FCHTIB Chapter 31

 31

Though it was spoken in a low voice, it was clear enough not to be mistaken.

Just as Railey was about to get up, she looked up and met Jennifer’s eyes.

The gaze clearly mocked her.

'She reminds me of Margaret.'

At the same time, a surge of indignation rose within her. She couldn’t just let this go.

Being considerate and treating someone nicely was something you only did when they deserved it.

She was no longer that timid, naive girl from the past…

She was now a guest who had been formally invited by the Lady of the Grand Duchy, as a member of House Elestine.

Railey slowly pushed herself up and said.

"Does the Count’s house of Laom not teach proper etiquette?"

"W-What did you say?"

"When someone falls, staring and sneering instead of offering a hand makes you look quite lowly."

Jennifer, who had been preparing to counter with something like "I didn’t trip you. Why are you accusing me?", was momentarily taken aback.

Railey was right, basic courtesy dictated that you at least pretend to ask if the other person was okay.

Face flushing red, Jennifer glared at her and muttered bitterly.

"I never said I wouldn’t help…"

She half-heartedly extended her hand, but Railey ignored it and calmly asked.

"So, you're admitting to mocking me?"

"W-What kind of nonsense is that?"

"Ah, I must’ve been hearing things, then."

Railey added with a tone as cool as ever, then stood up straight without any sign of distress.

Jennifer grew irritated by how things weren’t going her way.

A young girl like that should have either burst into tears or embarrassed herself by now under this kind of pressure.

Jennifer had intended to use that as an excuse to throw her out of the Grand Duke’s residence but Railey’s calm composure was throwing everything off.

Meanwhile, Railey kept her cool and analyzed the situation.

'For a mere maid from a count’s family to behave this arrogantly, she must have backing.'

Her manner of speaking and actions clearly weren’t a one-time thing.

And yet she remained in the position of a maid without issue, that could only mean someone powerful was behind her.

That’s why Railey didn’t press the matter by accusing Jennifer of tripping her outright.

"Hmph… follow me."

"Yes."

Jennifer huffed and began walking briskly ahead.

Her steps made no attempt to accommodate Railey, who had shorter legs and a smaller frame.

"Your Ladyship, the Lady of Elestine has arrived."

"Let her in."

"Yes, ma’am."

The Lady’s quarters were located in a remote wing on the northern side of the estate, an ominous sign from the start. Even the tea room where the gathering was held had a rather austere atmosphere.

To put it nicely, it was 'simple,' but in truth, it was hard to believe such a place belonged to a high-ranking noble.

At the center of the room sat Aidelica, looking indifferent.

"Railey of House Elestine greets the Lady of the Grand Duchy."

Railey gave a flawless and composed greeting, so perfect that not even the slightest fault could be found.

Her polished manner was like a quiet jab at Jennifer, who had earlier mocked her for supposedly lacking etiquette.

Jennifer, standing by her side, subtly ground her teeth in frustration.

"No need to be so stiff. Treat me comfortably, like a friend."

"You honor me with your words."

Then, Aidelica tilted her head slightly as she glanced between Railey and Jennifer.

"Did something happen on your way here? Your dress seems a bit disheveled, Lady Elestine."

Only then did Railey check her appearance, she hadn’t noticed it before, but one of the decorative ribbons had come undone.

Jennifer, as if waiting for this moment, whispered with faux concern.

"Oh my, forgive me for not noticing it earlier. Lady Elestine, you must apologize immediately. It is an unforgivable rudeness to appear before the Lady of the Grand Duchy in such a state."

"....."

Railey paused.

So that’s how you want to play this.

Then, slowly and gracefully, she bowed her head and said.

"I should have composed myself better. But I was nervous, and I stumbled on my way here. My deepest apologies."

Jennifer kept her face composed, trying not to give herself away.

Aidelica looked at Railey for a long moment before replying.

"I wasn’t pointing it out to criticize. I just wanted to make sure you weren’t hurt or troubled. Jennifer, there’s no need to demand an apology over something so minor."

Jennifer pouted in protest.

"I was only thinking of Your Ladyship’s dignity! We can’t allow anyone to treat the Grand Duke’s daughter lightly!"

"I understand your intentions." 

Aidelica replied half-heartedly, waving her hand dismissively.

"But now, I’d like to speak privately with Lady Elestine. You may step out."

"Surely, I should stay and assist you, Your Ladyship!"

"That’s an order. My mother isn’t feeling well today. Go check in on her on my behalf."

"....."

At the word "order", Jennifer’s face soured, but she bowed reluctantly and left the tea room.

As soon as she was gone, Aidelica, who had remained expressionless until now, softly smiled for the first time.

"Thank you for coming."

"Not at all. I’m honored to be invited."

"Please, have a seat. You must be thirsty, try something to drink."

"Yes, thank you."

As Railey lifted her teacup, Aidelica began jotting something down with a pen.

Noticing Railey’s puzzled look, Aidelica handed her a sheet of paper and a pen.

[This place might be bugged. Please be very cautious with what you say and do.]

Railey let out a short sigh.

She had suspected it, but now it was clear, Aidelica’s situation was even more precarious than she had imagined.

[Then… what if we finish our tea and move to the garden? You're not carrying any magical surveillance devices, are you?]

[No, the outside should be safe. I was just about to suggest that. You really are clever.]

With a satisfied expression, Aidelica spoke aloud.

"The weather is lovely today. If you’re up for it, I’d like to show you the rear garden."

"I’d be delighted to see it, thank you."

After politely finishing their tea, the two of them headed toward the garden.

***

Jennifer, now fuming, walked briskly toward the southern wing where the Grand Duchess resided.

'How dare they treat me like that?'

After the Grand Duke fell ill and became unconscious, the Grand Duchess had taken charge of all affairs in the territory.

Her authority technically stemmed from her daughter, Aidelica. But in truth, Aidelica was merely a puppet.

The real ruler of the Grand Duchy was the Grand Duchess herself.

And Jennifer’s mother, the Countess of Laom, was the Grand Duchess’s closest confidante.

As the daughter of the influential figure, Jennifer was entrusted with an important role.

She was to stay close to the Grand Duchess’s daughter and monitor her, ensuring she didn't do anything reckless or step out of line.

"Make the Lady trust only you. Make her believe your word above all others."

That was her mother’s instruction. Jennifer thought this mission was quite simple.

Aidelica had always been obedient and timid, and she would immediately fall in line if you even hinted at the Grand Duchess’s name.

Even the noble ladies who occasionally interacted with her were always eager to please Jennifer.

After all, anyone with any sense would know who held the real power now.

Occasionally, someone clueless would show up but Jennifer would swiftly "correct" them and make it clear who they should be appeasing.

As a result, Aidelica’s social circle had grown very limited over time.

Jennifer was brimming with confidence, convinced she had total control over Aidelica.

And yet... out of nowhere, this low-born girl had been invited and Jennifer herself had been dismissed.

'Just wait. I’ll make her regret this…'

But as she walked, a strange sense of unease crept in.

The surroundings had gone eerily quiet.

Even the natural sounds, like the wind rustling or distant footsteps, were gone, as if the world itself had gone still.

Just as she realized how unnatural it was.

Something unexpected appeared in front of her.

It was a small black creature, looking almost like a puppy.

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