Chapter 19

Oath on a Winter Day

Winter in the Tearmoon Empire was cold. It often snows that fireplaces are in every home. Today was also a harsh day with snow.

“Uh, it’s cold...”

Anne was walking down the hallway. Her breaths leave faint puffs of white in the air. It was the last day of the year and it was the holidays. Outside, many (if not all) shops are closed. But in the castle, it was business as normal. Anne greeted her fellow maids as she passed them by. Finally, she arrived at Mia’s personal chamber.

“Excuse me, Mia-sama.”

“Ah, Anne. You’re here.” Seeing Anne, Mia put down her book and rose from her fireside chair. “You look very cold. Come over here and warm yourself up.”

With that said, she guided Anne to the side of the fireplace.

“Thank you, Mia-sama. This feels lovely.”

In the past, concerns over propriety and norms would have caused Anne to balk at such an offer. However she was reprimanded by Mia that her reservation was improper. So Anne just complied gratefully. In return, she made a solemn promise to herself that she would repay her master’s goodwill with loyalty.

Anne and Mia sat side by side near the fireplace in silence.

I wonder if she has grown taller...

A fond smile crept on Anne’s lips. She usually regarded Mia as her little sister.

“Say, Anne, I wonder if you have a moment...”

“Anne, listen to what I am saying. I said that I want you.”

“Oh! Mia-sama...”

Anne’s chest was filled with overflowing emotions. Mia had believed in her, offered her unconditional trust, kindness, and friendship. She had given her so much. It was a debt that should, and must be repaid. Moved to the core, Anne kneeled down right there and then.

“I will try my absolute best, Your Highness. I will serve you with all my heart and soul.”

Phew. I am glad I got that sorted.

Mia exhaled with relief.

At the school where Mia is heading now, two of her lifelong nemesis were waiting. An Outland noble who led the revolution against the empire, Tiona Rudolvon. And the prince of Sunkland who helped her, Sion Sol Sunkland.

These two people were directly connected to Mia’s fate with he guillotine, and it also happens that these two will be her schoolmates.

It will be a nightmare if I don’t have someone that I can completely trust.

For the time being, with the minimum condition of having a trustworthy attendant in place, Mia welcomed the New Year with a lighter heart.

Author’s Note

Tomorrow is Saturday, so I plan to post a little more (4 episodes at 9:00, 12:00, 15:00, and 21:00).

I hope you enjoy it.