Tatiana's Perspective
Part 1: Tatiana's Bedroom (Morning)
"Good morning, Lady Tatiana," Lily greets me with a warm smile, her eyes closed in a cheerful manner.
"Hn... good morning, Lily..." I respond, letting out a small yawn and stretching.
As I awaken to Lily's call, I notice her lingering gaze. "Is something amiss with me today? It seems you've been staring at me for a while now," I inquire, troubled by Lily's intense scrutiny.
"Oh, nothing. I was just wondering if Lady Tatiana is feeling unwell," Lily chuckles, expressing genuine concern for my health.
"That's thoughtful of you, Lily, but I'm quite alright at the moment," I assure her, touched by her care.
Together, we make our way downstairs to the dining area. Lily has already assisted me in getting dressed. She guides me to the dining room, where Blanc and Sakuya are already seated.
"Good day today, Blanc and Sakuya," I greet them as I'm led to the main chair by Lily, acknowledging the morning.
Sakuya nods in response, but I can't help but notice Blanc's persistent gaze on me. Despite the time we've spent together, her scrutiny remains unnerving.
After finishing breakfast, Blanc breaks the silence. "Tatiana? Do you remember anything that happened yesterday?" she inquires, her voice clear and direct.
"Yesterday? Wait, if I remember correctly, I was supposed to accompany Blanc to sneak into the cave," I recall, realizing that I missed the event.
"I'm sorry. I overslept, didn't I?" I apologize, feeling genuinely remorseful for missing the important task I had volunteered for.
"It's fine," Blanc replies unexpectedly, leaving me bewildered. This is not the lecture I had anticipated. Blanc simply walks away, likely back to her study room.
Now with some free time, I decide to practice my swordsmanship with Sakuya after ensuring there are no pressing matters. The clash of our blades echoes through the training area.
"I wonder what happened yesterday. I guess I was too sleepy to remember," I ponder, trying to recall the events.
"So, you really don't remember anything?" Sakuya asks, her expression unchanged as she addresses my concern.
"I don't know, but yesterday, I had a dream," I share, remembering fragments of the dream. "I managed to defeat Blanc. After she was defeated, she looked so cute in my imagination. Isn't that funny?"
"Is that so? Do you like it?" Sakuya inquires.
"I guess I'd be lying if I said I didn't, but still, I don't want to see that again."
"Well, a dream might dignify your achievements. Someday, you might face Blanc under different circumstances," Sakuya offers advice.
"Ahaha... You're right, Sakuya. I really need to work harder," I determine, appreciating her guidance.
"Aya?" I notice a group of people approaching, led by Aya.
We cease our clashing, and Aya approaches with Lumina and Aeris in tow. They've completed their assignments and collected materials as requested by Blanc.
"Sorry to bother you, Mistress and Master," Aya bows respectfully.
"I assume you have finished all your assignments," Sakuya inquires, expecting nothing but the best.
"Yes, we also finished collecting a few materials as requested by Lady Blanc," Aya informs, fulfilling their duties.
"You may leave," Sakuya orders, and the group departs.
What is Blanc's involvement in their assignments? Usually, Sakuya handles that department. I ponder the significance of Blanc's orders.
"Lily?" I call out as I notice her approaching.
"Lady Tatiana, there are matters you need to attend to," Lily informs me of urgent business.
Part 2: Study Room (Afternoon)
Sir Edmund, with a look of earnest concern, initiated a conversation that would weave through the fabric of politics and intrigue.
"It's been a while since we last met, hasn't it? How is the condition of your father?" I inquired, taking a seat in the plush chair, my gaze fixed on Edmund. This meeting, a divergence from the usual routine where Blanc or Lily would represent me, held an air of significance.
Edmund's response carried a mix of relief and optimism. "He is recovering, better than before, but still bedridden," he shared, his words echoing with the weight of familial concern.
"How dire. If there's anything we can assist you with, Sir Edmund, please don't hesitate to ask," I offered, genuine concern etched on my face. The camaraderie between our families had forged a bond that transcended the political landscape.
As the conversation unfolded, an undercurrent of unease lingered. Edmund, with a demeanor marked by responsibility, chose a moment of transparency. "Actually, Your Highness, there's a reason why I've come here."
His words navigated toward a disconcerting topic—the rumors circulating about my people trespassing into the forbidden cave at Mt. Olen. A ripple of curiosity mixed with caution colored my expression.
"If I may inquire, where did these rumors originate?" I questioned, acknowledging the truth but seeking the roots of this unsettling information.
"I wanted to warn you about the presence of the Minister of Military from Sunaria. They've come to investigate the issue at Mt. Olen," Edmund revealed, a shadow of concern clouding his eyes. The gravity of the situation began to unfold.
He had taken it upon himself to inform the Minister, putting me on the suspect list. The news, I realized, had spread faster than anticipated. "So, I'm on the suspect list," I stated, absorbing the weight of the accusation.
"I'm sorry, but we can't possibly challenge their authority, especially considering I'm not the actual mayor at this moment," Edmund apologized, a genuine acknowledgment of the limitations he faced in safeguarding my interests.
Turning to Blanc, my trusted advisor, I sought guidance. "What do you say about this, Lady Blanc?"
"Your Highness, if it were up to me, I would invite him for dinner. We can't afford to miss the chance to understand such an important figure," Blanc suggested, her words carrying the weight of strategic thinking.
"Well spoken, Lady Blanc. Please make the preparations to invite him," I declared, a spark of excitement kindling in my eyes. Hosting the Minister could be a pivotal move in navigating the intricate dance of politics.
Both Blanc and Lily nodded in agreement, their expressions reflecting a shared understanding of the necessity of this diplomatic gesture.
"Thank you, Your Highness," Edmund expressed gratitude, a sense of relief washing over him. The wheels of fate were set in motion, and I recognized the importance of playing the political game to ensure the safety of the entire town.
Chapter 52 END