Arc 3: The White Country
Chapter 7: Memories of Childhood
A new day.
Like every day, it starts with waking Louise up.
"Louise. It's morning."
Louise: "Mm~"
Louise groggily opens her eyes and picks herself up.
"Good morning."
Louise: "...'morning..."
Louise rubs her eyes. At this rate she might just go back to sleep. Well, I'll just deal with that when it happens. Right now I have things to do with this wooden tub here.
"Dress yourself before I come back, alright."
Louise: "...a'ight..."
...Not good. I'd better get to that well in the courtyard and back real quick.
...
It's been a week since the fiasco with Fouquet. I'm starting to get used to this slightly different daily routine.
Louise changed her mind and decided to chased me out of the room whenever she undressed since then. While it's a good thing that she probably comes to see me as a human being, now I have to be careful when entering the room.
Arriving at the well, I scoop up water, greets the passing staffs, takes the filled tub back up the stairs; same as always.
But now I have to knock before entering.
*knock knock*
"I'm going in."
No answer.
"I'm opening the door now."
One...Two...Three...Open.
...I Knew it. Louise, already dressed in her uniform, is lying on her side with her head toward the end of the bed, her pajamas lying haphazardly beside her.
I'll put the tub back in its place on the table first. Now I have to wake Louise up again.
There's a trick I found three days ago that works really well: pinch her cheek between a thumb and an index finger, just lightly.
"Louise. Get up and wash your face."
Louise: "Hweh...! 'm up~"
For some reason Louise always makes this weird sound when I wake her like this. Maybe there's some kind of story to it.
"Get up and wash your face."
The table where the tub is placed is just two steps away, but I still need to guide her by hands. Supposedly, it's because of low blood pressure or something that Louise is so weak in the morning.
As always, Louise stands still as a statue, waiting for me to wash and wipe her face, only taking the toothbrush I handed to her after that (obviously with toothpaste already added) to brush her own teeth.
Now we can finally head to breakfast in the central tower. Louise finally woke up enough to walk on her own, without needing me to lead her by hand; holding a girl's hand in public space isn't something I do anyway. Besides, if I touch her without permission she would instantly become awake to tell me off. That one time I pulled her to dodge oncoming students she gave me an earful. There's no way I'm doing that to myself again.
It's been more than twenty days since I came here; daily routines are already pretty much in place. It's probably time to seriously search for a way home.
{...}
We've arrived at the second year's table in Alviss Dining Hall. Luka pulls back the chair for me and goes to sit on the floor like usual.
Today, as with the past nine days, what is placed before Luka isn't the miserable soup (now I know how was it miserable), since I asked the principal to share students' food with him.
Osman: "Of course you can. In fact, this isn't something you need to ask for my permission."
"Thank you very much, Old Osman."
Osman: "By the way, what had he been eating all this time?"
"Uh..." How do I describe it... "...A half piece of bread and...a miserable soup, I believe."
Osman: "...Forget asking for my permission; inform the kitchen of this matter right away, before someone gets the wrong idea about our school's financial situation."
So, now Luka has the same food we do. I had the kitchen arrange the food to look different from the students', but the food itself is the same. With this, the chance that some other nobles would raise a complaint about this is significantly reduced. If something still goes wrong anyway I'll just take care of it then.
Well, nothing's happened for ten days straight already, so everything is probably in place for the most part.
Except for the dream this morning. In that boat, on that pond, the person that came to find me, in reality, was Viscount Wardes, who I was acquainted with when I was a child; I had forgotten all about him until this morning.
Now I remember a lot of things that had slipped my mind since then, such as the fact that I might still be engaged to him, even if it was one in name only. I haven't heard anything about the engagement being called off, so it should technically still be in effect.
Back then, I admired, and maybe even pined for him. Now...I don't really know. It's been a long time since we've met. Those feelings look like a childish crush now.
The real problem, though, was the final part, where Viscount was replaced with...that guy.
Of course, it's his fault, for giving me those...confusing and ridiculous thoughts that night at the ball.
I can't believe I actually thought, even for a millisecond, that that guy could be similar to Sir Wardes. Preposterous. Sir Wardes is not just a noble; he is one that has already inherited lands and titles from his father, despite being so young.
Compared to some weird boy accidentally summoned to be a familiar of a subpar mage, his standing and responsibility are on a completely different level. I mistakenly perceived that nonexistent similarity only because what he said to me that day we went to catch Fouquet just happened to coincide with the way Sir Wardes used to console me by chance. That's all.
Comparing Sir Wardes with some kid whose biggest accomplishment was a close victory over someone like Guiche: that's such a great disrespect to him.
So the thought that that guy might be somewhat...reliable, or deserving similar respect like Sir Wardes does in anyway is completely nonsense. Impossible. Unbelievable.
No need to pay it any mind.
"..."
Luka: "...Louise?"
Luka's eyes trail after the soup bowl I picked up, as if asking what have he done this time. He's thinking I'm taking his food away.
"...You will eat on the table starting today."
Luka: "Eh?"
I don't want to explain more than I have. I'll just put his bowl in front of the chair next to me.
Luka gets up, but isn't sitting down.
Luka: "What do you mean by that?"
"I mean exactly what I said."
Luka: "Isn't the table only for nobles...?"
"...And I am a noble. I can al—order my own familiar to sit down wherever I want."
Luka: "Eh... But isn't this seat someone else's?"
?: "You bet! That's my seat!"
A protest comes from beside me.
Geh...It's this guy: Malicorne Wayward. I completely forgot it's normally this guy sitting beside me, since I never talked to him. The guy ridiculed me more than a few times.
Malicorne: "Giving my seat to a familiar; what's you game, Louise?"
"Your name's not carved on the chair, is it. It's free for anyone."
Malicorne: "But I sit here every day. Besides, this table is for nobles, not for commoners! Hey, familiar, go away; that's my seat!"
Malicorne is the one threatening at Luka, but he's the one shaken; Luka isn't even fazed. It probably has to do with the duel with Guiche.
Though he looks frivolous, Guiche is actually as competent as any student. Unless they are someone of Line level or higher like Tabitha and...Tabitha, they would be at least cautious of someone capable of taking Guiche down.
Luka: "Ah, um, go ahead."
Malicorne: "...Hmph, at least you know your place."
Malicorne sits down carefully, unlike someone who has won an argument should act. Luka doesn't look afraid either. What the heck am I seeing? This is pracically the society turned upside-down.
No, more important that that...
"Why did you stand down so easily?"
Luka: "It's his usual seat. I'm okay with sitting anywhere."
That's not wrong, but I'm a little unhappy with that reasoning. Wasn't he much more stubborn when he fought Guiche? For the maid's, or his devil story's sake?
"Haa...I can't tell whether you are patient or not."
Luka: "I'm normal, I guess?"
"...Whatever. Just go get another chair. And don't go back to sitting on the floor. This is an order."
Luka: "Okay...?"
Luka goes off to find a chair.
Malicorne: "...Hey, Louise."
"What?" I'm still irritated because of you, you know?
Malicorne: "What are you thinking, letting a familiar sit at the table? That guy's a commoner, you know?"
"There are no rules against that."
The school have rules, of course. There are rules for students, rules for workers, but none for familiars. Luka is a commoner but not one of the workers. One could say he is a permanent live-in outsider. In the school history, that guy's probably the first one with such weird position. No rules strictly apply to him, so ultimately it depends on traditions and opinions; there won't be a problem unless enough people raise an issue.
Malicorne: "But you've had him sit on the floor all this time. Why not just leave it at that?"
"How I treat my familiar is up to me. It shouldn't have anything to do with you."
Malicorne: "Except you're treating him too well. Hey Louise, don't tell me you...like him?!"
Haaah!?
"Haaah!? Wh—What rubbish is that?! I just said he's a familiar! Fa-mi-li-ar!"
I'm not nervous, or jumpy, or anything. It's just that his words happened to strike a chord with my dream last night, so I reacted, a little.
Malicorne: "Now that I think about it, you and he sleep in the same room. Then, at night you...!"
"Y—You freak! Lecher! Pervert! Stop your dirty thoughts right now!"
Ahhh!~ People are looking this way! And they are whispering something!
This is the worst...! At this rate the whole school will think there's something, unspeakable thing, between me and that guy!?
Luka: "Louise, what's going on?"
Luka you dolt! Why do you have to be back at the worst time!
I have to do something! Before the rumours get out of hand! Something!
"I—It's a hundred years too early for you to sit with me!"
Luka: "What the heck?!"
[...]
We're in the classroom. Luka, as annoying as always, complains the second we're at my seat.
Luka: "What was it this morning? One second you told me to sit at the table, then the next you chased me back to the floor. What was that?"
"How long are you going to complain about that? I said I changed my mind, didn't I?"
Luka: "So fickle..."
"Shut up..."
I'm sitting as I always do, but the looks people in the room give me is a bit strange.
And Montmorency is walking toward me, looking very hesitant.
Montmorency: "Louise..."
"Montmorency ...What's with the secretive."
Montmorency: "I have something I want to ask you..."
Montmorency glances at Luka, then looks back at me.
Montmorency: "Just now I heard the people in our class talked. About you a—and your familiar..."
Ha...!?
Luka: "About Louise and me? What ab—?" "Haah!? Wh—What was it about?!"
I didn't think. I just stood up and raised my voice. I can't let Montmorency speak with Luka about this!
Montmorency: "A—About...the unspeakable thing! Can you not make me say it!"
"And Wh—What was it about? The unspeakable thing that is!"
Montmorency: "It—It's...Look, it's THAT. The unspeakable! Don't make me say it!"
"And j—just why is it unspeakable!"
Montmorency:: "I'm telling you it's unspeakable!"
"I did not! I have no idea at all what you're talking about but I absolutely did not do anything of that sort!"
Luka: "What are you two going on about?"
Montmorency takes a few deep breaths, struggling to regain her bearings.
Montmorency: "W—Well of course, even Louise, whose talent with magic is nonexistent , wouldn't do something so s—shameful."
"Obviously! I—I am a duke's daughter after all!"
Montmorency: "That's right. Even if you're...like that...as a mage, you're decent as far as being a proper lady goes. ...Yeah. Your magic might be pitiful, but you yourself wouldn't stoop so low as to do such v—vulgar things..."
"How many times are you going to repeat that!?"
Luka: "You two seem to be having fun..."
*screech*
Ah...! That's Mr. Giteau! That black hair and the scowl always on his face; just a glimpse of it sends all the students scurying back to their seat.
Mr. Giteau. Out of all the teachers, I just can't get along with him: arrogant disposition, demeaning words towards others out of disdain and spite. I can't count how many times I've been mocked over my inability with magic during the first year; the insults even extended toward my family many times. In the end he just ignored my existence altogether, except when there's a perfect chance to slight me over the same thing again.
Just think back to two weeks ago; when Fouquet stole the treasure, he was the first one to blame Mrs. Chevreuse. That's the kind of things he does.
Mother told me these kind of people are not to be associated with. Believing only what is convenient to them to be 'right' and looking down on people that are different; always ready to overcriticise other's mistakes, to make themselves look good. Nobles have to be able to distinguish between pride and arrogance, or they will end up like that.
Giteau: "All right. We will now begin the lessons. As everyone here know, my second name is The Gale. Giteau The Gale."
The entire class is silent. No one dares to make a sound. Mr. Giteau's eyes sweep around the class, looking satisfied.
Giteau: "What is the most powerful Element, Ms. Zerbst?"
Kirche: "It's the Void, isn't it?"
Giteau: "I am not talking about myths. I expect a realistic answer, not fantastical ones."
It's starting. The demeaning words, insulting others' intelligence.
Kirche: "Fire of course, Mr. Giteau."
And that Zerbst shoots back in a heartbeat. Well, that's what you get when two arrogants people meets.
Giteau: "Hoh. And why would you think so?"
Kirche: "Burning everything to a crisp, that's Fire and Passion, isn't it?"
Giteau: "It is a shame, but that is untrue."
Mr. Giteau pulled out a wand from his waist.
Giteau: "For an experiment, try throwing the Fire you are so proud off at me."
He says dangerous thing so easily. Even Zerbst looks a bit surprised.
Giteau: "What is the matter? Is Fire not your strong suit?" Mr. Giteau says with a raised chin. What an obvious provocation.
Kirche: "You do realise this won't end with just a mild burn?" Zerbst is speaking with a cold tone. She's really mad.
Giteau: "No need to worry; you can put all your power in the spell. Or rather, I would like you to. If that flaming hair of Zerbst Family isn't just for show."
The thin smile that have always accompanied Zerbst vanished. She takes out her wand from her cleavage (Tch!), and her long hair starts to float and sway, like a crackling flame.
The air around her is completely different from when she argued with me.
Her right hand flicks her wand forward, and a small ball of fire appears in the air. As she continues her incantation, the fire gradually swells, until its diameter is no less than a mail. Nearby students, including myself, duck under the desks.
That fire ball is as big as the one she used against Fouquet's golem was! If that thing hits a human they're as good as dead! What's that girl thinking!?
Luka: "Louise, shouldn't we stop them...?"
Luka the idiot is still sitting up!
"What are you doing! hurry up and take cover!"
This guy! I'm pulling him down yet he's still trying to peek over the table!
Zerbst twists her hand inward, and the ball shoots forward.
Mr. Giteau pulls out his wand, and waves.
*whoom!*
Students: "Wahhh!" "Gyaaaa!"
Luka: "Wa—!?"
"Kyaaa!" The wind—This is too strong to be used indoor!
*thud!*
Kirche: "Argh!"
...
That was...terrifying.
The gust of wind blew out that big fireball just a mail away from its starting point, and almost blow my desk away; and we're at the back of the room. The desks at the front are clearly not in their usual position. Even Luka, who was only half a head above the desk, was knocked down. Zerbst herself was thrown across the room and into the stone wall. That had to hurt.
Giteau: "I will tell you all why Wind is the most powerful Element."
Mr. Giteau puts his wand away and speaks in a calm voice, as if to say what he did just now was no more than a child's play. And there it is, once everyone got out from under the table, they all get a show of his arrogantly nonchalant expression.
Giteau: "It is all very elementary. Wind blows away the base which everyting stands on. Whether it is Fire, Water, or Earth, nothing can retain its form when faced with a sweeping gust. It is unfortunate that an experiment cannot be done, but even Void would most likely be no different."
Even Void, the power of Founder Brimir himself, is not safe from his insolence. Someone who believes themselves to be above their own predecessors is nothing more than an egomaniac.
Zerbst just stands up, and spreads her arms with a scowl, before going back to her seat. Mr. Giteau shows no sign that he even noticed her movement.
Mr. Giteau aside, getting to see that Zerbst being put down a peg is a little satisfying.
Well, I'm back at my usual position on my chair, and the lesson can continue as normal. Though Luka is furrowing his brow, like he is unsatisfied with something.
Luka: "...Wind...that..."
"What are you mumbling?"
Luka: "Huh...? Ah, no, nothing..."
Giteau: "Ms. Valliere, if you are already proficient enough to not need my lecture, can you come out here and demonstrate your knowledge?"
Hngh...!
"I...I am sorry, Mr. Giteau..."
Giteau: "Then be quiet and focus on the lessons. A problematic student such as you need to put in more effort than others. You don't need to blow out Ms. Zerbst's Fire like just now; just blowing a few leaves without an explosion would be good enough from you."
"..."
Standing, ability; nothing I have is good enough to rebut his words. I have long since been used to it. Not saying anything no matter how bitter I feel; pushing the feeling down my throat even if I have to clench my hand until they hurt.
Luka: "...Sorry..."
"...Stop talking to me..."
It is as if a storm is blowing in my head. Everything that entered my ears got scattered away before they reach my brain; be it Mr. Giteau's lesson or something else.
...Huh? That sound, did someone open the door? Strange, the class is still going on, so why... why...is Mr...Colbert?
That's Mr. Colbert, isn't it? Yes...yes that's Mr. Colbert, glasses and all.
Then what's with the outfit? And the wig? The...wig?
Giteau: "Mister, we are in the middle of the class."
Mr. Giteau says sharply as he frowns. I'm surprised he can even keep a straight face at all when Mr. Colbert is wearing such a...I don't even know what to call that fancy, lacey, ...messily adorned robe of his. And that wig. That big, golden wig, with rolled tips that looks like it was taken from a circus, that's covering his usually bald head.
Colbert: "Ahem. All the classes today are cancelled!"
Mr. Colbert stands straight up and spreads his arms out, as if trying to look serious as he looks up toward us.
Colbert: "There is an important announcement..."
That wig looks kind of loose actu—Ah.
*flop*
...
After the silence come giggles, from all the students, including me. I can't believe I am giggling openly in Mr. Giteau's class. This might as well count as a miracle.
Mr. Giteau himself looks unamused. Wow. That's amazing in a way.
Oh, Tabitha moves. That's rare. She's expressionless unlike the rest of us, which comes as no surprise. Though it's clear she did pay some attention to what was happening, since she's pointing at Mr. Colbert's head, which is just in front of her.
Tabitha: "Zero-friction surface."
Bwah—!
Laughters fill the room.
Kirche: "Kuk...! Really, you...when you do open your mouth, you sure know what to say!"
I have to agree with Zerbst on that one, since that comment made even a reserved lady like me laughing out loud.
The only people not holding their stomach or the tables are Mr. Giteau and Mr. Colbert himself obviously.
Oh, and Luka too; he just stares dumbly at the scene. Maybe he couldn't follow what was happening? Well, that kills my mood. I don't feel like laughing anymore.
Colbert: "Silence! I said silence you whippersnappers! What an unseemly display! Nobles do not laugh with their mouths wide opened! When they find something funny, they keep their head down and chuckle discreetly! If you are all like this, the royal court will surely question our education!"
Well, no one can keep laughing when they're told that. Now I feel better for stopping before others did.
Colbert: "Aaaahem!" Doesn't his throat hurt? "Everyone. Today is a good day for our Tristain's Magic Academy. It is a blessed day not unlike the Founder Brimir's Advent Festival."
Mr. Colbert turn to the side and grip his own wrist behind his back; probably to look composed.
Colbert: "It looks to be that, the memento of the previous king, the pride and joy of Tristain, Her Highness Princess Henrietta, on her way back from the visit to Germania, would stop by to rest at our school."
...
Students: "Seriously!?" "The princess? I've never seen her. I heard she's really beautiful." "I have once, when I was a kid. I don't know how she looks now though!"
...
Princess...She is coming here?
Colbert: "We have to receive the princess to the best of our abilities. Even if it is on such a short notice, no slacks can be allowed. And thus, today's classes are all canceled. All students, please make sure your uniforms are proper, then you are to assemble at the main gate."
[...]
[...][...]
I am here.
I am really here, am I not; in a line along with other students. I haven't even sorted out my feelings yet.
How many years has it been? How much have Princess changed by now? Can she still remember me? If she does, what would she think of me now? There are so many questions and doubts. I—if she looks my way, what kind of face should I make...?
Luka: "Louise, what's wrong? You have been acting odd since a moment ago."
The buzz of the familiar's voice doesn't calm me one bit.
Luka: "Are you still hang up on what that teacher said? Don't overthink it. That kind of remarks should just be forgotten."
Now that he mentions it, something like that did happen in the class, didn't it? Who cares about that. Something a hundred, no, thousands times more important that that is happening.
...
Time passed by slowly, which is probably torturous when we have to stand very still. But I don't feel it at all, because my anxiety is ten times worse. There are expectations, joy, and apprehension all jumbled up inside me.
Finally. Finally the top of a carriage appears on the horizon of the plain seen through the front gate, followed by another one. Flanking them are the Royal Guards on top of their mystical beast mounts.
Student (M) A: "Hey look! They're here!"
Teacher (M) A: "Over there! No leaning out!"
The head of the cavalcade passes through the gate. The royal guards, then the princess' carriage, pulled by the holy beast unicorns, passes by us. The window of the carriage is covered by a small laced curtain, keeping the inside from our sight.
Princess is there, right at this moment.
The carriage comes to a halt in front of the central tower, where the principal is waiting. Royal servants unfurl a red carpet and open the door.
Knight: "Her Royal Highness The Princess of The Kingdom of Tristain, Princess Henrietta has arrived!"
As soon as the announcement finished, a figure steps down from the carriage.
...
Huh?
Oh, right, that's Cardinal Mazarini. So he came out before the princess. That startled me. I can't believe I thought of something so ridiculous. There's no way Princess could have aged so much in this span of a time.
Some of our students snorted. That probably has something to do with the rumour that the cardinal is aiming for the throne. I don't know how true it is, but if it's true Princess must be worried. I wish she would... ...No, what am I thinking. Why would she depend on someone like me, a noble that cannot even use the one thing that is the symbol of our status? I would just make things worse, or waste her time.
Students and Teachers: "Long live the princess!" "Long live Princess Henrietta!" "Long Live Tristain!"
! What was I doing? Princess is here. I have to give her my best cheer. That's the least I can do.
Louise: "Long Live Princess Henrietta!"
Ah, Princess have grown so beautiful. Had her radiance be sunlight, I would have gone blind by now. It has been so long since the last time I saw her face. Princess looks to be in good health; she still has that same beautiful smile. Such a joyous sight.
However, next to her is no longer the lone little girl, but an entire squad of loyal and capable mage guards, ready to serve and protect her.
For example, that stern young man wearing a wide brimmed hat riding a gryphon in front of others...
...
...Wait.
That—I—Isn't that...! O—Oh, that's right. Father said he...
...If not for the dream last night I might've overlooked him entirely.
My cheeks feel warm; my chest is tingling. Even though I've forgotten about it all this time.
[...]
[...][...]
Luka: "...se..."
...
Luka: "...Louise..."
...
Luka: "Louise!"
"Ha!? ...What's wrong with you! What did you shake me for!?" You're just a familiar. How dare you touch my shoulders without permission.
Luka: "Because you just stared at the wall since we got back. What's the matter?"
"Wh—Whatever it is, is my business! A master has a lot of things to worry about that a familiar doesn't know, you know?!"
Luka: "That wording was kind of weird...Is it about the man riding on that eagle-headed lion-beast?"
Ugh...So he noticed.
Luka: "Someone you know?"
"W—well, s—something like that..."
It's the dream's fault! Now I can't keep myself from thinking about that; that childhood promise.
It's completely unexpected; to see him again like this.
But that's a long time ago. Even I have forgotten about it. Surely he has too...
*knock* *knock*
Oh, the door...
Luka: "Who's that? It's already late."
I should just tell Luka to open the door; it's his job after all... But for some reason, I don't feel like talking to him. I'll just do it myself.
*kachak*
It's...a girl, probably, completely covered in black cloak.
How could someone dressing so suspiciously be allowed into the dorm?
"Ah...! Hey! You can't just come barging in like that!"
She even closes the door on her own, as if she owns the room.
"Who are you...?"
The girl raise a finger to her lips, then takes out a wand and waves it: a mage, then. The room is lit up by particles of light. This spell is...
"Detect Magic?"
?: "We cannot be sure where secret pairs of eyes and ears might be lurking in."
! Th—This voice...! It can't be...!
"Princess!"
Henrietta: "It has been a long time. Louise Françoise."
It really is Princess! If she didn't lower her hood I wouldn't have believed it!
How...! Why is she...?! Kneel! I have to kneel!
Henrietta: "Oh, Louise, Louise. I miss you so much!"
Agh...! Princess is hugging me!?
"Princess, you can't! You shouldn't have come to a lowly place such as this..." Or lower yourself to hug me like this.
Henrietta: " Louise Françoise! Do not be so formal! You and I are friends, are we not!"
Friends. It was such a long time ago. Princess still remembers it.
I do not deserve such kind words.
"Princess you must not. I am of a sullied name; it was why our meetings had stopped in the past. You should not involve yourself with me. If others are to know about this..."
Henrietta: "Do not say that! Cardinal and mother are not here; neither are the nobles that give me fake smiles in exchange for favours! At the palace, I have no friends I could speak my mind to. If even my childhood friend would act so distant, my heart would not be able to take it!"
"Princess..." To think you have suffered so...
Henrietta: "When we were little, were we not used to chase butterflies in the garden until we were both covered in mud!"
"...Only to get scolded by La Porte, the chamberlain, for getting our clothes dirtied."
Henrietta: "Yes! Yes we did, Louise! And that time we fought over pastries until we ended up grappling each other! Ah, I lost to you all the time; I remember crying a lot whenever you grabbed my hair."
"Not at all. Princess had also grasped victories not once or twice."
My lips curl, and the words trickle out, all on their own; with the language taught to me and the memories engraved in my heart.
Henrietta: "Now I remember it! That time, the battle we called Siege of Amiens!"
"You mean the time we fought over a dress in your bedchamber."
Henrietta: "Yes, that time! We were playing make-believe royal court and fought over the princess role! And one of my punch struck your stomach at the right angle!"
"I passed out right in front of Princess."
It has been such a long time ago. But the more we talk about it, the more it comes back, along with the feelings at the time: the time full of happiness.
Luka: "Uwah..."
Luka...! I completely forgot he was here too.
"Wh—What? What was that for?!"
Luka: "Nothing really. Just that, you have always been the violent sort, haven't you."
"Wh—What did you say!?"
Luka: "See, right after I said it."
My fist clenched on its own...! Ahh...! It's too late now! I just hit this guy in front of Princess...!
Henrietta: "Louise Françoise, are you not going to introduce him to me?"
"Eh? Ah! Princess, this is my familiar. Hey, introduce yourself."
Luka kneel on one of his knees and lower his head.
Luka: "I am Louise's familiar, Luka. It is an honour to meet you."
Henrietta: "My, this is the first time I have met such a well-mannered familiar."
...It's actually as Princess said. This guy's manner is pretty decent. Where had he learnt it from?
Henrietta: "My name is Henrietta de Tristain, the princess of the Kingdom of Tristain. The honour is mine as well, Sir Familiar." Princess laughs lightly.
...Could it be...
"Princess, that truly is my familiar."
Henrietta: "...Eh? It was not a joke?"
"It is the truth."
Princess looks surprised, then slowly smiles, in the way I am familiar with.
Henrietta: "...Louise Françoise, you have changed in some way, but you're still the same person, always surprising me with something no others could accomplish."
"This one did not become my familiar because I wished so."
Luka: "Look, I don't mind if you're going to badmouth me, but can I raise my head now?" Luka is still bowing as he asks.
Henrietta: "Oh, my apologies, mister familiar. Please raise your head; and do relax. There is no need to be so formal."
Luka: "Thank you."
Luka is back on his pile of straw. Princess looks at my bed, then at me.
Henrietta: "Louise, can I sit here?"
"Ah...! You must be exhausted from your travel. My apologies for not thinking of it sooner. If Princess is satisfied with such humble accomodations, then please sit wherever you please."
Princess sits on my bed, then pat her hand on the spot beside her knees.
*gasp* D—Don't tell me...
Henrietta: "What are you waiting for, Louise Françoise?"
"M—My—My deepest apologies! Luka! What the heck have you been doing when you cleaned my room! Now the dust is getting on the princess's clothes! Clean the sheet again, now!"
Luka: "Rude. There's no way I'd slack off with cleaning."
Ugh...The words are hard to deny. This guy has always been thorough with cleaning. He cleaned the room much better than I did; even though they were trivial things, like dust that couldn't even be seen with naked eyes, they somehow made a lot of difference.
Henrietta: "Um, Louise Françoise? That is not what I meant. I meant for you to sit beside me."
"Eh!? I—I cannot possibly do that!"
Henrietta: "Please do not be so uptight. Like I said, you do not have to be so formal with me."
"Th—Then, may I..."
I—I have to be careful not to stir up dust, in case that idiot Luka exaggerated his cleaning ability.
I used to sit beside Princess like this regularly when I was a kid; I didn't think anything of it back then, but it feels completely diiferent now. Both Princess and I have matured. Princess has become such gorgeous and refined noble lady, and I have also grown up. Our height is very close together, the only part that's considerably different is...
...Founder Brimir, please forgive this Louise Françoise for being envious of your descendant because of something so...trivial.
Henrietta: "Louise Françoise?"
"Y—Yes, Your Highness?!"
Henrietta: "I asked if you were the one who taught him etiquette?"
"I—I'm afraid it is not so. It is something the familiar possessed beforehand. Er...by his words, he claimed to have been acquainted with some members of nobility, and had learnt his manners from such connections."
Henrietta: "He is acquainted with nobles? Is it true, mister familiar? Are they nobles in Tristain?"
...Oh no!
Luka! Look at my eyes! Make up some cover story now! And don't you dare mess this up! Those nonsenses about Holy Land definitely must not reach Princess's ears! I don't want to be seen as weirdo by Princess more than I already am. If you are my familiar you must understand me!
Luka: "Well, no. I'm...from a country very far from here."
"I—It is a tiny, underdeveloped land at the edge of Halkeginia."
Henrietta: "Oh, is that so?"
I'm saved!
Henrietta: "But, to be honest, I am relieved."
"Relieved, Your Highness?"
Henrietta: "There is a man in your room, in the middle of the night. I had thought you had found yourself a lover. If that is so, I would be intruding upon your private time."
"L—L—Lover!? Th—Th—That's impossible! Please don't tease me so! That guy's just a familiar! Just a familiar!"
Luka: "That's right. I don't have that kind of feelings toward Louise at all; not even the slightest bit."
"Hey you. Are you trying to pick a fight with me?"
Luka: "Why?!"
"The way you said it irritated me, that's why!"
Henrietta: "...Fufu."
A laugh. Princess is laughing the noble's laugh Mr. Colbert described in the morning.
Henrietta: "You two are just like Louise Françoise and I when we were children. You must be quite close indeed."
"Y—Yes we are. A little. Quite. Enough for a master and her familiar."
Phew...I'm saved.
"But, I'm really moved that Princess still remembers such times... I had thought you would have forgotten about little me."
Princess sighs, but not in relief like she did a moment ago.
Henrietta: "How could I. Those time were full of happiness, no troubles to burden my mind with. ...Louise Françoise, I am envious of your freedom."
"Why would you say that? Princess, you are the direct heir to the throne, are you not?"
Henrietta: "A princess born in a kingdom is no different from a bird raised in a gilded cage, living at its master's whims..."
Master, Princess said. But above Princess, there is only Queen Marianne; unless she meant the person rumoured to hold true political power: Cardinal Mazarini.
Princess gazes at the twin moons outside the window, and holds my hands.
Henrietta: "I am getting married."
"...My congratulations to you, Your Highness."
Princess's smile as she said those words are beautiful, gentle, and wistful; so much that I can't find appropriate words to reply with.
Princess is getting married. I haven't heard anything about her relationship with a man at all, which means it's something recently decided.
Princess sighs again. It might be about the marriage, or other things. But if there's nothing wrong she wouldn't suddenly be pressured into marriage, so there must be something else.
But that doesn't have anything to do with me, who is an outsider. It's a matter of the Royal Court; not something I should get involved with.
...How shameful. And I still call myself a noble?
Nobles are supposed to be shields and wands to the royal family and the kingdom. More than that, Princess sees me as her companion; and haven't I sworn, back when I was a kid, that no matter what happens I will serve Princess until this life is no more? Shirking obligations out of fear of others' opinion: that would be the true disgrace as a noble.
"Princess, what troubles you so?"
Henrietta: "Nothing. I am sorry to make you worried... How shameful of me. It is not something you have to trouble yourself with...How could I..." Princess is talking more to herself.
"Please speak to me. It must be something serious indeed, for Princess who used to be so bright and cheerful to look so troubled."
Princess looks hesitant. Then she shakes her head.
Henrietta: "...No, I cannot. Please forget about this, Louise."
"That I cannot do! Were we not used to be able to speak about everything!? Princess, you yourself said I am your friend. Can you not tell this friend of your worries!?"
Princess looks surprised, but this is my true feelings. That's why I could look straight at Princess's eyes and said it without reserve.
Princess smiles joyously.
Henrietta: "You called me a friend. I am so happy, Louise Françoise. ...I understand. I will tell you. However, you must not say a word about this to anyone."
It's definitely something serious. I can only nod.
Luka: "Uh, sorry for interrupting again, but should I go outside?"
...! Forgot about him again. He sure knows when to keep quiet as a familiar.
"O—Of course you should. This is a matter of the royal court..."
...But Princess shakes her head.
Henrietta: "That is not necessary. For mages, familiars are like parts of their body. There is no need for mister familiar to go out."
Luka: "Understood."
"Yes, Your Highness."
Luka sits back down, expression serious. This is the first time I've seen him like this. Usually he does nothing but nags and wanders off somewhere. Seeing him like this, he looks kinda matured.
No, no, what am I thinking, when Princess is trusting me with an importat secret.
Henrietta: "Recently, the royal council had reached a decision regarding a matter." Princess says sadly.
Henrietta: "I am to be tied to the Emperor of Germania in a bond of matrimony..."
"Germania, Your Highness! The country of barbarians!?"
Henrietta: "Yes. But it cannot be helped; it is something that has to be done, in order to create an ally for our kingdom."
I can't believe it! Just being forced to marry is bad enough, but to the head of the barbarians calling himself an emperor! Those barbaric, uncultuted bunch is nowhere near suitable for Princess! They are as far apart as a flower on high cliff and a lizard crawling in a ditch! Like a reptile that, just because there's a bit of flame on its tail, is made to be a big deal. In the end, It's just a lizard!
Henrietta: "Louise, do you know how the political world of Halkeginia is faring right now?"
"How...it is faring...?"
[...]
...I didn't know at all. I didn't think what I heard in passing would be so serious; but it has already developed to such extent.
Now that Princess had told me about it herself, I am forced to confront with the reality.
To face an incoming threat of the rebels which are about to take over Albion, and would soon turn their sight toward Tristain, there's a need to borrow the crude wand of Germania. For the Kingdom, for the countrymen, and for people like me. Even though it should be the nobles' duty to protect the royal family, they would now hide behind Princess's sacrifice.
"I see..." That's all I can say. I still can't really absorb this sudden development.
Henrietta: "Do not trouble yourself with it, Louise. I gave up hope to marry for love long time ago."
"Princess..."
Henrietta: "Those impudent Albionian nobles would no doubt see the alliance between Tristain and Germania be an obstacle. They had been searching for a way, something to stop my engagement..."
Princess's face is frought with worry.
"Then, this something is..."
Princess nods, as I feared.
Henrietta: "...Founder Brimir, please save this unfortunate princess...!"
"Princess!"
Princess. That strong and confident Princess is covering her face and slumping down. Princess from long ago would never allow herself to be like this. Just how much burden is weighing on the shoulders of this lone girl. Compared to that, my only woe is my inability to use magic; such a selfish worry.
I must help Princess, or else I would have no right to call myself a noble; magic or not.
"Please tell me, Your Highness! What is it that could destroy this engagement?!"
Henrietta: "...It is a letter I once wrote."
"A letter?"
Henrietta: "Yes. If the Albion nobles are to get their hands on it, they would immediately send it to the emperor..."
"What sort of letter is it?"
Henrietta: "...That I cannot say. But if the Emperor of Germania is to read the letter...he would never forgive me. The engagement would be called off, cutting the ties between Tristain and Germania. Tristain would have to face the might of Albion's army alone."
...Ugh...If that happens we would have no chance of winning.
Tristain has the weakest military force in Halkeginia. Compared to the likes of Germania and Gallia, our land is tiny, population small, armaments inferior. Tristain's mage knights, though uncomparable in quality, to pitch them against Albion's fleet, said to be much more powerful than any other in Halkeginia, would be like trying to douse a flaming house with a bucket of water.
With our kingdom fallen, every stretch of land, every blade of grass will belong to the Albion's rebels. Not just Princess and the nobles of the court; I, Mother, Father, Sister Eléonore, Sister Chii; everyone would be no different from slaves to Albion. Whatever Albion desires, we have to provide. Whatever they want to do to us, we can't stop them.
That can never be allowed to happen. No matter what.
"Where is the letter, Your Highness?!"
Henrietta: "It is not with me...It is on Albion."
...Eh...?
"Then, it is already in the enemy's hand...?"
Henrietta: "No...The letter is being kept by the Crown Prince Wales of Albion Royal Family, who is fighting the rebels at the moment."
That's a relief...is it...?
"Prince of Wales? You mean, that brave prince?"
{...}
...
There it is. One more name I don't recognize. The name of Kirche's country: that I've heard a few times, but that other country is completely foreign. And now there's this prince something. Even the princess in front of me is someone I've just met. I can't follow the conversation anymore.
The princess and Louise being pretty close since they were kids, and Louise is still very much loyal to the princess, and the princess also trusts Louise enough to tell her something sensitive; that much I can tell. Well, most kings and queens I know rarely lose their cool on anything.
And now Louise is trying to accept some kind of dangerous mission; going into a country where a rebellion is probably happening.
If this is a few years ago I'll probably think 'This kind of dangerious mission is just the job for a hero!' or something like that. Actually, I still think so, but I'd better not. Problems in politics can't be solved by swinging a sword around; Tamamo and Alice grilled that into my head enough that I'm never going to forget about it my entire life.
And there's the Plansect village incident.
Now all the excitement left me. If I rush in without thinking, that's going to happen again. Even though the one actually accepted the mission was Louise, I still don't want any part in it, big or small.
After all, I'm not knowledgeable about politics. Who lied and who didn't, how much what someone said was true; just trying to figure that out gives me headaches.
Well, if there really is no choice, I guess I can only try and do things my way, and hope the result won't be disastrous.
{...}
Henrietta: "The Albion nobles have cornered the loyalists. The defeat is nigh."
"We will set out tomorrow morning."
This ties into the stability of our country. It can't wait. Princess puts her trust in me with this mission; no matter how unconfident I am, I have to carry it out, successfully.
Princess looks relieved, if only just a little. That's enough for me. Even someone who can't use a lick of magic like me can be of use to Princess.
Princess turns to speak with familiar...I forgot him again. This is the third time already. Really, this guy was being too quiet.
Henrietta: "Mister familiar."
Luka: "...Yes."
Henrietta: "My very important and precious friend, I leave her in your care. Please take care of her."
Princess...She called me—Wait, Princess...!? What are you...!?
"Princess!? You must not! Offering your hand to a lowly familiar! It's unthinkable!"
Henrietta: "It is fine. He is to undertake a task that I asked of him. For his loyalty, he should be rewarded."
Such generosity! Princess, this Louise Françoise is deeply moved...!
...Meanwhile, this idiotic familiar is making a dumb face, completely oblivious to Princess's kindness.
"...What are you waiting for."
Luka: "Eh? Uh, what am I supposed to do?"
"You really ignorant, aren't you...To put it crudely, Princess offering her hand to you means you are allowed a kiss."
Kuh...I can't believe I am explaining this to my own familiar. If I could just leave him like this, not knowing and not doing anything, until Princess takes back her offer...But, this is what Princess wants.
Luka: "Eh... So, I don't really have to do it?"
Henrietta: "Oh my?"
"Wha—!? Wh—Wh—What did you just say?! Y—You're just a lowly familiar! How dare you reject Princess's hand!?"
Luka: "You said I am allowed to do it, which means I don't exactly have to do it, do I?"
"Don't you know how lucky you are!? This is once-in-a-life-time chance, no, even if you die and come back as a...sea cucumber! Three times over! You still won't get a chance like this again!"
Henrietta: "Louise Françoise? I do not offer my hand to sea cucumbers."
This guy is still frowning.
Luka: "That might be true, but I don't have that kind of relationship with the princess. Even if it's just her hand, I can't kiss or do anything else of that nature."
"Haah!? Not that kind of relationship!? What kind of relationship!? Obviously! What the heck are you fantasising about!? How about I crack open your brain and wash off all the filth in it!"
Luka: "What's wrong? There's no need to be so so furious, is there?"
Henrietta: "He is right, Louise Françoise."
Ah...Princess pulled back her hand. What a relief...!
"Princess. B—But to be offered your hand is a great privilege, yet this familiar...!"
Henrietta: "It is as I said: I simply wanted to reward him. A reward is not something forced upon someone. If he does not want it, we have to respect his wish."
"Y—Yes, it truly is as you say, Princess."
Henrietta: "Moreover, those words show that he is a gentleman who does not take advantage of women. I can be at ease knowing you are in his care."
"Princess...you are correct..."
What Princess said is true.
...That's not all. I don't really know how much skinship is normal between a man and a woman anyway; but there are Guiche who would pretty much take any chance to hold a girl's hand, and Zerbst who practically has no concept of proper distance. Holding hand while dancing is fine, and I've seen some students who have no trouble with little touches here and there by members of opposite sex.
Meanwhile, ever since the day he saved me from Fouquet's golem by...dragging me along, Luka never even so much as touch my clothes. He woke me up and washed my face in the morning, and that's it. I guess maybe there's no real reason, or opportunity to do so...but, we're in my room, in touching distance, half the day every day, yet there was absolutely no contact at all.
What does that mean? Does it even mean anything? And why do I have to care about it?
Henrietta: "Then, does mister familiar have other wishes I might be able to grant? I insist."
Luka has this serious expression on as he stares at Princes...a bit too intently.
Luka: "Then, I have something I'd like to ask."
Henrietta: "What do you want to know? I will answer to the best of my ability."
Asking Princess a question...! I really don't understand just what this guy's thinking.
Luka: "You said a country called Albion is going invade this country. Is that really true?"
Henrietta: "That is what the royal court has predicted."
Luka: "Why is that?"
"Hey you, you're being to nosy for a mere familiar!"
Henrietta: "It is all right, Louise. He is now a citizen of Tristain. It is very normal that he would want be curious to the fate of our country."
Ah, Princess is too kind. She had forgiven the insolence of this dog many times.
Henrietta: "...The Albion nobles who started the rebellion against the royal family and is currently about to achieve victory had declared their intention to unite Halkeginia as one. It is highly probable that after taking over Albion, their next target would be Tristain, since we are weak in terms of military strength."
Luka: "About the letter the prince have with him, if it's that dangerous, wouldn't the prince have got rid of it already?"
Henrietta: "Th—That...If that is so...it would be relief..."
Talking about the crown prince of Albion Royal Family, Prince Wales was rumoured to be brave and just. He is also a cousin of Princess on their fathers' side. The relationship between Tristain Royal Family and Albion's one has also been on the amicable side all this time. If the prince knew he had an object that was a threat to the kingdom of his cousin, he should have destroyed it already.
But Princess looks somber, as if sad at the prospect of the letter being destroyed.
Henrietta: "...It is because, the letter is only a threat to the engagement of me and the emperor of Germania, and has no other significance. As of now, aside from the Royal Court, only the two of you know about this matter. Prince Wales himself would be clueless."
The letter that is only a threat to an engagement. What could be its content... Ah, no, stop thinking at once, my head. That was too much of a disrespect to both Princess and the prince.
Henrietta: "Do you...have any other questions?"
Luka: "Only one. Princess should have many knights in your service. Why are you giving this mission to Louise?"
This familiar sure likes to ask the kind of questions that slight Her Highness's authority, doesn't it! ...But, even if I hate it, I have to admit his reasoning.
"...That is true, Princess...Princess has magic knights that are said to be elites amongst elites in your service. If you send any of them, it would be so much easier than an ordinary girl such as I...I—I do not mean that I do not want to go! Simply that..."
Henrietta: "Your loyalty, Louise Françoise, I understand better than anyone...To tell you the truth I myself do not want to send Louise on such a dangerous mission...But the content of the letter..."
Princess's expression is most difficult as she answers the familiar that's too obtuse to know when not to ask something.
Henrietta: "Please understand. The content in that letter, I do not want—no, I do not trust anyone to see it, even the royal guards that have sworn loyalty to to the royal family. The only ones I can trust to not read, or to be of no threat even if they do, in this whole Halkeginia, are my mother, Mazarini, and Louise Françoise, and no others..."
"Princess..."
Princess trusts me as much as the queen and the royal advisor. For nobles, there is no higher honour.
"May Princess be at ease. This Louise Françoise will see this mission through; no matter what comes."
Henrietta: "Louise Françoise...! Thank you! You really are my friend!"
Princess hugs my again. The determination to serve her only grows within me.
I am Louise the Zero, a mage with no magic: a defective noble. Even so, I will carry out my duty as one; serving the kingdom, the royal family, and more importantly, Princess that sees me as her friend. I will not remain like this all my life. I will not.
Henrietta: "Ah, Louise, the journey ahead will be frought with danger. If possible I would—! Oh, I know!"
Princess releases me, her expression considerably brightens.
Henrietta: "As long as Louise Françoise is the one holding the letter, there would be no concern. Then, I will have a loyal and capable magic knight accompany you on this mission, to protect you. This way the danger to your safety should be much lower."
"You would be so kind? Princess puts this much importance in my safety, I am deeply moved!"
Henrietta: "Of course I am concern of you! You are my only friend; the only one I can trust with anything!"
I can't let Princess know, but inside I'm very relieved. If we have to fight, at least one of us will be able to use magic.
"Then, whom would Princess send along with us?"
Henrietta: "About that, I will—"
*creak~*
That sound. That's from the door. Someone is entering the room, even though Princess already locked the door.
The door opens, and the face behind it is...
Guiche: "I have heard it, the voice of a damsel in distress..."
Blond hair, a rose, a very self-satisfying voice...Geh.
Guiche: "The flower of Halkeginia, Princess Henrietta is in distress. At such a sight, how can I...I..."
The idiot Guiche suddenly stops the stupid posing. Now that I look closely, the hand holding the rose is shaking violently.
Guiche: "...Your Highness, Princess Henrietta! Please let this Guiche de Gramont contribute to this mission, I beg you!"
Now he's prostrating. I guess he isn't calm enough in front of Princess to show off like he usually does.
But I don't care about that.
"Guiche, you...You eavesdropped on us didn't you!? Princess! We should send this rascal to the gallows!"
Guiche: "W—Wait! I—I—I just saw someone in black cloak and thought it might be the princess so I followed. A—And the princess entered your room, a—and I was curious so..."
"No excuses! Someone like you who unabashedly put his ear on the door of a girl's room..."
The depraved scoundrel Guiche is still prostrating. How dare you show that filthy back to Princess! My foot is more than good enough for you!
"This is what you deserve! Being a noble just isn't satisfying for you, huh!? You want to be a mole! And Unlock spell is forbidden within the premise! Do you even know the rules!? Expel! You should be expelled!"
Guiche: "Oof! Wait Louise—Agh! I'm a noble you know. Oogh! I—If you want to step on someone do it to your familiar!"
"Of course I'm gonna punish it later! It will learn to stop being so nosy all the time!"
Luka: "Wait, why am I in the fault?"
Because I said so!
Henrietta: "Louise, please, that is more than necessary!"
"...If Princess says so..."
For this thing, just being stepped on isn't enough. If Princess had not stopped me... Ha...Ha...That was a bit too much for my stamina.
Henrietta: "Sir...You said your name is Gramont. By that you mean the Field Marshal Gramont?"
Guiche: "I am his son, Your Highness."
Guiche massages his back, before standing up and bows elegantly. It's a bit infuriating to admit, but his showy personality actually helps in occasions like these.
Guiche: "If Your Highness would allow me to be a part of this mission of utmost importance, it would be the greatest honour in my life."
Henrietta: "I am grateful. Your father is a very great man, and you seem to have inherit his bravery. May I ask you to help this unfortunate princess, Sir Guiche?"
Princess, you do not need to speak so gently with this frivolous fop.
Guiche: "Th—The princess said my name! The princess, the beautiful flower of Tristain gave me such a rosy smile...!"
And he passed out. Just like that. Can we really rely on this guy? Who am I kidding.
"...Well? Have you asked enough?"
Luka: "Hm...I have."
Has this guy reflected on his mistakes? In case he hasn't, my glare should be enough of a warning.
"In any case, I will set off for Albion in the morning."
Henrietta: "There is news that the Crown Prince Wales set up his base somewhere around Newcastle."
"Understood. I have travelled to Albion with both of my sisters before. I am somewhat knowledgable about the area."
Henrietta: "The journey will be frought with danger. If the Albion nobles are to know of your purpose they will use every means to obstruct you."
The Albion Nobles Faction. The enemies this time isn't a lone thief, but a group of influential and powerful people...
Princess sits on my chair, and writes on a parchment she bring with her. A letter maybe?
...She stops.
"Princess, is there a problem?"
Henrietta: "N—No, nothing."
Princess continues, and finishes the letter, with a sad expression. It's as if she was writing a letter to a lover far apart...But it's not a matter I should intrude upon.
Princess rolls up the letter, waves her wand to seal it with beewax, stamped with the royal seal.
Henrietta: "Once you meet the Crown Prince Wales, give him this letter. He will present you with the letter in question."
Princess removes a ring from her right ring finger and...put it in my hand?
Henrietta: "This is the Ruby of Water I recieved from my mother. Please keep it as a charm. If you encounter inconvenience in your journey, please sell it and use the money to support your travel."
"I am very grateful for your kindess, Princess."
An important item from Princess's mother, this Louise Françoise would never dare sell it.
Henrietta: "The future of Tristain depends on this mission. May the ring of my mother protect you from the fierce wind of Albion."
"Thank you for your blessing. I swear to you I will see this mission through, even if I have to trade my life for it."
Henrietta: "That is not something I wish for, Louise Françoise. But I know you will try your best regardless of what I say."
Yes. That is what I intend to do, no matter what.
Henrietta: "I should go back before someone notices my absent. But, what should we do with him?"
Princess looks hesitantly to the unconscious Guiche. This guy's such a trouble.
"Please do not worry yourself with this thing. I will have my familiar drop him off in the hallway. He can find his way back."
Henrietta: "I see...Then I will be off."
"Forgive me for not being able to accompany you on the way back."
Henrietta: "It is all right. Do take care of yourself."
Princess opens the door. I still can't believe she really came to visit me on her own. It's been so long, since that happened...
Henrietta: "Louise..."
"Yes, Princess?"
Henrietta: "I have never belived it, not even for a second. I know Miss Cattleya. She would never do something like that."
"Princess... My sister would be very happy to hear that. I will make sure to tell her when I go back home." The vacation is just around the corner. If I return from this mission alive, that is.
Henrietta: "With you as its daughter, the House of La Vallière will have its good name restored soon; I am sure of it. I look forward to the day the three of us sit together in the garden again, talking about happy times, like we used to."
"I do, as well."
PBW: "Most of the chapter was in Louise's POV. After all, she's going be the secondary protagonist next to Luka. Switching between theses two should pretty much give a complete picture to the events."
Ilias: "What are you saying, when you drew so much of the contents from the base materials, especially the conversation between the girl and the princess."
PBW: "Well, it felt kind of necessary. In the original novel I only got to read Saito's inner complaints, which was honestly annoying. I like writing from Louise's POV. Most people probably don't understand where Louise was coming from and can't sympathize with her. The base material was entirely in 3rd person POV as well; that made understanding her intention even harder without assuming a lot of things. And if the readers are from different cultures, that would be next to impossible. But I do. Because parts of my personality is similar to hers, except I'm older now."
Ilias: "That type of personality contributes to no charm at all in male sex. What a sorry creature you are."
PBW: "Just leave it."