After eating, I went to the library.
"Greetings, Young Master. Is there anything I can assist you with?"
"No, I just want to read a few books. You can continue with your work, no need to worry about me."
"Uh... alright, Young Master."
Hmm... First, let's study the history of this world. I should start with the basics.
"Oh, do you know where the book on history is located?"
"It's on the fifth shelf to the right."
"Thank you."
It's been quite a while since I last saw him, but now the Young Master looks more mature. He used to run around and melt everyone's hearts with his cuteness. Where did all that go?
Children grow up so fast these days.
I headed to the fifth shelf on the right and started looking for books that contained the history of this empire.
"History of the Aurelius Empire"
"Here it is."
Let's take a look.
I opened the book, and on the first page, I was greeted with a picture of the continent along with writing that was very different from what I knew in Japan.
This empire is located on the Aithrath Continent. It has the largest territory compared to the other empires.
In ancient times, this empire was called Vexillium. However, due to a civil war 1000 years ago, the name was changed to Aurelius to signify a new beginning.
In this empire, there are 5 core families that hold the center of power alongside the royal family.
Duke Ordesia rules the central region. His family's crest is a Lion.
Duke Fernandez rules the northern region. His family's crest is a Dragon.
Duke Willford rules the western region. His family's crest is a Wolf.
Marquis Ollyxston rules the southern region. His family's crest is a Snake.
Marquis Osmond rules the southern region. His family's crest is a Raven.
During the civil war 1000 years ago, these three dukes were the ones who stood by the rightful heir in a war against other kingdoms.
While the crown prince was occupied with the war, his half-brother, the illegitimate son of the king at the time, sought to take the throne for himself and attempted to kill his brother.
Well, wherever you go, people are often blinded by power.
In the end, the rightful heir won, and in honor of his friends who had helped him, he bestowed upon them the title of duke.
He then changed the name of the empire.
The imperial crest is a Phoenix.
"Allen."
I heard my older brother's voice.
When I turned, I saw both of my siblings standing not far from me. They looked curious about what I was doing.
"What are you doing? Come on, let's play in the garden."
"Ahh, I was just reading something."
"Imperial history, huh? Are you studying?"
"Can't say I'm studying either, brother."
"Come on, let's go."
I nodded at my sister's invitation, closed the book, and went to the garden with my sister and brother.
When we arrived at the garden, we headed to the gazebo. As soon as I sat down, the waiter served us tea.
"This time, the tea is Earl Grey. Please enjoy."
I started drinking the tea. Its aroma was wonderful and made me feel relaxed.
Then I picked up one of the macarons arranged on the cake plate.
The bitter taste of the tea and the sweet flavor of the macaron that melted in my mouth was the perfect combination.
"Allen really loves macarons. You always choose macarons over other snacks," my brother commented, seeing my expression.
"Yes, I really do."
"Then, I'll ask the chef to make you plenty of macarons."
"You shouldn't do that, Anastasia. Too many sweets aren't good for his health."
"Huh? Not that many. Hmph!"
Hearing herself being lectured, my sister immediately pouted.
Women, whether they're little girls or adults, are all the same.
"Why are you pouting like that?"
"I'm not pouting, you idiot Adrian."
"Who are you calling an idiot?"
"Of course, you!"
"Huh?!"
Well, this is how my everyday life goes with my two siblings.
A peaceful and calm life.
Please just ignore the little bickering between my siblings.
I hope this peace continues.
***
"You don't have much time. This world will be destroyed in the year 1052."
"Hmm?"
What is this woman talking about? The world is going to be destroyed? And in the year 1052? That's only 12 more years from now!
What the hell is going on?!?
How could all of this happen? Being told the world is on the brink of destruction by someone who claims to be a god, no less.
Just a moment ago, I was hoping that this peaceful life would continue.
It seems the world, indeed, loves to play cruel jokes.
Are you wondering how it all came to this? Then let's rewind a little—say, about an hour earlier.
.
.
.
Ahh, I'm so full.
My parents seemed delighted when they saw me finish all my food. I usually leave leftovers, so they must think this is some kind of improvement—probably a sign that I'm finally growing.
After dinner, I headed back to my room.
After a good meal, nothing beats the comfort of going straight to bed.
The maid opened the door for me, and as soon as I stepped inside, I noticed how tidy the room was. The soft scent of something calming filled the air.
I didn't waste any time; I immediately threw myself onto the bed.
The soft feel of the mattress and pillow practically swallowed me whole, pulling me into its warmth.
Today felt slower than usual. Maybe it's because I remembered my previous life.
I wonder... does anyone from my past life even miss me? My stepmother and that damn son of hers must be celebrating my death by now. With me out of the picture, they probably get to inherit my father's entire fortune.
The thought of letting them win like that leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
But whatever, it's over now. No use dwelling on it.
Besides, I'm already feeling drowsy. My eyes are struggling to stay open.
Let's just get some sleep.
And before I knew it, my consciousness began to fade away.