking in step from the side, I saw dark ck hair and dark blue eyes. Naturally, Lucian with the same ck hair and blue eyes came to her mind. When I first met Lucian, it was a full moon as well. The first day I met him beforeing back. Ariel could not see Lucians face properly because of the bright full moon on his back before. If I had seen him then, I wouldnt have been able to yell out that I will marry him. The man with ck hair whom Ariel met in the past was very special. His first offer of help to her still lingered in Ariels heart. So why did Lucianoffer to help me then? Base on Lucians reputation did not seem to be the type of person wholl extend a helping hand to anyone. He was almost recognized by others as a viin. Was I considered a little special to him even though we only met for the first time? No, thats too conceited. Ariel shook her head. It was important to her, of course, it meant nothing to Lucian. Then suddenly heard Mathius voice. What are you thinking about? Ariel lifted her head and their eyes met. Ah., I was thinking about Lucian. .. Mathius, who heard Lucians name, turned his head and looked into the distance and remained silent. Yes, he is Ariel thought as she watched Mathius muttering with a hint of a smile. I heard they are on bad terms. But Mathius doesnt seem to hate Lucian at all. Rather, the beautiful man with long ck hair in front of her had young eyes of mncholy and remorse. Ariel held Mathius big hand with her small hand. Are you all right? You look sad for some reason. Mathius looked down at her in surprise. Mathius burst intoughter and spoke after a long pause. ha, youre really. I see. He spoke in a whisper. You really are Crimson Hart. Ariel did not heard what the man whispered. But I could only see that Mathius wasnt angry with her. Mathius slowly lowered his other hand in Ariels head. Unlike before, Ariel stayed still and didnt avoid the touch. Mathius big hands that covered her head was very warm. Mathius, who pat Ariel on the head spoke. Lets go in since its cold, He held Ariel in one arm. Ariel was surprised and put her arm around Matthias neck. Then Mathius let out a lowugh. Ariel leaned her head on Mathius shoulders under the pretext of being scared to hear high. Mathius affection was good, unlike the adult men from her past, who always beat and exploited her. Entering the mansion, she thought unknowingly. I wish Sir Mathius were my father. Chapter 28 She told Susan that it was better this way, but Ariel felt the same way. I wish I had been born as a La Carte from the beginning. When she bes an adult, she will have to divorce Lucian then shell also have to leave this ce. That means I will also break up with Susan when the timees. If I were the daughter ofthe Grand Duke, I would never have to get married. She wouldve lived her whole life with Mathius, Lucian, Allen, Woods, and Susan without breaking up with anyone. That means Ill also be together with Lucian as his sister, right? Unlike his brother Jerome, who used to hit and torment her day after day, Lucian was a little capricious, but he didnt do anything bad to her. I wish I had a family like this. Ariel thought so, burying her face into Mathius, inhaling his somewhat musky and cool scent. *chirp* *chirp* The sound of a bird was hearding from the branch in front of the window. The buds formed on the branches also fluttered cutely. Winter, which seemed to never end, has passed, and spring hase to the Empire. A warm air blows in the La Carte mansion and the flowers in the garden that can be seen from the window of Ariels room are in full bloom. And Ariel is into eating strawberries these days. Nyam Strawberries were red, sweet, sour, and juicy. The freshness of the strawberry spreads on her mouth as she ate them one by one. When I lived at a Marquis, I only ate the crushed ones left on Jeromes leftover birthday cake. But now, all the fresh strawberries here were Ariels. Ariel ate strawberries, even dipping them in fresh cream. She also drank what Susan juiced and mixed it with milk. When Ariel, who eats most of the food, was particrly addicted to strawberries, Susan and the maids found how cute it is and did not know what to do. Then one day, Susan acquired a huge amount of strawberries with the maids and made it all into a strawberry syrup. This way, youll be able to taste the strawberries even after spring passes. After cutting strawberry pulp beautifully to show the cross-section, a strawberry syrup made with sugar and strawberries on top is said to be eaten as a hot tea and poured into pancakes instead of maple syrup. Ariel liked anything made of strawberries, so she looked happily at the bottles of red strawberry with some blueberries and mint leaves. When Mathius heard that Ariel liked strawberries, he bought thergest strawberry ntation in the empire without showing much concern. Tell them to send only the best products here. From then on, coarse, sweet, and sour strawberries with preservation magic began to enter the Grand Dukes estate throughout the four seasons. Ariels body, which had only bones, gained weight little by little during the winter. As her thin body became fatter, her snow-white skin also became milder and softer. Her hollow cheeks, which did not look like a childs back then, also looked shiny and rounded with cute curves now. The nights where she wakes up from nightmares are slowly decreasing as well, and thanks to eating well and sleeping well, she also grew a little bit taller. She doesnt look like a regr 10 years old yet, but when she put on the clothes she wore when she first came into the Dukes, her wrists were slightly exposed. Ariel was regretful of the smaller clothes, but Susan was very pleased that her clothes had be smaller and she gave her apuse. Young Madam, you need some new clothes! Susan trembled in excitement saying that it would be better to go to the tailor shop and match her clothes because she is now a 10-year-old girl. Girls your age need to know what suits you and what style you like. Ariel, who had lived without shortages with the clothes Susan prepared for her, used to feel that it was difficult to go to the tailor shop and match her clothes herself. But shes not the same girl, who was always crouching because of her appearance, anymore. Ariel was now looking forward to matching her red hair with clothes that would go well with white skin like snow. There was another change as spring came. Mathius assigned an etiquette teacher for Ariel. The new etiquette teacher for Ariel was the elegant Marchioness Lancel, whos a Counts daughter turned Marchioness when she got marriedst year. There was no risk of leaking any story about Ariel because the Lancel House was involved in the mining project thats currently under the support of the Grand Duke. Marchioness Lancel also did not socialize at all during Ariels teaching and everything that happens in the mansion strictly confidential to outsiders. Ariel began to learn table manners, speech, tea ceremony, and embroidery under Marchioness Lancel. She also learned some popr poems in society. The Marchioness soon fell in love with Ariel and became attached to her very much. What kind of teacher wouldnt fall in love with a young girl who works hard in learning with her eyes shining like a ruby? When Marchioness Lancel who taught her manners for the day left, Ariel chatted about what she had learned in ss while eating snacks prepared by Susan. Susan, Susan. Look at this. I walk well with a bowl on my head now, right? After this embroidery, Im going to learn how to embroider the La Carte family crest! Susan brought more reliable snacks than ever for Ariel, who is taking sses. Like todays thick salmon sandwich with cream cheese. Hmmm~ Ariel nibbled sullenly, biting the soft smoked salmon sandwich. The tea ceremony is fun, but Im not sure about the ck teas taste. Its still too bitter for the youngdys mouth, right? Yes, its delicious if I put in plenty of sugar, but at a gathering ofdies, its not formal if I drink it that way. Susan said with a spiteful smile. Thosedies also drink three or four pieces of sugar in their house, you know? Really? Of course. She couldnt confirm whether the words were true, but Ariel felt a little at ease. From the day Ariel began to drink tea, Susan often served tea instead of milk that she had been serving with snacks. Of course, it wasnt just ck tea or green tea. Susan made milk tea in consideration of little Ariel. ck tea is bitter for a young girls tastes, but the milk softens the taste, so Ariel could enjoy the taste of fragrant ck tea. And on a particrly warm spring day. Ariel climbed onto the outing carriage gifted to her by Mathius. No one could see Ariel from the outside since the blinds are lowered, but anyone who saw the girlish carriage with white awnings bearing the La Cartes family crest knew that the young wife of the Young Lord had gone out. Ariel rode out in the carriage to order her spring clothes. Originally, it was customary for youngdies and women with higher status than thetter to call their designers home without visiting the atelier in person. The boutiques and dressing rooms of the capital, when called by the nobles, packed their precious fabrics, jewelry, and samples of fashionable dresses, fordies. This was because the profits that high nobles pay when they order clothes were enormous. As big money came and went, most of the high ranking nobles made and traded to regr boutiques. By opening deals with exclusive boutiques, you can prioritize reservations, preempt rare fabrics, and get information on social trends. Therefore, even when they needed clothes of different styles, the nobles did not use several boutiques and made requests to other boutiques through their own exclusive boutiques. Ariel was also about to choose her own tailor shop. Of course, she didnt go out simply to decide it. When Mathius heard from Susan that Ariel needed clothes, he ordered the servant to bring the best tailor shop owners together. Get all the best tailor shop owners in the capital. Among them, Ariel will choose. The treasurer, Dalton was amazed by his master, who cares about the youngdys clothes. Of course, doing such a thing was as easy as breathing for the Grand Duke but its a different case for him to be interested in it. Before Dalton could answer, however, Ariel, who had been silent, opened her mouth. Sir Mathius, can I go and see for myself? Thatll be troublesome, Mathius replied bluntly, frowning. But now Ariel was getting used to the way Mathius spoke. I know that he doesnt mean that Im troublesome. Hes just worried about me. I want to go. Ive never been on the streets of the capital after all. After hearing Ariels words that she had never visited the capital city even though she was supposed to be the Marquiss esteemed daughter, Dalton and Susan began to cheer for Ariels outing with one heart. Dalton, who doesnt express himself in front of the Grand Dukes, carefully spoke out. Mdy, Let me assist you. If we added a few blue lion knights as your escort, there wouldnt be any problem for your safety, Susan added cautiously. Or maybe we can send her out with Marchioness Lancel. Mathius still looked ufortable. Dalton nervously widened his eyes. Mathius reclining in his chair, suddenly eximed. I dont like it all. Ill go with her myself. W-what?! Dalton inadvertently shouted out loud in surprise but closed he immediately closed his mouth when he saw Mathius fierce eyes. Who is this person?! The new youngdy is interested to go shopping for her clothes, and the Grand Duke wants to go and apany her himself. Grand Duke Mathius, whom Dalton has been serving for quite a while now, was never such a man. His master was as sensitive, cold, and lethargic as a beast before hibernation. He doesnt do anything unless it is necessary. If anything bothers him, he executes them without making any sound. Whoever bothers the La Carte will have to pay, whoever it was. Mathius hated going out of the mansion or caring about the little things in the house. He hated change, so everyone in the mansion struggled to keep the environment the same Dalton, who entered the house shortly after the birth of the Young Lord Lucian, did not know what Mathius was like before. But what is certain is that what he is seeing these days is not what he has seen in thest 14 years. He eats with the youngdy every day, puts toy requests to the finest craftsmen from time to time, and ignores the royal message since he has to y with the youngdyand now, hes saying that hell apany the youngdy in her shopping? Chapter 29 Hes is like a father who got reunited with his long lost youngest daughter. Like a head-over-heels father to his cute daughter Wah, are you reallying with me? The young madam, who happily weed the Grand Dukes suggestion to go out with her was not an ordinary person either. Even though theyre usually hiding their immense presence, a La Carte is still a La Carte. Had Dalton had to choose, he would never have chosen to go out with the Grand Duke. Of course, that was apletely different case from his loyalty to the Grand Duke. Isnt the Young Lady scared of the Grand Duke or the Young Lord? Its normal for young children to be afraid once they notice the aura the La Cartes are releasing but Ariel is different. Shes really amazing. Shes the perfectdy for this house. Daltons positive assessment of Ariel was increasing without limit. If Ariel had known about this, she would have tilted her head. When it was concluded that she was going out with him, Susan began to prepare Ariel. Like any child, her wounds heal fast, thats she has no visible scars anymore. But Susan couldnt still feel relieved. The people in the tailor shop shell be meeting today are veterans who have been dealing with a lot of youngdies and madams. In their keen eyes, it could be seen that Ariel did not grow up to be as well cared for as the usual aristocratic girls. Susan did her best to make sure that Ariel didnt show any sign of it. The pin-tucked dress Susan prepared for her has white flower patterns in a navy background with a thin silkce ribbon ced in the center of the cor. It even looks more lovely and ssy because of the ribbons attached to the bottom of the dress. It was a decent dress for a spring outing, but its important to look aristocratic as much as possible now since we could fit the colorful and pretty ones from now on. Andstly, she curled her scarlet red hair into rolls on the lower part and covered the top with an outdoor bo Hoo, its perfect now. Ariel looked like a cute young nobledy. Mathius, who was waiting for Ariel on the sofa in the drawing-room, stroked her head over the bo as Ariel walked out of the room. Lets go. He reached out his hand. Yes, Sir Mathius. Ariel sped Mathius hand. Ariels height was so small and Mathius was so big that the image of the two looks strange, but Ariel felt ticklish and happy. It feels like Im going out with my dad. Ariel walked lightly to the carriage, striding her big ruby-studded Mary Janes shoes pleasantly against the floor. There was a small window on the spring outing carriage presented by Mathius, so Ariel could look outside. There was one special thing about that window: Brunos magic was cast on it, so it was invisible from the outside. It seemed that it had faded a little as spring came, but it was a spell cast by Bruno that was directly ordered by Mathius, who didnt want to throw a useless talk to the social world who was still interested in the new Grand Duchess. I like this. Ariel was also very pleased with the fact that she could look outside without being seen outside. Small and medium-sized mansions and shops of nobles were seen on the big streets of the capital. It was also noticeable that the servants who were in charge of the errands of the nobles were passing by in small carriages. Wow, how pretty. Ariel who was still looking outside and eximed. She had been in the Grand Dukes estate and going out like this made all the other things felt small for her. The downtown area of the Imperial Capital, which is famous for its splendor, looked smallpared to the enormous and extravagant appearance of the Grand Dukes residence. After a long time, the carriage entered the street where the capitals tailor shops and jewelers were gathered. Mathius stopped the carriage in front of thergest tailor shop. Upon hearing the news of the visit of the Grand Duke and the Grand Duchess, the Madame who owned the biggest tailor shop ran out and greeted Ariel. Oh, my God, its an honor to see the rumored Young Grand Duchess. Ariel faced the Madame while covering her face with a magic fan that had the same magic as the carriages window. She hadnt gotten off the wagon yet. It seems like Ill be blinded by the beauty of Grand Duchess. Ive only heard that youre a person who has a halo, but I think Ill see that light today. The Madame smiled nervously and praised Ariel even though she hasnt seen her face yet. Originally, young guests tended to fall for these soft tteries. In fact, until just now she had been dealing with a flood of spring ball gown orders. As it is the spring ball season in which love blossomed, aristocrats rushed to meet new dresses. Many male customers ordered dresses for their lovers as well. It is the season of the seasons, which is why almost all of the tailor shops are so busy that most tailor shops cant receive other guests. But that doesnt matter right now. The Madame raised her eyes and examined Ariels face through the fan. Just being able to see the veiled Grand Duchess was worth putting off the orders she had received. One of the characteristics of a tailor shop is that it is a ce where rumors circte. And thedies who visit the tailor shop were the ones who knew the value of the rumor. She kept her mouth shut to rumors that shouldnt be leaked, and made money by asking and offering rumors that others did not know. The Madame smiled greedily inside and calcted how expensive a rumor about the new Grand Duchess would be able to sell. Ariel watched the Madam quietly, holding her hands together. If I were really a 10-year-old, I might have fallen for it, but.. She had already lived to the age of seventeen. She didnt get to be old enough to be an adult, but at least she had a better eye for people than any normal 10-year-olds. She wasnt naive enough to be swayed by a few sweetpliments. Ariel didnt want to buy clothes from a woman who spoke only with her mouth, while her eyes were full of calctions and disregard for young children like her. Ariel whispered to Mathius in the fan. Sir Mathius, I dont want to buy clothes in here. Can we go somewhere else? You are the Grand Duchess of La Carte. Theres nothing you cant do. He replied, then he pointed to the most luxurious dress on the window of the Madames Shop. Ill send you the measurementster, so send me one with that design. The Madame, who became frozen at the cold aura of the Grand Duke, raised his head. Y-yes, Grand Duke. The dress Mathius pointed at was a dress that had not yet been ordered by anyone ever because it was too expensive. Its price was equivalent to the price of ten dresses worn by ordinary youngdies. The Madame felt as if she had captured their interest with just this. Now, lets bring them inside and officially. Lets go, Mathius ordered and the horseman drove the carriage gently away from the tailor shop. Huh? The Madame dropped her jaw as she looked at the vanishing Grand Dukes carriage. After a while, a murmur ran out of her mouth. Why.? Did I make any mistake? Sir Mathius, why did you order that dress just now? Ariel asked with pure curiosity. It was obvious that the dress Mathius ordered was a dress for a ball or banquet even at first nce. Ariel, who has yet to make her social debut, did not need that kind of a dress that much although it was very pretty. Mathius, who was asked, replied bluntly. You need a piece of clothing to wear at home. C-clothes to wear.at home? I would be scared to sit anywhere wearing that in case it gets dirty. The mansion where she currently lives is a ce she has to spend her daily life, so even if she thought that she has to get used to the luxury, Ariel, who has lived without anything all her life in the past, could not easily adapt to the spending of the people of the Grand Duke. Thats why. While touring various tailor shops, Ariel ended up choosing a small atelier that was neither very famous nor big in the end. Madame Helen, the owner of the tailor shop she chose, was very quick and skilled, so she was running the ce by herself without having staff. Helen did not tter Ariel to satisfy the vanity of the youngdy. She didnt rmend expensive ones just because she didnt know much because she was young. If youre getting a formal dress, youll need a corset and a petticoat first. The quality of the decoration of the dress varies depending on where you are attending. It depends on whether its outdoors or indoors dress. Helen exined to Ariel in detail about the fabric, decorations, and embroidery. Nevertheless, there was no disrespect in her voice. Ariels status was far higher, so she would not have been ignored anywhere, but if they knew that Ariel did not know about clothes or essories, she would have talked behind her. Are you sure its aristocratic? But Helen didnt think it was strange that Ariel didnt know very well. Instead, she looked at Ariel as herself. Her eyes that look so gentle, her rare red hair, white jade-like skin, and sweet smilee to Helens mind. Although shes still looks unmatured due to her young age, and her body is basically thin and slender, this type of body shape could create various moods depending on the clothes. A spark of passion red up in Madame Helens heart. Her basics look great, so anything will suit her in any way. But the thing about Ariel that stimtes her inspiration the most is her scarlet red hair. Ariels red hair was a decoration in itself. Perhaps even if she made a dress that suits her hair, it will attract peoples attention. Therefore, if only the color and material of the fabric were selected well to match the hair. Ariel would shine like a person made of jewelry. Helen was already looking forward to Ariel growing up. But I shouldnt be full at the first drink.* (t/n: means dont or shouldnt get ahead of ones self or something like that. ) She hid her burning eyes and gradually began exining the basics of the dress to Ariel. Corsets usually start at the age of 14. Maturedies start wearing it at the age of 13. Before that, you should wear corset-shaped underwear. You need to gain more weight because even the smallest corsets are loose on your torso. She tried to find something that matched Ariels needs best. Looking at Helen, Ariel was able to adjust to the awkwardness she felt from tailor shops. And after a while, new enlightenment came to Ariel. Oh. The clothes Susan gave me were really indoor dresses. The world of dresses was reallyplicated and vast. Ahh another addition to Ariels fans Anyway, Im still having a hard time in tranting Ariel and Lucians title because theres no urate english trantion to them!!! hngg!!! I guess Ill stick to Young Lord for Lucian for now, but Ill be using Grand Duchess, Young Lady and Young Madam for Ariel depending on the situation. I hope I dont confuse you lols. Chapter 30 Ariel never wore a formal dress, except for the beigece dress that she wore when she went to the Marquis on the first day. She always only wore one-piece dresses for young girls. It was very hectic to wear a formal dress with a corset, petticoat, pannier, and outeryered dress anyway. But I like all the fabrics that Helen brings me. Helen brought Ariel clean, various colored fabrics thatll make her pretty red hair and white skin stand out. After hearing Helens exnation, Ariel found herself in a flower-patterned dress. The borate and colorfulce decorations fit Ariel perfectly. At the same time, she had a pretty aura that could overwhelm everyone around her even if she leaves her hair without any decoration. Helen couldnt miss this young muse that inspired her. I think a few dresses and a few indoor party-dresses to wear when you invite guests would be enough. Helen advised carefully. Ariel still hadnt made her social debut yet, so she didnt make a dress for a ball or a banquet. Mathius let her take Ariels measurements and ordered some clothes. Then, what would you like to do with the Princesss essories? It would be nice to look at some ready-made ones, but I dont think there are any ready-made essories for youngdies yet. Mathius whos sitting in a straight posture while watching Ariel decide on her dress, spoke and rubbed his forehead briefly. Ill leave the jewelry to you. Go to the Grand Dukes residence next time. Ill also call a good craftsman. Use it to design and make something suitable for Ariel. (t/n: this is a bit confusing. I might edit thister.) Yes, Grand Duke. Make sure my child doesnt wear the same thing as others. Ill keep that in mind. Ariel who was already feeling a little tired got into the carriage going back home. I think clothes are difficult. Mathius looked at Ariel and replied in a light tone. You dont need to worry about your clothes that much. In fact, no one would dare speak ill of you even if you wear anything at any banquet hall. If theres one, we can get rid of them. What kind of mindset does this man have? But since he is Lucians wife, she didnt want to embarrass him while she was living as the Lady of the house. Plusfinding something that suits her was more fun than she thought. Ariel leaned heavily against the back of the carriage. The outing was fun, but It feels good to think that Im going back to myfortable home. Then a sudden ident happened. Ariel was looking outside the window. Ariel found the scenery of the rural area on their way back better than the streets of the capital. The flowers in the road, the sweet scent of acacia, and a haze blooming far away. How nice Ariel had never got to enjoy spring in her previous life. The only memory she had of spring while living in the attic was the relief that winter had passed and the shivering cold stop, and after being sold to [Him], all she could focus on was throwing-up blood because of magic thats why she didnt know how the season went. The first spring of Ariels life at the age of ten was the spring of her life. Ariel who was enjoying the warm spring temperature pressed her soft cheeks against the window. It was then. Huh? Whats wrong with that? Ariels eyes looking out the window caught something strange. The movement of the carriage running on the opposite road was unusual. On the surface, it just seemed like a fast carriage, but for Ariel who was a former high-ss wizard, it felt strange. Something was definitely wrong. It seems that its being controlled by something The carriage was luxurious as if a fairly high aristocrat were riding it. Ariel checked to see if there was a person inside. Theres a girl inside! A girl who had purple hair with a frightened look on her face looked desperate as if she was asking for help. At that moment, the carriage began to run out of the bridge where the river flowed. No! She didnt even have time to call Mathius. Ariel unknowingly released mana. A light shed before their eyes. She could feel the flow of air flowing backward. Huuk Ariel felt a splitting pain all over her body. The mana seemed to squeeze her small body. Ariel gasped painfully. It hurts. Its killing me. Ariel was in pain, but she didnt take her eyes off the carriage. Fortunately, the carriage with the purple-haired girl didnt seem to have crashed. Only did Ariel remembered her promise to Lucian as the tension started to ease. Ah. Lucian told me not to use magic. Her vision started to turn ck. Arie! And thest thing she heard before shepletely loses consciousness was Mathius calling her name. Everything happened in a matter of seconds. Ariel found a strange carriage, paused, and a huge light burst just before the carriage rushed into the railing of the bridge. Of the people there, the only one who saw the situation properly was Grand Duke Mathius. Ariels mana stopped the uncontrobly running carriage and covered it with a protective shield to prevent it from being overturned. However, as the strong force exploded, everything around it was devastated. The trees were uprooted and turned upside down, and the river under the bridge soared into a sea of water on the bridge. The street was overturned by the unprecedented situation. However, only a little girl fell helplessly in Mathiuss sight. Arie! He held Ariels body so it wouldnt hit the floor of the carriage. He pushed the coachman out of his misery and cut off the link between the carriage and the horse with a sword. Mathius climbed the horse, holding Ariel tightly. Hiya! When he hit the reins hard, the horse, which felt threatened by the predator, began to run like it has wings on its feet. Mathius went straight back to the Grand Dukes residence and jumped off with Ariel in his arms. Bruno! Bring Bruno and the doctor! Susan and Allens faces turned pale when they saw the little Ariel hanging on the arms of their master who suddenly returned. Susan immediately called in the female doctor Miller and Allen called Bruno. Mathius told Bruno about what happened on the bridge after he had Millers check-up. Her mana suddenly blew up. Everything around a 10-meter radius is turned over. Bruno looked closely at the still unconscious Ariel, whose lips were pale. .. He ced a hand on Ariels forehead to read her mana flow but the former Head Wizard face darkened. The girl Ariel saved is named Diana Monica. She was the only child of Duke Monica. Diana decided to go out to look around for a trendy hair decoration for her spring ball dress, but she couldnt buy anything and was on her way back. However, the speed of the carriage that was running on the road suddenly began to increase. She was scared so she shouted at the coachman to slow down, but she couldnt hear any answer. I shouldve brought my escort out. It was supposed to be a quick spring outing and she had been tired of bringing escorts everywhere so she decided to leave them for today but her carelessness bit her back. What an immature act it was. She put herself in danger. Diana was raised as a Dukes daughter ever since she was a child, so she was a smart girl who didnt panic at most things. She even received an education in preparation for kidnapping and intimidation, like a princess. But something didnt feel right about this incident. If they were kidnappers, they wouldnt run dangerously as they are now. They would have secured her safely and tried to get ransom, but this situation is Its like theyre trying to kill me! Diana fearfully grabbed the handle in the carriage as hard as she could. In a short moment, she looked at the window of the carriage passing by from the other side and asked for help. But she didnt see anyone in the window. It was closed. Please save me anyone please. Diana prayed earnestly inside and shouted. And just before the uncontroble carriage hit the bridge and fell. It happened. The carriage stopped as the dazzling light spread out. Diana fell inside the wobbly carriage. Then, the river that was flowing under the bridge soared and spilled over the road. Diana didnt die. Maybe God listened to my prayer. Found at the scene, she was soon taken to Duke Monica. When Duke Monica heard that her only treasured daughter, had been in a carriage ident, stumbled back, and when he heard that the person who saved his daughter was Grand Duke Lacartel, he stumbled one more time. And as soon as his daughter woke up safely, he came straight to the Grand Dukes residence. Originally, it was very disrespectful to visit the Grand Duchy without a formal invitation. However, he couldnt help but thank his daughters benefactor. A high-ranking aristocrat of the Empire, he was only able to be guided into the Grand Duchy for a long time. Your Highness, the Grand Duke. The Monica family has been greatly indebted in you. Duke Monica bowed before Grand Duke Mathius. The Grand Dukes cold gaze turned to his face. Im afraid, Im not the one you should be indebted to. Pardon? If it were me, I would have let your daughter die under that carriage. The Grand Duke pressed down on his temple as if he were suppressing his anger. The Princess was riding in the carriage I was riding. Your daughter was saved by the child. Ha, but I heard that the Princess is very youngHow could that happen? Because shes the one who got hurt instead. The duke swallowed his breath. H-how is t-the Princess.? She hasnt woken up yet. Im ashamed of myself. A low,manding voice fell on the Duke of Monica. Duke Monica, now you have a job to do. The Duke trembled and made eye contact with the Grand Duke. Mathius said fiercely, twisting his mouth. Find the person who caused the carriage ident. Take then in front of me, whether its a family rival or a political opponent. I understand. Youll pay for thister. After finishing the work, Mathius gave a bloodymand. Youre dismissed. Turning frozen cold, he added a word. Again. I wont sit back and let this thing go. The middle-aged Duke Monica retreated without saying a word. He felt so much pressure from the Grand Duke that he could not breathe until I left the office. Princess Arie. Returning to his residence, Duke Monica whispered the name of the benefactor who saved his daughters life. Chapter 31 A young girl who just turned 10 years old this year. Although he had been in a close rtionship with Marquis Lucillion for a long time now, he had never seen Ariel, the Marquis Young Lady. The Marquis had always been reticent about her. Now that Ariel was injured, the Duke wondered if he should talk to Marquis Lucillion about this, but he suddenly thought of the Grand Dukes words and shut up. It was time to find out who caused the carriage ident. That evening, the Grand Dukes son, Lucian Desmond Lacartel, who had passed six gates, returned to the Grand Dukes residence. Prince! Lucian, who came across the continent like a storm without sending a message that he would return, visited Ariel as soon as he arrived. Wheres the kid? The young madam is inside the But before Allen, the butler could even finish his sentence, Lucian had already went pass him. Allen quickly followed and looked at the small back of his master who he did not see for a few of months. An average person can handle passing through the maximum of three gates in a day. This is because passing a gate consumes a lot of physicalstrength. The physical strength bes the power of magic, thats why a person passing through a huge distance had to endure the fatigue hell feel after. Traveling more than three gates could have caused exhaustion or loss of consciousness. However, Lucian, who had passed six gates in half a day, did not feel a single drop of fatigue. Its just a sharp stretch of momentum thats close to life. Throughout the winter, the boy grew taller and his features became sharper. Sitting underneath his ck hair, was his cold eyes as deep as the ocean. The icy gaze that feels like a freezing winter storm made people shiver every time he passed by. The area where the boy lives in theJohannes Imperial Academy is the westernmost part of the empire, where the climate is winter for half of the year, so he didnt even know he had a cold impression. Lucian opened the handle with a touch that was not considerate of the door at all. As he went inside, a pink girly room unfolded before his eyes. A girl wrapped in a thick nket on a nap bed with ace canopy was lying down taking a short breaths. Prince Lucian. Bruno, who was guarding the Princess side, stood up with a surprised face. Lucian ignored him and approached the bed with impatient steps. The girls cheeks were flushed with heat. Her uneven breathing proved that the girls body was not normal. What happened? A frosty question fell to Bruno. The former Head Wizard, who knew the Lacartels identity, was cautious not to disturb his nerves. She released a huge amount of mana at once. You probably already know that the young madam is a wizard. Im not asking what she did. Im asking whats wrong with her body. Because of the sudden mana burst, it devours most of her bodys energy. She had always been weak. Brunos voice who tried to exin the situation, has be smaller and smaller. It was because of the heavy pressure Lucian was weighing on him. Bruno at least, can handle this much because hes a strong wizard but the others cant. The maid who came in to change Ariels wet towel had already fainted at the door. Ariel turned over and groaned, perhaps agitated by the heat. Mom. Huk. Mom The sick child sobbed looking for a mother she had never ever seen before. Lucian mumbled a curse and swept his head hard. He had an urge to crush everything. Do something. Youre a goddamn wizard. Bruno opened his mouth with an emaciated face. Shes in an extremely weak state, so she cant take a magic potion that replenishes stamina. Once released, her mana never stops pouring and continues to eat up her physical energy. Lucian squeezed his fist hard enough to crush his bones. Then what should I do? We need to calm down her overflowing manna. Its just stabilizing. You can do that much! Lucian exploded in a low voice. Mana is an absolutely driven by the logic of power. It obey the strong and eat the weak. It was for that reason that a person who was born with no mana could be a sword master. Mana obeys the master, who has be stronger as he ascends to the sword. Therefore, a strong man like Bruno who was the Great former head wizard could stabilize the mana in such a little girls body. But Bruno shook his head. His voice was perplexed. Ive already tried. But strangely enough, the mana in the young madams bodyIt doesnt obey to my own. Damn it. Lucian roughly untied his school uniform tie, which felt like strangling him. Bruno looked at his eyes and spoke. Do you happen to want to try it? I dont know why its not working with mebut if its you Look here. A cial chilling voice stopped Bruno from speaking. Dont you know what kind of attribute my mana is? Im asking you to at least try. Its different from the Grand Duke. What if she gets hurt more? Brunos knee lost its strength because of Lucians aura. It was a terrible feeling of pressure. Its still betterthan not trying atall. Ugh. Lucian asked in a disillusioned tone. Mathius. Hasnt he tried? He said he would make a decision when he gets back. get lost. Get out. Lucian drove everyone out of the room. The only ones left in the room is Lucian and his young wife. He looked down at the girl with an infinitely fragile body. Even a little mistake can kill Ariel. Itll be instant, he wont be able to reverse it. Lucian slowly brought his hand under Ariels left vicle, where her heart beats. He felt a huge amount of mana running uncontrobly inside her thats too much for such a small body to handle. Lucian released his pent pressure that he had suppressed a little bit. What Bruno felt was only a fraction of his power. When he released the force he had held, the mana in Ariels body felt it and she flinched. Lucian growled lowly in a threatening voice. Stay still. He sucked some of Ariels mana into his palm. The mana, who obeyed the top predators touch, started toe along obediently. Her mana will be replenished by itself if Ariel recovers properly anyway,so Lucian focused on absorbing her mana as much as possible. It was flowing in Ariels body until just now, so unlike his wild and cold mana, it was fluffy and warm. Lucian uttered a small curse. Damn it. Youre like this because youve been eaten by this shit. Ariels face, which had been suffering from pain since earlier is starting to be morefortable when he suckedher mana. Her pitifully curled body was relieved. However, the mana that was circling in Ariels body, did not be calm. Ariel was extremely vulnerable, unlike Lucian, and her mana knew it well. The mana, that was still inside Ariels body, is still running wild and eating up the girls physical energy. How annoying. Lucian irritated reflected the mana. He sat on the bed to widen the area that reached Ariels body. He took off his hand under her corbone and wrapped them around Ariels body with one arm. What hes about to do from now on was really dangerous. His head stopped at his own brink of momentum. I might kill you with my own hands. Lucian reminded himself in advance. But he didnt want to imagine whatll happen after that. He run his hand over Ariels hair and pressed his finger on her cheek. He felt its softness. Lucian mouth stretched up without realizing it. It feels a little different from when he touched it previously. He was now thinking of opening up a little more. If the mana in Ariels body cannot ovee the fear and explodes, the girls breath will be cut off. But if it gets scared and calm down He pulled Ariels slender body like a delicate doll and held her tightly and released his aura. Ariels face turned pale even though she fainted. Just hang in there this time, kid. Lucian mumbled, his arms flexing. He could feel Ariels mana hovering around in the energy of the predator. Lucian spouted briefly. Be calm. Now. *shik.* The mana that was refluxing for a moment, changed the flow at once. What had soared backwards turned forward and began to flow slowly. It was after that that the blood returned to Ariels face. . Lucian stared at Ariels mana, that was obedient to his power. Brunos mana was never weak. It didnt respond to Brunos mana, but it responded to my own? Ha. Really. What happened to you? He swept down his forehead. Lucian pulled the string straight to call Bruno. An arrogant voicemanded. Bring me some stamina magic pills. Ariel wiggled out of sleep under a cozy nket. Her body feels a little heavy, but even in a dreamy state, she didnt feel bad. Hmm As she stretched one arm over her head slightly, a low-ripe voice was heard. Are you awake? ! Ariel immediately opened her eyes. Lucian! She suddenly remembered the previous situation when she became fully awake. She used magic to save a girl. I broke my contract with Lucian. Ariel pretended to sleep again, pulling the nket over her head. She was feeling cozy and warm, as if shes floating above the clouds just a little earlier, but now, she feels like she have fallen below the ground. What happens to me now? It was thanks to the contract with Lucian that she came into this house in the first ce. And it was an absolutely desperate contract for her. But I broke our promise Am I going to bekicked out? Will I be sent back to the Marquis? If thats so then I never wanted to get out of this bed. Ariel pretended to be asleep, almost as if shes dead. She could hear a chilly voice outside the nket. Stop that and get up, Arie Lacartel. Ah, I got caught. He might get even angrier if I keep doing this. Ariel pulled down the nket without being more stubborn. An angry-faced Lucian sat on the bedside table looking down at her. He lowered his eyes enticingly to meet her eyes. The words finally flowed out of his red lips that seem to drawn her in. You broke your promise. Chapter 32 Ariel bit her lower lip hard. She wanted to make an excuse. But it was clearly her fault that she used magic in the first ce. I had to admit what I had to admit. Yes I broke it. Im sorry. Then you know there will be a consequence. This is the end. Do I have to get out of this house? Now, Susan, Sir Mathius, Woods, Holston, Dalton, and Mr. Allen I will never see them again. When she thought of that, tears suddenly burst out of her eyes. I-I dont want to go home. Tears like chicken poo fell silently from the round, big eyes. (t/n: seriously Author-nim? Out of all things you can describe her tears with, you use chicken poop?) Ariel spoke in a trembling voice. P.. Please Huck Dont kick me out of here, please . Lucian frowned on his forehead. I feel like a viin. He cant say hes not a viin to this girl, but he felt bad to see this reaction. Sometimes, she looks at me as if shes believing that its okay for her life to be mine. Even her mana doesnt listen to other people, and only listens to me. Is she shaking because shes afraid Im gonna kick her out? His selfish and arrogant judgment waspletely twisted. It was natural for him to see other people scared of him. He was used to it. But its different if its her. The words spontaneously came out of his mouth roughly. Stop crying. Unfortunately, he had no idea. The more he pushed for her like that, the more itll pour out. Hick. I, dont, wanna, cry, either, hick, waaaaaah.! Ariel burst into tears loudly. She was afraid of Lucian telling her not to cry, so she tried to endure it, but she was filled with so much sorrow when she thought she would break up with him. Lucian came down from where he sat and walked around the bed. Ariel who was busy crying, couldnt see what expression he was making. After wandering next to the bed one or two more times, he spoke again. Stop crying. Hick, but, its, not workiiiing Hick. Damn it. Lucian held Ariels face with his hands and fixed it in ce. Ariel was crying frantically and when her eyes met his blue eyes, she stopped crying for a moment. Dont look at me like that. He lowered his reddish and warm lips around Ariels eyes. It scattered her tears. Why did you even cry? Lucian slowly wiped the tears smudged on her white cheeks with his lips. He liked that the crying sounds are fading. Ariel was surprised by Lucians behavior, but she calmly let his lips pass. It felt different from when Susan kissed me. It was hotter and itchier. Her anxiety seemed to subside a little somehow. When Ariel stopped crying slowly, Lucian let go of her cheeks. He threw his eyes out the window. I dont like people who break promises. Hick. He frowned at the intermittent sound of a hup. Thats why all the people who broke their promise to me are dead. Even now, I can just kill you. Ariel thought while hupping. So Im not being kicked out, Im going to get killed. Lucian opened his mouth. But I wont kill you. I dont want to kill you. Thats why I forgive you. Ariel whimpered and wiped away her tears. Isnt it supposed to be the other way around? Shouldnt it be like hell forgive me so he wont kill me? But. Forgive? Ariel looked up. His logic seems somewhat strange, but now that the word of forgiveness has been mentioned, her hope has arisen. Youre not going to kill me? I wont kill you. T-then I dont have to leave this house? Didnt I broke the deal? No. He turned his eyes to Ariel after a short answer. And said arrogantly. If I want to break the deal with someone, I dont talk nonsense. I get rid of them. T-then, thank you for not killing me? Tears welled up in Ariels eyes again when she realized that shell not die or be kicked out. Lucians face hardened. Why are you crying? Do you still have anything to cry within that little body of yours? I wont cry! I wont cry! Ariel hurriedly wiped away her tears. The skin where she wiped harshly was flushed. Lucian touched her head. Youre so weak. Why is your body like this? He reached out and grabbed Ariels wrist. It was as thin as a delicate doll. Did you really eat well? I dont see any changes at all. Im eating well. I really am. Ariel quickly stepped up to im. I have three meals a day, afternoon snacks, tea, dessert after dinner, and milk before bed! But Lucian didnt seem very convinced. Listening with an indifferent look, he let go of Ariels wrist and grabbed her chin instead. A long finger touched her cheek then he let go. Lucians red lips opened. okay. Ill release the magic ban as of today. Ariels eyes opened widely. Really? Yeah, but you need to learn magic instead. Learn magic? Ariel shrank a little. The pain of learning magic in the past had remained a deep trauma to her. Ariel felt an extreme amount of pain when she first learned magic. It was at the beginning of her training days that she vomited the most blood. Even if you dont learn Lucians voice became stiff. You said youd be my wizard. I hate seeing whats mine, being weak. So learn it properly. Ariel bit her little pink lips. Bing stronger will surely be very painful and difficult. But if doing it will allow me to stay here, then I will. I will do anything if I can stay here. I got it, Ariel smiled at Lucian. Thank you, Lucian. As he looked at her with his cold eyes, he moved his body. Ill go. Huh? Wait a minute. Ariel grabbed onto the hem of his clothes without realizing it. Lucian, who turned around, looked at her again. What. Ariel flinched for a moment, but she spoke frankly. I havent seen you in a long time, so I was wondering if you were real. Lucian came back and sat on her bed. And held Ariels cheek painfully and shook her. Hey. Your husband is really here. Right? Right. Ariel reached out and stroked Lucians ck hair. Wow, it really feels soft. Lucian was dumbfounded. He cant believe shes touching him. Without fear. Ariel moved her hips next to Lucian, who sat on the bed and sat close to him. Then she leaned her head against his arm. A burst of softughter leaked out. Youre really Lucian. Lucians back. I thought wed see each other in a year. Lucians expression now contained embarrassment beyond absurdity. The hard and arrogant mask on his face cracked. However, since theres still some medicine left Ariels system, he quickly pushed her back to sleep. Im sleepy. Sleep. No, I dont want to Ariel fell asleep, contrary to herst answer as she feels the cool hand brushing her hair. Lucian, who sat next to the sleeping for a while, went to Mathius at night. Mathius usually stays inside the Grand Dukes residence, but for some reason, he went out today. He just came back and was taking off his jacket. Lucian repressed the disgust he felt by the existence of his father and spoke coldly. Tell me. What do you mean? Why she broke her promise and saved whoever that is. And the bastard who caused the ident. Mathius looked at Lucian quietly. Why should I tell you? So I can kill them. Mathius, who untied his long ck hair, took off the gloves he had on his hands and shook them off. The air is stained with blood. Im on my way to kill the bastard who caused the ident. For the first time ever since the beginning, it was only at this moment that the hearts of the two people met. Lucian stared at Mathius, who looked horrifyingly resembling himself, then swung his hand once topletely ruin his office. *shiiiing* Lucian spoke coolly in the sound of things breaking and the zing dust. You should have stopped her from getting hurt from the start. Youre included in my revenge. He was so angry that I can twist Mathius neck right now. Damn this man. Lucian was about to turn around suddenly saw something and stopped. Whats this? A paper boat folded using pink paper was ced on the shelf of Mathius ss disy case attached to the wall. It doesnt fit well within the dark and deste ce. Soon Lucian, who deduced the source of the pink paper boat, crumpled his face mercilessly. *bam* The door closed hard and fell and rolled back on the floor. In the room, only a disy case and a pink paper boat remained intact without breaking alone. When Ariel woke up the next day, her recovery began with loud cheers. She was told that she had fainted for quite a while and that she had been very sick and its because of mana congestion. Ariel was puzzled when she saw Brunos serious expression while exining it. Isnt that the way it was? It was perfectly normal for her in the past. After using magic, she always lost her consciousness and suffers from a high fever for several days The same was true when she first joined a group of wizards and learned magic. Little Ariel suffered from illness caused by her mana every night. She throws up everything she ate, suffered from fever, and fell down from time to time. At that time, no one around Ariel took her symptoms seriously and only gave her little to no attention. He said it was because Ariel wasnt good enough. Ariel believed that, too. Shes sick because shes not good enough. But even when she became able to handle magic wellter, she thought that the after-effects were severe because of herck of talent. So I took this pain for granted. She didnt even think about how to solve it. However, no one in the house seemed to think so, including the wizard, Bruno. Everyone was taking this situation very seriously. They were all fussy and worried about Ariels physical condition. Bruno brought the medicine on time. It was an orange thick, bitter syrup-type medicine. Its a magic potion that will restore the young madams health. It helps the body support mana. Ariel took a spoonful of bitter syrup medicine and received a sweet snack from Susan as a prize. When she got sick, Susan receded and gave her more sweets than usual. Lucian and Ariel is giving me diabetes AHHHH I CANT WAIT FOR THEM TO GROW UP. Theyre making me realize that Ill be single for life *ssob* And I didnt expect that meeting between the father and son so he hated his dad THAT much huhdeym Chapter 33 Chef Holston said that it would be better if Ariel ate healthy food so he prepared a meat stew that tasted like herbal medicine at her every meal. The stew contained bones and meat with an unusual shape, but Ariel could not imagine an animal simr to that shape no matter how much she looked at it. Hmm, if I had to think of something simr, could it be a Drake I once saw in a book? After Ariel woke up, Mathius came to her and asked her bluntly if she was okay, then he stroked her head for a long time without saying a word. For some reason, Ariel felt like the one being touched gently is her heart. Mathius hands were big and warm, it felt good. The maids also held Ariels hand and wept when she met them. We thought something bad happened to you, Young Madam. Thats right. You look lifeless when you came in, so When everyone in the mansion acted like Ariels illness was a big deal, she became a little confused. Isnt it natural to suffer after using magic? She couldnt ask anyone because it was rted to her past life, but she thought it might be. Maybe it wasnt normal to endure the pain. Ariel, who was finally alone in the room at sunset, recalled the moment of the carriage ident. What happened to the girl? She prevented the carriage of the purple-haired girl from falling, but she could have also been hurt by magic. I wanted to know the news, but I didnt know who to ask. And the carriage was weird. The carriage was definitely being controlled by something. The coachmans eyes were clouded. I think it was done by magic. What was that? While Ariel was lost in thought, the window of the room swung open. Lucian came in with a flexible movement like a jaguar in the open window. I thought you were sleeping. Lucian, who stormed in at will, saidzily when he saw that Ariel was awake. The cool wind shook the curtains together. WaitHow did he open the window when it was locked inside? No, nevermind. Ariel decided not to care about Lucians actions. Even when they first met, there were many things about him that Ariel did not understand. I think its because, as Allen said, Lucians not an ordinary person. Whats more important to Ariel right now is that Lucian did not return to the academy immediately. He can go back immediately if he wanted, but Ariel thinks that hes staying because of her. I thought you went back in the Academy. Lucian frowned whenshe said that in a small voice. How far are you going to make me a viin? I was already upset to hear that my wife had copsed. It sounds like Lucian is worried about me. I dont want to see anyone touches whats mine. Of course. He doesnt want anyone to touch his property. Because Im a wizard owned by Lucian. But she didnt feel disappointed about that. Lucian and her rtionship had always been like that. Ariel looked at Lucian from the window where the sunset had fallen. Hes really beautiful Underneath his ck hair thats as ck as obsidian, a cold but beautiful face was situated. In order to give authority to the word beauty, the Creator seemed to have created him to test and create the highest level of beauty that humans can contain. Even the undeveloped facial lines, which are only revealed during the period between boys and men, stimted maternal instinct. The white skin without a speck blemish and his high nose reminded her of a marble statue. The red lips had a vicious color, and the long eyshes added to his arrogant and intimidating atmosphere. But the most beautiful thing It was his dark blue eyes. Lucians eyes contained some aura that humans could not resist. All who see his eyes will be tempted, destroyed, or frightened and run away. If you mix the deep ocean with the darkness of the abyss, will that colore out? You. Lucian suddenly opened his mouth. That scared me. Was I staring too intensely? Instead of releasing the magic ban, Ill give you another order. Ariel nervously swallowed her saliva. What order? Lucian stared at her. He looked angry for some reason. He brought his face close to Ariels face as if he were pressuring her. Dont try to involve yourself to anyone else again. Ah, he must be talking about saving the girl with purple hair. Youre the only one you need to know. Arie. He spoke arrogantly. It was amanding voice that makes you want to say yes in an obedient way. And all you need to know besides you is me. Because youre my husbandright? Lucian lowered his eyshes as if he were satisfied. Thats right, so dont worry about the other bugs, whether they die or not. He added sweetly enough to sound tempting. If you save someone again, I will kill you. Hmm? Wait a minute. Thats The boy, who whispered like a devil, raised his body and changed his expression. Another one. Ariel looked up at him, waiting for his following words. There was a tense atmosphere. Lucian, with his arms crossed, spoke in a feisty tone. Paper boat. Yes? Fold one for me. Huh? Why so sudden? Ariel tilted her head. Why does he want a paper boat all of a sudden? Whats Lucian thinking? Without any more time to think about it, he ordered her to start making one on the spot. Hurry up. She stopped trying to figure out Lucian. Ill fold it for you now. Pink. .yes? Yes. Ariel reached for a bunch of colored paper near the bed. A few days ago, she learned how to fold paper boats from gardener Woods so she folded a lot of them in excitement. The people of the mansion who saw it each received one. Mwoo, theres no way I can refuse to Lucian anyway. Hes also my husband. While Ariel whined internally and folded the paper boat, Lucian stood crookedly and watched her clumsy hands move. I dont know why I wanted that, but I had to. He was a person who always gets anything when he thought he would have it. But he had always had a stronger desire to break things than to have them. Here you go, Lucian. Finally, a pink paper boat folded by Ariel came into Lucians hand. Once it got in his hand, he suddenly got annoyed. From now on, paper boats are banned. What? Her eyes turned to him with the most unjust look. Oh, my God, I folded a paper boat and it got banned. Lucian proudly raised his chin and spoke. If you want to make it, make as much as you want. But you cant give it to anyone other than me. Ah Yes. Ariel was relieved to hear that folding itself was not forbidden. Looking at her, Lucian, who satisfied his desire to monopoly her, happily raised one corner of his mouth. Prince Lucian Desmond Lacartelsstay at the mansion was set for two weeks. He was originally given ten days off, except for the three days for when he passed the gate, but unlike other people, he was able to pass the gate in one day, and so his vacationsted two weeks. Thats Ariel was able to see what her husband was doing in the mansion for the first time. Unlike Ariel, who has a limit to walking on short legs, Lucians radius of action was very wide. Lucian didnt seem to be burdened by the enormous mansion even a bit. Ariel, who woke upte in the morning like any child, ate a warm soup in a bread bowl made from digging the inside of round bread and watched Lucian practice sword training at the training grounds. I couldnt go outside because I havent fully recovered yet. Susan put a small rocking chair and fluffy rug by the window for Ariel where the training grounds were well visible. Ariel sat there with both hands on her chin and looked at Lucian. Lucians ck long steel sword was made of bluish-colored steel. Ariel opened her eyes widely. Isnt that a royal iron? When she was in a group of wizards, she saw such steel used as an ingredient for magic potions. Unlike ordinary iron, which ismon in mines, blue-colored royal iron is a rare material, so it used to be traded in powder form. I had never imagined melting it into chunks and using it as a sword. Ive never thought that a person with that much wealth would exist on earth. But thats my husband Lucian was even using that sword for training. Training sword is a sword that young swordsman or knights need to rece when they grow up. It could be said that it was a temporary sword. How rich is the Grand Duke? She was curious at first, but I didnt want to know more and more. The more she knows, the more surprised shell get. Lucians training partner was a big knight Ariel saw for a while on the wedding day. Ariel squinted at him. Its the man who made Lucian drunk, isnt it? If we meet while passing by, I should give him a re. She narrowed her eyes as if practicing. By the way, isnt the size of his sparring partner toorge? Even though Lucian is the youngest Sword Master, isnt the weight difference too much? Even though he was taller than his peers, Lucian was only a 14-year-old boy. He has slender, with a beautiful face Wouldnt it be unfair if you put a sword together with a muscr adult man like that? However, Lucians expression was rxed, overshadowing Ariels worries. She could see the tip of his slightly sweaty bangs pping heavily. He took a light leap and struck the knights sword. *Kwaaang * As soon as the steel touched each other, mes erupted and a sharp noise was made. The knights foot, which was attacked by Lucian, was pushed behind. I dont think hes losing in terms of strength. Is it because hes the Sword Master? Ariel knew a lot about wizards, but she didnt know much about knights or swordmasters. Therefore, she did not think it was particrly strange to see Lucians power topletely ignore the difference in the strength of the human body. The twoswords shed and it seems that the big knight is pushed by the boy. Ariel stood close to the window with her eyes wide open. Its ck! THE PAPER BOAT BAN!!! thats adorable.AND HE WANTED PINK PAPER BOAT BECAUSE ARIEL GAVE MATHIUS A PINK ONE AHHHHHSKLDKSLDK Chapter 34 ck, its his sword mana. A noble mana that only obeys those who have reached a certain level of sword skill. The knights sword was surrounded by dark red mana. The fluttering image seemed to be burning. Lucians sword also emitted mana. It was not ck like his hair, but a dark blue like his eyes that gave a cold feeling. It stretched out in a shape that as sharp as an ice crystal. Sword mana is amazing Ariel approached the window to get a closer look. A more interesting thing happened when the mana-covered swords collided. The moment the two swords touched, a high-pitched sound was heard and a wave of air was pushed violently in the surrounding area. The momentum caused whirlwinds, that swept the soil and dust in the surrounding area and the grass and trees were torn apart. The sparring match was only a practice, but it felt like it waspletely real just now. Without realizing the time passed, Ariel stood by the window and watched the training. Swordsmanship naturally had the charm of stealing peoples attention. The battle ended with Lucians victory. A big knight grumbled. You almost killed me. Lucians attitude toward the knight was quite informal, unlike when dealing with others. Well, Lucian had a drink with him Ariel spected that the knight was probably close to Lucian. By the time Lucians sword practice was over, Ariel took a clean towel and walked often toward the entrance of the mansion. She saw Lucians hair soaked in sweat earlier thats why she thought itll be a good idea to prepare a towel for him. Im his wife so its okay I do this, right? She saw Lucian walking inside the front door. Ariel quickly approached him and held out a towel. Lucian. This. Lucian, who saw the towel in front of him, nced down at her. Is it because I just saw him use the sword? His eyes were overflowing with unsinkable violence. Like a wild beast? He smiled and twisted his lips. Are you trying to be a wife already? Uh But Lucian was the one who ordered me to do it. After receiving the towel, he roughly covered his head with it and reached out to Ariel. His thumb came up and swept Ariels mouth. Huh? A small piece of crumb fell from her mouth. Lucian said in a way that seemed to y with a kitten. You should take the crumbs out of your mouth first before you take a towel to me, kid. Ugh. Ariels face turned red. I tried to act like a wife as per the contract, but I waspletely treated like a child. How embarrassing. Lucian, who grinned at Ariel, wiped his sweaty hair dryly and disappeared into his room. Ariel went straight to the mirror and cleaned up the crumbs on her face. The butter cookies I ate while watching the practice were the source of trouble. When eating a butter cookie filled with sugar sprinkled and red raspberry jam in the middle, it was amon practice to get crumbs on the corners of the mouth when you didnt know it. I must have looked like a fool Ariel lowered her head. Then she heard Daltons voice from behind. Young madam. Yes? Looking back, Dalton answered politely, looking up his sses. The young madam has a visitor. A visitor? Yes. No way. What do you mean by a visitor? For me? The Grand Duke has given his permission. Will you meet the guest? Ah, if Sir Mathius allows it If its approved by Mathius, then Ariel did not have a reason not to meet them. No, maybe its someone I need to see? She nodded her head. Yes, Ill meet them in my room. Please send them up there. Ariel started wondering as she climbs the stairs. But whos the guest? Mathius, who has been hiding her from the outside world, has suddenly permitted her to meet someone. Thats why she was very curious about who it was. *knock**knock* Allen quietly reported that the guest has arrived outside the door. Come on in. Hiding her tension, Ariel greeted the guest as she sat still at the table like how she learned from Marchioness Lancel. The door opened gently and a stranger entered. Ah, you are Ariel recognized the stranger immediately. The person who came in paused when she saw Ariel, and then she greeted her, lifting the hem of the dress finely. Her hand lifting the dress was pale and trembling. Hello, Princess. My name is Diana Monica, the eldest daughter of Duke Monica. Ariels guest was the violet-haired noble girl she had saved in a carriage. Lady Diana was an esteemed daughter, who had slightly upturned eyes, giving off a fresh and proud impression. In fact, Diana was ady with very high self-esteem. Born as the daughter of a Duke, she was known for her beauty even though she was only 15 years old. In addition, the house of Monica was the only one of the three dukes who had a daughter of the princes age, so she grew up hearing that she will be the princes bride. Although she was not interested in the crown prince. However, her pride, which was so high, was horribly shattered when she faced a life-threatening event. Neither her fathers sincere love nor her status as a princess, or even his Majesty, who regarded her as a daughter-inw, saved her life. The one who saved Diana was the courage of a girl much younger than her. Diana heard from her father that the one who saved her was a youngdy and that she had fallen ill while saving her. Duke Monica asked Diana to take care of herself. For the time being, you should never be seen by the Prince and the Grand Duke. .father. No human who touched a Lacartel has been safe so far, even a member of the royal family faced some consequence before. Father will apologize and thank them. They saved you, and I willing to pay for anything. Duke Monicas voice was firm. Diana could see that her father was very determined. It was the one who held resentment to the Duke of Monica who drove Dianas carriage in an ident. That person has already quietly dealt with, but Monica had to properly apologize to the heavenly Grand Duke. It means that she was swept away by the fight of the Monica family and even injured someone from the Grand Dukes house. Diana was also familiar with the notoriety of the Grand Duke Lacartel. The Grand Duke was famous for making anyone who touches them pay the price. There have been so many cases in history, that the people of the Empire even started calling them Lacartel, the punisher. However, Diana, who has pride, could not hide behind her father. She personally wanted to thank the princess and ask for mercy. So she came here without her father knowing. For her, it was almost like risking her life. Come in. Of course, she thought shed be kicked out of the door, but Grand Duke Mathius let Diana into the house. The interior of the house was more luxurious than the imperial pce, which she frequented from time to time. And when she was escorted into the room of the Princess Diana was shocked by the appearance of a girl who looked only eight years old. Oh, my God. Shes too small! The princess she imagined was young, but she was a wizard with tremendous mana. But Ariel, whom she met in real life, was a very lovely little girl with shiny ruby-like hair. Despite her great surprise, Diana did not forget her purpose ining here. She greeted her by lifting the dress in the lowest position she ever did all her life. Her hands trembled with tension and fear. Hello, Princess. My name is Diana Monica, the eldest daughter of the Duke of Monica. Ariel was d to see Diana. She was curious about the girl she saved, but she came to see her personally. Ariel looked to see if Diana was hurt. My magic must have worked properly. Diana looked healthy without any injuries. Wait, shes the daughter of Duke Monica? Ariel was surprised inside. It was because it was the name of a family that she had heard of. Having not even made her social debut in the past, she did not know much about many noble families. But the only family she knew about was the house of Monica. Marquis Lucillion and the Duke of Monica were close. The two families were partners. The Marquis was very groveling to the Duke during his business with him. When Ariel escaped from the Marquis before, the one who saw her was the Duke and Duchess of Monica. And Ariel remembered. One of the faint memories of her past life. Diana Monica was dead. Come to think of it, it was around this time when that happened. The only daughter of Duke Monica suddenly dies in a carriage ident, and after her death, the duke and his wife went down to the estate in grief. I remember that the Marquis was quite annoying that time. Did Ichange it? At this time in the past, Ariel was still trapped in the cold attic. The fate of her and Dianas had nothing to do with each other. But its different now. She saved Dianas life. Ariel thought she had no power to change the future so far. There was no change in that idea even now. Thats because she didnt know anything about the outside world before she went back. She had no intention of intervening in anything other than changing her life. However, when she saw Diana alive in front of her, a calm wave hit my heart. Ive changed the lives of other people besides me. I saved a person who almost died. Its not because she saved a high-ranking noble. The joy she felt was because of saving the life of a young girl with a bright future. Nice to meet you, Diana. Ariel spoke in a different voice. But Dianas face turned red in front of her, and suddenly went on her knees at Ariels feet. Princess, please show mercy! I apologize on behalf of my family. Yes?! Ariel was surprised because of Diana, who suddenly kneeled in front of her. She tried to raise Diana, but Diana was helpless. I heard you got hurt saving me. Youre my benefactor. I have also grown up as a princess, so I know how difficult it is for the princess in a high position to sacrifice herself to save others. Thank you so much. If it werent for you, I would be dead! Chapter 35 Diana thought that if she begged her to show mercy to her family, Ariel would return the favor. You saved my life, so Ill pay for it. Please calm the wrath of the Grand Duke against our family. Ariel couldnt understand what Diana was saying. What does this all mean? What came to her mind at that moment was what Lucian said. Thats right, so dont worry about the other bugs, whether they die or not. If you save them, I will kill you. Did that mean anything? If Ariel, whos Lucians possession, gets hurt while saving others, he wont forgive her. Ariel became very embarrassed. She indeed belongs to Lucian until she bes an adult. But it was Ariels own will that she saved the girl in front of her. I didnt want others to pay for what I did. After thinking, Ariel opened her mouth. Diana. yes? Im the one who chose to save Diana. So Diana and the Monica family dont have to pay for it. But the Lacartel punishes The Lacartel punishes? Ariels ears perked up at what she heard for the first time, but she soon forgot about it. She held Dianas hand tightly with her fern-like hand. Sir Mathius and Lucian are good people. You dont have to be so scared. She knew the Lacartel mens mindset was quite rough, but Ariel had faith in Mathius and Lucian. Theyre not the ones who hurt people for no reason. But what Ariel didnt know is that the man of the Lacartel family used to hurt people easily without any reason. Diana of course did not believe Ariels words that the Lacartel are good people. Their negative reputation was just too high for that to be true. Looking at Dianas eyes, which are still full of fear, Ariel spoke with determination. Dont worry. I assure you. This is also my job. Only then did Diana feel a little relieved when Ariel said she thought it was her job. After the charity banquet, rumors have spread throughout the society that the Prince and the Grand Duke are obsessed with the new princess. So if Ariel came forward, it would be solved. P-princess. Diana who lost her usual arrogant attitude began to shed tears. In addition to saving her life, her feelings piled up when Ariel said she woulde forward for her own sake. Ill make sure to repay you for this favor. The prideful Diana just couldnt allow herself to get help. She vowed to repay this favor someday. Relieved, Diana showed tears in front of others for the first time. If the old Diana had seen it, she would have shouted, [Oh, my God! What a disgrace!] However, she was only a fifteen-year-old girl. Ariel, who started panicking when she saw Diana cry, pulled the strings to call the maid. Ariel knew that there was only one way to stop her from crying. Prepare us a snack. The sweetest and most delicious one! Sit down, Diana. Ariel urged Diana to sit on a pink sofa. On the table was arge strawberry cream cake topped with strawberries with whip cream and strawberry ck tea. There was an awkward silence between the two girls. .. . The teacups on thecy coasters did not even move. Ariel, who was looking at the steam rising from a teapot full of strawberry tea, finally decides to speak. Then Diana. Did you get hurt in the ident? Diana, who lowered her swollen eyes from crying, replied in surprise. No! Not at all. Your Grace. And the conversation was cut off again. Ariel spoke again while hiding her tears. Lets have some refreshments. The tea will cool down. Yes.? Yes. Diana felt very sorry for her shameful and udylike actions after crying. Her nervousness that she had been feeling from her visit disappears, and the only thing that remains is her red and swollen eyelids. How can I look like this in front of the princess! The much younger princess is so calm. In the meantime, Diana who already mastered the skills of drinking tea gracefully lifted her cup and mechanically swallowed the contents of it. Ariel opened her eyes in admiration of the sight. She, who has short arms and little fingers, has never drink tea so gracefully. She already lived up to seventeen years, however, Ariel knew nothing about the world of nobles. In her eyes, Diana seemed to be a very elegantdy. When Diana btedly realized that she had been rudely silent because of ming herself, she carefully brought it up. Thenyoure a wizard, arent you? Ariel nodded calmly. It was something she wanted to hide if possible, but since Diana had already experienced her magic herself, its better, to be honest. Thats right, but Im not very good at it. If the magic was perfect, I wouldnt have been hurt either. But you saved my life. If theres anything I can do for you, Id like to repay you. Ariel shook her head. I wasnt expecting anything. Still. I cant let it go, thank you. . Ariels eyes gleamed as she looked at Diana, who was impatient to do anything for her. She liked Diana. It must have been scary, but you came here yourself. She even said that she came here secretly. Just like her, who was abused. She needed the courage to escape from the prison called home. It must have taken great courage for Diana, who was loved at home, to disobey her parents. Thats how much she loves her family. I want to be close to her. Ariel, who never had close rtionships with girls of her age, had fantasies about the girls friendship. The people of the mansion hang out with her from time to time and Mathius ys around with her in his spare time, but she thought it would be nice to have some friends of her age. Ariel hesitated to speak. I dont have any friends. My brother was the only one I had. So Ariels face turned red. I hoped that my red hair would hide my face. Diana, would you be friends with me? Diana was dumbfounded as if she had been hit hard on the head. There were many things the princess could ask for. She could have asked her to be her connection to the high society, or she could have asked her to be like a fish. But she wants to be friends? Diana who grew up as a calcting and thorough aristocrat could not easily understand Ariel. Diana had no friends. She didnt need a friend. A loving family was enough for her. All the people outside her family were only either enemies or allies. She just hangs out with young people her age at social gatherings because of her reputation. She had never thought of them as friends. I didnt hesitate to say[friend]on the outside because thats part of my responsibility. Howeverhow can I do the same in front of this girl? In front of such a young and lovely girl who sincerely wants to be friends with her. Diana fell more and more in love with Ariels pure appearance, even though she could not easily understand her. She gave a vague answer, pressing down on her almost falling tears. If youre willing to ept me as a friend who is not good enough. Ariel smiled broadly. Wow, I finally have a friend, too! Were friends, so lets talkfortably, Diana. In the book, Ariel read that status is not important in friendships but they respect each other with their hearts. But Diana felt puzzled. Do you mind if I do that? My status is lower But Diana is more like ady. Youre five years older than me, so youre my older sister. Older sister! Diana screamed inwardly. Ariels cheerful face reminded her of her old desire. Diana, who was an only child, always wished she had a younger sister. But she gave up on her wish after she turned a little older. Does that mean Ill have a younger sister as well as a friend.? Dianas heart was moved by the pure friendship she encountered for the first time in her life, not just for appearance in high society. T-then.Arie. Ariel smiled broadly as Diana spoke carefully. Please, call me Ariel. Diana. The innocent and cute smile of Ariel melted Dianas heart. Although she looked arrogant on the outside, Diana was very weak at cute things. Her eyes, matching her purple hair, lit up. I really wanted to be an older sister. Lucian immediately visited Ariels room when he heard that Monicas worm came into his territory on its own.It would not be good if it disappeared immediately. Then he heard the sounding out of the room, making him stop on his tracks in front of the door. The chatter of 2 girls can be heard inside, clearly. It was like a conversation between best friends. Ha? How dare you be friends with the prey when Im here to kill it? He had to bring out the patience that he never shown before from the bottom of his soul. What the hell did I just told you? Lucian reached out to grab the doorknob right away. But before he could open itpletely, he heard clearughter from inside. It belonged to Ariel. damn it. Instead of going into the room and taking Dianas life, he turned around and went outside. *crash* The two girls, who were talking in the room, had to open their eyes widely because they were surprised by the sound of a stone breaking somewhere. Ariel, who was worried about of the carriage ident, smiled. It was done by a man who had a grudge against the Duke of Monica? Thats why they tried to hurt his only daughter, Diana She didnt feel rxed even though she knew the inside story. Just in case, she asked Diana about the situation at the time of the ident, but Diana, who was very scared at that time, seemed to only remember a little. Ariel decided to keep it in her mind for now. Fortunately, something happened. Friend? Mathius, who came to ask about Ariels physical condition, raised his eyebrows at the unexpected news. Yes, Lady Diana from the house of Duke Monica. Mathius looked at Ariel as if he didnt understand why she needed something like a friend. The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!