Chapter 101 - Return Date

Chapter 101: Return Date

On that night, we had a casual dinner with the royal family per the Queen's wishes. Although, Bart and his crew were thoughtful and didn't attend, so it was only a small group made out of the Albans, Lisburns and the royal family. Alistair was nervous, but an infant doesn't know their own status, so I wasn't nervous. I watched Alistair in shock as I ate the delicious food.

"Even so, it's a pity the both of you came all the way, but it's still impossible to use the barrier box in the long run." It was Prince Gilbert who had said this. He and Huu had a lot of magic, so they idealistically wanted to activate the barrier box so it would cover the whole town.

"I haven't given up yet, But, if we operate it like a tightrope, then the royal family will be exhausted, and the country will weaken."

"I'm glad you've noticed that. I don't think it's a good thing to always keep the barrier up." Gill answered quietly. Does that mean it was okay for Alistair not to come to Sebel after all? I looked at Alistair. He smiled a bit wryly.

"As for Alistair, he will be known as a Lisburn no matter where he goes. You need to prepare yourself and live with that name." Gill said while looking at Alistair. Alistair looked a little sullen, but he still nodded. I think we had a good discussion since we were all in the same room.

"No acthivathe bawwier?"

"It's okay to activate it sometimes, but it's hard to keep it up every day," Prince Gilbert answered seriously. He had children of his own, so he was used to dealing with children. His two children were also eating with us, and they have been looking at me with sparkling eyes since a while ago. Two boys, age three and five.

It seems like Alistair, and I will be building blocks with the tiny children later. Or will I be taken away by the Queen to become a dress-up doll...? I looked off into the distance.

So it's difficult to maintain the barrier every day? I thought while chewing my food. Why do they have to keep it up every day?

"Ish ith bad noth tho have ith shomethimesh?" (Is it bad not to have it sometimes?)

"People will probably be confused if the barrier is only up sometimes."

It seemed that my question was surprising since it took a while for me to get an answer.

"You can puth ith up on howidaysh."

"Howidaysh? Oh, holidays?" Prince Huu rephrased. I recalled when I was kidnapped, the town was lively at night, and something smelled delicious.

"Decide on a howiday and acthivathe thhe barrier. Puth outh a woth of shthawwsh and dewicioush food." (Decide on a holiday and activate the barrier. Put out a lot of stalls and delicious food)

Isn't it alright for them to go out a few nights a month?

"So, you're saying we should open a market at night? Decide on a day, three or six times a month. In that case, we can do it with just the royal family's magic."

Prince Gilbert, who was surprised by my words, looked at Huu and nodded. Isn't that fine? More importantly, I looked at the fragrant pink dish that had been brought out a while ago. This must be the dessert.

"I wondered how lucky it was for a baby to survive in Frontier, but it seems like she hadn't survived just based on luck. Luke-dono, it seems like the Albans have a hard to obtain treasure."

"Yes, indeed."

They were talking about something, but I was only interested in dessert.

"Niini wanth thhath."

"That apricot?"

"Ai."

Nii-sama went to get me some. The sweet smelling dish was softly boiled fruits. I scooped it with my spoon and put it in my mouth.

"Yummy."

"Really? That's good."

I don't care if they open a market or whatever in Wester. No, I'll be visiting Sebel from now on. Wouldn't it be fun if a market opened up here?

I looked at Nii-sama with sparkling eyes.

"Niini, shthawwsh." (Nini, stalls.)

"No. It's absurd for you to go out at night until you grow up."

"Ai."

I held my spoon as I hung my head down. If they were to open a market, then it would be thanks to me. But wait? What if Nii-sama went with me? I looked up at Nii-sama in anticipation.

"Uoah. You can't go even if you look at me with those eyes. You should be aware of how easy it is for you to be kidnapped."

"Aai."

That may be true. Well, I'm sure there are other things to look forward to when I become an adult. I extended my spoon for the rest of the dessert. "That was close," I felt he had said, but there's no need to listen to it if he doesn't take me.

Just as I thought, we played with the children until it was nearly bedtime, but I, as Amy's friend, didn't have any blind spots. Including Nii-sama, the children had a lot of fun playing.

I slept together with Nii-sama in the room, and the morning of our return came. We got ready, greeted everyone, and paraded through town as if it was custom.

Bart and his crew will accompany us until the border.

Bart held me until we left town, and I waved at the people with Nii-sama and Gill. Anything goes. Let's raise the popularity of the Four Marquises before leaving. Though, my face felt like it was going to twitch from smiling.

We finally got out of town and had a break. The important part starts now. Guards and an imperial carriage were waiting for us outside of town.

"Lei, are you alright?"

"Ai."

I had Bart put me down in front of the carriage.

"Now then, it's alright for you to come out," Nii-sama said, and the person who came out of the carriage was...

"Sebash!"

"Lei-sama!"

His hair wasn't tied up, and he wasn't wearing his uniform. He had gotten a little tanner, and he might have more white hair on his head. Still, the gentle smile that was on his face was certainly Sebas's.

I reached out, and Sebas lifted me up.

"Oh, you've gotten heavier. Lei-sama, you're growing big and well."

"As expected of Claire-sama's child. I'm sure you'll be bright and treated with great care no matter where you go. Sebas wasn't worried in the slightest."

"Ai! Lei awwaysh hash fun."

Sebas gently teased me as he held me.

How long did we spend being affectionate?

"Lei-sama."

"Ai."

"Hannah's family..."

I looked at Sebas's face in surprise. He looked at the carriage.

"Will you meet them?"

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 102 - If You Don't Give Up...

Chapter 102: If You Don't Give Up...

"No way! Sebas! You brought them here?! Foolish!" Nii-sama said as if he was criticising him, and looked towards the carriage with an intense gaze.

"Niini, eyesh."

I stopped Nii-sama.

"But, Lei..."

"Niini, Lei wiww thawe care of Lei'sh maththers." (Niini, Lei will take care of Lei's matters)

"Lei."

Nii-sama tightly clenched his fist and tightened his lips.

"Sebash down."

Sebas put me down and called out to the carriage. Then, a woman younger than Sebas and a boy younger but larger than Nii-sama descended timidly from the carriage. They looked at me in surprise and lowered their heads. The boy had his lips tight together, and he bowed his head silently.

Those two are Hannah's mother and brother.

I searched through the pocket of my Rug Dragon. I hope that it didn't break when I hit the yellow-eyed Prince. Here it is.

I took out a thin gold necklace, approached the mother, who still had her head down, put it on my hand, and gently held it out.

"I, I bought this for Hannah..."

"Hannah threashured ith."

The mother reached her trembling hands towards the necklace. I let her take it.

"Hannah noth here anymore. Lei'sh fauwth. Sorry."

"Ojou-sama, no, it's not. Hannah was the one who took you. And yet, and still, you came back. Hannah, Hannah is..."

The boy held his mother's stumped shoulders firmly and looked at me. If Hannah hadn't been my maid, then she wouldn't have committed a crime. However, I didn't look down. I lived with this burden. I nodded without saying anything and turned my back towards them.

"Sebash come bacw withh ush."

"I can't go back to Kingdom anymore. I will live here."

I know. But, I couldn't help but ask. Sebas's quiet eyes told me he had no regrets.

"Then, Lei wiww vishith you."

"Really? Then Sebas is looking forward to that."

"Ai. Lei wiww come withh Niini."

"You're going to take me with you after all?" Niini laughed in resignation and his tension faded away.

I hugged Sebas's legs and gently let go after I got him to pat my back. I won't cry anymore.

"Lei wiww vishith." I said once more and turned my back away from Sebas.

"Lei-sama. Take care."

"Ai. Sebash thoo," I replied, and walked away without turning around. Well, I actually only walked a few steps, but the people, who usually teased me, didn't say anything and I was put into the basket.

"You did well," Clyde whispered softly as he closed the basket. At least I'm still alive. I can't sob in front of Hannah's mother.

I didn't know that while seeing us off, Hannah's brother muttered, "She's such a good kid. Who am I supposed to hate?" or that Sebas had replied, "It's wrong to hate Lei-sama. The ones to blame are the bad guys. The past won't return even if you grieve, and you won't have a future."

The border was actually really close to Sebel. We had lunch and will enter Kingdom in the afternoon.

The autumn prairie is fun, but my heart shook with mixed feelings.

I want to get home quickly. But, I don't want to separate from everyone. I want to go back. But...

I should have made up my mind, but it shook and was unsettled just like the withered grass that was blowing in the prairie. The Rug Dragons also must have felt this, because they were restless.

In the midst of this, Bart brought his dragon near my basket.

"Luke-san and Lei, that's probably the border. There's a group there."

Bart is a hunter. His eyes are better than anyone's. The guards, who hadn't noticed, made a fuss. Nii-sama looked at Gill, who nodded and asked Bart, "Bart, how many are there?"

"Less than we have."

"Then, let's watch and approach slowly."

That's what we will do. We nervously proceeded slowly.

"That's... A person is wearing the same white clothes as Luke. And the people wearing black clothes around him look like guards."

"What did you say?! Don't tell me..."

Nii-sama looked at Gill again. Gill also looked at Nii-sama as if he was shocked.

"Just how much did he push himself? He definitely rushed the dragon here. The guards also always have a hard time. Honestly."

"Niini, who?"

"Lei, it's probably Otou-sama."

"Otou-syama!"

No way! He came to pick me up even though he didn't know when we would return?

"Then, we can go quicker."

We, who were moving at a slow speed, quickened our pace. The group finally came into my view before long.

There was a person who looked nonchalant as if he were at home even though he was in a prairie blown by the wind.

"Seriously? What the heck, he's sitting in a chair relaxing with his legs crossed," Bart couldn't help but utter because Otou-sama looked so relaxed. His long hair was tied in a ponytail like always. His hair was tied so tightly that even the wind in the prairie couldn't move it.

"Otou-syama~."

"Kyee."

My voice echoed in the prairie. Otou-sama smiled a little as he remained seated. The dragon didn't need to reply.

"The guards are likely the Albans private guards. Honestly, when it comes to Otou-sama..." Nii-sama shook his head in amazement. Our group stopped a little before Otou-sama's. Apparently, this was the border.

"Down."

"Alright."

Nii-sama gave me permission to get off, and I was taken out of the basket. It would actually be faster and safer if I crossed the border in the basket. But, I wanted to see Otou-sama without being in the basket. Clyde put me down, and I looked forward. Otou-sama was still sitting on the chair.

Honestly. Otou-sama is always like this. He's actually troubled because he doesn't know what to do.

I walked briskly. Otou-sama.

"Lei!" Alistair's voice made me stop. Alistair. Bart and everyone. I turned around.

"Lei." This time it was Otou-sama. I stopped, and couldn't move in either direction. What should I do?

"You're stupid, Lei. I didn't want to confuse you. Here, this."

Alistair ran to my side. He crouched down and looked me in the eyes. He held my hand and gave me something.

"Whishthwe..."

"You like it, don't you? There are no more annoying princes who will tell you to stop blowing. Take it with you."

"Ai."

I put it into the pocket of my Rug Dragon.

"I'll come visit you."

"Ai."

"Take care."

"Ai! You thoo, Awishthair."

"Us too."

"Barth. Miww. Kyaro. Cwyde."

Everyone came up to me before I noticed.

"We'll see you off, so go."

"Ai! I'm off."

Everyone saw me off with smiles, and I turned towards Otou-sama. I moved forward briskly.

"Ah, she's still tottering."

"Noth thoththering!"

"Oh, yes, briskly. You're walking briskly."

That's fine.

*KEE* I continued walking briskly even as the invisible barrier echoed through my body. Then, I stopped.

"Otou-syama."

I reached my hands out. I thought Otou-sama wouldn't get up, but he quickly did and picked me up.

"Lei! Welcome back."

"Ai. I'm bacw."

I smell Otou-sama.

"Now, let's go home."

"Yes."

Otou-sama turned around and began walking. Everyone was dumbfounded. The guards weren't moving.

"Eh, eh, greeth everyone."

"You don't need to. We're heading straight back."

"Otou-syama."

"What?"

Otou-sama finally stopped.

"Lei won'th dishappear."

"You did, didn't you? You left father," Otou-sama said childishly.

"Lei won'th dishappear again."

"Really?"

I definitely won't disappear again since I decided this myself.

"Ai."

"Lei!"

Otou-sama finally hugged me tightly.

"Otou-sama, even I'm amazed."

"Luke, but..."

"No buts. These people saved Lei. Thank them properly, and then we'll go home."

"Fine."

What's fine? Otou-sama walked back to the border under everyone's amazed gaze and stared at Bart and Alistair, who were dumbfounded.

"Amazing. It's such a spectacle to see three Albans at the same time." Mill's light-hearted voice resounded. I laughed weirdly. That made everyone calm down.

"Hunters, thank you for helping my daughter. Come visit the royal capital. The Albans will always welcome you." That was all Otou-sama said before he turned away from everyone without hearing their reply.

"This is the Four Marquises." That was probably Kyaro. He sounded shocked and impressed.

"No, that's just an Albans. Or should I say, that's Dean-dono."

I didn't miss the fact that one of the guards had muttered this.

He's selfish, but this is Otou-sama. I felt relieved and put my head on Otou-sama's chest. My long journey ends here. I rummaged around the pocket and took out my whistle.

"What's this?"

"Whishthwe. Fun."

"It's fun? Then, that's fine."

I blew the whistle.

"Puu."

"Kyee."

"Puu, puu."

"Kyee, kyee."

The Rug Dragons cried out in reply from close by and far away.

"Puu."

"Kyee."

It was painful.

"Puu, puu."

"Kyee, kyee."

It was fun.

"Puu."

"Kyee."

As long as I don't give up...

"Puu, puu."

"Kyee, kyee."

I'm sure we'll meet again.

"Now, let's go home."

"Ai!"

Let's go home now.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 103 - Otou-sama, I and...

Chapter 103: Otou-sama, I and...

"Lei, come on. Ahh."

"A, aah."

"Otou-sama, there's too much on that spoon for Lei. Scoop a little less so it would fit in her small mouth."

"I, I see."

Otou-sama awkwardly fixed the mashed potatoes. Next to him, Nii-sama fed me a spoonful of potatoes. Otou-sama watched and also tried to feed me, but I was already at my limit.

"Here, Lei. I've got it this time."

"Don'th need pothathoesh anymore."

"What?!"

Is it that disappointing not to feed a child? Otou-sama has been acting like this since the first night of my return.

Perhaps because it took so long to leave town on the first night since we stayed in an inn near the border and had dinner.

"Not just the feudal lord, but even a Four Marquis!" The inn owner nearly tumbled down, but it was an inn located between the fief and the royal capital. He immediately prepared a few rooms for us. However, food was served at the dining hall, so everyone ate together there.

"Luke, I have to leave Lei and get back to the royal capital soon. You can leave this to me, can't you?"

"When I get back to the royal capital, I have to stay in the dorms every day except for weekends. Otou-sama, you'll always get to eat with Lei, right?"

"But, I came all the way to Frontier."

"Honestly. You must have troubled the guards again," Nii-sama said in amazement, and looked at the guards. Does Otou-sama travel that much? When I looked at the guards, most of them were smiling wryly like they were used to this, but I was curious about why they drew back their smiles and looked nervous when they noticed my gaze. Why? I'm just a cute baby.

I had fruits for dessert and finally finished eating. I couldn't help but think that it would have been nice if Dory had been here. I'm sure she'd say, "Lei-sama can eat by herself."

"At any rate, it's spectacular to see all three of them together," Earl Tucker couldn't seem to hold back his admiration. Actually, this person was with us at the capital the whole time, but his presence was thin because other people were around. Having said that, I don't know how remarkable he is.

Even so, Nii-sama and Otou-sama certainly look alike, but what about me? Otou-sama and Nii-sama were sitting side-by-side, and I was sitting on Otou-sama's hard knees.

"You all look alike, but it's rare to see three of the Four Marquis colours together. The Four Marquises hardly leave the royal capital after all."

I looked around and saw that the inn owner had put his hands together towards us, and the female servers were looking at Otou-sama and Gill in admiration. Nii-sama is also amazing, but he doesn't seem to be targeted by the servers, so I was a little relieved.

"Frontier is just around the corner. We're at the edge of the barrier, so I know how hard it is in Frontier. If the Four Marquises who maintain the barrier are here, then, of course, they would long for them and appreciate them." Earl Tucker nodded on his own. Come to think of it, people can't enjoy food outside at night since they have to quickly rush back to their homes. Moreover, it's unbelievable for women to work at an inn like this at night.

"Weshther ath nighth, aduwthsh and chiwdren don'th go outh." (Wester at night, adults and children don't go out.)

"Some women have to work because of certain circumstances. It's a blessing to be able to work at night, Leila-sama."

"Ai," I frankly agreed with Earl Tucker.

"Now, Lei, rest with Otou-sama tonight."

"Ai."

"Of course, me too."

"Ai."

It looks like we'll be sleeping in the same room. When we tried to withdraw to our room, the guards also left their seats.

"You can keep on drinking," Otou-sama said without turning around.

"No, we're in the middle of work," the representative refused. Otou-sama had his back turned, so I, who was being held, could clearly see the guards. That person, who looked sincere and stubborn, distorted his face as if he was slightly apologetic when his eyes met mine.

"Mm, I would like to apologise to Ojou-sama, to Leila-sama."

"You don't need to," Otou-sama easily discarded the guard's words. He said he had to apologise, but I don't know these people. What is he on about?

"However, my mistake led Leila-sama to live in Frontier for six months."

I widened my eyes. He's one of the guards who was with Otou-sama when I got separated from him. He hit Otou-sama's Rug Dragon, and Otou-sama fell down. I muttered, "Otou-syama, feww from dragon."

"You remember?! Oh my god."

He said he wanted to apologise, but it doesn't matter. He was probably just looking for a place to dump his feelings. He was shocked when he found out that I remembered.

"Graces," Otou-sama quietly called that person's name without turning back.

"If you find yourself in that situation again, would you make a different decision?"

"... No, no matter how many times I find myself in that situation, I will make the same decision."

"If so, then go through with that decision. What's the point of apologising just to clear your conscious?"

The man named Graces looked down.

I understand now. At that time, the Rug Dragons had already recognised me as part of their group and saw me as someone they had to protect. Therefore, he saw the Rug Dragons with Otou-sama and the guards as enemies and sped up to protect me. They couldn't have anticipated this.

Even if that was all, Otou-sama probably still grieved. And when he saw our group today, he knew how big the person he had lost was, and couldn't bear with his feelings of guilt.

If this person had stopped our Rug Dragon, Hannah might not have died, and I might have been able to get back to Otou-sama right away.

But don't get me wrong. It wasn't this person's fault that I got kidnapped.

"Gracesh," I called, surprising Otou-sama and Graces lifted his face.

"Chu did nothhing wrong."

That's all there is to it.

"Otou-syama, importhanth. Lei wnowsh."

I nodded at Graces. Otou-sama sighed inconspicuously and put me down. Graces kneeled before me. The guards behind him kneeled down as well.

Graces gently took my hand and pressed it against his forehead. It's somewhat embarrassing.

"Leila-sama, we will also protect you from now on."

"Ai. Pweashe." I nearly told him that I would leave it to him, but was able to respond properly.

"That's enough, right? How long are you going to hold her hand for?"

Otou-sama picked me up from behind. He went up the stairs without looking back, and Nii-sama followed after him.

"She's still part of the Four Marquises even though she's small. Amazing."

"Even people in Sebel don't think that she survived in Frontier by chance, she's a magnificent baby. Most importantly, she's that cute."

"I know, right?"

She had no choice. Her body is small, she got kidnapped and was forced to live in Frontier. Just how fascinating is an Albans?

We, on the second floor, didn't know Graces's thoughts. Even if we knew, we probably would have pretended that we didn't. Because it's troublesome.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 104 - Pretend it Didn't Happen

Chapter 104: Pretend it Didn't Happen

"I had them prepare a family room in the inn," Otou-sama boasted when we got into the room.

"Even so, it's small. Well, inns are the same everywhere," he said and nodded in satisfaction. The room had two double beds, one sofa that could probably become a bed, and a small table and chair in front of the sofa.

"Then, Lei and I will sleep on this bed."

"What are you saying? Lei will sleep with me."

"Otou-sama, you've never slept with Lei before, have you? I've already slept with Lei for two nights, so I'm used to it."

"You should let her sleep with me since you've slept with her for two nights."

They had a fruitless argument, as always. It might be small, but we can, "Everyone shweep thogethher."

"Well, that's fine."

"Are you sure, Otou-sama?"

Nii-sama was amazed.

"What? People do sleep on the ground, don't they?"

"That's right."

Hannah was still here at that time, and so was Sebas. No one said anything, but all three of us thought this.

We got ready for bed and rolled into bed. Sleeping next to each other like this was natural, and there was nothing to talk about.

"Come to think of it, I want to talk about this first."

"What is it, Luke?"

Nii-sama and Otou-sama were talking with me in between them. Sleepy.

"Lei can make a barrier."

"Barrier," Otou-sama repeated as he looked at the ceiling.

"You mean like the barrier box?"

"Yes."

"Without magic stones?"

"Yes."

"Hmm."

Otou-sama turned over to face me in the middle.

"Lei, I want to see it."

"Eh..."

It's late at night. Annoying. Even if you look at me with those sparkling eyes...

"Niini can do. Niini do."

Nii-sama can do it, can't he?

"What? Luke, you can do it too?"

"Yes, I can do it after Lei showed me how."

"Then..." Otou-sama got up vigorously.

"I should be able to do it."

I thought it would turn out like this.

"Lei, I'm not sure since I've only done it once."

"Eh..."

It can't be helped if Nii-sama says that. I had no choice but to get up even though I was half-asleep. I rubbed my eyes.

"Then, I'll hold Lei."

"She can't make a barrier if you hold her."

"Really? Fine."

I can still make a barrier even if I'm held, you know?

"Mawe shmaww barrier," I declared and slowly altered my magic so Otou-sama could understand. I made a small barrier that could fit three people.

"I see. This is the same as the barrier produced by barrier boxes."

Otou-sama raised the edge of his mouth slightly and began manipulating his magic. Nii-sama was able to make the barrier quickly, but Otou-sama tilted his head when he was nearly there.

"Niini made ith shthraighth away," I reflected on what I had blurted out.

"Then, Luke. Show me," Otou-sama said with his eyes narrowed. He looks a little cute.

"Then, Lei will you cancel your barrier?"

"Ai."

I cancelled my barrier. Because it seemed like there would be a big fuss like two days ago. Now that I think about it, I feel like it wouldn't vibrate much even if I make a barrier in Kingdom.

"Then, here I go."

Nii-sama quickly made a barrier. A genius?

"I see. Luke's barrier looks more familiar. Is it because you referenced the latest barrier box? I see I've learnt it."

I was offended. Alistair's barrier box is certainly old. When I looked at Nii-sama's barrier like this, I can tell that the magic quality is refined, even if I try to imitate it. I reached out and put my hand out of the barrier. It's just a little different. Just like how some teas were bitter and some weren't.

"Then, magic wiwe thhish."

When you take away the bitterness, it's refreshing.

"Like this?"

"Thhish."

Our voices overlapped, """Aah."""

*KEE* The barrier, with a high vibration, instantly spread wider. We carelessly overlapped our barriers. However, unlike the barrier in Wester, it was faint like water pouring over water and swaying on the surface.

"Pull your magic back!"

"Yes."

"Ai."

Otou-sama and I, who were surprised by Nii-sama's voice, deactivated the barriers at once.

"Lei, do you know how far the barrier will go?"

"Yesh."

I feel like a thin barrier will probably reach Sebel.

"Barriers made by humans also resonate?"

Otou-sama was the most shocked. It's no wonder. We're used to it because this was the second time.

"At least, if it happened twice, then they won't doubt us anymore because we're not there."

"Nii-syama, shmarth"

I clapped my hands, and Nii-sama smiled as if he was shy.

"Luke and Lei, the second time means that you've done this once before?

Dammit. Otou-sama found out. We looked away a little.

"Tell me that beforehand. Jeez."

Otou-sama lifted me up and put me on his lap.

"Sowwy."

"Sorry."

We apologised. Otou-sama sighed loudly.

"Well, whatever. We'll pretend it didn't happen."

"Yup."

"Ai."

We put it out of our minds and laid down on the bed again.

"Well, I can't say it's strange," Otou-sama said something difficult to understand.

"What do you mean?"

Nii-sama, that's a good question.

"A magic artisan's job is to alter the stone slates. Few artisans can make barrier boxes, and they have magic to make barriers. But still..."

Otou-sama turned towards us.

"They wouldn't think of activating a barrier within Kingdom's barrier. It hadn't happened until Lei ended up in Wester and was forced to make one."

I only made it because it was interesting, but I couldn't tell them that I wasn't forced to make one. Well, there would be trouble if I have to activate a barrier from now on.

"Let's quickly head back to the mansion in the royal capital."

"Ai."

I'll enjoy a slow baby life this time in the mansion at the royal capital. The next day, however, Gill and Jude seemed to have guessed what we were up to and were very angry.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 105 - What Should I Do?

Chapter 105: What Should I Do?

I looked out at the garden from the mansion window. The wintry desolate garden still had some dark evergreen trees and a few small year round flowers. There was a greenhouse to the east of the garden, that had flowers blooming inside, but no flowers decorated the mansion during the year.

"Nii-syama. noth here yeth?"

It's nearly time to pick him up. Tomorrow is the start of the weekend, so Nii-sama will return from the dorm. I decided to go to the entrance.

"Leila-sama, where are you going?"

"Wewcome Nii-syama."

"It's still too early."

I froze instantly. This person is my newly attached maid since I returned to the mansion; her name is Natalie. She wasn't a person from our mansion and was introduced by the Remington House. I wonder if she's in her late twenties. Apparently, she had lost her husband early and chose to become independent.

The Remington House introduced her to my House because of what had happened with Hannah, to deny that they had any involvement in the incident, and to show that the relationship between the Remingtons and Albans wasn't bad. She took care of their youngest daughter and understood how to raise a noble child.

But, if this were Hannah, then she would say, "I don't think he's back yet, but do you want to go and see?" She always knew what I wanted and accompanied me. I sighed because I hadn't noticed this.

"Buth, I shthiww wanth tho go," I said and headed to the door. Natalie opened the door without saying anything in particular.

When I went out of the room, a large man was standing there. On his waist was a sword, no a Rhodolite sword.

"Leila-sama, where are you going?"

"The enthrance."

"Understood," he said and followed the two of us. I sighed again as if I didn't notice.

When I returned home, a lot of things had changed. No, not a lot. It was when all the servants were gathered at the entrance to welcome me back, and I tried to go to the second floor. The stairs that I climbed with Otou-sama were the same, but Otou-sama stopped me when I tried to go east.

"Lei, the room you've been staying in now has a large balcony, so it's dangerous. I prepared a new room for you next to mine in the west wing, so that will be your room from now on. Luke's room is nearby too."

"Ai!" I replied cheerfully, and the room I was taken to was a cute light pink room which was a bit bigger than my old one. A big bed used by adults, and a small, low one was placed to the right of the room.

"There are stairs so you can get on and off easily. I made it bigger because I'll also sleep with you."

"A-ai."

Well, this much is okay for a Four Marquis House.

"You'll be having breakfast and dinner with Otou-sama from now on, so make sure to get up early."

"Ai. I wowe up properwy in Weshther."

I got up properly and went to work. Though, I was only building blocks at the place where Alistair and Bart worked.

"I see," that was all Otou-sama said. Then, he explained the room and put me down. Apparently, he doesn't want to hear much about Wester. By the way, he's been holding me ever since I came back.

"I also gave you an exclusive maid and guard. The guards will alternate between a few people, but you only have one main maid. You'll probably remember them all straight away."

"Guard?"

I understand giving me a maid, but why a guard?

"We haven't caught the people who kidnapped you. I also heard that you were kidnapped in Wester. I don't think you would get kidnapped again from the mansion, but I decided that it would be alright for you to have a guard until you get a little bigger."

"Eh, umm."

"You don't want them?"

"Annoying."

Otou-sama laughed.

"The hunters could guard you in Wester, but it isn't the same here. They won't get in your way, so can you put up with it for my peace of mind?"

"Ai..."

Nii-sama also told me to be careful because it's easy for people to kidnap me. It can't be helped if it will put them at ease.

"And, this is Natalie, your exclusive maid. She will inherit the work that Hannah did. I heard that she took care of their youngest daughter, so she's fine with babies."

"Ai. Nathawie."

"Yes, Ojou-sama. My name is Natalie. Pleased to meet you."

"Nice tho meeth chu."

A soft aura transmitted from the guard when I said that, but Natalie didn't smile. She probably didn't want to come here. However, Otou-sama didn't seem to notice.

The next day was the weekend, so I spent the whole time with Otou-sama and Nii-sama. I was able to go to many places in the mansion and garden that I couldn't before because I was too small. I had fun. However, Nii-sama returned to the dorms once the weekend was over, and Otou-sama had work, so I quickly ran out of things to do.

I saw Otou-sama off and returned to my room, but I didn't know what I should do until noon. There were new toys and books in the room, and they're alright for a baby to play with. But, I couldn't hear Brendel's voice as he talked to the customers who came to the shop, and there were many people in the shop even though I was in the back, that's why I could secretly play with the magic boxes.

I glanced up and saw that Natalie was staring at me. Otou-sama probably chose her because she didn't look like Hannah. Chestnut hair and light brown eyes. She's more beautiful than cute. Let's ask this person to play dress-up with the Rug Dragons. No, that's awkward.

I sighed for the first time since returning to the mansion.

Alright, let's go outside. I stood up.

"Nathawie, go outhshide."

"Ojou-sama, it's already cold outside."

"Wear coath. Ith'sh fine."

"Really?"

Natalie gave in, so I put on my new poncho and went outside.

"Ojou-sama, where are you going?"

"Outhshide."

"It's freezing outside."

"Coath. Ith'sh fine."

The guard outside also stopped me. I slowly walked down the stairs by myself and took Natalie and the guard out to the garden. I walked steadily around all the places I could see from the window. At the beginning of spring there is grass, insects and sometimes lizards. It was a fun garden where I wandered around with Hannah.

However, the grass was withered now and cleaned up. Still, the green grass which was still growing was neatly groomed, but they weren't long enough to even make a whistle. It was almost winter, so I couldn't find any bugs either.

Even if I catch a bug, no one would laugh and get angry at me.

I wonder what I should do. I could only stand in the cold wind at the beginning of winter.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 106 - Easy to Handle Child

Chapter 106: Easy to Handle Child

In the end, it was still too early for Nii-sama to be back even if I went to the entrance, so I ended up tottering back to my room.

What should babies do at a time like this? I have the building blocks I brought from Lentforce. But, I only had one set, and it was more interesting at Brendel's shop because they had many pieces of wood.

I've finished reading all the picture books. And since I haven't moved that much, I wasn't hungry, nor was I sleepy so I couldn't take a nap either.

I ended up holding the barrier box in my lap until Nii-sama came back. I turned my back to Natalie and secretly practised changing my magic.

"Lei!"

"Nii, Nii-syama!"

I was held by Nii-sama, who had just returned, and he spun me around.

"Lei, you can just call me Niini. You can always call me Nii-sama when you get older."

Yes, I decided to properly call Nii-sama, Nii-sama when I returned home.

"I'm finally back. Why do I have to stay in the dormitory? It doesn't take much time to get to the academy even if I commute from here."

"Ai."

I feel like I could finally take a deep breath.

"There seems to be a lot of purposes for getting nobles from the same generation to dine together and learn rules in the same dormitory." Otou-sama, who came back together with Nii-sama, tried to pacify him.

"So, did you get along with people in your generation, Otou-sama?"

"Well..."

Otou-sama looked pensive.

"The same generation... Stan?"

"Weren't you alone?"

"Others were, oh, I can't really remember them."

"Then, the rules?"

"What's the point in rules created by people?"

Nii-sama shrugged his shoulders.

"See, dormitories are pointless after all."

"Hmm. Now, let's have dinner."

Otou-sama changed the subject when it got troublesome for him. I didn't participate in the conversation, and just let Nii-sama hold me as I listened to my close family. This is quality time.

After dinner, we played and talked in my room. I was finally able to sleep at ease when Nii-sama put me to sleep.

◊♦◊♦◊♦◊

Lei is weird ~ Otou-sama's perspective

How relieved was I when Lei finally returned to the mansion? I gave her a room without a balcony and assigned a guard to her so that she wouldn't be taken again.

I had to give her an exclusive maid too since she didn't have a mother. It was difficult to choose someone that didn't look like Hannah and was also superb at their job. I ended up hiring a maid who looked after the youngest daughter of the Remingtons.

Remington's daughter is five years old, but I've heard that she's very active. One maid wasn't enough to look after her, so she had a few, and I was able to hire the calmest one.

I was also planning to increase her maids if it was necessary. Luke hated having servants, so only one was assigned to him after he turned five, but at least he had Claire.

I hoped to have everything perfectly set up, but Lei started acting weird a week after Luke went back to the academy.

I heard half a year is long for a baby. She could speak a lot more fluently, and she had also grown taller. Still, the charming way she reaches out to her Otou-sama hasn't changed.

But...

Was she such a quiet child?

Well, she was quiet. I hardly ever saw her cry. Still, she was interested in a lot of things. She laughed loudly when Hannah teased her, tried her best to crawl, tried her best to walk when she finally could, and when I thought she was behaving herself, she would catch insects. I'm sure that was how she was.

But, Lei isn't like that now. At dinner time, she eats happily and talks about how her day was. However, she keeps her distance from her maid, Natalie, but towards the people in the mansion, and Luke and I, I feel like she's holding back.

I couldn't conclude this alone. I waited until Luke came back from the dormitory and listened to what the maid and guard had to say.

"She's finally asleep, but it's weird. Lei usually sleep well, but she didn't."

"Isn't it because she's excited that you're back after a week?"

"Excited? She didn't look excited. She looks like she's holding something back."

"So she is?"

I looked at Luke.

"How was she in Sebel?"

"She was very lively. Her eyes sparkled, and she looked like she had a lot of fun."

"Hmm."

I put my hand on my chin and looked at the guard and maid.

"Natalie, you've been with Lei for a week, how has she been?"

"Umm..."

Natalie, who was usually lively and calm, looked puzzled.

"Umm, Ojou-sama is calm, and she's easy to look after."

"Hmm. She was a handful to Hannah. She didn't give you lizards or anything?"

"Ojou-sama doesn't do that! She always reads picture books, plays alone with blocks and toys, sometimes she demands to go outside, but she doesn't cry or make a fuss."

Natalie looked confused.

"The Remington's Ojou-sama is very active, and can't stay still for very long. She runs around, throws a temper when she doesn't like something, and uses her maids to her whims, so I don't know how to treat Ojou-sama since she's quiet and I'm honestly confused."

"I, I see."

"She eats slowly by herself even when I try to help her, she wakes up before I come to wake her up, and she gets changed by herself if she can. She doesn't make any mistakes. What can I do besides watch her?"

I should be listening to how Lei is, but the maid ended up talking about her troubles.

"How about you, guards?

"Well, it's our job to keep an eye on her, but honestly, I thought we had to keep watch on a lively child."

The escort moved as if he was embarrassed.

"Nothing. She doesn't cause any trouble. A child that old would probably get someone to hold her when she's tried. But, she tries to walk by herself even if it takes a lot of time. She doesn't get upset even if she's in a bad mood. Honestly, I think she's an odd child."

Luke listened with a gloomy face. Luke probably didn't need to stay in the dormitory and could commute from home. But, Lei will still end up spending the day alone.

"It's because I forcefully separated her from the Hunters...."

"But, if you bring them here, then you'll take away their futures."

Our hatred for the kidnappers grew stronger. If it hadn't been for them, then she could be at ease.

"I don't want to accept it, but I have to..."

"Otou-sama, what're you talking about?"

"It's probably not good for her to be alone during the day. The Prince wants Lei to be his playmate. I don't want her to go out, but then she'll be able to go to the castle with me."

"I refuse," Luke yelled.

"I've heard about him in school. He's a year older than Lei, but he's naughty and violent. That's why he doesn't have a playmate."

I resented that I had to give my important Lei to such a person.

"But, I can't think of another way to cheer up Lei."

"That's-!"

Luke doesn't know how to either. Even if she was by my side, it didn't mean that everything would go well.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 107 - You Can't See Anything Looking Down

Chapter 107: You Can't See Anything Looking Down

Nii-sama and Otou-sama played with me all weekend. It was especially fun when Otou-sama took me to the stables and showed me the Rug Dragons.

"Kyee."

"Kyee."

The Rug Dragons, who approached us, cried loudly. Although it was called the stable, it's a bit far from the mansion, and it was connected to a reasonably vast prairie. There were about 30 Rug Dragons. Perhaps, the Albans are rich since they have this large plot of land in the royal capital that was being used as a stable for the Rug Dragons.

"I mainly use this Rug Dragon, but the Rug Dragon will get lonely by itself, so I'm taking care of the neighbouring Rug Dragons as well since they don't have a stable. The dragons will calm down if they are in a group. We currently have five dragons."

"This is my dragon."

Nii-sama happily tapped the chest of one of the dragons. I could tell that that was the dragon who was with him during our journey, and the dragon also knew who I was since he pressed his mouth against me worriedly. I hugged the dragon's head with both hands.

"I'm oway."

"Kyee."

"Really? You don't seem fine." He seemed to say. I tapped the dragon's head telling him I was alright.

"It's rare to see a child who isn't afraid of the Rug Dragons," the guard spoke.

"What? Ojou-sama is special. Well, Luke-sama and Dean-sama aren't scared of them either." An old man boasted, he seemed to have heard that I've been adopted by the Rug Dragons and was treasured by them beforehand.

"Lei, do you want to ride them?"

"Ai!"

Otou-sama got on the dragon first, and I was then handed to him by the stableman. He held onto me without holding onto the reins and walked the dragon slowly around the prairie. Nii-sama rode his dragon next to us, matching our pace. Although, we were in an enclosed space, I felt relaxed for the first time in a long time because I wasn't able to see any buildings from the prairie which spread on forever.

"Lei, are you bored every day?" Otou-sama suddenly said. Bored. I might be. At least in Lentforce, I was a member of the shop, I held barrier boxes while on hunts, and felt alive. But everything is ready for me now, and I don't have to do anything.

"Ai. Lei hash nothhing tho do."

"Playing around is work for children your age."

Otou-sama seemed to be thinking about something.

"How's Natalie?"

"Worw properwy."

"She doesn't play with you?"

I shook my head. Sorry, but it's hard to ask her to play with me. Nii-sama looked at me, worriedly.

"I can get you a tutor."

There's still a lot of words I can't read, so I'll be happy if he does.

"Lei wanthsh tho read hard boowsh."

"I see. Well, there's that, but it's still too early."

"I started when I was three. I'm not sure about giving her a tutor when she hasn't even turned two yet."

I see, so Nii-sama had a tutor since he was three. I feel like three is too early.

"In Luke's case, Diana, no, it's nothing. *COUGH, COUGH*." Otou-sama unexpectedly said something terrible out of carelessness. Who the heck is this Diana? I'm curious, but I probably shouldn't ask about her.

"Say, Lei."

"Ai."

Otou-sama called me, but he went silent. Nii-sama was shaking his head. Stop it?

That's the feeling I'm getting.

"Someone asked Otou-sama to do something. But, it's before your debut, and I don't want to let you go outside. But, it's the castle, we can at least have lunch together, and we might be able to meet during my breaks." He mumbled. Nii-sama looked at Otou-sama in shock.

"You're doing this for yourself in the end, aren't you? That's not fair, Otou-sama."

"At least, I think there are more toys in the castle. And if she's with His Highness's child, then a lot of people will have their eyes on her. I also feel at ease with the guards."

It seems like Otou-sama is asking me to go to the castle with him, but what is he on about?

"Lei, actually, the Prince has been asking if you would be his son's playmate for a long time."

"How owd?"

"Oh, he's older than Lei by a year and a bit, so he's three."

"Thee-yearsh-owd. Troubweshome."

"Buufo." That came from the guard who was following us from behind. He's thinking, what is a one-year-old saying about a three-year-old? However, of course there are quiet boys around three, but they're mostly active children who run around all day. Compared to them, I don't have that much energy.

"Lei ish one. Ith wouwd be bethther if I pway withh an owder chiwd."

"You're right. I thought that too, but..."

Otou-sama put his hand on his chin as if he was troubled.

"Otou-sama, please think about it properly, no matter how much you want to spend time with Lei. He's a hot-tempered child who even older children don't want to play with. People say it's good to be active, but what the heck is the royal family thinking letting him play with a girl younger than him?"

"Well, you're right. He doesn't particularly misbehave in front of me."

"Adults are no match for you, do you think a three-year-old would be?"

"Luke, you don't have to say that much."

It's interesting to see Otou-sama in a mess. Nii-sama has become quite outspoken. I looked at him in admiration.

"Anyway, won't you come to the castle with Otou-sama at least once? I thought it would be fine after your debut, but you're also compatible. And you can have lunch with Otou-sama."

I think I would typically say I want to go. And, it would probably take a long time before I actually visit the castle since Otou-sama will do all sorts of preparations since he's prone to worrying about me. I hadn't realised this, but I must have been pretty depressed.

"Lei wiww behave ath home." I replied. I'll be alone anyway if I go to the castle. I'll have to play with a violent three-year-old if I'm not alone. I might eat lunch with Otou-sama, but I'm going to be alone after that anyway. If so, then it would be better to stay at home.

I couldn't believe it myself, that there would be a child who thinks that is fine that they should do that.

"Lei, what?"

"Otou-sama, she can't."

Nii-sama and Otou-sama turned pale for some reason, and they agreed that I should be taken to the castle straight away.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 108 - If You Lift Your Head

Chapter 108: If You Lift Your Head

I seemed to have looked very down, since even Nii-sama, who was opposed to me going to the castle, changed his mind, "Why don't you think about it after you visit the castle?" He concluded that I wasn't allowed to be left alone at home.

"Won'th shomeone come pway ath our houshe?" I asked if someone could come over, but it was quite tricky because I had already been kidnapped once. The Albans don't let unidentified people into their home, but people were terrified of letting their children come over and play with me because I was at risk of getting kidnapped.

I think the royal family who wants to let a dangerous child play with their child is useless. But, getting kidnapped in the castle was a trust issue for the royal family, so they were fine with me visiting.

It's difficult. If I really think about it, I had fun playing with the children in Wester, and I got along with Amy and the children in Lentforce, so it should be fine for me to play with another boy. It should also be interesting to explore the castle, and I'm sure they have many books.

Strangely, even though I was able to quickly adapt to the new environment when I got kidnapped, I don't know what to do now that I've returned home. I was desperate to get back, but I didn't realise that I shouldn't cause any more trouble since I've already imposed on a lot of people. However, I didn't realise that I've been keeping my head down and shutting everyone out.

On the other hand, the castle would be in an uproar since Otou-sama was hesitant on who would be my playmate, but I suddenly asked him to bring someone over.

"I think I can bring him over straight away, but they've started talking about increasing his guards and who his maids should be."

"Tuthor."

"When the royal family turns three, they start reading, writing and learning other things."

"Didn'th Nii-shyama awsho shtharth ath thhere?" I included the words, he isn't the Prince, in my question, and Otou-sama looked embarrassed.

"Luke, well, he wanted a tutor, but other children start around five."

"Well, yeah."

My feelings gradually lightened up when I thought that the royal family was really incompetent for not making appropriate preparations for the Prince to go out of the castle. Somehow, having a change of environment worked out positively for me.

It took a week for the castle to do their preparations. I lived my life normally in the meantime with a subtle sense of expectation, enjoyed the weekends, and was finally taken to the castle. I was probably looking forward to this, and the feeling hadn't been subtle at all.

Natalie and a guard will be accompanying me. Natalie seemed nervous about coming to the castle unexpectedly. She looked more expressionless than usual.

I've spent two weeks with her now, and I was starting to understand her more and more. In short, she was a diligent worker, but she was serious and wasn't flexible at all, and she can't secretly enjoy snacks with me like Hannah did. On the other hand, among the guards, Hans usually accompanied me at lunchtime. He's over 40, but a bit mischievous. He was in the convoy, but he had already resigned and was now being employed as a guard for nobles.

I saw off my weeping Nii-sama at the end of the weekend and entered the carriage with Otou-sama while dressing up a little more than usual. I had a ribbon wrapped around my head that held down my fluffy hair a bit.

Otou-sama usually rides the Rug Dragon to the castle, but he was using the carriage today. Otou-sama, Natalie and I fit snugly inside the four-person carriage, and the coachman and guard were outside.

"Otou-syama, no guardsh?"

"I don't need them. Aren't they annoying?"

"Buufo." I'm sure that voice was coming from the guard outside. It seemed like he could hear what we were saying. It's strange for a doting parent who makes his daughter have a guard to say they're annoying. It's rude to the guards, but Otou-sama ignored this.

"The Albans have raised Rug Dragons for generations, that's why our mansion is a little far from town. And it's annoying that they always call me to the castle because I'm close."

"Guh."

The guard held it down this time.

"Come to think of it, it'll be your first time seeing the royal capital this afternoon, right?"

"Ai."

I did pass through it when I came back from Wester, but I didn't have time to get a good look around.

"Here, come to the window."

Otou-sama stood me up and supported me from behind.

"Wow."

The royal capital was more relaxed than Frontier. There were a lot of people heading to work at this time. People couldn't work at night in Frontier, so they started really early in the morning. I also leisurely have breakfast with Otou-sama before he leaves, so it should be around 9am now? If this were Lentforce, then everyone would already be working.

The further we got away from the mansion, the more carriages I see carrying people and vegetables. The people looked bright and lively.

It must still be time for breakfast because I could smell freshly baked bread and a faint scent of meat, and there were stalls on the side of the road.

"Everyone hash magic." I couldn't help but say.

"Is it that different? I'm sure Hunters in Frontier have magic."

"Ai. Hunthersh hunth Howwowsh buth thheir magic ish differenth." (Ai. Hunters hunt Hollows but their magic is different.)

"What about the townspeople?"

"None."

There's no disadvantage to having no magic in a barrier. Why do the people of Kingdom have so many magic users when they don't even think about using it? I'll keep this question in mind until I get the answer someday. I thought, but I was mainly checking out the stalls. I'll come here to eat someday.

"Ojou-sama, do you like lively places?" Natalie reluctantly asked to no one in particular. She probably thought it was rude to interrupt a family conversation.

"That's probably not the case... Lei is just curious and interested in a lot of things." Otou-sama answered for me since I was busy staring at the town. As a maid, she was probably worried about how to handle a child who is okay with reading alone.

I see. I looked at Natalie. Natalie never let her uneasiness show on her face, and she looked a bit younger than usual. It wasn't like she wasn't interested in me, or that she thought I was troublesome, she just didn't know what to do with me.

I didn't realise anything because I've been looking down.

"Nathawie."

Natalie looked at me in surprise.

"Yes, what is it, Ojou-sama?"

"Lei wanthsh tho go tho thhe shthawwsh." (Lei wants to go to the stalls.)

"Huh, shthawwsh?"

"Over thhere."

Natalie seemed confused when I suddenly looked at her with sparkling eyes. She should say that I can't right now, but she might be disappointed as well.

"I'm glad I brought Lei."

Otou-sama's hands, which were supporting me, wrapped around me.

"Outhshide fun."

"Is it? That's good."

We completely forgot about Natalie and smiled.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 109 - To the Castle

Chapter 109: To the Castle

After that, I pointed at various places around town, and it took about 30 minutes to get to the castle. I didn't think anything of it since it was my first time, but I might get tired of it if I were to visit every day. 30 minutes is a pretty long time for a baby.

"Wow, big!"

It was as big as the castle in Wester. We passed through the large gate without a hitch, since Otou-sama was pretty well-known, and reached a vast garden.

"No Howwowsh come here."

"Mm? What's wrong, Lei?"

"Garden in Sebew wash shmaww, becaushe Howwowsh appear." (Garden in Sebel was small, because Hollows appear.)

"Really? Lei knows something father doesn't," Otou-sama said a little sadly. Otou-sama actually wants to go to Frontier too. However, just like in my previous world, if you're going to travel then you should travel in your own country first. Even if he doesn't force himself to go to Frontier, there's lots of places for him to visit here.

"Otou-sama, weth'sh thravew thogethher." (Otou-sama, let's travel together.)

"Travelling, huh?"

"You haven'th vishithed pwacesh around here, righth?" (You haven't visited places around here, right?)

Otou-sama looked shocked as if he had just realised something.

"Come to think of it, I can go anywhere I want as long as I don't go out to Frontier. Yeah, let's travel together."

"Ai."

"People would probably get fussy if they know we're visiting, huh. Alright, let's go incognito."

"Ai. Oway."

Well, guards will follow us no matter where we go, so it's impossible to go incognito. But, now I have something to look forward to.

"We should visit the northern fiefs first. Claire's fief."

Otou-sama looked at me, apologetically.

"Lei's mother's home. Your grandfather and uncle are there, and it's close to Frontier. We'll take Luke with us. I'm sure it'll be fun."

"Ojii-syama!"

I have relatives. I was happy and hopped on my seat. Well, the distance between the gate and castle was that long since we were able to talk like this.

There was a large fountain in the vast garden and neatly arranged plants all over the place. I stared at the scenery while talking to Otou-sama, so I didn't notice that there were people lined up in front of the castle.

"We've reached the castle."

"Ai!"

I could sense that the guard, Hans, had gotten off and was in front of the door, and Otou-sama opened the door before someone else could open it.

"This is..."

Otou-sama stopped for a moment and got off before Natalie, who was nervous.

"Lei, come out."

"Ai."

I reached out for Otou-sama's hands, and he quickly lifted me up. I looked up at Otou-sama with a smile, but he had one side of his mouth raised up, and he looked slightly sarcastic.

"Otou-syama, whath'sh wrong?"

Otou-sama looked at the castle with me still in his arms. I also looked over.

"Uoah."

"Buufo."

"Hans, no."

I turned to look at Hans. This guard laughs too easily. Doesn't that disqualify him from being a guard? However, he might have guts for acting like that in front of all these people.

Yes, there are a lot of people in front of the castle. Some had nobles auras, while others were retainers and maids. In front of them were one tall and slender civil official, three guards, and a maid who looked around Dory's age.

Five people came to greet us, and the rest are just curious onlookers?

"Too fwee."

"They are."

Otou-sama and I muttered, and Hans choked up. He seemed to have just recalled that he was a guard. He placed himself to our left while looking serious. Natalie was to our right.

"You're quite late, Albans."

"It's not like I'm supposed to be here by a certain time, and I didn't ask you to come to greet us."

Is he a little younger than Otou-sama? The person with straight brown hair tied to the back had a pointless argument with Otou-sama.

"Is that Leila-sama? I see, her eyes are violet just like the rumours say they are."

He looked down at me as I was being held by Otou-sama. I was used to being told things about my eyes, but it didn't feel nice. I was a little annoyed. I turned my face away and buried myself into Otou-sama's chest.

The crowd of curious onlookers started chatting. Most of them liked me because small children are cute. I wasn't like I was aiming to be cute.

"We're pressed for time. Now then, we'll take care of Leila-sama." The civil official said, and a guard stepped out front. I don't want to be held by a stranger. I clung to Otou-sama.

"It's fine. I'll take her to where Prince Nicholas is."

"His Highness is always alone in his study room. It would be unfair on him if his playmate is taken there by her father."

"As you said, Leila is his playmate. She can just stay with him when it's playtime. Babies are noisy, so it doesn't make sense to separate them from their parents for the day."

I also heard that I would be his playmate, so I thought that I would only play with him for two hours or so in the evening, like in Lentforce, or in the morning. And then I would spend the rest of the day with Otou-sama.

"Anyways, we're going to get them to spend the day together to see how they get along, right?"

"I haven't heard that."

"What?"

There seems to be a misunderstanding. The Prince's side who were excited that he was getting a playmate, and Otou-sama who was worried about how to protect me. They haven't reconciled their ideas at all.

I looked up from Otou-sama's chest in amazement. I saw Hans holding back his laughter with a serious face. Did Otou-sama not listen, or were people at the castle incompetent? Now then...

At that time, a civil official quickly rushed out of the castle. He went straight to Otou-sama. What happened?

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 110 - The Prince

Chapter 110: The Prince

The civil official rushed towards Otou-sama, and said, "I'm sorry, a problem has occurred, so I want you to start work straight away."

"Hmm. I suddenly have work to do," Otou-sama muttered, as he headed to the castle with me in his arms. It can't be helped.

"Otou-syama."

"What is it, Lei?" The people around us gasped at his gentle voice. He's popular, honestly.

"Lei wiww be withh thhe Prince. Otou-syama, worw properwy." (Lei will be with the Prince. Otou-sama, work properly.)

"But, Lei..."

"Ith'sh oway. I'ww thawe Hansh and Nathawie withh me." (It's okay. I'll have Hans and Natalie with me.)

I don't know what kind of misunderstanding they have, but I came here as a playmate, so I should do my job.

Otou-sama looked at me, then at the civil official who wanted to take me, and then finally at Hans and Natalie.

"Can I leave Lei to you?"

"Yes."

"We came here to look after her."

The two nodded firmly. Otou-sama reluctantly let me down and crouched down in front of me.

"Listen, that civil official over there is Linus. He's the Prince's caretaker, or well, he works as the royal butler. He's stubborn even though he's young, and is inflexible, so you don't have to listen to what he says."

"Otou-syama..."

I was a little shocked. And, I felt at ease. Otou-sama continued in a whisper, "Of course, you don't have to listen to the Prince either. I didn't bring you here for the Prince, I brought you here because I thought you would have fun. You don't have to hold back in front of anyone, and have fun."

"Ai."

I giggled while nodding. It feels refreshing to see him act like a doting parent here too. Otou-sama stood up and said to Linus, "Then, I'll leave Lei to you."

Then, he entered the castle with the civil official who came to pick him up. He's quick once he makes up his mind. I shrugged, slowly walked over to Natalie and Hans, and reached out for Hans's hand. I don't think the Prince would be close by since this castle is enormous. The Linus person said we were pressed for time before, so this isn't the time to be tottering.

Hans was confused since this was the first time I reached out to him, but he picked me up.

"Dear me, Albans's selfishness never changes." Linus stared at Otou-sama's back in shock, put his right hand on his temple and whispered. Hmm, he's obstinate. Then, he turned towards me.

"Leila-sama. My name is Linus. His Highness has already started his studies, so I'll be taking you directly to his study room. You would normally walk there, but we're short on time, so please stay where you are."

"Ai."

"I said that the maid and guard aren't needed, but..."

"I'ww thawe Hansh and Nathawie withh me."

"Fine."

Then, we followed after Linus and walked through the wide and long corridor. When we turned left at the entrance, it looked like a residential area in the inner part. There was a large hall beyond the door with guards stationed, and a staircase leading to the second floor.

It was made like a smaller Albans mansion. In other words, it looked as if there was a mansion attached to the castle. By the way, I think I could have walked close to Hans until here. I looked out the window. Perhaps, it would have been faster to come here through the garden.

"Ith wouwd have been fashther tho come here by carriage."

"Leila-sama, I also think that." Hans agreed with me. Well, I might have needed to enter through the entrance for my first time here, but I don't need to tomorrow. I was horrified to think that I had to walk here from the entrance.

"Now, His Highness is studying on the second floor. Let's go."

Linus nodded at me, and Hans also nodded.

"Down."

"Is that alright?'

"Ai."

I asked Hans to put me down and followed Linus up the stairs. Of course, the guard and maid followed behind us.

There were large corridors on both ends at the end of the stairs with lots of doors. Linus proceeded to the last door on the left and knocked on the door.

"Come in," a high male voice came from inside, and we entered the room in turns. It was a library.

The ceiling was high and was built like an atrium with two or three floors. There was soft light coming in from the windows, and there were a lot of books placed on the wall.

"Wow."

I would love to read these books once I learn how to read. I tried to walk towards the books on the wall.

"Leila-sama." Ah, come to think of it, I had something to do. I completely forgot and turned towards the centre where Linus's voice was coming from.

There was a small classroom there. No, it wasn't a classroom. It's just if I had to put it in Japanese, then there was a blackboard, and a man was standing nervously in front of it. In front of him, was a small desk and chair with a boy on it holding something that looked like a pencil. He seemed very unhappy.

I looked at the boy and gulped. Yellow eyes. Same as Easter's Third Prince who kidnapped me. I reflexively became anxious and angry, but I suppressed t. His eyes were widened in surprise like mine.

"Albans," the small boy muttered. Even though he's small, he probably understood that the eye colours of the royal family and the Four Marquises were rare. He was probably surprised that I had the same eye colour as Otou-sama.

If I ignore the uncomfortable feeling I get from his eyes, then he's the same as me, no, he's a baby who is a little bigger than me. However, his appearance aside, I couldn't help but mutter, "Lothsh of magic."

He probably has the same amount of magic as Onii-sama even though he's this small. I can't see my own magic, so I don't know how much there is, but he probably has a lot more than me. I could only accept that this was a member of the royal family who had magic exceeding that of the Four Marquises.

However, that doesn't matter right now. I faced the boy and properly introduced myself, "I'm Leiwa Awbansh." The boy widened his eyes in surprise again, stood up from his chair and walked towards me.

"I am the eldest son of the First Prince, Lambert. My name is Nicolas Manfred Kingdom."

It's an impressive name. I was impressed that he said that without fumbling. However, it's too long. So, in short, "Nico." Nico seemed a little confused when I called him that.

"Nico?"

"Ai. Leiwa ish Lei."

"Lei?"

"Ai, Nico."

Now, we're done with introducing ourselves. I heard that Nico is three, but he's a head taller than me, so I had to look up to him.

"Leila-sama, even as a joke, His Highness is a direct descendant of Kingdom. You can't just suddenly call him a nickname like Nico." Linus protested. I looked at Linus in amazement. A one-year-old doesn't know anything about direct descendants or nicknames. Well, I know, but... When I tried to say something, Nico spoke, "It's fine. I don't mind. You can call me Nico."

"But..."

"I said, I don't mind."

I feel like he's a little different from the violent Prince I've heard about. I felt a little excited.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 111 - Prohibited

Chapter 111: Prohibited

"If His Highness says it's fine, then alright. Listen, Lelia-sama, you should accept his kindness, say thank you."

He was annoying, so I pretended that I hadn't heard him. By the way, what should I do? I left Linus, who was still saying something and approached Nico's desk. There was something that I was interested in since I first saw it.

"Whath'sh thhish?"

It looked like a pencil. It was like a black crayon wrapped in paper so that your hands wouldn't get dirty. It was a little different from the pens adults used, and it was short to fit into a child's hand.

"It's a pencil."

"Penciw."

"If you write like this on the paper then..."

"Wow, ith'sh wiwe a pen."

It was thin, but the lines are properly drawn.

"And, if you do this..."

When Nico rubbed the paper with a chunk of cloth lying next to him, the line disappeared.

"Ith dishappeared!"

"You can use it lots of times, I heard it's an ex-exceptional item."

"Amazing! Leth me borrow?" I pestered him a little.

"Hmm."

Nico generously agreed to let me borrow his pencil. I grasped the pencil correctly and drew a line.

"Wow, I did ith!"

"Buufo."

The person who was disqualified as a guard was behind me. I was impressed by the pencil, so I took the paper and tried to draw. A big mouth, small hands, big feet and a tail. I looked up at Nico. "What is this?"

"This is... A Rug Dragon?"

"Yup! Nico, amazing!"

I didn't care that a small voice said, "I can't believe you can tell with that," from behind me.

"Lei, you're pretty good."

"Ai."

Unfortunately, I couldn't borrow someone else's pencil forever. I reluctantly gave it back.

"You're finished with your greetings, haven't you? Then, Your Highness, let's finish your studies for today. We're already late," The tutor said. Nico looked bored as he adjusted his position on the chair. Then, what should I do? I turned to the adults.

Linus, 4 guards including Hans, two maids including Natalie, a total of seven people. There are a lot of them, so I'm sure they've thought of something for me to do. I stared at them in anticipation.

Even though Nico had started studying his vowels, no one said anything to me. Everyone looked awkward because of my gaze.

Otou-sama said that they need to increase the guards and maids, that's why I had to wait for a week. In other words, they worked hard on increasing the guards and maids that they didn't think about what the Prince's playmate should do.

I sighed and folded my arms.

"Buufo."

It seems like they haven't thought of what I should do. I have to think of something to do if no one else will. Which means I've decided.

"I wanth paper and a penciw, and a chair and deshw."

"Bring a child's desk and chair! And a spare pencil and paper!" Linus soon issued orders, and people started moving around. I wonder if he can study like this. Nico looked over with interest, and he got lectured, "Your Highness, you haven't started writing yet." I sighed a little. Of course, he wouldn't be able to.

"Linus-sama, we have the paper and pencil ready, but we can't find the desk and chair we'd prepared."

They're not well-prepared. You told Otou-sama he was late, but you haven't made the proper preparations. I looked up at the ceiling in amazement.

"Then, give me thhe penciw and paper."

"But you need a place to write... do you want to use an adult's desk?"

"Ith'sh fine, sho give ith tho me."

I took the pencil and paper and moved next to Nico. Then, I laid down.

"Say, Leila-sama. You can't, as a lady, no, a baby, but you're a girl, but you're not yet?"

Linus panicked. But, I leaned on my shoulders, put my body up and began drawing with the pencil. My legs were bent to my knees. My hands won't move how I want them to, so I'll draw whatever I want.

"Fwowersh, one, thwo, thhree, over here, wizard." (Lizard)

Doesn't it look pretty good? But, I've already drawn a lot on the page. I picked up the cloth to erase it.

"Rub ith outh withh cwothh. Draw a Rug Dragon. Ah."

I ran out of paper and ended up writing on the floor. Oh my. When I was troubled, I saw someone's shadow on the floor.

"It's alright, Leila-sama. Let's wipe it off quickly with this cloth."

"Nathawie."

"Leila-sama, so you like drawing?"

"Ai. Buth thhere'sh no paper ath home."

Natalie talked to me while wiping the floor.

"Paper and pencil are a little expensive, but commoners can buy them too. If you tell Master, then he'll get them for you straight away."

"Reawwy?"

"I think there's paper for Luke-sama to use. Let's ask him."

"Ai!"

This will relieve my boredom a bit. Now, let's draw carefully so I won't draw outside of the paper this time.

"Now, Nico. Round face and yewwow eyesh. Chubby cheewsh and wipsh. And..."

*SMACK*

"Huh?"

I looked up because I've never heard this noise before, and Nico was holding his left hand with his right hand while looking down.

"Focus, Your Highness. If you don't focus, then you won't remember your vowels. You are part of the royal family, so you must not be distracted by normal babies," the tutor scolded, and in his hands was a small branch.

"Now, let's write your vowels again.

Nico thinned his lips even more. The tutor hit Nico with the branch again because he wasn't writing.

*SMACK*

"Ith hurthsh."

There was a slight red line on my hand which was on top of Nico's. This hurts.

"You can'th do thhath," I told the tutor quietly. Hans tried to come to me, but another guard stopped him. Natalie has been standing behind me for a while. I kept my hands on top of Nico's and stared at the tutor.

"He won'th remember even if ith hurthsh. Don'th hith him."

"But His Highness doesn't remember these vowels even though we've been at it for months. Even though he's smart and remembers arithmetic quickly."

I'm stumped even if you tell me that. Doesn't he just like arithmetic and isn't interested in reading or writing yet?

"Give me branch."

I held my hand out to the tutor. He reluctantly gave it to me. I stuffed it into my Rug Dragon pocket. Of course, it was sticking out.

"Branch prohibithed."

"Prohibithed?"

"You can'th ushe ith."

"Prohibited, was it?"

I feel like the tutor had said, "What right do you have?" but I have no right. It's a request from a cute baby.

I removed my hand from Nico's and took his hand. It's a little red, but he's not hurt.

"Pain fwy away!" I chanted and blew on the red place. Then, I looked at Nico.

"Doesh ith shthiww hurth?" (Does it still hurt?)

"It didn't hurt in the first place," Nico, who had said that, was quite stubborn.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 112 - A Battle against Letters

Chapter 112: A Battle against Letters

"Then, Your Highness, you have to be able to write 'a' first," when the tutor said this, Nico sighed and picked up his pencil. This kingdom's letters were closer to English than Japanese, and it was quite complicated to start at 'a'. I think being able to read it is enough for a three-year-old.

I looked at him, and he seemed confused at the part where you circle it around.

"He doeshn'th wnow if he shhouwd go wefth or righth," I muttered. It's amazing to know left from right.

"Move your penciw thoo."

"Pencil? Like this?"

"Ai. In a circwe. Liwe Lei'sh hair."

Nico stopped moving his pencil and looked at me. Then, he turned the paper.

"Move the pencil too, and circle."

"Ai, Nico, wiwe thhath."

"Hmm. I did it."

Nico looked at the tutor.

"You did it."

Nico sighed in relief, then whispered, "I don't like 'a'." Well, if you get hit because you're not good at it, then it'll turn out like this. It suddenly occurred to me.

"If you hathe ith, thhen I'ww beath ith."

"Beath ith?"

I picked up the paper that Nico had written the 'a' on, handed it to Natalie, and took out the tree branch from the Rug Dragon pocket. Natalie looked curiously at the paper and me.

"Natalie. Drop thhe paper from thhe thop."

"Huh? From the top?"

Natalie lifted the paper up lightly and let go. I swung the branch at the falling piece of paper.

"Eh!?"

*MISS* The paper fluttered down.

"Buffo."

It might be better to lower Hans's salary. I think several people were laughing. I aimed for the falling piece of paper with the branch. Anyway, it's fine as long as I hit it.

"Ei!"

Then, I turned to Nico.

"Lei beath thhe 'a'. Here."

I gave the branch to Nico.

"Now ith'sh Nico'sh thurn. Nathawie, can you drop thhe paper?"

"Am I hitting the paper?"

He was confused. I shrugged.

"Lei did ith. Nico can do ith thoo."

"Lei, you couldn't do it either," Nico said as he stood up on the chair, and held the branch out. It's easy to handle stubborn people. Natalie dropped the paper.

"Ei!"

"I hit it!"

"I hit it!"

It's not frustrating.

"Then, draw ith again and hith ith."

"Ok!"

"Ai, move thhe penciw around, yup good!"

Then, he passed it to Natalie.

"Natalie, drop the paper."

"Y-yes."

We did it a few more times, and then I heard coughing. It was the tutor.

"Your Highness, return to your studies."

"Hmm."

"Nexth? whath're you writhing?"

"Mm, 'I'," Nico answered, and wrote it smoothly.

"Next is 'u'."

"Amazing."

"But, the next letter 'e' is hard."

You're writing it correctly. I tilted my head in confusion.

"I might have to make another wave."

"Leth'sh thry ith."

I added another wave to Nico's 'e'."

"It doesn't look right."

"Ith woowsh weird."

"There's only one wave."

"Yup," I agreed. Of course, some people disqualify as guards. There were some letters that he had trouble with, but he wasn't stuck on the problematic parts. Isn't it enough for a three-year-old to be able to read these letters and write that much?

But, I got bored with him writing all the time. Didn't I come here to play?

I approached Linus.

"Say, Linush."

"What? What did you say, Leila-sama?"

Did I mishear his name? I'm sure I heard Otou-sama call him 'Linus', and he introduced himself like that.

"Linush."

"I didn't mishear. It's my first time being called without honorifics, and by a baby at that," he was muttering something.

"Linush, when pway?"

"Hah? I think you're playing right now."

"Noth pwaying. Sthudying."

I was annoyed. Didn't Nico stop smiling wryly because he had fun studying with me?

"Linush, enough."

"Hah? What's enough?"

"Ith'sh enough awready. Where'sh thhe picthure boowsh?"

"Huh? So, enough means this is over, and now you want picture books?"

I came to the castle, but no one prepared anything for me to do, so I have to look for something to do myself.

"Picthure boowsh!"

"Ojou-sama, the picture books are over here." Another maid couldn't stand it anymore, and said.

"Ai."

Nico looked at me jealously. Of course he would. How long has he been sitting on that chair? I approached Nico and looked him in the eyes. I was a little scared of these yellow eyes at first, but they look bright on a closer look.

"Nico, read picthure boowsh tho Lei. Wiwe Niini."

"Niini?"

"Oh, wiwe Nii-syama."

I accidentally said Niini. Weren't I acting like a baby?

"Nii-syama? Nii-sama?"

Nico cheered up.

"Alright. I'll read picture books to you instead of your Nii-sama."

"Ai!"

"Your Highness, and Ojou-sama, why are you deciding this on your own?" The tutor said in amazement.

"Odds-dono, let Leila-sama do what she wants right now," Linus says good things once in a while.

"Lei wanthsh a boow Lei hadn'th read before."

"Then how about 'The Dragon and the Knight'?"

"Oway!"

However, since I haven't been actively lately, I got tired easily and seemed to have suddenly fallen asleep while Nico was reading the picture book to me Otou-sama hadn't finished his work in time for lunch, he rushed to where I was when he was finally done. He was disappointed at the flustered adults who didn't know what to do with the two sleeping children.

I heard all this from Otou-sama when we were going home in the carriage. There was a basket next to Natalie, and I was given different types of bread from that basket. I was in the carriage when I woke up, and it was already too late for lunch.

"I haven'th pwayed yeth," I said, a little disappointed.

"But, falling asleep before lunch is proof that you're tired. It was decided that I would take you back because they made you push yourself. I also rushed the work I had to do, so I'm leaving early."

Otou-sama seemed a little happy.

"Since I'm going home early, how about we take the dragon back to the stable and go out for a ride?"

"Ai!"

"Oh, Lei."

"Ai?"

Otou-sama hesitated a little.

"Do you want to come again?"

"To thhe cashthwe?"

"Yeah."

"Yesh! I haven'th been tho thhe garden yeth! And thhere are wothsh of picthure boowsh."

"Oh, okay."

Otou-sama gently patted my head as I waved the bread in excitement.

"You finally looked at Otou-sama. I've been worried because you're always looking down lately."

"Otou-syama..."

You've been that worried about me? Oh, yes, I might have been too quiet while trying to be a good girl.

"The stupid people in the castle have been useful since you've got your energy back."

"Eh..."

Otou-sama never changes.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 113 - Looking Forward to Tomorrow

Chapter 113: Looking Forward to Tomorrow

But, the people at the castle are horrible at arranging things. And, it's not about me.

"Otou-syama, worw withh thhe barrier." (Otou-sama, work with the barrier.)

"That's right. Lei's smart."

"You worw withh thhe barrier shomethimesh. Buth why are you bushy?" (You work with the barrier sometimes. But why are you so busy?)

"Hmm. Otou-sama does other work as well. Domestic affairs, ah, how should I put this? I have to decide a lot of things."

He doesn't just work with the barrier. And, because other people can't do his work for him, he has to rush in the morning. But, if I were someone from Kingdom, then I wouldn't even leave important work to influential people, because that's too much power for someone to have, right?

What I derived from this is that Kingdom is a peaceful country, but it is full of incompetent people.

I finished my food while I was thinking. It's fun to eat in the carriage. Natalie wiped my hands and continued to hold my hand as she gently stroked my palm.

"Nathawie?"

"Leila-sama, I've been worried. Does it hurt where you were hurt?"

"Oh, ah."

So, she's talking about that?

"Ith'sh oway now."

"Don't be reckless. Hans and I were both surprised," Natalie said, and she really did look worried.

"What are you talking about?"

"Mm, she protected His Highness and got hit by a branch."

"What?!"

Otou-sama took my hand, stared at it and sighed in relief.

"There's no mark. By a branch... So you're saying His Highness was being beaten by his tutor?"

"That's right. The teachers at school also hit boys who skip class, but I'm surprised that someone would be that strict on a three-year-old. Leila-sama saw this, and she protected him."

"Ai. Hurth, no good. No hiththing."

People don't remember stuff even if they're hit.

"If I recall, he was Prince Lambert's tutor. People say that the royal family's education is strict every generation. Ridiculous."

He gets straight to the point.

"Otou-syama, were you hith?"

"I never did anything for me to get hit. If I did get hit, then I would've struck back with a swift attack."

Otou-sama will do that.

"Otou-syama, throubweshome."

"What Lei? Sympathy can turn to love. That damn Lambert, he better not be thinking that he could take advantage of Lei's kindness to sympathise with Prince Nicholas to win favours."

"Otou-syama..."

I don't think those people can think up something like that. And, can you stop calling a member of the royal family without their title? But, you also call the Prince, Nico, you say? It's fine since he's my playmate.

"I'ww go thomorrow thoo. Then, I'ww pway in thhe garden."

I didn't get to play today after all. Otou-sama watched me expressionlessly as I bounced on my seat, but then he smiled. Nii-sama was really annoyed when he heard about this afterwards.

◊♦◊♦◊♦◊

A Stormy Child (Linus's Perspective)

"I'm late."

The door opened without a knock. The two children didn't move an inch at the sound and were leaning against each other on top of the sofa with a picture book in their laps. It wasn't lunchtime yet, but everyone was flustered and wondered what they should do about the two sleeping children on the sofa when Albans-dono entered the room.

"This is... She must have been exhausted. I came to take her to lunch with me, but this is good. I'll take her home like this," he whispered and picked up Leila-sama without looking at His Highness, then he started walking away. The maid and guard quickly followed after him. We, who remained, were stunned.

"Albans's selfishness..." I couldn't help but mutter. However, His Highness, Nicholas, woke up because Leila-sama was gone. He doesn't usually take naps. He might have fallen asleep because Leila-sama had.

"Where's Lei?" His Highness immediately said when he looked next to him and noticed that no one was there.

"Albans-dono took her home because she fell asleep."

"I told her I would play with her after I finish my studies, didn't I?!"

That's true. He studies in the mornings and trains in the afternoon. Playtime is between that. This is how His Highness's life is like. Of course, His Highness would be angry since he was made to study even though he was excited to have a playmate.

"Leila-sama is younger than you, so I guess she got tired," I said, and His Highness seemed to be thinking about Leila. He agreed that she was younger.

"Then, what about tomorrow?! Is she coming tomorrow?!"

"She should be..."

This depended on Albans-dono, so I couldn't say anything. Even if the tutor hadn't meant to, if he knew that Leila-sama had been hit with a branch, then he might not let her come to the castle anymore because he treasures her.

"Then, that's alright." His Highness said and handed the picture book to the maid without losing his temper.

"Your Highness."

"What?"

The tutor, Odds, called out to His Highness. His work was supposed to end at this time.

"Let's try writing the letters from the 'a' line again."

"Study time is already finished."

"Leila-sama will definitely be surprised if you show her what you wrote."

"Hmm." His Highness thought a little, then sat quietly in front of the desk and held his pencil.

"You turn the pencil to write 'a' like Lei's hair," he whispered as he moved his pencil. Then, he finished within a couple minutes.

"That's right. Your Highness, you wrote everything correctly. We'll finish here today."

"Hmm. It's pretty easy."

His Highness nodded in satisfaction, stood up from his chair and went to dinner with his guard escorting him.

"Odds-dono."

"Linus-dono, there's no doubt. He learnt how to write the things he couldn't for a few months in just a day."

Odds's hands were trembling.

"I know he just memorised them. But, he didn't want to learn properly and didn't care about how he wrote. I wanted to motivate him somehow, so we could move on to the next part, but I couldn't."

Odds grasped his hands tightly.

"He learnt it in only a few hours. And, that one-year-old baby knows how to write better than His Highness. She didn't get fed up with His Highness, and got him to memorise it properly while stroking his ego."

"No way, that's a coincidence."

"You think so? She told me that the branch was forbidden. She seemed older than me..."

"That's impossible. In any case, it would be nice if she could study with him as well as be his playmate."

She didn't get in the way of his studies in the end.

"And, I wonder if His Highness can keep his temper in."

"I don't know when he'll flare up next..."

The biggest problem remained. Even so...

"Fu, fufu."

"What's wrong, Linus-dono?"

"She's not shy and was like the storm."

"Ah, you're right."

For some reason, I was looking forward to tomorrow.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 114 - Temper

Chapter 114: Temper

I had plenty of sleep since I went back to sleep after getting tired from playing with the Rug Dragons. Then, it was decided that from the next day I will be going to the castle every day. In other words, it was like a kindergarten. I did that for a week, and if there were a lot of problems or burdens, then the times I visited the castle would decrease the next week.

Don't people usually increase visits little by little? In the morning, I studied with Nico with a break, then, we each had lunch separately. In the afternoon, we read picture books together and ran around outside. After my nap, I would go home with Otou-sama.

Studying was boring, but I helped Nico when he didn't understand something, and it was fun to see him study more. Nii-sama is smart, but I was impressed that Nico understood so much for a three-year-old. The garden was also looked after like ours was, but it was more fun to run around with someone else than alone.

"Leila-sama, you're not running though," Hans said, but I think I'm running. Nico just runs faster because his legs are longer. It's a bit disappointing that I become sleepy whenever I run around after lunch.

"Why does Lei sleep so much?" Nico complained, but what can I do?

"You geth bigger if you shweep a woth," that's the only thing I could say.

"I didn't sleep that much when I was younger," even if he said this, I can't really do anything because I only sleep well because I'm a child.

Then, a week passed.

"Even I haven't played with Lei that much," Nii-sama was annoyed, so I played with him all weekend, and it happened the week later.

After I dropped Otou-sama at the entrance of the castle and the guards got in, I slowly headed to where Nico was. Linus was with us the first few times, but now there were only maids and guards and the tutor, Odds, in the morning.

However, Linus was waiting for me that day.

"Linus-dono, this is rare," Hans said lightly. The guards had a lower position than Linus, so they couldn't talk to him like this, but Hans had the backing of the Albans family, so his position was the same as Linus. I'm not really sure, but it's helpful to have someone who speaks clearly around.

"Hans-dono, you're..."

Linus put his hand on his temples. This person is very formal.

"No, thank you for coming today, but His Highness is in a bad mood."

"So, his famous temper flared?"

Temper? The two of them understood each other, but what were they talking about?

"Linush, Nico doeshn'th feew weww?" (Linus, Nico doesn't feel well?)

"That's not it."

Linus leaned towards me. I don't think he's going to crouch, but it's progress that he's bending down closer to the baby to talk.

"For some reason, His Highness gets irritated for a whole day sometimes, and his temper flares. It's difficult to play when he gets out of hand. Today is one of those days. You've come all the way to the castle, but it's best if you go back for today."

In that case, should I tell Otou-sama that I'll be going home first? I looked up at Natalie and Hans.

"What're you doing!? Get over here, Lei."

"Your Highness, don't jump out."

"Shut up!"

Nico rushed out probably because he had seen the carriage. His words were more vulgar than usual, and I can tell he's irritated. His face might be a little red. No, that wasn't all.

"More magic thhan normaw."

Nico had more magic than me. I don't think there would be any problems just because it's big, but is it connected?

"Lei, hurry and come here!" Nico said and pulled my hand, so I fell down.

"Your Highness!"

"Because Lei's late! I waited for you, but you never came!"

Natalie tried to pick me up when I fell in front of Nico.

"Ith'sh oway. I can geth up myshewf."

It was a bit withered, but I fell on top of the grass. I was just surprised, it didn't hurt.

"Ai. Coming."

I got up and reached for Nico. He held my hand tightly.

"You're a bith hoth. Leth me shee your forehead for a bith."

"My forehead?" Nico asked curiously.

"Ai, forehead."

I stood on my tiptoes and put my forehead on Nico's. Nico froze, and the adults had their mouths gaped open.

"You don'th have a fever."

Now I'm certain it has to do with his magic after all. I took my forehead away from Nico's and grabbed his hand. I said something to the people who couldn't reply and remained frozen.

"Hans, dishquawified ash a guard."

"Leila-sama, no way! Ah, Master will definitely get angry if he saw." Hans cried, and the other adults finally moved.

"Leila-sama."

"Anyway, weth'sh go," I said, and everyone began moving. Nico grasped my hand tightly as if he was clinging to something, and it hurt a little. We move together when we play, but we don't hold hands.

"Nico, whath abouth shthudying?"

"I don't want to!"

Indeed, you wouldn't want to sit down if you were this irritated. I held his hand and searched for his magic. He had so much magic, and I felt like it was stagnated in various places. If you have too little magic then you could collapse, so do people feel bad when they have too much? In that case, he'll feel better if he channels his magic into a magic stone, but can he do it?

I should call his parents, but his mother is probably an ordinary noble, so she probably isn't familiar with magic. His father is the Prince, so I can't just summon him. And, how would I explain it to him? I have no choice left.

"Hans, caww Otou-syama."

"Leila-sama, but Master is working."

"Ith'sh importhanth."

I looked at Hans. He thought for a while and then dropped his shoulders.

"Okay. Then, I'll ask Linus-dono. He can get away from work if Linus-dono calls for him."

"Me?"

"He'll come straight away if you tell him that Leila-sama called him. I'll leave it to you."

"Fine."

Linus started moving. I also walked up the stairs while holding Nico's hands. I always climb up by myself, but it's fun to climb up while holding hands. I looked up at Nico, and he looked like he was having fun.

We entered the library, and Odd-sensei was waiting for us.

"Then, today..."

"Senshei, waith."

"Leila-sama?"

"Breaw from shthudying."

"What?"

Nico probably can't study like this.

"You can't decide that on your own."

"That's why Albans are always so annoying," I felt like I could hear Linus say, but he isn't here right now, so I'm hearing things.

Now then, I pushed my magic into Alistair when I was teaching him how to handle magic, but that would be terrible for Nico since he has a lot of magic. Then, what should I do?

How about absorbing it?

I've never absorbed magic before, but it's like transferring magic into a magic stone and then transferring it back. Do I reverse the flow? I turned to Nico.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 115 - Reckless

Chapter 115: Reckless

If it's just a little bit, like really a little bit, then I can probably try it.

I ignored Odds-sensei, who looked like he wanted to say something.

"Nico, sith?"

"Like this?"

Nico and I sat face-to-face. How nostalgic. The last time I did this was in spring at the prairie.

"Handsh wiwe thhish."

"Like this."

We held hands. I looked at the magic flow carefully and transferred Nico's magic to mine.

"Guh."

"Lei?"

I can do it, but it wasn't easy. Magic with different quality from mine flowed through my body. Instead of blending with my magic, it just swirled within my body. It's disgusting.

But, Nico's magic had decreased by a lot. He should feel better.

"Lei, you're sweating. But it's hot. What's going on?"

"Nico, how are you feewing?"

"Don't ask about me! No, the fuzzy feeling's gone."

"That's good," I whispered while feeling dizzy and fell down. It's okay. I'll remove Nico's magic and scatter it in the air, but magic that isn't mine doesn't listen to me easily.

If I make a barrier here, then the magic can be converted, but I know I can't do that here.

Natalie's screams echoed through the room. Maids are usually calm.

"Leila-sama!"

"Natalie, whath...?"

"This isn't the time to be saying that!"

"Guh... magic shthone, if i had a magic shthone..."

The door opened with a bang. I laughed. It's Otou-sama.

"Lei. What's wrong!?"

Otou-sama picked me up right away.

"Lei thried tho abshorb Nico'sh magic."

"Idiot! Your magic certainly doesn't look like it's just your own. Damn royal family! They always make a mess!"

"O-otou-syama, nee."

Why does Otou-sama always say unnecessary things?

"I can channew ith outh, buth need magic shthone."

"Magic stone? I see, alright. Linus!"

"Y-es! Leila-sama is..."

"She's fine. Bring all the empty magic stones you can."

"Hah?"

"Don't make me repeat myself!"

"Yes!"

Linus started running after he lost to Otou-sama's yelling.

"Lei, Lei. Oh yes, if Otou-sama absorbs Lei's excess magic."

"No... Otou-syama, you'ww feew bad..."

"Lei."

"Ith'sh oway. Ith'sh oway. Channew ith outh..."

I feel a little better.

"I brought the magic stone!"

"Give it to me! Lei!"

"Magic shthone, hand."

Otou-sama put the magic stone into my hand.

"Oh, don't do anything dangerous!" I can hear Odds-sensei and Linus. I carefully moved Nico's magic. A little at a time, a little at a time.

"What the hell is going on?!"

"Father!"

"Your Highness!"

Someone seemed to have come in, but I didn't have time to pay attention to him. The magic stone became full.

"More..."

"Yeah, here."

A little more, a little more.

"Fuu."

I opened my eyes.

"Huh?"

A stranger was looking at me with yellow eyes.

"So, you're Lei? I see you're adorable."

"This isn't the time to joke like that!" Otou-sama shouted. He's probably a real Prince.

"Lei, are you alright?"

"Ai. Oway."

Nico was also looking at me, worriedly. Good, his magic is coming back. Even so, I was also trying to reduce his magic by a little, but I was surprised that I had absorbed a lot more. He probably has a lot of magic. And, this person, looking at me with interest, had a very different amount of magic.

"What the heck happened? Can you explain it?" Otou-sama brought me some water and said after he'd calmed down a little. I wonder if I can talk about magic. I asked Otou-sama with my eyes.

"We don't publicise it, but the royal family knows that the Albans can see magic. We've already told the people who don't know to go out, so it's fine," he said, and I looked around. I saw Nico, and probably Nico's father and Linus. There was no one else.

"Whath abouth Linush?"

"It'll be his fault if this leaks out. Nice to know this."

"Otou-syama..."

Doesn't Linus look scared? I got on top of Otou-sama's lap and started talking.

"Nico had more magic thhan ushuaw."

"Magic? Can Lei see it?"

"Ai. Becaushe of thhath, he couwdn'th move his magic and fewth bad."

Nico looked like he didn't understand anything at all. Nico's father put a hand on his chin and groaned.

"People who are direct descendants of the royal family feel bad on an irregular basis when they're young. It's normal, and we thought it was because of magic. So it really is because of magic..."

"That doesn't happen to the Albans. The royal family's magic is really different from the Four Marquises. Because of that, doesn't the magic fluctuation, which normal magic users don't have to worry about, make the royal family's physical condition bad?" Otou-sama explained, and Nico's father nodded.

"I see, that's understandable. Then, what did Lei do?"

"Your Highness, I don't recall allowing you to call her Lei."

"My son always calls her Lei, so of course I learnt her name. Isn't it fine? Don't be small-minded, Albans."

I don't think now's the time to be talking about this. Otou-sama didn't know what to say, and Nico's father asked me directly, "So, why did you collapse?"

"Lothsh of magic channew outh, ushe magic shthone. Buth, Nico can'th do."

"I don't think young children can do that. We even say that they can't."

I feel a bit of sarcasm. Well, it's alright.

"Lei wiww abshorb magic in pwace of magic shthone."

"Why would you do something so dangerous...?"

"Nico, painfuw. Feew bethther."

That's all. But, it is a bit reckless.

"Magic channew intho magic shthone. I'm awrighth now."

"What the heck... is this child?" Nico's father was surprised, and Otou-sama sighed.

"She seemed to have learnt this to survive in Frontier."

"How heartbreaking..."

I learnt it before I was kidnapped, Otou-sama. Aren't you just making things up?

"Nico do magic practhice."

"But, you know..."

"You'ww feew bethther if you channew ith intho magic shthonesh."

"Erm..."

"Niini, good ath it."

"Luke is?"

Otou-sama was a little surprised.

"It certainly is better for children to practice together. I'm not good at it."

Was that the reason why he hesitated? Isn't it better for Nico's father to practice too?

"Luke can certainly see how Lei is if he was here, and he would be happy..."

Thus, we understood the cause behind Nico's tempers, and Nii-sama was sent here once a week to be a teacher because of Otou-sama's ulterior motives.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 116 - Nii-sama is Good

Chapter 116: Nii-sama is Good

"I don't need anyone else as a playmate except for Lei!"

Nico felt better, but I was taken home by my worried Otou-sama, so I couldn't play with him that day. He got a little angry the next day.

"Your Highness. He's not going to be your playmate. He's still a student, but he's going to be your teacher," Linus said unnecessary things to Nico.

"I don't need a teacher either! Odds-sensei is annoying enough."

Ah, there's someone else who says unnecessary things here! But, of course, three-year-olds would throw tantrums. And both Odds-sensei and Linus are annoying people.

"Nico, Nii-syama ish a good pershon."

"I don't need a Nii-sama, either!"

"Buth, he'ww read picthure boowsh tho ush." (But, he'll read picture books to us.)

"I can read them myself!"

I see. Then, what would be a good reason for Nii-sama to be here? I thought.

"Nii-syama, wiww give you hugsh."

"Hmm, hugs?"

That's something you can't do by yourself. This seemed to have moved him. Now, what else?

"And, he'ww pway withh ush."

"So he is a playmate after all!"

"He'sh fashth." When I said that, Nico looked at me pitifully.

"... Lei can't run."

"Hah? Lei can run! Lei can run thogethher!"

"O-okay. Lei can run. Alright?"

I snorted at Nico, who was flustered. Of course, I can run. I've graduated from tottering.

"And, Nii-syama doeshn'th thawe napsh." (And, Nii-sama doesn't take naps.)

"Lei sleeps too much."

"Sweeping meansh growing!"

It was a bit frustrating that Nico's eyes seemed to be saying that I'm still small even though I sleep a lot. No, I shouldn't stoop to a child's level. Stay calm. Appeal Nii-sama's good points.

"He'sh awsho good ath thhe shword."

"Sword, you say?"

Nico folded his arms as if that was alright. Apparently, one can fold their arms when they reach three-years-old. I secretly tried to fold my arms. I can't do it.

"Buffo."

I'm sure that's Hans.

"Listen carefully, Your Highness and Leila-sama. Luke-sama will be coming to teach you how to handle your magic. He's not coming here to play."

I know that. I know, but we're talking about how Nii-sama can take a break between teaching us, aren't we? Nico and I looked at each other and sighed in amazement.

"Linus, no good."

"No."

Linus looked stunned for a second, then spoke, "Your Highness and Leila-sama, what is no, huh? No?"

"Nico."

"Yeah, let's go."

We left Linus and went up to the second floor. Nico was a little ahead of me because his legs were longer. It's not because I couldn't run. But, I'm troubled that the adults are dull-witted.

"Huh? What's no? Was it about Luke-sama? Huh?"

Well, it's time to study. Finish it as soon as possible, so we can go outside to play.

I thought Nii-sama was going to come in the morning, but he came in the afternoon after we'd finished with lunch. Also, he only came once a week, so he taught Nico over dinner since he won't be here for a while.

"No way."

"Lei?"

I'll fall asleep if we practice magic after lunch. That's boring. I tried to tell Nii-sama this, and he cautioned me while looking happy, "Lei, don't swing the fork. That's right."

"Either way, you have to study in the morning, and you won't be able to concentrate if I'm there."

"Hmph."

"Don't pout. Nii-sama has to study in the mornings too."

I know.

But, I had been waiting for Nii-sama to come and he was finally here.

After lunch, I went out with Nico to the garden, and we saw a carriage.

"Isn't that the Albans carriage?"

"Nico, you know?"

"Yeah. Because of the pattern on the carriage."

"Amazing."

I looked at Nico in admiration.

"You'll learn about it someday, Lei."

"Weww, I don'th wnow."

I don't really feel that it's necessary.

"Then, shall we add that to the morning studies?"

"No."

Linus says a lot of things. Before long, the carriage slowly stopped. Nii-sama is coming. Both Nico and I were waiting in excitement.

"Hey, Lei."

"Giww?"

But, the person who descended was Gill.

"Where'sh Nii-syama?"

"Lei, you're so cold even though we haven't seen each other in a long time. You can call me Gill-niisama."

"Won'th."

He's a little annoying. But, I didn't have time to say that, because Nii-sama got off the carriage.

"Nii-syama!"

"Lei," Nii-sama called out to me happily, then he tightened his expression and immediately turned to Nico. Gill, who was joking around, also looked at Nico.

"Your Highness, Nicholas. I am Luke Albans."

"My name is Gilbert Lisburn."

"Hmm. I'm the eldest son of Lambert, Nicholas Manfred Kingdom."

As expected of Nii-sama. He was able to say hello.

"We're equal. Father said you didn't need to kneel."

Nico was also pretty good.

"We wanted to make eye contact with you."

Nii-sama narrowed his eyes gently. The first impression seems to be good so far.

"Then, up."

Nico reached out to Nii-sama.

"Hah? What?"

Nii-sama was confused, and I stood behind Nico. Nii-sama usually hugs me first, but I'll give this to Nico since it's his first time.

"Huh? Lei, why are you lining up behind him? What the heck is going on?"

"I heard that you were good. I'm telling you to pick me, aren't I?"

"Eh, okay."

Nii-sama didn't know what was going on, but he probably concluded that the Prince wanted to be picked up from the words he heard. He picked Nico and put him on his hips. Then, he said in a surprised tone, "Your Highness, you're a little bigger than Lei."

"Of course, I am. Isn't Lei too small?" Nico said anxiously to Nii-sama. Rude. And, Gill, who was laughing is also rude.

"Lei is younger than Your Highness. It's the same as me being smaller than Gill."

"Hm. Lisburn is certainly big."

Gill took Nico from Nii-sama.

"Oh, you're not as big as father, but you're big, Gill."

"Well, isn't that normal? Here."

"Hahaha! How high! Haha."

Nico looked happy to be raised high. I got Nii-sama to hold me next.

"Nii-syama."

"What is it, Lei?"

It's nothing. The two of us laughed. Then, we heard the bell ring.

"Now, you two didn't come here to play, Luke-sama and Gilbert-sama. It's time for His Highness to study."

That's right. He has to study magic diligently. Let's go inside the castle first.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 117 - Nii-sama Study

Chapter 117: Nii-sama Study

Now that we have finished with the greetings, everyone headed to the second floor.

"It's better to do it outside, but it's cold."

"Aai."

"Kuh."

When Nico saw me raise my hand, he imitated me, and Nii-sama covered his face when he saw this.

Because the study room was left as it was this morning, there was a small table, chairs and a blackboard, so Nico and I quickly sat down, and waited excitedly for Nii-sama's class to begin.

"Mm, Lei and Your Highness."

"What's wrong?"

"Whath'sh wrong?"

"I think Lei knows this, but we don't use desks or chairs to practice magic."

Oh, that's right. When Nico and I got off the chair, Nii-sama beckoned us to the carpet on the floor.

"It's called magic circulations, and you begin by being conscious of the magic inside you, and practice how to move it. "

Indeed, Nii-sama and Otou-sama trained a lot at home.

"However, to be honest, this is a bit boring. It's not interesting at first."

At that time, the library door opened softly, and Nico's father came in. Nico was listening seriously to Nii-sama, and Nii-sama didn't pay attention to what was happening behind him. Nico's father signalled me to be quiet by putting his finger to his mouth, so I kept quiet.

"First, Lei. Let's make His Highness aware of his magic."

"Ai!"

I faced Nico and took his hand. I sent magic to him like I did with Alistair. He'll be surprised. And if I send too much, it would probably feel gross to him, so I'll just send a little.

"Nico, Nico wiww shend magic."

"I'm not sure what you're doing though."

Nico tilted his head in confusion, and I pushed a little magic into Nico.

"Wow."

Nico was surprised and quickly let go of my hand. I laughed.

"What did you do?"

"Thath'sh magic."

"I feel like my body is swaying."

"Magic shwaysh."

Nico looked curious.

"Your Highness, perhaps, you had too much of this swaying, so you felt bad."

"Lots of swaying... I see."

Nico suddenly realised something.

"You're practising how to expel that swaying."

Nii-sama continued while looking mischievous, "It's actually dangerous for students, so they practice slowly, but is it impossible for you, Your Highness?"

"I can do it!

Nico suddenly got motivated.

"Then, this is a magic stone."

Nii-sama took out a small light magic stone out from his bag.

"This is a magic stone used for light that Lei had filled up when she was one."

"Lei did?"

Nico was surprised, and Nico's father raised his eyebrows. It was an accident. An accident.

"Ith jushth happened tho be in my hand."

"Fufu, everyone was worried at the time."

"Ai. Sowwy."

I'm good now.

"You have more magic than Lei did at that time. So, you won't feel bad if you channel your magic into this one stone. Do you want to try it?"

"I do!"

Nico nodded.

"For now, hold it in your hand."

"Hmm."

Nico put the faded magic stone on his palm and tilted his head.

"Nothing's happening.

"Lei wiww thry shwaying magic from thhe wefth."

"Hmm, do that."

I held Nico's left hand as he held the magic stone in his right and gently pushed magic into him.

"Oh, it's swaying."

"Shwaying geththing bigger."

I swayed my body while still holding his hand.

"Hahaha! Shake, shake!"

Our magic also shook. The magic swaying inside the laughing Nico slipped off a little.

"Ah."

The magic that had slid off of him was sucked in by the magic stone. The magic stone quickly turned red, then purple. It should repel soon.

"Oh."

"Did you geth repewwed?"

"It was like the magic stone was saying it didn't need any more."

"Dat!"

It seemed like his magic was sucked safely. Everyone was watching nervously, and then they felt relieved when they heard this.

"Let's get the magic stones to suck your excess magic once a week like this. And if you feel bad in the meantime, then let His Highness or Lei look at you, and get the magic stone to suck your magic again."

"Alright!"

"Now, let's leave that aside, and practice circulating your magic."

"Hmm."

Nico was full of motivation.

"What? You're finished?"

"Father!"

"Your... Highness."

Nico looked at his father, and Nii-sama turned around and realised that the Prince was there. They both raised their voices. Gill, who had been watching happily, also adjusted his posture.

"Isn't it unfair for only Nico to experience these things?"

I wondered what he would say, and he said that. Everyone became troubled. I know someone like this, so I knew what the Prince was going to say next.

"I want to try it too."

"But, Your Highness, your job is to channel magic into the magic stones. Why do you want to channel your magic into a small one?"

Nii-sama pointed out calmly.

"I'm not saying I want to channel magic into the magic stone. I'm saying I haven't done anything interesting like channelling magic into someone else."

Nii-sama glanced at me. Oh yeah, Nii-sama hasn't done this either. In other words, the only person who has done it here is me, no wait, Nico too.

"I haven't done it before, either. But, I have met Hollows and felt my magic sway out of my body. I just replaced that and put in it a way that His Highness, Nicholas, would understand," Nii-sama said a little coldly.

"Then, let's try it."

"No, thanks."

The Prince looked at Nii-sama who had refused, and my heart was beating. I'm sure this is the long-winded up feeling I felt when I was Japanese. The Prince looked at me without flinching at all.

"If Luke won't do it, then Lei, won't you do it with me?"

"She won't," Nii-sama refused before I could answer.

"That way of speaking. You're exactly like Dean."

"Thank you," Nii-sama was curt.

"The point is that right? You don't want Lei to touch anyone."

"I'm-! I let her do it with Prince Nicholas because he's still young, but I don't want her to overuse her magic. She's only one!"

"Hmm."

Nii-sama is right on this. I straightened my posture that had weakened because of the Prince. I was about to send magic to him.

"Then, Luke, you do it."

"That's-."

"You can't?"

"... I think I can."

You can just say you can't!

"If you don't like being touched, then how about we shake our magic outside like Hollows do."

Nii-sama looked empty and went silent. Come to think of it, why do Hollows resound in our bodies? Even if we magic users are near each other, our bodies don't resonate.

No.

There was a time when it did.

I looked up at Nii-sama in surprise, and he also looked surprised.

With the barrier!

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 118 - Chapter 118: His Highness, Nicholas

Chapter 118: His Highness, Nicholas

A knock came at the door as if it was tearing the tense aura in the room. Then, the door opened, and the person who showed up was... "Otou-syama!"

"Lei! Luke!"

Otou-sama crouched down and opened his eyes wide as I ran up to him.

"I heard you were practising magic, so I came because I was worried. Was everything alright?"

"Ai. Nico ish greath." It was a suitable answer. Though, I could see that he clearly didn't care about Nico. Honestly.

"So, Luke, did you have any trouble?"

"That's..." Onii-sama looked at Nico's father, then looked down.

"Oh, Your Highness. I'm sorry, I didn't notice you."

I almost laughed at Otou-sama who really didn't notice the Prince. That was close.

"You wnow, you wnow, Nico'sh Otou-syama..."

"Oh, His Highness?"

I thought I'll tell Otou-sama now.

"He wanthsh Nii-syama channew magic outh."

"Oh."

I felt the temperature in the room rapidly drop. Otou-sama hugged me tightly, then put me down and faced Nico's father, who looked stiff.

"Have you ever heard of people exchanging magic, Your Highness?"

"N-no. That's why I want to try it once." Nico said something unnecessary to Otou-sama. I thought this the other day, but Nico's father might be a little, just a little dim-witted. I looked at him again. Hmm. Isn't he still too naïve for someone in his twenties?

Otou-sama shrugged.

"We don't know what would happen if we absorb other people's magic, that's why only Lei can do it since she did it accidentally."

"Oh, is that so? B-but, Luke said he could do it." I think Nico's father said something even worse.

"Only the theory. Even I know the theory of it. But rational adults wouldn't dare do it even if they know they can."

He's right. I looked at Otou-sama in admiration. When I think about it, I've only seen him act indifferently, gentle, and loving towards me. This is the first time I've ever seen him give reasonable arguments like a capable adult.

"Otou-syama, coow..."

"Lei!"

Otou-sama immediately hugged me and rubbed his face against mine.

"Otou-syama, You're wiwe a capabwe pershon!"

"That's right! Otou-sama is capable, isn't he?"

"Coow!"

"Hahaha."

We made a racket and someone quietly spoke to us, "Otou-sama and Lei." It was Nii-sama. We stopped moving.

"Oh, sorry."

"Ai..."

Nii-sama got mad because we were too loud.

"That's enough. I think I've already taught Prince Nicholas how to handle his magic today, so handle this matter between you adults. Now, Lei and Your Highness, Nicolas."

Nico and I quietly walked to where Nii-sama and Gill were.

"Now, what shall we do now?"

"Play outside!"

"Pway!"

He wasn't angry, he proposed a good idea!

"Then, let's go outside. Go get your jackets."

"Ok!"

"Aai."

We're going to play outside now.

However, I fell asleep in less than 30 minutes while playing hide-and-seek and was carried to the bed in the library. Too bad. Let's play indoors next time.

◊♦◊♦◊♦◊

Lei and His Highness (Luke's Perspective)

"Doesn't Lei sleep too much?"

"Your Highness. I'm not too sure about this, but I think this is normal."

"Really?" His Highness replied as he watched Lei, who was sleeping soundly on the small bed.

"What do you do when Lei sleeps like this?"

"Hmm. I wonder if she would get bigger and watch her."

"I, I'm jealous."

"Why?" His Highness looked up at me curiously.

"I'm usually at the academy dormitories. I'm jealous that you get to see her every day."

"But, we have to study in the morning, then have lunch separately. We only get to play a little after lunch, then she falls asleep. Albans takes her home after she wakes up."

"But don't you have fun while studying?"

"Hmm. Lei is good at persuading Odds-sensei, so we spend less time studying, and we get to play more."

When I thought that would be something she would do, I couldn't help but smile. She definitely fooled the tutor with her cuteness.

"But, Lei doesn't grow bigger even though I watch her a lot."

Well, yeah. While watching Lei sleep cutely, I looked at the unsatisfied Prince Nicholas and found it funny.

"Now then, it's my turn." Gill, who hadn't done much until now, was enthusiastic.

"Lei is a good girl, but she's smaller and weaker than Your Highness. She can only be your playmate. We finally get to skip school, so let's train our bodies together."

"Train our bodies?"

"Yeah, train with swords. We'll move around using our bodies."

"Let's do it!"

His Highness's eyes sparkled, and he no longer had Lei in his eyes. Playing with Gill, the training maniac, will be proper training for him.

"Then, let's start with tree climbing."

""I can climb trees?!"

His Highness hadn't been allowed to climb trees because it was dangerous.

"It's alright since I'm there."

Yes, it'll be alright since Gill is there. I turned back to Lei. I thought I could only watch her nap during my days off. I gently brushed her curly hair, and it went back to its position once my hand brushed over it.

"Oi."

My cute sister.

"Oi."

"What Gill?"

I turned back because he was annoying.

"You're coming too."

"I don't want to."

"Our job starts from when we get here until we leave. Watching Lei is a side benefit. And, you've been slacking off on your training because you're relieved that Lei is back."

Even though no one could win against me at the academy. I thought he wouldn't find out since we're in different grades.

"When the time comes, we'll be facing adults. If you keep slacking off, then you won't be able to protect Lei when the time comes."

"What the hell are you talking about?"

"You can't say it won't happen again, right?" Gill said sternly, and I reluctantly stood up.

"Natalie, don't let Lei feel lonely when she wakes up."

"I understand. I'll call you straight away."

"Hans."

"I'm keeping watch."

I lifted my eyebrows at His Highness who looked excited, then looked at Lei's sleeping face again, before going outside with Gill and His Highness.

"Lei won't wake up even if you stare at her or shake her."

"Did you shake her?"

"A little."

I looked at His Highness in shock. Did you do that? I might have to cut Hans's pay.

I had a more pleasant afternoon than I thought.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 119 - Front, Bam

Chapter 119: Front, Bam

By the time I woke up from my nap, Otou-sama had come to pick us up, and it was time to go home.

"I onwy goth tho pway a withthwe bith!" (I only got to play a little bit!) I got angry, and Nico looked at me pitifully.

"Lei, quickly grow up. We could have played if you didn't nap. Climbing trees is fun."

What?! I looked at Nico, Nii-sama and Gill as if I couldn't believe them. Nii-sama and Gill averted their eyes awkwardly.

"Cwimbing threesh! Onwy Nico!"

"You can't climb trees anyways."

"I can! I can!"

Hasn't it been decided that I can climb? I can climb on the heads of Rug Dragons.

"Argh, I'm going home!"

Starting tomorrow is the weekend, so I'll climb trees with Nii-sama at home. Nico spoke to me while I was still angry, "Lei."

Argh. Don't call me such a lonely voice.

"See you thomorrow, I mean, nexth weew."

"Yeah! See you next week."

I found myself in Otou-sama's arms and waved at the smiling Nico. We can't end the day with a quarrel. Isn't it sad to recall an angry or sad face after separating?

"Tree cwimbing. Tree cwimbing," I sang, and Otou-sama, Nii-sama and Natalie watched me in amusement. Gill went home in his own carriage, and he looked bored.

"Gill and I won't come for a week even if you're looking forward to it."

"Nii-syama, thomorrow!"

I never thought about climbing trees until now, and I didn't see any trees with branches at home, but it's vast, so there should be a tree I could climb.

"But, isn't that dangerous for you, Lei?"

"Luke."

Otou-sama shook his head at Nii-sama.

"It's better that she climbs trees where we can see her instead of climbing on the heads of the Rug Dragons when we're not looking."

"Huh? Did Lei do that?"

"Uh-."

I looked out the carriage. Nii-sama sighed in amazement and warned me, "Make sure someone can see you when you practice climbing trees." This means okay.

"Ai!"

That's a good answer for me. But, it's a secret that Hans couldn't prevent me from climbing the Rug Dragons even when he was watching me.

Then, we happily went home, had a fun dinner, and later gathered in Otou-sama's room.

"We managed to suppress His Highness's recklessness."

"Yes. I carelessly said that I could do it."

Otou-sama and Nii-sama reflected.

"But, I was shocked when he asked why the Hollows resonated with us."

"Did he say something like that?"

Otou-sama, you're mentioning him in a disrespectful way.

"I think it's good that we can connect the resonation of Hollows with projecting our magic out of our bodies. It's not just us, the hunters in Frontier also understand this with their bodies, and Lei learnt it when she was in Frontier."

"But, they didn't think their magic would resonate with other people. Why would they need to do something like that in the first place?"

"You're right. But, Otou-sama..."

"What?"

Nii-sama stared at Otou-sama.

"Lei and I noticed it straight away. Our magic has resonated with each other's before, hasn't it?"

"... At the barrier?"

"Yes."

I also nodded.

"Then, does this mean that Hollows are expanding barriers out of their bodies?"

"But then, why would they need to?"

"Hmm."

It's a difficult question.

"Howwowsh become magic shthonesh."

"That's right."

"We become magic shthonesh?"

"We won't. That's impossible."

Nii-sama answered my question, then muttered, "People with magic don't change into magic stones, but Hollows change into magic stones no matter how weak the person they absorb is. Why is that?"

"They don't have a body, but perhaps their magic is incredible."

"That's why they naturally dispel that magic out of their bodies, and it resonates with our bodies..."

"Then why don'th you thry expewwing a woth of magic?" (Then why don't you try expelling a lot of magic?)

Otou-sama and Nii-sama looked at me.

"Magic thhath ishn'th changed intho a barrier."

"Are you saying we should try expelling pure magic out of our bodies?"

"Ai."

If you do that, then you may be able to interfere with other people's magic a little.

We fell silent. We were each thinking about different things. But, when we looked at each other again, the words that came out of Otou-sama's mouth were, "Shall we try it?" If Linus were here, he might have stopped us by saying, "That's why the Albans are..." But, each of us was an Albans.

"We won't know until we try it."

"Ai.

It was decided that we would try.

"Lei can mawe a barrier. Lei wiww thry."

"Hmm. I thought you or Luke would be the one who projects your magic out. Then, Otou-sama will receive the magic."

"Otou-sama..."

"The receiver is probably the one in the most danger. Adults should do it."

Nii-sama looked like he wanted to do it, but Otou-sama stopped him.

I faced Otou-sama on the bed, and sat as close to him as I could.

"No change intho barrier. Tawe outh jushth ash ith ish."

Instead of expanding it into a circle around me, I sent it straight at Otou-sama.

"Here goesh."

"Hmm."

Magic formed in front of me, then bam.

"Gah, bah."

Otou-sama slowly fell back.

"Otou-sama!"

"Otou-syama!"

We clung to Otou-sama.

"I, I'm fine," Otou-sama managed to reply weakly, then gently hugged the two of us.

"Otou-syama... Sowwy..."

I'm glad. I'm really glad. I was on the verge of tears.

"Lei and Luke, this is bad. We've realised something unthinkable."

"What the hell happened?! I could see the magic, but what happened!? Why did you fall all of a sudden?!"

Nii-sama yelled at Otou-sama.

"Wait a minute. Calm down a bit, oh, don't cry you two. Otou-sama's fine."

I ended up crying because Nii-sama was yelling, and Nii-sama also ended up crying from shock. By the time we were tired from crying and quietened down, Otou-sama had managed to recover.

"Then, the conclusion is..." Otou-sama started talking after he sat back up. Nii-sama and I continued to cling to Otou-sama.

"Well, before that, I want to ask what happened to the magic from the outside."

"I saw it," Nii-sama whispered. What did you see?

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 120 - Falling off a Horse (But it's a Dragon)

Chapter 120: Falling off a Horse (But it's a Dragon)

"It looked like the magic that always perfectly overlapped you was pushed by Lei's magic and flew behind you."

"So, it was like that," Otou-sama nodded. It was hard for me to be aware of my own magic, so I remembered seeing Otou-sama's surprised expression before he fell.

"Phu, eeh."

I almost cried again when I remembered it.

"Lei, it's okay. I'm fine now."

"A-ai."

I pressed my face into his knee, and he rubbed my head.

"I made you experience something painful. That's right, it was like I was being hit with someone's palm. My magic repelled out of me from my back, then I fell," Otou-sama analysed quietly.

"It didn't hurt, but there was impact. I can tell now that something in our bodies reacts as a defense mechanism when other magic invades the body," he said and patted Nii-sama and me.

Then, he continued, "Well, Lei, let's try it again."

I quickly looked up.

"No! Otou-syama wiww faww again."

"Yes! It's hard on Lei too!" Nii-sama desperately tried to stop him.

"No, Lei. You were worried that your magic wouldn't reach me before, so you used a lot of force, didn't you Lei?"

"Ai."

I think I projected more magic than when I would using a barrier.

"Then, this time, make a small circle around you like when you make barriers instead of forcing it out in front of you."

"Then I'll do it!"

"Luke. Of course, you'll do it later. But, let Lei do this. Lei."

Otou-sama looked at me seriously.

"She'll be afraid to use magic from now on if she doesn't do this now. She can climb Rug Dragons. You can do it, right?"

If you fall off a horse, you get back on it right away. That's what he means. Even if this world doesn't have horses, but dragons, it means the same thing.

I was able to survive in Frontier because I had magic. Even if magic wouldn't be useful to me from now on, it doesn't mean I should abandon it. I can't be afraid of it or run away from it. I lifted my face.

"Ai, Lei wiww do it."

"Lei!"

I separated myself from Otou-sama and faced him like I did earlier. Nii-sama went behind me as if he'd given up when he saw my resolution, and gently leaned against me.

"Don't think about attacking with magic. Think of magic wrapping around me, and I'll do the same."

"Ai."

Gentle, soft, and small. I expelled my magic as if it was wrapping around Otou-sama.

"I see, this is..."

"Oh, it resonates gently, Lei. That's enough."

I was scared to open my eyes.

"Ith didn'th hurth?"

Otou-sama looked at me gently and nodded. Nii-sama who was behind me, softly patted my head.

"I'm okay. How about you, Lei?"

"Magic thouch and shwaysh."

"It was the same for Otou-sama. Maybe it's because our magic was close, but it was good to find out that magic interferes with each other." He nodded in satisfaction.

"Then, next is me."

"Ok."

I thought it would turn out like this, geez.

Otou-sama must have thought he was gentle, but the spread of magic was still quite powerful. Nii-sama and I were taken aback.

"You repewwed withh a bam."

"It was like a strong wind was blowing!"

However, this much wasn't scary. Nii-sama's eyes were sparkling.

"Fun."

"It's fun! Then, I'm next!"

Nii-sama is good at handling his magic, after all.

"Then, how about we just aim for Lei's arm?"

"Wow! I wanna be thicwwed!" (I wanna be tickled.)

It had been shocking at first, but it was a fun day. But it's about time I went to bed. When Otou-sama saw me yawning, he quickly said, "Oh, you played too much. It's time for you to go to bed."

"Ai."

It's better to sleep early so I can play a lot tomorrow instead of forcing myself to stay awake.

"Tree cwimbing."

"Let's look for a good tree to climb tomorrow, alright?" ."

"Ai..."

Nii-sama carried me to my room when I got really sleepy.

"Goodnighth."

"Yes, goodnight."

I fell asleep straight away.

◊♦◊♦◊♦◊ Otou-sama's Perspective

"We did something unnecessary again."

"I don't think it's good to try things just because we think it's interesting."

"One of us should tell the others to stop."

"None of us would say that."

I thought I wasn't interested in anything. Luke didn't want to say that he wanted to do this or that himself. Therefore, we were surprised at ourselves for being interested in the things we tried since Lei came.

"Anyway, it's bad to make Lei cry."

"We needed to try it one more time, right?"

I quietly closed my eyes at Luke's words.

"If we want her to live a normal baby life without worrying about anything, then we should let her forget about magic."

Luke is an excellent heir, so it doesn't matter if Lei has no magic.

"But, Lei survived in Frontier because she had magic, and was curious about mastering it."

"You're right."

Luke also nodded.

"If she cowers towards everything, then she'll go back to how she was when she first came back to the mansion. A Lei who has lost fear and curiosity isn't Lei."

"Lei is Lei no matter how she is. But, the usual her is more like herself, so it's more fun."

The Lei, who always faces down and acts smart, isn't Lei at all. Above all, she isn't an Albans.

"But, I don't want the royal family to use her to amuse themselves any further. I'll let Prince Lambert experience magic directly."

"Do it softly. Prince Lambert aside, Lei feels better thanks to Prince Nicholas."

Isn't it alright to be a little rough on him? But, this isn't the time to be thinking about this, there's something else we have to think about.

"Oh yes, I thought about celebrating your 12th birthday and Lei's 2nd together. What do you think?"

I think not having her 1st debut backfired on us. It would be better if I show her off as a cute daughter of the Albans to noble society.

"I don't mind. I think we need to show off Lei's cuteness and how important she is to us."

Luke also understands. He had a rough idea of who kidnapped Lei in Frontier. However, we had no evidence or reason to link that person to Lei's kidnapping in the royal capital. The criminal is still unknown.

"He shouldn't have a reason to kidnap her again, but we don't even know why he did in the first place. Although, if a child who is close to the royal family is taken, then it'll cause a big fuss this time. Let's show her off instead of hiding her."

"I actually just want her to stay as our Lei."

Me too. But, the option to hide her was eliminated when I let her be the Prince's playmate. I'll make people recognise her as an Albans. That's the goal this time.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 121 - Nii-sama's Birthday

Chapter 121: Nii-sama's Birthday

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

The tree was actually very low, and I somehow managed to climb the rugged tree, but I was no match for Nico, nor was I match for Gill or Nii-sama. Still, I did my best at climbing and stood on the lower branch. From there, I could look down a little bit at Nico and Nii-sama, and I could also see a little further.

A little distance away, Hans was grinning, and Natalie looked worried as she held her hands together. Still, I folded my arms and looked off into the distance. I should be able to fold my arms soon. Then, Nico also climbed the tree, and Nii-sama was here, so he took me off the branch straight away. And just like that, my climb was ruined in many ways.

Nico and I were quite satisfied since we were able to do something other than running in the cold wind.

Nii-sama and Gill would visit the castle occasionally to train magic, study and play. By the time our routine was set, it was already December. I enjoyed my dinner with Otou-sama like always, and he said that I would have my debut in January.

"Debuth?"

"Yeah. It's to declare that this house had this child. People usually have a big party and invite a lot of other people."

"Lei'sh firshth thime."

"That's right. It's actually something you do when the baby is a year old, but you had that incident."

"Incidenth?"

"Yes, mm, it was when you channelled your magic into the magic stone. At that time, I thought that I shouldn't show you off to the world, but it was a mistake. I should have let everyone know that you were an Albans's child." Otou-sama looked like he was suffering when he said this, and I also felt sad.

Thinking back, I recall Hannah and the other maids talking about why I didn't have a debut. Two rumours were floating about at that time. One was that I was too cute to show off, and the other was that I was being neglected. In the end, Otou-sama really did treasure me at that time.

"I don'th need a debuth."

"I can't have that. I'm going to let all the nobles know about you this time. Prince Nicholas will also attend, so this will show that the royal family won't stay silent if someone were to make a move on you. Uh, I mean, it's a threat stating that the royal family will go after them if they kidnap you."

"Ai."

Otou-sama still seemed to be on guard, but I don't think I will be kidnapped again.

"Luke's birthday is in December, so we're going to celebrate that together with your debut. Luke and I both don't like flashy things, so we usually celebrate it with family every year."

I tilted my head. I wonder if they celebrated it last year.

"You still couldn't eat solid food on Luke's birthday last year, so you fell asleep after having a lick of the cake."

I see I wasn't even a year old at that time, so I don't remember anything apart from eating mashed vegetables and soup. Huh, will he not celebrate his birthday in December this year?

"Nii-syama noth cewebrathing hish birthhday in December?"

"We don't have any plans to celebrate it."

That won't do!

"When ish hish birthhday?"

"It's next weekend."

I have to hurry! That day, I talked to Natalie before going to bed.

"I wanth tho cewebrathe Nii-shyama'sh birthhday."

"Luke-sama's? But, we already started preparing since he will celebrate it when you have your debut in January."

"I wanth tho give him shomethhing."

"You do? Mm..."

Natalie tilted her head and thought with me.

"Leila-sama, you're good at drawing, so how about drawing something for him?"

"Otou-syama wiww be annoyed."

"Ah, yes. Certainly."

Otou-sama will be shocked because he didn't receive one first.

"It's still too early for you to start embroidering. Commoners make handmade sweets, but you still can't move your hands well."

"Nii-syama doeshn'th wiwe shweethsh much."

"I see."

Actually, Nii-sama doesn't really like sweets that much. That's why I always think he's too thin. No, wait. It's fine as long as it isn't sweet?

"No eashy tho mawe food?"

"Something you can make? Let's see, if it's just mixing, then... Oh, yes!"

"Whath?"

"What about mashed potatoes? They're made from potatoes that Leila-sama and Luke-sama love so much!"

"Pothatho!"

I love potatoes.

"If you say that you left the boiling and sauce to the chef, and mashed the potatoes yourself, then I'm sure Luke-sama will be happy!"

"Oway!"

I can mashed potatoes.

"Then, I'ww feed Nii-shyama."

"He'll be overjoyed. Oh yes, Leila-sama."

"Whath?"

Natalie gave me a proposal with sparkling eyes. Alright, done!

"All the maids will be happy."

Natalie smiled.

◊♦◊♦◊♦◊ Best Birthday Celebration (Nii-sama's Perspective)

"Why? I haven't seen Leila since my afternoon nap."

"The maids surrounded Leila and took her away."

Otou-sama also thought that something was different from usual. Even so, it was already time to eat, but Leila still hasn't appeared.

"What is this? The gardener is still wandering around at this time. And, there are lots of things in this room for some reason."

Otou-sama looked around the room as if he had just noticed. The people in the room suddenly got busy. There were certainly more people than usual. But, the door opened straight away, and food was brought in.

"Wait, where's Lei? No, oh."

"Where did she go? Huh."

She was holding a plate of mashed potatoes and tottering this way.

"Lei, why are you dressed like that...?"

A small maid uniform with a white apron. A white brim on her head and her cheeks were red. Oh, the plate's going to drop! I almost stood up.

"I'm oway."

"Lei..."

Lei tried her best to stretch out her hands, and put the plate in front of me. Of course, Natalie was behind her so that she wouldn't drop the plate or fall down.

"Nii-syama, happy birthhday."

"Lei, this is..."

Lei stuck out her nose and puffed her chest out, "Lei made ith." Her white apron lightly swayed.

"For me?"

"Ai!"

Why, why is she so cute? I got up from my chair and hugged her tightly.

"It's the best present!"

"Happy 12thh birthhday."

"Thanks."

We bumped our foreheads together. As if this was a signal, people brought food to where Otou-sama was sitting.

"Where's Otou-sama's potatoes? Say, Lei, where's Otou-sama's potatoes?"

Lei looked away.

"I'ww mawe ith on Otou-shyama'sh birthhday."

"What?! Are you telling me to wait until August?! Luke, give me some."

"No. This is all mine!"

"Nii-syama, aah?"

"YES!"

"Lei, Otou-sama too!"

"No."

It was a lot, but I ate it all. I won't forget my 12th birthday.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 122 - Two Years Old

Chapter 122: Two Years Old

After Nii-sama's birthday in December, I celebrated my second birthday when I felt that my chubby limbs had gotten a bit slimmer.

"At this time last year, I thought that I would spend my days happy without any worries forever. And last summer, I was prepared for it to take a few years before Lei returned to us. I'm thrilled that I'm able to spend your second birthday with you." Early in the morning on the day of my debut, Nii-sama came into my room, woke me up and said.

"Nii-syama..."

I certainly wanted to return, but I also enjoyed my life in Frontier. I felt bad for that.

"Nii-syama, Lei had wothsh of fun."

"Lei, I wouldn't normally call getting kidnapped twice in six months fun."

That's true, but I got over it by the third time, and thought nothing of it. The minds of babies are so convenient. There are good things that come with being young.

"Jeez, you're easy going by nature."

That's not true. It's because I'm a baby.

"Now Lei, happy birthday. We'll be celebrating your second birthday in the afternoon. There'll be children after all. Get up quickly and let's go get ready. Ojii-sama came from the northern fief today. I'm looking forward to it."

"Ojii-syama!"

I woke up after hearing this.

"It's Claire-kaasama's Otou-sama. He has brown eyes like Okaa-sama, and is very kind."

"Wow, I'm woowing forward tho meething him!"

He was going to come earlier, but barely ended up making it here, so he'll be staying at the mansion for a few days starting from today. I heard he's good at riding Rug Dragons, so I'm sure he'll let me ride with him.

"His Highness will also be here. Lei just needs to look nice and smile at lots of people. No, you don't even have to smile at them," Nii-sama started muttering.

"Nii-syama. I'ww shmiwe. Everyone have fun."

"You're right, for me I'll smile as much as I can if it would finish with that."

I feel like what Nii-sama and I are thinking about different things. Nii-sama suddenly looked serious and peeked out the window.

"We're celebrating my birthday today too, so it seems like Diana-okaasama will be coming, even though it's fine if she doesn't."

"Nii-syama..."

"Otou-sama is a complicated person. Even if the person in question intends to live a simple life, his forwardness and unwavering personality can sometimes hurt people. I know that."

I'm sure he was implying that he was selfish for wanting Otou-sama by his side. However, his 12-year-old pride didn't let him utter those words.

"Now, let's get ready. This is your first party. You can enjoy it to the fullest."

"Ai!"

That morning, I took a bath and dried my soft, fluffy hair. Then, I was dressed in a white dress with a lot of purple embroidery on it. It was a little longer than the dresses I usually wear and the maid outfit I wore the other day. It even covered my calves.

I twirled. The hem was soft, by the way, so is my hair.

"Oh my, Leila-sama. We're not done. Next, we're going to wrap this around you."

The maid brought a thin purple chiffon. She wrapped it around my waist and tied a big ribbon at the back. Don't I look like a present? The same thing happened the other day, but a different maid was in charge of changing me into outfits I wasn't used to. Today, Natalie is accompanying me while looking happy.

"People normally wear white on their debut. Even if they didn't, the Albans uniform is white, so Master and Luke-sama will also be wearing white. How wonderful! It's amazing to see all three of you together!"

Some maids even started crying.

"You're finally back, but you go to the castle every day. So everyone is lonely because the castle took you away from us." Natalie explained. That may be true.

We, who were excited, were on the second floor, but when I looked out the window, I could see gorgeous carriages pulled by Rug Dragons arriving at the garden one after the other, and dressed up men and women getting off the carriages.

Relatives' children aside, is it fun to see children you don't know? I thought, and Natalie explained, "Master has already warmed up old friendships before the debut, and there are people who come from far away like Luke-sama's Okaa-sama, and your Ojii-sama, so it's a rare opportunity for them to interact with others."

Oh yeah, they're not here just to see me. I felt relieved when I thought that and relaxed.

"Leila-sama, you look relieved."

"Reawwy?"

I put my hands on my cheeks. I didn't know that.

"Oh my, Leila-sama."

Laughter echoed in the room. The maids continued to talk happily.

"We're also looking forward to it. We can see nobles who we usually don't get to see."

"I'm looking forward to seeing Molesey-sama. His cool wintery eyes are amazing."

"I want to see Gill Lisburn-sama. His growth is so dazzling."

"Apparently the Remington Ojou-sama is coming too. All the Four Marquises will be here! It's a spectacle."

Remington.

I was a little nervous. Otou-sama and Nii-sama said the Remingtons had nothing to do with my kidnapping. But, I wonder if that's true. Everyone will think that there's no other mastermind apart from the Remingtons who have a reputation of being bottom feeders.

But, I remember Hannah's painful reactions and the word Remington that she had uttered with a shaky voice.

"Let's eat a little something first."

"Ai!"

I was wrapped in a big apron and passed a small sandwich.

"The chefs made a lot of delicious food today, but they said they'll keep some for you, so don't worry."

"Ai!"

That's good. I was anxious about how I would pinch food off the table during my debut. I ate my light snack with peace of mind.

When I finished wiping my hands and mouth, I heard a knock at the door.

"Come on, it's about time. I wonder if Luke-sama came to pick you up."

"We'll be waitressing from now on, so we'll look out for you."

The maids said. The people in the mansion got pretty close since Nii-sama's birthday. I'm sure they're going to watch over me as they observe the other nobles.

"Now, Lei, it's about time. Oh?"

"Wow."

He wore a lustrous white coat with purple embroidery on the collar of it, thin black trousers, and well-polished shoes. His long blonde hair was silky.

"You look cute."

"Coow."

Our voices overlapped, and we laughed.

"Now, let's walk to the stairs in a way that won't wrinkle your clothes."

"Of courshe. I'ww waww carefuwwy. I can even run."

"You mustn't run. Let's hold hands and walk slowly."

'I'll enjoy every step,' I thought I heard him say. Now, let's go to my debut.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 123 - Debut

Chapter 123: Debut

Reborn on break next week until my editor gets back. Sorry! >.<

I had fun with my fluffy dress as I walked with Nii-sama. We reached the stairs in no time at all, and my tension flew away.

"Lei!"

Otou-sama ran up the stairs in a boorish way.

"Otou-syama!"

I reached my hands out like always, and Otou-sama swept me up, then laughed. As soon as this happened, "Ooh..." people from downstairs started getting noisy, and I was shocked. I completely forgot since I was enjoying my time with Nii-sama, but it's my debut today.

"Do you want to be held as you're being introduced, Lei? Or do you want to stand?"

Otou-sama's eyes were saying that I should be held, but that wouldn't be good.

"Down."

"What about being held?"

"Down."

"Fine."

Otou-sama hugged me with regret and gently walked down the stairs.

"I'll let you down when we get past the middle. Then, say your name and curtsy. That's all you have to do. Can you do it?"

"Ai."

I'll be fine. I practised how to curtsy. I'm giving my greetings on the stairs, so I don't have to lower or cross my legs. I just need to bend my knees a little and stand back up. Otou-sama pulled my right hand and walked three steps ahead of me. Nii-sama walked one step to the left of me. Otou-sama strolled, then stopped, and let go of my hand.

I looked forward, and there were a lot of people. I smiled. Ah no, I'm supposed to say hello.

"I'm Leiwa Awbansh. "

Then, I bent my knee a little and straightened my back. I wasn't just lowering my head.

Warm applause broke out with a cheer. I looked up at Otou-sama and he laughed as if I did well. I looked at Nii-sama, and he nodded and smiled.

After the clapping subsided, Otou-sama lifted me up and put me on one arm, while he wrapped his other arm around Nii-sama's shoulders.

"Although her debut has been delayed because of certain reasons, it is the second birthday of my beloved daughter, Leila Albans. My heir, Luke Albans, has also turned 12. I want you to celebrate both of their birthdays with them today," Otou-sama said, then Nii-sama bowed, and music started playing.

"There are a lot of people, so stay with Otou-sama, Lei."

"Ai."

Nii-sama is Nii-sama, so a lot of people spoke to him because he was the heir of the Albans. There was delicious food and a variety of drinks arranged on tables around the room.

"Otou-syama, juice."

"You have a good appetite."

Otou-sama laughed. Even if the chefs had left some food aside for me, I would eat delicious food if I have the chance to. It's important to eat them. Observe people because it's your debut, you say? There are too many people. Someone will probably approach me.

A lot of people went to Nii-sama, but no one approached Otou-sama and I. I never would have thought then that they didn't approach us was because Otou-sama was smiling and it made everyone hesitate.

"Dean!"

"Harold. And Marcus."

Everyone suddenly moved aside, and two people approached us. I wonder if they're parent and child. They both have the same grey hair and eyes.

"So this is your lovely daughter who has just returned? She's so cute."

His grey eyes which were like winter clouds gently softened.

"Father, you have to introduce yourself first. I'm Marcus. Marcus Molesey."

"Marcush."

"That's right. I'm fine with Mark too."

"Marw. I'm Lei."

Oh, oops. I have to tell him my surname. I got influenced by his tone.

"What, Marcus? How can you introduce yourself before me? I'm Harold Molesey. You can call me Har-ojisama1)."

"Father, how can you ask her to call you Har-ojisama..."

Marcus was shocked. Well, if he says it's fine, then it's okay.

"Har-ojisyama, I'm Lei."

"You called him Oji-sama? Mm, fine..."

Otou-sama looked at him with cold eyes.

"Harold, you didn't even want me to call you Harold. What's the meaning of this?"

"What, Dean? Are you telling me you want this cute little baby to call me Molesey?"

"Th-that's..."

Yes, Otou-sama lost.

"L-Lei."

On the other hand, Gill's Otou-sama was the one who was shocked. Next to him, Gill put a hand over his eyes, and his expression said, 'oh no'.

"I'm not going to introduce you again, Stan."

"B-but..."

Gill's Otou-sama quickly raised his hand.

"She's never called me by my name before. Let alone calling me Oji-sama. Lei, I want you to call me Stan-ojisama."

Nii-sama and Gill's eyes said, 'call him that already. He's annoying'.

"Sthan-ojisyama."

"Lei!"

"It's pointless even if you reach out to her. I won't let you hold her."

"I can't hold her today, either!?"

The wave of people separated again as if aiming for the lively place. Then, a small child rushed towards us.

"Nico!"

"Lei!"

I ran up to Nico when Otou-sama put me down.

"Lei, happy birthday."

"Thanwsh."

"Lei doesn't have to sleep that much now that she's turned two, right?"

"I, I don'th wnow abouth thhath."

Nico seemed satisfied, but I don't think that you would suddenly sleep less just because you turn two. However, it's quite heartbreaking to smash his hopes, so I answered vaguely.

"It's my first time in the Albans mansion, but the garden is huge. Lei, why don't we play over there?"

"Ai! Oh, I can'th."

I was moved by the word 'play', but I was the star of today.

"Nico, you can't force her to play. Lei's the star today."

"Nico's Otou-syama!"

"Happy birthday, Lei. I heard you guys talking. Call me Lambert-ojisama too."

"Lam."

"Wait, Lei," Otou-sama stopped me.

"Your Highness. Could you stop acting like we're the royal family's favourites? How can you show up at my daughter's birthday? You're a pain."

Oh, that's harsh. Everyone became quiet at once.

"The royal family and the Four Marquises are on equal footing. There's no being in a higher or lower position, so there are no playing favourites. Everyone knows that." His Highness Lambert raised his voice a little and waved his hand at everyone. Some people agreed with what he had said, and some didn't.

Are the royal family and the Four Marquises on good terms or not? Or, is it not good for them to get along? I don't know which it was.

"I'm just a father who is accompanying his child. Everyone, enjoy the party," Nico's Otou-sama said, and the party became lively again. Then, he crouched down in front of me, and when I looked at him, he whispered, "Say, Lei, call me Lam-ojisama."

It's easy to say that, but when I stared at him and Nico standing next to each other, their blonde hair and golden eyes were blinding.

"Nico, you woow wiwe your Otou-syama." (You look like your Otou-sama.)

"Really?! Well, he is my father."

"Exactly alike."

I looked at them happily.

"Say, Lei."

"Ai, Lam-ojisyama," I answered in a tiny voice so that other people couldn't hear me and the three of us laughed.

"Oh, she's cute. Is she your daughter?" A lady's voice said. Who?

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 124 - People who Can't Read Between the Lines

Chapter 124: People who Can't Read Between the Lines

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

"Ange." Otou-sama's voice was gentle. This was rare. Prince Lambert and Nico put their smiles back onto their faces and stood up.

"Oh, Your Highnesses, you two are here."

The person named Ange looked gentle and pleasant, and she laughed as if she was having fun. Then, she bent her knees and curtsied beautifully. This was an adult's greeting. It was something that I wasn't taught as an Albans because there were no women around. I'll remember it. The lady had light brown hair that looked like tea with lots of milk, and her jade eyes looked like green tea with a hint of milk.

"Prince Nicholas, it's been a long time."

"Hmm. Angelique-dono. I haven't seen you since my birthday."

Can Nico really remember an adult who he met six months ago? I was impressed. But well, I still remember the face of the guy who kidnapped me.

"Thank you for remembering. Please come to my daughter's birthday as well."

She stroked his head gently as if he was a good boy. I pricked my ears up when I heard she had a daughter. I might be able to make some girl friends.

"I don't know about that. I'm not friends with the Remington girl," Nico said bluntly. He's a smart child, but he wasn't considerate. The adults froze. This kid, honestly.

"You are younger than my daughters. Then, please become friends with them if it's alright with you. I'll introduce them to you again. This is my oldest daughter, Felicia. She's the Remington heir."

What? I can't believe her daughter was right next to her. Felicia was a slender girl who looked like Ange. She curtsied beautifully like her mother. She seemed to be the same age as Gill, or older.

"This is my youngest, Christine."

Christine had the same milk-tea coloured hair like her mother, but her eyes were the same milk-tea colour. It was really rare. She was a little bigger than Nico but smaller than Amy. So, she should be around five? The girl bent her knees a little awkwardly.

"Hmm. I've already met them before, so you don't need to introduce them again. Anyway..."

Nico looked at me. I was enjoying the scene as a spectacle, so I panicked when their attention was drawn to me.

"Today is Lei's birthday. You should congratulate her first."

A strange aura floated through the place. Nico had clearly pointed out what the adults were thinking but dared not say. I didn't know how to pacify the situation either, so I behaved cutely and left it to the adults.

"Well, it's true. Dear me."

Ange laughed again, then bent down and turned towards me. Her jade eyes were looking at me.

"You have the same violet eyes as Dean."

It was as if she was saying that was all I was worth.

"How cute. I'm Angelique Remington. This is my heir, Felicia, and this is Christine. Please get along well with them," she introduced and pushed her two daughters in front of me. I have to greet them properly too.

"I'm Leiwa Awbansh. Thanw you for coming thoday."

Then, I quickly bent my knees. This should look better than before. Near me, Hans nodded as if I did a good job, but I don't need his approval.

"Oh, I'm Felicia. Happy birthday. It's nice to meet you," the older sister smiled and said.

"Fewicia. I'm Lei."

"Fufufu."

She rubbed my head. However, the younger sister glared at me with her arms folded. Isn't she so proud, being able to fold her arms properly? If she's not going to say anything, then I'll say something.

"Chrishthine."

"Wait! It's Christine!"

That's what I said, wasn't it?

"Chrishthine."

"It's Ch-ri-st-ine!"

She cares about the details. Then...

"Chrish."

"That's too short!"

"I'm Lei."

"Are you listening to me?"

"Otou-syama, juice."

"Hey!"

If she's not going to say happy birthday to me, then I don't need to pay attention to her.

"Chris, you're the one who's not saying happy birthday to her."

"But, Nee-sama..."

"No buts. Now, say it."

Felicia told Christine off, and Christine looked at me.

"Happy birthday."

"Chrishthine."

"Fine! You can call me Chris. It sounds better."

I won and smiled.

"Chrish, I'm Lei."

Chris reluctantly looked at me and turned a bit away before saying, "... Lei."

"Ai!"

We're friends now.

"You're as pushy as ever, Ange."

"Oh my, Julia. You came too?"

A new person approached. She was a beautiful person with brown eyes and wavy brown hair.

"Dean, thanks for inviting me. And, oh my, you're Leila, aren't you?! You're just like I've heard you are. You look like Claire."

"Okaa-sama, you were here? I was looking for you."

Gill quickly came this way.

"I wanted to say hello together."

"I'm sorry."

This person also laughs pleasantly. Then, she looked at me and smiled.

"I'm Julia, Gill's mother. I've always wanted to meet you but didn't get the chance. I'm sorry."

She hesitated a little before reaching out to me.

"You're not a baby anymore, so I wonder if you don't like it."

That's not true. I reached out to her, and she gently lifted me up.

"Oh my, girls are soft. Gill wouldn't be able to stay still."

She laughed while holding me, and gently swayed me. That's right, this is a mother. I relaxed and put my face near her neck.

"Juwia-obasyama1)."

"Oh my. That's right. Lei."

"Ai."

"You should say that to Ange too."

I looked at Remington. The sides of her lips twitched.

"Ange-obasyama."

"Leila, people usually call me Ange-sama."

Sometimes, people don't want to be called Oba-sama. Then, I'll call you what you want to be called. When I tried to correct this.

"You're despicable, Ange. You're older than me. Honestly, and you still don't want to be called Oba-sama? If Felicia gets married, then you would be an obaa-sama, not an oba-sama."

"Obaa-sama?!" Ange muttered in shock. Mm, Julia-obasama is so strong.

"You guys get along like always. You're talking about such nice things." Otou-sama interrupted as if he was impressed. Both Julia-obasama and Ange-obasama's lips were warped, but he didn't notice.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 125 - Nii-sama's Okaa-sama

Chapter 125: Nii-sama's Okaa-sama

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

I felt like I lived in a gentle world even though I've been through dangerous situations. They weren't speaking to me, but their conversation was a little scary.

"Lei, I had fun."

I liked being hugged by Julia-obasama, but I didn't particularly enjoy their scary conversation.

"It's hard for people to come to congratulate you when the Four Marquises and the royal family are here. You should move around a bit."

Otou-sama nodded, and I glanced at the table in regret.

"Of course, let's get something to drink."

"Ai!"

Julia-obasama put me down, and I was able to get a drink. I was able to drink it while others watched to make sure I wouldn't spill it. Of course, no one tried to pour juice on me.

"Come now, it's dangerous to walk between adults."

Otou-sama picked me up as soon as I finished drinking. Then, we slowly walked, and Nii-sama joined us to talk to people. But, I stopped caring halfway through. For now, I just have to smile.

We walked around and met up with Gill's family again. I was relieved to see them again.

Julia-obasama looked at me gently and reached out to me again, so I was held by her again. I'm a little happy. Julia-obasama said while swaying me gently, "Luke, Diana's here."

"Julia-sama, I heard that she was coming."

"Yes."

Their conversation ended, and there was an awkward silence. Is Diana Nii-sama's birth mother?

Just then, I saw a woman strolling from the other side of the room as if their conversation was the signal. She had blonde hair and green eyes, looked the same age as Otou-sama. She was probably the same age as Julia-obasama, or a little younger, and had a calm aura.

"Diana-okaasama..." Nii-sama said. Otou-sama put a hand around Nii-sama when his shoulders started shaking. There was trust in Nii-sama's eyes when he looked up at Otou-sama.

People say that she was on bad terms with Otou-sama, so she divorced him and married another person. I heard that she kept Nii-sama at a distance because she didn't care about him much, but that's all I know. She walked as her high pony swayed behind her and stopped in front of Nii-sama.

"Luke, I haven't seen you since summer."

'Summer', when I was in Frontier. Does that mean they met during summer? I stared at Diana-sama in Julia-obasama's arms, and her eyes certainly showed that she was happy to see Nii-sama.

"Diana-okaasama."

"Happy 12th birthday, Luke."

"Thank you very much."

It was awkward, but I felt relieved because their aura was warm. However, Diana separated from Nii-sama awkwardly and turned towards me. Her eyes were opened wide.

"Oh, you have the same eyes as Luke."

Same as Nii-sama, not Otou-sama.

"You're the star today. Happy birthday. I'm Diana, Luke's Okaa-sama."

"I'm Leiwa Awbansh. Diana-obasama."

"My, how cute. Will you come to Oba-sama?"

She wasn't against being called Oba-sama. She also thinks children are cute. She wants to hold me, so she likes children. So why did she leave Nii-sama?

Of course, it's because he's the Albans heir. She couldn't bring him with her even if she wanted to. I don't know the truth. However, it looked to me as if she ran away from Nii-sama and Otou-sama like she did just before.

"Diana-obasama."

"What is it?"

"Reach outh to Nii-sama."

"Huh..."

Otou-sama was in the wrong first, but Diana-obasama is also in the wrong. I'm sure Nii-sama doesn't reach out to her because she doesn't say anything or reach out to him first.

"Nii-syama's Okaa-sama. Hug Nii-syama firshth."

For some reason, Julia-obasama hugged me tighter.

"Hug Luke."

Diana-obasama looked at Nii-sama as if asking if it was alright. Nii-sama had been staring at her since she arrived.

"Can Okaa-sama hug you, Luke?"

Otou-sama didn't say anything, since I shut him up with my eyes when it looked like he wanted to say something.

"If that's what you want to do."

Nii-sama looked down a bit. Diana-obasama timidly approached Nii-sama and reached out to him. He flinched back at first, but then let her hug him properly.

Compared to Otou-sama, Nii-sama looked like a small child, but when hugged by Diana-obasama, their heights weren't much different, and it made him look bigger.

"You've gotten bigger. You've grown up, but I wonder if you're like me. You're a lot nicer compared to how Dean was back then."

"I don't know if I'm nice or not."

I know that he's kind. Otou-sama, stay quiet. I turned my head towards Otou-sama, who looked like he wanted to say something.

"Was Otou-sama not kind?"

I don't think you should stick your nose into that.

"He didn't care no matter what I said or did. He was mean."

"I don't know if he's mean, but he's still the same indifferent Otou-sama."

"He doesn't change even though he's had a second child."

This time, I reached out to Otou-sama, who looked like he wanted to say something.

"Otou-syama."

"Lei."

Don't look as if you haven't held me for two days.

"I wanth tho drinw juice."

"Then, let's go. Luke."

"It's alright. Take Lei with you."

"Okay. Then, Diana, take your time."

"Thanks."

Leaving Nii-sama and Diana-obasama, we moved to the table. They're talking about something. That's good.

"Lei, I wish you had met Julia earlier."

"Ai."

But, does that mean you didn't let her see me?

"I should have given you a wet nurse, but the timing was off, and you might miss having a mother, so I kept all the women around that age away from you."

What? Then, maybe...

"Nico's Okaa-sama."

"I asked her not to come. I took away your mother, Clair, but I was scared you would miss her."

So that's why there are only middle-aged men around me? But I don't know what to say.

"Lei'sh awrighth. Lei wiwesh Julia-obasama and Diana-obasama."

"Even Diana? That's strange."

Isn't Diana-obasama cute? I feel like Otou-sama doesn't have eyes for women. It must have been a miracle for him to be able to marry my Okaa-sama.

And he didn't realise that I didn't say that I liked Ange-obasama.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 126 - Snacks are Waiting

Chapter 126: Snacks are Waiting

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

When we came back after walking around again, Nico looked bored.

"Lei, are we really not going to play today?"

I looked at Otou-sama. I finished greeting everyone, and the adults were busy warming up old friendships. It didn't seem like there would be any problems even if I weren't here.

"Otou-syama."

"Hmm."

A person from the Molesey house approached us when Otou-sama looked like he didn't want to let me go play.

"Dean, what's wrong? You have a more complicated expression than usual."

"I don't want to be told that by you. Well, the children look like they're getting bored."

"That's how debuts are. Even one-year-olds withdraw when they're shown to lots of people."

Certainly, children get tired when they're too lively.

"I see. She doesn't want to go back to her room, the children want to play."

Mark looked at Nico and me and nodded as if he understood.

"Leila and Prince Nicholas have guards, don't they?"

"Of course."

Mark looked around the hall as if he was searching for something.

"Oh, they're here. You have guards stationed inside and outside of the mansion, so you don't have to worry. And, I happen to want to take a break."

Mark smiled wryly, and the young ladies froze and looked my way.

"I'll come too."

"That's not fair!"

A voice came out from behind. It was Christine.

"Oh, Chrishthine."

"I told you to call me Chris!"

Chris folded her arms and bent her chest. It was really alright for me to call her Chris. I freaked out a little.

"It's really fine," Nico arrogantly gave me permission. I'm the one who decides this though.

"Yeah, it's time for the adults to talk. I'm a little bored. Can I come with you?"

"Of course. It's your house, Luke."

It's also my house, you know? Gill is already 15 years old, but he stood next to Nii-sama and looked as if it was obvious that he was going to follow us.

"Chris. You're wandering around by yourself again.

"It's boring to listen to the adults talk."

"Well, that's true."

Felicia quickly, but elegantly, chased after Chris. Felicia looked relieved to see that she found Chris, and turned back, but Ange-obasama didn't pay any attention this way.

"I'm going to go play with Lei and Prince Nico."

We didn't invite you, though. She was planning on following us, and I freaked out a little.

"With just these kids?" Felicia looked straight at Otou-sama. He still seemed hesitant but answered Felicia.

"No, the guards will be there too. Mark, Gill and Luke will also be there."

"Marcus-sama and Gill? Then it should be alright."

Nii-sama looked a little unhappy that he wasn't included in that list. Well, from her point of view, he's still only 12, and looked fragile and kind, so it's hard to explain that he's really reliable. Besides, Marcus-sama and Gill. I understand the rank of the Four Marquises's boys very well.

I'm so close to laughing.

"Then, I'll show you around. We don't have time to go outside, so how about going to the greenhouse? It's quite big."

Apparently, the Albans greenhouse is quite famous. I've only been there a few times, but it should be enough to run around. Why only a few times, you ask? I was kidnapped before I could move around more, and then when I returned, I started going to the castle.

"Okay."

Nii-sama held out his hand. Anyway, I'm his younger sister. He ignored the guests for his sister. Nii-sama's love is a little heavy.

"Alright."

Nico grabbed Nii-sama's hand. Nico grew quite attached to Nii-sama after he came to the castle to play. I mean, to teach Nico how to train his magic. Nii-sama looked at me, a little troubled, but that's fine. I nodded.

But, I want to hold someone's hand.

"Ai."

"Hey, why me?"

Obviously, because you're almost the same height as me.

"Chrishthine."

"It's Chris! Argh, fine."

Chris reluctantly held my hand.

"Leth'sh fowwow Nii-syama."

"Do you not know the way to your own greenhouse?"

"Too big."

"You're right. There's a lot of places in my home that I haven't been to either."

It's like that. We turned around and followed Nii-sama.

"Can't you walk a bit faster?"

"I wiwe nice peopwe."

"Argh."

I think Gill held out his hand for Felicia while smiling at me and Christine.

"Now, let's go."

"No, thank you."

"Then, I'll hold your hand."

"I don't need you to do that either, Marcus-sama."

She refused them both, and the three of them walked normally.

"Nee-sama is independent. She doesn't like depending on people."

"Wow."

"Right? She can do everything herself. I want to be like her."

Then why don't you start with your manners?

"Stharth withh greethingsh."

"Lei, you're actually pretty strict."

Chris frowned.

"I was jealous because everyone's so loved."

Aren't you loved as well?

"Whath abouth Fewicia?"

"Nee-sama? I love her. She talks to me. But, Okaa-sama..."

"Bushy?"

"Yeah. Your Otou-sama is too, right?"

"He goesh tho thhe cashthwe every day."

"Of course he does, he is part of the Four Marquises after all..."

The Four Marquises goes to the castle every day to do some kind of work, and channels magic into the magic stones once every few days.

"You're so lucky to have violet eyes."

"I wiwe brown eyesh thoo. Okaa-syama had brown eyesh."

"My eye colour is like my Otou-sama's."

"Pwetty."

"Pretty?"

I swung our joined hands.

"Pwetty. Ith woowsh wiwe thea withh miww. Yummy." (It looks like tea with milk)

Delicious things are good.

"Thea withh miww. Snacwsh!" (Snacks)

Come to think of it, I didn't eat any snacks.

"There's tea, and snacks in the greenhouse." Natalie, who was with us, told me.

"Nathawie, thhanwsh."

"Chrish, thhe shnacwsh are waithing!"

"Don't swing our hands too much! Even if you rush, you only know how to totter."

"I'm noth thoththering! I'm wawwing properwy!"

"Run, Lei."

Being confused has nothing to do with it. I've only had drinks for a while now. I had a light meal before that, you say? That's a light meal, not snacks.

"Weird kid."

"I'm normaw."

"I'm not sure about that."

Nii-sama giggled, and Gill laughed.

"Lei is normal, other than the fact that she sleeps too much."

"I think sleeping a lot is normal."

"Is that so?"

It's rude to listen in on other people's conversations.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 127 - Oranges in the Greenhouse

Chapter 127: Oranges in the Greenhouse

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

We walked for a while and went to the greenhouse straight from the terrace of the guest room. The greenhouse that Okaa-sama dearly loved.

"This is our greenhouse. Lei has only been here a few times."

"Ai."

"Please make yourselves at home," Nii-sama said, and Nico ran into the greenhouse at once. The guards quickly followed after him. There were a lot of rare plants, so I was worried about whether he would pluck them.

"This is the guest room, but from what I know, no one has ever stayed here. Okaa-sama came here a lot."

Did he come here with Okaa-sama? I'm jealous.

"Ever since Lei became able to walk, Otou-sama stored her portrait and tea utensils."

"Otou-syama..."

"He was worried that Lei would be sad and wonder why she didn't have an Okaa-sama."

It's a good reason, but I won't get moved or cry because of that, because Otou-sama was just feeble.

"Lei, you don't have an Okaa-sama?"

"Chrish."

I looked at, and Chris, who was still holding my hand, looked surprised.

"Chris, I've told you this before, haven't I?"

Felicia looked at me worriedly. Children don't remember things that don't interest them. It probably never occurred to her that the Okaa-sama of the star of the party wasn't there.

"You only have your Otou-sama?"

I certainly don't have an Okaa-sama. But, "Nii-syama too." I have a wonderful brother. I puffed out my chest with pride.

"I'm here, too."

Nico came running back. He's fast.

"I'm always with you in the daytime, so I'm like your Nii-sama. And, Luke is your Nii-sama, so he's like my Nii-sama. And, Gill is like Luke's Nii-sama, so he's like our Nii-sama."

"That's a little confusing."

It really was confusing. That wasn't all Nico wanted.

"It's boring to run around by myself. Lei, come. I don't mind if Chris comes too."

This is my house, you know? Well, fine. Let's explore the greenhouse! Nii-sama called me, "Lei."

"Nii-syama, whath?"

It's rare for him to interrupt me when I'm playing. But, that wasn't what he wanted to do.

"If you go straight to the back, there are oranges."

"Orangesh!"

Our eyes sparkled at the valuable information.

"Alright! Let's go get some oranges!"

"Leth'sh go!"

"I guess I'll come too."

Come to think of it, isn't the castle's greenhouses more luxurious, so wouldn't they have oranges too? But, I didn't have time to think about it because the oranges could be stolen away. We ran like the wind.

"Lei-sama can't run fast, like always." I looked at the guard who said something unnecessary. Shouldn't Hans follow the example of the other guards and stay quiet?

I don't know if it's on purpose, but we went straight through the maze-like greenhouse and saw an orange tree at the end. It wasn't in a very high place, but children couldn't reach it. I don't even know if Nii-sama could reach it.

"It's beautiful! I've only seen orange trees which have been cut."

Chris, the biggest of us three, reached out, but she still couldn't reach the oranges easily. Nico jumped up, but couldn't reach. Shouldn't we use something that can be used? I looked at Hans.

"Hansh, up."

"I'll lift you up whenever you ask me to, but isn't this foul play, Lei-sama?"

"Hmm."

I looked back, and Nico and Chris also made a face that said it was unfair. Then, what should we do?

Let's talk about it.

We put our heads together and thought.

"How about we climb it?" Nico said since he got good at tree-climbing lately.

"The branchesh are thhin. They'ww breaw."

"So, we can't?"

"If you ask a maid to get the oranges."

"Fouwpway."

Didn't you two give me that look when I asked Hans to pick me up? In that case, we have to use something. We looked around.

Should we throw stones? There aren't any stones in the neat greenhouse. Then, how about a stick? Three sticks which had been supporting a plant behind Hans had fallen down.

"Nico, thath!"

"Sticks?!"

Boys and sticks are a dangerous combination, but we don't have another choice right now. The were a bit heavy, but Nico and Chris were able to hold the sticks.

"Ah, Lei-sama!" I heard a shriek. I held the stick and aimed it at the oranges.

"It's dangerous!"

Oh, I nearly hit Hans for some reason. I staggered because it was heavy.

"Even the smallest stick is heavy. Babies are such a pain."

Should I stagger again?

"Yes, yes. It's dangerous, so please watch, Lei-sama."

The stick was taken away. Well, he is looking after me.

"Hith thhath big one over thhere."

"Lei, you're only using your mouth."

I gave instructions to the two who were staggering while holding their sticks. Nico looked unhappy. Aren't the two older ones also staggering? I looked at Hans disgruntledly, but he shook his head.

"Lei wiww cheer you on!"

I wasn't allowed, so I waved my hands and cheered them on.

"Oh my gosh, Lei."

Chris laughed, and her stick managed to hit the oranges even though she was staggering.

"Ah!" I heard a shriek from somewhere. It was probably the gardener. A few oranges dropped down along with some leaves. Nico's stick seemed to have hit the big orange.

"It dropped!"

"We got some!"

Three people picked up the fallen oranges. Why was I late even though I wasn't holding a stick? But, everyone was able to pick up two each.

"These are for my father and mother!"

"Then, Lei wiww give it to Otou-syama and Nii-syama."

Chris looked at her own oranges. Hans secretly shook the tree branch behind us.

"Ah, Chris. Another one dropped."

"Really?"

Chris turned around and carefully picked up the orange.

"These are for Otou-sama, Okaa-sama, and Nee-sama."

I'm glad there was enough. Hans checked the oranges that had dropped.

"It's ripe enough to eat. Lei-sama, isn't that good?"

"Ai! Leth'sh go bacw, and everyone eath."

We went back slowly so that we wouldn't drop the oranges.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 128 - Halfies (Luke's POV)

Chapter 128: Halfies (Luke's POV)

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

"Felicia, the children are fine, so you can just let them do what they want."

"But Chris is naughty, so I don't know what she'll do."

Mark gently stopped Felicia, who tried to follow after Christine. Felicia and Christine are just like Lei and I, and are perfectly 10 years apart, no wait, 11 years apart. They were only acquaintances because I wasn't interested in them, but now that I think about it, Christine is the perfect age to be Lei's playmate.

Like His Highness, I heard that she was a difficult child, but she doesn't seem like a problematic child so far. But, Gill rebuked me even though I hadn't done anything.

"Luke, you too. Lots of guards are with them, and I see the gardeners too. She'll be fine."

"But, I'll miss the chance to see Lei's cute figure trying to get the oranges."

The oranges won't fall like she wants them to, so she'll be troubled on how to get them. So, I'll be the gentle Onii-sama and say, "Nii-sama will help you." But Gill stopped me.

"And, you're basically the master of this mansion. Entertain us."

"Entertain you guys?" I looked at Gill in amazed.

"When the pipsqueaks come back, they'll definitely make a fuss about snacks. Let's prepare some."

I looked around the room, and people were starting to prepare snacks lead by Natalie.

"I couldn't eat much at the party, so I want to sit down and eat something. The Albans' chefs are famous," Mark said, and everyone sat down. My attention was still on the greenhouse.

"Even so, Albans really dotes on his daughter," Mark laughed.

"He can't help but love her because he has such a cute daughter."

"I think you're at the most embarrassing age to say something like that."

"If I keep her at a distance because you said something like that, then she'll grow up in no time at all," I stressed to the laughing Mark. We've already been apart for more than half a year. I don't want to waste any more time.

"I wish my Okaa-sama would notice that too. Chris has gotten so big already."

Felicia's gentle face clouded over. We couldn't say anything. Felicia was born to the Remingtons, and her eye colour matched with their House. Thus, they knew she had a lot of magic and was no longer worried about the next generation. It's fine as long as she had enough magic to maintain the barrier like the current Remington head, Ange-sama.

But, Ange-sama gave birth to another child. The Four Marquises usually only had one child who inherited their eye colours no matter how many siblings are birthed. So, they didn't care what eye colour the second child had. If a child with jade eyes had been born, then they might have struggled for succession.

The second child's eyes resembled her Otou-sama. Naturally, she should be loved without pressure from being heir. But, Ange-sama lost interest in Christine when she saw that she had inherited her eyes from her Otou-sama, so she was neglected and grew up selfishly.

Ange-sama was similar to Otou-sama in that way. I love Otou-sama, but he wasn't a perfect person. He had neglected Lei when she was younger and was okay with it. Recently, I understood that there might be something missing in him. But, like how I'm by Lei's side, Felicia is by Christine's side. This is important.

We had different opinions, but this was the first time the children of the Four Marquises were gathered together. Surprisingly, we were able to chat without getting into any quarrels, and the children came running back.

"Nii-syama! Orange!"

Lei looks so cute carrying two large oranges with both hands while tottering this way. My bad, she's walking properly.

"One for Nii-syama. One for Otou-sama," she said as she gave me an orange.

"So, you don't get one?" I asked, and His Highness Nicholas and Chris suddenly looked at the oranges in their hand. They didn't think of their portion.

"Nii-syama's orange hawfiesh withh Lei. We geth awong weww." (Nii-sama's orange halfies with Lei. We get along well.)

"Halfies with Lei. That sounds nice."

"Otou-syama's orange hawfiesh with Lei."

"That's..."

So, only Lei will eat a whole big plump orange. It seems like something the gluttony Lei would think of. A cute way of thinking.

"Lei, that's a good idea."

"It's brilliant."

Prince Nico and Chris were impressed. But, the other side of the room was looking down and holding their stomach. It looked excruciating. Lei puffed out her chest.

"Of courshe! Lei picwed ith!"

"No, you just picked them off the ground..." Prince Nico immediately said, but Lei cut him off, "I cheered!"

I see I can picture how they got the oranges now. It's a rare fruit, but it can be grown anywhere in a greenhouse, and it's even sold in town. Everyone probably ate it in their houses a lot, but one picked by oneself might be exceptional.

"I'll eat the orange with Otou-sama later. Come, Natalie prepared some sweets."

"Sweethsh! Nico! Chrish!"

Lei's attitude changed, and she invited Prince Nico and Chris to sit down.

"Say, Luke."

"What is it, Felicia?"

"Lei is Prince Nico's playmate, but I wonder how it really is," Felicia said as she watched the three children eat and talk.

"They study together in the morning, have lunch separately, and play together in the afternoon. She goes to the castle happily every day."

"So, they're actually studying hard."

So that's what you were worried about.

"Gill and I visit the castle once a week to teach them."

"I heard about that, but you're teaching them? What're you teaching them?"

"Magic circulation."

I can probably tell her this.

"I see. Magic circulation."

She seemed nervous.

"The Albans aren't people who suck up to the royal family. Rather, they keep their distance from them."

Oh, a sensitive subject has been brought up. I don't want to be caught up in the expectations of adults.

"The only House that wants to get close to the royal family is the Remingtons," Mark casually said so that the children wouldn't hear him. If Otou-sama was here, he would probably say, "Why are the Remingtons trying to get close to the royal family? It'll only be annoying."

"Okaa-sama is panicking a little because the Albans offered their daughter as the Prince's playmate even though they don't want to get close to the royal family."

"We didn't offer her. We didn't want to. The only reason we let her be his playmate is that she would have more fun there, than being by herself in this mansion." I corrected her quietly.

"That's just it. I wonder if Okaa-sama is pushing Chris to be Prince Nico's playmate because she's panicking."

Mark, Gill and I looked at Felicia in surprise. Ange-sama aside, we didn't think Felicia would say that since she didn't seem to have any ambitions.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 129 - Too Many Senseis (Luke's POV)

Chapter 129: Too Many Senseis (Luke's POV)

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

Felicia noticed our gazes and quickly shook her head in a panic.

"It's not what it sounds like. I think she's getting close to the royal family for a reason. The Four Marquises are the Four Marquises. There isn't a concentration of powers because they're all separate from each other."

I rethought my opinion of Felicia a bit.

"I've been going to the castle a lot more with Okaa-sama. So, Chris is always alone at home. The servants' children aren't on the same status as her, and no one is around to speak clearly to her. Not to mention, the maids and guards..."

Of course, it would be like that.

"And, I think she's rather lonely, and I was wondering if I could bring her with me when I go to the castle. And, it's almost time to teach her how to behave like a lady, so I also wondered if I should be the one to teach her..."

Felicia is anxious about Chris.

"It would be convenient for Okaa-sama if I do this. Mm, I'll suggest it to her."

Felicia cheered up, but Marcus said, as if he was pouring cold water over her, "Apart from the fact that the Lisburns are servile to the Albans, the other nobles will feel uneasy if the Albans, Lisburns and Remingtons try to get close to the royal family."

"Aren't you overthinking?" Gill pointed out that Mark was overthinking. Is it alright for you not to deny that the Lisburns servile to the Albans? Even though he's from the Molesey House and is the same rank as us, it's not pleasant to hear something like that. But, Gill declared, "And father thinks it's fine, so he agrees with what Albans does, but if he doesn't think it's alright, then he would stop Albans. He doesn't publicise that he stops Albans, so it might look like servile, but I think it's odd to be afraid of rumours and not do what you want or should do."

"The next generations of the Lisburns are strong."

"Mark, this is too important a discussion to make jokes."

There are times when Gill is serious too.

"Then, shall I give Felicia a boost too?" What's with the 'then'? Mark suddenly said, which confused us.

"I'll also be a sensei. What should I teach her?"

He tilted his head as he looked like he was looking at children, but wasn't he talking about how the nobles felt about the Four Marquises getting close to the royal family?

"Mark."

"I'm only saying that the nobles will be unhappy, I never said you couldn't make them unhappy. If that's what you want, then go for it," Mark answered indifferently to Gill.

"I even think that they should erase the influence of the Four Marquises if that's what they want. We have to fill the magic stones even if we don't want to. However, is it necessary for us to be at the centre of domestic and foreign affairs? Shouldn't we separate ourselves from those matters?"

That's a complicated problem. We cherish this country and won't abandon it because we're involved with politics, and it's a nice feeling to have power. The Four Marquises of the previous generations have surrounded this country like that.

However, some wanted freedom like Otou-sama and some wanted to be a little more involved in politics like the Remingtons.

It's still a long way before I become the head of the Albans in place of Otou-sama. Do all heirs worry about these things? The outcome is that we can't laugh even if we wanted to in this hedged world.

"Nii-syama, Giww, shweethsh," Lei's adorable voice broke my thoughts. I looked at the table, and most of the snacks and sweets were gone. They ate more than usual because they were having fun, and she quickly called out to me.

"We already ate a little while you guys were picking oranges. You don't have to worry about us, keep on eating."

"Ai! Buth, I'm fuww."

Lei rubbing her stomach is so cute. She'll probably get angry if I touch it.

"Then, shall we go back to the hall?" Everyone stood up when I said this. The children also seemed satisfied and held onto their oranges again. By the way, Lei's empty-handed because she made me hold hers. She's cheeky.

But, Lei, who hadn't napped and spent the time playing, she became sleepy and staggered as she walked. So, Hans picked her up, and she then fell asleep.

"Ah, Lei-sama, you've worked harder than usual," Hans handed Lei to Natalie and said. He's the guard, so he needs his hands free.

"Hmm. She usually falls asleep earlier."

"I don't take naps anymore."

"You're already five, so you can't compare yourself to her."

"So what?"

His Highness and Chris seem to get along pretty well without Lei. Felicia sighed in relief.

Lei is two-years-old, the debut went on even without the star, and everyone went home. I, the other lead, conducted myself well. I got the guests who didn't want to leave to go home, and the debut was over.

Ojii-sama finally arrived at that time.

"Luke! I'm sorry, I'm late. Happy 12th birthday!"

"Well, Lei got tired of waiting and took a nap."

He probably really wanted to see Lei, but he still treasured me even though I wasn't related to him by blood. He hugged me tightly, then grabbed my shoulders and looked at my face.

"You've gotten bigger since summer. However, you're a bit skinny. You're skipping your sword practices, aren't you?"

How did he know? I started practising seriously ever since Gill spoke to me, but I have indeed been skipping, so I was surprised, and Ojii-sama acted pompously, "I even got you a new sword." The northern fiefs produce good swords.

"I only skipped a little, I'm practising properly now! Where's the sword?!"

"Hahaha, here."

"Yay!"

His attendant handed me the sword that he had hidden. I wanted to swing it straight away, but I was enjoying the weight. I pulled Ojii-sama's hand.

"Now, let's go see Lei sleep. She's adorable even when she's sleeping."

"Really?"

"Why were you late?"

"I brought a Rug Dragon for Lei to use, but it wouldn't listen to what I say."

That's dangerous.

"Lei's a little slow, so a violent dragon might be dangerous."

"Well, we'll find out when they meet."

I quickly pulled Ojii-sama to the second floor while thinking, she can't ride it if it's dangerous. I wanted him to quickly meet Lei.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 130 - Ojii-sama

Chapter 130: Ojii-sama

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

Please stay safe and remember to social distance yourself!<3

I fell asleep and was on my bed when I woke up. Nico is usually waiting for me, but he must have already left. It was fun to pick oranges, but it's tiring to meet so many people.

Speaking of oranges, why don't I bring a Rug Dragon with me next time and stand on their head. While I was thinking about such things, Natalie wiped my face with a warm towel.

"Thhanwsh, Natawie."

"Lei."

"Nii-syama!"

Nii-sama was here. I turned to where his voice was and saw a stranger with him. He had a firm body, some grey hair in his brown hair, a tan, and brown eyes. That person muttered, "Claire..."

Claire. Okaa-sama. Shortly after I thought that, the man hugged me. I didn't even have time to feel shy. I wasn't scared of strangers in the first place.

He smelt like the sun, old leather and faintly like Rug Dragons.

"Her eyes, mouth, her untidy hair, and mischievous expression are just like Claire's when she was little..."

Really? Both Otou-sama and Nii-sama have beautifully straight hair, but my hair is always all over the place.

"Ojii-syama?" I said, and he asked, "Yes, that's right! I'm your Ojii-sama. I've never seen such a smart child before. Right, Luke?!"

"That's right! That's why I wanted you to meet her as soon as possible!"

The middle-aged man and the boy were screaming.

"Father-in-law, I've been here the whole time. You didn't notice me at all because you wanted to meet Lei." Otou-sama smiled, wryly behind them.

"Oh, Dean. This is great. Lei's back. It's really great!"

"Yes, yes. It really is!"

He was still holding me as they hugged each other. It's tight. It's narrow.

"It's surprisingly foolish of you not to notice how much she looks like Claire, Dean."

"At first, I only saw her hair and eye colours. And, she's chubbier than the slender and weak Claire."

What!? If a baby isn't chubby, then doesn't that mean they're unhealthy?

"Otou-syama..."

Judging a person by only a glance, honestly what a troublesome person.

"After I started caring for her, I didn't even think about whether she resembled Claire or not. Oh yes, is Luke like Diana?"

Otou-sama stared at Nii-sama, and Nii-sama was shocked.

"You're asking that now? It's been 12 years since I was born."

"My bad."

This is probably a situation where I can understand just how useless Otou-sama is. I hope this doesn't spread outside of the Albans House.

"Oh, we got off-topic. Leila, happy birthday."

"Thanwsh."

I feel like it's my first time meeting a relative.

"I brought a present for the girl who did her best in Frontier!"

"Preshenth?"

I tilted my head. Oh yeah, I haven't received a present today.

"I collected all the presents you received today. I'll show you later."

"Ai!"

"Ojii-sama's present is, you know..."

If you stop there, then I'll be excited to hear what it is.

"It's a Rug Dragon!"

"Wow. Huh?"

Rug Dragon? For a two-year-old girl?

"It's a Rug Dragon for you to use!"

"Wow, thanwsh." I said thank you, but we have lots of dragons in the pasture. And, I've been told that I can't ride them by myself, so it's a questionable present.

"Rug Dragons have long life spans, so it'll be with you until you grow up."

"Ojii-sama's fief raises Rug Dragons."

Ojii-sama and Nii-sama get along well. I have mixed feelings about Rug Dragons, so the stuffed one near my bedside is enough for me.

I'm glad he came to see me, and he also got along well with Otou-sama. The people at the mansion were tactful and made dinner into a party. We talked, and laughed while having dinner.

"Claire wasn't shy either, is Lei the same?"

Ojii-sama narrowed his eyes.

"Claire didn't change even when she became an adult, and she always talked to this grumpy Dean without hesitation."

"I'm ashamed of myself. I lost my temper a lot, and was unhappy about a lot of things back then."

"No, you had the reputation of being an expressionless and cold guy. The rumours about the Four Marquises are heard to the ends of the country."

"That's..."

This might be my first time seeing Otou-sama speechless. It's Otou-sama, so he wasn't interested in whether people were interested in him or not, and he would even say 'What do you want me to do with your interest?'

Nii-sama and I, who were exposed to the public in Wester as members of the Four Marquises, smiled wryly. Then, I thought. If I were Okaa-sama, and I was meeting the Four Marquises for the first time, then I would be excited to see what kind of a grumpy person would come. If she was like me, then she must have waited excitedly for the guest to arrive.

"I'm shure Okaa-syama wash woowing forward tho ith."

"Lei! That's right. You're really her daughter. Claire was looking forward to seeing what kind of person this cold and grumpy guy was, and she wanted to see how many wrinkles he had on his brows. She couldn't go out much because of her health, and was looking forward to meeting him."

"So..." Otou-sama said as if he had remembered something. What is it? Otou-sama stared at me, turned away and looked awkward.

"Claire came up to me with her eyes sparkling in excitement, then she said in disappointment, 'What? You don't even have one wrinkle'. I was still young, and I thought that she was really rude," he muttered. Okaa-sama, I can't believe you wanted to see how many wrinkles he had. As expected of the woman who married Otou-sama.

"There were a lot of girls who wanted to be with me."

Well, you are popular since you're one of the Four Marquises.

"I've never met a girl as unpredictable as Claire. And, she always looked like she was having fun."

That's why he was attracted to a girl who was different from those around him. I see.

"Lei, what are you grinning about?"

When Otou-sama got off his seat, he picked me up and put his face in my hair.

"Oh, yes. Claire would grin in an unladylike way too."

I asked him what he said, but he immediately diverted the subject. I have to ask Nii-sama what Otou-sama looked like tomorrow. I thought.

The next morning, I was taken to the pasture. I saw the Rug Dragon who was being given to me as a present and was blown away.

"Kyee."

Huh, it's small. Is it a child?

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 131 - Nostalgic Sound

Chapter 131: Nostalgic Sound

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam and delishnoodles

Of course, Rug Dragons had children as well. They carefully protect their children. This ranch also had several smaller dragons, but aren't they bigger than this one?

"Smaww."

"Kyee."

The Rug Dragon snorted when I said that. You're the one who's small, right? I wasn't saying I'm the small one. I folded my arms, stood in an imposing stance and glared at the dragon.

"Kyeeee."

I'm not folding my arms, you say? Rude. I'm folding my arms properly, aren't I? Anyway, you're so small. Can you even work properly?

"They became good friends straight away. The Albans are really compatible with Rug Dragons."

"Ai?"

"Kyee?"

The Rug Dragon and I turned around at Ojii-sama's words.

"See, aren't you getting along?"

It was a coincidence. I turned to the side, and the Rug Dragon also turned away. Some large Rug Dragons approached the small one to calm it down. They seemed a bit angry as if to say that we should take care of the younger ones. Some came towards me as well and gently poked me with their noses. Get along, you say?

"You may be surprised by the small dragon, but that's her breed. The Rug Dragons in the north are rather large, but there are some smaller ones. They can't carry heavy loads, but they're friendly, and it's easier to handle them. They're popular among women."

So that's the reason? It might have been rude of me to call her small. I untied my arms.

"Kyee."

As long as you understand, you say? Well, she's a bit sassy, but that's okay.

"But, Ojii-sama. It's still too early for Lei to ride dragons. And, Lei isn't good at moving, unlike the other children."

What?! I wonder since when have I been compared to other children? Children around the same age as me shouldn't be able to move around well. Besides, he may think that I'm bad at moving around, but so what? There's no P.E. in this world, so there's no point in worrying about evaluation. I like to move, so I don't mind at all.

"That's where this comes in. Now, let's put a basket on the dragon!" Ojii-sama proudly instructed, and a divided basket used for transporting cargo was attached to the dragon. They use this in Frontier, but it looks a little different.

"It's originally a cargo basket, but it's shaped like a chair, and it fixes the body to the chair when you put this strap on. It's an excellent basket. She won't fall out of the basket even if the Rug Dragon runs. It has been tested, so it's okay."

"Not the dragon, but the basket? But what about the balance between left and right?"

"There are some weights at her feet to maintain balance. Also, even if she's a small Rug Dragon, she can carry two adults if they sit on the left and right baskets."

"Which means..."

"That Luke and Lei can take a walk on the dragon."

What?! Nii-sama stared at me with sparkling eyes.

"Lei, this is..."

"Nii-syama, dis is..."

"Let's get on!"

"Ai!"

"Wait," Otou-sama stopped us, and rode the dragon first to try her out. The Rug Dragon looked disgusted, but she stooped down and let Otou-sama get on.

"Go!"

"Kyee," the dragon let out an unmotivated shriek, but still started running around the ranch. Otou-sama rode her around the ranch while indicating left and right with his hand. Then, he came back. The Rug Dragon didn't look tired at all.

"She's well-trained, Father-in-law."

Ojii-sama looked proud.

"But, for the two-year-old Lei..."

"Kyee," the Rug Dragon snorted, are you looking down on me? But, Otou-sama was right.

"Lei wiww ride with Otou-syama."

"Lei and Otou-sama? Alright, then."

"Otou-sama! That's not fair!"

"But, you were able to ride on the dragon by yourself since last summer."

Nii-sama looked disappointed, but he gave up when he was told this.

"Then, if you think it's fine after she rides with you, Otou-sama, then let her ride with me next."

"Well, what should I do?"

I looked up at Otou-sama.

"Uoah."

I took a step closer to him and stared at him. One more push.

"Otou-syama..."

"Alright. Anyway, let's try first."

"Ai!"

Otou-sama instructed the Rug Dragon to run next to us, then he changed the position of the strap and strapped me in. I was strapped in now, but if the position of the strap was fixed from the beginning, then I just need to wiggle in. The basket which had been turned into a chair had cushions in it and felt good to sit on. I felt Otou-sama getting in next to me, and our eyes met on the back of the dragon. We're unexpectedly close. And it's fun.

"Go slowly."

"Kyeee."

The dragon started strolling. It felt the same as the Rug Dragons I rode in Frontier. The dragons would dash, Mill would be riding next to me and Alistair would ride in front of us.

"Awishthair."

I wonder how he is. Otou-sama glanced at me, then spoke to the dragon, "Run."

The Rug Dragon picked up her pace. We quickly approached the edge of the ranch. The dragon ran along the fence, then turned sharply. I felt gravity on the side. I never experienced this in Frontier.

"Wow!" I laughed. The wind blew my hair back. The cold winter air blew everything away.

Even though Otou-sama hadn't said anything, the Rug Dragon stopped in front of everyone.

"Otou-sama!"

"Hmm. It seems fine. You can't let the dragon run when you're riding with Lei, Luke. But, you can get the dragon to walk around."

"Yay!" Nii-sama jumped in joy. It was fun to ride the Rug Dragon with Nii-sama. We could talk as well. However, it was cold in the middle of winter. We ended the ride before our bodies froze. Now, I just need to name her.

"Nii-syama, whath'sh your dragon'sh name?"

"My dragon? Doesn't have one."

Huh? Apparently, it was pointless to name them since they operated as a group even if they were being used exclusively. Therefore, no one gave them names. Come to think of it, I didn't see anyone in Lentforce with their own dragon.

"How do you caww thhem?"

"You can just ask the dragon's caretaker. But, Otou-sama also prepared something special for you to match with Ojii-sama's present."

"Niini?"

Uh-oh, I start talking like a baby once I let my guard down.

"Whath? Otou-syama."

"You don't have to change the way you talk. Well, whatever. Here."

In Otou-sama's palm was a small whistle attached to a thin gold chain.

"Dis..."

"You blew them in Frontier, right? A grass whistle which made a strange sound."

I took it gently and put it in my mouth.

"Fuu."

There was no sound.

"Blow it harder."

"Ai."

That's right. Even the grass whistles didn't make a sound when I blew on it softly. I blew harder.

"Puu."

"Kyee."

"Puu, puu."

"Kyee, kyee."

The Rug Dragons cried along to the whistle.

"Soundsh wike Weshther."

The wind blew. I heard the laughter of my friends.

"You don't have to forget. But you can."

Otou-sama added unnecessarily and put the whistle chain around my neck.

"It's not lonesome. Rug Dragons are always our partners."

"Ojii-syama."

Ojii-sama also seemed satisfied. My debut ended peacefully, and I made new friends and gained a Rug Dragon.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 132 - Stay

Chapter 132: Stay

Translator: Blushy

Editor: delishnoodles

I rested the day after my debut and rode on the Rug Dragon with Ojii-sama and Nii-sama. Nii-sama also took a day off from the academy since Ojii-sama was here.

"Kyee."

The little dragon became completely familiar with the group. She ran with the other dragons and helped look after the smaller ones.

"Dragon!"

"Kyee."

She still ran to me when I called her.

"Kyee."

She put her head closer to me when I reached out, so I rubbed her big head. However, another dragon approached and poked my body.

"Hahaha, the dragons love Lei," Ojii-sama laughed, but the dragons probably did like me. But, the dragon, who was poking me, looked at me meaningfully. I suddenly realised this, and pulled out the dragon whistle.

"Kyee."

So, you get what I mean? The dragon said.

"Bwow?"

"Kyee."

"Puu, puu."

"Kyee, kyee." The dragons sang happily and ran around energetically.

"I wonder why they react to the whistle." Ojii-sama put his hand to his chin and pondered.

"Soundsh wike da wind."

"The wind? I wonder if they remember the wide prairies."

"Kyee."

I don't know what they're thinking, but they look like they're having fun, so it's okay.

Otou-sama said that the Rug Dragon couldn't run while we were riding her, but Ojii-sama said that it would be fine if she jogged, so Nii-sama and I rode her around the ranch with a fair bit of speed.

"Lei, why don't you come to Ojii-sama's place the next time you have a big holiday?"

"Oway!"

I was happy with Nii-sama's proposal and Ojii-sama was delighted as well.

"Yes, come, come."

"I didn't get to enjoy my time there last time because we moved around a lot and I had to train my sword skills, but it'll be nice to stay there for a while and take rides on the Rug Dragon."

I heard that Nii-sama went to Ojii-sama's place, but I didn't know that he had such a hard time there.

"Buth, Awishthair thoo."

"Hmm?"

"I wanth tho meeth Barth and Miww thoo."

We had only just separated, and they were probably busy with their studies, but it's alright to want to meet them.

"Those guys will surely come to see you even if you don't do anything."

Those guys, that doesn't sound like words Nii-sama would use.

"You'll need a big holiday if you want to go see them. We'll talk to Otou-sama about it, but we have to visit Ojii-sama first. Then, we'll think about going to Wester after."

"Ai."

We've made plans for a trip.

"By the way, how long will you be staying here, Ojii-sama?"

"Well, actually..."

Ojii-sama looked at the ranch after picking me up when Nii-sama asked him this question.

"You probably heard about this Luke. Nobles from Farland are pushing His Highness Albert to marry."

"Albert-sama... Yes, I've heard. But, I've heard that no foreigner has ever married into the royal family, so they probably won't go through with it."

Who is Prince Albert? I listened to their conversation while looking at the ranch and Rug Dragons.

"He's the second Prince, Lei. In other words, Nico's uncle."

"Oji-syama."

"He's about 20 years old, so he's around the same age as Marcus Molesey."

The Molesey House is part of the Four Marquises, and they have wintery-sky eyes. If I remember correctly, the oldest one is Har-ojisama. And, "Marw. Grey-oniisyama."

"That's right, but..."

Nii-sama, what's wrong?

"The only one who you can call Nii-sama is me. You can call Mark Oji-sama. Yes, that's good enough for him."

"Yesh, around shame age ash Barth."

"Same as Bart? Then, Bart is an Oji-sama too."

So overbearing. Ojii-sama held me as he laughed, and there was nothing more unstable than this.

"Lei, you only need one Ojii-sama too. You can call me as much as you like."

"Ojii-syama."

"What is it, Lei?"

"That wasn't what we were talking about, Ojii-sama. I asked you how long you would be staying here."

"Hahaha, oh yeah."

Ojii-sama put me down since I got tired of being held, and went back to the topic at hand.

"Since people in Farland are pushing for it, they decided that the two will at least meet face-to-face."

"Farland..."

Nii-sama frowned. I listened as I gathered some kind of fluff that had been mixed in with the dead winter grass.

"Wester and Easter won't remain silent if the royal family has a connection with Farland. They will probably remove him from the royal family and turn him into a normal noble, but what is the King thinking?" Nii-sama sometimes says things that a 12-year-old wouldn't.

"Surprisingly, it might just be a mere miai1)."

"Miai?" Nii-sama asked back.

"His Highness Lambert happened to find the woman he loved from a lower-ranked noble family, but His Highness Albert patrols around the country, so he doesn't have that opportunity. He might not want to make connections with powerful nobles in the country."

"If that's the case, then it would be troublesome if he marries a noble from Wester of Easter."

"Well, the royals can't leave the Kingdom. It's obvious that they would invite the young lady to the royal capital. So, they'll be meeting in Neville."

So, Ojii-sama is...

"Ojii-sama, you're thawing him thhere?"

"That's right. It's a hassle."

It seems like the Albans aren't the only ones who say unnecessary things.

"Of course, my main purpose was to meet Lei."

"Ai!"

It's fine since he can finish what he has to do.

"I think he went to the south on an inspection, but he should be back soon, so we'll go to the north together. Until then, well, I'll be staying here."

Then, I realised that I never met His Highness Albert even when I was with Nico. The Prince should take his time to return so that Ojii-sama can stay here for a long time, I thought as if it was someone else's business.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 133 - From Two People to Three People

Chapter 133: From Two People to Three People

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Delishnoodles

My debut was over, so Nii-sama tearfully returned to his dormitory, and I went back to commuting to the castle. The difference was the Ojii-sama saw me off every day with a smile.

What happened to the little dragon, you ask?

It would certainly be fun to ride her around town, but Natalie will have to sit on the other basket. And, Otou-sama will sit in the carriage. Otou-sama refused since he wouldn't be able to enjoy his time with his daughter on his commute to the castle.

Or, Otou-sama could ride in the other basket, and Natalie and the guard will ride in the carriage. But this is also strange. Otou-sama liked this idea, but Jude was firmly against it.

I think Jude's temples were twitching when he said this to Otou-sama when Otou-sama tried to climb into the carriage, "The Four Marquises don't ride in baskets to go out! I know that Leila-sama is cute, but please be more aware of your position as the head of the family."

"I know, I know."

Otou-sama didn't seem to care, but I'm glad he didn't get into the basket. Therefore, the little dragon was returned to the ranch, but I was somewhat angry that she went back happily without any complaints. Well, she can only stay in the castle ranch even if she came with us, so it probably didn't matter to her.

I want to brag to Nico, but I don't mind doing that when the opportunity presents itself.

I had a lot of fun with Ojii-sama during my debut, but I'm happy to go back to my normal days. I cheerfully walked up to Nico when I got off the carriage, but then I saw an unfamiliar and imposing carriage.

"That's the Remington carriage," Natalie said after glancing at it.

"Remingthon?"

"They came to your debut the other day. The family head is Angelique-sama, and her daughters Felicia-sama and Christine-sama picked oranges with you."

I know who the Remingtons are. I just didn't understand why they were here. But, I figured it out from Natalie's words.

"Chrishthine!"

"I told you to call me Chris!"

Chris came up to us while Natalie was talking. Felicia stood behind her with a troubled expression on her face.

"I told you not to look at other people's carriages without permission..."

"Because Lei didn't come out straight away." That sounds just like Chris.

"You should have gone to where I am before going to where Lei is."

"Nico!"

We haven't seen each other in a few days.

"Hmm. Lei, I thank you for the oranges. Mother was most pleased."

"Okaa-syama? Nico, thhath'sh good."

She might have told him that he could have taken some from the castle greenhouse and didn't need to bring them from another place. I'm glad she liked the orange.

"My Otou-sama was really happy. He patted my head."

"Head! Thath'sh nice."

I'd be happy if my head was patted.

"Chris. Follow His Highness's example. It doesn't matter what Otou-sama did, you should give your thanks for."

"But, Nee-sama."

"No buts. We came here because you promised that you would study etiquette."

Chris pouted unhappily, but surprisingly, she turned to me and said expressed her gratitude, "Lei, thanks for the oranges."

"You're wewcome," I also replied politely. However, it was strange to be thanked since it wasn't like they were my oranges.

"Chrish, Chrish, did you awsho come tho shthudy?"

"That's right. I was told that it would be fine since the small Nico and Lei are studying properly."

"We shthudy properwy." I puffed my chest in pride.

"Lei is right." Nico puffed his chest in pride.

"What? You two actually study?"

Why is she disappointed? It's also boring to play the whole day.

"Chris!" Felicia rubbed her hands anxiously. She worries more than Nii-sama. Nico and I looked at each other and nodded. It's annoying, so we should just take her with us.

"Leth'sh go."

"Let's."

We held out our hand to Chris on both sides.

"Wh-what?"

""Hand.""

"Like this?"

Chris stretched out her hand, and Nico took one while I took the other.

"Now, leth'sh go."

"Hmm, Lei, we're going to my library. Shouldn't I take the lead?"

"Then pweashe."

"You're making me angry."

The way he spoke strangely reminded me of Prince Huu.

"Awrighth, off we go!"

"Aren't you leading in the end, Lei?"

We walked to the library while Chris was still confused.

"Ah, Chris!" Felicia cried out from behind her, but I ignored her.

"Mm, Felicia-ojousama."

"Huh? Oh, I've seen you before."

"I was a Ojou-sama's maid before," Natalie said. It isn't rude for a maid to talk if the situation calls for it. Felicia looked as if she remembered this.

"Hmm, I think it's alright to leave Christina-sama with His Highness Nico and Leila-sama."

"Oh. I'm supposed to look after her."

"Odds-sensei will be there, and so will other adults."

"If you were Christine's maid, then you know that she's a difficult child."

"Yes."

Natalie, you didn't hesitate.

"But, please leave her to us. Felicia-sama, what about your political affairs?"

"Oh no! I need to go back! I'll come back at lunch."

Felicia left in a hurry. I knew that she left and looked up at Chris. She seemed alright. She was looking around since it was her first time here."

"Nexth, we cwimb up shthairsh."

It was dangerous to climb up the stairs while holding hands, so I let go off her hand under the stairs.

"Second fwoor."

I stared at the two who had gone ahead and walked up the stairs steadily. Chris looked down worriedly at me from the top of the stairs. Then, she glanced behind me.

"No matter how slow Lei-sama is, she won't fall down from the stairs," Hans spoke behind me to reassure Chris. Rude. It's because I'm slow that I'm careful and don't get hurt. Wait, I'm not slow.

Then, the three of us finally entered the library."

"Big..." Chris muttered because Nico's library was so big. There was another library in the castle, and this one was exclusively for the royal family. There was also a small bed under the window.

Three desks were arranged neatly in front of the blackboard, and Odds-sensei was already waiting for us. But before Odds-sensei said anything, Nico stood in front of the blackboard with his arms crossed. Oh my, he's pretending to be the senior one. Well...

"Chrish, shith down."

"Here?"

"Ai, thhere."

I had Chris sit down before I stood next to Nico and crossed my arms. I'm also a senior.

"Noth decided."

"Decided."

Nico says one too many words.

"Then, Chris will take an exam to see how much she knows."

"Exam."

"Your Highness. Leila-sama..."

Odds-sensei seemed appalled but wait a minute.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 134 - Let's Play a Game

Chapter 134: Let's Play a Game

Translator: Blushy

Editor: delishnoodles

"Wh-what? I'm five. I know a lot more than His Highness Nico, and even more than Lei," Chris said in amazement. However, Nico ignored her.

"Then, write out a, i, u, e, o in order."

"I don't want to."

"Write it."

He pointed at the paper and pencil on the table.

"Argh. I just need to write it, right? Why do I have to listen to a little baby...?" Chris muttered, but she began writing.

"A, i, u. See, I can write it just fine. E, o, done."

"Again."

"What?"

"Your e is the wrong way."

Nico opened his arms and shrugged.

Are you Western? I looked up at Odds-sensei, and the edge of his lips were twitching. I know. I know. Nico didn't know how to write them until recently.

"You only made a little mistake. This one needs to be done properly too."

"What did you say?!"

Oh, this is bad. Chris was about to flip the table. Chris's maid and guard also went on alert.

"Aai. Leth'sh pway a game," I interrupted them stupidly. Oh, I mean cutely.

"Game?"

"Game?"

Both of them turned around at the same time.

"The game ish cawwed 『find thhe reaw e』."

"Leila-sama, what kind of game is that?" To do this quickly, I will need the help of Odds-sensei, who had just asked a question.

"Puth a woth of papersh withh e on thhe fwoor." (Put a lot of papers with e on the floor)

"Oh. Like the one you hit?"

I'm the one who wants to say, oh Odds-sensei remembered.

"Puth thhe reaw e among thhe fawe e." (Put the real e among the fake e)

"I get it!" Nico yelled.

"The one who finds the real e the fastest wins, right?!"

"Thath'sh righth."

That's right. I gave Odds-sensei a demand, "Please write the correct e and a lot of wrong e's."

"So, that's the game? Well, alright."

It would take a lot of time for us to write it. So, I got Odds-sensei to write too.

"In thhe meanthime, woow for weththersh thhath Chrish ish bad ath writhing." (In the meantime, look for letters that Chris is bad at writing)

"I don't have any letters that I'm bad at writing."

"Chrish. Thath'sh for thhe nexth game."

Chris thought the game would finish in one round and fidgeted.

"... Fine."

"I'ww confirm ith."

"So arrogant."

However, Chris wasn't good at writing a lot of letters.

"It's hard to read. Whatever's fine, right?"

Apparently, that's what she thinks. It might be alright since she's five. However, the Prince can write these letters properly, so his study buddy should be able to too.

What about me, you ask? Of course, I can read. But, my hands won't move the way I want them too, so I don't force myself to write. Of course, I practice writing, but I draw more. Both Nico and Odds-sensei said that was fine.

Odds-sensei immediately understood the game that I proposed.

"I just have to mix the real e with the fake e's and put them on the ground, right?"

"Ai."

The three of us stood before the paper and looked at it in excitement. There are three correct e's.

"Then, this is the wrong e, and this is the correct e. Let's find the correct e. Now, let's begin!"

Nico flew out like the wind and grabbed two correct e's in no time at all, and Chris also picked up the correct e after hesitating for a moment.

The two proudly showed Odds-sensei their papers.

"Christine-sama, which way did you draw the last line on your e?"

"Hmm, towards the hand that I take oranges with."

"Oranges? Well, okay. That's right. You can remember it as the hand that you harvest oranges with. Then, please write it again."

"Okay!" Chris replied frankly and wrote her e. Chris looked happy, and Odds-sensei seemed impressed. So she can do it.

Even so. I thought it was funny. Apparently, I had only moved two steps.

"Lei..."

Wouldn't it be better if you had left one for me if you're going to look at me pitifully? If it's like this then...

"I'm changing thhe ruwesh." (I'm changing the rules.)

"Lei, that's not fair."

"Ith ish! Grabbing thwo piecesh of papersh ishn'th fair!" (It is! Grabbing two pieces of papers isn't fair)

Nico looked at the two pieces of paper in his hand and gave me one. I stomped my feet.

"I! I wanth tho geth ith myshewf!"

Nico rubbed my head while feeling troubled. That's fine, but this is a battle.

"You can onwy thawe one! The pershon who thawesh ith tho Oddsh-shenshei winsh!"

Nico and Chris thought for a while.

"Well, that's fine."

"That sounds good."

"Then, thhath'sh thhath!"

I snorted. I'll get Natalie and the others to help me this time.

"Now then, second round. Begin!" Nico ran to the other side when Odds-sensei said this. He took the furthest e and ran back to Odds-sensei to show him. Next was Chris. In the meantime, I quietly took an e, and was the last one to show Odds-sensei.

"Leila-sama passes too."

"Ai!"

I also showed the paper to Natalie.

"Lei-sama, it's good that you were able to get the paper!"

"Ai!"

I felt satisfied. Next, I showed it to Hans.

"That's good, you were able to get it properly."

"Ai!"

Naturally.

Like this, Chris started showing the strength of a five-year-old and competed with Nico. We ran around the whole morning. I was always last, but I had lots of fun.

Otou-sama and Felicia came at lunchtime. Felicia looked like she was going to faint when she saw the mess of papers on the ground, and it was funny.

"Now thhen, thhe pershon who cowwecthsh thhe moshth papersh wiww be thhe winner." (Now then, the person who collects the most papers will be the winner)

"Begin!" Odds-sensei spoke pleasantly, so Nico and Chris moved conditionally. One paper, two papers, three papers, one fell, so one more.

Huh? There's no more? I looked around restlessly.

"Lei..."

"Lei..."

"Buffo."

It seems like Nico and Chris collected the rest of the papers. I think Hans laughed, but why is Otou-sama making a strange face?

"Hah, thhath wash though." (That was tough) I said as I gave Odds-sensei the papers, and he complimented me with a smile, "Leila-sama, you did a great job."

Odds-sensei has become quite an understanding person. We each went our separate ways during lunch. When I returned, I fell asleep because I was tired, and Chris got angry, "Why is she sleeping?!" I don't understand why she was mad.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 135 - ntruder Sensei

Chapter 135: Intruder Sensei

Translator: Blushy

Editor: delishnoodles

Then surprisingly, it was quickly decided that Chris would come to the castle as the Prince's study partner.

However, she will only come on days when Felicia has to come to the castle. Felicia isn't exactly involved in political affairs yet. Angelique has only just begun to teach her about this. Moreover, she was still in her last year of the academy, so she had a lot of things to do before her graduation in March.

Therefore, there are days when Felicia won't come to the castle, and on those days, Chris won't come either.

In that case, I thought it would be fine for the head of the Remington House to bring her along like Otou-sama does with me, but she won't bring Chris for inexpressible reasons like it's a pain to commute back and forth and she'll get in the way at lunch.

So, I thought for a moment that we could stay together at lunchtime like in kindergarten or a nursery school, but both Nico and I both look forward to having lunch with our families, and we should treat this time preciously.

Then, Felicia was excited that she could come to teach us etiquette once a week even though she was busy, but a different person arrived at the beginning of the week.

Nico and I both had our mouths agape.

"Let's throw candy at them."

"Marcus-dono, candies are dangerous for babies," Odds-sensei calmly pointed this out, and I closed my open mouth.

"Marw-niisya... Marw."

"Your name is Lei, right? You could have just called me Mark-niisama."

I was a little troubled since Nii-sama would make a big fuss if he found out.

"I'm sure Luke told you that he's your only Nii-sama." Mark raised the corner of his mouth, weirdly.

"Marcus-dono," Nico recovered from his surprise and greeted Mark properly.

"Your Highness Nicolas. I haven't seen you since Lei's debut."

"I thought Felicia would be coming today."

"Lei thoo."

I was curious about what it was like to study etiquette. Come to think of it, Chris isn't here today, so Felicia wouldn't be at the castle either.

"Ah, Felicia's coming too, but I'll also be coming every week. Didn't you hear about this?"

Nope. Nico and I looked at Odds-sensei.

"I did hear about this, but I didn't know when you'll be coming or what you'll be teaching, so I thought I would tell them once everything's decided," Odds-sensei said helplessly. He probably came on a whim since it was only talked about and it wasn't official.

What a troublesome person.

But, he's welcome to come.

"Whath, ah, what are you theaching?"

I jumped up and down.

"Lei, calm down. I'm sure it'll be something interesting."

Nico put pressure on me while trying to calm me down. I think I did it unconsciously though...

"Oh my, expectations are heavy. Why do you think I came in the morning?"

Now that I think about it, Nii-sama comes after lunch, and it's annoying how I fall asleep after eating. Our expectations swelled up even more when we heard the word 'morning'.

Unlike Nico and I who were happy, Mark looked a little trouble, and he looked at Odds-sensei who had a complicated expression on his face.

"Don't worry. I got permission from His Highness Lambert. I got it some time ago, but I thought I should come here quickly."

"But, you have to study, and I don't think it's safe."

"I have my guards with me, and this is inside of the castle."

That was when Odds-sensei backed down. Mark looked towards us and smiled playfully.

"Today, I'll take you around the castle."

We opened our mouths wide again. A tour of the castle? Oh yeah, I always go straight to Nico, so I only saw the long corridor once. Nico's eyes were sparkling too.

"Let's go!"

"Go!

This is a trip.

"Nathawie."

"Lei-sama, that's good."

"Are thhere shweethsh?"

"Sweets? Ah, I brought some with me just in case, but are these alright?"

Natalie rummaged in her bag and took out a small package. This smell is my favourite sponge cake. I glanced at Nico.

"Of course, I have more."

"Thanwsh Nathawie."

I was relieved and put the small package into my pocket. I'm glad that she has some for Nico too. The stuffed rug dragon that I carry around with me as a lucky charm is currently next to my pillow and accompanies me to sleep. That was why I put the sponge cake into a different pocket.

"Ai. Leth'sh go."

"Lei, you..."

"W-well, it's fine. Don't tell me..."

The corner of Mark's mouth raised.

"We don't need a maid or Odds-sensei. We just need guards."

If someone from the Four Marquises says so, then they have no choice but to obey. Odds-sensei and Natalie reluctantly obeyed him. I had a guard with me, and so did Nico. Of course, it's Hans.

"It's a bit far, but do your best."

We went down to the first floor from the library and entered the corridor leading to the castle. The corridor was different from the one I had used when I first came to the castle. When we entered the castle, there was a wide passage and a curve. There were beautiful paintings on the wall, but I was interested in the intricate patterns on the wall, so I looked around restlessly while walking; then Mark picked me up.

"We'll be walking around the castle once a week from now on, so we'll rush this time."

"We're exploring every week?"

Nico's eyes are sparkling.

"Yeah. There's nothing wrong with knowing the castle where you live. You can study at the academy, so I don't get why they make a two and three-year-old study every day."

I recalled Mark's Otou-sama. He was a kind Oji-sama who told me to call him Har-ojisama, but he looked stern and seemed like he would be strict with home discipline, so it felt strange for Mark to say something like that.

"Marw, did you shthudy when you were withthwe?" (Mark, did you study when you were little?)

"Well, just a bit. But it was really just a bit, and all I did was play in the garden until I turned five."

"You wiwe running."

I nodded meekly.

"You don't do it, Lei?"

"I do!"

It's unconvincing when I'm held. We continued right through numerous complex passages, and I gradually lost track of where we were.

"It's surprisingly far."

"Because the castle is big." Mark said carefreely, then, "Ah, we're here," he said before trying to open the door.

"Marcus-dono," however, Hans quietly interrupted him. Marcus ignored him and touched the doorknob. However, Hans stopped him in a powerful voice, "Marcus-dono!"

"What?"

"Where are you taking Lei-sama?"

Oh my, he didn't mention Nico.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 136 - Between the Barrier

Chapter 136: Between the Barrier

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

"Oh? I don't think there's any place in the castle that the Four Marquises can't go to."

Mark took his hand off the knob and shrugged, but Mark continued to hound him, "That's only if they're the heirs. Or those who have inherited the eye colours of their House."

"Chrish."

So that's why you came when Chris wasn't here?

"Oh, Luke's treasured kid is so smart."

Mark tried to stroke my head, and I tried to avoid his hand, but couldn't.

"Hans. It's fine. Nico is a direct descendant of the royal family and Lei has inherited her violet eyes."

"But, they're too young. And, this is the role of their parents. That's why they don't bring their children with them when they're this young."

"You're annoying, Hans." Mark ignored Hans's words.

"People have ideas about how it should be. But, it's not prohibited. I'm the sensei today. I will teach them what I want to teach them.

"But..."

"Hansh." That was me.

"Hansh we can'th go over thhere?"

"Lei-sama. Well, it's not dangerous. But it's still too early for you to go there."

"Then ith'sh fine."

I looked at Nico, and he nodded. Nico was calm.

"Dear me, I'm going to open the door."

I peeked behind the door in excitement, but it was another corridor. I was disappointed.

However, Mark continued forward and opened another door. It's really like a maze. Yes, it's like a maze to make sure people can't go to the centre of the castle.

"Now, today I want to take you between the barrier."

"Bethween thhe barrier."

"I wonder how much you know, Lei."

Mark looked amused.

"It's a place that you probably won't enter ever in your life, Lei. It's the place that ties the royal family and the Four Marquises to Kingdom, the place where we maintain the barrier."

I don't think we should go to such an important place. I looked at Hans. He may be worried, but he seemed annoyed.

The problem isn't whether to enter the space between the barrier or not.

"Otou-syama feewsh down."

"Leila-sama..."

"Otou-syama wanthsh tho shhow Lei."

I'm sure Otou-sama would grieve since he wanted to be the first person to show me it.

"Well, I'm sure he does," Mark said smoothly. He ignored what I had said and opened the door with guards in front of it.

"Milord. You can enter Milord, but it's prohibited for others to enter."

However, he was stopped.

"This girl has inherited the eyes of the Four Marquises, and this boy is a direct descent of the royal family. The guards will stay outside."

"But..."

"I have permission from His Highness Lambert."

The guards backed down because they had no choice.

"Leila-sama, we can't follow you in."

"Ai. It'sh oway."

Mark is young, but he seems calm and won't do anything rash; and he's the sensei today, so I have no choice but to trust and follow him. Isn't it exciting to go between the barrier?

When Mark opened the door, he signalled for us to go in, so we went in while he was holding the door open.

"Wow."

Unlike what I had expected, the room was big. There was a table in the centre of the room, and the room was lit brightly.

And, that was all.

There were no windows. There were two doors besides the entrance, but there was nothing else in the room. It was quiet.

"Come on, let's go over there." Mark took us to the table in the middle. Nico held his hand out to me. I held his hand lightly, and we headed to the centre.

"I think I should hold Lei. See, it turns into this."

The round table-like thing in the middle wasn't a table, but a pedestal that had been embedded in the floor.

Mark picked me up, then put five big magic stones into the square frame on the pedestal; one in the middle and one in each of the four corners.

"The middle represents the royal family. The one facing the door symbolises the Remingtons. From there clockwise: the Albans, Lisburns and Molesey Houses."

"Big..." I couldn't help but say since it was that big. However, it wasn't as big as I thought. I instinctively looked for my Rug Dragon plushie to my right. Wait, it's next to my pillow.

The magic stones were about the same size as the Hollows that rarely appear in the prairie. It was too big to fit in my hand, but it fits nicely into the hand of an adult.

"The magic stones are about the same size because of the person in charge. There are few magic stones like this, so the castle buys them up when they appear in the market. Therefore, there are a few spares."

I was held up, and Nico climbed up the chair himself so that we could see on top of the table. The colours of the magic stones varied from light pink to dark purple.

How much will my magic fill? I remembered that Alistair had fainted when I had first seen him fill the magic stone for the barrier box. After that, I accompanied them to train our magic; then I began training on my own, so I think my magic reserves have grown much bigger, and my control has gotten better too.

I can refill the slightly faded magic stone. However, I don't think I can fill the pink magic stones until they're dark purple.

This is the power of the Four Marquises. This is the duty that Otou-sama is buried with, and Onii-sama will be burdened with it later.

I suddenly noticed that Nico was reaching out to the magic stones.

"Nico."

His hand stopped.

"Oh, you can't do that, Your Highness. You don't know how to do it, and if your magic happens to be sucked up, then it'll dry out," Mark said as if he was surprised. He put me down, then carried Nico off the chair.

Nico and I looked at each other.

We know how to channel magic, and although I can't fill the barrier magic stone until it's full, Nico can probably fill a magic stone until it's full since he has more magic than me.

If I can do it, then I want to try. Nico's eyes said.

"No."

"I want to."

"No."

"Well, if you say so, Lei."

It's not my problem. Nico's Otou-sama will probably get angry. I decided to distract Nico.

"Marw, where do thhoshe doorsh go?"

"Oh, the resting place."

"I want to see!"

When I pulled his hand, he chuckled and walked towards the door.

"Nico!" I also called out to Nico, who was staring at the magic stone table.

"Alright."

"I'm going to open the door."

The other side of the door that Mark showed us was like a small hotel.

There were two big beds, a small table and chair, and a tea set.

"The door over there leads to a small bathroom and shower."

It really is like a hotel.

"But, I don't think anyone uses it. Everyone leaves once they finish their work."

"Whath abouth thhe othher door?"

"It leads to another place, but that's still a secret."

Then, it got noisy beyond the door where the guards were stationed. What the heck is going on?

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 137 - An Adult is...

Chapter 137: An Adult is...

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

"Now then, I'll show you how to channel magic into the magic stone before someone disturbs us."

"You can'th."

He can't do that. If you show a baby how to channel magic into a magic stone, then they'll want to try it for themselves, wouldn't they?

"Lei, why? I want to see."

"Nico. You can when you geth bigger."

Mark glanced at us, and ignored me, then he began channelling magic into the light coloured magic stone that belonged to the Moleseys.

Since it's already like this, then it's better not to disturb his concentration. Nico and I had no choice but to watch him. It started getting noisy outside. The magic stone gradually darkened. Mark frowned while focusing.

Then, the door opened with a bang not long after.

"Father!"

I wondered who it was, and it was Nico's Otou-sama. Nico's Otou-sama glanced happily at Nico, who had called his name, then he looked at the magic stone on the table and Mark, around the room, returned his gaze to Nico, then looked at myself and Mark.

"Molesey. What are you doing?"

"I'm showing them around the castle., Your Highness. Since I wanted to show them a bit of the castle."

"I allowed you to show them around the castle, but I didn't give you permission to show them between the barrier."

Marcus raised his eyebrow in surprise.

"You didn't tell me what I couldn't show them."

Normally, you wouldn't take small children to an important place like this. Nico's Otou-sama probably didn't think that Mark, who looked like he had frozen, would bring us here.

In fact, I don't think there's a rule that states that no one but the Four Marquises, the royal family and their direct line can enter this place. That's probably why the guards at the door had let us in, and Nico's Otou-sama couldn't press Mark hard.

However, this is under the premise that everyone knows that other people shouldn't enter here. No one imagined that the heir of a Four Marquis family would do something reckless like this.

"You can't bring them here. No matter how smart they are, children are beings that make you want to tease them. At any rate, if these two were to faint, then we must not let anything interfere with the Kingdom Barrier."

His Highness Lambert can only reason quietly. Mark gently removed his hands from the magic stone while Prince Lambert was talking. The magic stone had been filled to a dark colour, and there was a bit of sweat on Mark's forehead. He had only channelled his magic for a short amount of time, but I can tell that he had consumed a considerable amount of magic.

"And, why did you show them how to channel magic!? It's alright to show Nico, but why did you show Lei as well? She's the most reckless child in a way!"

Rude. Didn't I try to stop Mark?

"Father, Lei tried to stop Mark-dono. She's a good girl."

"Nico, I didn't say that she wasn't. I said that she's reckless."

Nico's Otou-sama looked awkwardly at me.

"After all, Lei has probably done some reckless things."

I haven't, what did I do? I folded my arms and turned my head to the side.

"Argh, if Albans knew about this..."

"What about Albans?"

"Otou-syama!"

I ran up to him, and he picked me up right away. At that moment, I felt like I saw Hans behind the door. Hans must have gone to get Otou-sama. He is indeed my guard.

"Tour."

"Tour?"

Otou-sama looked at me suspiciously when I explained what we were doing.

"Touring thhe cashthwe."

"I see, so you were on a castle tour. Lei is so smart, you know everything."

"Ai!"

I puffed my chest out proudly in Otou-sama's arms.

"But, why did you show them the room between the barrier, Mark-dono?" Otou-sama's voice was so cold that it was below freezing point.

"Be-because I thought I should show them the most important place in the castle first."

"I see. But, I don't think you needed to show little children who don't even have enough power to fill magic stones how to channel your magic into one."

Mark started sweating and averted his gaze.

Mark said he is 20-years-old. He is older than Gill and Felicia, and is the oldest out of the Four Marquises children that I have gotten to know recently. But, he is still younger than Bart and Mill who are 22, and their 23 year old group, and also younger than Prince Huu.

And, he is carefully cared for since he is the heir, so he's been living his life carefreely.

I squinted and looked at Matk.

What I'm saying is that Mark is a child.

He is different from Bart and his crew who constantly work to support themselves and raised their name up as hunters. He's also different from Prince Huu, who is supporting his country as the second prince and thought of his country and people first.

He's only a little younger than them, but he only thinks about himself so he ended up like this.

I'm sure he didn't have some hidden agenda behind this. He simply wanted to add this to our studies by taking us out to play, surprise us along the way, and wanted us to respect him a little.

I could tell when I saw him channelling magic into the magic stone.

Mark is a lot worse at manipulating his magic than Nii-sama. He also doesn't come close to Alistair's level, but he manipulates his magic more efficiently than Bart and his crew.

In other words...

"Marw noth sensei."

The room that had been surrounded by a heavy atmosphere became quiet.

"Marw shhouwd shthudy more."

The adults looked like they had frozen in surprise, and Nico looked at Mark, pitifully.

"Marcus-dono, how about you come when Luke is teaching? Let's study about magic together."

Then, he patted Mark's thigh as if to encourage him.

"Wha, I'm...! I can already channel magic as part of the Four Marquises! Why are you saying this when I can already do it!"

"It'll be useful for you. You go to the Albans house to learn how to manipulate your magic sometimes, don't you? You should learn from Luke with the children."

"Otou-sama!"

Mark looked like he had messed up, and the current head of the Molesey House finally showed up.

Mark probably brought us to between the barrier in secret, and took a different path here so that he couldn't get caught. Nii-sama wouldn't do something as sloppy as that. No, Nii-sama wouldn't do sloppy things in the first place.

"I'm sorry. It's shameless as a parent that my adult son has to be told these things. He will accept any form of punishment you wish to give him. It's absurd for him to be a sensei. Like His Highness Nicholas said, he should learn how to manipulate magic for a while from Luke-dono with the children." Mark hung his head down in shame at his father's stern words. Up until now, he hasn't been excessive or inadequate in his political affairs or when filling the magic stones.

"You know that there are no punishments for those who sustain the barrier," Nico's Otou-sama said in annoyance. Indeed, for example, if Otou-sama can no longer channel his magic into the magic stone, then the barrier will be rendered useless.

"Albans. I want you to reason with Marcus since you know the importance of young children. Now then, everyone is dismissed. "

Which means, Nico and I should go back to our rooms. So, what will happen to our tour?

"Down."

"What's wrong?"

I asked Otou-sama to put me down, sat down and took my snack out of my pocket.

"Nico, sweethsh."

"Lei, you..."

"If we're going tho go bacw, den I'm going tho eath dish."

"That's right, we're exploring the castle after all."

"Ai."

Nico sat down next to me and received his snack.

"Lei."

"Ai."

"I can only see a table."

"Dat's wright."

"Buffo."

That wasn't Hans. I turned around and saw it was Nico's Otou-sama."

"Alright. Marcus. Take them to the courtyard. Return to the room after they've finished eating their snacks, and receive your lecture from Albans."

"Understood."

Marcus is a little useless as a teacher, but it might be alright for him to lead our tour. That day ended with a visit to the courtyard.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 138 - Chris's Study

Chapter 138: Chris's Study

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

I don't know what happened to Mark after that. Nico's Otou-sama told Otou-sama to lecture Mark, but I don't know how he was lectured.

"Marcus-dono is probably fine."

"Nico..."

"I'll go out of the castle in the morning when Onii-sama comes to teach," Nico muttered. Nico was probably worried too. It's not funny when a three-year-old worries about a twenty-year-old infant. However, Nico said that he will be four soon.

"If Marcus-dono is gone, then we wouldn't be able to go out on outings like you said, right Lei? I still want to explore different parts of the castle."

"Nico..."

It was a rather selfish reason. Though it's the same for me. Children wander around in a limited space. It's enough for most of them to move around their houses, and if they go too far, then they get tired. Therefore, children can't be taken all around the place.

You've gone all the way to Frontier, you say? I didn't go there because I wanted to. If I could have chosen, I would have gone to town and ate food at the stalls. However, Bart and his crew often brought food for me from the stalls in Lentforce.

Thus, the lively Nico might want to explore. I know how he feels.

"What is an outing?"

"Ith meansh tho thravew a withthwe far." (It means to travel a little far)

"So, it's travelling?"

Chris is here today, but it seems like she didn't know that there was an uproar because we went to between the barrier the other day. If she doesn't know, then that's good. Nico is a curious child, so I don't know what these two would do together since they move around a lot more than me. I have to act proper.

"Your arms aren't crossing."

"Dey are."

I can understand that it is fun to go out and explore. Well, I did feel like we were studying when we went out, but that's fine.

Today will be Chris's first magic practice. Felicia came here this morning to drop Chris off, and she had worriedly said, "Isn't it still too early for Chris to learn?" But, I wanted Chris to start training as quickly as possible, so the timing was just right.

Chris is a normal child who can listen properly even though she has grown up spoilt. Sometimes, she gets irritated and acts wilful. Although she's an infant, I can't understand what is going on in her mind.

However, what I do I know is that she has a lot of magic.

She will get cranky on days when her magic is unstable, just like Nico. Even when she got cranky, it didn't seem as bad as when it happened to Nico, and she didn't get violent. Still, I think it would be unpleasant to feel bad without understanding the reason behind it.

So, I talked to Nii-sama about this beforehand. He was against it at first.

"Hmm. I'm basically against learning magic manipulation before the age of 10. Small children don't know about moderation, so they might go too far in the name of training. However, it might be worth trying if she doesn't feel good."

"Ith'sh bethther tho ushe a fun way tho wearn." (It's better to use a fun way to learn)

I showed Nii-sama the broken light magic tool that I had gotten in Lentforce.

"Liwe dish and dath." (Like this and that)

*LIGHT*

"Woah, it's dazzling."

I giggled. Oh yeah, this is the first time I've shown this to Nii-sama.

"I see, you can directly channel your magic into magic tools...?"

"Ai!"

"That's why you're able to make your own barrier, I see, Lei."

"Ai?"

"Let's go see Otou-sama?"

In the end, I failed because I got scolded for being reckless. Well, that's fine. He didn't say we couldn't directly channel our magic. He only said that they'll probably be motivated if it's fun.

"Lighthsh up. Fun. Ith'ww be fine withh a shmaww magic shthone." (Lights up. Fun. It'll be fine with a small magic stone.)

"That's right. It might motivate them if it's the smallest light magic stone."

While watching us speak, Otou-sama looked like he couldn't agree.

"I've never seen it before, but does Chris have that much magic? She didn't inherit the eye colour of the Four Marquises, so even if you say that she has a lot of magic, she probably doesn't, right?"

"I didn't pay much attention to her either. We don't know how much magic someone has unless we concentrate on them."

"Smawwer thhan lei'sh. Buth a woth." (Smaller than Lei's. But a lot)

At least, she has more magic than a normal person.

"Let's check that too."

"Ai."

Thus, Nico, Chris and I waited happily for Nii-sama after lunch on the day he was coming to the castle.

"Ah, it's Marcus-dono."

"Why is Marcus-dono here?"

Mark came directly from the castle before Nii-sama and Gill arrived in the carriage.

"Your Highness Nico, Lei, and Chris. I'll be joining you today."

"Marcus-dono, did you really come here to study?" Nico asked seriously, and Mark smiled wryly.

"I got scolded a lot after that. First from Dean-dono, then my father. Good grief!"

He hasn't reflected on his actions. I looked at him sternly.

"Lei, I won't be careless anymore. I promised that I won't be reckless, and that I will plan and submit a proposal before I take you exploring again."

"Can I bring shnacwsh withh me?"

"Of course."

"Then, thhath'sh awrighth."

"Exploring?!" Nico was overjoyed.

"But, on the other hand, I need to study again from Luke-dono. So, I'll be your Sensei while we're exploring, but right now we're classmates. I look forward to study with you too, Chris."

"Fine," Chris said as if she had no choice but to say that. Nii-sama arrived while we were talking.

"No way, I really didn't think Marcus-dono would be here..."

"Gilbert-dono, it's gotten really troublesome so let's call each other Gill and Mark, alright? Please call me that as well Luke-dono and Your Highness."

"Hmm. Then, everyone can call me Nico."

The lesson which started off frankly, ended up with Chris stumbling a bit.

First, Chris seemed uncomfortable because Nii-sama and I were staring at her.

"Hm. This is..."

"I wnow righth?"

When I looked at her magic again, I saw that it wasn't as much as the Four Marquises but it was much more than people in the markets.

"Chris, do you sometimes get annoyed and feel uncomfortable?"

"Why do you know that? At those times, everything I do is boring and I feel bad."

"It might be your magic making you feel bad. Let's try letting it out a bit. You might feel better if you do that."

"I want to try."

Nii-sama looked at me.

"Ai. Thish ish a wighth magic shthone." (Ai, this is a light magic stone.)

I took out the small light magic stone out from the magic tool and showed it to Chris. The colour on the stone had gotten thin.

"Channew your magic intho thhish."

"Luke! What are you making a small kid do?! She'll faint!"

"Mark, it's fine."

While Gill was holding Mark back, I showed Chris how to slowly channel her magic into the magic stone. It turned a darker colour.

"No way. She's fine?!" Unlike the stunned Mark, Chris looked like she was having fun. Her eyes were sparkling.

"Wow."

"Puth your bad feewingsh intho dish."

I handed another magic stone to Chris.

"Bad feelings."

"Cowwecth ith in your body, yesh." (Collect it in your body, yes)

She probably thought of something very disgusting. Chris's magic was channelled into the magic stone as if it was driven out of her body.

"See, ith'sh gone."

"Somehow, yes, it feels refreshing."

Chris tried moving her body around.

"Then, you thurn dish."

"Like this?"

Chris turned the key. *LIGHT!*

"Bright!"

I giggled.

"Dish ish Chrish'sh magic."

"My... magic..."

"What the heck did the Albans make her do...?" Mark muttered while looking at the happy Chris and I. Nii-sama quietly averted his gaze from me.

The Albans didn't make me do anything. I learnt this on my own. But, isn't this good? Both Nico and Chris are better now.

"Sthudy magic."

"Is that what I have to do...?"

Mark stared off into space.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 139 - Mark's Study

Chapter 139: Mark's Study

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

I took out a big magic stone out of my bag for Mark. Since the Albans deal with magic tools, we can collect as many magic stones as we want. When I asked Otou-sama to get me magic stones of various sizes to study magic, he said, "I don't really care about Mark's or Christine's magic training, but if you want them, then I'll get them for you, Lei," and collected a lot for me.

I chose various magic stones from among those he presented me with and brought them here. Mark can fill up magic stones of any size, but his magic should be used to fill the magic stone for the barrier. So, I couldn't let him fill a big magic stone.

"Well, if you get Mark to fill this magic stone, then we can sell it for a lot if we put it into a barrier box. There's been a lot of demand for barrier boxes recently, so the more magic stones we have the better."

"Otou-syama..."

Otou-sama wasn't interested in business before, but he became a little bit more interested in it after I got kidnapped.

"We can make a lot of barrier boxes if it's just for selling, but if the magic stones can't be filled in the end, then the boxes will just end up being disposable items. Having said that, there aren't many who can fill magic stones for barrier boxes. It's fine for you and Luke to fill up magic stones to practice, but we can't sell those if it can't be used continuously."

It's wonderful that he's troubled, but it's funny that he's trying to sell the magic stones which Nii-sama and I use for practice.

Before I was kidnapped, there was an accident where I had accidentally channelled my magic into a magic stone even though I was still a baby, but I survived Frontier thanks to that. When I returned and Otou-sama found out about this, he tried to keep me far away from magic stones, but he decided that it was better for me to grow my powers and allowed me to train my magic and fill magic stones.

Incidentally, filled magic stones are bought at a reasonable price, and they're put aside as mine and Nii-sama's savings. However, Otou-sama said it was like trash since we'll inherit a lot.

So, the magic stones that I took out were a little bigger and could be used to boil a lot of water.

"Yesh, Marw. Swowwy, swowwy." (Slowly)

"Channel my magic in slowly? But, I can fill this in an instant."

"Swowwy."

Nii-sama and Otou-sama have seen how Mark uses his magic, but I haven't. I know that he has a lot of magic because he's part of the Four Marquises, but that's all.

I stared at Mark as he channelled his magic into the magic stone. Nii-sama was next to him, Gill was behind him and Nico and Chris were beside him; they were all staring at him curiously.

"It's hard."

Mark looked pale, but he started to concentrate. The magic that was overlapping with his body started shaking. He had no method. He was just pouring his large magic pool into the stone.

"Nii-syama."

"He's a bit better than before."

"So?"

Nii-sama and I whispered to each other.

"I can hear you. I know Luke thinks that way, but you too, Lei?"

The magic stone quickly turned dark purple, but there is a problem.

"Didn't she say to do it slowly? Even I can do it."

"Your Highness Nico, you too?!"

Mark slumped over. People who can't see magic aren't conscious about magic. Shall I try pushing my magic into him like I did with Alistair and Nico?

"Marw, thawe outh your hand."

"My hand? Alright."

Mark obediently held out his hand. I held his hand with both hands, and gently pushed my magic into them.

"Uo, uoah."

Mark reflexively pulled his hand away and rubbed his arms as if he had gotten goosebumps.

"What was that?"

"Magic."

"Lei's magic?"

"Ai."

Mark was still rubbing his arms.

"It even made my shoulders feel chilled. I've never experienced anything like this before."

"That's how magic overlaps with your body and people usually aren't aware of this."

"Yeah, but..."

Nii-sama explained to Mark, "Lei's magic didn't run up to your shoulders. Lei only pushed your magic, and the chill is from your own magic."

"My magic."

"Your magic doesn't just exist in your shoulders, it's also in your feet, chest and everywhere in your body. Magic manipulation allows you to become aware of your magic and move it around your body. So, you can freely take it out or in at will."

"So that means that my magic will leak out in vain if I can't do this?"

Nii-sama and I nodded. Oh my, Hans is moving weirdly in the corner of my eyes. Behind me? Be careful?

"You're doing something interesting." Someone suddenly said. Was Hans referring to this? But, it was Nico's Otou-sama's voice. I wonder what he's worried about.

"Uncle!"

Nico jumped and broke off in a run. He was running to his Otou-sama who had short hair. No, he looks like Nico's Otou-sama, but he's not.

"Your Highness Albert," Nii-sama muttered, and everyone fixed their postures. Of course, Chris and I were a little late to react. After all, I've never met him before. Since Nico called him uncle, he's probably a Prince. Nico clung happily to the Prince's leg.

Prince Albert glanced at us and muttered in surprise, "Aren't all the Four Marquises bloodlines here?" I looked at Chris who hadn't recognised Prince Albert and was impressed that he recognised her as a Remington even though they have never met. He can tell the rest of us are because of our eye colours. He's someone who pays attention to the situation around him and has studied a lot.

"Al, it's been a while. Did you come back from your inspection?"

"Oh, no. I just arrived back at the castle, but I wanted to see Nico first." Prince Albert responded casually to Mark, who had greeted him cheerfully. Then, he looked down at Nico and ruffled his head. He probably spoils his nephew. And, Mark was his classmate?

"A lot of things happened while I was out on my inspections?" Prince Albert muttered and Nii-sama said quietly, "Your Highness. It's been a long time since you've returned, so we'll leave early today. Please spend time with your family."

"Luke? It's fine. I can't get in the way when Nico's having this much fun."

"Uncle. We're studying about magic right now."

"Oh. Continue."

I felt a bit strange. I've always thought that Nico's way of speaking is stiff, but it seems like he was affected by how his beloved uncle spoke.

"Then, weth'sh conthinue."

"Lei, we're continuing?"

"Ai."

Mark seemed pitiful. I'm certain he doesn't want his classmate to see him learning from a toddler. But Mark did grasp something before. However, Hans was shaking his head and telling me to stop from a distance. I faced Nii-sama and his expression said that we couldn't stop now. So, we can only continue.

"Spread that chill from your shoulders. Lei can do it for you again if you need her to, but it didn't feel good, did it?"

"You're right. Alright, concentrate, feel the chill. Only my arms got cold and I got goosebumps. Do I just need to think that my body's cold? Chill, goosebumps, uoah."

It looked like his other arm was getting goosebumps too.

"Somehow, it feels like my body's swaying."

"Your body isn't swaying. You just think that you are because you're conscious of your magic."

I gently held Mark's hand.

"Lei."

"Concenthrathe ith on thhish hand."

"My hand feels warm. And it won't move. I see, my body and my magic, they're different things..."

"Nii-syama, magic shthone pweashe."

"Move the swaying parts, right? Alright, here."

I made Mark hold the large magic stone.

"Sway nashthy thhingsh here."

"Uooah."

"Bith by bith."

Mark's magic shook more gently than before.

"Whoa. That was hard."

"Marw, good job."

"You did well."

Nico and I complimented Mark and he smiled wryly.

"It's tough, but easy to understand. The Albans siblings are the strongest."

"Of course."

Why does Nico sound proud?

And, I was scolded by Hans, "Why are you so careless, Lei-sama?" when Prince Albert looked at us while thinking about something. Nii-sama did it too! When I replied, Nii-sama said that he'll get Otou-sama to scold me.

I think their demands for an infant are too high.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 140 - Sleeping Child

Chapter 140: Sleeping Child

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

Afterwards, Chris pleaded, "Today isn't just for Mark, you're supposed to teach me too," so we also got Chris to experience the feeling of her body swaying. I was more careful when I channelled magic into Chris and she giggled strangely, "Wah, it tickles. It tickles."

And, infants sense magic a lot faster, although she wasn't as fast as Nico, she was able to perceive magic. I took a breath and wiped the sweat on my forehead. Nii-sama and I did a great job. I turned to Nii-sama and reached out to him, "Nii-syama, howd."

"Ok, come here."

Nii-sama picked me up while smiling and swayed me to sleep. So, why does Nii-sama come after lunch?

◊♦◊♦◊♦◊ Luke's Perspective

"So that's the infant who was kidnapped and taken to Wester?"

"Yes. She's my sister, Leila." I gently put Lei onto the bed that had been placed in the library and answered Prince Albert while putting a blanket on top of her. I could hear her calm sleeping breaths.

Nico and Chris came to look at Lei sleep since they were curious about something. Mark and His Highness could have renewed their old friendship, but they were also watching Lei sleep, probably because it was a rare sight to see.

"You can't shake her."

"I've already tried it, but she didn't wake up."

"You've already tried?"

"Because Nico said that Lei won't wake up even if you shake her."

I was shocked and glared at Hans a little. I felt like I could hear him say, "It's not like she's going to wake up anyway, so it's fine." Natalie was lightly shaking her head left and right. She was probably saying that she did try to stop them, but it was useless.

I want to come here in the mornings and hang out with Lei all day but can't because being a student is a hassle. I'm 12 years old now, so I have four more years until graduation.

Lei had just had lunch, but she was chewing in her sleep. I wonder if she's dreaming about eating something.

"Now, Your Highness Nico and Chris, Gill's also here with us, so why don't we go outside to play."

"Let's go."

"Yeah. I wish Lei could come too."

"Lei is still a baby, so I heard that she needs to sleep a lot."

"Then, I'll come play too?" Mark said to the two. The corners of his mouth were lifted up a bit. He probably wanted to say that His Highness Nico is also a baby.

"Really?!"

"Alright."

Gill smiled wryly as he took the three outside. It's been a long time since Mark has seen His Highness Albert, is it alright for them not to catch up? I brushed Lei's cheeks and tried to follow after them.

"Luke," however, His Highness spoke to me. I don't think it showed on my face that I was annoyed.

There is a King in Kingdom, and the crown prince, His Highness Lambert is excellent, and they also have Prince Nicholas, a direct line to the throne. They all have ridiculous amounts of magic. Prince Albert, the second prince, has made it clear that he will support Prince Lambert and Prince Nicholas when he graduated from the academy, so there were no fights for succession. He goes to various places for inspection and is the only member in the royal family who moves around a lot.

The royal family who protect the barrier are even more restricted than the Four Marquises. When Prince Albert said that he was going on inspections, the supervision department had objected. However, he calmly persuaded them, "The King and Crown Prince are in good health, is there anything else stopping me?" So, he could move freely now.

In the past, there were times when the magic of the Four Marquises wasn't enough to keep up the barrier. Those times were stormy, but the magic of the royal family and Four Marquises combined is enough to keep up the barrier right now, and I heard that there are no problems within Kingdom. However, I'm still only 12. There are a lot of things I don't know. I don't want to think deeply about why the Prince is moving around or why the royal family allowed him to do so.

"Yes, Prince Albert?"

"I think I saw something amazing today."

"Hah, is that so?" I didn't know how to reply since I was thinking about what he was going to say.

"I went to see my brother before I came here but decided that I would come see Nico since I was worried about him. But I found out that he had playmates now and doesn't lose his temper. My brother smiled and said that I would see something interesting if I go see Nico straight away."

Prince Lambert seemed like a mischievous person, and Prince Albert didn't particularly seem to want to know these things, but it was a bit refreshing to see that Prince Albert was having a hard time.

"I don't even know how many surprises I've had. However, the maids and guards didn't try to stop you all. What the heck is going on?"

The maid and guard who were left here were Hans and Natalie, but I could see that they were slightly looking away.

"First, you let a baby manipulate magic. Second, you let a baby hold a magic stone. Thirdly, you let said baby channel magic into the magic stone. Fourth, you let a baby inject their magic into another person. Fifth, you let a baby..."

"I get it. In other words, Lei surprised you a lot, right?"

"And, Nico is acting like this is natural. Don't tell me you're letting them hold magic stones too?"

Just like how Otou-sama treasures Lei more than anything else, His Highness treasures Nico more than anything else. However, I will say this. I'm repeating myself, but Lei is more important to us than anything.

"It would have been helpful if you had heard about this more from His Highness Lambert."

I implied that I was really annoyed.

"His Highness Nico's excess magic caused his tempers. By transferring the excess magic to magic stones, he can remain calm without throwing any tantrums."

His Highness looked like he understood me.

"And, the person who noticed this was our Lei. The reason why she noticed...."

I looked straight at His Highness.

"... was because she faced many dangers in Frontier," I said in a loud voice.

"Hans, Natalie."

"Yes, Luke-sama?"

"I came here as a sensei, so I'll go outside to look after Prince Nico and Chris. Don't leave Lei."

"Yes."

"Understood."

This is His Highness Lambert's residence. If it isn't safe here, then it isn't safe anywhere. So, this was my warning to Prince Albert.

I was implying that I didn't trust him with Lei since he only thought about Prince Nico.

"Excuse me."

"Wait." I pretended that I hadn't heard his panicked voice. If he has questions, then he should ask Prince Lambert. Then, he should regret it after he realised how much Prince Nico likes Lei.

"Was there ever a blunt Albans?"

Of course, I didn't hear his voice. I closed the library door.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 141 - Too Many Princes

Chapter 141: Too Many Princes

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

Prince Albert was already gone by the time I woke up from my nap. The only impression I had of him was that he was an Onii-san with short hair, but come to think of it, I feel like Ojii-sama said something about Prince Albert.

"Lei, did you forget? Well, it's fine to forget something like that."

Was it fine to forget it? I tilted my head a little inside the Rug Dragon basket. The next day is a day off, so I've been riding the Rug Dragons with Ojii-sama since morning. Of course, Nii-sama is with us.

"Ojii-sama came here for, you know, Lei's debut as well, but I have also been waiting for Prince Albert to come back from Frontier."

"Mawwage intherbiew!"

Isn't it no good to forget that? I only forgot because I was having too much fun.

"So, you do remember it. Lei is a smart girl." Ojii-sama smiled happily on the dragon next to mine. However, cold wind blew straight into my chest. Prince Albert being back means...

"Ojii-sama, going bacw."

"Lei, I'm sorry."

My small mutter didn't ride in the wind and echoed around the pasture. Ojii-sama also looked sad.

"I really want to stay in the Albans mansion and spend time with Lei and Luke, but work is work. I have to go back to my fief soon."

"Lei and I can visit you at your fief."

"Ai."

Nii-sama suggested for the future and made me feel happy. That's right. We might be able to go to the fief in the north for Nii-sama's spring or summer holidays.

"Lothsh of dragonsh."

"That's right. There are big and small dragons, and there's a lot of grassland."

I'll ride my Minnie in those grasslands.

"Minnie? What's that?"

"Hmm, shmaww one."

"You're calling her Minnie because she's small? Lei chose a strange name for her Rug Dragon," Nii-sama said, but it was troublesome to call my dragon small all the time. The problem is, "Minnie!"

"Kyee."

"Kyee."

"Kyee."

When I call Minnie, a lot of dragons gather like this. They leave when they find out that I only need the small dragon, but I think it was pointless to give her a name.

I thought that the only thing that involved me with that short-haired Prince was Ojii-sama... until the second day of the holidays when His Highnesses visited our house.

"You should really be aware that you're a member of the royal family. You shouldn't visit other people's mansions like this."

"Albans, I said this before, but don't the royal family and the Four Marquises have a relationship? Don't worry about it."

Sparks were flying between the adults, but I was overjoyed that Nico had come over to play on a holiday. His Highnesses referred to Prince Lambert, Prince Albert and Prince Nicholas.

"Nico!"

"Lei! I came to play!"

I also smiled at the smiling Nico.

"Why do I feel like that baby didn't inherit the cleverness of the Albans's gold and purple?" Prince Albert blurted out. I don't mind being told that, but I'm not exaggerating when I say that Prince Albert has turned all the Albans into his enemy. He shouldn't have said it even if he had thought it. Nico looked at Prince Albert in amazement.

"Uncle, you shouldn't say this and that about how a person is. What will you do if they get stuck with it? Isn't she cute?"

"Hish highneshsh Aw gethsh zero pointhsh, you geth 50 pointhsh, Nico." (His Highness Al gets zero points, you get 50 points)

"Uncle has etiquette, but isn't my 50 points low?" Nico seemed dissatisfied.

"You awsho shay a woth." (You also say a lot)

"Really? Sorry about that."

Nico seems the most royal. It's fine if he apologises.

"Your Highness Al, are you talking about me?"

"I'm also called Lam-ojisama. Shall we change you to Al-ojisama?"

"No, you don't have to. Brother."

It seemed like they were having fun, but an adult is an adult, and a child is a child. Nii-sama invited us outside without getting in the way of the adults. His face said that he wanted to get away from something annoying.

"Then, Lei and Your Highness Nico, let's go see the Rug Dragons."

"That sounds fun!"

"Lei wanthsh tho shhow you her minnie!"

"Minnie? What's that?"

I put my hands on my waist and puffed my chest out.

"She'sh Lei'sh excwushive dragon!"

"What?! I have to see her!"

Nii-sama turned around.

"His Highness Nico wants to ride in Lei's basket, but what do you think Otou-sama?"

"Hmm, Your Highness, are you alright with this?"

"It doesn't matter what I say."

Otou-sama was talking to Prince Lambert. Nico's Otou-sama smiled wryly.

"If Lei's alright with it, then Nico will be fine with it. I'll get the guards to go with you, so don't overdo it. Take care of them."

"Understood."

Us, children, happily headed towards the pasture.

◊♦◊♦◊♦◊ Troublesome (Dean's Perspective)

My father-in-law honestly wanted to follow Luke and Lei, but he had to entertain the royals who had come to my mansion. Furthermore, he had stayed here so that he could meet Prince Albert, so ignoring him would be mistaking the cause for the end.

I also work at the centre of this kingdom, so I know that the request from Farland is a dangerous one.

The cause of this was Lei being kidnapped, so I can't say that I wasn't involved as an Albans.

However, what would Kingdom have done if Lei hadn't been kidnapped and only the lost child of the Lisburns was in Wester?

I guided them to the room facing the greenhouse at the request of His Highness while thinking over this repeatedly.

I don't think Stan would have gone to pick him up. He might have sent someone to check up on the boy and then provide aid to Wester. However, he wouldn't have tried to bring the boy back to Kingdom.

What about the supervision department? They probably would insist that Stan should go pick up the boy and not let him support Wester. Since they don't understand that the world doesn't move conveniently for Kingdom.

And, how about the royal family?

I think they would have had a round-table conference about this. And just like what happened last time, people will agree, disagree or be neutral on the matter. What stance would I have taken if Lei wasn't involved? I probably would insist that the Lisburns didn't need to pick him up nor provide aid to Wester.

However, the round-table conference isn't a place where majority rules. It is a place where everyone who governs a fief shares their opinions and effects.

The current royal family values our relations with Frontier more than the past monarchs. So, I think they would provide aid to Wester even if a lot of people approved or disapproved of it.

In other words, it didn't matter if Lei was involved in this or not, the result wouldn't have changed.

I thought that much and relaxed.

The problem is Farland isn't the only place who wants to talk about engagements, Wester is too.

There's nothing more annoying than this.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 142 - Marriage Interview (Dean's POV)

Chapter 142: Marriage Interview (Dean's POV)

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

"If you're going to Neville, then shall I make the preparations for that?" The first person to cut the fuse was my father-in-law. He looked like Lei and Luke's kind Ojii-sama just before, but now he looked like the proper Earl Neville. He didn't look like he was blaming anyone, but he looked suspicious about what had happened.

"I was supposed to rest for a week after my inspection before heading to Neville fief. I came here today to greet you and talk about the schedule," Prince Albert said.

"But, Albans, as you know, Easter is..."

It's no secret that Easter would look for partners amongst their own nobles if they just wanted a marriage interview. Prince Lambert looked as if this matter was troublesome. So, I don't know how it is for the royal family.

"At any rate, I thought it would be fine to do the marriage interview if you are going to refuse it anyway, but the other side wouldn't mind having a marriage interview with a Four Marquise either."

"With a Four Marquise?"

We never thought of that. The bloodline of the Four Marquises must never leave Kingdom. Unlike the clear rule of the head of the Four Marquises not leaving Kingdom, this is only a custom. The Lisburn child is currently in Wester.

For example, the head of a Four Marquise House, or an adult heir cannot leave Kingdom, but they can if they have yet to become adults. If someone insisted that this is a custom and not a rule, then a lot of things can be done.

"If Albert goes to Farland, then Easter wants to have a marriage interview with one of the Four Marquises. They hope to meet Molesey or Remington."

"That's stupid. We can't let the next head of the House leave."

"They won't be leaving. The Easter blood will enter Kingdom."

"What meaning will that have?"

Even if I say so myself, their tone is gradually becoming rude, but there is little profit for the Four Marquises to marry. I heard from Luke, who went to Wester, that even royalty didn't have much magic, and the third Easter Prince, who may have been involved with the people who had kidnapped Lei, has no magic.

Still, what benefit does this bring Easter?

"They're probably reaching out to Kingdom to keep an eye on the next generation."

"Does that mean it's better to let Wester's royal family develop a barrier in their fief?"

Easter borders the large mountain range in Wester, but they don't have any large mountainous districts; they have rich plains and is said to be a peaceful country without any damage from the Hollows. If I had to say it, then they gain no benefits from the magic stones obtained from the Hollows, but if they are looking for benefits from the magic stones, then it's a problem since they will have no choice but to get expensive magic tools from Kingdom.

Thus, Easter is supporting Kingdom with food, and they haven't had any complaints about this so far.

"I wonder if the peaceful era has lasted for too long?" Prince Lambert said.

I heard that there was an era when Kingdom couldn't maintain the barrier even though they had it up and there was unrest. Wester and Farland have also attacked Kingdom before. There has also been a civil war within Kingdom. However, the relationship between Kingdom and the three countries have stabilized for some time, and Kingdom has continuously been protected by a strong barrier, so there are no disputes from within.

"I wonder if they can't be satisfied with the world we are in, or something more than that."

"Then, shouldn't they do their best in their domestic affairs?"

Prince Albert struck the table with a bang.

"We should turn our surplus energy towards our people in peaceful times. Even in Kingdom, there are people who can't survive and live on the streets if you go outside. The only way to fix this is to create new jobs. There is still land which can be turned into farmlands out of town, but they're just left as they are. That's why we can become self-sufficient and won't need to rely on Easter. And it's the same for the three Frontier countries."

These may be his thoughts after inspecting Kingdom for several years.

"Certainly, activities are restricted at night because of the Hollows. However, we've faced Hollows for many years, and we should be able to produce things without damage from them if we're not reckless. I don't think it's bad for Wester to attempt putting up a barrier. It would be a problem if they didn't do anything for their people."

It might be good that the people who stand at the top are burning with ideals. However, I have to say something.

"I think it's luxurious if the effects towards the people only depend on the abilities of some people."

"It's luxurious, you say?"

Wester's royal family is burning with ideals for their people. However, their ideals won't manifest if they don't rely on the magic of those from a foreign country.

"How can we say that our powers will always stay stable? Even in Kingdom, if one of the Marquises doesn't have enough power, then it's over. It's a dangerous plan, Prince Albert."

"But even then, it would be fine if my brother or I can fill up for the missing portion of power."

"This is a luxury because we're in an age where we have a lot of rare magic users. If we look back at history, there have been a lot of times when only one person in each family had enough power, and the times were dangerous. If you create a system that relies on magic users, then what will you do if there are less of them in Prince Nicholas's time?"

Prince Albert was at a loss for words.

"It's good to create jobs for the people and open up farmland, but that's only if you can create a system that doesn't rely on magic users. I think it should be a system that can carry on even if the number of magic users decreases."

Is it too early to talk about this to a man who is still only 20 years old? Prince Albert went silent and Prince Lambert hit his shoulder.

"Hahaha. Albert is lucky to have Albans say this much when you don't normally express your thoughts."

What's amusing? However, Prince Lambert's expression quickly changed back, then he looked at me.

"We'll talk about internal affairs slowly afterwards, about Easter however..."

"Yes, what's wrong with them?"

"The Remingtons are interested."

"Hah?"

The Remingtons are interested?

"Felicia-dono is certainly at a good age. However, I don't think Angie would make her daughter get engaged to someone who doesn't suit her since she follows her own thoughts."

"Albans, so there's something even the wise you can't see? Remington is ambitious. And who said it would be Felicia?"

"No way."

"She didn't state this. But she's probably thinking about Christine."

Am I also a pampered Kingdom noble since that thought hadn't come to me at all? Prince Lambert was laughing since he hadn't seen a surprised Albans's face before, but I was so surprised that I didn't care at all.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 143 - Unexpected Suggestions

Chapter 143: Unexpected Suggestions

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

"That's not all. The partner from Easter's side is also a noble, and a royalty will accompany him because of his studies, so it's kind of hard to refuse."

"That's rare."

Since nobles and royalty from the other three Frontier countries aren't forbidden from travelling, they may come to Kingdom under the pretence of sightseeing. Even so, it was rare for royalty to come here.

"And it's the Third Prince."

"What did you say!?"

I reflexively stood up.

I don't know the truth. However, Lei said that the Third Prince had attacked her in Frontier. It was only something a baby said, but I reported this to the royal family.

"According to your report, the Easter's Third Prince appeared calmly at Wester castle. He honestly couldn't have done that if he was the person who had attacked Lei. And he definitely wouldn't be able to show up in Kingdom."

I'm worried about this too. Even when I investigated rumours about the Third Prince, nothing showed up that supported such a thing. He isn't the son of the Princess Consort, but he's recognised as the Third Prince because he has the eye colour of the royal family, and he travels everywhere like Prince Albert does.

Just from that, he could go into Wester and Kingdom under the pretence of an inspection, and if he does his business in secret while on those trips, then he would be able to hide what he was doing.

However, what benefit does it bring to the person in question? And, if he isn't doing this for personal gain and it is something that his country wants, then what the heck is Easter trying to do? I don't understand why they kidnapped Lei and tried to make her into the deceased.

"Don't you want to meet him? It's a good opportunity to see if what Lei said is true or not. At least, you could see what kind of person he is with your own eyes."

"Certainly. That's true, but..."

I was a little annoyed that Prince Lambert just casually called Lei's name, but on top of being a foreign prince, someone who I couldn't investigate was coming here himself. This is a good opportunity.

"But Lei probably won't feel safe with him around. No, she probably won't want you to meet him. So..."

Prince Lambert looked at Prince Albert meaningfully.

"I was able to travel the country freely because I'm the second Prince. As a result, I gained a lot of things, and if there's a chance, then I think the royal family should see more of Kingdom."

Although they are royalty, the current King and Prince Lambert cannot move freely around the royal capital. Which means...

"That's right."

Prince Albert nodded.

"But, Prince Nicholas is only three, even if he's smart, he's too young to learn anything even if you take him with you. I'm not part of the supervision department, but if I think about his safety, then it seems reckless to take the pivot of the next generation with you." I pointed out calmly.

"But I think it's a good opportunity. The Four Marquises who I never imagined would leave the royal capital went outside of Kingdom. The supervision department was gradually forced to give permission. And, Albert is going everywhere. Until now, the royal family hardly left the royal capital." Prince Lambert was the one who said it was a good opportunity.

"Nico will surely be the next King. So, he won't be able to move freely for long."

The past Kings were like that too. Their movements were restricted more than the Four Marquises.

"So I thought I'll let Nico follow Albert for training purposes this time. It's a marriage interview that Farland is pushing for. I desperately want to protect Nico."

He finally brought it back to the main subject. But what does that have to do with the Albans?

"So, I would like Gilbert Lisburn and Luke Albans to accompany them as educators."

"You want Luke to?"

He said something surprising.

"By the way, if you let Lei go with them as Nico's classmate, then at least she wouldn't meet Easter's Third Prince."

So that's his point? I nearly laughed at her being called a classmate and followed my arms while thinking.

Luke has also heard about Easter's Third Prince. He hadn't put this into words clearly, but I feel that Luke has a bit of an attachment to him. If any royals come, then Luke must go meet them as one of the Four Marquises. I also want to observe what happens when those two meet.

But I don't want to make Lei meet him. I don't have to make her meet him since she's still a baby, but it's still safer to keep a distance between them. I'll be away from Lei and Luke for a while, but what can I do?

I seemed to have been thinking for a long time. I came back to my senses with a single sentence from Prince Lambert, "Do you not want to separate from your children that much?"

"Because she's been away for a long time."

"Dean."

I was stunned. I was distracted by Prince Lambert and forgot about my father-in-law.

"Prince Albert would have his usual attendants and guards with him, but that won't be enough if Prince Nicholas goes with him too. And, it'll be quite a big deal if the two families, the Albans and Lisburns go with him too."

"Of course, they also have guards in the castle. Earl Neville, can't we do something about this?"

Prince Lambert turned to my father-in-law.

"If that's what you want to do, then I can only answer that I don't mind. However, we must protect the children. For me..."

My father-in-law looked at me and raised the corners of his mouth.

"I thought I had to wait until summer holiday, but if I can see Luke and Lei at my fief, and travel with them there, then I would welcome it."

"Father-in-law! That's..."

I wonder if I can go with them somehow. I remembered when I brought Lei back home from Wester when the Rug Dragons surrounded her in the basket at the prairie. Whenever I raised my face, Lei was there and so was Luke. The Rug Dragons would speed up as if they were dancing whenever the puu sounded.

During the break, we would sit on the grass and drink directly from the water canteen. When we made new grass whistles and tried it, the dragons would get excited and the guards would get angry.

"That's not fair. I want to go to Neville too!"

"Albans..." Prince Lambert muttered as if he was looking at someone disappointing.

"We'll be troubled if you don't stay in the royal capital."

My mind knows that.

Thus, Lei, who had finally returned home, will go out on a long trip again.

Easter's Third Prince. I hope nothing happens, but if something happens, then I'll destroy it.

"Dean..."

I'm only thinking this, Father-in-law.

"Kuku, that face that tries to trick people is exactly the same as Lei's, haha."

Rude.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 144 - Preparations Done

Chapter 144: Preparations Done

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

It was troublesome that we had to take the carriage to the pasture. Still, it was rare for Nii-sama, Nico and I to ride in a carriage together, so it was fun.

"I've never really been out of the castle."

"Nico, you came tho my debuth thhe othher day."

"Hmm, I haven't done that in a long time." Nico nodded in satisfaction.

"If that hadn't happened, then I wonder when I would have gone out next."

"But, Your Highness Nico, the castle is huge, isn't it?" Nii-sama looked as if he was thinking about the castle.

"Hmm. I went to the space between the barrier the other day, but even if it's big, I can't go wherever I want."

"That's true."

"There are roomsh thhath lei doeshn'th wnow abouth in her houshe thoo." (There are rooms Lei doesn't know about in her house too)

Come to think of it, I haven't been everywhere in the mansion. I also only found out the other day that there was a room leading to the greenhouse. In the first place, I go to the castle like Otou-sama, so I don't have time to explore.

Now that I think about it, aren't I working too hard?

"What's wrong Lei? You're pouting."

"I'm noth."

Rude. I crossed my arms. I won't accept it if someone tells me I am.

"Lei mighth be worwing thoo much." (Lei might be working too much)

"Working too hard... Guhh."

"Nii-syama..."

I looked at Nii-sama coldly as he held his stomach and laughed.

Nico nodded, and said heavily, "Hm, we aren't working, but I think we can take more breaks."

"Thath'sh righth!"

I unfolded my crossed arms and raised my right hand. I agree.

"Puha."

"Luke..."

Nico also looked at Nii-sama coldly.

Two young infants were staring at him coldly, but Nii-sama didn't stop laughing for a while. He's at an age when even the slightest thing seems funny. Is he going through puberty?

We reached the ranch while we were talking.

I wanted to jump off the carriage, but I patiently waited for Hans to help me down. I can't take away his job as a guard.

Then I ran towards the pasture with Nico and stopped at the fence.

"Lei wiww caww her dragon now." (Lei will call her dragon now)

"Oh! I'm excited!"

I arrogantly turned towards the fence and cried out in a loud voice, "Minnie!"

"Kyee."

"Kyee."

"Kyee."

The Rug Dragons quickly gathered before me. Of course, Minnie was there too.

"Wow Lei. I didn't think you had that many Minnies." Nico looked at me in admiration. Of course I don't have that many Minnies.

"You're wrong. Ith'sh thhath shmaww one thhere." (You're wrong. It's that small one there)

"O-oh. Really?"

"Kyee." The Rug Dragon looked at Nico and said something.

"Kyee."

"Kyee."

"Kyee."

"Wh-what's wrong?"

She would smell the fence as she squealed and sometimes pressed her head against it. Nico was puzzled. I felt like she was saying that there were more small children now and she was wondering if he was healthy.

Nico was a little scared but he didn't try to run away.

"Do thhish ath thimesh wiwe thhish." (Do this at times like this)

I held the head of the dragon who was pressing their head and nose against me.

"Kyee."

Good child, the dragon left while blowing out their nose.

"Like this?"

Nico boldly put his arms around the Rug Dragon's head.

"Kyee."

"Kyee."

"Kyee."

You pass, I felt like I heard them say.

"Dragonsh are nice creathuresh." (Dragons are nice creatures)

"Kyee."

The dragons, who were checking Nico out, left in satisfaction, and Minnie, who remained behind sighed.

Enough, everyone won't remember that I'm Minnie, you say?

I feel like they do remember, and they just come anyway...

By the way, I always wonder this, but what is Nico's guard doing? I turned around in doubt, and he was frozen with his arms still stretched forward.

"What are you doing?" Even Hans is amazed.

"No, I can't predict what would happen when Nicholas-sama and Lei-sama are together."

"Enough of your excuses. Pull it together."

"Yes."

Oh my, Hans is cool.

"Lei-sama, you don't understand why I'm the perfect guard for you, do you?"

I thought he was just someone who laughed too much.

However, Nii-sama gave out instructions and a basket was attached to Minnie's back. Nii-sama explained to Nico's guard, "Lei and I have ridden this dragon many times to see if it was safe to ride. Hans."

"Yes, Luke-sama. When Lei-sama and Luke-sama use this basket, I always accompany them on a good dragon, but nothing happened, and we didn't have any close calls either."

"If Luke-sama and Hans-dono say so..."

The guard agreed to let Nico into the basket. Not in a carriage, but in the basket. My first basket ride wasn't made of good memories, but I think this experience will be nice for Nico.

Even if the string was tightly attached to us, we could still see around us clearly.

"Oh! Wow! Minnie, you're cool!"

"Kyeeee."

So you know I am, Minnie cried out and glanced at me.

"Of courshe Minnie ish coow."

"Kyee."

Well, yeah. Minnie raised her head and waited for the signal.

"Ai. Minnie, go!"

"Kyee."

Minnie proceeded pretentiously.

"Ooh!! It's high! Lei."

"Ai. The wind feewsh nice."

Nii-sama rode on his own dragon and happily ran beside us while the guards stayed a distance away.

And, other dragons were following us too.

"Minnie, run!"

"Kyee."

Even if I told her to run, she only marched faster, but it was noticeably quicker.

"She's fast! Hahaha!"

Minnie, who ran smoothly along the fence, returned half-way to the start, then did another round on her own and stopped when she got back to the starting point. She ran her normal course without me having to say anything and didn't seem tired.

When Minnie came back with us, the dragons seemed satisfied and scattered around the pasture.

"That was amazing."

"Ith fewth good."

Nico's guard watched as we ran around after we got out of the basket and sweated even though it was still cold.

"This is my first time experiencing this. I knew that dragons gathered together, but they bunched together as if they were protecting Lei-sama and Nicholas-sama."

"It's surprising, isn't it?"

Hans slapped the guard's shoulder.

"I didn't know what was happening before I realised that they were protecting the two and panicked."

It is said that dragons don't attack anything. But, their bodies are big so if you get trampled on or bumped, then you'll get serious injuries, and it's exciting to be in the group. The guard was probably unsettled.

"Lei-sama, if you feel sorry for the guard, then you should behave yourself a bit."

"Lei awwaysh doesh."

What are you saying to a baby who can only totter? Of course, tottering is just a metaphor and I'm not actually tottering.

"Ever since Lei-sama came, I feel more nervous than an ordinary guard."

Is there a normal guard and an abnormal guard?

"Once more! I want to ride once more!"

"Oway."

I acted a bit pretentiously, and cheerfully rode the basket again with Nico.

"Those two and Luke both look like they're ready to go to Farland. As expected of my grandchildren."

We didn't notice that the adults, who had come to the pasture, were staring at us from a distance and that Ojii-sama was nodding in satisfaction.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 145 - The Third Prince

Chapter 145: The Third Prince

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

"Me too?!"

"Lei two?"

When we came back from the pasture and heard what Otou-sama had to say, Nii-sama and I both raised our voices.

Of course, we would. I also didn't think that I would go on a trip like this, no, I didn't think that I would end up going to Ojii-sama's fief.

It was after Nico, who was shouting happily while riding Minnie, had returned home in a good mood to talk to his Okaa-sama.

Nico, who I normally see, didn't laugh loudly even if he looked happy and raised his voice. He is a super three-year-old who is usually calm (the person, himself, insists that he's nearly four). He might complain a lot, but he studies probably, so I've only seen his serious side and this side of him was refreshing to see.

I think he's probably overjoyed at hearing that he is going to the north.

"However, Prince Nicholas is a direct descendant of the royal family. He has inherited his large pool of magic from Prince Lambert. The royal family is taking quite the plunge, letting such a person go out of the royal capital."

"I was honestly surprised. Well, they'll have to persuade the Supervision Department now, but it is a request from the royal family who usually don't make unreasonable requests. They'll say something to get permission. And, Prince Albert is already travelling all over the place."

Otou-sama answered Nii-sama's question and said it was probably fine.

"If I can go to many places, then I would like to go everywhere. This is the second time I'm going to Ojii-sama's fief, but I was thinking of taking Lei there in the summer, so I'm happy about this, but..." Nii-sama looked down at me worriedly.

I know what he wants to say. It has only been a few months since I've returned to the royal capital. Meanwhile, I ended up being a playmate for Nico at the castle and my debut had just finished not long ago. He might have been worried about whether I could settle down with such a hectic lifestyle.

Moreover, people normally don't think about taking two-year olds on long journeys. Especially not me since I have the blood of the Four Marquises and I have been kidnapped before. The culprit had been caught, but he was only the criminal who took me at the end, and the criminal who first took me out of the royal capital and the mastermind are still unknown.

"Nii-syama."

But I don't care about those things.

To begin with, if worrying would have caused me not to be kidnapped, then I wouldn't have been kidnapped. People around me have to think of ways to keep me safe. On top of that, if they want to take me with them on this journey, then well, I don't mind going with them.

It's a lie. I'll be happy to go out if I can. And isn't that my Okaa-sama's home? And, I'll be with Ojii-sama, Nico and Nii-sama. Oh, and Gill too. Isn't this journey full of fun things?

However, there is something I'm worried about.

"Otou-syama?"

There was an indescribable silence in the room.

"Lei, come here."

"Ai."

When I approached Otou-sama, he suddenly picked me up and put me on his knees.

"Otou-sama has another job to do. Because of that job, Otou-sama can't leave the royal capital," he sounded dispirited.

"Otou-syama, wonewy." (lonely)

That's what worries me the most. I was away for half a year already, so will he be able to endure me being away for another few months?

"Lei! Otou-sama actually doesn't want to let you go."

"Dean," Ojii-sama called Otou-sama's name in a reprimanding tone as Otou-sama hugged me and cried. Otou-sama's body jumped a little. I thought.

Something's going on.

Then, I looked at Nii-sama from the top of Otou-sama's knees. He nodded.

"Otou-sama. Even if we're his playmates, there are no reasons for us to follow Prince Nico. If that was the reason for us going, then why isn't Chris coming along?"

"That's because the balance would be off if three of the Four Marquis lines go with him."

"Just having us and Lisburn with him is already too many. And, just me or Gill would be enough, right?"

I can't go by myself now can I? I tilted my head and Nii-sama answered like this, "I'm really worried with Lei going by herself. If Lei goes, then of course, I, as her older brother, will go as well."

I see. I looked up from Otou-sama's knees. Nii-sama was staring at Otou-sama too.

"Uoah."

"Haha. Dean, you lost face to your two smart children."

"I don't have any dignity at all."

Ojii-sama laughed at Otou-sama.

"Even I can tell that they're smart children after spending a little bit of time with them. Especially Luke, he'll pick up the rumours and come to conclusions on his own after this. So, isn't it better to explain it to both of them right now?"

Otou-sama swayed me on his knees as if he was hesitating a little. I think he would have told Nii-sama about this sooner or later. He was probably hesitating about whether to tell me.

"Otou-sama, Lei is fine," Nii-sama said of me.

"But..."

"The more information we have, the better. You usually don't tell things to two-year-old and quietly protect them, but Lei is different. No, I think we should protect her, but I think it's better for her to know everything as well."

Otou-sama swayed me as if he was worried for a second, then stopped as if he had made up his mind.

"Actually... While Prince Albert is meeting with the noble in Farland, the Easter's Third Prince will be coming to the royal capital."

Easter's Third Prince. The guy with the yellow eyes? I think my eyes turned sharp.

"Lei?"

I squirmed down from Otou-sama's knees, then turned to Otou-sama and Ojii-sama.

"Cathch me even if I'm weaw or even if I diw," (Catch me even if I'm weak or even if I die) I said in a low voice. Otou-sama blinked and Ojii-sama frowned.

Otou-sama probably had only heard that the man who took me had yellow eyes, resembled Easter's Third Prince and that the Prince apparently recognised me.

Because Otou-sama didn't want to hear about how I was living in Frontier directly from me.

"The Third Prince shaid when Lei ran away."

"Lei, what does diw mean?" Ojii-sama was trying to decipher my words somehow.

"A dead pershon. Liwe Hannah."

Someone gasped. It might have been Jude.

Nii-sama heard the story from Bart and his crew, and I've also told him myself, so he knows how painful it was for me. However, Otou-sama had only heard the story from Nii-sama and not directly from me, so he might have avoided telling him what kind of situation I was in.

Thus, they hadn't really thought that the Third Prince was suspicious. For the time being, I understood that they wanted us to go to the north to keep us away from unpleasant memories.

"Bad pershon. Otou-sama, be carefuw," warning him was the only thing I could do.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 146 - Are You an Adult or Not?

Chapter 146: Are You an Adult or Not?

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

Did Otou-sama understand what I wanted to say? I want to believe that he nodded seriously at that time.

In short, I understand that a noble from Easter will be coming to the royal capital and that the Third Prince will accompany him under the presence of observation.

And, it seemed like they were trying to make it so that the Third Prince and I wouldn't meet even though he had come up with some sort of excuse.

Just like in Wester castle, I don't think either side would make a fuss even if he comes to the royal capital since I'm being protected by everyone. Therefore, Prince Lambert and Otou-sama's concerns weren't necessary.

Rather, I felt like I wanted Otou-sama to see how the Third Prince would behave when we're around him.

However, there's no helping it. As Prince Nico's playmate, no, study partner, if the royal family tells me to go, then I can only go.

"That's not fair. Just Lei and Nico."

"It would have been nice if you could come too, Chris," Nico comforted Chris in disappointment.

If Prince Albert was leaving alone, then he could leave at once, but it took a long time to prepare since the heirs of the Albans and Lisburn families were coming with him, so my study session with Nico was conducted normally the following week after our trip was decided.

In other words, Chris and I were studying with Nico in the castle.

I heard from Otou-sama over the weekend that Chris wouldn't be going, but Chris had only heard this for herself this morning, so she was in a bad mood. I think she wants to go.

"If Lei can go, then I can too!"

"Lei is Nii-syama's exthra," I made a lame excuse. Nii-sama was going as Nico's magic teacher and I will also be joining them.

"Now, Chris, I'll take you home if you continue to be angry."

"No, I don't want that, Nee-sama."

Chris was reprimanded by Felicia and finally quietened down. Even so, Felicia didn't just reprimand her, but also hugged her tightly as well.

"Nee-sama."

"I know how you feel. Even Nee-sama wants to go with them."

Chris clung tightly to Felicia's waist.

"Nee-sama will stay behind with Chris, right? I'll try not to work too much and make time for us to be together."

"Really?"

"Really. I'm usually a good girl. So, I have to get my reward to play with Chris."

Felicia muttered as she looked at Chris who was bouncing around happily, "I won't let you do anything to Chris. I'll protect her."

What do you mean? I couldn't ask her what it was about. Nico said, "Now, it's time to study. I'm the best today too," and Chris replied, "Oh my, I don't know about that. I'm the oldest one here." I don't know what they mean by that. It doesn't matter whether you win or lose in studying.

"Ah, Lei is already half-way up the stairs!"

"She's slow, so she went ahead!"

They noticed me. I'll say it again, winning or losing doesn't matter. But I'll say this, "Lei ishn'th shwow." (Lei isn't slow)

That was rude. It's just I might be a little short, that's all. After all, I went ahead. This time, I decided that I would climb the stairs ahead of time.

Chris had given up on coming along, but Mark seemed unsatisfied.

"I'm already an adult, and I take turns to fill the magic stone with my father and fulfil my duty as a Molesey. So, isn't it fine for them to take me along as a reward for my hard work?"

I doubted whether Mark was an adult or not when he said something like reward. And, I want him to say that to Prince Albert who was sitting on the sofa with his legs crossed and reading a book instead to Nico and I who were reading. However, Chris wasn't here today, so I was glad that he didn't remind Chris about how she wanted to go.

"Hey, Al. I want to go."

It seemed like he was finally done with complaining to infants. This time, he was grumbling to His Highness.

"If I take you with me, then there will be two bachelors of the same age on the trip. 『I don't mind marrying into the Molesey's either』, if their target changes to you, they will prepare a lot of noble ladies to marry into both the royal family and the Molesey House."

"It's the same even if I stay at the royal capital. Once you accept it, I'm sure they'll send people to the Moleseys as well as the Remingtons."

"Mark," His Highness quietly called Mark's name. Mark was surprised and looked back at us, but Nico and I clearly heard what they were talking about.

"They'll."

"Remingthon."

Nico and I both said what was bothering us. They were talking about the marriage interview. Which means, the Remingtons are also participating in this.

"Fewicia, marriage intherview."

"Uncle, who are they?"

Nico and I both said what was on our minds and Mark shrugged as if it was bothersome, and Prince Albert looked up at the ceiling.

"I really can't let my guard down around these two," Prince Albert muttered to himself, then told us, "This idiot was talking about adult stuff. It's not something children should hear or be involved with. You two just need to think about your trip to the northern fief."

Sometimes, isn't it nice to have an adult who cuts into a conversation like this? Since we're only two and three years old. However, if we couldn't listen to this conversation, then they wouldn't have talked about it.

Nico pretended to get a new book and moved to the back of the library. I took the picture book and followed after him. Nico seemed worried about what book to choose, but he spoke to me in a small voice. From a distance, it looked as if we were discussing which picture book to take.

"Lei, who are they? Do you know?"

"Otou-syama shaid Eashther."

"Easter?"

It seemed like Nico was only informed that we would be following Prince Albert. Of course. His head was already occupied with going on a trip.

"Uncle is going to the fief for a marriage interview. It's the same for Mark even if he stays behind. In short, the Remingtons and Moleseys also have marriage interviews."

"Fewicia, marriage intherview."

"I didn't know that Felicia wanted to get married."

"Lei eithher."

It may be unavoidable considering her age, but Felicia had her hands full with becoming the next head and with Chris, so I don't think she's thinking about love or marriage.

"Although, Mark should get married soon. Since even Uncle is going to a marriage interview."

"Marw ish shthiww a chiwd." (Mark is still a child)

"Lei you shouldn't say rude things. Mark is the same age as Uncle even though he's like that."

"A certhain Prince ash weww."

"What about me?"

Nico and I froze while still facing the bookshelf. We could feel Prince Albert behind us.

"Me too. Mark is what?"

Mark was there too. In the end, we were lectured again and told to think about our trip to the north. I think adults who pry are the bad ones too.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 147 - Meeting

Chapter 147: Meeting

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Sam

They said that guards would be prepared for our departure, so I wondered how many guards they would gather, but it was a let-down to see that they only totalled 50 people. It happened a few days before our departure.

Prince Albert said that he didn't need people to wait on him hand and food, so adding up his guards and attendants, he travels with 10 people altogether.

"There are no thief groups in Kingdom like in the old stories. Even if someone does attack us, their groups won't be more than 10 people, so it's okay. If we increase the number of people by more than this, then we'll be a nuisance in the places we stay at."

Or so he said. Apparently, it looked bad for a royal to stay at an inn so he would always stay at the residence of some noble in the places he visited.

Nii-sama and Gill also had guards with them, and Prince Albert had assembled the elite convoy corps. Of course, I have Hans and Natalie with me to look after me.

I had a deep connection with the convoy corps even though I'm still only two. When I was kidnapped, the convoy corps went with Otou-sama to chase after me and they went to Wester's border to pick me up too. A young man who looked stubborn led the convoy corps. It seemed like he was serving as the captain this time as well. His name was certainly, "Gracesh," or so I think.

Graces said, "You remember me, Leila-sama," and his serious expression loosened a little.

"You don't seem like Milord's daughter," I'll pretend I didn't hear that mutter. We were meeting each other, but it seemed that Prince Albert also had things to discuss with the convoy corps.

"It's because they're two and three."

"I'm nearly four."

"It's because they're two and nearly four." It was amusing to see Graces correct himself when Nico retorted. Prince Al talked to Graces about our journey.

"Still, Leila-sama is used to travelling. She was able to come back from Wester on a schedule that could be compared to an adult's."

"But, Nico is three."

"Nearly four."

"Nico is almost four years old, and I don't think he would be able to stay still in the carriage. I think we should take a lot of breaks and get to an inn early."

Shouldn't you have made plans beforehand and informed all the nobles in the places we'll be visiting? I think that it would be a nuisance to the nobles in the places we're going to since they still haven't decided on a schedule. However, we weren't in a rush on this trip. My precious Otou-sama is waiting for me at the royal capital and Nii-sama will always be with me on this trip. I don't feel anxious at all.

"Nico, shthudy. Can'th be hewped even if we're thogethher." I said to Graces. Even if this was for Prince Al's marriage interview, Nico also had to study.

"You..."

"Whath are you doing?"

Prince Al crouched down in front of me and pinched my cheeks with both his hands.

"Even though you're only two years old, and not used to travelling, you're still trying to get a say in the itinerary. Ooh, it feels soft."

"Leth go."

Stop rubbing and pinching my cheeks. Then, someone finally stopped His Highness.

"Prince Albert, please let go, that's childish. Just because Prince Nico gets along with Lei-sama, doesn't mean you can act shamefully towards her."

"Hans, you're saying too much. Even if that's true, you're being disrespectful. And, it's not Prince Nico, it's Prince Nicholas."

"Luke-sama, I'm sorry."

It was Hans and Nii-sama. Hans bowed admirably and rephrased what he had said, "Prince Albert, please let go. It's indecent even if Leila-sama is close with Prince Nicholas."

"Just because you say Prince Nicholas doesn't mean that the rest of your sentence isn't disrespectful." Prince Al scolded Hans while taking his hands away from my cheeks and standing up. Good grief.

"Lei, are you alright? My Uncle acts like a child sometimes."

Nico gently touched my cheeks. He was really different from his Uncle.

"Nico, I thought you were on my side."

Prince Al looked depressed. Why don't you decide on the itinerary instead?

"I thought we could visit various places ahead of time, but we shouldn't push ourselves. Let's keep to the original schedule and take it slowly. It'll be easier to stay in Neville since the Albans are with us."

I have uncles in Neville and there are Rug Dragons there too. Apparently, they had already decided on a schedule, but they were discussing whether we should come back earlier or not. I'm fine, but I think they should make a schedule that gives us plenty of time since Nico is coming along.

"That's fine. Lei seems used to travelling, but she needs time to nap. She sleeps a lot after all. Uncle, you should consider this little matter and travel slowly."

"Nico, impreshshive!"

It seemed like Nico's words were the deciding factor. The guards got lively. I also want to discipline Nico as his study partner. I praised Nico, crossed my arms and nodded.

"Why do two young children have the right to decide?"

"Well, because we're only going over what we had already decided."

Prince Al sighed for some reason, but Nii-sama was looking at him as if saying he was reaping what he sowed. After it was decided that we would go on a journey, Nii-sama gathered information from the Academy and talked to Mark.

The day when I came back home from preparing for the trip, Otou-sama secretly told me, "I don't know if you'll understand me even if I tell you this, but Prince Albert is going on this trip so that it wouldn't cause trouble to the other side, but he's not travelling for pleasure. So, he thought it would be fun if he took his beloved nephew with him. The royal family is pressured more than the Four Marquises to stay in the royal capital. Prince Albert has hated that ever since he was little, that's why he wanted to take Prince Nico out while he still could."

I don't care about the reasons, but I think it's good for Nico to travel.

"The problem is that we were conveniently dragged in. To be honest, I wanted to confront the Third Prince with Otou-sama."

"Lei two."

"You can't Lei."

Nii-sama was lying down next to me and he shook his head.

"I felt like there was a bigger problem in the royal capital rather than the north. I've talked to Mark about the situation, and have had a serious discussion with you, but what will happen?"

"Marw."

I looked at Nii-sama as if saying was it really alright to talk to him about it? Nii-sama giggled and poked me in the cheeks.

"He seems to have his guard down around us and does act childish, but he's still the heir to the Molesey House. You can trust him. Having said that..."

Nii-sama looked up at the ceiling anxiously.

"He's not close with the Remingtons. There's nothing he can do about Felicia and Chris."

I didn't understand why Chris's name was mentioned at that time. I only thought that it would have been great if Chris could come along too.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 148 - Journey to the North

Chapter 148: Journey to the North

"Travel carefully," Otou-sama said as he saw us off, but even though he appeared calm on the surface, I knew that he was just pretending to be fine.

"I'll protect Lei."

"Luke!"

Nii-sama declared and Otou-sama couldn't hold back and hugged him. Then, the people, who came to see us off, raised surprised voices.

There were a lot of people. Since they thought it was better to publicly announce in a grand way that we were going to the north, we departed from the plaza in front of the castle and a lot of people from the royal capital were gathered here.

"Of course, you should protect Lei, but you have to look after yourself too. Both you and Lei are my important children."

"Otou-sama."

Nii-sama hugged Otou-sama back. I knew that they would hug me next, but I couldn't wait so I hugged their legs.

"Lei."

"Otou-syama. Nii-syama."

Nii-sama clung to Otou-sama who had picked me up. Seeing us three with shiny blonde hair and violet eyes getting along let the group of people know that the Albans House is definitely peaceful. It was an important matter which was connected to the stability of Kingdom's barrier and should be received warmly. Next to us, Gill was also reluctant to part with his parents.

"Lei, Luke and Gill, it's nearly time to leave," Nico called out loudly. Even the King and the Prince, both the owner of golden eyes, came out of the castle to see Nico and Prince Albert off even though the royal family rarely appeared in front of the citizens.

It was dazzling for the citizens to see the royal family up close.

We got into the carriage and everyone saw us off with a loud cheer.

"It has become public that the heir to Kingdom has gone out on a journey. There won't be anyone who would attack that group."

"Yes."

Prince Lambert agreed with the King's words with a complicated expression on his face. I don't think he really wanted to let Nico travel since he's still so young. However, there's nothing that can be done since we've already left. We have no choice but to enjoy this trip.

I always rode in a carriage when going to the castle every day. Still, it was fun to go down a different path and see different street views. Before long, there were barely any houses around, and I saw a familiar prairie. The Rug Dragons were having fun too.

"We'll ride in the carriage for the whole day today, and you can ride Minnie after we check the situation tomorrow. I also want to ride on a Rug Dragon rather than in the carriage."

"Ai!"

It's more interesting to ride in the dragon basket than in a carriage. Nevertheless, there is something called keeping up appearances, and it was necessary to let the citizens see us leave in the carriage.

We left in the morning, but we had lunch at a nice location. It had only been two hours since we'd left, but it was surprisingly tiring to sit in the carriage for the whole time. I got off the carriage after Nii-sama and stretched. I thought that Nico would get off the royal carriage, so I came to a halt. He didn't even stretch and ran around the prairie. The guards chased after him in a panic. I laughed.

"He'sh acthive."

"Lei, you..." Nii-sama laughed weirdly, but Gill looked at me as if he had something to say.

"Lei! The grass is tall!"

"Ai!"

I can only go to him since I was called. I ran towards Nico.

"Oh, Lei has finally stopped tottering."

"But she's toddling."

I, who had finally been recognised as no longer tottering, reached Nico.

"The grasses at the castle aren't this high."

"They geth higher in shummer."

"Really!? I have to come during summer too."

There was still some greenery left in the chilly, spring prairie, and the withered tall grass swayed in the wind. But this was probably interesting to Nico since he has only ever seen the garden at the castle.

I dropped to my feet and picked up a fallen stalk and showed it to Nico. We can only swing this around.

"Ei! Ei!"

"This is nice! Ei!"

We, who were fighting with the stalks, returned to where the carriage was while still holding onto our stalks and lunch was being prepared. There were two small table sets, one was for the royal family and one for us.

"Don'th need chair."

"Well, yeah. But they've prepared it for us, so sit down," before I sat down on the chair that Gill had told me to sit on, Natalie wiped my hands and picked out the withered grass from my hair. I thought nostalgically, if this were Dolly, then she would be upset.

Nico happily kicked his legs around and Prince Albert scolded him. Come to think of it, Otou-sama always comes to pick me up for lunch, so I've never eaten with Nico before.

"Lei, keep your feet still."

"Ith'sh Nico's fauwth."

My legs started swaying when I looked at Nico. Nii-sama scolded me and Ojii-sama meditated between us.

"Isn't it fine? Lei's still only two years old."

"Ojii-sama, I think it's careless not to do something even though you can." Nii-sama is strict like this.

"H-hmm. I see. The family would be overjoyed when Claire could do something. I'm glad Lei was born healthy."

"Ai!"

It seemed that Okaa-sama was treasured a lot because she had a weak body. Apparently, there's a picture of Okaa-sama when she was little, so I'm looking forward to seeing it.

After lunch, they quickly cleaned up and folded some of the seats in our carriage to turn them into a simple bed. I now knew why this carriage was slightly bigger than normal.

"It's for you, Lei. It's for when you feel sleepy after lunch."

"Wow! Buth, Lei ishn'th shweepy."

It's troublesome if people think I always, always sleep. I pouted.

"Today's destination is Coulter. It's a lake town. So, if you don't sleep now, then you'll miss the lake."

"I'ww shweep!"

Come to think of it, today's destination is the southern tip of the lake which is located to the northwest of the royal capital. I think we'll get to Earl Coulter's mansion tomorrow if we travel along the lake. In the north-western part of the royal capital before Neville is Earl Coulter's fief.

"This prairie is already located in Earl Coulter's fief. I didn't know that Mils Lake was this close to the royal capital."

Nii-sama explained the geography to me. I can feel the systematic shaking of the carriage through my warm blankets, and it felt like someone was patting my back.

"If you struggle that much then you'll be tired."

"She's naughty after all."

I'm not naughty. I'm a normal baby. However, Nii-sama said next, "Lei, Lei, I can see the lake."

It seems like I fell asleep. However, Nii-sama's voice sounded a little strange.

"Nii-syama, weird."

"I'm not weird. Lei, but..."

I got up from my bed and saw Nii-sama rubbing his arms. It was like he had goosebumps. Gill also looked at Nii-sama strangely. Nii-sama looked at me with hesitation and said while wavering, "Can't you feel it, Lei? There's something coming from the lake..."

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 149 - Mils Lake

Chapter 149: Mils Lake

"Wawe." (Lake)

I got someone to get me down from bed. When I took off the blankets, Natalie moved the things on the bed all over the place and it quickly went back to being a chair.

"Amazing."

"Because I practiced." Natalie nodded in satisfaction. She must have practiced a lot.

"Lei, go to your seat."

"Ai."

Nii-sama held me and put me on the seat. Then, I stood on the seat and looked out at the lake with Nii-sama. I might have seen it a long time ago. It seemed like we had come quite close to the lake. The lake which could be seen from the carriage was huge and I couldn't see the bank clearly. No, if I look closely are those hazy things mountains?

"Wewwingthon mounthainsh."

"That's right. Mils Lake is a large lake made up of water that flows out from the Wellington Mountains. It's so big that you can fit a few royal capitals in there."

"I didn't think it was this big until I saw the real thing. It's a magnificent view," Gill was also looking out the window. However, his feelings were definitely different from just being impressed. I tilted my head and sharpened my sense. There's nothing better than honing my senses at a time like this.

"Somethhing'sh differenth."

But it was a presence that I was familiar with. I recalled everything in order, but not through my memories of what happened after I returned to Kingdom.

Wester's royal capital, no. The town in the prairie, no. The sea town, that's it. And Wellington Mountains. Lentforce, the town that I miss. A town protected by a barrier. But, since the town was located at the edge of the barrier, the barrier would shake sometimes.

"There'sh a barrier, buth ith'sh weaw." (There's a barrier, but it's weak)

"That's it!"

Nii-sama opened his eyes wide. Scary.

Kingdom's barrier doesn't sway, and it doesn't sway at all in the royal capital. When I was in Wester, it felt strange to be in a barrier that was created by a barrier box or one that I had created myself. However, I'm always in the barrier since I returned to Kingdom and I've forgotten what it felt like to be out of one. The lake and the area around the lake had a weak barrier.

"Lentforce is on the other side of Wellington Mountains. According to Lei, the barrier could reach Lentforce. If the barrier is weak here, then it shouldn't be able to reach Lentforce. So then why?"

Nii-sama is smart. However, I recalled the nature of the Hollows when I was travelling with Bart and his crew. Why did they make camp by the river whenever possible?

"Ith'sh thhe wather. Howwowsh don'th wiwe wather. They can'th croshsh warge bodiesh of wather." (It's the water. Hollows don't like water. They can't cross large bodies of water)

"Lei, is that true? I've never heard this before."

Of course, you wouldn't have. What's the use of someone who lives in Kingdom knowing? On the contrary, even in Frontier, only hunters know about this.

"However, the Hollows being weak to water and the barrier being weak here are two different problems."

Really? Hollows are masses of magic. If that mass of magic is weak against water then wouldn't a barrier, which is made with altered magic, also weaken over water?

"Nii-syama, thhe barrier ish magic."

"A barrier is also a form of magic. Lei, is that what you're saying?"

"Ai."

Nii-sama pondered and looked as if he couldn't understand.

"The barrier can even pass such a high and thick mountain. Why does it weaken by water? Even if it weakens here, it returns to normal in the mountain range?"

Unfortunately, I can't answer that. Even I don't know why.

"Well, it seems like we'll reach the lake while you're thinking. Anyway, I don't know. Maybe because we're by the lake, but I feel like it's a little humid. That's all."

"Then, is that explanation better?"

If the Hollows don't come even with a weak barrier then there's no problems.

"Pway! Wather!"

"I hope we have time for that, but it seems like people have come to pick us up."

"Okay..."

It's disappointing, but I am accompanying Nico after all. The lake is like a bonus. If the local noble wants to pick up Nico and Prince Albert, then I have no choice but to accompany them without playing in the water.

"Dinner, fishh. Lei wiwesh fishh."

"Fishh? Ah, fish? I think Mils Lake is famous for fried trout."

"Giww, amazing! You wnow a woth."

"O-oh. It's common knowledge, you know. It's close to the royal capital, so we eat it a lot there. But we're next to the lake, so it's probably fresh."

If I can't play, then I'm looking forward to dinner. If the fish is delicious then I don't care if the barrier's weak.

If it's like the time when I came back from Wester, then we'll be pampered since we're part of the Four Marquises. However, compared to the value of the Prince and the King's grandson going out of the royal capital, we were like rocks on the roadside.

They also thanked us for coming, but their welcome towards Nico and Prince Albert was magnificent.

Nico nodded calmly and responded appropriately to the head's greeting, but I probably wasn't the only one who noticed that his eyes kept flickering towards the lake.

I think it was evening by the time we reached the Earl's mansion. Then, we washed off the dirt from our trip, and greeted the local VIPs as well as the Earl's family. We dined together, then children under the age of 10 applied to be Nico's companions.

They treated us the same, and Nii-sama and Gill looked like they were having a hard time surrounded by dressed up girls. I, on the other hand, "Give me, anothher fishh."

What am I doing, you ask? Apparently, there were no boys here around my age, so I was left alone. Thanks.

As Gill said, the fresh trout here tasted amazing and the large trout that was fried with a lot of oil and garnished with a citrus-like fruit similar to lemon was yummy. I was given a small plate that had the dish cut into small pieces, but it wasn't enough. I want to eat more.

"Ojou-sama, they will bring out a weli nut cake. Is it alright for you to eat until you're full?" The waiter, who I asked for seconds, secretly told me.

"Wewi nuthsh! I wove dem!" (Weli nuts! I love them!)

"It's a specialty in this area."

"Ai!" I agreed in a whisper since I would be troubled if the waiter gets scolded. But isn't weli nuts a famous product in Wester? I left a little space in my stomach and was able to eat the weli nut cake to my heart's content while tilting my head.

Still, the night seemed like it would continue. Nii-sama and the other looked like they were having a hard time, but I went back.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.Chapter 150 - Hungry

Chapter 150: Hungry

I was done after I finished eating. Nii-sama and the others will remain behind, and he signalled an apology to me, but I have Natalie and Hans, so I'm fine. I quietly asked the waiter to do something after I caught them and went back to my room first.

"I'm glad I'm your guard, Lei-sama. Luke-sama is only 12 years old but being a part of the Four Marquises or royal family is so troublesome."

"Hans, don't say what you think out loud." It was funny to see Natalie quietly rebuke the grumbling Hans. As we slowly walked back to the room and prepared for bed, there was a knock at the door.

"I am here to deliver what you had asked for," a maid came in with a cart. There were two baskets on the cart.

"We haven't asked for anything," Hans spoke with caution.

"Lei ashwed. Thanwsh."

"You did? Please tell me beforehand."

"Sowwy."

It certainly is suspicious to have something delivered to my room. Still, Natalie took the basket for me.

"Now we're going outh."

"Going outh? What are you saying, Lei-sama? It's time to rest."

Hans rested at night when we were at the mansion, but he's been nagging since he's been with me the whole time on this trip.

"We're going tho where Nico ish."

"Prince Nico? He should be back soon, but why are you going out again?"

I stared silently at Hans. Hans scratched his head.

"Fine. But we're going back as soon as you're done."

"Ai. Natalie, thhe big bashweth."

"So, I'll be taking this one with me?" Natalie immediately picked up the basket. Hans had to keep his hands free, so we couldn't let him hold it.

There weren't any guards outside the door, so Hans took me to Nico's room without hesitation.

"This is Prince Albert and Prince Nico's room."

My room is also shared with Nii-sama.

"Hans-dono, what the hell happened for you to bring Leila-sama here at this time?" The guard in front of the door asked Hans. Shouldn't you be asking me that?

"Oh, Leila-sama has something to give to Prince Nicholas."

"It's true that His Highness has just returned, but now is a little..." the guard hesitated, but I knew.

"Nico!" I shouted a little loudly outside the door, and it opened with a bang.

"Lei?! Come in!"

"Your Highness, but..."

"Shut up! I want to be with Lei!" Nico snapped at the guard; he was acting like how he was when I first met him.

"Excushe me."

The room I had entered was more luxurious than my room. To begin with, this must be the living room since I couldn't see the bed. It's not like I'm jealous or anything. However, the clothes were sprawled on the floor, and the maid, who was with Nico, looked nervous. I pointed at him, "Nico, magic big thoday."

"What?! I channelled my magic into the magic stone before we arrived."

"Did you do shomethhing differenth?"

"Let's see," Nico tilted his head while I made him sit on the sofa, and I climbed up next to him. I love sofas, but it's a little too high for babies. Then, I took a magic stone out of my pocket.

"Lei-sama, you carry it with you?"

"Ith'sh a coincidence," I explained since it seemed troublesome, but I saw how Nico was like at dinner time and put it in my pocket a while ago. I hadn't felt it when I saw it at noon, but it was obvious at dinner that he had surplus magic. Nii-sama would normally notice, but he wasn't paying attention because he was socialising with everyone.

"Sho, channew your mwagic here."

"Hmm."

Nico was used to it since he's been doing it recently every time Nii-sama comes to teach. By the time he had finished channeling his magic, his magic had settled down, and he wasn't agitated anymore.

Good.

"Hmm. It feels weird around my stomach." Nico pressed his stomach and tilted his head. Sometimes there are people like that. People who don't realise that they're hungry, some adults are like this, so obviously there will be children like this too. Especially Nico who has never gone hungry.

"Nico, you're hungry."

"Hungry?"

"You didn'th eath enough."

Why do I have to explain his stomach condition to him?

"Nico, thawwed a woth. Your pwathe dishappeared before you couwd eath." (Nico, talked a lot. Your plate disappeared before you could eat)

"Yes, I was going to eat, but my plate was gone before I knew it."

Nico held his stomach.

"It's miserable to starve."

"Dat's wright." I agreed with him. When I was kidnapped, I had a fever and couldn't eat even though I was hungry, so I know how important food is. But I knew what it felt like to starve before that, so I might just be a glutton.

"Lei-sama, were you looking at other people's plates as well? You're a glutton."

There's a difference between knowing that I'm a glutton and others telling me that I am one. I'm going to tell Nii-sama later.

"Natalie, bashweth."

"Yes, Lei-sama."

Natalie could probably tell what was inside by the feel and smell of the basket. She put the basket on the table and gently opened the lid.

The room filled up with a nice aroma.

"This is..."

"Dewicioush food, I goth ith dewivered." I puffed my chest out. There are advantages to being a glutton too.

"I recommend thhe wewi cawe." (I recommend the weli cake)

"Cake? I'll eat the cake after."

"Lei wiww eath thoo."

I wanted to eat it again when I saw it. Hans looked at me as if he wanted to say something, but Natalie stopped him, "Don't say anything."

I really shouldn't eat before I go to bed, but it's not good to sleep while feeling sad over an empty stomach. Nico ate the fish deliciously, and by the time he shared his cake with me, I was feeling sleepy. Then, when I came to, it was morning.

"Lei, I didn't starve thanks to you." Nii-sama smiled next to me and greeted me before saying that straight away. It seemed that the small basket was useful too.

"Giww?"

I hadn't prepared anything for Gill, so I asked about him and Nii-sama answered, "Gill could ask for seconds and keep on eating even when people come up to talk to him." As expected of Gill. It's better for one person to have a lot of nerves. It's definitely his growth period.

Nevertheless, Nico will fall sick if we keep going at this pace. They were planning on taking it slowly on this trip, but isn't that pointless now? I crossed my arms on top of the bed and looked complicated.

"Lei-sama, let's change your clothes."

"Ai. Food!"

After changing, it's time for food. I'll think about it after I eat.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.