Chapter 5: My Meeting with the Beautiful Siblings

It was now the second summer since I had retrieved the memories of my past life — I was now ten years of age.

At around this time last year, my crops had been facing a wilting crisis, and Alan had been visiting all the time, challenging me to this and that. Comparatively, this year was somewhat peaceful.

With my fiancé Prince Jeord setting the pace and precedent, quite a few other guests showed up at the Claes manor. Alan and Mary were also visiting at regular intervals this year.

Although the two prince brothers did not seem to get along very well at first, they now seemed to have made amends. Alan, for his part, had begun to seriously study the piano and violin, giving his all when it came to music and instruments. His talent was noticed eventually, and now he was referred to as some sort of musical genius, blessed by the gods themselves.

Mary, too, made her fair share of progress — while she was a somewhat shirking and timid girl when I had first met her, she was now the very image of a young noble lady. Despite this, she still seemed to look up to me.

In fact, just the other day, Mary had made quite the bold statement, looking all dizzy as she did so. It was something along the lines of... “If I were a man myself, I would very well take Lady Katarina as my bride!”

Ah, Mary. A lovable girl, really.

While I did suggest to Mary that, “Well, Prince Alan is your fiancé. Should you not spend time with him instead?” Mary’s response, however, was swift: “I refuse, as that would mean I would have less time to spend with you, Lady Katarina.”

It was an utterly merciless refusal. I found myself at a loss for words.

Even my cute adopted brother, Keith, was now out and about, no longer locked up in that room of his. Of course, it would be a lot of trouble if Keith ended up becoming a playboy, charming the womenfolk around him. To that end, I often reminded him to be kind and gentle to women, and I personally felt that it was working.

On that note, I had also been improving my Catastrophic Bad End avoidance strategies... namely, a key strategy to escape from the clutches of Jeord should he ever come rushing at me with a drawn sword. To ensure that I would not be unjustly cut down, I trained hard at my swordplay and footwork, even earning praise from my tutor. Gone was my old weakness!

In addition, I had one more trick up my sleeve should Jeord go on the offensive. The head gardener of the Claes manor, “Grandpa” Tom, was quite talented with his hands. With his advice and expert consultation, my toy snakes had become even more lifelike in every possible way.

With this, Jeord would surely jump up in fright, mistaking the toy for the real thing. In fact, they were so impossibly lifelike, that I could probably make a fair amount of coin selling these at the local marketplace. Yet another strategy to cope with exile, should it ever happen.

I had not exactly been slacking off in the magic department either — it was, after all, part of my plan to make a living with my magic if it came down to it.

It had only been a year since I started receiving formal magic tutelage. At first, my “Earth Raiser” spell could only create bumps of two to three centimeters. I had made significant progress since, and was now able to make small hedges around fifteen centimeters in height. If I kept going at this rate, I would have to change my incantation to reflect its newfound impressiveness. Perhaps “Rise, Wall of Earth!” would be more fitting.

My adopted brother Keith had also made good progress, and was now fully capable of controlling his own magic. In fact, even a golem the size of the one that had previously sent me flying now obediently did his bidding.

Encouraged by Keith’s success, I too tried manipulating an Earth Golem. The infusion of magic into a golem was unexpectedly difficult, however, and such precise magical techniques were still beyond me.

Having been reincarnated as a noble daughter of a duke, I had assumed that my physical precision would have somewhat increased, but this was unfortunately not the case. If anything, I felt like I had not changed much at all in that regard.

My magical tutor reminded me on a regular basis that one required adequate reserves of mana and magical capacity to utilize magic appropriately. Magic was truly a deep and complicated subject.

And so, I spent my days in this carefree, yet fulfilling fashion. Along the way, however, I had developed one more hobby, in addition to tilling the fields and climbing trees.

Said hobby was... reading. By reading, I did not mean books on history or economics — no, none of those hard, stuffy subjects. The books I liked were none other than romance novels.

While spoken about in hushed tones and whispers, a definitive romance novel boom was spreading across nearby towns as of late. Such novels were considered beneath a noble’s tastes on account of their supposedly vulgar nature. In spite of that, many continued to enjoy them in private.

As for how these books reached my desk, the answer was simple — it was thanks to a certain maid in the manor. This maid, for one reason or another, had a good understanding of current trends and other goings-on in the streets.

All it took was a single loaner book — it wasn’t long before I was completely hooked. My reaction was perhaps somewhat natural, given the fact that I no longer had access to the manga and anime I had so voraciously consumed in my previous life.

The subject matter of these novels were varied — love stories about charming princes, knights, or even stories on the beauty of friendship. While the offerings in the market paled in comparison to what I had in my past life, I immediately took to these novels like a fish to water.

Perhaps it was also worth mentioning that my absolute favorite at the current moment was a story of a beautiful friendship between two girls, a princess and a commoner girl. It was called Princess Emerald and Sophia.

I was ecstatic that my mother quickly approved of my newfound hobby, and promptly handed me some allowance to purchase said books. Anne’s commentary probably had something to do with it — if I recall, she had said something along the lines of... “In my humble opinion, Madam, it would be far more appropriate for the young miss to quietly read books in her room, as opposed to getting up to no-good outside.”

I suppose my mother had heard this statement enough times to make up her mind. At any rate, I was now able to purchase and read the books I liked, and that was a blessing, truly.

Amidst all the good news, however, was a single unfortunate development — the maid who had introduced me to these novels in the first place had recently left our employ because she was getting married. With her departure, I lost a friend and comrade, and I no longer had anyone to discuss these novels with.

Ah, it filled me with such an itch! I really did want to share my passion with someone else. In my search for a kindred spirit, I even attempted to introduce such books to Anne and Mary. But they weren’t interested in romance novels of any kind. A most unfortunate development indeed.

Ah, I want a friend, I really do! I’ll have to go looking for one at the next tea party we attend.

As it happens, news arrived a few days later that Jeord and Alan were holding a tea party at the royal castle. Due to the party’s royal nature, many young lords and ladies were slated to attend — and with these numbers, perhaps I would be able to find someone who truly understood my passion... for romance novels.

Before I knew it, I had started looking forward to this royal tea party. The event would be held in a corner of the royal gardens — a wide corner, at least, given how large the grounds were. The format would be similar to the first one I had attended at the Hunt manor; an event mimicking the social dance parties one would attend once they were of age.

As expected of a royal-hosted party, this event was larger and more grand than any I had been to before. It was on a different scale altogether, and there were also many more people in attendance.

Given the fact that Jeord and Alan usually visited and spent quite a lot of time with me, it was somewhat different to only exchange brief pleasantries with them. The two were hosting the event, after all, and didn’t have much time for our usual, longer conversations.

Having learned my lesson from my first tea party misadventure, I refrained from stuffing my face with snacks, and instead sat still, drinking my tea as elegantly as I could manage.

Of course, as expected from the royal kitchens, the tea and the snacks were both unbelievably good. I couldn’t even count all the varieties of snacks on display!

Suppressing my desire was slowly becoming a herculean feat. While I tried to be strategic by limiting myself to one of each snack, I didn’t expect to see a wide variety of teas on display. In a rare, but equally unfortunate occurrence, I sampled each and every one, and soon realized that I had a little too much. My stomach puffed out slightly, visibly rounder than before.

I, however, had grown as a noble lady. After temporarily excusing myself as elegantly as I could, I left Keith and Mary behind, slowly and calmly heading to a nearby bathroom as my resolve was tested.

As I quickly navigated the castle grounds in search for relief, however, I came across a most horrifying sight. It was a vicious dog, running free and unchained — a guard dog of some sort that had escaped from its keeper, perhaps.

Honestly speaking, I was no good with dogs... if only because they seemed to have always hated me. In fact, this held true even in my past life. For some inexplicable reason, most dogs flew into a rage at the very sight of me, as if they were being confronted with an ancient enemy.

To make things worse, the escaped guard dog now bared its fangs at me, as if to signal that it was a threat. But we’ve just met mere seconds ago! What the heck!!

Of course, the unchained guard dog wasted no time in making a beeline for me. While I could have scared away certain types of dogs, notably that of the Chihuahua-class, this one was as large as a Doberman, and was not an enemy I could defeat.

Hiking up my dress, I ran, escaping as quickly as I could. This in turn logically led to me climbing up a nearby tree for refuge.

Unable to harass me as I hid amongst the tree’s branches, the dog howled and growled for what seemed to be an eternity. Before long, however, a voice called out — its master, perhaps, having noticed that his hound was missing. Obeying the voice, the dog turned and left, and for a while, all was still.

Relieved, I started making my way downwards... only to be greeted with several humans I had not seen before. The dog was nowhere to be seen. There were six, maybe seven of them — and of all things, they had decided to start a conversation at the bottom of this very tree that I had climbed.

If I go down now... they would know that I climbed up to begin with! A perfect, infallible daughter of a Duke... climbing trees in the royal castle gardens? If word of this got out... it would really be bad. I have to quickly move to another location...!

I was, however, at my limit. To begin with, I already needed to go to the bathroom — and then I was chased by a rabid dog, and was eventually chased up this tree. It had been... quite a while. Very soon, my bladder would reach its final, ultimate limit.

Even if my descent from a tree were to become a cause for rumors... I no longer had a choice. It’ll be infinitely preferable to wetting myself — at this age, no less! The shame!

Steeling myself, I slid down the tree at full speed. The gathered individuals could only stare at me blankly, obviously taken aback by my sudden appearance.

“Do excuse me, but you’re in my way,” I said to the small crowd that had assembled here for no apparent reason. It was as if they had been placed here by some divine force — all for the terrible purpose of preventing me from going to the bathroom.

My panicked, anxious voice sounded more stern than I had intended it to be — it was almost cold and demeaning to my ears! But now was not the time to be concerned about such trivialities.

As if terrified by my sudden entrance and prompt dismissal, the children scattered rapidly, like leaves in the wind. Was I that fearsome? Surely there’s no need to run away from me like that!

Upon closer inspection, there was one girl left standing before me — too stunned to escape, I suppose. The girl had her back to the tree in question, and didn’t seem to have witnessed my dramatic entrance.

As she turned around, I found myself taken aback. I swallowed, surprised at the sight. She was... beautiful, to say the least. Her crimson eyes complimented her snow-white hair — a stunning girl with smooth, fair skin that was almost translucent.

For a split second, I was entranced by her beauty, only to be rudely jolted back to reality by the intense pressure in my bladder. If I didn’t make it to the bathroom soon, a tragedy would surely occur.

Mustering up all my willpower, I smiled as gently as I could to the somewhat frightened girl — my best attempts at reassuring her, given the situation. And then I turned and rushed off in the appropriate direction.

By some stroke of luck, I eventually made it, thus preventing the outbreak of a true tragedy over the course of this tea party. The worst was now over — but I couldn’t shake the feeling that I would one day be bested by these treacherous events.

From now on, I would have to seriously consider a portable toilet of some kind whenever I attended a tea party. I entertained the thought for a while with a serious expression on my otherwise relieved face.

Having managed to reach the bathroom without incident, I returned to where I had originally sat at the tea party, only to find that Keith and Mary where nowhere in sight. There were simply too many people.

Complaining inwardly, I soon acted on my frustrations, stuffing whatever leftover snacks I could reach into my mouth.

“Ah... Um.” A small voice drifted out from behind me.

Turning around, I came face to face with the stunningly beautiful girl whom I had met at the tree.

“Ah... you were the one from just now...”

“Y-Yes. That is correct...” the beautiful girl said, nodding slowly.

Now that I had a good look at her, she truly was breathtaking. Although I was used to beautiful people in general thanks to Prince Jeord and my merry band of friends, this girl was in a class of her own. I swallowed hard in spite of myself.

Her pure-white hair almost seemed like strands of silk, cascading in a silent, frozen waterfall. Her skin was reminiscent of freshly-fallen snow — impossibly pure and soft. Her features only seemed to accentuate her crimson eyes — those very same eyes were staring straight into my soul.

She reminded me of... a character in a romance novel.

Actually... AH! That’s right! She looks exactly like Sophia, from that trending novel Princess Emerald and Sophia!!

Sophia was of common birth. She had black, silky hair, and equally black, soulful eyes. Her skin was white — white like snow. A true beauty. The Princess, who had sneaked out into the town, was captivated by Sophia’s beauty.

The girl before me was like a real incarnation of Sophia herself. But unlike the character she was here, standing before me in the flesh.

I stared at the girl, unable to comprehend what I was seeing.

“Um... a-about just now...” Her snow-white cheeks were now flushed, a gentle shade of red slowly spreading through her face.

Ah, this is just like that scene! Just like how Sophia reacts when she first lays eyes upon Princess Emerald! That very same blush.

Unfortunately for the girl, I was no beautiful princess, but instead Katarina Claes, villainess extraordinaire... all thanks to this face of mine.

If I recall, the princess said this exact line to Sophia...

“What pretty hair you have. Just like strands of silk... would you mind if I ran my fingers through it, just ever so slightly?”

“...Eh?!” The girl before me seemed shocked. Her expression was enough to wake me up from my daydream...

Ugh! What have I done? My fantasies slipped out from my lips before I knew it!

The girl shifted her weight from one leg to another, apparently in a state of panic. A natural reaction if confronted by a fairy-tale prince... of course. But to think that the person who said it to her was none other than me, with my villainess-like face! If I were her, I would be afraid, truly afraid!

“Ah... Um. I meant to say...” I desperately searched for an excuse.

The panicked girl, however, suddenly blurted out a line of her own. “...Princess Emerald.”

WHAT?! Is... could this possibly be?!

Before I could stop myself, I gripped her shoulders, moving my face close to hers. “Princess Emerald! From the romance novels!! Perhaps... maybe! You know of Princess Emerald and Sophia too?!”

Intimidated by my sudden approach and the fact that I was gripping her by the shoulders, the girl nodded rapidly, her panic hardly fading. Encouraged, I listed off various titles, only to have the girl nod at each and every single one of them.

I can’t believe it! I’ve found her! My comrade-in-arms in romance novel appreciation!

That’s not all! Just like the character in the story, she’s also stunningly beautiful!

I... I am overcome. With emotion, with gratitude.

I stood, shivering in place...

“...What are you doing, Big Sister?” A familiar, yet somewhat suspicious-sounding voice. Suspicious of... me?

Turning in the direction of the voice, I was greeted by Keith, my adopted brother, flanked by Mary.

“...What? Whatever do...” I turned back to the girl, observing my own behavior.

I had apparently captured her with my hands, one on each shoulder at some point in time. My face was close to hers, and my nostrils were flared up in excitement.

Ah, yes. I look like the classic pervert.

“Wah! I-I apologize.” I muttered, promptly letting the girl go. I could feel surprised stares converging on me from all directions.

Yes, truly... I am sorry. In my sudden bout of elation, all logic left my being.

Come to think of it, I don’t even know her name!! And to make it worse, I didn’t tell her mine!

What terrible social faux pas, enough to disqualify me as a noble lady!

Lifting my dress as slightly and elegantly as I could, I curtsied, issuing a formal social greeting.

“I do apologize for my manners. I am Katarina Claes. Very pleased to make your acquaintance.”

Despite the fact that she had been captured by a suspicious-looking villainess, and was now being formally greeted by her, the girl greeted me in kind — as expected of little ladies with noble upbringing.

“...Sophia Ascart.”

What?! She’s... Sophia? Like the Sophia in the book? Was Sophia based off this beautiful girl before me?!

My unbridled excitement and literary arousal was off the charts.

“Lady Sophia! If it would please you, would you like to speak in greater detail with me?” I asked enthusiastically, grasping Sophia’s hands in my own.

Keith, however, who had been standing next to me this entire time, promptly reminded me of the situation at hand.

“Big Sister, I do apologize for interrupting you in the midst of such spirited conversation... but the tea party has already ended. We should make the appropriate preparations and return to the manor.”

“?!”

WHAT?! B-But my passionate discussions on novels! We’ve barely started!

In that case...!

“Well then, Lady Sophia. If you would like, please feel free to pay a visit to the Claes manor...”

“...Eh? Um...”

Grasping Sophia’s hands once again, I issued her a quick invitation, and was elated as she promptly accepted.

I did it! Not wanting to waste the opportunity, I decided on a date and time for the visit on the spot.

“Well then, I will be eagerly awaiting your arrival.”

With that, and an adequately large smile, I bid Sophia farewell and turned to return to the manor with Keith.

And so it came to be that I met the comrade I desired at this royal tea party. Not only would she discuss my favorite novels with me, she even looked like a character from my favorite book! What a HUGE SUCCESS!

I grinned widely all the way back in the horse carriage as Keith looked on, a somewhat surprised and flabbergasted expression on his face.

It was soon the promised day — and as expected, Sophia turned up at the Claes manor. I had been looking forward to this the entire morning.

“Young Miss, the Lady Sophia you had been speaking about has arrived, but...” Anne, apparently here to inform me of Sophia’s arrival, seemed a little off.

But this is it! Sophia is here! In my haste to see her, I dashed out of the room, leaving Anne with a cursory word of thanks.

As expected, Sophia was standing in the guest parlor, awaiting my arrival. Beautiful as always... but oh? For some reason, there was another person by her side — a ravishing youth.

With his raven-black hair and eyes, he seemed somewhat different from Sophia in appearance. Upon closer inspection, however, I found that this was not the case — their facial similarities suggested familial ties. Like two perfect dolls, they stood side by side, perfectly complimenting each other.

If I had to guess, this was the reason why Anne was so surprised earlier. Entranced by their beauty, I could only stare at them in wonderment — the boy, however, was the first to call out to me.

“Thank you very much for extending an invitation to my sister. My sister seldom ventures out on her own, so I have come with her. My name is Nicol. I am Sophia’s elder brother.”

My hunch was indeed accurate — this impossibly handsome youth was Sophia’s brother.

I was slightly surprised at Nicol’s statement. Sophia must have been quite the sheltered child. Perhaps I wasn’t one to talk. I was sheltered in my own way, primarily due to my mother insisting that, “You will have Keith accompany you when heading out at all times. You will listen to what Keith says, and under no circumstances will you do anything strange.”

As such, Keith was predictably always by my side. Yes, on account of us both being so sheltered, we will surely be fast friends.

With those thoughts in mind, I curtsied properly, first to Sophia’s brother and then to Sophia herself. “No, the pleasure is all mine. Thank you for coming. I am Katarina Claes.”

“Nicol Ascart, elder brother of Sophia Ascart. Pleased to make your acquaintance,” he said, introducing himself once more.

I froze at those words. Nicol Ascart... a name that I was familiar with. I had definitely heard it somewhere before. “Ah, excuse my ignorance, but would you happen to be Chancellor Ascart’s son...?”

“Yes. That is correct.”

No way?! This person is a potential love interest in Fortune Lover, Nicol Ascart! No wonder he’s so pretty and handsome!

Honestly speaking, I had wanted to drop everything and return to my room this very instant so I could pull out the archives and give them a good read. That wasn’t exactly something I could do in this moment, so I did my best to recall what details I could.

Nicol Ascart... son of Chancellor Ascart, and a childhood friend of Alan’s. A year older than the protagonist, and an upperclassman in the Academy who was famous for saying relatively little.

Hmm. Nope, this is all I can recall at the moment.

To begin with, I still hadn’t attempted Nicol’s route before my untimely death!

I’d planned to do it after finally succeeding with Jeord.

As a result, I knew very little of Nicol’s route... primarily on the account that I hadn’t even touched it. If not for one of my friends introducing the character to me, I would have never heard of him at all! That friend of mine had cleared his route beforehand, and was telling us all about it.

Let me see... according to what my friend Acchan said... the rival character in Nicol’s route is... that’s right! His sister!

Yes, I remember now! Nicol is hopelessly overprotective of his sister... and so Sophia is the rival in this case.

To successfully romance Nicol, one would first have to appropriately interact with Sophia... I vaguely recall Acchan saying something like that.

Ah, thank you so much, Acchan. And I am also very sorry for getting upset about the spoilers. Who would think that Acchan’s spoilers would be of assistance to me in such a scenario...?

So... if the rival character is indeed Sophia, that would mean that Katarina has nothing to do with it! There are no Catastrophic Bad Ends with Nicol!

In addition, if Sophia is indeed the rival character, Katarina won’t have any famous lines to steal... unlike the incident with Alan and Mary. At the very least, I hope I won’t end up doing the same thing again.

Well then! With this, there’ll be no problems even if I become good friends with Sophia. After all, she’s an ally, a comrade-in-arms in my enjoyment of romance novels!

I would never let her escape so easily...

“...Um. Lady Katarina...?”

It would seem that I, Katarina Claes, had once again fallen prey to my mental fantasies. Before I knew it, Sophia was looking straight at me with worry evident on her pretty face.

“Ah, Lady Sophia. I do apologize. It is nice to meet you again, truly! If you would like, I would be glad to continue our previous conversation...”

With that, I invited Sophia to a table that had been prepared for the occasion, lined with delicious tea and snacks. After that, Sophia and I spent quite some meaningful hours together.

While she was somewhat reserved and fearful at first, perhaps in response to a strange new environment, Sophia eventually opened up as the conversation shifted to books.

She really seemed to love her books. In addition to contemporary romance novels, she also read older fairy tales and myths, along with historical fiction and many other genres. It was truly an interesting conversation — she even gave me a few recommendations!

If there was one thing that did slightly bother me, however, it was the fact that Sophia’s brother Nicol hardly said a thing. In fact, he distanced himself from our discussion, simply watching on quietly. I felt somewhat bad about excluding him while we were having a cheerful and adequately girlish conversation. Perhaps I should have called Keith here to keep him company?

He really was quiet, just like his character setting. What a waste, given how dashing he is!

Time passed all too quickly without either of us noticing. We were both brought back to reality all too soon by one of Sophia’s entourage, who whispered that it was almost time for her to return.

Quickly standing up in response to the statement, Sophia’s hair glittered and shimmered, shining silently as I watched on, entranced. It’s really... beautiful. There’s no mistake about it — surely it would feel just like silk. Would she mind if I touched it... just a little bit?

“What beautiful hair you have... would you mind if I ran my fingers through it, just ever so slightly?”

The words had already escaped my lips before I could catch myself. I had blurted out a line from Princess Emerald and Sophia... and had delivered the line as if I were the princess herself.

In the novel, however... Sophia was blushing, her face stained a soft crimson. But here...

“...Eh?!”

What a disaster! I seem to have startled Sophia greatly! Oh no, I’ve done it! She looks positively distressed! What have you done now, Katarina Claes?!

While I had always happily played with Mary’s soft, sometimes wavy hair, I hadn’t thought about the fact that touching another noble lady’s hair in this world may be a social faux pas! Mary, of course, always seemed glad, but still...

To make things worse, I grabbed her by the shoulders and breathed into her face when I first met her! Surely she thinks I’m some sort of deviant! A pervert!

What a terrible turn of events!! Even if I do have a face of a villainess, I don’t want the title of pervert! Anything but that!

“...U-Um... well...” I stood rooted to the spot, internally panicking as I searched for an excuse.

“...you?”

“...Eh?”

Sophia repeated herself, her voice weak and quivering — it was an almost inaudible whisper. I calmly asked her to repeat herself.

“...Does it not... disgust you?” Sophia said, in a louder voice now.

Disgust? Disgust... you? Me? Wait! Is she disgusted by my seemingly perverse actions?!

No, no Sophia! You have it all wrong, I’m not a pervert at all!! All right, so maybe there was that incident from a year ago where I supposedly seduced Mary away from a certain haughty prince but... BUT! I don’t swing that way! I’m normal! I’m just a normal girl!!

“A-About that, I... uh...” An excuse! Think of one, quickly! Do it now!

“...Are you not disgusted by my appearance, Lady Katarina?”

I stood, gaping, having lost all my words and the train of thought behind them. Eh? What? The disgusting one here isn’t me... but Sophia? What?

Sophia continued on, evidently close to tears, as I stood with my mouth still agape like that of a gasping goldfish.

“...Does it not disgust you, Lady Katarina? This... white hair of mine, only seen in the elderly... these blood-red eyes. Everyone calls me a disgusting, cursed child...”

“?!”

WHAT?! How can something so beautiful be disgusting?!

Thus far, I had seen blonde, silver, brown, red, and black eyes and hair amongst the denizens of this world. As such, I had simply assumed that Sophia’s white hair and red eyes were relatively normal. To think... she was ostracized for it? Wasn’t that strange? And then there was that...

“...Cursed? What do you mean...?”

Sophia attempted to answer my question, even amidst her tumultuous emotions. But it was Nicol, her brother, who spoke first.

“...Malicious rumors. From certain individuals who are jealous of our father’s — our family’s achievements. Such jealousy causes them to spread these baseless accusations.”

That made some sense; the Ascarts were a formidable family. I suppose it was only natural for the strong and capable to have many enemies, and of course, these enemies and detractors would in turn spread nasty rumors about them.

This was true even for the Claes family. While Keith was capable and skilled, and I had tried my best to cultivate a noble image, rumors on the street claimed that we were “strange and eccentric.” Baseless accusations indeed! Ah, jealousy is a terrible and frightful thing.

“...Even so. It does little to change the fact that my appearance is disgusting and revolting,” Sophia said, with a surprising amount of conviction and force.

She must have heard many of these rumors whispered around her person. While it was true that I had never seen anyone quite like Sophia all this time...

“...Well, I personally think you’re very pretty...”

“...Eh?” Sophia’s eyes opened wide. She stared straight at me— no, into me, as I continued, meeting her gaze.

“I think that your silky white hair is beautiful. That your ruby-red, sparkling eyes are beautiful. That... you... are beautiful.”

Now that I’ve made myself clear, perhaps I’ll stop coming across as a pervert!

Anything but that! No pervert labels shall befall me! If I have a villainess-like face and am labeled a pervert, I have no idea what I would do.

Rest assured, Sophia. I am normal, the very epitome of normal. Attempting to reassure her, I gave Sophia my warmest possible smile.

“Actually, I would be so pleased if you would come and visit again! And if you don’t mind... would you like to be my friend?”

Saying so, I held out a hand — and was surprised when Sophia grasped it in her own. Her beautiful, gentle white hands were tightly holding mine. Fortunately, she no longer had a surprised or shocked expression on her face. This was the story of how I made my first romance-novel appreciating friend.

I saw Sophia and her entourage out to the porch and waved as they boarded their horse carriage. Immediately after, I returned to my room and pulled out the “Archive of memories on the game I played in my past life.” As expected, there were not many details recorded within.

While I was surprised that Sophia was a rival character just like Katarina, I had not done anything strange or untoward this time. I felt a wave of relief wash over my being. If anything, I was happy — Sophia was of the same age as Katarina, and also had reserves of magic within her.

This, of course, meant that we would be in the same year at the Magic Academy. We would be able to discuss romance novels, even in class!

Overcome with happiness, I jumped up from my bed, bouncing as I landed. This behavior, of course, earned me a stern warning from Anne.

And that was how Sophia ended up coming on regular visits to the Claes manor — along with Nicol, her silent brother.

Perhaps it was due to the influence of Sophia and my passionate conversations, but Mary eventually began to show some interest too. She eventually asked, “May I borrow a book, Lady Katarina?” Before long, Mary had joined our novel appreciation group, and our conversations became even more lively.

I even took Sophia out to the fields one day, on account of her never having played much outside before. In fact, she even started assisting me with my crops!

While they were both surprised at first, Sophia and Nicol were now very much used to me, and did not react much even if I showed up in my gardening overalls.

With this, the Claes manor gained yet another regular visitor, and I, a great friend.

★★★★★★★★★

My name is Sophia Ascart, eldest daughter of the Ascart family. I was born to Count Ascart, my father, who was chancellor to the King. The King valued and trusted him greatly.

My father was a gentle person — just like my mother and older brother. I was born into privilege, and blessed with a kind, loving family. I had really been blessed ever since I was born. I was truly happy... And maybe that was why it happened, as a price for my happiness and blessings.

I was born different; different than the others around me. My hair was white, stark white — as if all color had fallen from it. My eyes were red, red as blood.

My appearance was... abnormal. People would cast their curious gazes at me, and eventually whisper about me in the shadows, calling me a cursed child.

Even so, my family loved me dearly. My father, who would gently pat my head; my mother, who would lovingly hold me; and my dear brother, who was always at my side, protecting me with all his being.

My gentle family told me that one day, someone who understood me would appear. They told me that I would surely be able to make great friends... but I did not think that was true.

That was why I shut myself in my room. I did not want anyone to look upon me — and I isolated myself as much as possible.

In my quiet room, I read book after book. The wondrous, beautiful stories within transported me away from my cruel reality. When I was reading, I could forget about all my troubles.

Amongst these books, my favorite was one about a friendship between a princess and a young commoner girl — Princess Emerald and Sophia.

The girl in the story shared a name with me — she, too, was Sophia. But in the story, Sophia was popular and cheerful, with a head full of jet-black hair and a pair of sparkling black eyes.

The princess would eventually cross paths with Sophia...

“What beautiful hair you have... would you mind if I ran my fingers through it, just ever so slightly?” the princess said, turning to Sophia with a gentle smile. Sophia smiled back shyly.

It was a most splendid story... one that a cursed child like me could not possibly experience. This was why I continued locking myself up in my room, fantasizing about becoming Sophia — the Sophia in the stories with Princess Emerald.

In my imagination, at least, I could be a girl that was popular and loved by those around her...

“Sophia, please do go to the tea party at the royal castle,” my father said to me, gently as ever, one day.

Up until now, I had not attended any sort of tea party. After all... a single step outside was all it took for people to start whispering about my cursed appearance.

So... I really did not want to go outside. I told my gentle father how I felt. I really did not want to go. But my father, who usually gave in to my demands, did not nod his head on that day.

“Listen, Sophia. Magic dwells in you, and when you come of age, you will be enrolled in the academy, just like your peers. It would not do you much good to stay cooped up in your room all day. The upcoming tea party is hosted by the royal princes, and many noble children will be in attendance. Some of them would even attend the academy with you. If it hurts or becomes difficult, Sophia, then you can come home early — but at the very least, you need to see a little more of the outside world.”

Of course, I knew this was true. When I reached fifteen years of age, I would be forced to attend the academy — even I knew that I could not remain in my room forever, lost in my fantasies and stories.

“At the very least, you need to see a little more of the outside world,” my father said.

He was right... regardless of my misgivings, I did my best to muster up some courage, and decided to attend this tea party.

And so, my brother Nicol and I attended a tea party for the very first time in my life. It was a large and fancy party, held in one of the corners of the royal gardens. There were many people there — crowds of a size I had never seen before.

At first, I wandered around with my brother, looking at various snacks and teas I had never seen before. But soon we were separated, and I found myself surrounded by many other noble children.

All of them had the same severe, judgmental expressions. They ended up bringing me to a tree on the outskirts of the tea party, and under it, we stood.

“Do you even know how important of an occasion this is? This is the first tea party hosted by the royal princes!”

“That’s right! If a cursed child like you shows up at an event like this, you’ll spoil everything!”

“Why are you even here? You shouldn’t be showing that shameful cursed face of yours around!”

They surrounded me, all the while saying terrible things. I knew that I looked disgusting... I knew that people hated me. Even so, all I could do was stand quietly, biting my lip in silence.

I should never have left my room. I would have been safe if I stayed locked up, and something like this would not happen to me.

Just as those thoughts crossed my mind...

“Do excuse me, but you’re in my way.”

A clear voice rang out from behind me. I turned around, and standing before me was a girl. She was cool, composed, and elegant... just like Princess Emerald herself. When did she appear? How did she get there...?

With a single, cool dismissal, the bullies that had surrounded me scattered to the winds. It was all so sudden, and I did not understand what was happening — but I did know that this girl had helped me.

I could only stand in place, stunned, as the girl smiled at me in that same composed and confident manner. Soon she turned around, briskly walking off to some unknown destination.

For a while, my eyes were trained on her silhouette, and all I could do... was stare. I hid behind the tree, afraid that the bullies would return. I only made my way back to the tea party after affirming that they were indeed gone... and as fate would have it, I crossed paths with the girl from earlier.

I should thank her for helping me... And so, I mustered up my courage once more, approaching her with a shaky voice. “Um...”

She turned around in an impossibly graceful manner, with that same calm and collected expression on her face.

“Um... a-about just now...”

I was too nervous. My voice... it wouldn’t come out. Her azure eyes stared straight into mine... then her lips parted, and she spoke.

“What pretty hair you have. Just like strands of silk... would you mind if I ran my fingers through it, just ever so slightly?”

“...Eh?!”

It was a line from Princess Emerald and Sophia... I would know, having read it dozens of times. It was what was said to the bright and cheerful Sophia as she crossed paths with a mysterious girl in town... A girl with an aura of refinement and confidence. Her name was...

“...Princess Emerald,” I said, without thinking.

And then...

“Princess Emerald! From the romance novels!! Perhaps... maybe! You know of Princess Emerald and Sophia too?!”

Before I knew it, the girl had her hands on my shoulders. I could only stand in shocked silence. Why did this girl suddenly say one of Princess Emerald’s lines...? Why was she holding me so tightly by the shoulders? I... I did not know what was going on anymore...

Only curious gazes, or cold, judgmental ones, had been cast at me all my life. And yet... this girl’s eyes were sparkling — they shone as she looked straight at me.

I have never... never seen. Anyone look at me in this manner before... My confusion intensified.

Swept along by the flow, I could only meekly nod as the girl asked me a variety of questions, seemingly getting more excited by the minute.

“...What are you doing, Big Sister?”

A surprised voice from the sidelines. I turned, and there stood a handsome youth with brown hair and blue eyes. The two seemed to know each other.

“Wah! I-I apologize.” The girl finally let go of me at the youth’s question. She then curtsied most elegantly, finally introducing herself. “I do apologize for my manners. I am Katarina Claes. Very pleased to make your acquaintance.”

Her mannerisms and countenance... it was really like she was Princess Emerald, in the flesh.

I soon realized that I had to return the greeting with one of my own, and quickly did so in a somewhat panicked manner. “...Sophia Ascart.”

And then... a most unbelievable thing occurred.

“Lady Sophia! If it would please you, would you like to speak in greater detail with me?”

The girl— no... Katarina’s hands were now holding mine. What is this girl saying...? Does she know who... what, I am?

I could not understand the situation, and only stood still, silent. And then —

“Well then, Lady Sophia. If you would like, please feel free to pay a visit to the Claes manor...”

“...Ah... um. Yes. I will.”

Before I knew it, I had promised Katarina that I would pay her a visit. Even as we finalized the details of my attendance, I felt lost and confused — no longer sure if this was reality, or the dreams and fantasies that I had always imagined while locked away in my room.

And so... the promised day arrived. I had never gone outside on my own, and so naturally, my gentle and caring brother accompanied me.

My brother was a year older than me, with a head of raven-black hair and deep, thoughtful eyes. He had come along to protect me — having him next to me was truly reassuring.

And so I mustered up my courage and made the trip to the Claes Manor. When we arrived, the servants who welcomed us stared at me with expressions of surprise and shock. Although I was already used to all this, I could feel what little courage I gathered rapidly fading.

Perhaps this is all just another prank... As my unease consumed me, she appeared. Her refined features, her rapid breaths — it seemed like she had rushed all the way here. Katarina, however, simply stared at us, not saying a single word.

Is it true? Is it all just a joke, after all? Was I mistaken in coming here? I froze in place, and words never left my lips. My dependable brother, however, spoke up in my stead.

“Thank you very much for extending an invitation to my sister. My sister seldom ventures out on her own, so I have come with her. My name is Nicol. I am Sophia’s elder brother.”

As if shaken awake by my brother’s words, Katarina promptly offered her own response. “No, the pleasure is all mine. Thank you for coming. I am Katarina Claes.”

Thank you for coming...? So this isn’t some prank or joke? Is it... really all right for me to be here?

“Nicol Ascart, elder brother of Sophia Ascart. Pleased to make your acquaintance,” my brother said, once again stating his name.

For some reason, Katarina froze for a moment, not moving in the slightest. I wonder what’s wrong...

I called out to her, worried about her strange state. “...Um. Lady Katarina...?”

“Ah, Lady Sophia. I do apologize. It is nice to meet you again, truly! If you would like, I would be glad to continue our previous conversation...”

And with that, Katarina invited us to a table seemingly prepared for the occasion, with tea, snacks, and all.

While I felt very uneasy at first, that unpleasant feeling slowly faded as I started speaking with Katarina. It was the first time I had ever been able to speak with someone else about the books I loved. Time passed as if it were a dream.

And just like a dream, it was fleeting — before I knew it, the sun was setting. One of our servants leaned in, informing me that it was time for the dream to end... that we had to return.

I stood up, ready to go — and it was then that Katarina called out to me. “What beautiful hair you have... would you mind if I ran my fingers through it, just ever so slightly?”

“...Eh?!” I could only stare blankly, my features frozen in confusion. What is she talking about...? There’s no way this disgusting white hair of mine could be beautiful...

Before I could stop myself, I asked the question I had always wanted to ask. It was that nagging suspicion I’d had in my mind ever since I met her: “...Are you not disgusted by my appearance, Lady Katarina?”

Those looks that were leveled at me as I ventured to the outside world, and the whispers in the shadows, speaking of how repulsive my appearance was...

“...Does it not disgust you, Lady Katarina? This... white hair of mine, only seen in the elderly... these blood-red eyes. Everyone calls me a disgusting, cursed child...”

There was not a single part of me that could be beautiful in any way. I was nothing more than a disgusting thing to be avoided, something for others to avert their gazes from. Nothing more...

“...Cursed? Whatever do you mean...?” Katarina said, stuttering in her confusion.

“...Malicious rumors. From certain individuals who are jealous of our father’s — our family’s achievements. Such jealousy causes them to spread these baseless accusations.” My brother’s voice echoed coldly through the room. My gentle brother, my family — once again protecting me from the world... like always...

“...Even so. It does little to change the fact that my appearance is disgusting and revolting.”

There was no shortage of heartless statements directed at my strange appearance. It had always been this way. Why was I born like this...? I wish I had been born beautiful... just like Sophia from my favorite story.

“...Well, I personally think you’re very pretty...” Katarina said.

Pretty? What is she talking about...? I stared straight at her.

“I think that your silky white hair is beautiful. That your ruby-red, sparkling eyes are beautiful. That... you... are beautiful,” Katarina said, smiling at me as she did so.

Silky white hair... ruby-red, sparkling eyes. Are these truly words that could be used to describe one such as myself? It’s... unbelievable... those words are unbelievable.

Her aqua-blue eyes, however, did not speak of lies as they stared into mine. Katarina... like a hero of justice, she came to my rescue at the tea party. A girl just like Princess Emerald from my favorite story.

“Actually, I would be most pleased if you would come and visit again! And if you don’t mind... would you like to be my friend?” Katarina said, her hands reaching out towards me.

“One day, someone who understands you will appear, Sophia. And you will be great friends.”

I had never once nodded when any member of my beloved family had told me this. It was, after all, impossible... I’d thought that no one like that could ever exist.

I, who had been treated like an outcast, who was always regarded with strange, fearful gazes. To think that anyone would ask for me to become friends with them...

I slowly took Katarina’s hands in my own shivering palms. She held my hands tightly, smiling gently as she held onto them.

Is this a dream...? I could no longer tell as I sat in the horse carriage, still stunned from the events.

My brother, however, smiled at me — a smile that I did not often see. “I am glad that you have made a friend.”

A friend... I’d thought that it would be impossible for one such as myself. That was why I had remained holed up in my room, with nothing but my imagination and daydreams for company. In reality... I had wanted, desired, a friend. For the longest time... that was all I ever wanted.

I recalled the warmth of Katarina’s hands and the happy smile on her face. I had always wanted someone like that... but then, I had given up. And now, I held that very thing... tight in my hands.

From then on, we continued our visits to the Claes manor — and in doing so got to know some of Katarina’s other friends, including her brother and the two crown princes.

Before I knew it, my previously cramped and isolated world had expanded — almost impossibly, in the blink of an eye. Mary, another friend of Katarina’s, said this to me:

“A while ago... I hated myself. I hated these hair and eyes of mine — that they were this shade of burnt sienna.”

I was surprised. Mary was much like Katarina — a noble lady of certain means... and yet, she hated herself...? Look at her beautiful hair, her stunning eyes! I couldn’t believe what I was hearing.

“But... when Lady Katarina told me that I was lovable, that I was cute, and that she liked me for who I was... I found that I could no longer hate myself. I found that I loved my hair, my eyes... And so, Lady Sophia, I think that you will be quite all right as well,” Mary said, looking at me earnestly as she did so.

All the individuals gathered in this manor, Mary included, did not think of me as disgusting or revolting. Katarina herself said as such — that my hair and my eyes were beautiful, wonderful things.

All the people I had met up until now thought that I was disgusting... but Katarina was different. Her heartfelt praise made this clear.

Will I one day come to love myself, like Mary has...? Will a day ever come where I will be able to accept this strange appearance of mine?

The future was still a mystery to me. Even so, I now felt that such a day could eventually come to pass.

“Thank you very much,” I said gratefully to Mary.

Mary, however, smiled brazenly, much like how Katarina did. “Just so you know... I have no intentions of handing Lady Katarina over.”

I once thought that reading alone in my room was the best thing I could ever do. I never knew that I would find something so much more amazing... in this wondrous world that I had suddenly been thrust into.

★★★★★★★★★

As summer reached its end, the world was now colored in the beginnings of autumn. Several weeks had passed since Sophia and her brother, Nicol, first visited me at my abode.

With the addition of Sophia, even Mary got interested, and the three of us were collectively swept up in a romance novel boom. Thanks to Sophia’s bibliophilic nature and encyclopedic knowledge, the genres covered in our meetings greatly expanded in scope.

On another note, the current romance novel I was infatuated with was quite something else — a story about a devilishly dashing count and his romance with a younger girl.

The Count was so incredibly breathtaking that he charmed both men and women alike — but he instead falls in love with a normal girl living in a small town. It was a sweet story of love and romance.

I had, of course, started reading this novel under Sophia’s recommendation. The Count in question was an incredibly beautiful youth, with jet-black hair and eyes.

“Actually... I noticed that the Count looked like my brother, and so I ended up liking this series...” was what Sophia told me, albeit in whispers.

“My opinion may be biased... he is my brother, after all...” So said Sophia, seemingly embarrassed at the notion. The more I read this novel, however, the more I noticed the similarities.

Although Jeord, Keith, and Alan were all handsome in their own right, Sophia’s brother, Nicol, was quite... different, in his aura and charms. His doll-like features, smooth, black hair... and then there were those eyes of his that had a mysterious ability to draw one deeper and deeper into his gaze.

If he continued to age in this fashion, I could definitely see him becoming that very same alluring Count in my novel, bewitching both men and women alike.

However, there were still too many unknowns with regards to Sophia’s brother, Nicol. Come to think of it, it was written in Fortune Lover’s manual that Nicol had the most common sense amongst the rest of the game’s potential romantic interests.

In addition, he was also the older brother of one of my beloved friends... I wanted to get along with him very much. However, Nicol was a man of few words. When he did speak, the conversation would often end in one or two phrases.

Due to the fact that my surroundings were often busy and bustling, the naturally quiet Nicol hardly had a chance to speak with me much, if at all. Be as it may, his actions communicated his love for Sophia, and he even put up with all our antics — Nicol was a very good brother indeed.

It was not difficult to understand why Sophia would look up to such a brother. In fact, if the rumors were to be believed, Nicol excelled in both academics and the sword — a high-spec character, just like Jeord and Alan.

If the opportunity comes to pass, I really want to speak more with Nicol... Not long after I had this thought, said opportunity presented itself to me.

“If you would like... we could have a reading session at my humble abode...”

Day after day, I had pestered Sophia about her books, as I really wanted to see them! So she eventually invited me over. I couldn’t help but feel that I had coerced her into doing it, maybe just a little...

“Really?! Can I really come?!” I exclaimed, jumping up and down for joy.

Sophia simply smiled at me, while Anne’s eyebrows furrowed, occasionally twitching. “Madam would be most displeased to see you behave as such, Young Miss...”

And so it came to be that I paid the Ascarts a visit at their home. Although I was mainly there to go through Sophia’s books and talk about novels, I also hoped to speak with Nicol.

It was important to get to know him a little better, especially with how Sophia looked up to him. Steeling myself, I made up my mind to get more than two phrases out of Nicol on this visit.

Eventually, the promised day came to pass. Eager to get my hands on Sophia’s prized collection, I hopped on the horse carriage bound for the Ascart family home. Naturally Keith was with me as well, on account of me supposedly being the spoiled and socially inept daughter of the Claes family.

Mother was worried as usual, giving me yet another warning as I left. “Do be careful, Katarina. And please, do not embarrass yourself.”

How very like mother to say such a thing! I had been to many tea parties now, and even visited Mary’s manor several times. We were close. There were no problems, of course. Why would there be?

Having finally arrived at the Ascart home with Keith, I found it not as big as the Claes manor, but it was clean, well-organized, and decorated in good taste. We were led by the servants to what seemed to be a reception area with tea and other offerings.

Just as we were about to settle in, a couple entered the room: a most handsome man, with an elegant and dignified lady by his side. They seemed to be about the same age as my parents.

I was expecting my friend Sophia, not this impossibly beautiful couple. This sudden development stunned me, and for a while I stared at them in awe.

So... who exactly are these beautiful people? Just as that thought crossed my mind, the man turned to me, smiling brightly.

“A pleasure to meet you. I am Nicol and Sophia’s father, Dan Ascart. This is my wife, Radia.”

“Radia Ascart. A pleasure.”

Having delivered their greetings, they both smiled gently, welcoming me into their household.

What?! These are Sophia and Nicol’s parents?! As expected, they were formidably beautiful individuals.

If this was the case... this must be the very sample same capable man who had taken on the position of chancellor, directly serving the king himself. The rumored royal chancellor.

I turned to Madam Ascart to see that gentle smile still illuminating her features. Just like Nicol, Count Ascart had black hair. Madam Ascart was impressive as well, with her pale, golden-blonde hair and blue eyes. If I didn’t know any better, I would have assumed they were characters straight out of a fairy tale. As expected of Sophia and Nicol’s parents.

Still stunned by their fairy-tale radiance, I continued staring at them both, mouth agape, until Keith gave my hand a slight push.

“Big Sister... your greetings...” Keith whispered.

That’s right! In these circumstances... right, a noble lady’s socially acceptable greeting...

“...The pleasure is mine. I am Katarina Claes. Thank you very much for inviting me here on this day.”

“I am her younger brother, Keith Claes. We are in your care.”

As soon as I had delivered my elegant greeting befitting of a young noble lady, Keith followed up with his own.

Yes. We did our introductions correctly. But what are Sophia’s parents doing here? My confusion was perhaps apparent on my face.

“We had thought to greet you first — Sophia and her brother have not been informed yet, you see. She is probably fidgeting up there in her room, waiting for you as we speak.” Count Ascart provided a quick answer to my unspoken question.

“Is that so...” While I now knew why Sophia’s parents were here, this was the first time someone else’s parents had come in person to greet me. I couldn’t help but feel nervous.

While I had been to Mary’s abode several times, her father was often busy, and as such was often not at home. In fact, I had not seen him ever since that very first tea party I attended.

Going to a friend’s home to play was nothing new to me — but having their parents show up to greet me was. Nervous, I clammed up, standing stiff like a board. Madam Ascart, however, elegantly and slowly approached me.

“I have heard many things about you from my daughter, Lady Katarina. Ever since she met you, Sophia has been so happy... Thank you very much,” she said, before holding out a hand.

Now that I could see her up close, she really was quite the beauty. Her features also resembled that of Sophia’s... or was it the other way around? Reaching out nervously, I took her outstretched hand in mine.

“I am most grateful as well. I greatly enjoy speaking with Lady Sophia. I would be glad if we could continue getting along from here on out.”

In truth, I had been able to live this fulfilling romance novel life of mine largely thanks to Sophia. If I had not met her, my life would not have been enriched with these wonderful stories. Of course I would want to continue being friends with her.

Upon hearing my words, Madam Ascart, who really did look like Sophia, squeezed my hand somewhat tightly. “I am really, really glad... that Sophia has a wonderful friend like you.”

And with that, Madam Ascart and the Count both bowed their heads. “I would like to thank you too. Lady Katarina Claes... thank you. Truly.”

“Eh...? Ah, yes, thank you too, yes...” My nervousness peaked — to think that this beautiful couple would bow to me, of all people! I was now flustered, panicked. I had wanted to part ways with a dignified greeting, but with this, all of my efforts were wasted!

Even so, both Count and Madam Ascart simply continued smiling at me warmly, paying no heed to my panicked flustering. What gentle, kind parents!

And with that same welcoming smile, they left the room, telling that they would soon fetch Sophia. Even their exit was a thing of beauty. I couldn’t help but sigh as my eyes followed them out of the reception room.

...How could anyone not be nervous in their presence? Well... in any case, I suppose it’s a good thing that I’ve been welcomed into their household.

Perhaps it was more difficult for me to leave a good impression, as opposed to, say, a normal person. This villainess face of mine was to blame. Any attempts to smile elegantly may become a villainous, or even an evil smile instead. The possibility of such a thing happening was high.

In fact, that was exactly what happened during that tea party at the castle when those children all scattered as I descended from the tree. One look was all it took! What a sad memory...

Once the Ascart couple were out of earshot, I leaned in, whispering to Keith. “What beautiful, gentle parents Sophia has!”

“It is as you say, Big Sister,” Keith agreed, smiling as he did so.

“If only mother were like Madam Ascart! She should be a little calmer, don’t you think? All that frowning and getting mad does no favors for her appearance...”

“...Big Sister. I, too, think that mother would very much like to live peacefully...” Keith said, looking at me with a strangely sad gaze as I complained about how our mother was not at all like the kind and beautiful Madam Ascart.

What does he mean? I stared at Keith, a blank look at my face. My brother, however, merely sighed in response.

At that very moment, Sophia entered the room. Following close behind her was Nicol, as expected. Sophia’s breaths were somewhat irregular, and her cheeks were flushed with a slight tinge of red. On the other hand, Nicol, who had probably traveled at the same speed, hardly seemed winded at all.

“Welcome, Lady Katarina!” Sophia said, with her flushed cheeks and slight smile. Ah, Sophia. Cute as always.

As usual I had a lot of fun talking with Sophia, as well as looking through the Ascart family’s study with its amazing collection of books and tomes. Amongst them were many stories that Sophia had read. It was truly a delight for me to go through them.

Things were different, however, due to the fact that Keith’s presence meant that Nicol was not as isolated as he was before. Now presented with a boy around his age, even the infamously silent Nicol would have a few things to say. While they were not as vocal as Sophia and me, a few glimpses revealed that they did have some conversation amongst themselves.

Enjoyable time passes all but too quickly. Although my academic and etiquette lessons felt like an eternity, the time I spent with Sophia seemed to pass in an instant, as if time itself had sped up. While there were still many things I had wanted to do, staying too late would infuriate Mother, who had instructed me to not inconvenience my hosts.

Hugging books that I had borrowed from Sophia close to my chest, Keith and I packed up, getting ready for the journey home. It happened as we were about to say farewell to the Ascart siblings.

“Oh no! I left the book I’d recommended to you in my room, Katarina...” Sophia exclaimed, a little more shocked than she should be.

“Ah, that book we were talking about just now, right?” It was, as Sophia said, the top book in her recommendations list. She had spoken of it passionately in the study — and perhaps in her passion had forgotten to take the book with her as she saw us off.

“Yes, that book. I apologize... I will go fetch it right away.”

“It’s quite all right, Sophia. Maybe I can borrow it next time?”

Sophia seemed ready to dash off back into the study at any moment. “No, it really is an amazing book... I do hope that you can read it as soon as possible...! Please, it will just be a moment.”

Saying so, Sophia turned, rushing off in the direction of the study. Noble ladies in dress did not do much in the way of running, of course, but she did set off at quite the pace.

Seeing Sophia take off like that reminded me of a friend in my previous life, Acchan. If Sophia had known me back then, we would surely have read manga together, watched anime, and maybe even played some otome games. Ahh... I have really great friends.

As I saw Sophia off, Nicol, who had been silent up until now, suddenly turned to me. “Lady Katarina Claes. Allow me to thank you once again for being friends with Sophia. I am grateful from the bottom of my heart.”

Come to think of it, I did want to speak with Nicol today... That thought was all but forgotten as I lost myself in the Ascart family’s study, however, buried amongst talk of books and novels with Sophia.

But now... this is a good chance! With this, I would be able to speak a little with Nicol.

“No, the pleasure is all mine... In fact, I am grateful that Lady Sophia would be friends with someone like me. Actually... your parents both said the same thing...”

“My... parents?”

It was then that I realized I had forgotten to tell Nicol and Sophia about our short meeting with their parents.

“Yes, they took the trouble to personally show up at the reception room prior to your arrival. They are truly wonderful parents.”

“...Is that so. Thank you, Lady Katarina,” Nicol said expressionlessly. And with that, the conversation was over.

While this was the longest conversation I had ever had with Nicol Ascart, this was also hardly a conversation at all! What exactly did Keith say, for Nicol to have responded to him as much as he did?

I would like some of Keith’s conversational talent. Maybe just a little bit of it. Or is it because they’re both boys? In any case, I have to see if the conversation can be revived...

I need some sort of topic... Yes! Maybe this is it! This is the place to utilize all my knowledge from my past life! I’ll show him all of my seventeen years of wisdom! I’m not willing to lose to Keith any longer.

Something... something to continue the conversation. I racked my mind and plumbed my memories. And then... Oh wait. What about that granny next door who would talk to me for thirty minutes or more whenever she caught me?

That’s it!! That’s the thing! That neighbor of mine was a conversational expert, with the power to prolong the most mundane of conversations. Now is the time to channel her power...!

Yes, in fact, there was that one phrase that she was so fond of using, over and over again...

“You really are blessed, Master Nicol, to have such amazing parents, and a cute younger sister.” I followed up on my statement with a full-faced smile, just like that old lady had done.

That granny would change up her phrase when faced with a different member of our family. For instance, she would tell my father what a lucky man he was, to have married such a beautiful bride. Once this phrase had been uttered, my father was as good as gone for the next thirty or so minutes.

Yes. A complete reproduction of that talkative granny’s words. However...

“...Blessed...?” For some reason, Nicol’s demeanor suddenly changed completely.

“Eh? Um...”

“...Do you truly think... that I am blessed?”

Although Nicol’s face was still as expressionless as ever, something about it was... different. This sudden change in him scared me. No, it terrified me.

I’ve really done it now, haven’t I? I had somehow selected the wrong phrases, the wrong words...

“I do think that you have a wonderful family... um. Was I perhaps... mistaken in any... way?” I stuttered, delivering my words slowly and apprehensively.

Nicol stared into me with those black eyes of his — so intense was his gaze that I could feel holes boring through my being. Holes! And then...

“...No. No, Lady Katarina. You are not mistaken at all. I have two respectable, wonderful parents, and a gentle, cute younger sister. Yes... I am truly blessed,” Nicol said, as if pleased. And then... he smiled.

I had known Nicol for a few weeks now, but never once had I seen him smile. I had heard from Sophia that her brother did not, in fact, usually smile very much at all.

But Nicol was now... smiling. Smiling, like as if he were truly happy. Although he was already beautiful in his own right, that heartfelt smile on his face seemed to amplify that beauty several times over.

It was as if the alluring Count himself — that very same one from the novel I liked, had appeared before me, bewitching smile and all. To think that Nicol was really the alluring Count all this time...

Predictably, I clammed up, frozen solid. It was Sophia who freed me from the Count’s curse — hugging the book that she had brought like it was some sort of treasure. “Lady Katarina... here. This book!”

I had finally broken free of the Count’s spell, all thanks to the cute book-hugging Sophia. Turning my head slightly, I saw Keith, who was also rooted to the spot. Nicol, on the other hand, had gone back to his usual emotionless self.

This is bad! My lovable adoptive brother has been charmed by the alluring count’s power! Although I don’t want Keith to fall in love with the protagonist, him falling for another boy is a little too dangerous! If this goes on, my treasured adoptive brother may go astray!

After gratefully accepting the book from Sophia, I strategically positioned myself between Keith and Nicol all the way to the horse carriage. We waved our goodbyes and boarded, and soon left the Ascart family home behind. And on the way back...

“...To think that Nicol really was the alluring Count himself all this time... will I be able to protect Keith from his clutches from here on out...?”

“...To think that yet another rival would surface... just how many temptations must she be showered with...?”

Both Keith and I stared out of our respective windows, each muttering something inaudible to ourselves.

★★★★★★★★★

I am the oldest son of the Count Ascart’s family — Nicol Ascart. My father took me to the castle many times in my youth, owing to the fact that he was the royal chancellor. As a result, I had many opportunities to mingle with the princes of this kingdom — especially the two twin princes, who were a year younger than me.

It was about a year prior when these two princes, whom I had known from childhood, began to change.

Jeord, the third crown prince, and his incessantly perfect, fake smile. His eyes only spoke of boredom; nothing was reflected in them. Jeord, however, said that he had found “something most interesting”... and then, he smiled. It was a smile most dissimilar to the one he was fond of showing the world. And with time, Jeord changed, slowly but surely. His false smile slowly disappeared, and in its place was a sparkling vigor.

And then there was Jeord’s brother — the fourth crown prince, Alan. Alan often compared himself to Jeord and resisted him at every turn. His desperation seemed to only bring him pain.

Even Alan, however, started to change with time. As if a great weight had been lifted off his shoulders, Alan stopped resisting Jeord. Instead, he started putting effort into furthering his musical talents — which was where his interests originally lay. His talent was formidable, and almost overnight, people were lauding him as a prodigy of music.

However, the most marked change of all was the fact that Alan would now speak normally with Jeord, whom he used to despise. Those in the castle were surprised, bewildered even, by this. They found it strange that Alan’s attitude towards Jeord, which had always been one of defiance and resistance, would change.

In fact, the changes went beyond the two just speaking normally with each other. They even started leaving the castle grounds together. As of late, they had even been seen speaking cordially within the castle grounds. A truly theatrical change.

The reason for this profound change remained a mystery to most, however. The rumors, when they eventually came, spoke of a place they were known to frequent — the Claes manor, home to Duke Claes and his family. Something or someone, was the reason why such a change had come over the two princes...

It was a day after the tea party at the royal castle that we made our way to the rumored Claes manor. My sister, who had attended this party with me, had apparently received a formal invitation from the eldest daughter of the Claes family, Lady Katarina Claes.

My sister, Sophia Ascart, is a gentle and lovable girl. A noble lady of good standing in her own right. Sophia does stand out, however, with her porcelain-white hair and red eyes.

And because of this fact — because Sophia was a little different, she was exposed to the cruel whims of society. They would look upon her strangely as she walked, and those jealous of our family’s achievements claimed that she was a “cursed child.”

Even more cruel were the foolish children who took those words literally. With their heartless gazes and words, these people hurt Sophia. She eventually cooped herself up in her room, no longer willing to face the world. For a few years, Sophia remained that way — closed to the outside world...

Until the day where those two princes held a tea party at the royal castle, which we both attended. Sophia did not seem too enthusiastic about going, and neither was I.

The two princes had met with Sophia several times before. I had no doubt that they would not cast discriminatory looks upon her, nor consider themselves above her. The party, however, was large in scale — as fitting of one held by the twin princes.

The children, young lords and ladies of many noble families, would also be in attendance. There would surely be some amongst them who would shun and bemoan Sophia’s presence, thinking themselves superior. I did not wish for Sophia to go to such a place, but my father convinced us otherwise.

“Both you and Sophia have magic within. At the age of fifteen, you will both have to attend the Academy of Magic. Remember that you and Sophia are different in both gender and age, so you will not be always able to stay by her side and protect her. Sophia has to learn how to protect herself. With that many children gathered, I am sure that she will even make some friends.”

We, the Ascart siblings, did have magic in our veins, and all those who did had to enroll at the academy once they come of age, as per the laws of this land. In four years, I would do the same... and in another year, Sophia would have to follow suit.

I wanted to stay by her side as long as possible. I wanted to protect my precious sister. However, given our differences in age and gender, there was no way I could always watch over her.

Before Sophia had shut herself in, my parents did take her along on similar outings — to make friends, they said. Children, however, were exceptionally sensitive to those who were... different, from themselves. In the end, all those efforts ended up hurting Sophia.

I understood that this could not possibly go on. However... the prospect, the very thought of seeing Sophia cry once more was infinitely more terrifying to me.

At the tea party, I was separated from my sister, despite my efforts. I was truly pathetic. How could I think of protecting Sophia like this? Many of those terrible noble children, the very same ones that had hurt Sophia before, were also present at this party. Surely they would hurt her again, now that I was separated from her. There was no doubt about it. With this thought in mind, I could hardly calm myself.

And so I desperately searched for my sister, to no avail. It was only at the end of the party that I had finally found her. Sophia, however, was simply standing still with a blank expression on her face.

“What have they done to you? Who was it?” I asked, worried.

“Someone by the name of Lady Katarina Claes... has invited me to visit her manor,” Sophia muttered, that same expression still plastered across her features.

And so the two of us headed to the rumored Claes manor. Honestly speaking, I wasn’t too enthusiastic about this turn of events — if only because Sophia had received many similar invitations before... only for them to spurn her and turn her away at the gates.

Worry clouded my mind. I had little choice but to approach Jeord, Katarina’s fiancé — about Katarina herself. I referred to how she had been kind to Sophia at the party and had invited my sister to her manor.

“You seem to have changed recently. A little more... restrained. Were you simply playing with yet another noble lady...?”

“...?” For a while, Jeord muttered to himself, before finally looking up at me, with a seemingly all-knowing smile. “Nicol. I will admit, Katarina is... strange. Different. She would not, however, hurt your most beloved sister.”

Trusting in Jeord’s words, but yet still concerned for Sophia, I ended up following her to the Claes family manor.

“I think that your silky white hair is beautiful. That your ruby-red, sparkling eyes are beautiful. That... you... are beautiful,” Katarina Claes said, smiling at Sophia as she did so.

“Actually, I would be most pleased if you would come and visit again! And if you don’t mind... would you like to be my friend?”

Those were the girl’s words. She was gently smiling as she held Sophia’s hands in hers. It was as Jeord had said. There was no way this girl would hurt my precious sister.

As I stared at Katarina’s gentle smile, I finally noticed it. She was the one. She was the reason why those changes had come over Jeord and Alan.

A unique atmosphere... a most mysterious girl. The twin princes visited this manor just to meet her. And just like those before her, Sophia changed after meeting Katarina Claes.

Before, she had never wanted to take a single step outside her room. Now she clamored to be let out every single day. A light had illuminated her pained, dark features. A light from within — and a smile had returned to her face. I was deeply, deeply... grateful... towards Katarina Claes.

With Sophia’s increasing amount of outings, however, came the whispered rumors and insults in the shadows. I was not about to stand by and see my now-smiling sister return to her dark, lonely room.

I applied the appropriate kinds of... pressure on those who would dare speak ill of Sophia. I silenced the voices in the shadows. I suppose I had not been forceful enough before. I renewed my efforts, and with that, the whispers eventually faded.

Even so, as these gossip-mongers eventually disappeared...

“Master Nicol is most unfortunate, having to do all that just for that sister of his!”

“Master Nicol is most capable... but those rumors! All because of his sister! What a pity...”

“How very unfortunate. That Ascart boy... to have so many things said about him behind his back.”

The condemnations, gossip, disdain, had all but ceased. In their place was... pity. Empathy, perhaps? The harder I worked to protect Sophia, the louder the voices became.

They were not hostile voices, not by any means. They merely pitied me — pitied me for having to do all this. They spoke of how unfortunate I was.

However... those words pierced my heart. Mercilessly. Thoroughly. I was not some victim to be pitied. My family was in no way unfortunate. I had two respectable parents, and a lovable and gentle sister. They were family I could be proud of. If anything, I thought that I was fortunate.

But no one around me understood this. If I claimed to be fortunate, to be happy, they would assume that I was merely putting up with it. Tolerating it.

This infuriated me. I was fortunate. I was blessed. And yet... how could they? How could they simply decide that I was unfortunate, that I was to be pitied?

Don’t you dare think of my precious sister as a source of misfortune! I’ve been nothing but happy ever since Sophia was born...!

In time, I grew tired of these unwanted words, this unsolicited pity. I thought that it was no longer important, even if no one ever understood. My precious sister was now smiling, laughing. And that, to me... was enough.

Even if bystanders pitied me, or thought of me as an unfortunate victim... even if they would never understand me. That, too, was fine. That would do.

“You really are blessed, Master Nicol, to have such amazing parents, and a cute younger sister.” Katarina Claes, the girl in front of me, said with that same gentle smile on her face. It was that exact smile that she had shown to Sophia. A gentle, warm light.

“...Blessed...?”

Yes. Exactly. Just like I had always thought. But... no one would understand me. No one sought to.

“Eh? Um...”

“...Do you truly think... that I am blessed?” I said, staring straight at Katarina.

“I do think that you have a wonderful family... um. Was I perhaps... mistaken in any... way?” And Katarina stared back — her aqua-blue eyes looking into mine.

“...No. No, Lady Katarina. You are not mistaken at all. I have two respectable, wonderful parents, and a gentle, cute younger sister. Yes... I am truly blessed.”

I had thought that no one would ever understand. I had already given up. Even so... this. This girl... Katarina. She understood.

Ah. To think that I had assumed that I was alone, that no one would ever understand these thoughts of mine.

The indignation in my heart slowly started to fade. I gazed upon the girl standing before me once more.

The eldest daughter of Duke Claes, Katarina Claes. A mysterious girl who had changed those twin princes — and the first to understand these thoughts of mine, when I had already long given up on empathy and understanding.

I finally understood why the princes and my sister were so eager to visit the Claes manor. Again and again, day after day. I suppose it was reasonable to assume that I would soon take after them — putting one foot in front of another on the way to the Claes manor. Not just to escort Sophia and to keep her safe — but to meet... Katarina Claes.