CH 73

Chapter 73: And the confrontation with that person

Lars-sama and I were escorted to a separate room.

It was called a waiting room, but it was a room about the size of a small hall, and the walls were decorated with lacquered plaster and trimmed with gold foil.

The chandelier that was lowered from the ceiling was made of transparent glass and reflected the candlelight dazzlingly.

It was a very luxurious room.

A palace servant brought tea and took a small sip.

It was a fragrant, soft-tasting tea. It was slightly different from what I had at Lars-sama’s house, but I could tell that it was just as luxurious.

Is this from Azelus or Balmoor? In any case, I feel that they are not treating me roughly.

“Is it that Their Majesties consider me and my real father to be different things?”

I can’t help but ask.

“I don’t think they completely think badly of you, but I don’t think you should be too optimistic.”

It was Kvasir who made the stern comment. For some reason or other, he has a slightly severe way of looking at things.

“I can’t deny that… From what I heard when I talked to the royal chamberlain, it seems like they have the impression that this is part of some big conspiracy. That’s probably because Count Elvasti has such a big influence.”

I had a really bad impression.

I drop my shoulders.

That’s why I’m afraid of talking to the royal family now.

“As I experience things like this, I sometimes wonder if it was really good to hold you back.”

“What?”

I tilt my head at Lars-sama’s words.

“I was anxious about the judgment that you should flee far away. I was worried about the risk of being chased and the fact that you couldn’t realistically live on your own, so I forcibly took you in. But from now on, you will hear heartless words many times, and I am worried that you will be hurt each time.”

Lars-sama, who sat next to the sofa, stares at me intently.

“It’s better for you to move yourself to make allies. But if you break your heart, there’s nothing you can do. Until the time comes, you can quietly spend it in the mansion. What do you want to do?”

“Lars-sama…”

I think Lars-sama was worried about me, who continues to be told heartless things not only at the Academy but also at parties with the nobles.

I shook my head.

“It’s okay. I chose the plan that Lars-sama thought of. I just felt it was better that way. So please don’t feel responsible.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

Kvasir peeks in from the side.

“It’s a waste for all that effort to go to waste. Miss Linea looks pretty determined, so you should try running as far as you can.”

“I’m determined?”

I feel that way, but when I’m told directly I can’t put it into words.

Kvasir, who was told that, round their eyes.

“You didn’t think you were determined? It’s quite something.”

“I’m sorry for saying something rude again.”

Lars-sama gives a wry smile.

And just as our feelings were settling down, a third person entered the room.

“I heard cheerful voices. You three seem to get along well.”

“We have been waiting for you, Her Majesty the Queen, His Royal Highness the Prince.”

I and Lars-sama also stand up and bow.

Only two people came. As expected, His Majesty is busy and doesn’t seem to be coming out especially to talk to me. But it’s a relief that one person is less.

“You don’t have to be so formal. I’ll sit down too.”

Her Majesty Segara sits softly on the sofa on the opposite side and has the servant bring tea.

Meanwhile, Prince Conrad stood cautiously, not taking a seat.

“Please sit down, Conrad.”

Despite being beckoned by the queen, Prince Conrad made a disgusted face.

“I still don’t trust that girl.”

“Don’t act like a child. You’re already eighteen. You won’t be able to protect the country if you only express your honest thoughts.”

The queen sighed and said these reprimanding words, but she was a bit rude as well.

It’s as if the queen is saying that she also distrusts me.

I knew that the royal family disliked the Elvasti family, but I was surprised that it was so blatant. I was so surprised that I didn’t even feel shocked.

Then Lars bravely stepped in.

“Both of you are being rude. You’re ignoring my wishes, even though I’ve already approved of them. What kind of decision is that?”

His words were quite strong, and both the queen and Prince Conrad looked away like children being scolded by their parent.

“We understand, Lars. It’s not that we doubt your judgement, but there have been so many things that have happened up until now.”

“That shouldn’t be the daughter’s problem, it should be the father’s problem, right?”

“In this noble society, there is no way to think about the father and daughter separately. Sons and daughters are only pawns in politics.”

“You speak plainly, Your Highness Conrad.”

Smiling at Lars-sama, Conrad His Highness seems to shrink back in fear.

“Isn’t a beautiful appearance necessary? For me, for your Highness.”

“Y-Yes, that’s right.”

Conrad His Highness nods.

“Then please take a seat. To protect the appearance that you are a kind prince.”

“This…”

His Highness Conrad had a hateful expression at Lars-sama’s words, but ultimately sat on the sofa obediently.

Tea was brought in front of His Highness Conrad, who sat next to the queen, and the servant who served left the room.