《The Duchess of the Attic》


 1 1. Social circles

    That was the opening night of a night club with no weirdness whatsoever.


    The organizer of the night club is Count Holloway.


    The daughter of the Count, Opal, who had just debuted the social world, got a little drunk on people and stepped out into the garden where she knew all about it.


    The garden of the Earl''s Mansion in Wangdu, which I''ve been here many times since I was a little girl, was a playground for my grandmother Opal, so blurry lights are enough.


    But the ballroom night garden becomes something completely different from the day.


    Opal was suddenly held from behind and when he realized he was being pushed down on the lawn and kissed.


    A stuffy feeling falls on your lips and scratches your opponent''s face for too much disgust.


    Opal screamed, groaning away at the man''s gap in the pain.


    There are proper guards in this garden.


    Opal, who knew that, asked for help, but did not think that this noise would be fatal for an unmarried woman.


    At the same time that the guards heard footsteps rushing, the man fled, and only Opal was left on the spot with his dress and tied up hair shattered.


    It wasn''t just the guards who surrounded the stunned Opal, but the many invitees.


    The gaze of the invitees was more full of curiosity than pity.


    I don''t really remember anything from then on.


    So much so that a samurai with an opal rushed in and took me back to my room and bathed me.


    Then I went into bed and fell asleep unsure.


    Because Opal still hadn''t realized what situation he''d been in.


    The next morning, when I woke up, my father told me to come to the study.


    Opal goes to the study without even having breakfast and knocks when he''s in tune.


    There was an immediate response, and Opal, who entered the study, stared at Count Holloway''s grumpy face, his father as he sat in the executive chair.


    "Good morning, Father. I heard you were calling."


    "What are you greeting with swallowing, you. You know what you did last night?


    "Sure, I''m sorry I disturbed you at the ball last night because of you. But nothing. I..."


    "It''s not a question of what happened. The problem is that you were exposed to everyone in that condition."


    Opal shook his shoulders frighteningly at the voice containing his father''s anger.


    Without a word on whether you''re okay, I wouldn''t even try to ask you properly what happened last night.


    As I knew, Opal became defiant when he swelled at his ruthless father.


    "I have done nothing wrong! The bad news is that man!


    "You know the man and the others?


    "I don''t know. And when I went wild and screamed, I ran away."


    I was just going to show my strength, but my father sighed deeply.


    "That was the problem. If you don''t make such a fuss, the world won''t know what you''re doing..."


    "But I would have been worse off if it hadn''t been for the noise."


    "If only we could protect the world''s reputation, we''d have found a better match for our marriage, whether you were hurt or not. But now it will be widespread that you have been injured at an alarming rate. Conditions are already limited when this happens. Nevertheless, I wonder if the lad I visited this morning is out of the question"


    "... Kid?


    I wanted to deny that I hadn''t been hurt yet, but more than that, Opal, who was shocked that he still wasn''t worried about himself at all, also forgot to protest.


    I just care about the last word and ask back.


    "You and the guy I met last night are the lads who have come to name themselves. He wants me to take responsibility and marry him."


    "Did you name yourself after me? You ran away last night? Besides, you attacked me, and you said it was Matse?


    "For that kid, I guess it was a chance to keep you out of the yard fluttering alone. He''s the second son of a poor Viscount. That''s what you made a fuss about, so you escaped. Damn, I was the idiot who invited that kid to the mansion."


    "The poor Viscount..."


    Opal was shrugging and remembering the young man he''d been hanging out with here lately.


    In the first place, Opal had a considerable amount of money, which he turned into the perfect prey for those who heard it from somewhere.


    But Opal''s guard was strong.


    He lost his mother early and was not dealt with by his father, who was obsessed with increasing his assets, and his older brother went to boarding school, where he grew up alone in a consulate on Count''s territory, with no family.


    Of course the servants at the consulate were gentle.


    Still envious to see a close family, I have always dreamed of building a warm home.


    That''s why I wanted to marry someone I could like, and I was looking for someone to like Opal himself, not money.


    There were familiar and friendly opponents in the territory, but unfortunately he was the three sons of the Baron family, and there''s no way my father would forgive me.


    It''s friendship between us in the first place.


    And in the Wang capital, which came out in anticipation, no man has ever been attracted to his heart before in the encounter.


    (No, there was only one person...)


    Opal had remembered a man who had only danced once.


    He is a young duke who has only just graduated from college and seldom shows his face at night clubs, he says.


    Moreover, due to his status as Duke, it is difficult even for the females to have a fierce battle approaching.


    Still, only once when my father introduced me, I was politely invited to dance.


    He was silent, but his hands touching Opal were so gentle, the grin he showed from time to time was still boyish, and I imagined it would surely be fun to spend time with him.


    "Okay, you can''t want good luck anymore, clearly. Still, someone will show up who needs your money. I''ll take care of the person and decide who to marry, so don''t make a scene again until then. You got it?


    - Yes, Father.


    Opal answered softly, but because he was thinking, he hadn''t heard much.


    Was the Count satisfied for a moment or waved one hand, as he told Opal to back off?


    The hungry opal honestly lowered and headed to the breakfast room.


    That night Opal was attending a night club hosted by a certain Marquis.


    So for the first time, I understood what my father was saying.


    The ladies we were close to until yesterday ignore it.


    There are no young people who would have stopped by if Opal had let them into the venue.


    However, I noticed that there were a few men, but if I looked at the clothes slightly, they would not be new this year.


    And even from the women who are considered ladies, keep a secret story to a gaze of contempt directed at Opal.


    A normal warrant lady might have escaped, but the losing opal remained clear and on the spot.


    I didn''t do anything wrong.


    Instead, the man who attacked a weak woman is to blame, but the Viscount''s second son and I are not here.


    Probably because Opal''s sharp nails scratched his face, he can''t get out in public for the time being.


    On the carriage home, an escort woman complained about how ashamed she was, Opal ignored.


    If you don''t want to, you just have to quit.


    Because Opal doesn''t have a mother, nor does her relative have a suitable elderly woman, so she pays to hire one.


    In the end, it seems that the lady in the escort role couldn''t give up her high salary, and since then she has begun to escort Opal to socialize.


    No matter how badly rumored, Opal was always spending his time dignified, but it was still hard to embellish a man for property or a prodigal for play.


    They think that''s familiar again, making the rumors worse and worse.


    Now my friends are completely gone and the number of invitations has decreased.


    As a countess with enormous assets, she was only invited when she had to be formally called.


    And when the season was finally over, Opal caressed his chest down with relief.


    Now I can return to my favorite territory and consulate.


    Shaken by the carriage, Opal thought about what was to come.


    Father is still busy increasing his fortune and has ignored Opal since then.


    My brother doesn''t intend to come back to the territory because he also spends his long college vacation at a friend''s house.


    (In the coming season, I''m sure they all forget about me, don''t they? New scandals are born every day)


    Opal, optimistic, thought so, and still dreamed of marriage and spent time in the Territory as a mistress instead of her deceased mother.


    Of course, while showing off the old lady that if she enjoys horseback riding, she also enjoys climbing trees.


    The neighbors will be hearing rumors, but they treat Opal the same.


    If I went to see how the inhabitants were doing, they respected me and talked to me about the trouble.


    Claude Artray, who is an example childhood familiar, also returned during his long college vacation to accompany him on long rides and fishing trips together.


    Claude is one older than his brother, so he lamented that he still had two more years before he graduated from college, but encouraged that and dropped him off at college again.


    Having had such a full day, Opal was completely rejuvenated and had his next season, but he was reminded that his thoughts were sweet.

 2 2. Social circles

    In the second season since his debut, Opal, who thought it would surely be something fun, had returned to the territory disappointed.


    Instead of going down in flames, Opal had become a perfectly easy-going woman.


    I went out for a morning walk with someone who seemed like this man a few times, or even went out on the balcony alone and tried to kiss him.


    But as in the case of the Viscount''s second son, he refused more than that because he was disgusted, but the men who had hurt his pride spoke of something that never happened.


    Then the man who thought he wasn''t the only one he was dealing with touches further that this was what he was when he was.


    And when he realized, Opal had been affixed with a rettel called Seriously Mundane, which was in unmarried women, and he was quickly finishing his third year of season.


    (Looks like you should give up your marriage now. I''d rather live freely than marry someone I don''t even like and be eaten up for nothing)


    At the end of his eighteen-year-old season, Opal gave up his dream of building a warm family.


    Opal is to have a smaller territory and enough wealth to inherit than her already deceased maternal grandmother, Olga Kenzit, if she turns twenty.


    The condition that this legacy belonged to Opal was unchanged in marriage, and I somehow guessed it in my grandmother''s heart at the time.


    Because my mother told me that my maternal grandfather was very strict and that he was the kind of person who always had the whip.


    When Opal returned to the consulate, he put more effort into studying this year than playing.


    He begged Trevor, the territorial administrator, Orton, the butler, and Marcia, the housekeeper, to teach him, to go around about them, and to learn more about this and how to cut through the territory operations and the mansion.


    Claude came back from college on the way, but opened his mouth quite dissatisfied to see such an opal.


    "Hey, Opal. What are you gonna do with all that studying? It''s supposed to be a man''s job, isn''t it? Instead, you can hire both administrators and butlers, so there''s no need for Opal to study, is there?


    "Alas, you''re also thinking that women should just shut up and do the house thing. I''m disappointed. I''m not getting married anymore, so I''m going to live in the land my grandmother left me when I turn twenty. That''s why I want you to know about the street."


    "How come you''re not going to marry me?


    "Didn''t you hear Claude? My terrible rumors. But you don''t know we''re still friends like this."


    "Fool, you are. That''s what I''m asking. Even a man''s quarters don''t come in with information. But because I''m a friend, I know Opal isn''t such a... such a rumored woman. All the people who live around here do. I''ve known you since you were little."


    "... thanks, Claude"


    Claude''s words seemed delightful and tearful, but Opal managed to contain them.


    Opal doesn''t cry from time to time.


    When I fell out of a tree and broke my arm bones, even when the pony I loved died.


    My mother said it to me.


    ''Don''t cry, my sweetie. Please laugh''.


    So I desperately embraced the tears that flowed down at that time and made him laugh with his snotty face.


    Then my mother slowly lifted her cheeks and laughed back.


    I shouldn''t have had that much power left either.


    That''s why Opal had decided not to cry more than that day when he was ten.


    If you''re eating your teeth off and laughing forward, they''ll all laugh back one day.


    In fact, everyone in the realm laughs back.


    I don''t care what people in the social world say.


    When the coming season was over, Opal was going to move into the house my grandmother left me.


    I still have nearly two years until I''m twenty, but I won''t have a choice because I''ve had three social seasons and can''t even find someone to marry.


    The Heritage Trustee was a very sweet man, and he either knew about the Opal rumors or accepted this suggestion.


    On the condition, of course, that I leave the management of the land to the administrator of my choice for a few years, as always.


    Because of that, Opal''s heart was light for his fourth season.


    Again this time, I can laugh at being surrounded by just conceited men called prodigals, men for property, and ladies who only make nasty rumors.


    It had been a long time since I had danced only once, and I had eyes on the duke I was attracted to, but I was fine when I was stared at.


    Since that incident with him, he has been ignored without even being greeted face-to-face.


    Like it''s not worth talking about.


    It''s rude, but the Duke is in a position to allow it.


    By the end of the season in a few days, Opal had packed early.


    Once we get back to the consulate, we move to the little house my new grandmother left us.


    Everyone at the consulate was lonely because they had told him that before he came out to the king''s capital, but he included saying that if he had a day in the carriage, he would be back.


    All you have to do is attend a small concert held at a certain Viscount''s house, and the Opal season ends.


    Opal looked out at the other dresses he chose for tonight and lined up in the closet.


    It''s all I don''t need at the end of this season, and I''m going to leave it in this mansion.


    I''ve already packed it in my bag because I''ll still need some quiet design stuff.


    - It''s finally over.


    Yes, when Opal thought about it, the butler came to the room.


    "My husband is waiting for you in his study"


    "Your father?


    "Yes, I told you to come soon."


    "... ok"


    It wasn''t until the morning after that incident that I was summoned to my father''s study.


    I''ve been left alone ever since, so I thought Opal didn''t really care, but I have a bad feeling he''s called in again like this.


    Still unable to escape, and of course not intending to, Opal stood in front of the study with dignity and knocked on the door.


    "Get in."


    With nothing to do, Opal, who was allowed to enter the room, gently opened the door and stepped into the study.


    As usual, his father''s desk is stacked with documents in a mess, and his busy schedule can be seen.


    And despite his call, his father was spelling out some paperwork without even raising his face.


    "Father, what can I do for you?


    Without waiting, Opal inquired, his father looked up in displeasure.


    And I sigh loudly, putting down the fountain pen I had.


    "It''s nothing ladylike, it''s not something my husband opens his mouth until he says something first. It''s also my fault that I couldn''t do it properly. Looks like I let you go too free, Opal."


    "I''m sorry, Father. But get ready for tonight."


    "Shut up."


    Fathers don''t yell, but they don''t listen to their families.


    Opal hated that very much.


    Opal wondered if his brother wouldn''t come home from college because he didn''t want to look at this father.


    In a fed up mood, Opal mumbled his apologetic words.


    My father laughs at me as soon as he gets in a good mood.


    I convinced Opal that the smile was still hitting a bad feeling.


    "Opal, joy. Your marriage has finally been decided."


    "... Yes?


    "That''s pretty good too. It was worth the wait for three years. Without that commotion, we would have been able to put it together three years ago. It''s a fringe. I don''t know how much you''re hurt, but I didn''t mean to do you to that kid or that wealth-seeking piece of crap."


    "Father, marriage, etc. I..."


    "Already, I have a contract with the other party. Earlier, I was contacted that I also got a marriage permit. The day after tomorrow, you will have a ceremony."


    Opal could not contest that it had already become final.


    I get busy working my head off, but soon I realize that there''s nothing I can do to make an opal who doesn''t turn twenty to escape this marriage.


    Until now, his father had set Opal free because he was after that superb.


    For three years, Opal''s father would have waited until he could get into that opponent''s weakness.


    What the hell kind of terrible person is he?


    Hurt by what was said to be an injury again, he wondered if divorce would be possible at the age of twenty.


    So, uh, I wonder if I have to give that disgusting kiss.


    "Father, so... what are you dealing with?


    "Did you finally ask? If you ask me your name, you might thank this father. Hubert McCloud will be your bridegroom. The Duke of McCloud."


    "... McCloud, Duke?


    Opal, who heard his name, was dizzy and about to fall.


    The Duke of McCloud is the opponent who danced only once three years ago.


    Opal was the only one attracted to me, ignored me after the incident, and was the only one who was scorned the other day.


    "Why... more so than the Duke...?


    "The Duke of McCloud lost his parents early and succeeded to the Duke position young. It is inexperienced and too sweet. Three years ago, something could still have been done. I guess I just couldn''t get help from the high pride around me. Now he''s losing his neck because of debt. So instead of selling my ancestral lands, I decided to sell myself."


    "... Did the Duke agree to marry me for debt?


    "Oh, it took me a lot of patience just watching him fall so far without doing anything. But it''s important to wait to invest."


    "Investment��"


    "Think about it. It''s the Duke, right? As the stepfather of the Duke, as the outgoing grandfather of the future Duke, I broaden the scope of my work. Look, Opal. Until now, I let you go free, but from now on, be careful. And work with the Duke on the problem. That''ll be interesting again, too."


    It is also uncertain whether he replied to his father''s words.


    It was just that Opal, when he left the study fluttered and went back to his room, was flabbergasted until the samurai spoke to him.

 3 3. marriage

    Until the ceremony three days later, Opal did not even face the Duke.


    This fringe caused a devastating earthquake in the social world, but rumors aroused various speculations about Opal stirring up the young Duke, who is already pregnant, who seems to be struggling to maintain a vast territory, who still needs assets, etc.


    Even a young duke, Hubert is seven years older than Opal.


    Even though Opal was almost nineteen years old, Opal grinned at rumors told by the samurai, wondering how to stifle a twenty-six-year-old man.


    But to maintain a vast territory is not a mistake, though.


    Apparently, the Duke hides the debt thing well.


    Again, any marriage decided for any reason, Opal coming to the ceremony was trembling with tension.


    I wonder how the hell Hubert felt accepting this marriage.


    Apparently I can pay off all my debts with Opal''s bribes, and since my father gave me a lot of cash as a wedding celebration again, am I thankful that I - the Duke''s family - was saved?


    He doesn''t seem to be in the mood because of Opal''s reputation.


    In fact, there were no flowers or anything as a pre-nuptial gift, so I''m probably sure.


    Still, one of the samurai said that Opal''s stigma would snow if we had our first night, so maybe it''s okay.


    He must be a sweet man.


    I''m just curious about the words my father told me yesterday.


    "McCloud seems to surround his mistress, but what his wife wants, one or both of his mistresses, is a big deal"


    At first it was a shocked opal, but I managed to think calmly over the last three years because the impudent men had told me things I didn''t even want to know.


    I guess a single man would have no choice.


    But will he surround his mistress even if he marries?


    That may be when you are judged inferior as a wife.


    The more I thought about it, the more Opal got scared of this marriage, but the church music began to sound and by encouraging the bride to enter, I decided I couldn''t run anymore.


    The face of the father walking next door is fun.


    Opal shifted his gaze from his neighbour''s father to the front.


    The groom waiting in front of the altar keeps his back turned and doesn''t even try to look back.


    The appearance disturbed the marriage that was about to begin, but Opal squeezed his temper and moved his legs forward.


    When I finally stood next to the groom, I was lightly out of breath and my fingertips were completely cold.


    The groom doesn''t even try to gaze at such an opal.


    The attending seat faintly obsesses the unusual sight.


    Hubert, the groom. It is just a hopeful and rather qualitative ceremony, with only a few relatives of each other in the row.


    Neither Opal nor Hubert had invited any friends as one.


    The two of us stated the words of the oath as they stood, signed the oath and the ceremony ended.


    If it were meant to be, then there would be a celebratory seat - something where a reception would be set up, but without even that, the attendees would leave with a leak of dissatisfaction.


    No matter how many relatives, I wonder if this odd wedding will be another rumor.


    "Um..."


    "I''m not in the mood to celebrate, so you don''t need a seat to celebrate, do you?


    Opal''s words, which he wanted to ask what he would do after this, were blocked by his cold voice.


    And for the first time today - the first time in three years, to be exact, Hubert''s voice is the word now.


    Disappointed Opal pulled back without saying anything.


    Then I can put him in the carriage at the Duke''s house.


    The luggage that was supposed to be transported to the house my grandmother left for me had already been transported to the Duke''s house in King''s Capital.


    Apparently, outside of the season, the Duke has spent years in the King''s Capital without ever returning to his territory.


    Opal, in his carriage, gently stroked the bilload of seats that he apparently had just recently replaced.


    Then he snorts like Hubert sitting across the street making a fool of himself.


    "Have you been satisfied knowing how your money was spent?


    "Mine, money?


    "With your money, the seat was replaced. I''ve repaired some of the other mansions, and I''ve made sure your room is satisfactory."


    "... thank you"


    Opal thanked me, knowing that he had set up a room or carriage to welcome himself, though not bluffing.


    But it didn''t seem to convey that feeling.


    Hubert just flaunted his face.


    "You don''t need to thank me. I''m a man bought by you parents and kids for money, so it''s natural to do what I can for you. But there are things I can''t do. I want you to know that now."


    "- Yes."


    I really wanted to say no, but Opal shut his mouth that it wouldn''t make sense to him right now.


    Apparently, Hubert is quite averse to his predicament.


    Opal''s father said he waited three years, but I guess in the meantime he made an effort to do something about becoming Hubert.


    Without that bearing fruit, we are hitting Opal with frustration that led to an unwanted marriage.


    After a while, I decided that if I found out Opal wasn''t a rumoured woman, I''m sure Hubert''s attitude would change as well.


    "No matter how much money you parents and children gave me, that house is mine. I won''t let you talk."


    "But my mistress..."


    "I already have the role of Mistress"


    "Huh?"


    "It''s my father''s cousin, Mrs. Northam. She and her husband took care of me when I lost my parents at a very young age. Her husband died seven years ago, but until then, he had replaced his father. So just because I''m married, you can''t kick her and her daughter - Stella out of the house."


    "Of course it is."


    I heard Hubert lost his parents at an early age, but I didn''t even think about kicking anyone out who raised me instead.


    I didn''t even know there were such people in the first place.


    It''s just normal for Opal, Hubert''s married wife, to cut up the house as her mistress, but that''s dude I decided to tell her.


    A moment later, that Lady Northam might say it herself.


    "Again about Stella, but she doesn''t know the world because she''s very weak and has barely been out there. I wouldn''t want people like you to meet me if I were you, but I wouldn''t have a choice. As far as possible, you stay away from Stella."


    "... how old is Stella?


    "I''ll be twenty this year"


    Opal was taken aback and unable to return the words.


    Nothing but insults, such as being told not to come near women who are older than themselves because they don''t want to adversely affect them.


    And I found out that Opal was watching this marriage sweetly.


    I was wondering if you could take the time to see who you really are, even if it started with the exchange of money at first.


    Still, it could change if we celebrate our first night.


    I suppressed my anger thinking I might be able to pull out words of apology from Hubert tomorrow morning.


    If they apologize, let''s forgive them immediately without a lot of trouble.


    So if we discuss what''s to come properly, this marriage should work out pretty well.


    Maybe even a warm family you''ve been dreaming about can get it after a while.


    When I had that hope, I found out that the carriage had stopped and arrived at the Duke''s house.


    Hubert just got off, and Opal, who borrowed his hand from his servant and got off the carriage, looked up at the large mansion of the Duke''s house and breathed.


    Surely if the mansion, which is supposed to be for Wang Du''s stay, is so splendid, maintenance costs will be tough.


    With that in mind, Opal slowly went up the stairs to the front door.

 4 4. Dukes residence

    "Master Hubert, welcome home. Your room is ready."


    "Oh. Well, show her around."


    As Opal finished going up the stairs, a deacon-like man was speaking to Hubert.


    I can''t really peek there to celebrate the two just married.


    The faces of the servants lined up to welcome their husbands and wives are all uniformly cold and look to deserve an opal.


    I wonder how rude that is, the servants here don''t know, and Opal''s anger crept up but managed to contain it.


    It''s not a good idea that your first impression is that you''re angry.


    Write it down to your heart, trying to call the maid''s head later and pay attention.


    There, a deacon-like man bowed his head to Opal and greeted him.


    "Welcome aboard, ma''am. I am the deacon of this mansion, my name is Romit. If you need anything, please call me or this - Beth. Beth is a lady with a wife."


    To Romit''s words, a young woman lined up in front of him steps forward and bows her head.


    But Opal didn''t miss the disobedient look on that face.


    Opal wanted to resent Hubert for what he told him and how the servants were thus rebellious.


    Hubert at the time just walks inside the mansion.


    "Then I will show you to your wife''s room. Don''t worry, you''ll be tired today, we''ll take you to your room for dinner."


    "Really? Though I''m fine?


    "It''s Mrs. Northam''s concern."


    "... yes"


    Even the butler still thinks her mistress is Mrs. Northam.


    Besides, if it''s "your concern" to eat in your room without celebrating your first night of marriage, what''s wrong with your wife?


    But I didn''t want to make a scene in the mansion where I had just been married, and Opal followed Romit in silence.


    Whatever the size of the mansion, it''s usually the same build, so Opal, up the big stairs in the front, quickly found the master bedroom that would be his room.


    But Romit walks past that room.


    Apparently it was an opal I thought was a misunderstanding, but when I realized it was coming to the far end of the hallway.


    Romit opens the door there.


    Opal, surprised but prompted to enter the room, realized that it was a guest no matter what he saw there.


    "Romit, is this my room?


    "Thank you very much."


    "But this is a guest house. Hey, haven''t you re-modeled the master bedroom yet?


    "No. This room is certainly the furthest from the stairs, but it has plenty of washrooms and closets, and most importantly, the view through the window is a wonderful one. Mrs. Northam was chosen for her wife because she never bothered by annoying noises again."


    "... I appreciate your concern, but am I the Duchess? You should use the master bedroom, right? I need you to move your stuff now."


    "I can''t do that."


    "Why?"


    "The master bedroom - continues with Master Hubert, because Stella is using it."


    "Is...?


    I knew he had a high attitude, but he couldn''t be licked here, and Opal ordered Romit, scolding himself.


    I never thought I''d be able to use the master bedroom or push it into a room at this end.


    Even more astonishing was the fact that Opal was stunned.


    I can see the blood pulling from my face.


    Still, I held my left hand with my right hand wondering if it was something that would fall here, and I opened my mouth if I didn''t say something.


    "Is that Stella, your husband''s mistress?


    Words popped up that I hadn''t even thought of, but I guess I can''t help thinking about it that way.


    But now, the blood draws from Romit''s face when he hears Opal''s words.


    "No way... I''m sorry about this"


    Romit, with the look on his face that he just couldn''t believe, finally threw his contempt gaze at Opal and left the room.


    The leftover opal glimpsed Beth, a samurai ready to change like nothing had happened.


    She doesn''t say anything, but she seems angry listening to the conversation right now.


    Apparently, there are angels in this mansion.


    And we''re all hostile to snakes because they''ve got snakes in there that could taint that angel.


    Opal, who gave up marriage in his second season, didn''t care about his reputation or anything else.


    But this is how its reputation is now avenged.


    (But I saved this house, didn''t I? And yet why do I have to be ridiculed by the first servants I''ve ever met so far?)


    The more I think about it, the angrier I get, the more rage I''ve been holding back.


    The snake in this mansion is not himself.


    I have not met him yet, but it must be the person who is partitioning this house - Mrs Northam - who is instigating everyone.


    You probably think your position will be threatened.


    "Ridiculous"


    From a wedding dress, it was a squeaky opal while dressed in an easy dress, but Beth, who should have heard, says nothing.


    Let''s still offer to get separated when I''m twenty.


    I heard powerful footsteps approaching me when I was determined that I couldn''t possibly be able to do a child or something at this rate anyway.


    Only Hubert is allowed to make such a sound in this mansion.


    It was still Hubert standing across the open door without a knock.


    "Sir..."


    I had just finished dressing, but Opal tried to tell me to knock because he wondered what I would do if I was on my way.


    But I clog my voice with the sight of Hubert''s face approaching me in the shape of a ghost.


    "-!"


    "What a filthy woman! Stella... Stella, mistress, etc!


    He nearly screamed in pain with his right arm tight, but Opal ate his teeth all over him.


    When Hubert exhales his anger, he keeps his hands off Opal all the time saying it''s dirty.


    "I will not allow you to meet Stella. Look, let Beth through when you want to get out of the room. If it happens by chance, I can''t wait. Of course, I won''t stop you from going out. However, even if you were in a cage, I wouldn''t recognize you. Speaking of couples, I''m going to petition the royal court''s attorney."


    Is that all you said and satisfied, Hubert finally glanced at Opal before leaving.


    Opal left his bumpy and painful arms sloppy and dropped off behind him.


    And Beth didn''t say anything in the meantime, she just kept quiet in the corner of the room.

 5 5. Dukes residence

    Opal, as he was told, when he took dinner in his room, went into bed early and tried to sleep.


    But there was no way I could sleep, and he finally started to gloat when the sun came up, and he fell asleep until noon as it was.


    If I call Beth with a call bell, she''ll have no choice but to set up a system.


    It''s like you''re being blamed for living a lazy life.


    Usual opals are early risers for aristocrats, but it was troublesome to explain that either way.


    There''s just something I have to do.


    I have to talk to Mrs. Northam once.


    Opal, who thought so, told Beth about it.


    Then Beth walks out of the room in a shabby way.


    Not an attitude towards my husband, but caution awaited a reply from the Lady to try again.


    But after a while, I heard a knock, so I answered, and a strange woman came in.


    Apparently, from who I am, this woman is Mrs. Northam.


    "I heard you were calling?


    "Are you Mrs. Northam?


    "Yes. My name is late. My name is Talia Northam. My husband and I raised Joseph as Hubert''s guardian when he died."


    "Really? My name is Opal. Go ahead. You may call me Opal. Okay, back to you, I just said I wanted to talk to you, and I didn''t mean to call you in. But because of this, may I start now?


    "Absolutely."


    Answering that, Mrs. Northam just tried to sit back on the couch, reminding her of her position, or stopped moving.


    Seeing how it goes, Opal suggests to sit down with a bitter smile.


    And Opal, sitting across the street, asked Beth for a cup of tea and cut it out to go straight in.


    "I hear Mrs. Northam has cut you up as the mistress of this house for a long time now. Thank you."


    "No, it''s not like they''re going to thank you. So, does the story mean you should turn over your mistress''s seat?


    Opal seemed frustrated by a rather strong statement, but he had returned his dislike from an older woman many times before.


    If it''s true, I wanted to say you''re right, but I remember what Hubert said in yesterday''s carriage, and I enjoyed it a lot.


    "I''m not saying I can''t. I''m still unfamiliar with a lot of things, so I''d like to ask Madame to tell me a lot if I can."


    "Really?"


    Opal didn''t break his smile, even though he was frustrated by the reply, which just said it was natural for his wife.


    If I had told Hubert this beforehand, the Lady would have been better at it.


    "The only thing that bothers me is the master bedroom."


    When Opal said thoughtfully, the lady looked grumpy.


    But Opal kept staring straight at the lady, wondering if she was going to lose.


    Now, Hubert doesn''t have any feelings.


    Little expectations were all smashed yesterday.


    But when I got married and came to this mansion, it was weird and unacceptable just to think that another woman was using the master bedroom, even if I didn''t have to cut this mansion up as my mistress.


    "I don''t know until now, but I''ve been married to this mansion as the Duke''s - husband''s wife. I wonder if your daughter, Stella, would use the master bedroom connected by a single door with her husband. What does the world think?"


    "She... she''s been living in that room for years now. But there''s nothing in this mansion that leaks such a carefree thing outside!


    "But maybe I''ll talk to you, huh?


    I just said this word because I was angry, and I didn''t mean it.


    There is no reason to say such shame from yourself in the first place.


    But Beth breathed behind her back, and the lady shuddered and cried.


    "That kid''s been supporting Hubert the whole time! And now, even though Hubert''s got his back on that girl! If they pull him away from Hubert, he''ll be dead!


    What an exaggeration, Opal felt sick of it.


    The lady doesn''t notice such an opal, she takes out her handkerchief and complains as she wipes her tears.


    "That kid is a serious disease! I was told I couldn''t live until I was twenty, but thanks to Hubert''s dedicated support, I was able to work so hard..."


    That''s when the lady started crying out loud.


    Opal was just staring at it.


    I didn''t think Stella was that sick.


    No one told me. Just be hostile to Opal.


    "I''m sorry. Because my husband told me Mr. Stella was weak, but he didn''t know it was that bad. If that''s the case, I wish you''d told me from the beginning."


    Apparently Opal''s apology doesn''t reach the lady obsessed with crying.


    Even Opal is not a ghost, so I wouldn''t have said this if I''d known from the beginning.


    Still, I think it''s strange to use the master bedroom.


    So, uh, I think Hubert didn''t get married because Stella was sick, even though she cared enough to give him the master bedroom.


    (But it doesn''t mean just being around supports or protects you)


    Opal had a chilling thought as Beth set aside her husband and stared at her crying Mrs. Northam as she was forgiving her and taking her out of the room.


    Then, after a while, the loud footsteps approach.


    (Oh, I''ll see you later)


    The moment I thought so, the door opened again without a knock, and Hubert, blushing in anger, came into the room.


    "How awful a woman you are! Have you forgotten what I said yesterday!?


    "Good morning, sir"


    "What''s good morning! She''s really a woman with no blood or tears, such as just telling Mrs. Northam to turn over her mistress''s seat and next thing I know, tell her to kick Stella out of her master bedroom!


    "There is a misunderstanding in that story"


    "Where is the misunderstanding! In fact, not only Mrs. Northam, but Beth, who was listening beside me, is also testifying!


    "Really?"


    The more angry Hubert got, the colder his head and heart went.


    Hubert gets more and more angry with such an opal attitude.


    "I wonder why I have accepted to marry you!? Not only are you mundane, but you are such a cold woman!


    "... So why don''t they take the marriage annulment process now? That will bring peace back to this mansion as well. But please return my money and my father''s blessing."


    "Become!?


    "My husband asked me a question earlier, but he married me for a bribe, didn''t he? And my husband got the money the way he wanted. We were able to pay our debts back safely, and the Duke''s family''s decency was preserved. And yet why should I be treated like this? The servants have no respect for me. Isn''t it natural to be surprised there''s another woman in the master bedroom? But they haven''t even told me why, and this is how I can be blamed if I say a word. Why is that? I told my husband... what sin did you commit by rewarding the Duke''s house? I didn''t want this kind of marriage in the first place. My father ordered me to marry him."


    "I had no choice..."


    "Yeah, I had no choice. Or do you think I fell in love with you and begged my father?


    Hubert blushed to the words he meant to joke about.


    Apparently, that''s what he thought.


    Laughter creeps up at the silliness of it.


    "I am not required in this House. All you need is money. Then why don''t you just kill me?


    Hubert breathed much more in the words and blued his red face.


    I don''t know if it''s because the reaction surprised me unexpectedly or because I was thinking about it at all.


    "I''m sure it''ll work. It''s only been a day since I''ve been married, and my servants hate me so much. Everybody''s gonna keep their mouths shut, right?


    "Then don''t be silly!


    "Yeah, it''s really stupid. I had a little hope in this marriage. I was wondering if you would respect me a little as well as the money. But I understand very well. I really seem to be a disturber in this house, so you can think of me as something that isn''t there."


    "What..."


    "As my husband said yesterday, I will live in my room secluded from seeing my dear Stella. Of course I''ll let Beth know in advance when I go outside. So are you satisfied?


    To be honest, I didn''t mean to say this far.


    But since yesterday - no, the anger I''ve been recruiting since my father ordered me to marry him exploded.


    If they do, I''ll do it back.


    That was Opal''s character from a very young age, and he was often told by consulates and child-friendly Claude that it was not at his grandmother''s.


    And even stubborn and mean.


    Hubert didn''t think he''d be disputed so far, he couldn''t pinch his mouth much, he was just asking.


    But once Opal had finished talking to me, he pulled his lips together and told me.


    "If you don''t bother us, you can do whatever you want!


    Leaving words that also sounded like loss, Hubert turned his heel back and left roughly closing the door.


    I just thought I might have heard the noise now as far as the master bedroom, and Opal sighed.


    I''m sure you surprised your precious Stella.


    Opal, who stopped by the window with that in mind, learned that he was unnecessarily worried.


    There was a poor woman in a wheelchair in the garden looking down through the window, accompanied by her wife, who loved flowers.


    When I tried to get away from the window that if I could find Opal here, I could hit Hubert with anger again.


    My eyes turned to each other because the woman looked up all the time.


    A woman smiles as soon as possible.


    The grin looked so mean, Opal blinked.


    Opal stepped away from the window, thinking that maybe that was because of the addition or subtraction of the light now or because he was looking up.


    And ring the bell.


    What we were going to do was the will of Opal.

 6 6. Dukes residence

    "You think it''s the attic?


    "Yes, ma''am called Beth and asked if there was a room in the attic that wasn''t being used, and then let her guide her to the servant''s room that was vacant."


    "So you told me you were going to live there?


    "It is so good to see you. He said that luggage, hot tubs, etc. cannot be placed in the attic, so the room given will also be used, but usually spent here," he said.


    "What do you mean..."


    Unexpectedly Hubert shrugged and ordered Romit to back off.


    Perhaps you''re going to be giving back your interest by making sure you don''t spend time on the same floor because you said you wouldn''t let Stella see you.


    (determined to turn up the sound soon anyway)


    Hubert, who was working in the study, hummed his nose and tried to focus again on the paperwork in front of him.


    But the hand that held the fountain pen with nature stopped, thinking of Opal.


    In the morning I listened to Mrs. Northam''s appeal and got into Opal''s room in anger, but first I remember how disrespectful I was.


    He broke into the woman''s room without even knocking, and when he greeted her, he didn''t give it back, and he yelled and scattered.


    Sure, that''s all there was to it, but it''s still not an acceptable act.


    Besides, everything she told me afterwards was true.


    Whatever life she''s been living, she''s actually just been able to pay off her debts with her bribes and repair the mansion, so don''t have trouble living for the time being with the blessing from her father.


    Now we can pay Stella''s expensive medical bills as well.


    Hubert remembered that Opal and I danced once three years ago.


    It was so initial and pathetic then that there was something secretly appealing to me.


    However, since that time Hubert has had to make debts, and instead of romance, he was nowhere near thinking about finding a bride, etc.


    Afterwards, whenever I heard her rumors, I remember being disappointed.


    Whereas she enjoys life as much as I do, Stella was becoming more and more tied to the bed and angry at its irrationality.


    And when his neck stopped spinning, Count Holloway, Opal''s father, called out where he heard it from.


    Hubert was angry again, wondering if the Count knew a little bit about the debt that was supposed to keep no one from knowing because Opal wanted him.


    But the truth is, I also know Hubert.


    Anger toward Opal is mostly an eight-win way to delude the impudent self.


    But only Stella must be protected from Opal.


    The rest of her life was just a few moments away, and Hubert wanted to make all of that glorious for her.


    Stella owes a great deal. And there''s also a huge burden.


    Hubert''s parents died when he was only twelve.


    As the three of us headed from the territory to the King''s Capital, the carriage''s wheels fell off and the body fell off the cliff unluckily, and one Hubert survived.


    Moreover, in the two days leading up to his discovery, Hubert had to spend alone surrounded by his parents, maids and lords, plus the bodies of horses.


    That fear is still unforgettable and sometimes done.


    It was Stella who helped me with that.


    Hubert had to sleep in his parents'' bedroom every night, succeeding the Duke at the age of twelve, when his parents had just died.


    Stella walked into the room after falling asleep and slowed me down.


    Stella was only six years old, but when her family calmed down, Stella came to Hubert every night rubbing her sleepy eyes and singing her lousy lullabies.


    It was something the two of us slept on, so it soon came to the knowledge of Northam and his wife, but knowing what was going on with Hubert, they were still young, and the couple forgave without blame.


    Even more so, Stella began to sleep in her mother''s room.


    Maybe the couple wanted two marriages after a while.


    Hubert didn''t know that, but if he wanted to, he would have married even if he only thought he was his sister.


    But when Stella turned ten, she was found sick.


    At first I had a fever and fell asleep, so everyone thought it was just a cold.


    That was no other symptom, just repeated fever, and when everyone was surprised and diagnosed by a well-known doctor, he was pronounced incurable.


    Fever is the rescue signal of the so-called body, and in Stella''s body, cells are fighting germs and protecting Stella.


    However, unfortunately, this germ is very strong and they haven''t found any medicines to combat it yet.


    Perhaps with time, Stella won''t even be able to walk, and one day she won''t even be able to move her heart.


    That''s what I heard. Both Northam and Hubert mourned.


    But you can''t make Stella understand that.


    For that reason, both Hubert and his wife had been keeping her mouth shut, taking care of Stella and protecting her, including servants.


    Yet fate is harsh, and Lord Northam passed away before Stella did.


    Sir Northam, who replaced much younger Hubert and had managed his territory and property, suffered a heart attack and died at the consulate on a cold winter day when Hubert was in college.


    For Hubert, the consulate and the territory had so many memories with his parents that he could not return since then, but it had become an even more abominable place.


    If it''s true, maybe we should go back to airy territory for Stella.


    But not only is it an abominable place over there, but if you don''t have all sorts of doctors, just delivering the pills will take time.


    I don''t have the financial resources to just have doctors stationed on the territory right now.


    The Territory''s crops suffered enormous damage as a result of water damage that occurred four years ago.


    Since then, one disaster after another, such as a drought and an outbreak of insects, had struck and, when they realized it, they had to pay their debts.


    I want to let go of that land for the first time, but it doesn''t work either.


    Hubert decided to ride Count Holloway''s sweet story as a bitter measure.


    (Anyway, you''ll be out of the attic soon. At that time, can we discuss it again...)


    Hubert, awakened from his memories, thought so arrogantly.


    I didn''t explain anything about Stella. There is definitely a drop.


    So I thought I could break it for a little while.


    But Hubert''s thoughts were vain, and a week later, Opal never left the attic.

 7 7. Attic

    Eight days after Opal moved into the attic.


    The awakened opal stretched his back wide and relaxed the stiffness of his body.


    In the beginning, this solid wood bed was hard to sleep in, but now I''m used to it a lot.


    Outside the room there are signs that the servants have begun to move.


    At this hour, he thinks he''s never going to see Stella, or even Hubert, and he''s making it Opal''s activity time.


    The servants still treat Opal as if they can''t see it, but if they speak up, they answer quite a bit.


    When I went down to the ground floor on the first day I slept in the attic and spoke to one of my servants, it was pretty much a bit.


    The dress I was trying to take to where it would be my home before I got married was bringing a few in the attic because I could wear it alone without help, and Opal went downstairs dressed again today.


    And the first purpose I spoke to - now that I know where the library was, Opal had gone through every day and taken a few books back to the attic.


    I spend the whole day in the attic, except for this little walk in the morning and going back to the room I was originally given for a bath or wash.


    When I read the book, I do gymnastics on the spot, move my body, and if I am tired of embroidering, I do gymnastics again, and sleep with a meal that is brought in three meals.


    Life is like a privileged prisoner, but for Opal this marriage was something similar.


    (But I''m not a prisoner, and being mean sounds stupid to me...)


    The Opal Preferred book in the library had been read through in advance.


    Opal thinks while walking slowly between the bookshelves as appropriate.


    Hubert said if you don''t show yourself in front of Stella, you just have to like it.


    Then all you have to do is get out of this mansion.


    Let''s go back to the Count''s territory, which we were planning to return to when the season was over.


    There should be no father, no brother coming home anyway, and no face to face with Opal.


    If you say it''s a little homecoming after marriage, everyone in the territory will be happy to welcome you.


    It''s enough that I don''t have a husband because I''m busy.


    In fact, I used to watch Stella''s opponent seem busy through a small window in the attic.


    Tell Hubert even this morning and we''ll leave tomorrow morning.


    That way, we''ll arrive at the consulate by evening, and if you let your lord stay the night and go home, Hubert will just put up with a life without a carriage for two days.


    Worst case scenario, you can use Tsuji carriage.


    Opal, who came up with the name proposal, was slipping between the bookshelves at the crossing of his nose, but at that time there was a book on his eyes.


    It''s a history book of this Duke''s house.


    So when I looked around, there were a few books about the territory, etc.


    Speaking of which, I didn''t think you knew exactly where this Duke family territory was. Opal took them.


    Because I''m married, I take it back to my room that it wouldn''t hurt to know if I were to get separated in about a year.


    From there I spent time reading biographies and such until Beth brought me breakfast.


    "Hey, Beth."


    "What should we do?


    "I want to talk to my husband, so please ask him to make time as soon as possible. Of course, if you specify a time and a place, you''ll be sure to let me know."


    "... Yes, sir."


    In order not to be like the last time Mrs. Northam, I asked Beth to be clear.


    Beth leaves the room when she agrees without a look on her face.


    Then Beth didn''t quite come home.


    You shouldn''t just be skipped lunch, so read the book carefully that you took out of the library without the opal causing you any trouble.


    Next in the biography was a record book written about the Duke''s territory, and I was looking through it as I widened the map in my head, but the newer the record, the more Opal was filling up with doubt.


    (This looks like you should get a little tempered...)


    When Opal thought that, the door was knocked and lunch was carried.


    Beth glanced at Opal slightly and faintly pointed her lips at him for not liking reading the book loosely.


    Apparently I had to be angry when the reply to the earlier message was slow.


    Opal closed the book, laughing wildly inside.


    "Good luck, Beth. Today''s lunch looks delicious."


    To be honest, it was like the Count''s servant was eating, which was the kind of menu that I wonder about as a Duke''s meal, but probably because he''s stuffing his food bill on this.


    I was just wondering what the servants here were eating for this menu at Opal''s, but I couldn''t take the job of my mistress, Mrs. Northam, so I kept quiet.


    So far, the servants don''t look undernourished either.


    So it occurred to Opal that Mrs. Northam''s experience, rather than the issue of food costs, might also be relevant.


    I''ve never heard of a night club or tea party at the Duke of McCloud''s house before.


    Rumor was that it was because the Duke didn''t like people very much, and he thought it was because he avoided inviting people because of Stella.


    But if Lady Northam didn''t know how to behave as the Duchess'' mistress, I''m convinced she didn''t even hold a little.


    Of course, the problem in terms of funding will be enormous in the last few years.


    Still, it''s not the same as inviting guests to the mansion.


    It is only by being able to do both that I am recognized as a fine mistress.


    With Opal and Hubert married this time, there must be a lot of people who expect it to be next year.


    (Oh, it stinks... Because if you don''t hold anything, you''ll make fun of my qualities as a mistress...)


    Of course I''m a duke, so no one stands out and criticizes me.


    It''s just that it''s in the shadows and rumours again.


    At the end of the season marriage, this was all fortunate.


    (Well, just let whoever you want me to say it. ''Cause when you''re twenty, you''re gonna get separated)


    Opal, who arrived at the table for a solo meal and began his meal, stabbed him with a fork to hit the boiled potatoes with various frustrations.


    Then put it in your mouth and chew slowly.


    Salt reduction is not good, but not so bad.


    "Um, ma''am..."


    "... what is it?


    "I asked for Mr. Hubert''s convenience..."


    "Oh, you did. So?"


    "Huh?"


    "Yeah, what''s your response?


    Beth seemed puzzled by Opal''s response, which was completely distracted by other things.


    I wish I hadn''t had a lot from the beginning then, Opal urges Beth to chill out.


    "After this meal, I asked you to come to the South Tea Party Room."


    "Yes. So where is the tea party room to the south of it?


    "I''ll show you"


    "Okay. Nice to meet you."


    Lightly answered, Opal continued his meal again.


    When I think I''m leaving this mansion tomorrow, I don''t care anymore.


    As long as I have the money I got by marrying Opal, like the people in this mansion don''t care about Opal or anything.


    And Opal, having finished his meal, moved himself into a cloudy mirror without dressing or retightening his hair, only to make sure his face was not dirty, leaving the attic about after Beth.

 8 8. Attic

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 9 9. Count collar

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 10 10. Count territory

    "Congratulations, lady. I was really surprised when you wrote to me that you were married. So, are you okay with being back so soon? What about the Duke? I can''t believe we''ve already had a fight..."


    Opal laughed at Marcia''s usual chatter after a warm embrace as she almost cried.


    "You''re rude already! The Duke was too busy to be with you, but I really need to check something important. Besides, I was supposed to go home after the season, but I went straight to my daughter-in-law, so I wanted to say hello to everyone. The truth is, the Duke and - I wanted to come with my husband, but that''s another chance. ''Cause there was so much rush."


    I didn''t like Opal, who kept lying while slowly entering the mansion.


    Still, I can''t help but worry about everyone.


    But it wasn''t all a lie.


    "Is Trevor here now?


    "Yes. Will I see you later?


    "Yeah. I''ll just stop today. It''s important, so I need to get some rest, and I need you to do me a favor tomorrow when I have time for Trevor. Will you ask Trevor about your plans for tomorrow?


    "Yes, sir."


    Opal asked his butler, Orton, to go to his room the same as before.


    The room was always ready for use and Opal exhaled deeply as if he hadn''t been able to breathe in months.


    "Lady, welcome home! Oh, the Duchess?


    "Stop, Naja. As always."


    Naja, the maid who came out of the bathroom in the room, shined her face when she saw Opal.


    Na?ve Naja is often pissed at Marcia for not being polite, but still adored by everyone.


    Opal is one of them, because Marcia spoils the lady, and even Opal gets a novel.


    I thought you were really back. Power fell out of your body, and Opal lowered his back to the bench.


    "You''re tired, lady. We''ll have a bath ready in a minute, please wait."


    "Thank you, Naja"


    I guess soon after Opal got his report back, Naja went on to prepare me for a bath.


    I''m so glad that the care is tired and forgettable.


    But the words that followed also bore Opal.


    "No, we''re all glad the lady is back, even temporarily. And me, of course! Because when I heard you were married to the Duke, I was surprised. I thought there was something about this shocking marriage."


    "Huh?"


    "''Cause unlike me, it sounds like a smart, cautious lady would marry in such a hurry. Well, the Duke was cool, wasn''t he?


    "Yeah, yeah. Right."


    "What kind of person are you? The Duke."


    "Right...... I only danced once three years ago when I first met you. The Duke doesn''t like people very much, and he rarely goes out on social occasions, so it''s already floating around."


    "Well!"


    "So, it''s been a while since I''ve seen you again the other day... and when I realized I was married"


    "Fair enough! How passionate!


    Opal slowly replied not to lie to Naja''s words as she raised her voice with the washroom door open.


    Then Naja seems to have given the answer on her own, excited.


    Guilty, Marcia came in with a tad of water when Opal was in trouble to figure out what to do next if asked a deeper question.


    "I knew you were bothering the lady with the chatter, Naja?


    "Yeah? ''Cause you want to know, lady''s love bana"


    "This, thick banana?


    "Difference! Marcia doesn''t know what it''s like to be a maiden."


    "No more, just bring the water!


    "Yes."


    Marcia was not angry with me or how I punished her, and Naja left the room in a light foothold.


    Opal chuckles at the usual exchanges.


    I thought this was our home.


    "I''m sorry you came home all of a sudden without contacting me, Marcia. You''re keeping everyone busy."


    "What are you talking about, my lady? You don''t have to contact me, but the lady can always come home. Even if you''re married, this is your daughter''s house."


    "Oh, this is your father''s house."


    "Speaking of which, you did."


    For years the Count had not returned to the territory, and Marcia joked about it and the two of us laughed.


    Then Marcia pounds about empty, as she remembers something.


    "Yeah, yeah, I was. Olton said Trevor will be in the study tomorrow afternoon."


    "Really? Thank you, Marcia. Well, I guess I''ll have my afternoon tea in the study."


    "Yes, I did. Okay, I''ll bring it to your study."


    "Yeah, please."


    While discussing tomorrow''s appointment, Naja and the other maid showed up with a sag, and the hot tub filled with hot water.


    So Opal takes a bath, then lightens his dinner, and takes his time.


    I never thought the time I''d taken for granted before, the treatment would be more thankful.


    I really think I was blessed, and then I wonder if I could just leave Hubert like this.


    (That''s like running away...)


    The opal of the original losing personality was becoming more and more regrettable.


    It''s what weak people do, like run away without fighting.


    (And it doesn''t matter what you think, does it? Why do I have to be treated so disruptively? That angel''s medical bills are covered by my money, right?


    I do feel bad for being incurable, but I think that attitude is terrible.


    I don''t want you to fall back and thank me, I just want you to be respectful.


    From the statement that they bought the Duke for money, the Duke family was not supposed to have any idea of the current situation.


    Yet I guess that attitude is still imitating to my husband.


    (I don''t know how much you don''t mean. That''s what I''m talking about!


    Opal accidentally slapped the cushion. Many times.


    Then just a little anger subsides, breathe and vomit, and breathe.


    He was pretty stressed out, too, because he''d been stuck in the attic the whole time.


    Tomorrow morning I decided to even ride a horse, and for that I decided to go to bed already.


    (Well, anyway, I know exactly what your father said now. My husband is sweet.)


    With a sigh of goodness, Opal closed his eyes twirling into his long-time fuzzy duvet.


    I was still tired, and from there I quickly fell asleep without thinking.

 11 11. Count Territory

    "Hello, Trevor. You look good."


    "It''s been a while, ma''am. Congratulations on your marriage this time. Sorry I couldn''t pick you up yesterday."


    Opal, who entered the study, gave a bright greeting to Trevor, the land administrator who was working.


    Then, he often raises his burnt face in the day, and Trevor laughs with a wrinkle in his eye.


    "It''s okay, because I''m the one who''s suddenly back. Then when it comes to marriage, thank you. I just want to say..."


    "Is there a problem?


    "It''s huge."


    "Oh, well."


    Trevor also moved his seat across from Opal, who was not even recommended for the reception couch in the study.


    Trevor always gives calm and accurate advice.


    The same goes for Orton, the butler, and Marcia, the housekeeper, but only a little - no, I can''t talk about this because it makes me pretty opal.


    At that time, a knock sounded and Marcia prepared the tea and brought it to me.


    "Thank you, Marcia. That''s my favorite muffin with orange peel!


    "That''s right. If you don''t serve this, the lady won''t leave the cooking area."


    "I''m not a kid anymore."


    "I''m glad the Duke thought so."


    That said, Marcia leaves the study.


    Trevor, watching the two of them interact, sighed, man.


    "If you reveal to Mr. Marcia that there is a problem, he will take you to the Duke''s residence instead of the servants here. Hey."


    "Shit, don''t be scared. I''m really gonna do it."


    Opal, shaking deliberately, laughs, drinks tea and eats muffins.


    Trevor also waited for Opal to start talking, then silently sipping tea.


    "You know, this marriage was decided between your father and the Duke of McCloud."


    "Well, it''s called political marriage."


    "Yeah. I had no objection. Well, so I rushed to the ceremony, and I married the Duke''s house... Duke - my husband, of course, the servant of the mansion, no one. He treats me like an intruder. Besides, there was another woman in the master bedroom, so you''d have to get mad now, wouldn''t you?


    "That''s terrible. As much as I''d like to go yelling at the Duke''s mansion without a glance."


    "Trevor did?


    Even though it was a pale answer, the statement didn''t seem like Trevor, and Opal laughed unexpectedly.


    Trevor raises a single eyebrow just because he''s out of his mind.


    "I still care about your daughter."


    "... thanks, Trevor. It''s just that I''ve been in that master bedroom with a distant woman who lived in the Duke''s Mansion since I was a little girl, and she can''t live much longer."


    "- Was it like that? Nevertheless, the Duke has already been married, so it''s unthinkable in common sense."


    "Yeah...... Well, that''s enough. I just didn''t know it at first and said," Are you a mistress? ''I asked and pissed off my husband and everyone. The woman is very well cared for at the Duke''s residence. But isn''t it worse if you don''t tell me? So I decided to live in the attic so I wouldn''t show my face anymore. "


    "How are you comfortable living?


    "Fair enough."


    It''s supposed to be a tragic story, but Opal''s tone doesn''t make me feel that.


    Of course, there''s no such thing as Opal not hurting, and I guess I''m worried about Trevor.


    There''s just no way Opal needs Trevor''s time just to say stupid.


    So Trevor inquired with a serious face.


    "So what''s the biggest problem for the lady?


    "... as I said earlier, this marriage is a political tactic - a contract. With my money, my husband will pay off his debts and cover his immediate living expenses with a wedding gift from your father."


    When Opal revealed, Trevor opened his eyes.


    Apparently it was too unexpected.


    "Does the Duke make bets?


    "I don''t think so. Because your father didn''t say anything. Just say ''sweet'' about your husband"


    "Hmm. That''s still weird. If there is a territory owned by the Duke of McCloud that I know, it shouldn''t be strange to be a tremendous fortune teller rather than a debt......"


    "There was a big drought a few years ago, wasn''t there?


    "Yes. That did hit the whole country hard. But the Duke''s house would have had a solid stockpile, and we could have gotten enough back in a year."


    "It looks like the next year there was water damage, then pest damage"


    "In the Duke''s Land? I am always attentive to work patterns, weather not only in the Earl Territory, but also in other territories, although pest damage due to water damage has occurred elsewhere, you have not heard of it near the Duke''s territory."


    Trevor denies Opal''s words one after the other.


    So Opal still thought, putting the two record books he had brought on the table.


    "What''s this?


    "Refrain from the records of territorial control found at the Duke''s residence."


    "Are you sure you want to bring out something as important as that?


    "My husband said, ''This is like you bought it, so you can take whatever you want''"


    "Oh, well."


    Seeing Opal say with his chin up, Trevor grins.


    The strength of my heart is the same.


    Trevor was also interested in managing the territory of other houses and did not hesitate to take the older of the record books.


    And it''s easy to look through.


    Sometimes my hands stopped paging, but I didn''t spend so much time working on another book.


    I know you really want to read it carefully, but now you seem to be in a hurry because you''re keeping Opal waiting.


    But the movement also changed from as much in the record books as it did.


    I look between my eyebrows, return to the page a few times, move on again, follow the letters with my fingers, and sometimes I think about it.


    In the meantime, Opal patiently wanted to pinch his mouth and waited for a cup of tea.


    Eventually Trevor put the record down and exhaled heavily.


    "You''re being wronged."


    "After all?"


    "Has the lady seen this and been noticed?


    "No, not at all. I just thought it was strange somehow. That''s why I wanted to talk to Trevor."


    "Hmm. To know exactly, you must also check the weather records from past years. Can I have a moment?


    "Absolutely. I''m sorry, Trevor. I got a lot of extra work."


    "What do you say? As I said earlier, I care about my daughter with all my heart. But with the administration as it is, the Duke''s house will be torn down again. I''ll make sure to expose this injustice so the lady doesn''t have to struggle."


    "... thanks. Well, good to see you."


    "Yes, leave it to me"


    You shouldn''t cry here, you should laugh.


    Yes, I told myself, Opal laughed at me, suppressing what he was going to put in, and left the study.

 12 12. Duke Territory

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 13 13. Duke Territory

    At the consulate, Opal was unexpectedly welcomed.


    I can''t feel any malice from Debbie the housekeeper or the maids, including Lind the butler.


    Instead, it''s been a long time since my husband - like my mistress came home.


    Naturally the master bedroom for the mistress.


    After all, he didn''t know about the Duke''s debt, and even though the meal didn''t have to be fancy, he was provided with something decent.


    Only Omar, the territorial administrator, could see the vigilance behind his smile.


    Apparently, he''s worried about not questioning the disparity between Wang Du''s mansion and the consulate.


    So Opal pretended to know nothing and, as I told Hubert, brought in the luggage he had brought from the consulate in the Count''s territory - the dress Opal had stopped wearing and the items around him.


    Omer has since suggested that he guide the territory, but Opal declined to be interested.


    However, when asked what it would be like to shop and socialize in this neighborhood, Omer answered with relief.


    The city, which the Duchess can only satisfy, is not in this territory, says the city of Novoli, which takes two days by carriage but is on the Marquis territory next door.


    "Two days in the carriage? Well, that takes so long..."


    "Yes, because the Duke''s Land has been unlucky and has been completely poor for the past few years because it has continued to fail"


    "You are. I''m disappointed. I figured I''d head back to King''s Capital soon..."


    Opal shrugged in a mild condition and showed by hand that he could back off to Omer.


    Now the arrogant Duchess can only be interested in socializing and shopping.


    When Omer leaves the room, Naja says, "We''ll keep gathering information," and leaves as well.


    Opal, alone in the room, decided to head to the library with boredom.


    When Debbie, the housekeeper, showed me around in the morning, I just took a quick peek through the door, but Opal, once again stepping into the library room, was astonished.


    Unlike the Duke''s mansion in the King''s Capital, the library housed so many books that it was no less than the Count''s mansion.


    There are also a number of things Opal can tell is a rare book just by looking through it, and if he sells it to a collector on that path, it will be a piece of property.


    There was nothing of value at all in the Duke''s mansion in Wang Du.


    Since it should never be possible to keep so many books together and put only that much in the library room of Wang Du''s mansion, it is presumably assumed that Hubert let go for the flow of funds.


    If I sold the book here, I''d have had to get married for at least another year.


    (If your husband comes back here properly, you don''t have to owe him anything, right?


    That way, Opal was twenty years old and free without having to marry for a bribe.


    Thinking about it, I was getting angry with Hubert.


    (But well, maybe I could thank my husband for a little bit because he might have been daughter-in-law by some fat, hairy man who would be a little in my father''s favor)


    Hubert''s sweetness cleared my mind a little if I thought it saved Opal''s future.


    Even if he is badly treated in the Duke''s residence in Wang Du, he will not be subjected to violence, nor will he be forced to kiss.


    Moreover, I also find it rewarding to address this challenge.


    Opal left the library taking a few books of stories preferred by women to avoid being suspicious.


    Perhaps, but Omer doesn''t realize the value of the book.


    Of course, the wrongdoer hasn''t decided yet with Omer.


    Then two days later, Opal went out to the city of Novoli.


    Opal says he prefers someone who knows the land well, and escorts his servant to another, not Trevor.


    I wanted Trevor to find the back book in the meantime, if possible.


    That''s why I wanted to take Omar with me, but that''s why I was turned down for work.


    Upon arriving in the city of Novoli, Opal found out on the second day of his stay why Omer was not accompanied.


    Because a man named Reubeau came to Opal, who was staying in the lodging.


    Opal, at first, was alarmed by a name he had never heard of, but the man had asked to see him in proper procedure, so he decided to meet him for the first time.


    "Debt?


    "Yes, here''s the letter of borrowing"


    With that said, Lubbo showed him a borrowing letter with Omer''s name on it.


    I can see that cunning where I don''t keep it from myself.


    "... why would you give that to me?


    "We are very important in collecting information and doing business. It should be painful to twist any more gold out of the Duke''s territory. That''s why Omer hasn''t come to this city in the last few months. Afraid of taking up debt. I was already on my way to collect it, but when I heard that the Duke was married, I decided to wait a while. If we''re going to give back the money, it doesn''t matter who it is. So I came to ask the rich Duchess."


    "... How long has Omer been here - going to the casino? And what about debt from outside of you?


    "Has it been more than ten years? At first, the stakes were cute. That gradually grew larger, and now I have to borrow this kind of amount. Still, Omer is a prudent one, so he never borrowed money from anyone but me. I have a reputation for being the toughest to trust in this neighborhood. It is also used by many gentlemen"


    "I see..."


    In short, Omer has been gambling since the death of his predecessor.


    And, as is often the case with addicts, he used more and more indulgence and being entrusted with the administration of the territory to spend embezzled money on gambling.


    Besides, I guess Hubert has never known me before because I only owed him from Lubbo, who said he had the most credibility of all the money lending, when he lost.


    Maybe Omer in this city, besides Lubbo, was faking his identity.


    Again, for the gold-lending Lubbo, there was no problem with Omer trying to embezzle him that he would be a liar, even paying back his debts.


    I guess LeBeau has asked Opal to replace his debt shoulders in order to know exactly what is happening in the Duke''s territory and not to miss this opportunity.


    As it stands now, Omer could disappear neglectfully.


    "... there are terms for me to repay that money instead"


    "What is it about?


    "Naturally, I''ll give that loan to you. Also, if I don''t owe Omer any more, I''ll get your signed certificate. And finally, the record of the money I''ve lent Omer so far - you''ll have a loan book, so I''d like that."


    "As for borrowings and certificates, of course you can. But when it comes to books..."


    "You will never lend Omar money again, will you? ''Cause there''s no prospect of repayment. Then you shouldn''t have to."


    "... don''t ask me what I''m going to do with those books. But you are still the legendary king who is said to have turned everything he touched into gold - the rebirth and whispered Count Holloway''s maiden."


    "My father has nothing to do with this."


    Clearly, Opal returned to Duke territory after completing all the proceedings the next day.


    The money in hand is completely gone, but there''s no problem if you ask the trustee to accommodate you again.


    Opal chuckled, thinking that he might be opposed to being reckless when it came to what he was just about to do.


    "Ma''am, was there anything interesting?


    "Right...... I''ll tell Naja what I''m planning to do. I''m sure there ''ll be a riot when I get back to the consulate."


    Opal had told Naja that on his way back to Duke territory, but there had already been one disturbance.


    Apparently, while Opal was away, Omer was trying to escape with his golden-eyed stuff.


    That''s what Trevor found and caught.


    "Looks like it was a little late to escape, Omer."


    "If you hadn''t come, I could have done better!


    "Really? If it weren''t for me, wouldn''t you have been seen worse by Lebow? So I want you to thank me."


    That being said, Opal showed me a borrowing letter he bought out of Lubbo.


    Then Omer gets quiet as soon as possible.


    "Trevor, did you find the back book?


    "Yes. It was easy. Anyway, this Omer had it when he ran away."


    "Oh..."


    Opal looked down at Omer, who remained tied to the rope, thinking about what he should have done if he had just burned it.


    Omer is sitting on the floor nagging like he gave up.


    "... if it''s true, I''d like to throw you into the barn right now, but my lord here, my husband, will make that cut, so until then... let''s keep our stature in Earl Territory"


    It was Lind, the butler, who stood beside him all the time with a blue look, who looked up all the way to Opal''s decision.


    I''m sure he''s been shocked to learn about Omer''s nature, which he''s trusted and joined forces with for years.


    Of course, we can''t abandon the possibility that Lind is also an accomplice, but we can look into that from now on.


    "Trevor, how many people know about this - Omer''s wrongdoing?


    "Not so much. There''s Lind and the housekeeper, Debbie, and then there''s just two of my servants brought in from the Count''s house. �� so far."


    "... Lind, so can you be sure?


    "Yes...... We had no idea that Omer was guilty of this�� This disturbance was also in the middle of the night, and Mr. Trevor was rather well noticed..."


    Opal and Trevor laughed bitterly at Lind''s answer.


    It was the middle of the night that Trevor realized.


    I guess I just happened to catch Omer trying to escape trying to sneak up on where the back book is.


    It seems Trevor has done his job to work well with the residents.


    Unusual as a land administrator, Trevor has a fairly resilient body.


    "My husband absolutely hates it when this thing leaks outside. So, Lind, I don''t want Debbie telling anyone about this either. All right?


    "Yes, sir."


    "Yes!


    Debbie, the housekeeper who stood blue, as did Lind, also replied to Opal''s words, which he had pushed to keep secret.


    These two are trustworthy.


    Although this was only an inquiry, Opal decided to leave Omer''s watch to the two servants and consult with Trevor about what was to come.

 14 14. Dukes residence

    In the carriage to the Count''s territory, Trevor and I briefly confirmed our plans for the future.


    Let Omar work while he''s being watched at the Count''s house.


    "Of course it won''t be easy to escape, but there won''t be anything you can''t do. Because we''re not going to tie you up in a rope all day and just let you sit down. But, you know, seriously, if I get a report that you work at the Count''s house, I''m gonna ask my husband to mitigate your sins. If you don''t tie yourself up, you don''t have to spend the rest of your life in a cage."


    When Opal told him so and made him listen, Omer looked back suspiciously.


    Instead of being frightened by that gaze, Opal smiles.


    "In the first place, you are nothing right now. I asked Lebow to lend you money so that it wouldn''t pass on to a decent loan. So if you''re going to bet like before, you''re going to have to ask for an undisciplined loan."


    Omer seems to have figured out how that ends.


    If you still want to borrow money and gamble, it''s not what Opal found out anymore.


    Originally, you can go to the store immediately, but then Hubert''s lack of supervision will be exposed.


    In that case, the public will also be informed of Hubert''s debt and the circumstances surrounding his marriage to Opal.


    With that in mind, Opal is taking generous steps.


    Trevor says it should be rich this year.


    So Opal was going to invest in the Duke''s territory from his property to renew the farming equipment used by the inhabitants.


    And after making farming easier, if the harvest is successfully completed and you earn money, start building houses and roads for the inhabitants.


    Street maintenance is so massive that this plan will take years, but Trevor also undertook for me that the Duke''s territory has local power, so long as it doesn''t continue to be so massive a disaster.


    It won''t be a problem next year if Hubert takes over the aftermath, even if it''s remote.


    Even if this plan fails, it''s about Opal''s private property when it comes to losing it.


    Upon his return to the consulate of the Count, Opal left it to the butler, Orton, to tell him about Omar''s circumstances, and two days later he left again with Trevor for the King''s Capital.


    If you pass on this plan, Hubert might change that caustic attitude that would be from the debt burden.


    When Opal arrived at the Duke''s mansion in the King''s Capital with that in mind, the only greeting was from the butler, Romit.


    Still, Opal asked Romit as he entered the mansion.


    "Where is my husband?


    "... you''re in the South Tea Party Room"


    "Yes...... So, do you know what your husband plans to do tomorrow afternoon?


    "I haven''t asked in particular..."


    "Then I want you to tell my husband. After lunch tomorrow, he wants to see you in the study because we need to talk about something important. Some of the customers I invited at that time, so thank you."


    "... Yes, sir."


    Leaving a disgruntled romit, Opal turned first to the guest he had been given.


    So I ask my dissatisfied Beth to prepare the bath again, and then I go into the attic again.


    Apparently, they weren''t even cleaned while Opal was gone.


    On his way back to the guest room, he hurried to the wrong maid to clean the attic, and Opal soaked himself in the prepared bath.


    Opal then asks Beth to help him get dressed. When he gets dinner in the attic, he lays on a stiff bed.


    Hubert never came to see him or called him, even though Opal would have noticed he was back.


    I''m disappointed in myself for that.


    (With time and distance, I thought my husband would calm down a bit, but it seemed like a waste of time...)


    Opal, who sighed at him, fell asleep as soon as he did.


    I guess I still had the fatigue of the journey.


    The next time I woke up, the sun was getting pretty high.


    When I go into the guest room and ring the bell, Beth shows up like she doesn''t like it and helps me change.


    Then when I had breakfast and lunch in the guest room, I waited for Trevor''s visit.


    Trevor left for the Count''s mansion yesterday after Opal left the carriage at the Duke''s mansion.


    If my father ever blames me, he says I should tell him why.


    But my father probably knew everything and let him marry Hubert to enjoy how Opal would handle it.


    Opal, finally realizing about it, also got angry but gave up on what he was going to do to his daughter''s life.


    Wishing Hubert''s ''sweetness'' could be improved with this, Opal revisits Omer''s borrowings and past lending books he had brought home, and the managerial back books of the Duke''s Territory.


    I heard the carriage there, so I peered through the window where I could see the front door, and I saw the simple carriage of the Earl of Holloway house.


    "Yes, that''s good."


    One shrugged Opal, holding himself in a large bag of books, went straight downstairs.


    And in a bowl with Romit, who came out on the doorstep to deal with the visitors, Opal put the bag on the spot and waited for Trevor to come in.


    "Hello, Trevor. Thanks for taking the time today."


    "No, please don''t worry. It''s for the lady."


    Listening to the conversation between Opal and Trevor, Romit gave a disgusting look.


    As a butler, no matter what you think, you shouldn''t put it on your face.


    All in all, Opal asked Romit with a grin, though he was frightened that the mansion was not functioning as a Duke''s house.


    "Is your husband in the study?


    "Thank you very much."


    "So, he''ll be guided by me, so can you ask him to prepare tea?


    - Yes, sir.


    When Romit turned his heel back, Trevor grabbed a subtle bag of opal and laughed as he came.


    "That''s more than I imagined."


    "Isn''t it? So be prepared for what''s to come."


    "So it''s not a glimmer."


    Trevor answered with some pleasure as Opal advised him as he headed to the study.


    If Trevor hadn''t been here, Opal probably wouldn''t have stayed so strong either.


    Even if Hubert doesn''t listen to Opal, he''ll just listen to Trevor, the Count''s administrator.


    Besides, we have clear evidence here.


    With that in mind, Opal responded with Hubert''s voice from inside as soon as he had the courage to knock on the study door.


    But Opal, who took Trevor and stepped into the study, saw Hubert''s face, which he hadn''t seen in nearly a month, and realized that this discussion was not going to be easy.


    Hubert looks like a chunk of grump.


    "Oh, my God."


    It was an opal that seemed unintentionally frightening, but I caught my mind when I heard Trevor whining a little behind me.


    I don''t want to show Trevor my pity.


    "Sir, it''s been a long time. We''re back safely."


    It was yesterday that he came back, but still Hubert said nothing to Opal for greeting him home.


    Just grudgingly throwing questions at Trevor.


    "Who are you?


    "He''s Trevor Ritton. He''s the administrator of Count Holloway, my father''s territory."


    "Administrator of the Earl of Holloway territory......? Why would someone like that be here?


    Sure, Hubert was a duke, and Opal was ashamed of his lack of at least courtesy towards older people, although he was in a position to be allowed to behave as he is now.


    Moreover, since Trevor''s identity was found out, it has become even more like a look down.


    Of course Hubert''s attitude towards the servants of the Duke''s mansion is generous and probably because Trevor is a person on the Opal side.


    Still, it''s too childish.


    Opal managed to make him smile in the face of what he wanted to say back.


    "Sir, may I sit down for a moment? We''ll talk about it then."


    "... okay"


    Hubert admitted in such a way that he sat down on the reception couch.


    Opal sat across from it, but Trevor remained standing beside him without lowering his hips.

 15 15. Dukes residence

    I guess Trevor decided from Hubert''s attitude that it was better to stay standing.


    That''s when Romit showed up with his tea.


    And although he gave Trevor a mocking look while standing, he silently prepares tea for three on the table.


    I guess Opal, who is originally my mistress, should make tea, but I knew no one was going to.


    Eventually, as Romit leaves the study, Hubert opens his mouth again like he was in a hurry.


    "So what are you trying to say until you bring this person all the way here? Are you dissatisfied with the Duke? Apparently, you leaked your dissatisfaction with the Duke''s lack of prosperity and went to visit the city of Novoli."


    "... who asked you that?


    "It''s Omer. He wrote to me as soon as you left for Novoli. I guess he also thought I had an obligation to report on you. Omar is serious and he''ll be in touch with something."


    To Hubert''s words, Opal almost laughed.


    Did you think you deserved to be trusted because you would contact me in earnest?


    Then Hubert is too pure and immature.


    Trevor leaning over and coughing seems to be deluding the laughter.


    "Now let me be honest with you from me. I don''t trust Omar. They say there has been no disaster in the Duke''s territory in the last few years. So I was wondering if Omer was embezzling..."


    "This is ridiculous! You don''t have to say any more!


    "But in fact, we found evidence. Omer put embezzled money into gambling and even owed it."


    "Is that what you''re saying? If you put your hands together with the guy there, you''ll be able to fabricate evidence like that and more! Omer is someone my late father trusted and hired. I can''t believe you worked for the Duke''s house for years, fooling him, etc!


    It was Opal who was incredible.


    I don''t even try to listen to Opal at all, it''s ridiculous to clean up and yell at Hubert in a nutshell.


    Apparently Trevor is also a rare surprise.


    On the contrary, Hubert seems to be getting more and more excited with his own voice.


    "Surely, both here and that land were saved with your money. But the name is mine, and it will always be mine! I decide who to hire. I''m not going to let you, Count, be good! I''m done talking. You need to get out of here!


    "... ok. Now if you''ll excuse me."


    I''m sure Hubert was in a bad mood.


    Opal thought favourably that something might have happened to Stella after a while.


    After a while, I was wondering if Hubert would calm down and listen.


    Opal, who left the study with that in mind, changed his mind with his eyes on Stella and Mrs. Northam on the other side of the hallway.


    You heard Hubert yelling, Stella had a very mean grin, and the lady had a satisfying grin.


    "Oh, that''s the rumor...?


    "Yeah, that''s right. But I''m sorry. I can''t introduce you. Because my husband tells me not to see her."


    "You look like a much mean angel. I may be careless to say this, but is that person''s life really at stake?


    "Why?"


    "Because it doesn''t look very like it. If you''re an old-fashioned attending physician, aren''t you pretty much being called in your old age? You might want to see another doctor once."


    "... right. When your husband''s in a good mood, I''ll give him a suggestion. More than that, I''m really sorry. You said you had come to King''s Capital because of this, but this is what happened."


    Opal and Trevor whispered as they headed to the front door.


    I''m also angry that Romit, the butler, isn''t going to show up at all.


    "It doesn''t matter. You''ve also had a mood swing trip to Wang Du. Recently, the Earl Territory has been too well and bored. So, what do you do to convince the Duke? You may bring Omar, or the butler of the consulate in the Duke''s territory... may I have Lind testify?


    Trevor, who came all the way to the front door, said so and stopped.


    My servant opens the door and waits, just asking me to go home soon.


    Opal was just a little lost, and replied with a chuckle.


    "... yeah, I don''t mind that anymore. I just think I''ll be back in Count''s territory in a while. I want you to think about if there''s a new admin candidate by then, if possible."


    "- Okay. I... we''re on the lady''s side. We support this battle."


    "Thank you, Trevor. Well, be careful."


    I don''t know how far my servant was listening, but Opal did.


    Trevor also leaves the mansion with clear words of encouragement.


    Opal pulled right into the attic as he dropped off at the front door until the carriage Trevor boarded turned the corner.


    No butler, no Hubert, no one will show up by then.


    And Opal, who sat in front of the crude desk, reflected that it was a bad way to put it then.


    Omer was the caretaker hired by Hubert''s father, and fooling him would have been the same as fooling the previous Duke.


    If the previous Duke was still alive, I don''t know what would have happened to Omer.


    I felt sympathy for Hubert again, but I still thought so, and Opal wrote a letter.


    The reply arrived the next morning, and Opal, surprised at the speed, cut the seal and read it immediately.


    "I''m going out this afternoon, so I need you to prepare a visit."


    "Where are you?


    "... I wonder why I have to tell you where I''m going. Hey, Beth?


    "Sa, I offered you something. Forgive me."


    "I forgive you."


    With the usual opal, I wouldn''t say this to anyone, but patience was the limit when I looked at Beth''s face, which has always been grumpy.


    I don''t know if Beth can read the letters, but maybe she realized the sender was a man.


    I wonder if that''s why you''ve asked questions like this now.


    For example, Romit should be aware that this sender is a man and can also be considered to report to Hubert.


    That prediction seemed to hit, and Opal was called off by Hubert as he tried to get a carriage ready to go out.


    "Where are you going?


    "... why ask such a question if you have never shown any interest in my behavior before?


    "Because it''s a carriage with the family crest of the Duke''s house, and I don''t have trouble seeing a man. Sneak up on me if you want."


    "I''m sorry I didn''t meet your expectations, but it''s my uncle''s mansion I''m headed to. He hasn''t been back in King''s Capital in a long time, because you said you wanted to see my face."


    "- Then you can do it on your own!


    "Let me do that"


    The truth is, my uncle, who found out I was married, had invited Hubert with me, but I didn''t touch on that.


    They''ll say no anyway, and it was already a hassle.


    Apparently Hubert isn''t really into Opal in the first place.


    It''s not like I''m just visiting during the day, with a bag that looks heavy - because I have a bag with a borrower or something, but I don''t even realize it''s suspicious.


    Opal, who had thus visited his uncle''s house, was pleased to reunite for the first time in a year.


    But my uncle stunned and disagreed with Opal''s cut out after a while.


    I was somehow convinced of that because I complained about the status quo and vowed to protect it in the future.


    Afterwards, Opal, who promised to meet his uncle next at the consulate of the Count''s family, left the following day for the consulate of the Count''s family when he returned to the Duke''s residence.


    Opal also asked for permission to go to Count''s territory once he returned from his uncle''s mansion, but Hubert just said, "You just have to be on your own" again, not to say he wasn''t interested.


    When it comes to just being different, it''s that Cave''s attitude, the Duke''s carriage owner, had changed considerably.


    One Cave treats Opal properly as the Duchess and respects him.


    Laughing with such irony, Opal was feeling the feeling of being rough healed by the fact that he could see the consulate.

 16 16. Count Territory

    "Well! Claude, long time no see!


    "Right. I was wondering if I would see you again this year...... I didn''t think you were in Countess territory, Duchess."


    Returning to the consulate of the Count''s house, the next day, Claude, a childhood acquaintance, visited me.


    Opal was happy to let go for his first reunion in a year, but Claude is laughing somewhere.


    Surely if childhood familiarity were suddenly a wife, there would be no choice but to be confused.


    Especially since this marriage had no period of engagement and the ceremony was simple.


    "Stop it, Claude. Call me by name, as you''ve always done."


    "... so, where is the Duke?


    "Oh... My husband is in the King''s Capital. This time it''s a little... because it''s for personal use. More than that, Claude was able to successfully graduate from college, wasn''t he? Congratulations."


    "- I don''t know. Well, thanks."


    When asked about Hubert, Opal missed the point of awkwardness.


    Then Claude answered with a bitter laugh, then told me about the college funny as usual.


    Still, it''s a different air than before, I guess, because we''ve clearly changed each other''s positions.


    The Duchess and the three barons who just graduated from college.


    Opal has now become more aware of his true feelings.


    (I... I liked Claude...)


    At first he was Claude, who had come to play as a friend of his brother''s, but he let me in because Opal persisted in following him around the back.


    I missed Claude so much when she entered boarding school that I spent days crying.


    Still, I guess he understood Opal''s loneliness when he came to see me every time he took a long vacation.


    When my mother died, she attended the funeral until she left school to comfort Opal, who desperately cried.


    I was just unconsciously liding my love heart that I''m sure my father wouldn''t forgive me in Claude''s shoes.


    Also, because Claude''s mother seemed to miss Claude herself because she pushed off the opposite of her family and got married, so she couldn''t go home and seemed lonely.


    (Well, as a previous issue to be objected to, I guess I''m like my sister to Claude...... But if...)


    I always notice Opal after he can''t take it back.


    No matter how much I regret it, time moves on without going back, so Opal must also move on.


    Opal renewed his determination to do what he decided to do, trying to get through to the end, so he had to do it even if he was abandoned by this dear friend.


    "Well, it''s time for me to leave."


    "Thank you, Claude"


    "... what?


    "Come all the way to see me"


    "It''s not like you''re thanking me. Besides, we might never see each other again."


    "Can''t I see you? But if the social season starts..."


    "I''m not going to be in such a tough spot. I don''t even think you''d welcome the three boys from the poor Baron''s in the first place."


    "I don''t..."


    Claude shook his head and silenced Opal, who denied it.


    We both know very well that that is true.


    "Be happy, Opal"


    "... thanks. Claude, be happy."


    "I''ll try. - Bye!


    Leaving the same parting words as usual, Claude popped out the front door.


    It''s something I know on my own, and I wave to Opal to drop him off and run to the stables.


    Claude''s mansion doesn''t take a moment with a horse from here.


    Opal wanted to ask Claude what he was going to do, but in the end he remained speechless.


    Sighing deeply, as Opal returned to his living room, Trevor came in after Knock.


    "How was Master Claude?


    "Yeah. But I knew it wouldn''t work out the way it used to. I don''t think so."


    "I guess that''s no choice. By the way, it''s about the Duke''s administrator..."


    "Did you find anyone good?


    "That''s pretty tough. The Duke hasn''t forgiven you for firing Omer in the first place, so you can''t recruit him in large measure."


    "Right...... Now, as Omer''s deputy, I owe you one of your men, but it''s a problem when things go wrong."


    "So, what about putting Mr. Omer back? So you just have to check with Mr. Trevor on a regular basis."


    As Opal and Trevor were discussing it, Naja, who had been holding back in the corner, pinched her mouth in a bare manner.


    It''s not supposed to be forgiven, but Opal doesn''t care.


    However, its content was unfortunately not achievable.


    "Naja''s plan is very good, but I can''t actually do it."


    "Why not?


    "Now, as a first aid, Trevor was originally hired by his father - the Earl of Holloway - although I, the Duchess'' mistress, am in the shape of having Trevors help me. Yet it would be a breach of contract with your father to have you supervise even the Duke''s territory, and your father would be considered an act of transgression into another territory."


    "You''re right, Naja. But thanks to you, I came up with a good idea."


    Explaining at the rate Opal gave up, Trevor agrees.


    But soon I smiled at my burnt face in the sun and said something reliable.


    "What kind of plan is that?


    "You''re right, Naja, you''re bringing Omer back to Duke territory. I looked at the books of the past, but when the previous Duke was alive, Omer seemed to have managed the territory well. You have the ability, so you won''t have the hands to not use it. And we just need the lady to oversee Omer."


    "Me?


    "Yes, the Duke doesn''t seem to be interested in your territory, and there should be no problem. Ladies don''t really like Wang Du either, do they? The place is different, but why not just relax on the Duke''s territory?


    "So is that..."


    Upon hearing Trevor''s suggestion, Opal conceived.


    It''s very different in size, but it was originally planned to live on land inherited from my grandmother.


    To this end, I have also learned from Trevor how to manage territory.


    Suddenly it''s difficult if one opal manages it, but maybe he can supervise Omer.


    Besides, if Opal goes according to his plan, Opal will inevitably live in Duke territory.


    "I''m a little unsure, but it''s worth a try.... By the way, how''s that Omer? Do you work properly?


    "Yes, I guess, but I don''t try to escape, I help with farming. And then if you can stop gambling about bad habits like this, you''ll be a good administrator."


    "Now consider positively returning Omer to Duke territory. Precisely how to stop the escape."


    Opal seemed to see a bright future in the Duke''s territory, joking and finishing the story.


    Later, I have to get through my uncle''s visit tomorrow.


    Even if my uncle doesn''t disagree, he still hasn''t agreed with me.


    The following day, the consulates were pleased to welcome their uncle, who had come to visit us as promised.


    The visit of my uncle, my late mother''s brother, was not since my mother''s funeral, but because I used to come and visit her often.


    The troubled smile of his greatly welcomed uncle reminded Opal of his happiness when his mother was alive.


    (If your mother is still here...)


    Opal notices himself feeling weak, squeezing his hand all the way through to temper him.


    Then we moved the place to the study, and the discussions between Trevor and the three of us that were advanced were held along the way with Omer as well, and we managed to wrap it up.


    It was a long time since my uncle and I had dinner that night and listened to various foreign stories.


    In the kingdom of Tysey, a short while before crossing the sea, the plague spread and even the king died, apparently.


    He said that the confusion was multiplied by a successor dispute between the bastards of the previous king and his brother, who was developing into a civil war.


    Despite his rightful successor being King''s brother, several of the leading aristocrats are said to be in charge of the prince, the common son.


    "Where the plague has finally converged, there shouldn''t be time for a successor fight or anything."


    "Was your uncle okay?


    "Oh, by the time the plague started spreading, I was already in another country. I''m just wondering if the prince is real. I met His Royal Highness Brother Wang once, but he was a very fine man. I guess that''s why it''s in the way for the nobles with one thing in their bellies. The problem is that the sad love between the previous king and the general woman was most likely spread as a rumor, with the sick and exhausted people on their side. As it is, the reign of His Royal Highness the King will be in jeopardy."


    "That''s why I can''t believe it could develop into a war..."


    "The Kingdom of Tysey is well resourced and technologically advanced, so its rights are great. There is no choice but for the greedy to make a leap, but if it were to be a battle, it would also greatly affect the development of our country. I hope we can at least avoid the battle..."


    "Is there any way? I wish I knew that prince was a fake."


    "Here, Opal. It''s not clear yet, and you can''t put it in your mouth like that anywhere else."


    "I know. Even I grew up, so I wouldn''t act stupid like I used to."


    My uncle laughed bitterly as Opal said so and deliberately raised his jaw.


    Stupid behavior like old times - you must have realized you were talking about that fateful night club.


    "I don''t think impulsive is the same as it used to be. But from now on, I''m going to sit back in this country too, so you can always count on me if you need anything."


    "Thank you, uncle. It''s very comforting."


    Opal had a hard time sleeping in bed this night.


    Finally, the race was thrown.


    Yet Opal scoffed at Hubert''s response even so far when he realized he was putting a glimmer of hope on it.


    The results will be out in a few days.


    Later, Opal could only wait.

 17 17. Dukes residence

    A few mornings later, Opal, who was returning to the Duke''s mansion in Wangdu, went down to the ground floor, noticing the sound someone had been visiting.


    Head straight to the study and knock on the door.


    Who heard what to do, so I answered, and Romit the butler opened the door with a surprised look from inside.


    "I need to ask your husband something. Could you let me in, please?


    I had no choice but to do something like that, but Romit takes a step back and puts Opal inside.


    Then Hubert, who was sitting in front of the study desk, also looked up at Opal in surprise.


    "What can I do for you?


    "... good morning, sir. Someone seemed to be visiting earlier, so if you have guests this afternoon, I wanted to know."


    Hubert faintly blushed when he realized he didn''t even say hello.


    I guess I was ashamed to forget to be polite no matter how much I disliked them.


    But I stifle my face at once at the question of Opal that followed.


    "I shouldn''t have to report my visitors to you anyway."


    "But I''m still the mistress of this house. It''s supposed to be my job to entertain customers, so if anyone''s here, you should let me know, right?


    "If it was a visitor to you, I would naturally tell you. But this time it''s my guest. I don''t need your hospitality."


    "... what does anyone say?


    Even though Hubert was cold, Opal still ate down.


    Romit, who was watching how it went, finally leaves the study, hiding his joy in a faceless manner.


    Hubert opened his mouth in frustration about whether he had lost his guts to Opal''s perseverance.


    "Earlier only came to deliver a letter from Omer"


    "So you don''t have visitors, do you?


    "A man named Jonathan Kenzitt is going to bring paperwork with another man. But it''s none of your business just because you need my signature!


    "... that it really has nothing to do with me?


    "Oh well. You said Omar was working wrongfully. But I trust him. That''s the answer. So, will you leave now?


    You thought you were getting too hot yourself, Hubert exhaled loudly, turning into a calm voice and answering to mock Opal''s question.


    Opal discourages discouragement and snorts calmly.


    "Okay."


    Opal left the study and returned to the attic, secretly praising himself, whose voice did not tremble.


    Eventually in the afternoon, Opal did not leave the room, even when he found out that the visitors had come because he heard the carriage.


    Just sit quietly and wait.


    But without Opal being called, or the angry footsteps approaching the room, he heard the carriage again and learned that the visitors had returned.


    I should have been ready, but tears flow down Opal''s cheek.


    but Opal quickly brutally wiped his cheeks wondering if this was something he would cry about.


    The servants were pleased to hear from Beth that Opal went into bed that night without even having dinner.


    With her husband finally out strong, the intruder understood his position in this mansion.


    Hubert, on the other hand, was feeling uncomfortable.


    Wasn''t I being too rude this morning?


    He said his attitude towards her was unfair in the first place.


    Hubert was troubled while dining with Mrs. Northam, who seemed in a good mood for a long time.


    And the next day.


    Opal went out to his uncle''s mansion with dignity as if nothing had happened.


    Then to Opal, who receives the paperwork, my uncle speaks kindly.


    That I don''t have to force myself to continue my marriage.


    But Opal smiled and shook his neck sideways.


    "I''m not going to leave you like this because you got married because of something. I''m going to do what I have to do"


    "Opal...... That foolish young man isn''t worth it enough to make you that generous."


    "But we can''t abandon the people like this."


    "Right...... You look a lot like your sister."


    "I''m glad you said that."


    When Opal answered with his face down, the air between them eased.


    From there, I was told various memorabilia of my mother, and Opal followed my uncle''s mansion with pleasure.


    But Opal in the carriage gave his expression again, sending a signal to your Cave, informing him of a change of destination.


    Cave takes it on quickly.


    (I knew you weren''t hostile to me at the Duke''s mansion, about Cave...)


    But that could change things in the future.


    I was lonely to think so, but I''m going to spend most of my upcoming Opal in the consulate of the Duke''s territory, so I won''t be using the carriage this way either.


    The consulate intended to prepare a new carriage dedicated to Opal.


    And the intended Count Holloway mansion - when we arrived at Opal''s parents'' house, Opal received a great welcome.


    He hasn''t returned to the Count''s mansion in the capital since he was married.


    "I''m sorry for the sudden. Wouldn''t you be surprised?


    "It''s a pleasant surprise"


    "It stinks of water, ma''am. I can''t believe you haven''t shown your face since your marriage, even though you''ve returned to the Count''s territory many times."


    Surrounded by deacons and housekeepers, Opal burst into tears, but desperately contained and laughed.


    In fact, I''m glad.


    I just had all sorts of emotions swirling around and now I couldn''t successfully convey my joy to everyone in the mansion.


    My servant tried to pick up Opal''s bag, but refused.


    As it was, I changed my mind and asked the butler.


    "Is your father still away?


    "No, you are at home today. I am working in the study, but I have been told not to follow anyone for a while."


    "Yes...... But fine. I''ll tell him it''s not your fault."


    "Lady!?


    Upon hearing that he was lucky enough to have a father, Opal headed to the study.


    Deacon tried to pull back to surprise, but Opal just knocked lightly on the study door without stopping and went in without waiting for a response.


    My father didn''t look so surprised to hear the noise, and raised a single eyebrow to raise his face from the paperwork and ask.


    "As you heard, I walked into this room shaking it off, so you don''t have to blame anything but me"


    "I know that. So, I guess you just have a reason to convince me, huh? I''m not gonna hear ridiculous complaints about my unbearable marriage."


    "Unfortunately, I have no such thing as a married life. Just to let you know that your father would be interested in doing you a favor."


    "Hmm?"


    Opal didn''t even greet his first reunion with his father in a long time.


    But my father doesn''t look like he cared either.


    Everything remained the same as before, and Opal did not have to laugh forcibly, nor did he have to suppress his emotions towards his father.


    Clerically informing him of the purpose of the visit, he takes the paperwork out of his bag and arranges it all over the paperwork of his father on his way to work.


    "As your father used to say, here is evidence of the Duke''s ''sweetness''. Evidence of fraud on the part of the land administrator of the Duke''s territory - back book. Also a loan book of evidence that the administrator was into gambling."


    "I know that. So, your husband finally realized that?


    "Then why do they think these are here? The Duke didn''t believe me when I complained about the caretaker''s wrongdoing. I tried to get Trevor to be my witness, but the Duke apparently thought we were trying to take over Duke territory."


    "- I see. Your husband wasn''t ''sweet'', he was'' stupid ''."


    "Would you stop describing me as your husband? Your father chose it, didn''t he? Because it''s none of my business."


    The Count was just as surprised by this word of Opal.


    There have been many times before that I wish Opal had been my son.


    My daughter looks like my only daughter at first glance, but she is inherently quite smart and has guts.


    Instead of his oldest son fluttering in college, how did you think to let Opal inherit a trace - something other than the title?


    For this reason, as a lady, she has also been made to wear an upbringing that is not necessary.


    Even when Opal made his social debut, he didn''t intend to let boring men as well as wealth-seeking men daughter-in-law.


    That is no longer the position to choose by that scandal.


    The Count was quite angry at Opal''s indiscretion, but on the contrary thought of something interesting.


    When Opal and the Duke first danced, the Earl, who was aware that they were attracted to each other, decided to let the Duke daughter-in-law Opal for a good reason.


    If Opal marries the Duke''s house, he''ll soon notice the problem.


    Opal is tough in character, but also thick in emotion.


    At first we should rebel, and even if we had no choice, the Duke and I should try to rebuild our territory.


    In time, something like love may also arise.


    That''s what I was thinking, but the Count''s prospect seems to have come off.


    The Duke was intrigued by what he had done, such as making Opal throw up cold words so far, but he didn''t say it.


    But at the end of the day, he dropped his gaze on the paperwork Opal had placed, and the Count opened his eyes.


    "... are you sure this is it?


    "I... stopped dreaming. No matter how long he waited, the prince on the white horse didn''t come to help. So I decided to take the white horse and move myself."


    "Don''t you think the prince and the white horse were holding back?


    "Yes?"


    "No...... So, what''s a favor?


    "First, I want you to keep these documents in this safe."


    "Hmm. That would certainly be a good idea. Let''s take it. But there seems to be something else?


    "Yes, the other one�� If the Duke begs to teach, please accept it"


    "... fine. It''s suspicious if that foolish young man will come to me when he wakes up, but let''s accept it when he does."


    "Thank you. Well, thank you."


    Opal laughed bitterly as he thanked him.


    My father and uncle refer to Hubert as a foolish young man.


    Unfortunately, after the Count''s mansion, Opal returned to the Duke''s mansion, wondering if he was right.

 18 18. Documents

    On his return to the Duke''s residence, it was almost time for dinner, and Romit the butler and the housekeeper gave him an annoying look.


    Still, Opal didn''t care, and told him he would have dinner with the Huberts and ordered the surprised Romites to drop Beth off in the guest room to help him change.


    Then I''m thirsty, so I add that I bring tea too.


    Both Romit and the housekeeper hid their anger and each began to move.


    (Well, I guess it''s better around still trying to hide my anger...)


    When I entered the guest room, a grumpy look of Beth arrived some time later.


    Besides, the tea apparatus makes a tall noise because of the rampant placement of the tray I had.


    "Beth, if I don''t know what you''re upset about, but that tea vessel is missing a little, can I pay you back?


    "My husband has not been blamed for the failure of our servants."


    "If it''s a normal failure. But I don''t think my husband here would be happy if there was something that would deliberately treat me as abusive and crack."


    Beth said nothing to Opal''s words, but a defiant gaze tells the story of the mood.


    I didn''t care, so Opal sipped the tea and glanced at me.


    As soon as possible, Beth gives you a look like that.


    "Can''t you make tea satisfactorily, too? This is very sinister. And warm. If this keeps happening, you''d better find a new job. I''ll write you a good reference then. He says he''s bad at making tea."


    "Hey, what do you look great..."


    Opal, who had stopped putting up with him, told Beth to stay high.


    Never before had such an attitude toward a servant, but I thought the men of the Duke''s mansion needed no care or anything.


    Beth turned her face bright red and answered her mouth, which Opal controlled with one hand up.


    "In fact, I''m great. Because I''m the mistress here, and you''re hired here. You can quit if you don''t want to admit it. In that case, I have nothing to do with you and me trying to meet you on some street corner or in some mansion. That''s why I don''t have to tell you how great I am anymore. Come on, go ahead, do as you please. I''m gonna wear a scarlet dress for dinner today, but you''re gonna prepare it? You won''t?


    Beth was shaking blue, but when she heard Opal''s words like an ultimatum, she went into the clothing room with regret.


    And start preparing silently.


    "Yes, yes. If you can talk to Romit about me later, there''s something I need you to tell him. At the tea table after dinner, I''ll tell my husband and Mrs. Northam an important story. But it concerns you, too, so anyone interested as well as Romit will be in the living room."


    Including a grin, Opal told him, Beth stopped her hand, which was combing Opal''s hair so hard that it hurt.


    He seems surprised to hear that anyone of his servants can be present at their masters conversation.


    But when Opal and I met each other in the mirror, I must have pulled my lips together and nodded.


    "... Yes, sir."


    After a short while, Beth whispered her acceptance.


    They finally felt strange about an opal with an unprecedented vigorous attitude.


    But Opal is ready now.


    Hubert, of course, must inform Mrs Northam and the servants that Opal does not intend to be spoiled by this situation.


    Those who change their attitudes will also be given generous treatment.


    Opal stood up, frightened by the uproar that would be happening, and headed to his dinner seat.


    When he entered the room, Hubert, who had taken his seat first, stood up, but never escorted to his seat.


    Mrs. Northam stays seated, but without worrying, Opal sees Hubert''s trendy jacket and thinks it doesn''t matter that you''ve re-tailored your clothes as well.


    And to Opal, who took his seat, Hubert just started attacking.


    "What are you going to do? You threatened to fire Beth earlier, didn''t you?


    "You''re a lot faster, aren''t you? But that information is incorrect"


    "How?


    "I didn''t threaten you, because I mean it. As I thought before, this servant is influenced by his or her personal feelings and is not performing his or her duties fully. I couldn''t fix it after a few cautions about Beth, until I made a recommendation that this was the last time."


    "What... you have no right to..."


    "Yes. I am the mistress of this mansion. Originally, my discretion about what to do with a servant is my job, and it''s not like my husband cares."


    "Become..."


    Hubert jammed his words into a clearly out-of-the-box Opal attitude that he felt stronger than ever before.


    Until then, Mrs. Northam, who was laughing and watching what was going on, has a pompous mouth open.


    The maid of service and her servant looked pale, and Romit, the butler who was pouring wine, pulled the bottle out of the glass once, either to contain the tremor in his hands.


    Realizing the situation, Hubert coughs up.


    "- We shouldn''t talk like this in front of everyone."


    "It was my husband who started it. Besides, it looks like it''s already in your ear, so you may not need to tell me, but I have an important story to tell you in the living room after this meal. As we have also told Beth, it concerns the servants of this mansion, so anyone interested will be gathered. Please, don''t be offended."


    "What the hell..."


    "You''ll see about that later. Now you should enjoy your meal."


    Protected by the title Duke before, and never told so strongly by others, Hubert eventually proceeded to eat without saying anything more.


    But he really cares, peeking at Opal all the time.


    Does Mrs. Northam not get her meal through her throat, either, and the food on the plate has barely diminished.


    Opal ate well unlike the other two.


    "So shall we have tea in the living room first?


    "Yeah..."


    When the meal was over and Opal stood up and spoke, Mrs. Northam nodded anxiously.


    Then Hubert gets up, too.


    "I''m going to get you some tea today as well"


    "... Really?"


    You want to hear about Opal soon, Hubert seems to be wasting his time enjoying alcohol and stuff.


    But Opal was going to go back to his room once and for all to pick up the important things needed for this discussion.


    "Mrs. Northam, I''ll get what''s back in the room once, so could I ask you to prepare some tea?


    "Yeah, yeah. Okay."


    Mrs. Northam answered in a quiet manner, and Hubert narrowed her eyes suspiciously.


    Opal left the room with that gaze on his back and went back to the guest room, and when he took a few documents out of the lightened bag, he entered the living room.


    "Sorry to keep you waiting"


    A few servants and maids, such as Romit, housekeeper and Beth, were already standing in the living room waiting.


    Hubert and Mrs. Northam are sitting on the couch and neither of them seem to be keeping their mouths shut on the tea.


    Opal was in front of another cup prepared - and when he sat across from Hubert, he just cut it out.


    "Beginning yesterday, this mansion, as well as all the property of the Duke''s house, such as the Duke''s territory, consulate located in the territory, has become mine. - So I will give you five days'' respite, and in the meantime decide whether to leave here or stay."


    Turning the first word to Hubert and Mrs. Northam, then to the servants, Opal declared.


    Hubert reveals his anger as soon as possible.


    "What a fool! Sure, this is - the Duke''s house was brought back by your bribe. Because you have no right! Say something stupid, don''t upset everyone!


    "Did you bring it back? That''s not true. The Duke''s house, by my money, was just temporarily outdone. I still believe Omer''s words, ''Next year is the year'', and he borrowed money to encumber your territory and outraged you... How talkative is that money lender? But if you stay like this, you''ll have to be in debt again soon."


    Shamed in front of the servants, Hubert was blushing with humiliation.


    Opal, by contrast, is only calm.


    With such a chilling look on Opal''s face, Hubert seems to have been increasingly angered.


    I ordered my voice to be absurd like never before.


    "Get out! I''ll be separated from you already! Get out of here now!


    "Sir, if you''re going to get separated, it''s up to you to leave. Yesterday afternoon, my husband signed a document stating he was transferring all the land mansions to me."

 19 19. Documents

    The room quieted back for a moment to Opal''s shocking words.


    But soon, Hubert laughs with his nose.


    "Don''t be ridiculous. What I signed yesterday was a document from Omer..."


    "That wasn''t a document created by Omer. Your husband is at liberty to trust Omar, but why didn''t you get a good look at what you would sign? I don''t wonder what my husband always does in his study"


    "Wow, I studied... you wouldn''t know, but I learned a lot in college. There are some interesting lessons I learned at that time."


    Hubert was now completely losing momentum.


    You must be worried that Opal pointed me out and didn''t confirm the contents of the documents I signed.


    I postpone reality by talking about it, such as academia.


    "Sure, it''s great to deepen academics. But the time when the Aristocrats could live gracefully without work is about to come to an end. My current husband had people to feed and a land to manage. Was it worth enough to throw it all to learn? You think that discipline will generate money?


    "What a nasty woman! Immediately convert to gold, etc!


    "Of course, money is not everything in the world. But in order to live, you need money, regardless of your status. My husband was able to repay his debts by marrying me. With a blessing from my father, I can cover the immediate cost of living. But then what? You think your husband would create money on his own in that vast territory where he was never tried to look?


    "Everyone said this year that every region will be rich"


    "Everybody?"


    "A friend. My irreplaceable friends who spent their college years with me."


    "So they must have managed their territory well, or they must have hired a really good administrator. And you have a good look at the administrator''s report"


    It didn''t matter to Opal what discipline Hubert was interested in.


    The important thing is that we''re going to.


    Hubert is still trying to escape somehow, even though Opal is poking reality at him more and more.


    Suppressing his feelings of disappointment again, Opal put a decisive reality - evidence before Hubert.


    "This is the same document your husband signed yesterday afternoon. I really keep what my husband has signed in the safe properly, so if those here don''t leak it outside, the public won''t know.... as long as you don''t stay away from me"


    Listening to Opal''s words, Hubert tried to say something, but in the end he dropped his gaze on the paperwork and took it into horrible hands.


    As if I were afraid to face reality.


    And then slowly he goes through his eyes, and then he blues.


    "This... this is a lie!


    "True."


    "Well, even so, how about this? This, this... taking all the wealth away from me, His Majesty the King can''t forgive you either!


    It seemed that all those who had been watching Opal and Hubert''s exchanges, those who had been spitting and watching, those who thought Opal''s lies anyway, had finally come to know reality.


    Everyone blues at Hubert''s words, and some of them are about to fall and supported.


    For Mrs. Northam, she was shaking violently when she shrugged.


    "Unfortunately, that can''t be. I looked it up and there were no conditions under the McCloud Duke''s house regulations for the transfer of mansions or land other than the Duke''s. That''s why I''ve been able to collateralize my debt so far...... The paperwork was prepared by an official royal court attorney, and the husband signed it in front of them."


    "Oh, the attorney of the royal palace...?


    "Jonathan Kenzitt is a well-known law clerk whose Majesty is very trusted. I have been going to another country for the past year or so on His Majesty''s orders...... If you''re in your husband''s shoes, it shouldn''t be strange not only to have a name, but to have a familiar face. And you didn''t know."


    "Well, that''s... Omer wrote to me..."


    Now Hubert''s face could be described as pale.


    The righteous face is distorted by a sense of grandeur.


    Opal continued in a strange mood that you had thought this man nice even temporarily.


    "I don''t think Omer wrote a word in his letter that he had two visitors and that it was his errand?


    "How do you know that? I guess you set it up!?


    "Isn''t that obvious?


    "Become!?


    With Opal''s full admission, Hubert lost his word.


    Some servants stare with hatred at Opal.


    "Again and again, Omer was wrongdoing. I have proof of that, and I can even swap Omer''s debt again. So I ordered Omer to write that letter."


    "What a coward!


    "Dastardly? You make a lot of out-of-the-box accusations. My husband was overthrown with a complaint about my Omer. If you had listened to me at that time, even if it was only a few, would you have doubted me about this letter? Didn''t they at least scrutinize the contents of the paperwork? Indeed, it would have seemed like a mere report at first glance, as the documents first lined up the names of the territories, each with details of the expected revenues, etc. But if you looked right through the end, you would have noticed that my name was on it and it was strange."


    "Wow, I said I trust Omar. You took advantage of it!


    "Yeah, I used it. But I''ve checked with my husband many times, haven''t I? Are you sure visitors have nothing to do with me?"


    "That''s... you wouldn''t think it had anything to do with it!


    Opal turned his sad grin to Hubert, who yelled in agony.


    Then he returns to his faceless face and exhales in a deep sigh.


    "My husband, you weren''t really interested in me. All you need is a bribe."


    "What do you want now?"


    "Jonathan Kenzitt is my maternal uncle. I didn''t even know..."


    "So, you cheated on me with your family groom! I still thought it was strange. I''ll just marry you, give you that much money, etc... Again, I''m suing you!


    "So I say that''s futile. There are no deficiencies in the same thing as this document. It''s not supposed to be necessary, but my uncle and I - because Jonathan Kenzitt is related to blood - have asked you to be present with a colleague of your uncle, who is a third party in order to be fair. Please give up because his signature is also on the real papers."


    Opal turned his gaze closer to pity to Hubert, who had no longer lost his word altogether.


    Hubert is just stupid.


    The cause would have been that no one taught him the duties and responsibilities he deserved for his position, having succeeded to the Duke at an early age.


    "My uncle probably also asked when we visited. About me."


    It was Romit, the butler, who was much more breathtaking about the words.


    Yesterday, when I guided the two visitors to the study, one turned to Hubert and said, "Is your wife home? I watched him ask."


    Moreover, despite the fact that the two named themselves on the doorstep, Romit, who thought it was just a use from Omer, had easily listened.


    One of them said it was the name of the sender of the letter he received the other day to Opal.


    "My uncle and I didn''t dare to tell each other about the relationship, but if we had actually met, the relationship would have been obvious. �� even if you don''t think you''re related, you suspect there''s something there, and you''ve been cautious about the paperwork."


    Although Opal told him about himself and his uncle, he added, remembering his rumors.


    "My uncle was against this plan at first, too. But it says something that you can understand if you look through it properly, so your husband can''t be unaware of it. And that''s when he was worried about the anger that was coming at me."


    Talking about Kenzit embarrassed Hubert.


    Being the Duke, he didn''t even know the name of the royal court''s legal officer and signed the paperwork in front of them.


    The same was true of how incompetent I was, exposed under the daytime.


    "As I said earlier, if my husband is to be asked, I will respond to estrangement. What will you do? My husband now has nothing but the Duke, will you stay away from me? And also remarry a woman with a new fortune? Even now, the Duke is - the title is an attractive thing you can''t buy with money, so I''m sure you''ll close your eyes to the liabilities that come with it. I just don''t know if that would be more generous to a defiant servant or a relative with no maintenance obligations...... Or do you work for them? If I ask your friend, will he introduce me to some kind of work?


    In Opal''s words, those here have finally woken up.


    Until now, we realized that we were intoxicated by stories featuring the unfortunate Duke and Stella.


    Everyone tried to pity Cave when he complained that his wife deserved proper respect.


    Cave said it was the right thing to do.


    Our own future is held by a woman who implicitly told her husband, the Duke, that she was in debt - the Duchess.


    The indoors were now completely quiet, and no one looked at Opal frightened like a demon or something without saying anything.


    "Wow, I..."


    "And one more thing, my will earlier, I created my uncle as a witness. If I die, all my property will be donated to several charities."


    "Become..."


    Hubert, who was flabbergasted, reacted, probably not because of the fate of Opal''s legacy, but because he clearly told it.


    I was shocked to hear you say it was useless to kill yourself.


    Still, I didn''t care for Opal, so I erased my emotions and asked him again.


    "Come on, sir, what will you do? Will you stay away from me and get out of here? Or will you stay?

 20 20. Documents

    "Oh, you... you want to get this far and continue your marriage with me?


    "... Yes?


    Opal was unwittingly dismayed by Hubert''s words after a period of silence.


    Then, the momentum erupts well.


    I can''t stop laughing at the idea of not clapping too much.


    Both Hubert and Mrs. Northam are surprised to see such an opal.


    Opal managed to stop laughing and took several deep breaths before finally opening his mouth.


    "I''m sorry. It was such an unexpected word, so... To be honest, I have been wondering from the beginning of my marriage if I could somehow be separated from my husband. But I didn''t think of it because I had an untrained title: husband or duchess. Just so we''re clear, I don''t care about this mansion."


    Saying, Opal turned his gaze around to Romit and Beth.


    Romit isn''t even supposed to be hot, but he''s sweating, and Beth''s eyes are vain and there''s no blood on his face.


    "... it''s just that I feel sorry for the inhabitants who have no sins whatsoever - those whose husbands never looked at them. When I went to the Duke''s Lands, the inhabitants lived in very poor conditions compared to the Count''s. That''s also because of Omer''s nasty management, which her husband trusts. Even though farm equipment has turned into something a lot more convenient over the past decade, those who are working still used farm tools from previous eras and struggled unnecessarily. So I''m going to live in a consulate and manage my territory, so if your husband wants to stay married, please live in this mansion."


    Opal told Hubert, blushing with shame or anger.


    And turns a deliberately loving grin on Mrs. Northam.


    "Mrs. Northam will allow you to live here with your daughter, too. Of course, you''re free to leave or stay."


    "What a woman... Stella is sick!?


    "Yeah. So we''re saying we can live here as a residence?


    I don''t think I''m cold myself.


    Still, Opal ghosted his mind and made reality - clear his future position in this mansion.


    Of course, even when I said that Hubert and Mrs Northam were leaving, I intended to give them a minimum amount of assistance for their lives.


    I intend to bring a letter of recommendation to the servants.


    "Wow, I don''t have anywhere to go if I... get kicked out of here... But I''m fine. Just put Stella... just put Stella here!


    The appearance of Mrs. Northam, who complains in tears, seems to have invited everyone''s sympathy.


    Opal was frightened, but he didn''t put it into words.


    Hubert, who stood up there, takes refuge in hiding his wife from Opal.


    "We... let''s stay here for Stella. I can''t think about taking Stella anywhere but this mansion. So, please, let me show you mercy."


    Hubert pleaded in a manner that was as if he were trying to protect Stella even at the expense of offering his own neck to the enemy.


    Romit, the housekeepers, Beth and the others are weeping and watching how it goes.


    Opal wondered where the hell they were showing cheap plays.


    "�� So if you want to stay here, you''re saying it''s okay, right? Subject to conditions."


    Opal exhaled relieved when he was finally able to touch the core.


    But the Huberts will have the same look they told me to give them my neck.


    Earlier I was ready - I don''t want that, but I wondered what it was, and Opal continued.


    "Dr. Harrison, the Duke''s attending physician, seems to be elderly, so Stella will see another doctor as well"


    "What are you talking about!? Dr. Harrison has been seeing Stella ever since she was a little girl!? There''s no doctor but Dr. Harrison who knows about Stella!


    Mrs. Northam bites on Opal''s raised terms.


    It seemed a lie to mourn until now, and Opal was slightly soothed by the way he tried to protect his daughter as a mother.


    Nevertheless, I had no intention of changing what I had decided.


    "Even so, you''ll be examined. Nothing is meant to dismiss Dr. Harrison. Right now, medicine is pretty advanced, too. But I also hear that some doctors don''t really stick to old-fashioned treatments, they couldn''t save lives, etc. Don''t worry, I''m not the one to choose about doctors. If you referred me to your husband''s friend, wouldn''t you be trustworthy?


    When Opal turned his gaze to Hubert as he inquired, he was surprisingly narrowing his eyes.


    As if trying to measure its sincerity.


    "Of course, I will bear the cost of medical care. After that, if you guys are gonna stay here like this, I''m gonna pay you a decent wage for the job."


    When Opal told the servants who stood anxiously, he heard several people whining, "Good......"


    Looks like Romit immediately shut his mouth.


    "Okay, you guys can back off now. Make up your mind in five days."


    When Opal told him grandiose, the Romites hesitated for a moment, but left in a gracious manner.


    And only three remained in the living room: Opal, Hubert and Mrs. Northam.


    "Well, shall we discuss something else?"


    "Do you still have it?


    "Isn''t it weirder without it? How much money do you think you need to live? We''re in a privileged position, but we''re still frustrated and not money gushing without doing anything. Think about how much money has gone to waste because your husband ever needed you without doing anything. If Omer had the money he put into gambling, his husband would not have been in debt and he would not have had to marry me. And they should have been able to give it back to the people."


    To Opal''s words, Hubert silenced.


    That look was rude, but I know it wasn''t directed at Opal.


    Perhaps you regret what you''ve done so far.


    I was about to pity Opal for a moment, but I hurried to tighten my feelings.


    Hubert is not a child who has just lost his parents, he is an adult male of twenty-six years of age.


    If you don''t show me your guts here, there''s nothing I can do.


    "As I said earlier, this mansion has become my property, so I will pay for wages and maintenance to my servants. And cover your husbands'' living expenses - food, clothing, and medical expenses as well. Apart from that, my husband will also need social expenses as a duke, etc., so I will give you a small par value allowance"


    "... that it''s an allowance?


    "Cash, would you have preferred to say?


    "Are you making fun of me?


    "I''m sorry. I don''t know how to describe giving money to people who don''t have it... I wonder if I can just give it to you... because we are a couple. Even if all the property belongs to my wife and I can''t be allowed to share."


    Opal''s chosen language was as if to surround his mistress, and seemed to be dealing with children.


    Hubert becomes more humiliated than ever by Opal''s demeaning attitude.


    Mrs. Northam just sat back and sat back, twitching and staring at the door, saying she could no longer be here.


    In the end, however, Hubert seems to endure a strong grip on his fist without hitting Opal with anger.


    "It''s the money I give to my husband, so it doesn''t matter how you spend it. Trying to get excited about playing in a gentlemen''s club, going to a whorehouse, trying to surround your mistress."


    "My lady!"


    I gave Lady Northam the momentum she was about to graduate from her seriously spoken opal.


    While Opal calmly thinks that for the first time Mrs. Northam called her "wife," she smiles sparingly.


    "You have no choice, do you? I''m your husband''s wife, but that''s nominal. That relationship won''t change in the future either, so it''s cheating. I''m not going to blame my husband for saying what it is or making a scene. But what we need to discuss is not that, it''s about this future mansion or territory."


    "... what?


    Hubert apparently lost his temper to be angry.


    I find myself bored, I just didn''t realize it before, and Opal thought it might be really sexually vicious.


    But the terms that I''m going to present have nothing to do with Opal''s character.


    "During my life, I am not going to let go of this property. But only for my husband, I will sell this mansion and territory at a fair price on the market."


    "But it was originally Hubert''s!


    "What''s that? It''s mine now. This also happened because of the sweetness of my husband. What do you think would have happened if Omer had stopped being able to pay his debts and worked with bad money lending to do the same thing?


    When Opal returned the truth to the protesting Lady, neither Lady nor Hubert seemed to be able to say anything.


    Rather, it would be better in this situation.


    If the Earl, the father of Opal, also cared about it, he would have been able to plunder Hubert''s property without bothering to marry Opal.


    In the first place, the current Earl of Holloway should not even need the title Duke''s stepfather, etc.


    "I offered to give my husband less money every month. You won''t even be able to save that money in the tunnel and buy back your mansion or territory. But that will take a long time. For example, why not try to increase that money even more on hand?


    "... more money, more money? Are you kidding me?


    "Come on, I''ll take care of that. Gambling or investing. It just seems like my trustee is asking my father for an opinion to increase my fortune. Where should I invest and when and when should I withdraw funds...... Because the world seems to be rumored to be the return of a king who is said to have turned everything he touched into gold."


    "You tell me to beg your father - Count Holloway - to teach?


    "That depends on your husband. Because it''s my husband''s freedom, no matter how I spend the money I give you. I just don''t think my father would refuse what his husband asked me to do. Now, what you have said this evening, please think again carefully and give us your answer within five days. I beg your pardon."


    It''s finally over.


    Opal left the living room to return to the attic, relieved that he had successfully completed this farce of the evening.


    The servants use the back stairs, but Opal uses the large stairs in front until the second floor.


    As a result, Stella, sitting in a wheelchair, came out into the hallway as she went upstairs and tried to pass in front of the master bedroom.


    "I knew you were the devil. You just took Hubert from me, or you''re gonna take Hubert''s property and try to take it all the way to where you live!


    "... I''m not trying to take it, I took it. But I am a kind devil, so I will have mercy on you all. Don''t hesitate, thank me."


    Opal also hated Stella''s grudge and returned it.


    I was worried I wouldn''t get sick on the inside, but apparently I''m fine.


    On the contrary, he looked well pale and cheerful, eating up his teeth regrettably and staring at Opal.


    Like Trevor said, Opal laughs and passes by Stella, thinking the suggestion to see another doctor was the right one.


    And as I went up the stairs for the servants and into the attic, the room was warmed, the bed was lined with mattresses, and the futon had been turned into a duvet.


    Probably have rooms for Opal as well.


    Opal lay tired on a small but warm bed, thinking that apparently some servants had answered.

 21 21. Investment

    Two days after the proclamation of Opal, Hubert visited the attic.


    But I just look around uncommonly for a moment and don''t talk about the matter.


    Apparently I''m surprised at how crude old beds, desks and chairs are just being pushed into a room with low and narrow ceilings.


    "... Sir, what can I do for you?


    "No, I... I''ve been thinking about what you told me last night."


    "So you''ve come to a conclusion?


    "Oh."


    Opal asked what he had figured out when he waited in silence and wasting his time.


    Hubert then hesitates to answer.


    Hubert nodded with a serious look as Opal urged him to continue, thinking it wasn''t a bad reaction in this way.


    "About this one...... I deplored how arrogant and stupid I was. Originally, I wouldn''t be eligible to take your generous offer. But from now on, I''m going to change my mind, beg the Count to teach with your assistance, and do my best. And let''s pledge to buy the land back from you as soon as possible"


    "... ok"


    A little great, but I guess this is Hubert.


    More important than that was Hubert''s determination, to answer pale, yet Opal was considerably relieved inside.


    If Hubert wasn''t going to change his mind, he was going to push him further into a situation where he had to work.


    Of course, I doubted how long this vow would last, but Opal nevertheless decided to believe it for the first time.


    "So now that you want to move on with the process, are you sure you want to go ahead?


    "- Oh. So... nice to meet you, please"


    "I''ll tell you more later"


    Hubert still wanted to say something, but Opal ended the conversation by responding clerically.


    And when Hubert leaves, he exhales with relief and writes to his father no sooner.


    To my father who pressed Hubert, now I''m glad I can push him back.


    But Opal, who was wrapped up in a little sense of liberation, was to be annoyed after this by the visits of the servants to utter words of reflection from next to next and to pledge new loyalties.


    But not about Romit and Beth.


    Opal has already hired a new butler and several servants, and if Romit quits, that''s fine, he was going to put himself in the position of assistant to the new butler if he''s going to stay.


    As for Beth''s treatment, there was no need for an opaled maid, and she was going to be demoted to a senior maid if she was going to stay.


    And when I finally told him about it, neither Romit nor Beth gave me a humiliating look, but I didn''t say I was quitting.


    (What, you''re like this...)


    Opal, who thought he''d be more defiant, was clapping out.


    In the end, they were both under Hubert''s protection.


    Thus a detailed procedure was completed in the attic, exactly five days later, Opal finally followed the Duke''s residence.


    "Uh, neat!


    Opal, who was dropped off by new deacons and servants, including Hubert, shouted one small person in the carriage.


    It''s Cave who sends me to the consulate of the Duke''s territory, and his wages are up twice as high as ever.


    Cave tried to resign in total awe, but it was actually too little so far.


    Also, the newly hired butler is my uncle''s tattoo, and from now on, the Duke''s residence will change.


    His assessment of the other servants is at his disposal.


    As for Mrs. Northam and Stella, I never saw her during the five days she was stuck in the attic, but honestly, I didn''t care.


    It''s Hubert''s problem about that parent and child, and it''s none of Opal''s business.


    More than that, Opal awaits the rewarding task of reforming vast territories.


    Thinking it was Omer''s reform first, Opal was rocked by a carriage to go all the way through the former Duke of McCloud territory.


    - Three years later.


    Opal put a few cards he had on the table and sighed deeply.


    "I lost. My loss......"


    "Apparently, you do. Now, the wife will do the bookkeeping for this month, please."


    "Unbelievable...... I wonder what I''m hiring you for with a high wage."


    "That''s to bring out the rewards of our servants."


    "For that, it was unhelpful."


    "You don''t need any help fighting, do you?


    Whether he was comforting or making fun of the moaning opal, Omer replied as he collected the cards on the table.


    Card games have been a habit since Opal moved to the consulate.


    He played card games every night with Deacon Lind and others to distract himself from Omer''s vices when he returned to the janitor.


    What you bet on is domestic labor, etc.


    At first it seemed pretty scarce, it was a softening omer, but the surveillance eyes were tight and I couldn''t get to the city of Novoli, and gradually the excitement to bet a lot of money seemed to have drawn me away.


    For this reason, I now enjoy card games, etc. as a real play.


    Omer is still a good administrator if he is serious, and Opal is often taught as well.


    Of course, from the high wages, Opal had the money loaned back a little bit.


    "Oh, looks like someone''s here, huh?


    "... a letter?


    When Opal tried to get out of the study thinking it was time to move on to his afternoon job, he heard a carriage coming down the road to the hall.


    From the sound of the wheels, it would be a carriage for delivery or something.


    However, since food and other deliveries were supposed to go around the back door, Opal decided to wait in the study with an idea that he might have come to deliver the letter.


    Opal has barely left the territory in the last three years.


    Naturally, there seemed to be all sorts of rumors going around because the season never started and I never showed my face to the social world.


    Guess it''s hard to maintain Hubert''s vast territory, and this was still a marriage for property, he said.


    And things like trapping a mundane wife in the territory, or Hubert, caught in Opal''s manipulation on the contrary, doesn''t get her out of much of the territory of jealousy.


    (In the end, it doesn''t make any difference that you''re trapped...)


    Opal laughed without worrying when he heard the rumors.


    In fact, Hubert had asked me to come out to the King''s Capital many times during the season, and he had asked me to go visit a friend''s territory during the season off.


    Opal had turned it all down.


    It''s not like I can''t leave the territory.


    The territory has been well developed over the past three years with the investment of Opal equipped and properly managed by Omar.


    Thanks to the weather, Opal will be able to get back what he invested in soon if it stays this way.


    It''s just that dating in the social world is annoying to Opal, and whatever it seems to me as the Duchess, I didn''t care anymore.


    It was such an opal, but I was reviewing a little about Hubert.


    Hubert has surprisingly already bought nearly 30% of Wang Du''s mansion and territory back from Opal in the last three years.


    Needless to say Opal was relieved that he was fortunate not to use his next hand.


    Moreover, in just over a year Hubert was the first to buy back the Mansion of the King''s Capital and just a little bit of land.


    And when Opal first visited the Duke''s residence in the King''s Capital for a long time for the procedure, he was just warmly welcomed or what was available was the lady''s husband''s room.


    "I would have been told Stella should be treated in a nice, airy place, wouldn''t she? So I bought a relatively small plot of land and mansion in a rural area near Wangdu for sale. Mrs. Northam and Stella moved there. Bring a couple of familiar servants like Romit and Beth."


    "Yes..."


    "Truly, I am grateful to you. If Stella hadn''t told me then so I could see a different doctor, Stella would by now... No, anyway, I''m glad I found a special effect. Thank you so much, Opal."


    "... no. It''s about your husband''s loved ones. Until I did what I deserved."


    The truth is, we haven''t found any special effects, they''ve been around for quite some time.


    Dr. Harrison, who was the attending physician for that, didn''t know, he was just prescribing old-fashioned medication at an expensive price.


    Apparently, Dr. Harrison was seeing the poor for free and prescribing drugs, and making up for that from the rich - not actually, but by charging Hubert for expensive medical bills.


    Hubert finally realized that he had fired Dr. Harrison and sent Opal a hard letter of thanks.


    Dr. Harrison''s aspirations were great, but I was sure he had problems with how to do it, and Opal didn''t speak up either, and he ended it by writing a reply that seemed familiar.


    "No, still, let me thank you"


    "Yeah..."


    That''s what he said. Hubert grinned holding Opal''s hand.


    Opal was puzzled by what could be described as this palm-back attitude, referred to as a good Hubert with other servants who have served for a long time, even without Romit or Beth.


    But he swallowed everything he wanted to say and Opal spent the day laughing with love.


    And the next morning, he left the mansion early because he was worried about the territory, leaving Hubert behind to hold back.


    Even then, on a regular basis, Hubert bought back territory.


    Count Holloway, Opal''s father, was also amazed at this.


    Initially, in a letter from my father, I asked him again and again, "Can I throw that fool out? It was written," but gradually the content turned into something that I might admit.


    Apparently Hubert was working desperately, as promised.


    Instead of now no longer requiring allowances from Opal, he had also been given an amount equal to the allowances paid for about a year.


    Rumors of Hubert''s successful investment have also recently spread to the social community, which seems to be gaining popularity among the women.


    They don''t even accompany their wives to occasional nightclubs, and they plot to keep the women away from Hubert, who talks to the men all the time.


    Moreover, even more various speculations had been made because even though I had never accompanied my wife, I had been witnessed not only at night clubs but also at gentlemen''s clubs and so on talking intimately to that father.


    Opal waited with a blur in mind as he heard deacon Lind responding at the front door.


    Omer doesn''t care about the obnoxious opal, he''s getting back to work early.


    While Hubert''s bought back territory continues to be managed by Omar, he will not have to worry about it in the future, as he sometimes travels to Wang Capital to teach him how to report and manage in detail.


    At this rate, Hubert had so much momentum that by the end of the year he would have regained half of his territory.


    (In short, I could have done it. I was just relinquishing my duty because I''ve always been spoiled...)


    However, I was also on the side of Hubert''s success.


    I was hearing from my uncle three years ago - he said the civil war in the kingdom of Tysey had healed in about six months.


    And now, with all kinds of supplies going on for post-war processing, the economy of this country is fine.


    (Although it''s frustrating to see the economy get better in the war, this time it''s almost a dispute within the royal palace, saying there was no blood flowing to the people, and that''s a triumphant feat of His Royal Highness the King, isn''t it?)


    Originally, the Kingdom of Tysey was a country rich in resources and very highly skilled in technology.


    Unfortunately, many have been lost in the civil war and earlier plagues, but His Royal Highness the victorious King''s Brother - under the leadership of the new King - seems to be rebuilding again.


    When Opal''s thoughts were flying all the way to about the kingdom of Tysey, Lind came in with a letter on the tray after Knock.


    "I am writing to your wife"


    "Thanks, Lind"


    As expected, the carriage came to deliver the letter earlier.


    Opal took the letter from the tray and turned the envelope over to confirm the sender.


    I get discouraged as soon as possible.


    Seeing an opal like that, neither Omer nor Lind said anything.


    Everyone at the consulate knows Opal has been waiting for a letter from someone for the past three years.


    But the consulates, while questioning who the hell they were, never talked about it.


    Everyone, including Omar, is hoping that instead of prying into the personal things of their beloved Opal, they will just be happy.


    "Well......"


    Opal glanced at the text and raised his voice unexpectedly.


    The sender was Hubert, so I was wondering if he was going to buy out some territory again, but his expectations were off.


    "How did they do?


    Lind inquired worried because he knew the sender.


    Likewise worried about Omer, who stopped working, Lind turned a blind eye and told him it was from Hubert.


    When Opal came to the consulate as a lord, there was no shortage of air between Lind and Omar, but now friendship is back again.


    Lind blamed himself for Omer''s wrongdoing since the death of the previous Dukes, something he hadn''t noticed for a long time.


    Sometimes going out is for land management, and where I believed it must have been hard since that great drought, Opal came and uncovered Omer''s injustice.


    Then again, I was causing Omer, who returned as an administrator, to be quite angry, but now it was time for that anger to subside as I watched him take his job seriously.


    My husband will be here shortly. He''s coming to this consulate.


    "No way......"


    Opal looked back at Lind, who shrugged unexpectedly.


    He always seemed surprised by the calmly settled butler''s rash attitude.


    Omer opened his mouth to explain how it was going.


    "My husband has not returned to this territory for seventeen years. My predecessor, the Duke - much more than the accident in which your parents died... My husband seemed to abhor the land because Sir Northam had died here ever since. So..."


    That''s it, Omer blushed and mumbled.


    Omer was able to work wrongfully because Hubert had left the territory to him even after he had grown up.


    "That... My husband was only twelve years old when the previous Dukes were in an accident. Yet it took two days for us to discover the carriage in which our husbands were riding�� Meanwhile, our husbands remained trapped in the car with your parents'' bodies for a long time"


    "Oh no..."


    When I heard about Lind, Opal blued.


    I had heard that Hubert had stopped visiting the land since the loss of his parents, but I never thought he''d had that tragic experience.


    I recall blaming you for not knowing anything and being irresponsible.


    "So, but your husband''s presence in this land would mean that you''ve organized your mind. We will do our utmost to make sure your husband forgets his past."


    "... right. Nice to meet you. Well, I''ll have to tell Debbie too."


    Opal laughed and replied to Lind''s words, which he hastily said with his eyes on the shocked Opal.


    And when I leave the study, I head to Debbie, the housekeeper.


    But Opal thought of Hubert, who had been hurt at an early age, and now regretted not knowing anything.

 22 22. Investment

    The day Hubert finally comes.


    The consulate was bulky in the morning, even though it had been prepared in advance.


    Omar and Lind are the only ones who know most of the Duke''s territory now belongs to Opal, and for the first time in seventeen years everyone floats to the arrival of their lord.


    One of them, Opal, closed himself in his room and looked out blurry.


    (I don''t know what kind of mood change it is... Did you get enough to buy this consulate?


    Opal''s view of Hubert had changed considerably when he heard that the boy, only twelve years old, had been trapped in his parents'' bodies and carriages for two days.


    I can also nod that the people around me were more overprotective than they needed against Hubert.


    If you started living with Northam and his wife and Stella after their parents died, I guess you can''t help but treat Hubert with special care for Sick Stella.


    It''s hard and sad to lose someone you care about.


    Opal was also terribly saddened when he lost his mother.


    Now I can remember with serenity, but that was also because there were people who supported me.


    But Claude, one of them, is not here right now.


    Some time after moving to the consulate, Opal wrote to Claude.


    Remember you took the land from Hubert.


    Opal later repented for what was like penance.


    I wanted someone to talk to and write, but I was just wondering if Claude had gotten spooked too.


    And it was a letter from the Baroness, Claude''s mother, that arrived at Opal, who waited for her as she unraveled until she received a reply.


    Apparently Claude hasn''t known where he''s been since he left home after college.


    Even though the Baroness was terribly worried, she had promised to forward it as soon as she knew where it was.


    But after three years, there is still no tone out.


    I wondered if something had happened, even if I wrote to the Count''s consulate a few times, there was just an equally worrying reply from the butler Orton that Claude still didn''t seem to know where he was going.


    If this is the case then - I wish I had talked more about it the last time I saw Claude.


    I should have asked him what he was going to do after graduation.


    And yet I was all distracted by myself - realizing that I liked Claude, and I was so full of my head about my marriage to Hubert that I put it behind me.


    I remember Claude over and over again, but all I can think of is a giggle.


    (Please, I hope you are well...)


    You don''t have to see me again.


    You can hate me.


    If you just stay healthy and happy, that''s all you need.


    I''m not sure if I still like it, but it doesn''t make a difference that it''s important.


    (My husband, maybe this is how he feels about Stella...)


    I''m sure you do, because it''s as good as buying a new house for Stella before investing well and buying back Wang Du''s mansion.


    Even if you can''t convey your thoughts, maybe by making Stella happy at all, Hubert is happy, too.


    Because it''s got to be a little bit more.


    Opal exhaled loudly as he watched a splendid carriage with the family crest of the Duke''s house arrive and headed to the front door to welcome him.


    "Long time no see, sir. How was your trip so far?


    "Ah, oh. Long time no see, Opal. Fortunately, we''re glad to have weather."


    "Thank you for that."


    Opal greeted Hubert, who had entered the consulate, with a gentle smile and warm welcome.


    We all decided in advance that we could forget as many bad memories as we could.


    But more than Opal, there are many who rejoice in the longtime reunion with Hubert.


    As a result, Opal immediately took a step back and gave way to deacon Lind and housekeeper Debbie.


    Then, for the first time in seventeen years, the consulate boiled down.


    Lind and Hubert are shaking hands disappointingly.


    Everyone was smiling and watching the sight overflowing, feeling happy all the way to Opal.


    It''s been so long since I''ve wanted to return to the consulate of the Count''s house.


    Hubert can also apparently forget abominable memories of the past now.


    The cook sifted his arms at the table that night, and for the first time, Opal and Hubert enjoyed the meal in a soothing atmosphere.


    But the next day.


    Opal was stunned by the story revealed by Hubert in the study.


    I open my mouth if I don''t listen to you in detail anyway, even though it creaks in front of me.


    "... Sir, would you say it again?


    "That''s why I bought man-tested land. It''s wrong not to get over there."


    "That... how was the funding raised? Not so much time has passed since the last time they bought back the territory..."


    "You don''t have to worry. That is certainly a barren area now, but it is certain that there is a mine. Even the railroads are pulled halfway. And then if we can pull the railroad all the way to the city, we can make good money."


    "So it''s funding the purchase of that land! That should have been a huge selling price over there! How did they procure that!?


    Hubert''s explanation was something anyone interested in investing in knew.


    Opal asks Hubert exasperatingly to postpone the answer.


    "Of course, I borrowed all the money I had and the mansion and territory of Wang Du as collateral."


    "Sir...... You know why that land -- that land is left in the middle of development, don''t you? Indeed, there are mines sleeping on that land. However, it is because of the enormous cost and skill required to carry the mined ore. Previous owners went bankrupt for that reason. Because deep valleys lie in the wilderness that stretches between that mine and the city. It''s still not possible with our country''s technology, such as passing railroads through that valley. How much would it cost if it were possible...... How do you get rid of that cost? Even then, it will take quite some years to recover the funds invested"


    If a dispute over the throne had not broken out in the kingdom of Tysey, the land development of the Mantest might have worked as well.


    Technicians and technologists in that country would have been able to get railroads through even the valley.


    But in the end, the plan to connect the city to the mine by rail was frustrating.


    The land, which had been abandoned for three years as it was, was too risky to be an object of investment and no one could get their hands on it.


    While saying even Opal''s father is spared, it is now the property that he decides will not get that much in return.


    "Development funding is going to recruit investors. Please, I need your help, too."


    "... what did my father say?


    To Opal''s inquiry, Hubert blushed slightly.


    That''s all I know the answer to.


    "The Count... if the technician can secure it... Of course, he said he needed to recruit other investors because he couldn''t make the full contribution. But if the Count would fund it, everyone would be happy to fund it. So it''s okay."


    Opal wanted to pack Hubert to see what was okay.


    Even though securing that pivotal technician is now nearly impossible.


    Technicians became so precious in the first place, also because of the plague that spread in the Kingdom of Tysey and the civil war that followed, which cost many lives.


    And now it''s hard to get out of the country protected by the new king.


    So Fu Opal realized that the price of the man-tested land - the untouched treasure mountain - was not too commensurate with Hubert''s property.


    "... Sir, did your husband''s estate really just suffice to buy man-tested land? Or didn''t they buy the whole man-test thing?


    "It... encumbered all the Duke''s territory"


    "All Duke territory......?


    Opal took a while to figure out Hubert''s answer.


    To be honest, I didn''t want to understand.


    "No way...... is this consulate and all the land in my name?


    "Those are all things you took from me. Besides, if this development works, you''ll get something to be satisfied with. Isn''t that okay?"


    "But that''s a crime! collateralising things in my name on my own, etc!


    "Didn''t you do something criminal?


    "That''s not like this!


    "But if you keep your mouth shut, it won''t be a problem"


    "Oh no..."


    Opal was again stunned by Hubert''s resolute words.


    I thought Hubert had changed in the last three years.


    It must have overcome my heart''s wounds to be able to come to the consulate in this way as well.


    But Hubert seemed to have blossomed his investment talent under his father''s guidance, but his arrogance seemed the same.


    Any genius can fail.


    Even if Opal only knew, my father had failed to invest several times.


    Still, I''ve been on the road to success until now because I always assumed the worst.


    Opal has also learned from the painful failures that have discredited him, and has always lived assuming the worst since.


    In time, we will strive for the best.


    "Sir, what if... what if this investment ends in failure?


    "I''m not going to let you fail. But... in case things don''t work out, you can live with Stella and the others in the suburban farmlands. Then we''ll have to start investing again and increase it with the property we keep for Stella."


    "Really..."


    That said, Hubert stared at Opal.


    Indeed, the Duke''s territory was deceived by Opal and naturally assumed by the public to belong to Hubert, so it could be used as collateral without the need for nominal documents.


    But I didn''t care about that anymore.


    The important thing is how to protect the territory - the people.


    Once he exhaled loudly, Opal slowly rose up and left the study.

 23 23. Investment

    Opal watched Hubert go out in a carriage without a front with Omar, through his own window.


    Opal, who spent the whole night thinking about what was to come without sleeping, was finally able to sleep at dawn.


    And now I woke up with the sound of the two of them going out.


    Speaking of which, last night, you said Hubert was going around the territory, blurry reminds me.


    Over the past three years, the territory had regained its original richness thanks to Omer''s proper management and Opal sparing no investment.


    I was able to recover most of the funds I invested these days.


    It''s just that for Opal, regardless of the revenue, he was already attached to the land.


    The inhabitants are also full of good people, not resenting the times of misadventure, but rejoicing in a much easier life and respecting Opal.


    Yet I may have to let go of this land.


    Of course, in the future, I knew it would all belong to Hubert.


    But I didn''t even think I might have to let go to pay off my debts.


    He was always going to think the worst, but Opal was still sweet, too.


    Still, you can''t give up.


    In case the next landowner is outrageous, it''s the people who struggle.


    When Opal regained his temper, he began to move to get the best results.


    At the dinner table that night, I told him I was going back to the king''s capital.


    Hubert frowns as soon as possible.


    "What does it look like to everyone when you go to the King''s Capital when I finally return to my territory..."


    "Even if you don''t worry, rumors are circulating that our people have already broken. More than that, all the people and the inhabitants of this consulate are very pleased that their husbands were back. Please, sir, look around this land as much as you can. I will ask my father once again to invest in man-tested land."


    "- Right. Well, I''m sorry. But I..."


    Hubert answered casually and apologized to Opal.


    With a surprising opal in his eyes, Hubert almost said something, but in the end he shuts his mouth.


    "... sir?


    "No... I said too much yesterday. Having me now, thanks to you, seems to have restored my previous arrogance. I''m so sorry."


    "... no, because I have a busy mouth too. Sorry, sir."


    "You don''t have to apologize. Just... well, go with care."


    "- Thank you."


    In fact, it was Opal who took the land, and there''s no mistake in what Hubert said.


    If you took the land as collateral and invested that money in new land, Opal has one thing to do.


    It''s about doing everything we can to successfully develop man-tested land.


    He would never have apologized before, so it seems slightly that the last three years have not been in vain.


    After that, when the two had a soothing meal, Opal returned to his room and rushed to get ready to go to the King''s Capital.


    And the next morning, he left for Wang Du in a carriage dedicated to Opal.


    Fortunately, the journey to the Wang capital went well and five days later we were able to reach the Count''s residence, our parents'' home.


    It''s just unfortunate, it seems my father won''t be home until the day after tomorrow for work.


    He sent out a letter before he left, but he didn''t make it, and Opal, while disappointed, slowly spent two days at the Count''s residence, receiving a welcome from the butlers.


    Eventually, when my father returns, I apply to see him through the butler.


    I couldn''t be strong because I had to do a favor, and my father had no idea what kind of reaction I would get back.


    I''ve spent another twenty-two years as a daughter, but Opal still can''t read at all what my father is thinking.


    And it was the following afternoon that the butler had told me as visiting time.


    Opal went into bed thinking about this and the persuasive ingredients, and spent another sleepless night.


    (Why can''t I sleep when I have to...)


    Strong opponents - I have to work my head tight because I''m relative to my father, but I''m not talking about lack of sleep.


    In the end, although I was relaxed, I couldn''t sleep well, and I couldn''t even say how I was doing when I got out of bed before lunch.


    Still, Opal said all I could to wake up and get a bath ready, soaked in water and refreshed his head and body to get a good lunch.


    (All right, let''s go!


    It was time, and Opal, who got into my father''s study in a temper, was to be beaten down early.


    I asked my father to invest, but he kicked me in the ass.


    "Opal, I do have money. But I''m not going to dump the money on Dob."


    "Treasures sleep on man-tested land. It''s not dob or anything like that."


    "No matter how much treasure you dig up, if you can''t carry it out, it can only be a storeroom. Opal, you know it''s you, right?


    "If a technician... can build a bridge where a truck loaded with ore can cross that valley, it will come true."


    "But the technician is not in this country. It would be one of the few engineers in the kingdom of Tysey. In short, it''s premature to develop that land. But McCloud seems to have ignored my advice. I don''t know why I need to rush that far. You don''t have to hurry, but while you''re alive, the Duke will never be anyone else."


    Opal noticed even more now in his father''s words.


    Sure, I wonder why Hubert went on a bet when he might end up throwing away what had been going well so far.


    Investments are bets in the first place, but there are more things you can win if you carefully identify them.


    And Hubert must have had the talent to identify it.


    (Speaking of which, I was distracted by the fundraising and hadn''t heard anything about it...)


    I can hear my father in Opal''s ear thinking about it.


    Returning to me all the time, my father watched as if he were even trying to read Opal''s mind.


    "Oh, um... so if the time comes, that land can be developed, right? For if we continue to repay them exactly until then, we will maintain our territory -"


    "Stop it, Opal. Where are you going to screw that repayment out of? I''m guessing you''re not gonna get your hands on your property, are you?


    "But I''ve always used it for territory"


    "I didn''t object to that because the return was solid - an investment that could be recovered in the short term. Indeed, I also thought about purchasing land for mantest. The difficulty of developing it made it quite cheap. Besides, I have as much money as I can buy without getting a loan. But with our country''s technological capabilities today, it would take at least five years just to start developing. Five years early to pull the railroad from there. It''ll only take ten years for that land to turn from bad to good. From there, the recovery of investment funds finally begins. Of course I can''t read everything that lies ahead. Still, at this stage, it''s twenty years to make a profit, even if it goes well."


    "Twenty years..."


    "In short, even if everything went well and I was able to recover my investment, I''m even suspicious if I''m alive at that time. Nothing. I''m not reluctant to leave you guys money. I simply want to see success with my own eyes. In fact, it would be like that with investors. And you mean you''re just old enough to have enough money to buy and develop that land.... Opal, I won''t say anything bad. Quite a loss, but we should encourage McCloud to let go of the man-tested land early"


    When he saw his daughter, who was completely silent, the Count exhaled heavily.


    Even if the Count disagreed, he didn''t ask, so Hubert wouldn''t listen if Opal disagreed.


    The Earl, who had always regretted that the two marriages had been a mistake, decided to lend a little hand to the Duke, who was also making reckless plans for his daughter.


    But there''s something I should check before I do.


    "No matter how much McCloud makes his fortune, now he has no children to inherit it. If you''re not going to do your greatest duty as Duchess, should you be separated? What the hell is McCloud going to do?


    "Come on, I don''t know that. Until now, if you want to marry someone else, if you want to be separated, you are saying that the land will continue to sell, but that doesn''t look like it... If you have a problem with your status, you may have a child with that person as my child. I''m sorry, but I was wondering if you should be a nanny."


    "... well. Whatever McCloud is, I know exactly what you''re thinking."


    With that said, the Count stared straight at Opal.


    There was a strong will in that gaze, and Opal was desperate to be frightened.


    "Anyway, whether McCloud goes bankrupt or not, he deserves it. The only thing you lose is the Duke''s Land, which you''ve got with a single document, so you won''t get any more hands on it. Wait till you get results."


    "Well...... then, just one last favor"


    "What?"


    "If income from the Duke''s Territory is not enough to repay the loan - if the Duke''s Territory is put up for sale, your father should buy it"


    "... it''s a stupid story, but it would be an extra smart choice than investing in man-tested land. - Okay."


    "Thank you!


    I couldn''t get any assistance, but somehow I avoided the worst, and Opal left the study behind with relief.


    Surely my father is right, Hubert deserves it no matter what happens next, and Opal doesn''t have to worry about it.


    I don''t even have to worry about the inhabitants anymore.


    (I''m kind of tired...)


    Nearly four years after his previous marriage and nearly seven years after that commotion, Opal has lived in a vanity.


    The fatigue seemed to come out more and more, and Opal fluttered back to his room.


    Then, as soon as I entered the room, I felt a severe dizziness and panicked and sat in the chair.


    But I never felt better, and Opal was supposed to spend nearly twenty days in bed.

 24 24. Ceremony

    "Opal, are you okay to stay awake?


    "... Sir, I am already perfectly well. Just in case, I''m just staying here, so I was going back to the consulate soon. So we apologize for your efforts in this way"


    "No..."


    Opal got a terrible flu, and the fever didn''t go down for about ten days and he suffered.


    It was bad that he was tired, and because his resistance was completely down, he couldn''t quite recover.


    Even when I was able to get out of bed, I was worried about the people at the mansion and ended up staying at the Count''s mansion for over a month.


    In the meantime, Hubert had been informed by a letter from his father, and a letter of sympathy and flowers were sent to him when he was asleep.


    He refused to see me in person because I might get infected.


    "The Count told me you were perfectly well, and I came to see you. Besides, I''ve got some great news."


    "- Thank you. So, what''s the great news?


    Hubert grinned and offered Opal the bouquet of flowers he had.


    I haven''t been able to smile like this since I was thanked for Stella.


    For that reason, Opal asked what had happened when he received a bouquet of flowers in confusion and thanked them.


    "Oh my God, the investor showed up!


    "... of mantest land development?


    "It is. In fact, I''ve been visiting the kingdom of Tysey for less than a month."


    "My husband is in the kingdom of Tysey?


    "Oh. Even I wasn''t thinking about anything. I was going to negotiate directly across the kingdom if you could come to this country with a technician. So I''d like to introduce you to someone with an Earl, who - you said Marquis Roussel - has done a lot for me. Thanks to this, I was able to see it with His Majesty the King. Besides, the Marquis has persuaded His Majesty to send a kingdom engineer! Plus the Marquis will be investing!


    "That''s... amazing"


    "Right? Opal, I''m sorry to worry. Now your father promised me he''d invest in it, and from now on, everything''s gonna be fine."


    To unexpected news, Opal''s mind was also finally lightening.


    At the same time, I was curious as to why Hubert would move so aggressively - he was in such a hurry to cross to another country.


    But I don''t speak of that question, I listen seriously to Hubert sitting across the street.


    Hubert was in a very good mood and was motivated to talk about his future prospects.


    Of course, profits cannot be raised immediately, but with the technical skills of the kingdom of Tysey, we will be able to collect them much faster than my father calculated.


    Mines aren''t the only ones that can make a profit.


    People and money can move and cities can do for railway construction.


    If the railways are further completed, many people will be gathered, not only those working in the mines, but also the land will develop.


    Mantest is also in an easy position to trade with the Kingdom of Tysey, and the Marquis of Roussel seems to have laid eyes on it.


    Having restored calm to the domestic situation, the Kingdom next needed to re-establish relations with foreign countries.


    Apparently, the Marquis supported the new king in the inheritance struggle three years ago, both financially and materially, and contributed significantly to the victory.


    He was marquised from Count to Marquis in that manner, but it is rumored that he will still devote a great deal of his efforts to reconstruction, in time for the Duke as well.


    I was fortunate that the Marquis Roussel was an acquaintance of my father.


    Hubert had been looking for investors in this country for the past month, but he was still estranged by his father-in-law, Count Holloway, not getting his hands on him.


    But the Marquis, who saw a reference from his father, apparently decided not to miss a pile of man-test treasures and bet on their potential.


    It seems my father has also decided to invest a lot because of this, and the investors will push ahead, Hubert said.


    "...... but do we still need other investors for that Marquis Roussel and my father to fund that much?


    "To be precise, the Marquis was to finance the purchase of the land at a fairly low interest rate. We need to repay the interest only for the moment. Besides, I can manage to cover that interest rate just by earnings in my territory. Most of the development money is invested by the Count, but it can''t be all."


    "It sounds like a lot of delicious talk, but is the Marquis someone you can trust?


    "Oh, you certainly would think so. But the Count also confirmed the contract earlier, and he undertook that it would be fine. All I have to do is sign it."


    "Really...... Okay, I''ll fund the rest. That was a promise, wasn''t it?


    The story was too good, and Hubert worried that he would be fooled again, but if my father confirmed it, I guess it would be okay.


    Exhaled relieved, Hubert shook his neck sideways at first sight as Opal gave his name to investors.


    "That''s... will you forget that? What was wrong with me then? The cheaper land for man-testing made me anxious for others to get ahead of me, and I took the liberty of collateralizing your land and throwing terrible words at you. Immediately, of course, there will be a contract cancellation process for the loan secured by the land -"


    "Apart from that time, sir, this is a pure investment for me. Of course, it''s my husband who chooses investors, so if you say no, I''ll give up."


    "Choose or nothing, you''re welcome to invest. But as strange as I say, please don''t be impotent. No matter how much the man-test is a mountain of treasure, there is no guarantee that it will succeed."


    "... thanks for the advice. But it''s okay. As you know, I have quite a fortune."


    Hubert finally calmed down, so appeased Opal smiled and answered.


    The challenge is still ahead, but I''m sure it will work.


    Now Opal could believe that too, dropping off Hubert as he left the Count''s mansion in a calm mood.


    - Four years later.


    The railroad safely opened from the mine to the urban area and to the newly formed port, and Opal was present at the ceremony.


    Although the recovery of funds is still to come, it can be said that it has been fortunate that development has so far proceeded without any major problems on its face.


    Along the way, I had a hard time stopping Hubert, who was about to storm off several times, but even if I didn''t listen to Opal, I had managed to get something because I honestly accepted the words of my father and Marquis Roussel.


    (I wonder why most men think that women don''t know anything about work. I''m getting good results, so at least you should be able to admit me as much as your husband...)


    Once I blurred about it, my father replied with a bitter smile, "I guess it''s because it''s you".


    Again, as a husband, my pride is hurt when my wife points me out to be wrong.


    While I don''t think it''s crap, I guess the world still has no choice because women are supposed to rely on men.


    In fact, many women use that weakness to live strong.


    Opal glanced at Hubert surrounded by the women and sighed.


    The land price of the man-test has gone up a lot more than expected, and the Count of Holloway, as well as Hubert, has now joined a huge bourgeoisie, which makes them quite popular with the women just because they don''t mind getting married.


    Naturally, attention to Opal also reappears, trying to get closer for whatever reason, young and old.


    It was depressing and intolerable, especially when a young man came as if he had remembered an old rumor.


    Opal, who was fed up with the status quo, intends to pull back into the countryside when this ceremony is over.


    I also attended this ceremony, which I was not willing to ride in the first place, because I wanted to thank the Marquis Roussel, who unfortunately seems to be absent.


    Opal offered his father or Hubert to contact the Marquis several times before, but in the end he could only go through the conversation via either of them.


    (I wonder if Marquis Roussel thinks women can''t work...)


    It was also thanks to the Marquis that the plan succeeded, and Opal thought it was only today that we could meet and talk in person, but it did not come true either.


    Apparently the Marquis didn''t really want to go out in public and his father laughed and told Opal that he was happy with this luck that he had been able to run errands again this time.


    (I wonder if it''s destiny not to see anyone who wants to see me...)


    Four years later, Claude''s whereabouts remained unknown.


    I also saw the Baroness the other day on her return to Count''s territory, but she didn''t seem to want me to touch on Claude, and Opal quickly changed the subject.


    Opal, who remembered the blur and the time, returned to me all the time with the loud sound of the band.


    (Almost... It''s almost over...)


    Staring at Hubert in his glorious figure, Opal waited for the ceremony to end.


    The truth is, I don''t like busy places.


    Ten years ago Opal had just debuted to the social world and was floating in its glamour.


    But it was too late when I realized that living quietly in the country was much happier.


    Losery Opal pretended to be willing and enjoying himself in the social world, but I think that was foolish now too.


    Marriage life was completely different from what I had dreamed of again, but it was still rewarding.


    It was really fun to rebuild the territory while living in the countryside and see the delightful faces of the inhabitants, even if it wasn''t where we planned to be.


    (But this isn''t the end of my country life)


    Whatever it was, Opal wasn''t going to go any further than he needed to be in a social setting.


    For the record, it might be a good idea to have a dog.


    With that in mind, Opal, who was attending a party after the ceremony, slipped out of anticipation of the fit.


    The venue was a new hotel made with land development and Opal was staying in the finest room of the hotel.


    Naturally, Hubert is in the same room.


    Opal honestly accepted that he had no choice but to care that much because he was a couple, but there were two bedrooms in the room.


    And when he walks into the room, he calls the maid, loosens his hair and takes off his dress.


    The tightened head and body were released, and Opal exhaled with relief.


    I hear a knock there, and Hubert''s voice.


    "Opal, are you okay?


    "Yeah, yeah. Of course. Why is that?


    "No... you''d have gotten out of the venue early, wouldn''t you? I was wondering if I was feeling any worse..."


    "I''m sorry for your concern. But I''m really okay, so please, sir, please go back to the venue."


    "... I''m not going back now. More than that, Opal, I need to talk to you, so can you come out?


    The conversation over the door was all about surprise, and the maid and opal who were following me looked at each other unexpectedly.


    But you can''t leave as you are now, and for one second speak to Hubert.


    "I''ll be right there, can you just wait a minute?


    "Okay."


    Apparently he returned to his living room. Opal hastily changed into a dress for normal use so as not to keep Hubert waiting.


    Instruct the maid to keep her hair down and comb her own hair while she is wearing the dress.


    Then, somehow, he made up his mind and Opal went into the living room.


    "Sorry to keep you waiting"


    "No... this is me, I''m suddenly sorry"


    Opal lowered his hips on the couch, surprised by Hubert''s unusual twitchy attitude.


    When asked for a drink, but refused, Hubert poured a brandy for himself and sat across the street.


    "Well... this time I was finally able to get enough money to buy all the land back from you"


    "That''s... Congratulations. But we''re still going to need the money, right? And I''m..."


    "No, it''s not like we''re going to lose our assets. So I want to buy back everything in the former Duke''s territory."


    "- Okay. I do not think, then, that we need to exchange contracts of sale in particular this time. I''ll give you the paperwork from that time soon, so please dispose of it."


    That Opal had made up his mind since he took Hubert''s land with that fraudulent paperwork.


    The truth is, once Hubert bought back half of the Duke''s assets in the Territory, he was going to return them all.


    The price paid for previous repurchases - everything, including what we are turning to invest and increasing.


    At that time, if Hubert hadn''t bought man-tested land, it would have been a problem cleaned up earlier.


    I could say I wasted four years, but it doesn''t matter to Opal, who just has a husband in the name and could have lived in the country as originally planned.


    I guess this was good for Hubert because he was also one of the leading bourgeoisies in the country.


    Opal had already begun in his mind about the process of transferring, calculating the assets now increasing.


    I hear a nervous Hubert voice there, regaining consciousness to reality.


    Then, at some point, Hubert lay one knee at Opal''s feet and looked up with a bright red face.


    "... excuse me. What did you say?


    "So the... Opal, will you marry me officially?


    Amazing words go into my ear and the bell rings loudly in Opal''s head.


    So much for a headache.


    And Opal was thinking that this was the Blue Sky Thunder and that it was off target.

 25 25. Ceremony

    "... even if you were officially alleged to be married... but my husband and I are already married?


    Opal''s words, which managed to speak out, were the best.


    Then Hubert makes his face even more red and recruits.


    "Well, that''s only nominal. I... at the beginning of my marriage, I just had a really terrible attitude towards you. There''s no excuse, but back then, I was full of heads about debt and Stella, and I just think something was wrong. Still, I''ve been attracted to you since I first danced with you ten years ago. That hurt my pride to get married in that way, and it stupidly hit you. I''m so sorry."


    "That''s no longer... that''s fine. I did the worst I could to trick my husband into taking his land."


    "No, that doesn''t matter. That''s when I woke up. Of course, I resented you at first, but then I figured out why you went into that kind of behavior. My world has always been too narrow. When I realized that, I knew it wasn''t a mistake to be attracted to you the first time you danced, how wonderful you were. But now I didn''t deserve to confess to you. So when I bought all the territory back, I decided to apply to you again for marriage."


    Opal, who heard Hubert''s confession, regretted at the same time understanding whether he had so hastily purchased Mantest land with it.


    I didn''t arrogantly try Hubert, and if I had been honest with him from the start, I wouldn''t have crossed such a dangerous bridge.


    At that time, Opal was concluding that Hubert had something to do with Stella on his own because he said whether to live with Stella or not.


    Speaking of which, I think that was when you failed, and now I remember Stella.


    "I don''t know... I thought my husband liked Stella..."


    "Stella? No way! To me, Stella is just like my sister!


    With a surprising opal in his eyes, Hubert explains again in a reddish and hasty manner.


    "Of course I have affection for Stella. But it''s against my family, and it''s nothing like it is against you. It''s just... at one point, I was just wondering if you''d be jealous of Stella."


    "Yes, was it..."


    "Oh. I like you - opal. Please, will you marry me again?


    To his first proposal from Hubert, Opal, who was stunned, looked seriously at him kneeling at his feet.


    I dreamed of this scene a long time ago.


    And now, it was all too late.


    Since that day, seven years ago, Opal''s determination has remained the same.


    "I''m sorry, sir. I can''t take it."


    When I heard Opal say no, Hubert got an incredible look.


    Still Opal goes on pale.


    "I was deciding seven years ago when I tricked my husband into making my territory and mansion mine. Trying to return everything once your husband buys back half of the property he''s taken. And I''m trying to get you to stay away."


    "Well, that''s not necessary. I''ll buy it out of you properly. So..."


    "Get away from me, sir. Please let me go."


    "Freedom...? Why? Why..."


    "- To be honest, I was very heartbroken when I first danced with my husband, too. If my husband had proposed to me then, I would have been happy to jump up. But after that, I got caught up in a scandal. The world won''t forgive me, even though there was really nothing. So I pretended to be enjoying myself in a social setting, no matter how much I was shrugged, how much I was slapped in the pussy."


    Now Hubert seemed surprised by Opal''s confession.


    Opal thinks I was stupid back then, too.


    After all, we were both young and stupid.


    "At the age of twenty, my grandmother''s estate will be freely available for use independently of my father. Until then, patience ordered me to marry my husband when I thought I would soon be able to live in peace in the countryside. So I got angry, and I think I was a lot more busy and defiant after the marriage."


    "That''s not true. That was when I should have acted older. Though I owe you and your father a great debt, I... we were too outrageous against you."


    To Hubert begging for forgiveness, Opal turned his sad grin before rising.


    "Opal?"


    "Sir, please take a seat. Then could you wait a moment?


    With that said, Opal entered the room assigned to him once and returned to his living room again.


    And put the paperwork I had in my hand on the table.


    Hubert surprised to drop his gaze on the paperwork and then opened his eyes.


    "At the end of today''s ceremony, I was going to give it to you. The price you paid to buy back the land again is to invest - we are turning it over to invest in this man-test, so as I said earlier, I promise I will pay you back all of it. So please sign this letter of separation."


    Hubert stared sharply at the letter of estrangement placed next to the deceitfully renamed document.


    Opal adds, smiling bitterly at him like that.


    "Of course, now take a good look before you sign. Because if it''s just an edge, it''s supposed to be weird."


    "Can''t we just... start over again?


    "... You said your husband was sisterly about Stella, right? Me too, it just seems like my husband is... like a family all the time now. So it is impossible to see your husband as heterosexual beyond this. However, my husband has the right to decide on the edge of separation. If my husband is to be rejected, I can''t help it. You''ll need a successor, too, so I..."


    "Enough!... Please, don''t say any more"


    Looking completely depressed, Hubert blocked Opal''s words.


    Although Opal clouded his words, for a long time now - from the time he deceived his possessions, Hubert only seemed like a handy brother, though he was older.


    And I had to make this eclamptic brother a good duke, and he was burning with a weird sense of purpose.


    Four years ago, I was disappointed, but I couldn''t abandon it, but now I''m offering to get away with it.


    In view of the worst case scenario, Opal''s deputies have also been asked to keep an eye on future trends in the Duke''s territory.


    But it was only natural that Hubert needed inheritance, and he was prepared to accept it if he really wanted it.


    It was just resentment, and I didn''t even think Hubert had romantic feelings for himself, so it was if I assumed the worst about my child again.


    - On behalf of Stella, who the child can''t want, she says she''ll be forced to make a inheritance.


    "I''m sorry, Opal. I''m already tired today and it''s hard to look through the paperwork. So can I get back to you tomorrow?


    "- Yes, of course."


    In response to Hubert''s bitter inquiry, Opal stood up softly, answering clearly.


    Then he leaves Hubert standing on his knees and returns from his living room to his room.


    I didn''t say anything, but I thought it would be better.


    When I call the maid and get my makeup off, I really wanted to take a bath, but I patiently change into night clothes and go to bed.


    I was tired enough to seem to sleep as soon as I closed my eyes, but I couldn''t sleep because I was concerned about the faint sound I heard from the living room.


    Still, Opal seemed to be asleep at some point.


    The next morning, when I woke up in the light of the sun, it was also late in the morning when my maid told me that Hubert had already left the hotel.


    Besides, Hubert seems to have left with a deposit in his maid.


    If Opal, who received the larger envelope offered, checked the contents on the spot, it was a signed, estranged letter.


    There''s just nothing else.


    Neither the paperwork when you took the territory, nor the letter from Hubert.


    Opal took a deep breath and grabbed the dominance, eating a good breakfast before leaving the hotel.


    The destination is the Duke''s residence in Wangdu.


    To put the last bullshit on, Opal got in the mood as he was rocked by a carriage, not a railroad.


    To be honest, face-to-face with Hubert was awkward, but there''s something I have to do before I can officially submit the letter of estrangement.


    Opal, who arrived at the Duke''s mansion a few days later ready, was relieved to hear that Hubert had not yet returned, as well as slightly worried.


    But Hubert is a fine adult now.


    Opal told her it wasn''t something she was worried about, and suddenly told her returning mistress to gather all her servants to surprise the butler.


    There, Stella shows up to Mrs. Northam and Romit as Beth pushes her wheelchair, staring at Opal.


    "Why are you suddenly back?


    "Hello, Stella. Long time no see. And you look a lot better."


    Unfortunately, Hubert''s not here.


    "Looks like the pills are working. Good."


    Both Beth and Romit look flashly at Opal and Stella continuing a conversation that doesn''t engage at all.


    Perhaps I''ve never seen a stellar with such a tight attitude.


    "Stella, stop it! It''s disrespectful!


    "Oh, I don''t mind. But you''re all here. What''s wrong?


    "Oh, you know, now I''m letting you stay here to see Stella at the doctor''s. Monthly check-ups��"


    "Oh, you did. I think you can stay as long as you want."


    Mrs. Northam hurries to scold Stella for her inability to speak out.


    Stella seemed as spoiled as ever, but for Opal, she had nothing but pity.


    She has to live her whole life in Hubert.


    There, the butler brought back the servants.


    "Ma''am, we have gathered all those who are now in the Mansion...?


    "Thanks"


    To his surprise Deacon, Opal slowly looked around at the servants as he smiled and thanked them.


    It was unfortunate not to see your lord Cave, but I might have another chance to meet him someday.


    "Thank you for taking the time to get together. I''m sorry I can''t say hello to everyone, but I can''t help it. I came to say goodbye today."


    Those on the spot breathed much more in Opal''s words.


    Yet what looks frightening is those who have been around for a long time, apparently misinterpreting themselves as being dismissed.


    "Actually..."


    "Stop! How can you do such a terrible thing!?


    "... terrible thing?


    "Everyone''s been serving this mansion for a long time! And yet it''s terrible to dismiss him!


    "Dear Stella..."


    The Romites weep at the moving words of Stella.


    I thought you weren''t punishing me at all. Opal, but the angel in the wheelchair doesn''t have the old flattery.


    Years seem to visit any human being equally.


    Opal sighed deeply and opened his mouth.


    "Apparently you''re misunderstanding, but I''m the one leaving"


    "... Huh?


    "I was to be separated from my husband. I''ve been patient for a long time, but I can finally be free. So please, celebrate."


    As never before shown in this Duke''s residence, Opal, with a radiant smile, told the astonished servants.


    Only the new butler, who had been informed of some circumstances, is smiling and accepting.


    Opal looks at Romit and Beth with his pompous mouth open, stares at Stella, and then turns again to the servants - servants who have been around for a long time.


    "My husband said - no, the Duke of McCloud will be remarried not so far away, so now everyone treats his new wife with respect and kindness. A little new wife is very young, something she may not be used to as a mistress"


    I thought it was mean, but at the end of the day, Opal spit out that he would be forgiven for this much dislike.


    Then, even though that''s all, I feel like what I''ve been accumulating for years has been neat.


    "Thank you for seven years, then. That was a lot of fun. Goodbye!"


    Say a bright goodbye to Stella and Romit, who are still in shock and losing their words, and Opal turned his heels back and left the front door.


    The weather is good and Opal feels good.


    Of course, I haven''t left any luggage in this mansion at all.


    Opal looked back at the mansion at the end as he went down the stairs to his own carriage where he had been waiting for me.


    If you look up big, you can see the dirty, cloudy little windows in the attic that were for a short time but Opal caged in a mean way.


    You were young back then, something a little emotional came in, but I just changed my mind and got into the carriage.


    Heading there is the little mansion my grandmother left me.


    But before I did, I was going to stop by the Duke''s territory and say hello.


    Farewell would be a tough one because it was a lot more of a place to call home than this mansion.


    Still, Opal felt clear and set off for a new life.

 26 26. Reunion

    Opal, who had not returned to Count''s territory in a long time, climbed a tree he had been accustomed to since he was a child and looked far away.


    But even the long idle landscape in its eyes is occupied by something else in its head.


    The story heard yesterday when my father summoned me to the Mansion of the King''s Capital severely upset Opal.


    Probably more than when you were ordered to marry Hubert.


    More than a decade ago, Claude came to my father for permission to propose during that scandal that hit Opal, who had just debuted to the social world.


    That''s when my father said he kicked Claude back, who was just a college student.


    Yet three years later, Claude visited his father again to marry Opal.


    Moreover, it seems that Claude, despite being a Baron family person, earned his wages by labor and had increased his wealth by investing in it on his own.


    Of course, it was only a small amount from my father, to a lesser extent than 30% of Opal''s bribes, but to that mind my father was faintly moved?


    But my father had already finished his contract with Hubert, and the future of Opal had been decided.


    No matter how much more wealth you could have gained and lived without your hands on Opal''s bribe, it''s too different between the Duchess and just a gentleman-class wife.


    Opal doesn''t need help in the first place.


    When my father, who so decided, told me that Opal''s marriage had already been decided, Claude apparently left with a small mouthful of words of celebration.


    "- It occurred to me that even if we were to marry a childhood familiar who suddenly demonstrated a chivalrous spirit, we would soon bore each other and regret just being close. It would be better for you to face adversity in the Duke''s house than that."


    "... why are you talking to me now?


    "When you turned twenty, I knew you were going to live in the country without getting married. So I figured if I forced him to marry me, I would try to make my marriage work, even if it was willful, out of rebellion against me. But my decision was a big mistake. Because you acted differently than I expected and wasted seven years. And in the end, he lives in hiding in the country. You still have another option."


    "This is - because this is what I want in my life."


    Opal replied with surprise but perseverance to his father''s confession, which was still silent when he was separated from Hubert.


    The truth is, my chest was about to crumble.


    The last day I saw him, Claude blessed Opal''s marriage.


    Would Claude have helped if Opal had relied on him to uncover his situation without being mean?


    Yes, after many thoughts, I get stunned by my stupidity.


    The prince on the white horse was right beside him from an early age, but it was himself he didn''t realize.


    Yet there is plenty of thickness when it comes to painful times and asking for help.


    I''m sure Claude would have helped if he had asked.


    But then, we were supposed to hold Claude responsible for a heavy sin.


    So I''m glad this is it.


    Seven years after marrying Hubert, it was often painful, because the Duke''s people were able to get out of poverty and Hubert was able to grow up as Duke.


    It seemed like my brother, who didn''t rely on me for Opal, was finally able to stand on his own, with some sense of accomplishment.


    Naturally, the divorce between the two still buzzes the social world after nearly a year.


    Because there are numerous couples who are not close to each other in the social world, but rarely do they actually get divorced, etc.


    And most concluded that the Duke would have made a cut against Opal, who, seven years after his marriage, was not pregnant at all.


    But it was Hubert who denied it.


    Opal wasn''t the kind of woman rumored to be before marriage, he said.


    In the first place, this marriage was a contractual marriage in which Opal reached out to save Hubert who was in distress, and after his marriage, he devoted himself to Hubert and supported him long after, so to speak.


    What''s more, it''s because of Opal that we have Hubert now, and Hubert himself wanted the marriage to continue, but he said with a bitter smile that he had been shaken.


    I just had to believe this story while everyone was surprised.


    Of course, there''s a lot to question, but nobody disagrees with what the Duke says, and besides, nobody sees where Opal behaves flashy after marriage.


    On the contrary, it is certain that it has always been on the Duke''s territory.


    Opal''s honor was thus restored, but it didn''t matter to Opal.


    I just want Hubert to get married as soon as he can and be happy this time.


    But that shouldn''t be so hard either.


    Hubert is now quite a bourgeoisie, considered the best married person in the social world, and unmarried women and their mothers are making a scene.


    In fact, Hubert needs a child to succeed him, so he''ll be getting married soon, even given his age.


    Apparently Hubert has been close to certain women lately.


    The woman is young, but she hasn''t floated, and she''s famous for being firm, but she''s more right in the expression that her father feels strongly about it.


    "Besides, that girl has an even more powerful - a temperamental mother. If you marry that girl, the Duke McCloud family will be taken over by that mother and daughter."


    I remember my father saying that and laughing, and Opal sighed.


    The problem is Stella''s presence.


    I hear Hubert only thinks of Stella as his sister, but Stella is clearly different.


    Opal replied to me that it had nothing to do with him anymore, wondering how Hubert would respond to how the new marriage partner perceived Stella''s presence.


    Now, as I had decided before my marriage, I live carefully in a small house on the land my grandmother left me.


    I don''t know what happened to the name change documents I returned to Hubert, but all the money Hubert had to pay Opal when he bought back the territory and the mansion.


    On the contrary, to the rest of the territory.


    Although my uncle asked me to join him in the brokerage, it seems Hubert insisted that he pay hard, and in the end Opal broke.


    Hubert''s letter, which has been sent several times since the divorce, may have said that.


    But while Opal thought it was cold, he sent it all back without cutting the seal and wanted it to be contacted through the deputy, so the truth remains unknown.


    Nevertheless, since we stopped receiving letters from when we settled on the money, we probably do.


    And Opal invested the payment from Hubert in the man-test again.


    The benefit was intended to be used to improve the treatment of those working in man-testing.


    A good working environment will be linked to good jobs and will be restored in the interest of others.


    That is also what I saw directly in the Duke''s territory.


    In addition, Opal was an increased asset with investments and also intended to set up an organization to support women''s independence.


    (Just because you''re a woman, it''s weird that you can''t get a loan for your business or get a job)


    Opal with a new goal was motivated.


    It was just a little bit more sentimental than my father told me.


    When Opal was once again strongly determined, he heard a familiar footstep in his ear from behind, and Opal looked back, wondering no way.


    And breathtaking.


    "Long time no see, Opal. But you don''t have to ask me if I''m well."


    "... Yep. As you can see, I''m fine enough to climb a tree. More than that, it''s been a while, Claude."


    From above the tree, Claude''s face is not well seen.


    Even though my footsteps haven''t changed, my voice feels a little lower.


    Opal held his snout, wondering if it was because of the change in the way he spoke.


    "Come down, Opal. It''s been a long time, so show me your face."


    "I climbed because of it, why do I have to go down on purpose? I hope Claude climbs."


    "Don''t be impotent. If you climbed up to me, you wouldn''t be able to stand the trees, would you? It''s not what it used to be."


    "... maybe so"


    I thought it was not a cute way to say it myself, but I didn''t want Claude to see my face about to cry, and I got mean.


    Then Claude answers with a bitter smile.


    The words were as if they were the two of us in the present situation, and Opal did not come up with a good reply.


    We used to climb this tree together a lot, lined up and looking far away, and now we can''t do it anymore.


    I was happy to welcome Claude back from boarding school for a long time, and I was nowhere else.


    Besides, now that I''ve heard that story from my father, I''m sorry and I didn''t have a face to match.


    "Come on down. Or I''ll drag you down."


    "Hey, hey! All right! Okay, so stop it, Claude!


    Ignoring Opal''s feelings, etc., Claude tried to pull Opal''s leg as he used to when he came under the tree.


    I hastily avoided it, but now I pull my skirt.


    When Opal raised his voice of surrender, Claude''s attack finally stopped.


    Turning down, I could see Claude''s face grinning slightly, Opal''s previous sentiments disappearing and tears pulling in.


    If I could, I could have climbed to a place where Claude couldn''t reach me, but that Opal''s pride wouldn''t allow it.


    It''s Claude, who knows such Opal''s character so well, that he''s waiting for him to come down with a mean laugh.


    "... If you''re a gentleman, would you mind turning around for a while?


    "Why? You didn''t say that back in the day."


    "It used to be easy to get down. But now it''s a little tricky."


    "Then I need to see it all the more. I''ll help you if you''re in danger."


    "... thanks"


    It didn''t seem like a mean opal and Claude raised her brow lightly to be honest with her but she didn''t say anything.


    Opal kneels in his skirt and hugs his thick branches against his trunk with his accustomed hands.


    Please, hoping you wouldn''t see in your skirt, Opal dared to go down the same way he used to.


    But my body slips my legs, not like it used to, and Claude''s arm quickly stretches out to support me.


    Opal was held lightly as it was and gently lowered to the ground.


    "... thanks, Claude"


    "I didn''t think you were really going to help. You dropped your arm, Opal."


    "Instead of losing my arm, I''m losing strength. I''m almost twenty-seven, right?


    Answering with a laugh, Opal slipped away from Claude subtly.


    Claude, whom I haven''t seen in a long time, is a totally grown man with a loose boyish look.


    Opal leaned down, wondering how he looked compared to Claude, who became very attractive.


    But this doesn''t make me feel like I''m running away.


    Opal, who thought so, looked up and laughed straight at Claude.


    "You don''t have to ask if Claude is well, either. Something I got solid help with. Thank you so much."


    "Oh, I''m fine. Still, that''s not enough to be appreciated, is it? What''s wrong with you?


    "I''ll do something about it. I haven''t heard from him in nearly eight years and how worried I was...... And yet I can''t believe I was in touch with your father."


    Opal squeezed his right hand and gently slapped Claude''s chest.


    And yet Claude never avoids it, frowning and looking down at Opal.


    And he hesitated slightly, opening his mouth.


    "... you heard?


    "I heard that. You are the Marquis Roussel of the kingdom of Tysey."

 27 27. Reunion

    "- What is it, is it broken? I was gonna surprise you by talking to me."


    "Shh. Then you should have come to the ceremony. Then I lost my back."


    When he heard the words of White Claude, Opal turned his fist again.


    But now it''s easy to be taken in the palm of your hand.


    "Still noisy."


    ''Cause I''m mad at you.


    "I didn''t want to worry you."


    "So you''re saying you were worried!


    Opal, with his right hand strapped, tried to slap Claude with his left hand.


    But the hand will soon be taken.


    When he regretted and Opal stared, Claude smiled as troubled and released his hand, touching his upbeat red cheek.


    "I didn''t even want you to cry."


    Claude said so, wiping tears flowing down Opal''s cheek.


    Still Opal stares at Claude.


    "I''ll worry, I''ll cry! If someone loves to do something stupid to go to a country where there is a civil war, then who!


    "It wasn''t a battle yet when I got there."


    "Don''t be reasonable! But - I''m so glad you''re safe..."


    Opal wiped his tears abusively and exhaled deeply, one step backwards and away from Claude.


    And stare carefully at Claude from the top down.


    "Hey, you didn''t get hurt, did you?


    "- Oh, I''m fine. Because I wasn''t on the battlefield."


    "Yes...... Then I''m glad. No, the war is not good."


    I checked with my eyes, and when I heard Claude''s reply, Opal relieved me.


    But soon the words he squealed in his face seemed opal, and Claude grinned.


    Of course it''s not a laugh.


    I denied it to Opal, but I was really caught up in a skirmish several times.


    Still, this is how I was able to come back safely, so I wouldn''t have to bother to tell you and make you worry.


    Even though Claude knew he had no hope, he had abandoned himself for a time after Opal, whom he always liked, got married.


    So I headed to the kingdom of Tysey, where the situation was anxious, with the hard-won money I had made.


    It''s not like I didn''t have any purpose.


    "You know Opal, my mother is from the kingdom of Tysey."


    "Yeah. You and your father, who wanted to go on a tour - you were in big love with the Baron, and you pushed off the opposite of your family and you came to this country, right?


    "I was duped, to be exact. I sent many letters and never got a reply. So, when I graduated from college, I had nothing to do with it, so I went to see what was going on."


    "So I can''t believe I''m going without saying anything..."


    "Even I was going to be back soon. I wasn''t going to name it, I was going to go home just to hear rumors about what my mother''s family was doing, and I headed to Count Roussell''s residence in King''s Capital."


    "Your aunt was from the Count Roussell family."


    "Oh, she was my stubborn youngest daughter."


    Finally, Claude and the Count Roussell family - now we know the connection to the Marquis family, and Opal was convinced.


    But there are still plenty of questions.


    Nevertheless, I can''t stand here forever.


    "Hey, Claude. How about some tea at the consulate? I''m sure Marcia will be glad to cry."


    "... Thankful offer, but why don''t we go over there before then?


    "There, you mean that big rock?


    "Oh."


    "But..."


    What Claude is proposing is a place where some big rocks are rolling at the foot of the mountain and you have to walk just a little bit.


    When I was a kid, I used to make it a secret base and play a lot.


    "But what? Worried we''ll be alone?


    "No, I''m not. I''m not. I''m not sure I can climb that big rock anymore."


    Claude asks reluctantly about Opal.


    Indeed, it was a matter of being alone with a man, no matter how much Opal had a marriage history.


    But nowadays, there are no people around here who would rumor about it in the first place.


    The problem is my health, and when Opal answers honestly, Claude squirts.


    "You''re scared, you don''t look like Opal."


    "''Cause it was hard just to climb this tree, huh? You saw it coming down, right? I''m already disappointed in myself!


    "So, you want me to stop?


    "I''m coming."


    Opal, rejoicing in an exchange no different from the old days, began walking under the words of a challenging claude.


    Claude walks next door with him laughing.


    Opal remembered that the conversation was completely off the table there.


    "So, how was your aunt''s family?


    "No... unfortunately, it was a plague that also caused the battle for succession to the throne, and most of them died, except for my grandfather"


    "Well...... I''m sorry to hear that..."


    "Yeah, right. It''s just that I still feel sorry for him because I''ve never even met him before, maybe he''s cold."


    "Claude......"


    Still suffering enough.


    Opal, who felt so, inadvertently shook Claude''s hand.


    Then Claude grips it back hard.


    Opal wasn''t the only one who struggled for nearly eight years.


    "In the end, I didn''t mean to see you, but when I heard you were alone at the mansion, I went to see you. Honestly, I thought I''d be paid up front, but apparently my face is pretty strong in the Roussel family traits. The butler put me in the mansion in surprise, and he even talked to the fucking jizz."


    "Are you fucking jizzy?


    "It was fucking jittery. He told me to go to the Imperial Castle when I saw him. Go to the royal castle and swear the loyalty of the Count Roussel family to His Royal Highness the King."


    "... forceful."


    "I''m arrogant."


    "But you took it on, didn''t you? Claude was always complaining about me and listening to me. You really like people, don''t you?


    "No, I''m not."


    Claude replied bitterly to Opal''s words.


    Opal''s words were so cute that Claude loved to make it happen.


    How cute was the opal who always happily said "thank you" when his own self was fulfilled.


    Claude exhaled deeply, holding Opal''s hand.


    I followed my intimidating grandfather''s orders because it didn''t matter.


    The plague just converged, but now it was rough within the kingdom of Tysey in a battle for succession to the throne.


    It was Claude, who had been in danger many times since he crossed the kingdom, but it was an even more dangerous place within the royal castle.


    But Claude, lucky enough to see it in the name of the Count to His Royal Highness the King, was able to safely give him a letter acknowledging his pledge of allegiance from his grandfather.


    (All I can say is that I was lucky...)


    Coincidences overlapped and Claude, who had the opportunity to speak directly to His Royal Highness the King and - now the King - was attracted to the character and worked to leave the anti-King Brotherhood, independent of his grandfather''s will.


    It''s Claude''s own in financial terms and the assets of the Count''s family, while using the connections he developed in college in material terms and even getting considerable help from Count Holloway, Opal''s father.


    "Claude, are you okay?


    Worried about Claude, who''s completely silent, Opal asks.


    Claude grinned as usual in haste.


    "You''re set to be fine. I was just remembering something a little fucking jizzy. In the end, my grandfather died as soon as His Royal Highness King saw His Majesty reign, but he left an extra will."


    "... is that why Claude inherited the Roussel family?


    "Oh. But it doesn''t matter what you think, does it? I have other grandchildren. If it''s enough for me to inherit in the first place, you''re my brother, right? Yet even His Majesty was allowed to escape."


    In fact, the rebellion from the rest of the Count family was intense.


    Even at the turn of the civil war, they made quite a fuss about funding His Royal Highness Brother Wang, saying that his parents, Count Roussel, were busy.


    It was the new king who silenced such a Count human being.


    For once, the king confiscated all the title property of the Roussel family on the grounds that there were no direct men.


    He then silenced the Roussel family by telling them that he would give them a new marquis and confiscated property, plus a new territory, for Claude''s achievements - land that he had confiscated from the nobles who had lost in this civil war.


    Those of the Roussel family may seem similar to the nobles who became traitors if they remained so, then they decided that it would be more honorable to let Claude carry on the trail, and perhaps admitted it.


    The Roussels said they contributed to the reign of the new king.


    Claude focused on rebuilding the kingdom of Tysey, which was exhausted, with such kindred duly embellished.


    Not all went well, of course.


    Sometimes people were targeted for their lives by the remaining anti-Kings, and in the provinces they had to go into the folk who were on the verge of starvation to rioting.


    For Claude, his first three years in the kingdom of Tysey had always been alongside danger, giving reasons not to worry about Opal and his family, but he had been out of touch not to be weak.


    Even in such a cornered situation, Count Holloway just continued to give me assistance, and many investors also introduced me.


    The letter from the Count never touched on Opal, but of course he was aware that among the investors was Duke McCloud, Opal''s husband.


    I don''t mean to be particularly conscious.


    Still, just a little bit, because my stepfather introduced me so much, it''s true that the Duke was lonely and happy to be friends with Opal.


    Then Claude worked quickly for the people to rebuild and restore to the investors.


    Eventually, by the time the whole kingdom had settled down and everyone could exhale, the Duke of McCloud, with a letter of introduction from the Earl of Holloway, had visited Claude.


    And Claude, having read what was written in the introduction, desperately had to indulge the man in front of him - without beating the Duke of McCloud.

 28 28. Memory

    "Oh? That''s crazy."


    "... what''s up?


    Opal raised his doubts when he finally saw the big rock.


    So Claude contemplates. Not really, he realized he had been silent for a long time, and rushed back to Opal to ask.


    Opal also doesn''t look angry at Claude like that, he points to the big rock and laughs.


    "Think it''s smaller than I remember. I came here before... twelve years ago and I still don''t feel as big as I did then. And then you didn''t grow taller, but that''s crazy, right?


    "So it''s easy to climb?


    "Are you provoking me?


    "What do you think?


    "Right...... Well, let''s compete!


    "Ah, hey!


    Having seen Claude''s mean grin, Opal suddenly ran out after pretending to think for a second.


    Well done competition back in the day, usually Opal starts first, but as a matter of course the result is lost.


    I put down a surprise claude this time too, I started quite a bit earlier, but it quickly overtook me.


    Feet on some smaller rocks, fly over to a slightly larger rock and climb to the biggest one at the end.


    When we both got to the top of the big rock, we were out of breath, sitting back.


    "... I wonder what you''re doing..."


    "Opal... you started..."


    "I provoked... not Claude. Me... Twenty-seven?


    "I''m twenty-nine."


    We talked about our age with regret for each other and laughed out both ways.


    I can''t breathe enough to laugh.


    Still, eventually when we were ready to breathe, we both watched the nostalgic scenery in silence.


    Even though the age and position of the two of us have changed dramatically, nothing seems to have changed from the old days when we are doing this.


    But not all the time, Opal took a big breath once and stared at Claude sitting next to him.


    "Claude."


    "What the fuck?"


    "Thank you so much for investing in man-testing. If you hadn''t sent me a technician, if you hadn''t put in the funds, the Duke would have been bankrupt. Even you had a big risk... I really appreciate it, though it''s not enough to exhaust my words. Thanks, Claude."


    "... that''s not something to be thanked for. With the technology of the kingdom of Tysey, I stepped in and said that I would always make a profit. Indeed, the initial investment was significant. But now that we''re collecting it well, it wasn''t a mistake. You know it''s Opal, right? He''s one of the investors."


    "Right... It was pretty risky though. Investing is with gambling, right? I''m sorry I ever thought of that again."


    At that time, to the Marquis Roussel - if Claude hadn''t been able to assist him, Hubert would have been bankrupt.


    Nearly five years later, the Kingdom of Tysey is now perfectly stable, sending technicians to various countries to train technicians again in each country, so railway opening is not that difficult.


    It''s just that it was that time of year, and even now it''s bringing me huge profits.


    Opal took another big breath and braved himself to face a reality he didn''t even want to know about.


    "So... this is the first time I''ve been back in a long time to introduce you to your family... your wife?


    "... what? Your wife?"


    "Didn''t we get married?


    "Who asked you that? Such lies."


    "Huh? Yes, no. I didn''t hear it from anyone... I just thought so on my own..."


    "Why, did you think that on your own?


    "So, because, you see, Claude is the Marquis, and he''s almost thirty..."


    Opal was delighted, though he hastily explained to Claude, who inquired in an angry tone.


    Just because Claude is single doesn''t mean anything changes.


    Still, I wanted you to be happy with a woman you didn''t know about Opal and where you don''t.


    "Don''t mention the year. Ever since... I just didn''t feel like it. Besides, this time I''ve finally been able to take my family... to the kingdom of Tysey, so I picked her up."


    "With your family... are you moving?


    "No, I don''t have that. Even my mother came here with her father ready to bury her bones in this country. Still, the kingdom of Tysey is my mother''s home. The close family has died, but you will want to visit the grave, and some servants still know their mother in the consulate where they were born and raised, as well as in the mansion of Wang Du. Well, you''d be surprised at your hometown, which has changed quite a bit in the last forty years. We can travel by rail to our territory."


    Claude, who speaks happily, has the same grin as he did as a boy.


    I''ve been excited to even Opal, but I had to tell you something, I deliberately flaunted my face.


    "Still, it''s terrible that you haven''t even contacted me before. Even your aunt was so worried."


    That''s what I complained about Opal, but at the same time it made me awkward to remember a letter I had previously written.


    But Claude will look awkward again.


    "I''m sorry, Opal. Actually, I''ve been in touch with my mother for a long time."


    "... all the time?


    "It''s been about four years, to be exact. Until then, it was best served by rebuilding the country with His Majesty. Besides, I thought if I found out I was in the kingdom of Tysey, I''d be worried the other way around. So I had Count Holloway keep it a secret. Then when the population settled down, the Duke of McCloud came... and finally wrote to my mother to contact her family."


    "Then why didn''t my aunt... nobody in the Baron''s family tell me? Don''t worry about me..."


    I met with the Baroness about a year ago, and she missed the conversation and couldn''t tell me anything.


    Opal was about to get depressed when he meant to get along pretty well with the barons.


    But somehow Claude apologizes again.


    "I''m sorry about that, too. Sorry."


    "Why would Claude apologize?


    "I was talking to my mothers. I don''t want Opal to tell anyone."


    "Is that because I read that letter?


    "That letter?


    I thought Claude didn''t want to contact herself because of that penitentiary letter Opal wrote.


    That''s right. Claude must have despised a woman who cheated on her property from her husband, too.


    But Claude doesn''t seem to know right away.


    "It''s a letter I wrote to Claude about seven years ago. But because I don''t know where Claude is, the letter my aunt kept for me."


    "Oh, that one! The one who took his fortune from that duke."


    "Hey, don''t say that out loud."


    "You haven''t heard anyone, have you? Besides, that... let me be honest with you?


    "Yeah, yeah. Go ahead."


    "I''m sorry, but you made me laugh."


    "Huh?"


    "No, if it''s normal, you might think it''s a joke or something. You already thought it was the truth. Opal would definitely do it."


    "... don''t you despise me? He''s a terrible one."


    Opal has been worried for over seven years about regretting sending out letters or telling himself that this was a good idea.


    And yet Claude says he laughed a lot when he read the letter.


    When Opal inquired in a vehement manner, Claude gave him a serious look and gently stroked Opal''s head, as he used to.


    "I didn''t just laugh. I was actually quite angry."


    "To me?


    "No, to the Duke. I guess that''s why you did all that, huh? Yet I was also angry at myself for not being able to help anything"


    "Oh no, Claude is nothing wrong..."


    "No, I shouldn''t have left this country. But I couldn''t even go back now. Still, Opal worked hard on his own. I''ve heard that the Duke of McCloud is now as prosperous as this Earl of Holloway territory, even though it would have been a lot harder. Opal, you''ve done something that everyone admires. So you can put your chest up. You''re the best."


    "Claude......"


    I swore to my mother that I wouldn''t cry, but I''ve already shed many tears.


    I just cried earlier.


    Yet tears overflow from Opal''s eyes one after another.


    "... of Claude, silly"


    "Why not?"


    "Because I was worried. Wow..."


    "So he said it was bad. Sorry, Opal."


    Claude held Opal, who lay his hands on the big rock and wept.


    It was a little bold to do in a scenic place, but Opal was quiet without saying anything.


    I wonder since when I''ve had such a hug and consolation.


    And that reminded me that it was almost fifteen years ago.


    The other guy wasn''t my father or my brother, he was still Claude.


    Just like then, the peace of mind that you''re protected.


    I want to do this all the time.


    You don''t listen to what your body says to me, even though I suppress the feeling of thinking so and tell myself I need to leave now.


    Just a little sweeter, Opal continued the conversation.


    "... so, how could you keep it from me?


    "Because I was weak."


    "Claude...?


    "I couldn''t get Keri on me, and I couldn''t."


    Claude whispers in his ear before Opal understands the meaning of the word.


    "Hey, Opal."


    "... hey, what?


    "Will you come with me to the kingdom of Tysey?

 29 29. Departure

    "Is that... you mean with Claude''s family?


    Surprised by Claude''s words, Opal gained momentum and got out of his arms.


    Then I look seriously at Claude and ask.


    Then Claude smiled bitterly and shook his neck to the side.


    "A little different. He wants you to marry me."


    Opal touched his own ear wondering if he had misheard.


    That''s not why I know what it is.


    Claude solicited more as he saw the opal obviously wandering.


    "I like Opal. Long time ago. But it was too disproportionate, and I wasn''t really going to confess. Nevertheless, twice before, I have asked the Count to marry Opal"


    "It''s..."


    "You heard from the Count, didn''t you?


    "Yep... the other day..."


    "The other day... That''s not cool..."


    To Claude''s confession, Opal was full of breasts, unable to respond well.


    Of course I was glad to hear from my father, but I honestly wasn''t happy because of my regrets for my stupid self and the thought that the rest might come from sympathy.


    But now Claude told me he likes Opal.


    I''m glad to hear that. That was enough.


    "I was going to take the right steps then. But the truth is, I just didn''t have the courage to confess to Opal. So now I''m going to say it right in person. Many times. Opal, marry me."


    "... I can''t do that."


    "After all, are you nasty now?


    "That''s not true. But..."


    "But what? We''re friends, so we can''t?


    I was incredibly happy with the proposal from Claude.


    So much so that it seems possible to jump off this great rock with the force that springs from within your body.


    Still Opal lay his eyes down and summoned reason to say no, but Claude wouldn''t back down.


    "You don''t like me?


    "No way!"


    "So you like me?


    "... Claude, we have this, like, child-dyed interaction - eh!?


    Opal''s words in an attempt to persuade him were suddenly interrupted by Claude''s kiss.


    My first kiss with Claude was very comfortable and Opal wondered if this was a real kiss and returned it to me.


    "Claude!"


    "Didn''t you like it?


    "- Oh, come on, this place is so beautiful!


    "I know. It''s convenient to be marked from anywhere."


    "So what if someone was watching you!


    "What, you care about your reputation?


    "I don''t have a reputation to worry about, I do. But Claude needs to get married from now on..."


    Claude doesn''t look like he cared at all about Opal''s protest either.


    Claude hugs Opal again, who is angry and sad and gradually loses momentum.


    "I''m gonna marry you, so everyone''s gonna take a big look at this."


    "... hey, were you listening to me?


    "I''ve heard enough. Opal hates lies for a long time, and when he really has to throw up lies, he deflects his attention, and so does the story. So, Opal likes me, you mean he wants to get married, right?


    The much-spoken opal hurriedly escaped the scene as he pushed Claude over.


    But it was unstable on the rock, and Claude caught me jumping from the big rock onto a slightly larger rock instead of scaffolding.


    "Don''t be impotent, Opal. Me and you, we''re already losing strength. You said it yourself, didn''t you?


    "That''s right. So... I can''t."


    "What?


    Not as good as when we climb, but we''re lightly out of breath with each other.


    The only reason Opal''s palpitations were so intense was because he was being held harder by Claude than earlier.


    I want you to free yourself from this torture already, but Claude''s not going to forgive me.


    "Claude, now that you''re the Marquis... you''ll need a succession, won''t you? But I''m almost twenty-seven, and the kid..."


    "What I need is an opal, not a heir. What I want is an opal, not a heir. Okay?"


    "That''s not the problem."


    "That''s the problem. Still stubborn, aren''t you? Just say we''re getting married."


    "I won''t tell."


    What didn''t bother me so much about Hubert makes me very concerned about Claude.


    I wanted to have a child of whomever I wanted, if possible - Claude''s child.


    But given my age, I was scared.


    And yet, Claude doesn''t try to pull it off.


    "Okay. So you want me to return the Marquis?


    "It''s not good! If I did that, my aunt - what would your family think! Besides, Claude will surely be a fine lord, and the people will be in trouble!


    "But if Opal won''t marry me, I''ll be in trouble"


    It doesn''t work if Opal is mad at Claude for saying something terrible.


    Claude''s stubborn enough, too, but he doesn''t seem conscious.


    "You know, I also have a small piece of land that needs to be managed. I started having dogs, and I had a lot of other things to do."


    "Well, I''ll live over here with Opal, and I''ll be back over there once in a while."


    "Then I should go home now and then, shouldn''t I?


    "All right, let''s do that. That''s a decision."


    I''m not good at trying to convince Claude somehow.


    On the contrary, as soon as I accidentally get into Claude proposing an easy solution, it becomes a matter of decision.


    "Hey, Claude. I didn''t say I was getting married."


    "Still, you will, won''t you? So look at me, Opal."


    Now even if you want to run away, you''re still held tight, and you can''t run away.


    Hounded Opal finally surrendered and raised his face.


    Then Claude smiles happily with an eye wrinkle he never used to have.


    I kind of regretted it, and Opal told me a secret to keep.


    "The dog I started owning is named Claude."


    "... Any name changes?


    "No, you can''t. He''s a prankster and he''s still in the middle of something, but he only remembered his name. It''s true that the worse you do, the cuter you are."


    "... I''ll accept it"


    Opal laughed when he saw Claude sighing like he''d given up.


    Claude then deliberately glances at his face and again hugs and kisses Opal hard.


    And Opal understood that this was the real kiss.


    That''s right, Claude was also helping me out in that overly scenic place.


    Opal floated with Naja on her first voyage and was just overwhelmed by the prosperity of her first exotic land - the kingdom of Tysey.


    Travel by passenger rail from port to Wangdu.


    Although it had been a strong country for a long time, the kingdom had developed to such an extent that it did not think it had been rough with the plague and civil war eight years earlier.


    The technical skills of this country were meant to be known in man-testing, but they were still sweet.


    This certainly also convinces me that the social community became noisy when the engagement of Opal and the Marquis Roussel of the Kingdom of Tysey was announced.


    With Opal, who was finally able to live quietly, many more invitations came after the engagement was announced.


    But those seemed clear at the bottom of my mind that I wanted to get close to the Marquis Roussel, and Claude and I gave a no reply to everything laughing.


    Apparently no one has noticed yet that Claude, the Baron''s three sons, is the Marquis of Roussel, and not a single one has been delivered to Claude.


    That''s the same with Hubert, who asked his father several times when those two had become so close.


    But without answering, my father advised me that I should think about myself and my future family, because Opal''s personal affairs were no longer relevant.


    Hubert said he''s been completely quiet since then, and some of the social community seems to take a downward look, but both Opal and Claude had decided to ignore it.


    (I don''t mind, but I''ll have to show my face to the social community in that country from now on, and I''ll have another chance to see the Duke, won''t I? One of these days you''ll know who the Marquis Roussel is...)


    Opal is an investor in man-testing and is not out of touch with Hubert.


    Plus, I just started an organization for women, so from now on, I''ll have to be in a social setting to solicit donations.


    At that time, the train arrived at the station, just thinking that we should talk about what was needed.


    And the Opals, who got off the train, broke up with the barons and their wives and boarded the three carriages of the Marquis family that Claude had prepared.


    Claude joins Opal, Naja and the dog Claude in a carriage to the Marquis residence of Roussel in the King''s Capital.


    Eventually, when the carriage began to run, both Opal and Naja were just admiring the streets seen through the windows.


    The dog Claude is in the carriage because he was put in a gauge on board and on the train, or in the carriage he sleeps snuggly in his seat and puts his jaw on Claude''s lap.


    The human Claude was in a subtle mood and was silent for a while, but opened his mouth remembering what he had to talk about before he got married.


    "Speaking of which, I forgot to tell you, on my way home this time, I was telling His Majesty that I would not return to this country until I had been acquainted with my marriage."


    To Claude''s sudden confession, Opal returned consciousness to the car in surprise.


    Naja keeps a peek out the window whether she cares or not.


    "... what were the aunts going to do?


    "We''re all adults, so you can act on your own as long as you have arrangements in place. More than that, now it was my intention not to hesitate to dictate Opal. I thought quite a bit about how I could get out of just childhood taming. Well, if it hadn''t worked out, grab it, but I''d have brought you to this country and spoken to you again."


    "Claude... grabbing people is a felony."


    "It''s okay. Your Majesty said it." Then grab that childhood, but come back. "


    "... I heard His Majesty the King of the kingdom of Tysey was a very fine man"


    "He''s a fine man. So here''s the deal."


    "Do you still have it?


    "It''s no big deal. Your Majesty is supposed to give me the Duke when I return, as a condition of leaving this country. I don''t want to, but the previous commotion has reduced the number of Aristocrats, so there''s more."


    "I don''t think it''s a problem to have extra... So, Claude''s gonna be the Duke?


    "In this country. So Opal will be Duchess again. More territory, but it would help if you could manage it together."


    "That''s... of course, I''ll try, but... I''m anxious."


    "Don''t worry about it. You two would be fine, wouldn''t you? Besides, Opal is good at territorial management, and I''m a fruit payer."


    "... being a duke and having more territory... big deal..."


    While Opal was stunned by what he had just heard, the carriage arrived at the Marquis de Roussel residence.


    When Opal gets off the carriage with Claude''s hand, the Baroness, who had arrived earlier, is having an inspiring reunion with the familiar deacons and servants.


    The family left it to their mother to decide it was okay, and Claude began explaining alongside Opal looking up at the Marquis Mansion.


    The dog claude has gone up and down the stairs.


    "This is the Mansion in the King''s Capital since the time the Roussels were Earls, and half the servants have not changed. But I''m sorry about your mother, but it was a little inconvenient, so I modernized it."


    "... very, very nice."


    "I''m glad you think so. But if you try living it, maybe not, so you can always tell me if you''re unhappy. I''ll fix it again."


    Opal looked up at the Marquis de Roussel mansion, but there was a figure in his brain of the Duke of McCloud mansion that he looked up on that day of separation.


    For this reason, Opal answered blurry, but consciousness returns to the present with the words of Claude that followed.


    "I''m sure I''m not dissatisfied. And... the attic seems comfortable to live in."


    "Oh. No matter how much attic it is, it would feel better to have bigger windows if we were to use it as a room, wouldn''t it?


    "Right. That''s for sure."


    Opal, who answered confidently, turned his full grin toward Claude.


    Having seen that smile, Claude raises one eyebrow as she asks.


    Because I know Opal very well, I think I realized it meant something.


    "Sometimes it''s fun to cage in the attic,"


    "Then I''ll have a cage with you."


    Without surprise at Opal''s words, Claude answered with a grin.


    In that claude-like return, Opal laughed out loud.


    If it is indeed Claude, we will surely enjoy it together no matter what happens next.


    The memories are - living in the attic willingly, you should talk about it one of these days.


    Claude would laugh at me again and ask.


    So now you just have to look forward.


    Opal, smiling with Claude, went up the stairs step by step to the mansion where the two of us were going to live.

 30 1. Duration of engagement

    The third day we arrived at Claude''s mansion in the king''s capital of the kingdom of Tysey.


    Opal and Claude''s family had finally settled down, and Opal was enjoying Claude and his afternoon tea.


    Sometimes I refrain from a wedding in a few days, and I am also allowed to spend time alone in the mansion.


    If it was Claude, Opal would never run out of talk, but somehow the hush dropped, and then Claude called quietly.


    "... Opal"


    I don''t know, Claude.


    Claude knew it was important to tell a story at a time like this, so Opal put the cup he had in his hand back on the table.


    Then Claude goes on like it''s hard to say.


    "It may be cowardly for you to take the proposal and bring me to this country and say it now..."


    "- From now on, are you a lover of the past or could you possibly meet your mistress?


    "No way! You''ve decided not to do such dishonesty!


    "Then what''s the problem?


    Opal smiled and inquired, but was relieved in his heart.


    While I was married until about a year ago, I still didn''t want to face Claude''s past women.


    Compared to that, I don''t care what happens. - No, I''d probably be desperate if they said, "I still can''t marry you," though.


    "Actually... how can I be a lover or mistress of the past... You don''t think it''s in its current progression?


    "Claude would never propose to me if it was currently in progress. ''Cause, by the way, I''m not even worried about cheating."


    "... I''m glad you trusted me"


    "Yeah. Because if you''re Claude, you''re not serious about cheating, are you? If you do, you''ll tell me what''s right. She said she had someone she liked."


    "When you say that with a laugh, you don''t know if you should be happy or sad"


    "Alas, I just didn''t say it because I didn''t want to burden you, and if you''re serious, then you''ll be desperate. That''s why we keep trying not to be abandoned by Claude. But maybe these strong things aren''t cute."


    I think the strength of my chi is an advantage for Opal, but sometimes I admire something called a weak woman.


    At the end of the day, Claude stared at Opal, who had become like a sighing stupidity.


    "... did I say something that weird?


    "No...... I can''t believe Opal thinks so much about himself - because I never thought he wasn''t cute."


    "Yeah? You don''t usually think you''re cute about yourself, do you?


    "I''m not. I think there are quite a few women."


    "Then there are a lot of men. But it''s a narcissistic person, and I wouldn''t call that normal."


    "Still tough."


    Opal, who answered with clarity, reflected on the fact that it had become another unattractive way of saying it.


    But this is also because I found out that Claude has dated quite a few women.


    Come to think of it, Opal doesn''t really know Claude since he got into boarding school.


    And even in the eight years I didn''t see him - I realized that I knew almost exclusively by rumor what I had done in this country.


    "... no way, you can''t get married because you''ve got some kind of situation?


    "No, I''m not! Even if that were the case, I would marry Opal. Don''t let something you don''t understand swing at you."


    "Yes...... So, what is it?


    Claude told me so far, and I guess I should even say a word if it''s true that I''m happy, but I couldn''t say it to Opal anymore because it''s lit up.


    I shouldn''t have cared before, but I''m not used to Opal for myself wanting Claude to think I''m cute.


    Just looking at Claude, I also wonder if that''s all foreseeable.


    It is a vicious circle, because it will be regrettable and mean again.


    "Actually, it''s about me, it''s not really accepted in the social world of this kingdom of Tysey,"


    "Oh, what an odd encounter. I do too in the Soci��t�� kingdom of my country."


    "It''s not funny."


    "But Claude is laughing."


    Claude''s confession wasn''t as big a deal to Opal as clapping it out.


    Return your feelings as they are, Claude complains with a laugh.


    "You have no choice. Opal makes me laugh. I knew Opal was Opal."


    "Of course I do. So, it''s a funny story that Claude is a marquis, but also unacceptable to be duke soon. Surely, three generations ago, Count Roussell was married to a lady from the Duke of Botzelli''s house, wasn''t she? I don''t think it''s strange that Claude would give the former Duke of Botzelli territory, either, in blood?


    "Well, the Roussels are the right family, and the Duke of Botzelli and I are related. Some people just make fun of my origins. A foreigner. Well, there''s no one to say it face to face, and everyone treats you politely on the spot, but in the shadows they say things."


    "Well, it''s an odd encounter. I''m told a lot in the shadows, too."


    When Opal answered just like earlier, Claude laughed out loud this time.


    Opal glanced at Claude like that deliberately, but soon he got stuck and started laughing.


    When the two of us laughed and settled down on the street, Claude opened her mouth happily.


    "I knew I only had Opal."


    "Hey, what... you don''t get anything for saying that."


    "But you''ll marry me, won''t you?


    "Naturally. Promise."


    "Even though you might struggle in the social world?


    "I''m not going to have a hard time. Claude has nothing to be ashamed of. On the contrary, I''m not a hero. Be proud."


    "... thanks, Opal"


    Claude smiling softly and thanking him was cool and Opal missed his face again.


    Still, words pop out of my mouth in the blindfold.


    "Though this country has a developed rail network and various technologies are state-of-the-art, you think very old-fashioned. That''s unexpected."


    "The old-fashioned idea is that of the social world - the so-called upper-class people. I don''t like the fact that people from civilians with new ideas are getting richer and richer. In the first place, civil unrest eight years ago was also planned by conservative nobles headed by the Duke of Botzelli, who couldn''t agree with His Majesty''s idea of making it a livable country for everyone. The reformers like me have now been entrusted with a high office, but they were deciding on opportunism - many of the so-called moderates are in fact conservatives. What they say about me being a hero is just the popularity of the people. It would be easier to fan the people if there were an understandable symbol of justice, wouldn''t it?


    "... the way you put it, it''s like it''s being used, but is that okay with Claude?


    "I thought that would do it. But if you don''t like Opal, I''ll pull you into the territory and focus on territorial management."


    I''m joking, but Opal also figured out Claude meant it.


    I guess it doesn''t matter if you''re not going to abandon the people, the power struggle in the royal castle.


    If we''re just going for a real ideal, we need power.


    Claude will know enough about that, too, to draw Opal''s feelings.


    Then even Opal wants to live up to that feeling.


    "Claude, the thing I hate the most is running away. Even if I have no choice but to withdraw strategically, I don''t like to escape without a fight. So I''ll fight. With Claude."


    ����


    "... Claude?


    I was hoping it smelled a bit, but still I was going to tell you how honest I felt, but Claude stayed silent.


    Shamefully speaking, Claude seemed to panic as a haunt.


    "Huh? Oh, oh, sorry. Opal was so cool and in love."


    "... are you kidding me?


    "I mean it. Just a little... no, I''m so relieved"


    The relieved look on Claude''s face really seems to be a heartfelt relief.


    I fear Opal will discredit Claude because of himself with a history of divorce, but Claude only worries about Opal.


    So if it was for Claude, I would have been ready to fight, but I was frightened by what Claude told me the next time.


    "Well, I''m sorry, but will you fight with me tomorrow?


    Tomorrow?


    "Actually, I''m going up to the royal castle tomorrow to report on my marriage. So let me report to Your Majesty with you."


    "Oh, tomorrow, to Your Majesty... how could you not say that first!?


    "You tell me first, Opal will always go with you, won''t you? But I didn''t want you to have to. His Majesty is not the one who pays attention to the details, so he doesn''t care if Opal doesn''t show up on the table. You don''t have to socialize annoyingly."


    Again, Claude cares about me for Opal.


    Sure, the social world was troublesome and I hated Opal, but I can work as hard as I want for Claude.


    But I didn''t even want that feeling to be a burden on Claude, and Opal made it clear again with a clear face.


    "I''ll take that as a challenge to me. When I marry Claude, I make annoying socializing fun. And let the social world in the kingdom of Tysey bullshit."


    "That''s Opal. You''re reliable."


    Claude immediately laughed and replied, although he rounded his eyes for a moment to an opal-like and forceful declaration.


    Thus opened the curtain for Opal''s new battle.

 31 2. Royal Castle

    The next day.


    From the Marquis''s residence in Roussel to the Royal Castle, it didn''t take much time to arrive by carriage.


    Of course, the proximity of the Royal Castle was noticed as soon as he came to the Mansion, but what surprised Opal was that he proceeded without ever stopping until the carriage dropped in front of the Royal Castle.


    That''s all I can see about Claude''s position within the royal castle.


    "... hey now what position does Claude hold in the royal castle?


    "Oh well. I haven''t explained it yet, but I''m your secretary."


    "That doesn''t mean you''re secretary to the king, does it?


    "This time, I offered to resign because I''m leaving beside His Majesty... because I''m still on hold, and I think I''m probably going to be reinstated"


    "Are all the social circles in this country stupid? I can''t believe you won''t accept the Secretary of the King..."


    "On the face of it, it''s very favorable. Instead, he snuggles around with me. Sounds like you''re just saying whatever you want back there. So Opal too... if they say something they don''t know is a custom in this country, you can ignore it. It''s a new custom to eliminate foreigners."


    "If that''s the case, I''ll take care of it"


    Claude laughed pleasantly as Opal answered with his chest stretched.


    That smile gives Opal courage.


    (That''s right. The weak woman - there are a lot of women who look weak, but still Claude chose me)


    Opal''s intensity of mind hasn''t changed since he was young.


    You proposed to me by saying you like opals like that, so you just have to trust Claude.


    With that in mind, Opal''s anxiety disappeared.


    "Well, why don''t you tell me who Claude doesn''t want to turn to his enemies, though I''ll ask him before we go to battle?


    "Oh, that''s easy. The only reason I don''t want to turn to my enemies is because Opal is alone."


    "Claude...... I''m really asking."


    "Yeah. That''s why I''m really answering that, too."


    Opal stares at Claude making jokes.


    But Claude stayed smiling.


    In the end Opal suppressed the laughter that engulfed him more than his anger, and inquired further in serious condition.


    "But just couldn''t turn His Majesty against the enemy?


    "The other way around, Opal. Your Majesty doesn''t want to turn me against the enemy."


    "... that''s a much stronger statement. If someone asks you, you''ll be guilty of disrespect.


    "Your Majesty would laugh and say you''re right."


    Staring at Claude''s face, who remained smiling unchanged, Opal sighed loudly.


    There must be something about it, though it is deluded by jokes.


    Opal was also going to grow up struggling the past eight years, but I guess Claude was more than that.


    I''m sure I just didn''t tell you, and maybe there was an exchange of lives.


    Thinking about it made Opal anxious again.


    I wonder if this marriage is really right.


    I was wondering if there would be a woman in this country who would be more of a shield behind Claude.


    That''s all I thought about, Opal got annoyed.


    I just felt confident earlier, what are you feeling weak about?


    If Claude needs a back shield, you just have to be yourself.


    Opal is still a newcomer in this country, but he has knowledge, experience and wealth.


    Because she''s not a little girl who''s stuck in her own situation and locked herself in the attic anymore.


    Emotional instability is due to tension, and everyone would be upset if they were to see the king of this country from now on.


    "... Claude"


    "Yeah, you okay?


    "I''m nervous, but I''m fine. But Claude might regret choosing me."


    "I won''t."


    "Then I''ll make you regret it. I wonder how you got such a strong wife."


    "That''s exciting."


    Now to Claude, who speaks up and laughs, the people who go out look back in surprise.


    Even though it was in the spotlight, it was now not hesitant to be seen.


    But even though Opal has been pulling into the country for a while, I''m used to people''s gaze, so I don''t care.


    It doesn''t matter if it''s malicious.


    And Claude doesn''t look like he cared again, he''s grand.


    Moreover, the samurai Naja, who had accompanied her, was not frightened, but seemed rare and frightened as she walked a little behind her.


    "Thanks for hanging out with me, Naja"


    "It is up to me to thank you, my lady! I can''t believe you brought me to such a lovely place!


    Opal smiled and responded to Naja, who still wouldn''t break his pace, before turning forward.


    Naja apparently worked as a samurai apprentice for a certain Marquis family during the past few years in a handout of Count Holloway, Opal''s father.


    It was also because I was determined to be a fine samurai and be beside Opal for Opal, who had no allies in his ex-husband, the Duke of McCloud family.


    Opal, Marcia, the housekeeper at the Count Holloway''s, was thrilled to hear about it, and asked him if he could follow me this time.


    Perhaps there are many opal enemies in this country as well.


    Still, there are two powerful allies right beside me.


    Having completely regained his confidence, Opal smiled at the people who were turning their gaze to see even rare things.


    "Opal, don''t be too attractive to me. You''re going crazy for jealousy."


    "You don''t believe me?


    "It''s not about Opal, it''s about me. I believe in Opal, but you can''t even interfere with the mind of the one who likes Opal, can you? But I can''t allow Opal to exist in the minds of other men."


    "I agree. I''d be jealous if Claude just existed in the hearts of other women."


    "I''ll be jealous of you both, though!


    Naja hastily interrupted and stopped the exchange between the two, which was clearly just a love affair.


    As a servant, I''m only disrespectful, but I laugh without worrying about Opal or Claude.


    So they just got to the room of interest, and Claude pulled over and knocked and opened the door without waiting for a response.


    "Your Majesty will be telling us that we have arrived, so it will take a while for us to call you. Until then, let''s just wait here and relax."


    Claude, who gently checked inside and urged him to enter the opal first, then told him that Naja would reluctantly enter the room as well, closing the door.


    And ring the bell.


    A young daughter in this royal castle maid-like uniform showed up as soon as possible and asked Claude to prepare her tea.


    The lack of instructional form seems to be Claude, making Opal happy.


    Whatever your position, Claude still hasn''t changed.


    "What''s wrong?


    "No, it''s nothing."


    "Really?"


    Claude asked if he wondered about the smiling opal.


    I didn''t feel like I could successfully explain this warmth, so when Opal answered without difficulty, Claude didn''t pursue it in depth either.


    A knock sounds there, and if Claude responds, a man''s voice.


    Apparently a friend, Claude immediately opened the door and invited him indoors.


    "Opal, I''m sorry for the rush, but I''d like you to meet my friend. He is Erik Bapot. Baron Prado. Erik, this is Opal, my fianc��e and soon to be my wife. Well, we''re talking about Opal, so I guess I don''t have to introduce you now."


    "Oh, right. I''m sick and tired of hearing it."


    If Opal gets up and welcomes a man, Claude will make an introduction.


    The man - Erik was very close to Claude, but Opal intuited.


    He is hostile to himself, he said.


    "Nice to meet you, Baron Prado. Opal Holloway."


    "Not McCloud?


    "Eric!"


    "It''s a joke, Claude. Nice to meet you, Miss Ho (...) Lo (...) U (...) Ye (...) I (...) Miss Claude has always been favored by many young and beautiful ladies, but I see why I chose you. So beautiful."


    "- Thank you."


    Opal''s intuition was right, and Erik wanted to hate it everywhere.


    Claude seems to have noticed right away too, but when you make Opal laugh that he''s okay, he pulls.


    I just can''t stand being sheltered here by Claude, etc.


    Claude, who sensed Opal''s will, sighed like he''d given up somewhere.

 32 3. Royal Castle

    "If you don''t mind, could you call me Eric?


    "I beg your pardon, Baron Prado. It''s cool to stay holloway about me. You''ll be calling me Mrs. Roussel shortly."


    "Really..."


    In response to Erik, Opal clearly indicated that he was not going to get along or be disturbed in his friendship with Claude.


    Then Claude, who was listening in silence, erupts.


    "Erik, whatever you think I''m going to marry Opal, and Opal doesn''t care what you think. So if you''re going to be my friend, welcome Opal or don''t say anything"


    "It''s a misunderstanding, Claude. Nevertheless, if you misled me, I apologize. Miss Holloway, I''m very sorry for your loss."


    "No, I don''t mind. Because I don''t care."


    Claude laughed and told me exactly which one to take - the opal.


    Exactly. Eric seems to know a lot about Claude, too, and he utters words of apology.


    When Opal replied with a chuckle, Erik slipped away and turned back to Claude.


    "Yes, I forgot the key thing. Claude, Lord Barba called."


    "I''m sorry, but I can''t leave this place."


    "I hear Your Majesty''s morning plans have been prolonged, and he''s just returned to the royal castle earlier, so he hasn''t called you yet. So you should go to Lord Barba. Apparently, Your Majesty has said that the ball the day after tomorrow is also to celebrate your engagement. Isn''t that the detail?


    "Also, that one did that..."


    Claude answered Erik''s words annoyingly.


    Still, as Erik persuades, Claude sighs loudly.


    Sir Barba would mean the Earl, who chairs the House of Lords in this country.


    Should be one of Claude''s allies.


    "Claude, what if I''m okay? I''m here for tea."


    "But..."


    "Don''t worry, Claude. Until then, I''ll be her partner."


    Erik accompanied him to hesitate to hold Claude back, but Claude sees Opal just saying he''s worried about it.


    Opal enjoyed a laugh that seemed to leak unexpectedly, but Claude seemed to have spotted him well.


    Claude, who deliberately gave the look of confusion, then sighed a third time.


    "Not at all... I don''t have time to rest."


    "You''re feeling too much, Claude."


    Claude won''t be fooled if Opal has a tender grin that cares.


    Still sighing for the fourth time, Claude turned to Erik.


    "Eric, I think of you as a friend. So allow time with your precious Opal. Please."


    "Don''t worry, Claude. Miss Holloway will accompany you, and you will not be offended."


    Erik let him close one eye toward Naja, who quietly refrained in the corner of the room.


    Unlike her usual attitude, Naja leans shyly.


    The results of Naja''s training at the Marquis seemed solid.


    "Don''t be silly, Eric. - Well, I''ll be right back, Opal."


    "Yeah, come on in. You''ll be waiting here quietly."


    "... oh"


    When Claude embarrassed Erik, he spoke to Opal to tell him.


    Honestly Opal should have answered, but Claude narrows his eyes and nods suspiciously.


    And when Claude left, the maid brought the tea in the wrong place, but she seemed surprised to find Erik.


    "We can make our own tea, so we''re good here now. Thanks."


    "... Yes, I did. Excuse me, sir."


    The maid bowed her head looking faintly discouraged.


    Opal understood with a glimpse of Erik as he unfortunately left the room.


    Apparently, the baron who sat in front of him was popular with women.


    "Is Baron Prado married?


    "... I''m single. Because I have something to ask of my wife and my lover, to some extent. For example, chastity."


    "Well......"


    Opal just asked purely out of curiosity, but Eric seems to have caught it distorted.


    Opal said nothing in particular, just smiling, in a reply that contained a rather disgust.


    Opal''s old "mundane rumors probably remain widespread in this kingdom of Tysey.


    Something called bad rumors spreads quickly, but good rumors are hard to spread.


    It doesn''t matter now for Opal, but Naja, who heard about Erik''s dislike, seemed different, placing the cup on the table with no heart or rampage.


    I can tell you grew up just not disputing it.


    "Thank you, Naja. It''s all right now."


    "Oh...... thanks"


    I don''t know if Erik is surprised that Opal thanked the samurai or because he felt Naja''s anger.


    Naja senses what Opal''s words contain, and when she lowers her head, she moves to the corner of the room again.


    Then having a sip of tea, Opal asked Erik again when he returned the cup to the saucer.


    "I know it''s rude of you to ask such questions, but when did you get to know Claude?


    "... about four years ago. Claude was originally a friend of my brother Tulli''s, but I also came back from a study abroad to get along."


    "Oh, you''re Viscount Amady''s brother, aren''t you?


    "Do you know my brother?


    "Just your name. I''ve heard a lot from Claude."


    Erik seemed annoyed by these words of Opal.


    In short, he says, "I''ve never heard your name from Claude."


    To be honest, I remembered that I had also heard Erik''s name several times from Theuri''s.


    But Opal isn''t nice enough to say that.


    "So, can the Baron... be twenty-six?


    "Exactly, but is there a problem?


    "No, nothing"


    When Opal smiled, Erik looked back frigid.


    Still, Opal carelessly carries the cup gracefully into his mouth.


    Eric is just the same age as Hubert when Opal got married.


    If Eric finds out he''s still thinking he''s cute compared to Hubert back then, he''ll be pissed.


    That made me crazy to think about it, and Opal drank tea again to mislead the laughter.


    And I remember that Claude used to say he wanted my brother.


    He said that he was a three man and always used by his brothers, so he would be a sweet brother if he had a brother.


    Opal was sorry that he wasn''t a man at the time, and he was disappointed that he couldn''t be his sister.


    "- Are you really going to marry Claude?


    "Yes?"


    Opal, who remembered his childhood, had not heard Erik.


    Then Erik stares at Opal.


    "Claude is a great man to respect. So I suffer to understand why I chose you and others when there are as many women as I deserve more"


    "Yeah, Claude''s a great guy, really."


    "Then why don''t you think about pulling yourself back? If you''re serious about Claude, you should do anything for him, right?


    Opal himself, he certainly thought Claude would prefer a younger, backward-looking, patterned woman.


    However, Opal is also quite a favorable condition, except for his age and marital history.


    Even on a weak footing in this kingdom of Tysey, it has a strong backing and bourgeoisie in its fatherland, the Kingdom of Soci��t��.


    I don''t know if I''m overlooking that fact or if I dare not try to, but Erik''s words are only emotional theory.


    That in this country was troubling Opal himself, but I was angry at Erik''s way of saying it.


    "... that''s a lot sweet"


    "What!? Sweet is better for you! You are not welcome in this country! I don''t think I can do what I want with your country!


    One word of Opal seemed to ignite, which I accidentally whined about, and Erik started yelling.


    It''s like an eight-year-old reproduction, and a sigh leaks from a fed up opal.


    (Is this what all men look like these days? It''s a hassle...)


    Hubert''s yelling voice, which I think I even miss now, overlapped with the present.


    So I remember the letter I received yesterday.


    Speaking of which, the Duke''s was also enclosed in a letter from your father.


    I only read letters from my father then and completely forgot because I went for a walk on Claude the Dog first.


    When I was surprised at what the hell was going on by now, I heard Eric shouting so loud.


    "Hey! Are you listening!?


    "- If you were so loud, you wouldn''t like to hear it."


    "Claude!"


    "Oh, Claude. You were quicker than I thought, weren''t you?


    "... Oh, it looks like Your Majesty is ready, so go get Opal. Come on, let''s go?


    "Yes."


    Erik raised his surprise to Claude, who was coming into the room at some point.


    Opal was also heartily surprised, but if he turned his grin in the guise of calm, Claude would be in tune as well.


    "Okay, Naja. Wait a while."


    "Yes, sir."


    "Erik, you won''t be needing me anymore, will you?


    "Oh, oh..."


    "Goodbye, Baron Prado. That was fun."


    When Opal, who stood up, spoke to Naja, Claude also spoke to Erik at a slight thrust.


    So Opal greeted politely, but Erik frowned in displeasure.


    But Claude said nothing more, prompting Opal to turn his back on Erik.

 33 4. Seen

    "What did Eric tell you?


    It''s not a big deal.


    "Opal......"


    "Actually, I didn''t hear much about it."


    "... so Opal is ok?


    A while after I left the room, Claude asked me if I had cut the paralysis on Opal, who said nothing.


    So Opal answered honestly, but he wasn''t convinced.


    Opal laughed at Claude, who was worried about her face.


    "It''s okay. It''s within your expectations. Was Claude better than that?


    "Oh, or..."


    "Doesn''t sound okay, does it?


    Opal was now worried about Claude, whose voice had obviously changed.


    But Claude''s words continued.


    "When I entered Sir Barba''s office, His Majesty was there."


    "Huh?"


    "I thought calling me on purpose wasn''t like Lord Barba. You fooled me."


    When I heard about Claude sighing, Opal got anxious.


    The reason why the King and I are about to meet is obvious, such as calling only Claude first.


    "Hey, Claude. Isn''t His Majesty opposed to this marriage? Suppose..."


    "No, I''m not. I''m not against it, I''m just harassing you."


    "... I don''t know how it''s different."


    "You''re still stubborn that I offered to resign. Because you said, ''Which is more important, me or that childhood?'' That''s kind of a childhood thing - it''s up to Opal."


    "Your Majesty... was a man, wasn''t he?


    "Oh, he''s forty old men this year."


    "Claude."


    "Don''t worry about it. Because it''s common for me and Your Majesty to argue."


    Claude says seriously, without laughing, to Opal, who looks around in a hurry to see if someone had asked.


    Apparently Claude is angry.


    "Secretary is just a choreographer. How childish is it to harass me that the choreographer is gone and I have more work of my own? I mean Opal in the first place, because I wanted to introduce you after you got married properly, but I can''t believe you''re attending a ball, because I''m not called into a ceremony, so I don''t know what''s bothering you."


    "Really?


    "Oh. Even today. I want to separate Opal from me, but I called him in for it, and that made Opal uncomfortable with Eric. Don''t you?"


    "Huh? No... Not so much..."


    Opal was surprised at how the unusual Claude looked.


    Even though Claude seemed to be an adult these days and could always afford it, this looks like a childhood when he was talking about his brothers'' stupidity.


    Unexpectedly strange, Opal erupted.


    "Opal? That''s not funny."


    "It''s funny. Claude seems to be having fun."


    "Sounds fun?


    "Yeah, I am."


    Opal, who was worried about Claude''s last eight years, was happy to know that he had someone he could forgive his heart for.


    I''m angry with Eric, but I''m still worried about Claude.


    (Well, if Claude hadn''t shown up, he might have argued...)


    Opal now was looking forward to seeing the King, as the tension had been a lie some time ago.


    Makes me want to see how much Claude''s word "obstinate" is.


    He knows eight years of Claude, who Opal doesn''t know.


    Eventually Claude stopped in front of a room - in front of a door where the guards stood.


    And stare into Opal''s mood.


    "Right here."


    "... unexpected."


    "I guess so."


    I thought it would take place somewhere like a hall to see the king, but this looks like a private room.


    That''s all Claude and the king are close, and I can see the character of the king who doesn''t like being tough again.


    Opal stepped into the room prompted by Claude, feeling the guard''s intriguing gaze.


    Then the magnificent man who was inside gets up and spreads his hands toward Opal.


    "Welcome to my kingdom, my royal palace. Claude''s fianc��e, welcome."


    "Her Majesty, she is Opal Holloway. You''re right, it''s my fianc��e. - Opal, this is His Majesty King Alessandro."


    Of course, he didn''t jump into his arms, and Opal stood next to Claude, who stopped, for an introduction.


    I feel more distant from the King than I would if I had no heart or a normal greeting.


    "I''ll see you first. My name is Opal Holloway."


    "I don''t think it''s the first time you''ve heard a lot about it. Can I call you Opal, if you like?


    "Yes, Your Majesty"


    Opal, who broke his knee and greeted him, corrected his posture and, reluctantly, observed Alessandro.


    Alessandro chuckles when he realizes the gaze of such an opal.


    I got a friendly look as soon as I could, but Opal wasn''t fooled.


    (The atmosphere at first glance is different, but he looks like your father...)


    Count Holloway, the father of Opal, seems to be a very serene figure if one is not familiar with it.


    But his character is far from serene, and he is severely blind.


    Identify public opinion and read the market, move faster than anyone else to increase wealth.


    It uses its wealth and status to strengthen its voice in the royal palace and build even more wealth and status.


    Alessandro also developed to this point this kingdom of Tysey, which was rough with the plague and the battle for the throne, in the years since he took the throne again, so his arms are certain.


    As Opal sat alongside Claude on the recommended couch, a small thorny word just flew in.


    "Opal, I''m glad to finally meet you. Claude also had a voice asking me to marry my niece, but didn''t Claude say she wasn''t interested? But you weren''t interested in marriage, you weren''t interested in anything other than you."


    "- It is a great honour for you to say so. Claude is stubborn, so isn''t your majesty often in trouble, too?


    Opal replied with a gentle grin to Alessandro''s words with a soft grin.


    Claude seemed to have guessed Opal''s feelings and apparently decided not to pinch his mouth for a while.


    I''m laughing, but my eyes aren''t laughing.


    "Sure don''t let Claude''s stubbornness shut you up every once in a while. There are many beautiful women in this country as well. No matter how many times he was invited by such women, Claude did not shake his head vertically, but finally went to the Kingdom of Soci��t�� when he said he would propose to you. How relieved you are to be safely back..."


    "I''m glad to hear such a story. Something that has deepened my love for Claude. Thank you, Your Grace."


    "That''s good. It was only with Claude''s help that I was able to rebuild this country so far. I''m very grateful to Claude."


    "- Thank you for your worthless words"


    Couldn''t keep quiet any longer, Claude glanced at Alessandro with gratitude.


    But Alessandro grins and gently waves his right hand.


    "Oh, thank God. I''m still going to use it. So I''m really welcoming you, Opal. I''m sure you''ll support Claude very strongly. As I had previously acquired the property of my husband, the Duke of McCloud, in a fraudulent manner"

 34 5. Seen

    "Your Majesty, your words are too much"


    But you don''t deny it.


    "I just want you to refrain from speaking out against Opal."


    It was Claude who protested Alessandro''s sudden words.


    Only a few of us should know about Hubert''s property at the time, but I guess Alessandro managed to find out.


    Perhaps you don''t know the exact exchange, but there''s nothing you can guess from Hubert''s property situation at the time, Opal''s uncle and colleague legal officer entering and leaving the Duke''s house, and later Opal''s actions from them.


    Opal admired Alessandro''s acuteness of insight because he couldn''t even think that Claude had spoken.


    I''m sure you''re even looking into Omer''s debt, the Duke''s land manager.


    "May I express my opinion on what His Majesty has said now?


    "Come on."


    Even if the current words were true, they should be disproved.


    Opal himself didn''t care what he thought, but he didn''t want to bother Claude.


    "I do not know how His Majesty became acquainted with the property of the Duke of McCloud, but that became mine after due process. So you have no shame on me. It''s just that when the world finds out, it''s a lot of inconvenience, and it''s not purposeful to brag, so everyone was just silent."


    "I see. It''s a boring response, but it must be easy."


    In this word, Opal realized that it had been tried.


    I was smiling, but I regret my bluntness.


    Seeing such an opal, Claude turned his grim eyes to Alessandro.


    "Your Majesty, come on."


    "Don''t be so angry, Claude. Let''s admit it was mean. I just didn''t think your wife would be able to serve if she was just as frightened as this. I''m sorry, Opal."


    "- No, no need to apologize"


    "Look, Claude. Opal will forgive you. So don''t play games with me."


    Previously on Forgiveness, it''s an issue in Opal''s mind.


    Opal changed his mind and made Claude smile that he was okay.


    Then Alessandro continues to have fun.


    "There are still many enemies in this country for you and me. In that regard, Opal wouldn''t have to worry. You got a great woman, Claude."


    "I proposed because I like Opal, not for this country nor for His Majesty. Therefore, your Majesty is not willing to use Opal at all, so please do so with his intention"


    "But Opal seems to intend to?


    Even though Claude ran out of words, Alessandro flatly turned his grin to Opal.


    That''s how they concluded after watching Opal keep smiling.


    "... I''m not going to stop Opal from acting. No, you can''t stop it. I wish Opal were the kind of woman who would honestly hide behind me, because she isn''t. And there''s nothing I can do about it that I like because it''s such an opal. Instead, I might hide behind Opal."


    "Do that and I''ll pull you out."


    Claude, who had included giving up and answering, was also laughing at the end of the day.


    In short, this glimpse was not meant to allow marriage or judge Opal''s character, but to tell Opal to behave as he pleases.


    To be clear, don''t hide. Just come out in public.


    Alessandro''s niece - the story of her marriage to the princess, the oblivion of the previous king, is probably the voice of opposition forces.


    Simply put, the marriage between Claude and the princess, the current king''s right arm, can also strengthen Claude''s ties to the royal family and silence the rebel forces.


    But if a boy is born between them, it could be a new spark again.


    And before that, Claude and his son could stand against the king.


    Even if Claude doesn''t have that will, that suspicion can arise and persevere in Alessandro and around him.


    (Surely the princess can turn twenty-two this year... It could also be used to make other royalty wives, which is a difficult problem...)


    I guess the princess''s marriage was shelved because the country was rough due to the plague and civil unrest.


    And now, I''m in a delicate position.


    Alessandro has two sons, but since he''s only in his early teens, he can''t hit them poorly until they''re firmer themselves, even with a back shield.


    Since Alessandro''s wife, who should have been queen, had died of the earlier plague, I heard that Alessandro himself had many connections.


    I don''t know just from the outside, but this country is still unstable.


    "Now let''s ask Opal directly. A ball will be held the day after tomorrow - will you attend a ball celebrating the opening of a new railway line?


    If you''ve been challenged, take it and stand.


    Alessandro seems to be obsessed with the character of such an opal.


    "- I want to follow Claude. Escorts can''t be anything but Claude."


    "That''s right. What do we do, Claude?


    "If Opal says so, I will attend. I don''t want them to think I ran away."


    "Well, that''s settled. I think I figured out how to handle you."


    "Don''t get too well. I don''t think I made an earlier promise. Now, if you''ll excuse us."


    Claude answered with a sigh of uncertainty several times in a day today, saying hello to his resignation.


    And he gets up at the same time as Alessandro, who seems satisfied, and gives Opal his hand.


    "It was fun, Opal. I look forward to seeing you the day after tomorrow."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty. Now if you''ll excuse me."


    Standing up with a hand to Claude, Opal also said hello to Alessandro and quit the spot.


    Escort straight to Claude and return to the holding room once.


    As always, I felt an interesting glance from around me, but now I could see room from relief.


    After all, I went to the royal castle and met and talked directly to Alessandro, and I also found out a little about the current situation in this country, which I could not read just through the downward examination of books and such.


    As Erik also said, I guess many women were approaching Claude.


    Because that''s not the case with single men in as good a condition as Claude, and most importantly, Claude himself is attractive.


    (Well, that might be a bit dazzling...)


    I don''t think all those women would honestly back off because Claude got married.


    Women as well as men of ambition and hostility should be trying to get closer to Claude.


    For those who seek to exploit Opal will also appear.


    (It''s understandable that His Majesty made me investigate, but it''s not something you can do in the last few months, though...)


    Opal wondered when the hell Alessandro had been eyeing himself.


    If you casually turn your gaze to Claude, your eyes will blink.


    "Tired?


    "No, it''s okay. I was just wondering how long has Your Majesty known me..."


    "Oh, is that about eight years ago?


    "Eight years?


    "I guess that''s about it. I haven''t had much time to talk about Opal since I first met His Majesty. And then, occasionally, it came up on the subject."


    "... don''t ask me about the content."


    "Really?"


    I also feel like knowing, but Opal silenced that I shouldn''t touch this anymore.


    Claude doesn''t seem offended, he''s grinning.


    I''m sure he talked about it as childhood taming, but when Claude sent me an investment and a technician to Mantest land five years ago, Alessandro met with Hubert and looked into it in particular.


    In those days, it was still a bet to send technicians to other countries.


    I even worried if I really deserved Claude, but now Opal was already determined.


    There is no back shield in this country, and children may not want it, but there are connections, wealth and territorial management in the Kingdom of Soci��t��.


    We also got permission from Alessandro, the king, so we can fight as well in the social circles of this country as Opal thinks.


    The rebel forces or not, Claude''s enemies are Opal''s enemies.


    (But we need to be careful not to turn Claude''s friends - against our enemies...)


    Opal, who remembered Erik, sighed and looked up at Claude walking next door.


    Until just a year ago, I never thought such happiness would await me.


    "Opal...... if you can stare at me so much, can you stop because I can''t keep my urge down?


    "Huh?"


    "Or can I kiss you here and now?


    "Bullshit, don''t be silly!


    "I mean it."


    I rush forward to Claude''s words, and I hear a pleasant laugh in Opal''s ear with faster legs.


    Opal glanced lightly at Claude before finally entering Naja''s waiting room.

 35 6. Ball

    "Claude, not now. Be patient."


    "Yes, you''d better be more patient. You''re too spoiled."


    "Claude is not spoiled. Hey...... he''s just sweet"


    "- I knew you should have had your name changed."


    Opal laughed when he deliberately saw Claude holding his head and moaning.


    Claude, the dog who jumped out of the room feeling the signs of Opal, has been seized by his butler, Joseph.


    Without being jumped by the dog claude thanks to Joseph, neither the opal nor the human claude dressed to attend the ball had just gotten anything.


    His youngest son, the caretaker of the dog Claude, arrives in a hurry, but the human Claude takes Opal outside with only brief caution.


    Joseph''s clothes dropping me off were disturbed by hair all over the place, and Opal uttered an apology before boarding the carriage.


    Opal, who returned from the royal castle yesterday, was not doing it over a dog clade because he had been busy.


    Once again, he was asking Claude and Joseph about social relationships and tapping them into his head.


    Even though the men''s factions know it, the women also have different factions.


    Contrary to the glamour of rumors, the social world has a lot of leg pulling under the water, and if you make a mistake, you fall quickly.


    Opal glimpsed Claude''s mother - the Baroness - sitting next to him from Claude sitting across the street.


    Apparently, the Baroness had a glorious social life as Count Roussell''s Lady, but since she was duped by her predecessors for having a rundown marriage with the Baron, her friend''s contact seems to have been cut off.


    These days, they started exchanging letters with their former friends again.


    And even though I haven''t actually seen him in decades, he doesn''t look nervous about the Baroness and stares calmly at the baron sitting across the street.


    (You''re still a good couple, aren''t you? You must have had a lot of trouble......)


    The Earl of Holloway and the neighboring Baroness cannot be described as small and rich, but they have lived carefully without imposing burdens on their inhabitants.


    Besides, Opal just knows, he''s survived two major murders.


    (You''ve always been my ideal couple statue...)


    I know Opal''s deceased mother had affection for her father, but my father never looked after his family.


    Of course I can''t say I didn''t have any love for my father, but it wouldn''t make sense if I didn''t pass it on.


    For Opal, who could not feel any affection or anything from Hubert''s words or deeds, as that proposal was a blue-hearted thunderbolt.


    "Ah..."


    "What''s up, Opal?


    "Huh? Oh, no... it''s nothing"


    Surprised by Opal, who suddenly raised his voice, he was noted not only by Claude but also by the barons, to whom Opal replied with a reddish face.


    The couple went into the world of the two again convinced, but Claude kept his surprise gaze to Opal.


    Still, when Opal grinned, he gave up and moved his gaze out the window.


    I guess it''s time to arrive at the royal castle.


    I didn''t do anything wrong, but Opal had done it from time to time.


    I completely forgot that Hubert had sent me a letter.


    Hi. I feel like my head has been spinning slowly lately.


    (I wonder if this is the kind of thing that goes up...)


    It''s very comforting to have someone to rely on for Opal, who has been working so hard on his own ever since.


    Besides, that''s who I love, so I guess it''s harder not to float.


    That''s why it doesn''t suit Opal''s sexuality to be sweet as it is.


    I want to help Claude.


    "We''ve arrived. Opal, Dad, Mom, you ready?


    "Yeah, it''s okay."


    "It''s been a long time since I''ve been nervous..."


    "Oh, I''m fine."


    When the Opals answered Claude''s inquiry, the carriage stopped and the door opened after the signal came from the outside.


    Claude comes down a little first and gives Opal a hand.


    Then the baron went down, and while the lady went down, Opal felt a lot of gaze, but stretched his spine to grandeur.


    "Shall we?"


    "Yeah, thanks"


    Again with his hands on the arm offered by Claude, Opal proceeded to the venue with a grin.


    It wasn''t long after that.


    They are surrounded, introduced and observed by many people as they enter the venue.


    But Opal was also observing the people around him.


    You should be thorough about not letting yourself out tonight and figuring out your relationships in the social community in this country.


    Of course not overnight, but it''s a great opportunity to know Claude''s exact standing and Opal''s placement.


    For that reason, Opal left most of the conversation to Claude, just smiling silently.


    And as I pretend to be listening, I listen to conversations that are exchanged a little further away.


    "I wondered how many beautiful women would show up, but it''s no big deal."


    "But look, take a look. You''re all stretched out under your noses, aren''t you?


    "We don''t know, do we have a secret or something?"


    "Then I''d love to, Professor. That''s enough to drop the Marquis Roussel."


    "And the Duke of McCloud of the Kingdom of Socieux."


    "Oh, the Duke dumped you, didn''t he?


    "But I heard you received quite an asset - a valuable piece of land - as a compensation. Could it have been a man-test?


    "Yes, yes! Instead of a tree with money, it''s a land with money. And now she''s one of the best bourgeoisie women in the world."


    "As much as I envy you. Then I guess you can close your eyes to other flaws."


    Opal was just as surprised by this content.


    It is not known that the investment in man-testing was made in Opal''s own property.


    Perhaps at the time of the divorce, such rumors spread because of the transfer of property from Hubert as a price for the Duke''s territory.


    It is not normal for a woman to invest herself.


    Women''s independence was not likely to be accepted in this country either, and Opal swallowed a sigh.


    That''s when the dull laugh that lasted for a little while subsided and I heard one woman''s pleasant voice.


    "Well, it''s like the Marquis Roussel is after the money."


    "You might not be wrong, though, right? In the first place, the Marquis was the third son of the Baron family of the Kingdom of Soci��t��. That multiplied the turmoil in this country and successfully entered His Majesty''s place, didn''t it? Next time, the Duke will duke you..."


    When the topic moved from Opal to Claude and Opal was irritated, the king was told of his admission.


    Everyone breaks their knees, bows their heads and welcomes King Alessandro.


    Then Alessandro said words celebrating the opening of a new railway and the engagement of the Marquis Roussel, and the opening of the ball was declared.


    At the beginning, Alessandro starts dancing with a young woman - perhaps a princess, her niece - on the floor, followed by Opal and Claude along the way.


    Opal was led by Claude to dance for the first time in a long time.


    Besides, this is my first time dancing in a formal setting with Claude.


    "Sounds like a lot of fun, huh?


    "Yeah, very"


    "Looks like you were angry about something earlier?


    "You were aware?


    "Well, sort of. Because Opal gets a deeper smile when he gets angry. So, what were you angry about?


    "... rumors about the women. Words to Claude are terrible."


    "Oh, that or. I wish I didn''t mind."


    "It may be so..."


    Claude laughed and shook his head small as Opal replied wondering what it meant to smile deeper.


    Hopefully even being angry like Claude can make me laugh and flow, but I already know I can''t do it to Opal.


    Claude laughed again when he saw Opal squeaking in dissatisfaction.


    If you become Claude, who knows Opal''s character well, you can safely keep your future.


    So I could calmly drop Claude off when he left the side to dance a second song with Her Royal Highness.


    And now Opal was smiling, even as she was subtly separated from the Baroness and surrounded by the ladies.

 36 7. Ball

    "If you wonder what kind of woman she is, the demonic woman of the Soci��t�� kingdom, clearly, she''s out of her mind."


    "It must have been a witch''s mistake. You can use magic or something to confuse your lords."


    That''s what the women who surrounded Opal say and laugh mean.


    Apart from hurting, however, Opal was having fun with the first call he heard.


    I looked around and there is one Marquis, the Countess and the Lady, the other Countess and the Viscount just to find out Opal.


    Opal smiled reluctantly, not disputing for the first time, wondering that the women, who should know little about Opal, whether it was in the interest of numbers or in the interest of the land, could come out so strongly.


    A man''s voice interrupts there.


    "I''m sorry I''m talking to you, but I wanted you to dance with Miss Holloway, and I came to sign up"


    "Well! Baron Prado...... did you know this guy?


    "Yes. The Marquis of Roussel introduced me the other day. Isn''t that right?


    "- Yeah."


    "So, can you dance?


    "Happy. - Now, ladies and gentlemen, excuse me."


    Opal took the hand offered by Erik and greeted the ladies gently and proceeded to the floor.


    The women are whispering something with a hiccup.


    Apparently they say he just dropped Baron Prado, etc.


    After all, all social circles are the same.


    Tired of bad talk and rushing, Opal turned his consciousness to the man in front of him.


    "You''re a lot quieter, aren''t you?


    "Yes?"


    "I can''t believe you said that and didn''t even argue with me"


    "... I don''t even know the power relationship yet, so I can''t say anything bad"


    "I see. Do you change your attitude when you see the power of your opponent"


    I thought you helped me, but he didn''t.


    Opal almost laughed unexpectedly at Erik''s unique interpretation and somehow endured it.


    For that reason, Erik seems to have mistaken the leaning opal, and calls it even more.


    "It''s no use pretending to be hurt that way and trying to draw sympathy. I know your nature. And so do the others. I''m not even going to ask you out for a dance. And yet I can''t believe that only Claude is deceived. Even though he''s usually the owner of a surprisingly clear brain."


    Opal is not invited to the dance by another man because Claude was saying no.


    And since Claude left, he was immediately surrounded by women, so there was only Erik, a man who would come and invite him until he had overcome that obstacle.


    Erik hears bad rumors about Opal first, and then he only sees it the way he wants to.


    Opal casually glimpsed Alessandro while thinking he really looked just like old Hubert.


    As soon as I get there, my eyes start to look at each other.


    Alessandro sits and looks at the venue without dancing with anyone but the princess, but as usual, no one cares.


    It just made me think that the grin on that face made me enjoy all sorts of things.


    Especially now. They''re enjoying the Opal situation.


    (I knew you were a mean person. It''s like everyone is dancing on His Majesty''s board......)


    The status quo as it was analogous was strange, and as soon as I searched for Claude to distract him, I found him.


    When Claude meets her eyes, she makes her dance exaggerated as if she had read Opal''s thoughts.


    "- Claude looks like a lot of fun. It''s better than when I danced with you earlier."


    "Really?


    "Maybe you don''t want to admit..."


    "It was such a good time. Thank you."


    Just after the song, Opal greeted Erik by blocking his words.


    Erik seems to have noticed this dislike, making his face red.


    He remembered it was a pre-dance tech issue, such as making his partner feel uncomfortable.


    "I''ll get you a drink, if you like, but what would you like?


    "Then why don''t you show us where we can eat lightly? Some of them may be rare, so I want to make my own choices."


    "... then, go ahead"


    "Thanks"


    He asked Claude to stay away for a while, so he wouldn''t be back for the time being.


    Seeing how that went, Erik also seemed to want to treat Opal as a gentleman for once.


    He asked me for a drink, although it seemed a little great, so Opal decided to head to a separate room where snacks and such were prepared together.


    Walk with your hands on the offered arm and grab everyone''s attention.


    "Am I growing a horn or something?


    "What?


    "Because no one is going to try to talk to me. Or do they hate the baron or something?


    If you''re a talkative person like Opal, it''s usually something a lot of people come to for you to be introduced to, but unlike earlier, everyone was just looking away.


    That''s why I made a joke, but it didn''t seem to get through to Eric.


    Erik frowned in surprise but didn''t say anything and arrived in the room of interest.


    So Opal ordered light alcohol and several types of canap��s.


    The meal was different in the way it was served, but not unlike that of the Kingdom of Soci��t��.


    "You eat that much?


    "... so much?


    Opal looked down at his plate following Erik''s gaze as he sat in the chair.


    A table and chairs are provided in the room so that you can sit down and eat.


    But because of the fact that the time was still too early, there were only a few suppliers, and there were just new men coming in alone.


    And only a few canap��s on the plate.


    "- Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach can make you more drunk."


    "It''s usually something to eat before you attend the ball, isn''t it? Anyway, dinner party."


    "Normal?"


    "Oh. So there are no women here but you. You can''t manage yourself around there, so you''ve been drunk and exposed to ugliness?


    "... drunk and ugly? For example, what is it?


    Opal suppressed the anger he had been engulfing and gracefully carried the canape into his mouth to await Erik''s answer.


    Eight years ago, I was never more angry when Hubert, who became my husband, called me "mundane."


    Opal, who did not deny the rumors at the time, also had no objection, and above all Hubert was her husband, so she had the right to just blame him. - I didn''t even try to talk to Hubert.


    Opal then disappeared from the social world and remained quiet, even if he was ever out in public during man-test land development.


    Says you can''t easily regain the credibility you''ve lost, but it''s not that problem now.


    I wonder why I just took a few canap��s and have to be told so far.


    Out of that anger, Opal, as Claude put it, was grinning deeper.


    "It''s... it''s because I was drunk that I felt safe with a man..."


    "What are you comfortable with?


    "In the first place, don''t you find it embarrassing, such as making me say this!?


    "No, not at all. I don''t know what the Baron is trying to say, so I''m asking you a question. I''ve never been drunk with alcohol before. And only once is it like being called a scandal in the world. Only once when a man looking to bring money attacked me and called for help out loud for foolishly going out into the garden alone on the way to the night club. I didn''t know what that would turn out to be for a sixteen-year-old who had just debuted to the social world. But even if I knew, I would have resisted."


    "But rumor has it..."


    "Yes, it''s all rumors. No one has actually seen the scandal since, but only the rumors have left me walking alone. I didn''t want to lose just one scandal. Just that. So it was always grand. I guess that''s what got us all distracted. Because pu (...) tong (...) is (...), women are supposed to be sheltered by men and live without claiming their rights. I''m sure women should refrain from eating a few canap��s in the ballroom, too. Because that''s the pu (...) tong (...)"


    "No, but..."


    When Opal said angrily but pale, Erik clogged his words and retreated from Opal one step and two.


    The look is full of amazement.


    Still seems to have regained his mind somehow.


    I glanced at Opal and opened my mouth again.


    "Then why did the Duke of McCloud leave you?


    "Come on, why not?


    "Of course, because you don''t even play and fall in love and produce a heir. Besides, we have to share even property -!?"


    It was too late when you returned it to me.


    Opal was showering Erik with the contents of the glass he had.


    But it''s not something I particularly regret when I calm down - I rather thought I should praise myself.


    And when he put the glass down slowly, Opal smiled.

 37 8. Ball

    "Hey, what..."


    "I''ve seen so many stupid men before, but you''re an irredeemable fool"


    When he said so to Erik, Opal stood up to get out of the room.


    I get my arm around me as soon as I can.


    "What a woman!


    "What a man."


    Apparently he forgot me in anger. Erik stared at Opal.


    But when Opal drops his gaze on his arm and repeats the same words, Erik hurries to release his arm.


    They still had that much reason left.


    "What are you gonna do with these wet clothes?


    "Oh, don''t worry, if you say poo (...) women would have about a handkerchief, so what if I borrowed it? Unfortunately, I don''t have a handkerchief to lend to people like you."


    "Is this the kind of thing you can get out in front of everyone!


    "Is it? The woman you said Pu (...) Tong (...) - a chaste woman who feels at risk but doesn''t make a scene, doesn''t eat hungry or can''t carry the burden of being handed down all by herself, accepts silently even if she is separated and thrown out without a single sentence, would take a big look at some conditions, wouldn''t you? No, you can''t worry about the Baron, you can''t have an opinion."


    "What a fool..."


    Speaking, Erik shut his mouth.


    Then blush.


    I guess I finally understood that every word of Opal was my thrown word.


    "That''s different -"


    "Erik, don''t say anything more. She''s right, it''s like exposing stupidity."


    It was Opal''s unknown man who blocked Erik from trying to excuse himself.


    But we soon found out who it was.


    "Brother, why are you doing that..."


    "Because you and she are different."


    "That''s not true."


    "Shut up, Eric. - Ho (...) b (...) w (...) e (...) i (...) miss (...), my brother was very rude"


    "... I think it''s you who''s rude. Viscount Amadi?"


    I called my name to ask because it hasn''t been introduced yet.


    Then the man, supposedly Viscount Amadi, grinned and bowed back.


    "You''re absolutely right. My name is Tulli Bapot, Viscount Amadi. I beg your pardon, my brothers."


    "... it''s Opal Holloway. But I''m not saying this because I wasn''t introduced. Against the words of the Viscount."


    "Mine?


    Listening to Opal''s remarks, Tulli''s expression, which was gloomy, turns into something surprising.


    But Opal nodded with a smile.


    What do you mean, "what did you say"? What if I was inferior to your brother? Left behind despite your brother saying rude things? Or did you come in to help? Either way, that''s a shitty behavior. While your brother was blaming me, he turned his back and swallowed alcohol. Whatever my personality is, I''m pretty sure neither of us has an attitude toward women.


    Opal was aware that Tulli had entered the room immediately about his seat.


    But Erik was apparently driven by anger and couldn''t afford to look around.


    And it seems Erik is still angry about Opal''s attitude toward Terri again.


    Though I opened my mouth to say something, Teuri controls me by hand.


    "I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to offend you, but I think I made you feel uncomfortable."


    Opal''s heart cooled off when he heard Tuli''s words, which were not even an apology.


    Contrary to that heart, Opal''s grin deepens again.


    "No offense? In those words, in your actions, have you ever thought about how much they hurt? No offense rumors, no offense, no offense, you think you''ll be forgiven for everything if you don''t? ''I didn''t mean to offend you'' doesn''t make words any absolution marks. But if you can''t take responsibility just because you didn''t mean anything by what you said or did, why don''t you return your status and honor? Don''t just apologize to him for being sorry."


    I was angry at Erik''s stupidity and Opal couldn''t stand Theuri''s arrogance.


    Nearly a decade ago, Opal was hurt many times when he was made the object of malevolent play and betting by men called gentlemen.


    The price of just one scandal was huge.


    And the wounds still follow me then.


    Erik and Tulli had never been told anything like this before, and even the rare beast looked at Opal with the kind of eyes he saw.


    Tulli, raised as a heir to the Marquis, and his brother, Erik, must have been taught whether he was ruler or not.


    Perhaps in the plague and the battle for the throne eight years ago, that arrogance turned into strength, powerful enough to be given the title regardless of the house.


    That may have made us both confident, but the arrogance characteristic of the nobility will stand in the way in the time to come.


    I don''t want to break Claude''s friendship with Tulli or Erik if possible, but I don''t even want to bend my beliefs.


    Opal slowly turned off his grin from his face and told him chilly.


    "Please continue your friendship with Claude. But don''t show up before me as much as you can. I will avoid you as much as I can."


    When Opal looked back to the exit, Claude was just about to come in.


    But did you hear the voice, and when you quickly stand next to Opal, you turn a hard eye to Erik and Tulli.


    "I support Opal. So I''m sorry to invite you, but don''t come to the wedding."


    Claude, clearly proclaimed, turned back his heels urging an appalling opal before Erik and Tulli said anything.


    Opal obeys honestly without even saying hello to both of them.


    "... sorry"


    "The bad thing about Opal is that you try to take responsibility even if you don''t have to, right? So I even apologize for what I don''t have to apologize for."


    "Claude......"


    Claude looks tired somewhere to say sighing.


    I don''t think my claim earlier was wrong, but I thought there might have been a different way - Opal regretted selling a fight to Claude''s side.


    "You''ve set up an unwanted wave with your friends.... I''m sorry, Claude"


    "So it''s not about apologizing, is it? If a friendship is broken by someone joining us, that''s all we have to do. They can work. That''s why it''s no excuse for insensitivity. If we don''t both abandon the arrogant idea of being imprisoned by our identities, we won''t be able to keep up with the changes of the times ahead."


    "But..."


    "You don''t have to worry, even they''re not stupid. I realize what the problem is. I''m saying great things, but I have to change myself. Some things we have been able to accomplish over the past few years because we have been uninhibited, but I think we have lost sight of ourselves at some point. If we don''t wind up in this closed society, we''re gonna rot and collapse. Or they''ll break it from the outside."


    "... So I just have to drill a hole?


    "No, Opal just has to do whatever he wants. Your majesty would have wanted that, too, wouldn''t he?


    Of course, Claude was aware of Alessandro''s thoughts at the sight yesterday.


    Regretting doesn''t suit Opal''s sexuality.


    If we had time like that, we should take advantage of our failures to connect next.


    Opal nodded forcefully, rethinking so.


    "You can count on me for that."


    So we panicked when we realized where we were headed now.


    "Claude, aren''t you going back to the venue?


    "Oh, I''ve done my duty already, fine."


    But I didn''t even say hello to His Majesty.


    "It''s okay. Because Your Majesty understands."


    "What about your parents?


    "Mom said she fulfilled her brother-in-law, and she''s back in the carriage with her father."


    "Well, I hope I haven''t kept you waiting too long..."


    "You don''t have to worry. They''re together, so they might rather not interrupt me."


    Claude looked deliberately fed up, and Opal laughed.


    And when we arrived at the carriage, the barons were still already waiting on board.


    "Oh, I''m glad you took it slower"


    In the Baroness''s words, Claude said, "You see?," Opal glanced, chewing his lips and laughing.


    I can be part of this warm family soon.


    Opal shook off his unpleasant mood and decided to wait for the wedding he had refrained from the day after tomorrow.

 38 Outside: Picnic

    "Why didn''t you come?


    "... your brother told you not to come because women are very handy."


    Opal was also happy when Claude, my brother''s friend, invited me to a picnic.


    But on the same day, he told me not to follow him, and Opal, completely obstinate, hid in his favorite place.


    Opal was more angry because she was a woman than because she was only five.


    There, Claude, apparently back from the picnic, came looking for me, but Opal never showed up when he was called out.


    Then I hear Claude''s unfortunate voice.


    "I''m glad you didn''t mind. I asked her out because I knew Opal would be okay."


    "... because it''s me?


    "Yes, Opal is very brave."


    "Brave..."


    This word shook my mind quite a bit.


    But the words that followed make Opal''s heart stubborn.


    "So don''t be stubborn. Come down, Opal."


    "No. There''s nothing to be obstinate about!


    "Right..."


    Claude replied sighing if Opal screamed from the top of a tree with a wide spread of branches, his favorite place.


    Silence fell for a while, but what I eventually heard was footsteps.


    As soon as Opal looked down from between the branches, he could see Claude leaving.


    I shouldn''t have strained my mind.


    It''s too late to regret it.


    Claude picked me up, but Opal refused and was stunned.


    Float down from the tree now to chase Claude, and immediately return to his original position.


    What if they refuse to go after you?


    Opal shuddered small just now realizing how heartless what he had done.


    The time after that was harder and sadder than before.


    I am angry with myself for being stubborn and unable to be honest, and my head is occupied by the fear that Claude will reject me as I am.


    But there is one idea that gradually gets bigger in a confusing head.


    "I knew I had to apologize."


    It was the opal that was bad, so even if they hate me as I am, I only have to apologize.


    I gathered the courage to solidify my resolve, and I heard footsteps again as Opal sat down to get down from the tree.


    Now I''m getting closer and closer to this one.


    Looking down, I could see Claude''s head, and while Opal was rounding his eyes, Claude had cleverly climbed the tree.


    "Opal, hold it for a second"


    "... yeah"


    Claude offered him the basket he was raising on his arm, and Opal received it, wondering.


    Apparently, he was in the way to sit on a branch that was in Claude''s fixed position.


    Opal shifted his gaze from Claude and looked inside the basket to his surprise.


    "Claude, this..."


    "Oh, I asked Marcia"


    "... are you going to the picnic again?


    "This is the picnic, isn''t it?


    Claude, sitting almost next to him from the branch position relationship, reaches for the basket.


    And out of the basket, Marcia, the housekeeper, took out the thinly sliced bread and cheese she had prepared in a hurry.


    The basket also still contains bottles of fruit water stuffed with fruit and cork.


    "Look, let''s eat. What do you mean, lunch''s still here?


    "... yeah"


    Opal replied weakly as he received the bread from Claude.


    I almost cried by accident, but I don''t want to ruin my picnic with tears.


    From that feeling, Opal smiled with the utmost laughter.


    "Thank you, Claude"


    "You''re welcome. Well, it''s a little unbalanced and hard to eat, but Opal would be fine, wouldn''t he?


    "Of course!"


    To thank him, Claude answers with a laugh.


    The smile gave me courage.


    "Claude, I''m sorry about earlier"


    "Yeah, fine."


    "Really?"


    "Oh."


    "... how come Claude always forgives me so easily? Aren''t you angry or something?


    Always, Claude forgives me as soon as he apologizes for what Opal did wrong.


    That was strange for Opal.


    "That''s because Opal will always apologize. Sometimes you say you did something wrong. So I''m not angry either."


    "... Claude is unusual."


    "Really?


    Claude laughs joyfully as Opal squeaks.


    Opal, glad to see Claude''s gentle smile, stopped thinking and concentrated on his meal.

 39 9. Preparation

    The day after the ball.


    Opal had joined Claude''s family after lunch in a separate residence at the Marquis Roussel family on the outskirts of Wang Du.


    Tomorrow''s wedding will take place in the chapel of this village, so we''re spending the night in this mansion.


    And when the reception was over, the family and invitees were going to pull up to the King''s Capital, and Claude and I were going to spend only three honeymoons in this mansion.


    However, Claude is still in the main residence of the King''s Capital.


    And now Opal, who was led to her mistress''s room, seemed like a bride, softly restless.


    In my last marriage, Hubert, my husband, used the next room only overnight at the consulate in the Duke''s Lands.


    But this time - Claude, naturally, uses the next room.


    Of course I don''t hate that.


    (What to do...... No matter how much Claude, you don''t think I''ve been married for seven years and I''ve never been on the floor yet...)


    Having just seen Claude''s luggage carried into the next room, Opal began to wander around the room where the elegant conditioning was located.


    If you''re even twenty-eight years old, you know exactly what it''s like between a couple.


    It makes me shush when I say I''m not ashamed, but I thought Claude would be fine.


    Just tell Claude this fact or not.


    I''m known to be a novice in love, but I don''t know how much I understand that either.


    (But if there was any procedure, if it were to embarrass Claude... I knew I should have told you in advance)


    Opal, who reasonably thought about it and concluded, now hit the question of when it should be communicated.


    It won''t be what I''ll tell you in the letter.


    That''s why it''s late at night to come back from now on when you head to the Mansion of the King''s Capital.


    (... well, if you just tell him, I''ll soothe him soon, and tomorrow will be fine, right? Something that has time before the ceremony ends and the reception begins)


    Opal was relieved to give a satisfactory answer and headed to the library desk.


    I have some paperwork to process, and I''ve brought it this far.


    But the first thing I noticed when I opened the bag with the kind in it was a letter from Hubert.


    After reading it once, I had somehow put it behind me, but I would have to get my hands on it already.


    When I received it in the first place, I should have sent it back the way I had always wanted it to go through the agent.


    (After all, you were floating...)


    Opal cut the seal with a paper knife, sighing at himself.


    And take out the contents, and look through.


    "... I don''t know what that means."


    One shrugged Opal put the letter on his desk and stared.


    Write a reply sooner or I should still have sent it back, but I regret not doing so.


    My father, the Earl, should have known that I was out of touch with Hubert in the first place, but I wonder why I have enclosed the letter, and I reconsider.


    My father doesn''t care, he''s the one who left behind.


    However, I doubt my father knew about this.


    (Your father arrived in this country...)


    He will not attend the ceremony as the father of the bride, but he will stay in the king''s capital tonight and will come to Opal tomorrow.


    And as soon as the ceremony was over, he seemed to plan to return to the country, keeping him busy as ever.


    By the way, Opal''s brother doesn''t attend as well as last time.


    Claude told me about it.


    (I can''t believe your brother and Claude have been in touch for so long... that''s sloppy, isn''t it)


    On several occasions now Opal has written to his brother and he has not replied.


    Yet instead of exchanging letters with Claude, he helped supply supplies during the civil unrest in the Kingdom of Tysey.


    Besides, he said the university had dropped out at some point, and now he''s in some country.


    My father naturally should have known, and I felt like one Opal was being beaten up about my brother.


    (But, well, if you''re well, you can''t hope for anything more.)


    When I was a kid, I didn''t like a mean brother.


    I can''t say I''m still close, I haven''t even looked at each other since my brother got into college, but I still have love as a family, I worry, and I get angry.


    (Really, guys are on their own!)


    Opal wrote a few abusive letters to hit eight.


    I will also clean up the paperwork with that anger.


    Then it was much more than I expected, and Opal was in a neat mood to end it all.


    - The next morning.


    My father, who had just arrived, came to Opal after finishing his reign.


    My father''s outfit, which he traveled by carriage from Wang Du, is not disturbed at all.


    "Opal, it''s as beautiful as it was eight years ago."


    Opal frowned for a moment at his father''s words as he was called to board a carriage bound for the chapel.


    But I immediately smile and answer.


    "... thank you, Father"


    Still, in Opal''s heart, he was frustrated that he didn''t have to be sarcastic like that on a day like this.


    So, uh, I think my father''s serious.


    My father thought it was for Opal that he decided to marry Hubert.


    "... did your father love your mother?


    "What, suddenly?


    Count Holloway, father to Opal''s question, frowned in surprise.


    I used to be scared of this look, and it was an opal I was pulling right off, but now I can only fight it a little bit.


    With pity for just a little bit, Opal continued with courage.


    "Because your mother always thought of your father until he died... Of course you cared about me and your brother, and you loved me a lot. But after all, I thought you wanted your father to be more with you..."


    - I made a promise.


    "Yes?"


    "When I met your mother, although I inherited the title, I also inherited my father''s debt and couldn''t turn my neck. So I didn''t want them to think it was for my mother''s money, and I kept her away."


    "Still... you were proposed in the end"


    "No, I was proposed"


    "To your mother?


    "Oh. They told me not to run. It''s no shame you don''t have money. I have money, so I was wondering if that''s okay."


    "So you built your current asset based on your mother''s money?


    Opal was quite surprised by the unexpected content.


    Still encourage them to continue while not putting them on the table.


    "Oh, yeah. I promised you I''d multiply your mother''s money. But at the beginning of the marriage, it made me struggle a lot. Besides, your mother wasn''t very tough at first, so she made it easier to live in the airy countryside than in the king''s capital."


    "... I didn''t know"


    "I''ve never told anyone."


    The Earl, who replied to Opal, who shrugged and shrugged, has no heart or chest.


    Such a distraction from his father, Opal looked at the long idle landscape visible through the window of the car.


    I knew my mother was lonely, and Opal was lonely.


    But my mother must have liked it, including my father''s clumsiness.


    (Clumsy or too rare...)


    Opal doesn''t wait quietly in the country, even if he''s weak, and he gets in to spend time with his loved ones.


    Fight to break the situation.


    So Opal realized again.


    "Forced to marry me and the Duke of McCloud, did you do the breaking aid that way because you overlapped with yourself?


    "... Your stubbornness was in the calculations, but not McCloud''s arrogance"


    "So this result wasn''t calculated either?


    "Claude, I have no regrets that I did not give you permission to propose your first marriage. I regretted that I should have forgiven you with regard to the second time. But now I''m glad I did."


    "Right..."


    I have a lot of grievances, but I found out that you love Opal as a father.


    But my father would not recognize the sentiment of love.


    He is my father, including that, and Opal loves my father.


    (Just a little, I know how your mother feels...)


    Opal shifted his gaze from his father to outside the window and swallowed a sigh.

 40 10. Weddings

    The wedding with Hubert was very cold.


    At the end of the lightly proceeded ceremony, few participants uttered words of blessing and there was no reception.


    That is now blessed not only by the participants, but also by the villagers who have gathered around the chapel.


    Opal was delighted to hear so many people say pure congratulations.


    "Claude, what shall we do..."


    "Are you all right? What happened? What happened?


    "Wow... you might think it''s stale..."


    "Yeah, what?


    "I''m so happy, I''m scared."


    I never thought I''d say these words.


    Naturally I thought they would laugh, but when Claude nodded with a serious look, he lay his hands on Opal''s hand that accompanied his arm.


    "I''m scared, too. I thought this might be a dream. I couldn''t sleep last night either."


    "Claude......"


    When he heard Claude''s weak voice, which always seemed confident, Opal had a bitter chest.


    I''m just thrilled to say that we''re officially married with a wedding, as if we''re having one thought.


    At the same time, Opal''s face turned bright red, recalling what he had to talk about.


    "Well, I have to tell you..."


    "Claude! Don''t fall in love with the bride forever, come quick!


    Opal''s words, which I was about to say, were blocked by Claude''s eldest brother''s chilling.


    As soon as they left the chapel, they stopped. I guess the two looked staring at each other.


    We were actually staring at each other, but Opal laughed as he turned to everyone in the blindfold.


    It is somewhat embarrassing because it has been known to the barons since they were little.


    He noticed something he was about to say, Claude, but he also understood Opal''s mood, and he stared at his brother deliberately without pursuing him.


    "Not as good as when you were my brother, right? I can''t beat you with feelings, though."


    That being said, Claude turns a pranky grin on her brother-in-law and returns her gaze to Opal.


    Opal also pushed the embarrassment back and smiled.


    Opal exhaled much louder as he boarded the carriage wrapped in all his blessings and smiles.


    Next there''s a reception at the mansion.


    "Tired?


    "No, I''m fine. But it''s kind of full of breasts and it hurts."


    When Opal answered by holding down his chest, Claude smiled calmly without saying anything.


    This is where Claude is. Opal is weak.


    It reassures me even if I don''t have words.


    "Claude''s not good enough."


    "What?


    "I think you know everything about me."


    "Why not?"


    "But I know more about Claude than I do. For example��"


    "For example?"


    Trying to say it all at once, Opal hesitated.


    After all, I may not even be thinking about Claude, such as being married for seven years and there was nothing there.


    Still, Claude would understand.


    "Wow, I haven''t even... I mean, I''ve never been through that before"


    "Experience, what?


    "Oh... that''s what I''m talking about!


    I got a tight tone out of embarrassment.


    When this happens, a mean opal can''t be honest with his face.


    Claude stares at such an opal in wonder.


    "That sort of thing...?


    "Huh, about the couple."


    I couldn''t stand Claude''s gaze as she whined and thought, Opal slowly slipped away from his face and looked out the window.


    Nevertheless, there is no view at all and all nerves are oriented towards Claude.


    "... Huh? No, but you''ve been married for seven years, haven''t you?


    "Because I lived separately."


    "I made it..."


    Opal was getting anxious about Claude''s reaction, even as he answered with vigour.


    I didn''t think it was a big deal, but I still lose momentum wondering if it''s a problem.


    "Hit me, is that so weird? I knew there was something wrong? You mean not me?


    "You can''t be no good! I''m the problem."


    Claude vehemently denied it when Opal inquired completely out of energy.


    And say something, shut your mouth.


    "Claude?


    "- Nothing."


    Claude doesn''t give me a proper answer, even though I revealed myself in a full mood to be opal.


    Opal was upset about it and forgot his embarrassment.


    "Claude, talk to me properly"


    "It''s no big deal, don''t worry about it"


    "I care. more and more concerned."


    "Well, I''ll talk to you later"


    "Yeah? When''s the next time? Until then, I can''t stand it."


    "I''m the one who can''t stand it! Why are you telling me this now in the first place!


    "That''s not because I didn''t know when to say it! Why are you angry!? I knew you couldn''t!?


    "So no! Opal isn''t bad! I just..."


    "What''s up? Are we in a fight already?


    Both Opal and Claude get obsessed with the story. Not really, I didn''t realize the carriage was stopping.


    Besides, it looks like Opal''s father opened the door on his own because he didn''t quite get off.


    A little while later, he may have been called, but Opal stared at his father angrily.


    "Father, don''t open it on your own"


    "Opal, if you don''t do something about the strength of your mind, you''re gonna get your love done."


    "That''s one of the attractions of Opal."


    Claude gently smiled and followed Opal, who was increasingly angry with his father''s words.


    Then Opal couldn''t say anything more, and the Count shrugged his shoulders off the spot as he shrugged.


    "Oh no. You''ve kept everyone waiting."


    Seeing the servants lined up in front of the mansion, Claude groans with sorrow.


    Now after receiving the blessings of the servants, the Opals must welcome the invitees to the reception.


    My father is coming back faster than everyone else, probably because he''s going to get out on the way.


    Maybe that was my father''s advice.


    (You''re not clumsy or anything...)


    Opal stared at his departing father''s back as he stepped out of the carriage with Claude''s hand.


    I hold such Opal''s hand strongly, and Claude leans softly against me.


    "I like all of Opal."


    "Wow, I''m in trouble. That sort of thing in Claude...... where you say anything"


    "Sorry."


    "... lying"


    "Yeah?"


    Claude followed Opal''s father, but he said something embarrassing and tough and negative.


    And yet Claude apologizes instead of being angry.


    I didn''t like myself for not being honest, Opal held Claude''s hand back hard and braved himself to reveal the truth.


    "I''m in trouble... but I really like it more than that. I love Claude."


    "... thanks, Opal. I''m so glad. But I thought I''d do it now."


    "Congratulations on your marriage!


    Claude laughed a little lightly but said something, blocked by the blessing words of the butler who represented the servant.


    Not long after that, the two of us were supposed to have time to take our time and celebrate the evening.

 41 11. Newlyweds

    Some time after the servants started moving.


    Waking up, as usual, Opal felt indescribably uncomfortable.


    And I manage to contain it by almost screaming unexpectedly at the sight I saw before my head woke up completely.


    Opal, surprised by Claude''s sleeping face just around the corner, was then bored with shame.


    Fortunately, Claude has no sign of waking up.


    (Surprised......)


    Hold the heart that hits hard enough that it''s about to pop out, lurk your breath and stare at Claude''s face.


    We''ve known each other for a long time, but I''ve never observed it so close.


    (... oh? I have a nasty scratch on my cheek, but since when?


    Opal frowned at the marks like he was hurt by a sharp blade.


    If you were injured until you were a student, Opal would know.


    So I realized if this wound was caused during the civil unrest.


    Claude said it wasn''t a big deal, but of course he didn''t believe it.


    Even if he still couldn''t listen now, Opal reached for the wound and stopped it, hoping to let him hear it soon.


    I want you to take it slower because you''re relaxing and sleeping.


    Opal, who thought so, stared at Claude''s sleeping face for a while and bit off his happiness before gently exiting the bed.


    "- Opal"


    Opal, who was setting up his morning schedule and glancing over the paperwork over a cup of tea, was called upon to turn around.


    Claude peeks into his face from the door on the side of the bedroom.


    Opal stood up in a hurry, smiling to delude the embarrassment.


    "Morning, Claude."


    "... good morning"


    I greeted him in the morning, but Claude wasn''t much.


    Opal hid his anxiety that something would have failed and decided to act like his wife.


    "Do you carry breakfast to your room? Or in the breakfast room?


    "... in the breakfast room"


    Claude answered reluctantly, closing the door, but Opal quickly followed.


    If there was a problem, I want you to tell me. I wanted to fix it as hard as I could.


    "Claude."


    "Opal, what''s up?


    "What do you mean..."


    When Opal spoke, Claude, who was about to return to his chamber, stopped on his feet and smiled the same as usual.


    Opal''s feelings shrivel as soon as possible.


    Maybe Claude looked grumpy because he was a little upset.


    But I didn''t want there to be any misunderstandings or patience like this when I should believe in my instincts.


    "If I... had made any mistakes, I''d like you to tell me."


    "Failure? Opal?


    "Yeah. Um... about last night or something... was I wrong as a bride?


    "As a bride..."


    Claude, who repeatedly swallowed Opal''s words, set aside a beat and strained.


    "No way! No, no. Opal is nothing wrong! It''s my problem!


    "Claude''s?


    "I don''t like morning."


    "Really?


    I was surprised by the fact that I first found out about it in a long relationship, but since the weak in the morning are many to the aristocracy, Opal did not think that was the problem.


    Either that or Opal is too soon.


    For this reason Opal waited for further clarification of Claude.


    But it won''t last.


    "Uh... I don''t know what the problem is with that"


    "Uh, yeah. So it''s my problem... It''s a shame Opal slept next door because of it, or it''s not cool..."


    "Claude''s always cool, huh? Still very much."


    "... thanks. Then I''ll get dressed to be cooler."


    "Yeah, I''ll be waiting in the breakfast room."


    Opal, smiling off Claude and returning to his living room, crouched onto the spot.


    And exhale deeply, holding down the occasional chest.


    (nervous...... It was normal, wasn''t it? There''s nothing wrong with that, is there?


    Though I was relieved to know I didn''t fail, Claude''s words almost made my face burn by accident.


    I managed to disguise myself as calm, but my face is hot.


    Opal stood up with one hand swooping his face, ringing the bell and then standing in front of the mirror to lighten his familiarity.


    "Ma''am, how are you?


    "- I''ll have dinner in the breakfast room with my husband, so could you tell him to prepare it for me?


    "Yes, sir."


    The maid who showed up according to Bell called me "Ma''am" to keep me from feeling tickled, and I got a slightly tighter tone because I hid the lights calling me "sir" about Claude again.


    Turning a smile to make up for it, the maid lowers in relief.


    It''s only been two days in this mansion, so the servants are watching over the new mistress.


    As an employer, I have to wear it, but I want to have a good relationship with my servants.


    Never again, I wanted to avoid things like that at the Duke McCloud residence.


    (Speaking of which, we also need to do something about the Duke of McCloud...)


    Opal, who was on his way to the breakfast room, sighed when he remembered the letter.


    You can also ignore Hubert, but then you''ll be long gone with the mystery unsolved.


    But I was going to consult Claude before deciding whether or not to fulfill Hubert''s wishes.


    For this reason, on Claude, who arrived at his breakfast seat, Opal cut out anticipating the timing.


    "- McCloud''s coming to see you?


    "Really? I wish I had said no sooner or sent it back without opening the letter, but I was accidental and... Probably on a boat by now. But I also have a choice not to see you..."


    Claude frowned in surprise when Hubert told him that he was going to come and see him.


    For that reason, Opal had spoken of excuses.


    Then, realizing Opal was nervous, Claude loosens his expression all the time.


    "What do you want Opal to do?


    "Me? I... honestly, I''m interested in what the hell you''re going to do"


    "Sure."


    To Claude''s inquiry in a gentle tone, Opal lost his strength from his shoulder.


    And when I answer my honest feelings, Claude laughs and agrees to encourage me.


    "I''m sure if we don''t see each other like this, you''ll wonder what it''s been all along. So I think we should meet. But when I get back to King''s Landing in two days, I want you to have me present."


    "Of course you do. Thank you, Claude. I''m glad you''re here with me."


    When Opal relieved and smiled, Claude smiled like a prank.


    "To tell the truth, I care, too. You''re a complete wild horse. Otherwise, I''ll lock my jealous not much opal in the attic and never let McCloud see me."


    "... but if you do, I''ll get out. No matter what hand you use."


    "I know. That''s why I love Opal. There''s an opal who''s stubborn and hates losing and hates being crooked."


    "Ugh, because I''m not happy! Something not praised!


    To his unexpected confession, Opal turned his cheeks red and puffy.


    As soon as he did, Claude laughed out loud and, in the end, laughed with Opal because he couldn''t stand it either.

 42 12. Consultation

    The day after Opal and Claude returned to King''s Capital.


    Before facing Hubert, whom he had just visited, Opal breathed heavily in front of the door to the living room.


    Claude shakes Opal''s hand like that once and for all before letting go.


    "Thank you, Claude"


    "No, because I''m nervous too"


    "And Claude?


    "I guess it''s because I still can''t believe my luck. But look at me because I''m better."


    To Opal, surprised by the unexpected words, Claude told him like a prank before opening the door.


    There is one Hubert in the reception room, who stands up to see Claude and Opal.


    Hubert, who had not seen him in about a year for Opal, had not changed in particular, but seemed a little tired.


    "Hey, long time no see. McCloud."


    "Roussel.... You''re really married."


    Hubert exchanged hands with Claude, but his gaze turned to Opal.


    Claude gently releases Hubert''s hand and pulls him next door with his arm around Opal''s hips.


    "I don''t know if I need to introduce you, but it''s my wife Opal."


    "Long time no see, my lord"


    "Oh, oh...... Um, did you two get to know each other through a man-test investment?


    Opal hesitated to ask the question and glimpsed Claude.


    I was wondering if I could tell you who the Marquis Roussel is - the third son of the Baron family of the Kingdom of Soci��t��.


    But it seems that the trick led to Hubert''s misunderstanding, which turns his face into something sword-soaked.


    "How long have you two been seeing each other?


    "McCloud, me and Opal are childhood friends."


    "... childhood tame? You two?


    When Claude answered the question, Hubert just opened his eyes saying he couldn''t believe it.


    He still hasn''t passed on Claude''s origins to his country.


    Deciding that Claude himself did not seem particularly intent on hiding it, Opal began a detailed explanation.


    "Claude is from the Kingdom of Socieux. Claude''s parents'' baroness and father''s Earl Holloway''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor''s neighbor


    "Roussel - No, Claude Fred..."


    Hubert muttered Claude''s name and seemed to compare it to the Soci��t�� Kingdom Nobility Register in his head.


    Though they have the title, Claude''s parents may not be well known to the younger generation because they don''t even go out to King''s Capital every year during the social season.


    Still, Hubert thought of it, staring seriously at Claude again.


    "... how did a man from the Baron family of the Kingdom of Socieux become the Marquis of the Kingdom of Tysey?


    "My maternal grandfather was the head of my predecessor''s Roussel family. And his successor unfortunately died from the plague eight years ago. I don''t know much about me from other countries because I was in a civil war or something."


    "But then at least five years ago, even when I met him for support... is that why Count Holloway introduced you? Have you guys been in touch?


    Hubert, who was grumbling bitterly, asked to pack Opal and Claude as a hack.


    It was as if they suspected that there had been infidelity in the past, and Opal was upset.


    "Me and Claude saw each other once when I first got married and returned to Earl Territory... just a few months before that day, so much so that there was no tone out of Claude. Yet I was in touch with my father, and I can''t believe he was Marquis Roussel..."


    As I should have explained to Hubert, Opal gradually went to Claude - and my father got angry with me, too.


    Opal is always a loser at the heart of things.


    "How worried I was about the development of a man-test that inspired me to know the Marquis Roussel in the first place"


    "Shh, I''m sorry..."


    "It''s not a matter of apologizing. I''m still mad at you."


    "Yes, no, then what..."


    For some reason, Hubert was dull when the subject changed and he was suddenly blamed.


    From such Hubert to Claude, Opal shifts his gaze to kick ass.


    "And Claude!


    "Yeah."


    "Yeah, not!


    "Yes."


    Claude is somewhere fun, I guess, because I miss him.


    Opal is more obstinate than angry.


    Opal hastily regained his normal mind when he realized he was becoming quite childish.


    "I have a lot to say to you, but I''ll do that later. Anyway, now I''m asking for your Excellency''s help. Your letter said you had a consultation about Stella''s future, but what does that mean?


    What was written in the letter from Hubert was that he wanted to talk to Opal about Stella, who somehow became someone else in red.


    Opal is hated by Stella in the first place, and Mrs. Northam will hate Opal''s involvement with Stella as well.


    And yet Opal didn''t understand why Hubert wanted to talk to me until he came all the way here to see me.


    "Actually... I also thought it was time to remarry in order to succeed, and I chose one of the blind candidates whose opponents - Miss Marienne of the Count Ruffon family - had offered the conditions for marriage."


    Hearing Hubert''s words, Opal managed to turn his face into a grin that was going to pull him off.


    It sounds a lot more selfish on its own, but a marriage between nobles would have no choice.


    Maybe it''s a conditional offer because they''re convinced too.


    "What are the conditions?


    "Stella and I have asked in writing... to cut off any ties with Stella."


    "- That means a formal contract that needs to be signed, right?


    "Oh."


    Miss Marienne said - she may actually be the mother, but as I heard, she''s not quite out of line.


    Knowing the rumors that Stella is not Hubert''s mistress is probably a condition to establish her decency and position as a wife.


    The fact that there is talk going on about the conditions of marriage should be a well-known fact even if you are not officially engaged.


    It would be a bit of a scandal if we were to have a breakthrough here - a huge scandal on the women''s side.


    Besides, if the reason is stellar entanglement, the fact becomes like a public acknowledgement of the relationship between the two of us, even if it''s different.


    (So, what do you want me to do...)


    If Opal swallows a sigh about to leak and glimpses next door, Claude looks back with a sympathetic subtle look.


    Claude holds me back that I can do whatever I want, so you can do whatever you want.


    Having concluded so, Opal glanced back at Hubert sitting across the street as he exhaled lightly.


    "In short, Your Excellency has to choose between Mr. Stella and Miss Marienne, right?


    "It is."


    Opal giggled at Hubert, who nodded somewhere relieved.


    "Then you will have trouble talking to me, so make your own decision"

 43 13. Contempt

    "Is...?


    Hubert shrugged at Opal, who seemed cold and gave the natural answer.


    But return to me with Claude''s cough to mislead the laugh.


    "Yes, no. I''m talking to you because I can''t decide."


    "So why did you give it to someone else''s me?


    "It... you have been my wife for seven years. You know a lot about Stella, don''t you? And now you''re abandoning Stella?


    "...... so that has nothing to do with me anymore because of the past. As the Duke of McCloud, you should decide for yourself, because you are responsible for the future."


    I felt nostalgic, sick of this unmeshed conversation, and Opal was still sick of it.


    Hubert seems shocked when it comes to it. The upset is on his face.


    "It will be hard to cut the edge with Stella, who grew up like a true sibling, but if you''re going to think about the future of the Duke McCloud family, I wonder if that choice is also necessary. If this time, even if you don''t get along well with Miss Marienne, other ladies might believe the rumors and ask for similar terms. Besides, you trust Stella quite a bit so she doesn''t have any trouble with her life ahead of her, right? Of course, money isn''t everything, but Mrs. Stella has Mrs. Northam and old-fashioned servants - because Romit and Beth are beside her too -"


    "Beth is gone"


    In the end, Claude looked interesting at the opal he was consulting, but Hubert gradually became discouraged.


    And suddenly I turned my face and blocked Opal''s words.


    "... no Beth? Is something wrong?


    Opal was surprised to hear that Beth wasn''t around to admire Stella so much.


    But soon I smile at the thought of a reason.


    "You''re married, aren''t you?


    "No. But Beth seems to have a child in her belly, and Mrs. Northam fired her"


    "... what?


    Opal now gave a frightened reply to Hubert''s answer, which revealed contempt.


    Though I understand it with my head, I have a strong feeling that it is not.


    Yet Hubert restates seriously.


    "Beth is trying to have a child without a father. You can''t be hiring such a person."


    "Well! Beth is a virgin gesture, isn''t she! It''s a miracle."


    "That''s not true, is it? Beth won''t tell me her father''s name!


    Opal, angry at Hubert''s words, deliberately rejoiced.


    Then Claude laughs, and Hubert roughs up his voice.


    Hearing the words, Opal also continued not to hide his contempt.


    "So don''t you have a father? Seems like a very irresponsible man though."


    In the words of a chilling opal, Hubert seems to have finally noticed his rudeness.


    An instant of agitation appeared on his face, but he immediately gave a stark look.


    "Still, it doesn''t make any difference that Beth acted irresponsibly"


    "Why should a woman in a weak position always fight alone?


    "What?


    "No...... I don''t know the details. I''m not going to say anything more about Beth. Anyway, if you''re thinking about the future of the House of the Duke of McCloud, I think it would be best if Miss Marienne''s terms were upheld."


    He was an opal who became emotional remembering past events that had discredited his own reputation, but returned to me with Claude''s hands softly overlaid.


    "But then there''s too much Stella..."


    "So why don''t we have another discussion with Miss Marienne? Or if Stella were married, things would change."


    "I can''t do that. I''ve invited a few of my friends to the mansion to meet Stella, and each time Stella has a terrible seizure. Apparently, I think I have to get married, and I feel pressured."


    "Put your friend in the mansion...?


    "Oh."


    Opal, who was expressing his opinions in a serious consultation with himself, inquired as a


    I could have expected Stella to be reluctant to marry a man other than Hubert, but I noticed when I heard about inviting a friend to the mansion.


    If prized Beth chooses to deal with them - maybe she was forced to do it a little bit - I thought she might be one of Hubert''s friends.


    Some of Hubert''s friends had seen Opal face to face at night clubs and such during his bachelor years as well.


    Some of them have problems with bare behavior, and Opal has been made uncomfortable.


    It wasn''t until after I got married that I found out I was a friend of Hubert''s, but I thought later that Hubert''s terrible attitude might be because he was being blown into lies about Opal by them.


    (You can''t say to a duke opponent over thirty that a friend is like an overprotective mother who should choose, can you? Nevertheless, leaving Beth alone like this also......)


    Claude pounds gently at the hand of the opal he was unintentionally thinking about.


    If he looked up at what was going on, Claude smiled to encourage him before turning back to Hubert.


    "It''s early to say the return of Opal, but I think we''ll go to the Kingdom of Socieux soon. I''m looking forward to introducing you to the bride of the future at that time, as you''ll probably show your face to the social world."


    "No, but..."


    "Opal would have already answered your consultation, wouldn''t he? All you have to do is draw your own conclusions."


    Hubert tried to say something to Claude, who had finally told him he wanted him to go home.


    But Claude stands up a little more clearly.


    When this happened, Hubert also had to lift his hips, and Opal stood up with Claude''s hand.


    "I wish you luck, McCloud."


    "- Oh, thank you. Opal, Roussel, be happy."


    "Of course I am."


    "... thank you, my lord"


    Claude and Hubert shook hands and Opal replied with a gentle smile.


    Seems like a greeting to me, but given my current relationship, I can''t help it.


    "Opal, I''m sorry for everything."


    "No, I''m very sorry I couldn''t help you."


    "Enough is enough. You''re interrupting, Roussel."


    "- McCloud, I''ve heard rumors in the Kingdom of Soci��t�� that there are going to be thieves recently, okay?


    "Oh. I was already tied up with that one. Apparently, they broke up, and the leader was killed and became a U.N. crowd."


    "Right."


    The thief''s story was the first for Opal, but they''ve already solved it.


    The last time Hubert saw Opal, he turned his heel back and boarded the carriage he had been waiting for.


    And as the carriage ran out, Opal looked up at Claude.


    "Are you sure?


    "You care about a woman named Beth, don''t you?


    Despite the terminal inquiry, it seems to have passed right on to Claude.


    Besides, he even understands what Opal wants.


    "But could His Majesty forgive me?


    "It''s okay. Because Your Majesty knows."


    "That Claude is going home?


    "My priorities."


    I think I understand the meaning of this word and it''s different.


    We''re going to know Claude very well, but when King Alessandro gets involved, it gets harder as soon as possible.


    "It''s been eight years."


    "Totally agree, but I don''t think it was the eight years I needed"


    "Totally agree."


    Opal replied so, laughing face to face with Claude.


    Laughing lightens my heart.


    Remembering that Hubert and I had never laughed together, Opal swore to his heart to take care of this laugh.

 44 14. Return home

    "It''s almost season and you''ve been borrowed a lot, haven''t you?


    Opal, who stepped out of the carriage, asked Claude in front of the mansion in the heart of King Soci��t��''s capital.


    The mansion itself is not that big, but the ages are quite old, and overall the taste of the hobby also comes from the exterior.


    Perfect location from and close to Count Holloway''s residence.


    Many do not have mansions in the King''s Capital, which the uppermost members of society will massively push over if the season begins.


    It should have been difficult to rent a mansion like this without booking it from last year.


    Opal, impressed that it was a hurried return, saw Claude''s face and reconsidered his thoughts.


    "You bought it? And quite a while ago."


    "I bought it for investment. You were right not to lend it this year."


    "Why didn''t you lend it this year?


    "... anticipation? Well, let''s go in anyway."


    "Yeah, right."


    We know each other well, but there''s still something we don''t know.


    Deciding to look forward to that, Opal began to climb the stairs to the front door with his hands on Claude''s offered arm.


    "Pretty nice interior, too."


    "I''m glad you said that."


    Having been introduced to deacons and other servants who came out of well-timed open doors, Opal stepped into the mansion and glanced around the entrance hall to voice his honest thoughts.


    Then Claude laughs and answers, leading Opal to the living room.


    Seeing Naja talking to the maid amicably, Opal went straight into the living room, leaving the loading supervisor to decide she seemed ok.


    And leaks an exclamation exhale.


    The interior was decorated with furniture and decorations of Opal''s choice.


    "It''s lovely..."


    Opal gently stroked the seat of the damask weave as he lowered his back to the couch.


    Claude looks happy to see such an opal.


    I wanted to say a lot, but it was simple and important words that came from Opal''s mouth.


    "Claude, thank you for bringing me to such a lovely house"


    "You''re welcome. If you liked Opal, it was worth the purchase."


    Opal looked nostalgic with a smile as if the prank had succeeded.


    Of course I wasn''t so nice back in the day.


    (Yeah. Claude was always nice. It was just a little hard to understand...)


    Opal was more busy and my best.


    Opal, who remembered that, while embarrassed, stared again at Claude.


    "What''s wrong?


    "I''m glad Claude liked me. I thought so."


    After answering Claude''s question, Opal realized it would be a streamlined misunderstanding of the story.


    So I hastily add.


    "It''s not because this house is nice, is it?


    "I know. But can I ask why?


    Apparently Opal''s werewolf was funny, and Claude asks even more when he speaks up and laughs.


    Although I hesitated slightly as to how I should answer, I quickly found the exact answer to Claude now.


    "Claude will fight with me."


    "Of course, if it''s for Opal, I''ll throw this life out too!


    Opal erupted into Claude''s trick of holding his chest in exaggeration.


    Then Claude gets the look that he''s out of his mind, and then he laughs.


    "So, how are you getting ready for this fight?


    "For now, I know where Beth is."


    "The charity Opal founded - were you in an institution for the protection and independence of women?


    "No. I don''t think I visited the facility. Apparently, Mrs. Northam gave her some pooled sum as a retirement pension. That''s all you have to save."


    Opal wrote to a deputy in the Kingdom of Soci��t�� soon after Hubert''s visit, asking him to look into Beth''s news.


    The deputy was introduced to Jonathan Kenzitt, Opal''s uncle, but he''s quite a doer and reliable.


    As soon as the Opals descended into the port of the Kingdom of Socieux about Beth, they were given a letter of inquiry by an agent.


    It should only be about two or three days since we received Opal''s letter, and Opal thinks we''ve probably been keeping an eye on the trend for the Duke McCloud family for a long time.


    "So do we need the results of McCloud''s friends'' recent bareback survey here?


    "Thank you, Claude. That''s very helpful."


    Perhaps Claude is also independently investigating Beth.


    It''s not that I don''t trust Opal, it''s that he moves to help me at all times.


    "Tomorrow I''m going to visit Beth."


    "Should I not be with you?


    "Right. Because it''s comforting to me, but Beth might get scared."


    "Then I''ll arrange a carriage. Would you like something plain with no family crest? And I want you to take my escort with you."


    "Yeah. Okay. Thanks for everything, Claude."


    Opal thanked Beth for ending the topic and then turned it into a topic about the recent situation in the Kingdom of Soci��t��.


    And the next day...


    Opal, who got off the carriage outside the Wang capital, looked up at the old collective home.


    They don''t seem to take much care of it, but there is no litter scattering or odor.


    I confirm that security is not that bad either.


    Still, both your men and your servants were carrying guns, and even a little further away, the escorts were arriving.


    "Well, shall we go?


    "Yes, ma''am"


    Opal nodded gently and signaled to his lord when he spoke to Naja, who was looking up at the building with him.


    In response, he touches his hand by the hat and begins to run the carriage.


    The carriage will wait a little further away, and the squire and escort will be on alert in the immediate vicinity so as not to be conspicuous.


    The room in the report is the western corner room upstairs.


    Opal stood in front of the room of interest as he went up the stairs in light footsteps with Naja.


    There is no name on the door where the corrosion is starting, knocking firmly, albeit a little anxious.


    I''m pretty sure Beth is at home because I confirmed it in advance, but it took me a while to respond.


    The moment Naja, who had cut off the paralysis, tried to open her mouth with some good call, there was a noise on the other side of the door and the sound of unlocking.


    "- Yes?"


    The face I peeked at from the slightest gap was certainly Beth, but it''s been pretty snappy since Opal last saw it and looks old.


    Opal grinned, forcefully opening the door wide, even though he was small and shocked by Beth''s change who was so strong.


    "Hello, Beth"


    "- Become!?


    Surprised Beth shuddered for a moment, but immediately tried to close the door.


    Momentum pushed the door away from Opal''s hand, but pinched his leg tightly.


    Ignoring the tingling toe pain, Opal opened the door wide again.


    "No, Beth. It''s been a while, so let''s talk a little bit."


    "... did you come to laugh at me?


    "Oh, it''s not even funny, but it''s not funny. But it could be something similar. It''s just a wild horse."


    Beth cried woefully at Opal''s words, which she would not even comfort.

 45 15. Facts

    "Oh, you are truly... terrible, like a demon!


    "Yeah? Your wife''s a very sweet person, though? Well, it''s a little mean, tough, and some things don''t accommodate, but if someone''s in trouble with their emotions, they can''t want it! You can''t come all the way across the ocean to wild horses."


    "Naja..."


    Naja, who remained silent until then, seemed unbearable to Beth''s words, which she complained about as she squeaked up.


    I hope I suddenly interrupted and rebutted, but the content was subtle and Opal laughed bitterly without knowing what to say.


    But Beth stops tearing surprises at the appearance of a new figure.


    "So, who?


    "I am your wife''s maid. I''ve known your wife well for a long time."


    If Beth asks while she is frightened, Naja answers proudly.


    You didn''t like that, Beth glanced at Nadja.


    "Wow, I was a samurai too. But this guy is so cold..."


    "Ha!? That''s not true! No one is more angelic than your wife!


    "Um, Naja? I''m very happy with that word, but keep it up then a little...... Beth, would you mind letting me in the room?


    Opal hastily pinched his mouth as he was about to leave it, as the story slipped away due to Naja''s entry.


    In the meantime, we get tired of each other, conspicuously, even when we talk at the front door forever.


    So I urged Beth to put me in the room, and she honestly let me know if she was distracted by Naja''s appearance.


    Opal was surprised that the indoors, where aging had progressed as well as the exterior, were barely furnished.


    One small round table and chair on a sliced carpet.


    No fireplace, no sofa, no benches, no chest.


    It''s a lie when it comes to whether a wealthy born opal knows the lives of ordinary people, but I can tell that life is just in trouble in this room.


    But as he took another step, one door caught his eye, and Opal exhaled with relief for some reason.


    "You still have a room in the back of that?


    "If I put the bed down, there''s just a bedroom full of it"


    "So where do you cook? Where''s the bathroom or washroom?


    "It''s all joint. Any other questions?


    If you have any complaints, just tell me, Beth sticks out her tummy, which is so big that she''s still going to be born, and stands with her hands on her hips.


    Perhaps we should be sympathetic, but still Opal chuckled with a strong attitude that never changed before.


    "Then I won''t hesitate to ask questions. Who is that kid''s father?


    Beth was much more breathtaking in a straightforward question without hesitation or consideration.


    Its complexion is faintly bad, but there is no fear or aversion.


    Opal suppressed his desire to pursue further and opened the door behind him at will.


    "What do you do!?


    "Unwelcome guests are rude."


    With that said, Opal sat down on a small bed without a mattress.


    Although it felt like it was on a solid floor despite sitting on top of the hanging, Opal invites Beth without putting it on her expression.


    "It''s hard to stand forever, isn''t it? Let''s sit down and talk."


    "I''m not your samurai anymore!


    "Yeah, right. Now that I have a competent samurai, I don''t need a rebellious samurai"


    Opal smiled again, praying that Beth wouldn''t be any more mean inside.


    Naja laughs a lot when she sees such a hypocritical attitude of Opal.


    To the thickness of the two people who suddenly pushed and sat down, Beth seemed to pass through anger and give up.


    exhales so loudly that he sits next to Opal.


    "... how were you there?


    "I was angry when I heard about you."


    "Is it to me?


    "To all those around you, including you"


    Beth almost cried in unforgiving Opal''s words, but now she seems to have enjoyed herself much more.


    Opal offered to Beth when he received the cage from Naja, who stood at the entrance to the narrow bedroom.


    "It''s getting late, but I''m gonna plug it in."


    "Plug in?"


    "Yes. I didn''t know what you liked, so I had it properly packed with sunshine."


    Beth''s face glowed as she took the cloth that Opal was wearing in his cage.


    Apparently, he was also stuffing his meal.


    "No assistance from the father of the belly child?


    "It''s..."


    "You''re a lot irresponsible."


    "Master Keymont is not irresponsible! You said you would definitely pick me up!


    Beth said her father''s name but didn''t seem to realize it.


    I''m staring at Opal, but there''s anxiety in his eyes.


    I guess the word now speaks to itself more than Opal.


    Keymont remembered Opal well because he had dropped by several times during his bachelor years.


    And I read the paperwork Claude prepared for me, and I was surprised that it hasn''t changed.


    I also felt sorry for Beth, who was being deceived, while reassured that she didn''t seem forced to.


    "... are you still in touch?


    "Now... I''m waiting until most of it cools down. If it gets too noisy, Master Keymont may be taken care of by the Count. Because then they will also be removed from the inheritance heirs and their lives together will be painful... So they''re going to look at the timing and talk to the Count so he can admit it."


    "Yes..."


    Opal was quietly answering, but inside he was angry.


    According to Claude''s survey, Jeff Keemont, the Count''s second son, has already inherited a lot of property.


    And yet you just make Beth dream sweet dreams and leave her alone without any assistance.


    And he''s still living a pretty light, corrupt life.


    "Well, I''m leaving now. Sorry to bother you all of a sudden."


    That''s what Opal said. When he stood up, he gave Beth a hand in trying to stand up.


    Beth looks at Opal in surprise.


    "I''d really like to say it''s a good idea to drop him off, but we have to keep the door tight."


    As Opal and Beth got out of the bedroom, Naja panicked and rose out of the chair.


    It seems backward that he was sitting in a chair with only one leg without permission from his landlord, Beth, than worried that he would be pissed off that he was resting.


    But Beth doesn''t seem to get around to that, and she follows Opal casually.


    Opal stood in front of the door leading outside, looking back and staring at Beth.


    "- There have been some very painful and sad things in life, but there have been many fun and happy things. So please take care of your body and don''t push it."


    "... Yes"


    Beth''s voice did not rely on it small, but there was no sadness in its face.


    Opal smiled gently to encourage him to leave the old, small room with Naja.

 46 16. Return

    "Well! I wonder what a great day this is! I can''t believe the Duchess McCloud is coming back to us!


    "... I''m Marquise Roussel now"


    "Oh, you did. So where''s the Marquis?


    The host of the night club, the Viscount shook her fat body and peered behind Opal.


    The Viscount''s loud voice echoes throughout the venue and gets everyone''s attention.


    Opal explored his expression to gauge the sincerity of the Viscount while keeping a smile, but he sees no malice.


    Apparently he hasn''t thought of anything, but surprisingly, these types are harder to handle.


    "My husband is such a busy man that I can''t get away from my desk... So even though I wasn''t even invited this way, I pushed it. Sorry for the inconvenience?


    "It''s outrageous! You''re always welcome!


    If Opal answered with just a little loneliness, the Viscount clouded her expression with sympathy.


    It was painful to deceive a relatively good lady, except that her mouth was surprisingly light, but it wouldn''t be bad because this conversation with Opal makes her a popular member of the social community for a while.


    And the deacon in this House shouldn''t be blamed for passing Opal without an invitation.


    Opal relieved himself as he saw his wife rushing to deny the inquiry excusing her sudden visit.


    Hubert didn''t seem to tell anyone that Opal and Claude were planning to return to their country.


    The return of Opal has not been passed on to the social community, either on the road or because I never met anyone I knew in particular.


    So Opal suddenly chose to attend a nightclub instead of bothering to write to someone or take a walk in the park to appeal to existence.


    The social world is gorgeous and poisonous, and the majority of people flock to something topical.


    As expected, there have been many gatherings with Opal away from the Viscount.


    Everyone is desperate to entertain Opal and get a little closer.


    Opal smiled calmly and responded, yet his feelings were quite chilling.


    Eight years ago, they were scorned by the women because of bad rumors, and the men even threw dirty words at them.


    However, the invitation was uninterrupted because of its identity and wealth, and Opal was present willingly, but now I think it was foolish.


    So I realized that nothing had changed even now.


    Opal is gaining more status and wealth than he was then.


    Former Duchess of McCloud and now Marquis Roussel.


    There is still more and more about wealth.


    Eight years ago, I was going to be fighting for my honor.


    Now it''s in Beth''s honor - more for self-satisfaction, I''m sure.


    You don''t have to do this, you can give Beth as much assistance in life as you want.


    When I thought about it that way, Keymont, the culprit of Beth''s ordeal, called out to Opal.


    "Long time no see, Marquise. Remember me?


    "... Yep. Long time no see, Sir Keemont."


    "You just thought about it, didn''t you? Now is the proof."


    A little while opened because I was surprised by Keymont''s attitude, which was too familiar, but Opal was even more surprised by the words that followed.


    Hubert and his alumni Keymont are too childish, even though they are in their mid-thirties.


    Besides, Opal and I only danced at some ball once eight years ago.


    I used to think I was complacent, but now it seemed more than that.


    "Sir Keymont, it must be pretty hard to remember someone you just danced with eight years ago, right?


    "Then you have to dance again to remind me clearly"


    Keymont didn''t get the taste through, and Opal was soon forcefully taken out to the dance floor to say no.


    Speaking of which, I even recall giving up and dancing to such a forceful attitude in the past.


    If so, an incredible word was whispered in Opal''s ear, which Beth also resisted at first, but thought might have broken in the end.


    - What is it?


    "So if you''re lonely, I''m telling you I can do it for you."


    "Lonely?"


    "Hubert separated me, and if the next time I got married was a bumpy grandfather, that would bore you too, wouldn''t it? I can make you feel good. I''m sure you''ve never even experienced Hubert. He''s solid."


    I wasn''t going to make a scene tonight.


    Opal pushed himself to this uninvited night club to actually meet and find out who Keymont is.


    I also checked their plans in advance that neither Hubert nor Miss Marienne would want to see each other.


    And yet I couldn''t stand it more because of disgust and nausea than anger.


    Opal headed all the way from Keymont to the exit, despite being in the middle of the song.


    "Marquise!?


    Ignoring Keymont''s surprise, he didn''t stop his legs when exposed to the gaze of curiosity while walking out of the way of the dancing people.


    I guess I didn''t remember this much disgust eight years ago because Keymont was still barely in the realm of good youth, even if he was more narcissistic than we were young with each other.


    He joined Naja, who had refrained in the separate room, and Opal, who went outside the mansion, was relieved.


    Then a carriage comes right in front of me, somewhat prepared to be waited for.


    And I got in the carriage and was amazed.


    "Claude!?


    "Hey Opal. That was faster than I thought, wasn''t it?


    "It''s... more than that, why are you here?


    "Of course, because I wanted to see Opal soon."


    "Oh, I''m sorry to bother you."


    Claude gave a deliberately hurtful look when Opal gave him a doubtful gaze while he was happy.


    But I smile at one blurry Naja.


    "I''m always sorry, Naja."


    "I''m having fun."


    "Oh..."


    Naja grinned and returned, sitting in the seat across the street and closing her eyes.


    It''s a trick that you haven''t heard, but you''ll be listening.


    Still, Claude continued, as Naja wouldn''t mind asking.


    "I''m sure Opal would have caused some commotion. I thought I could run anytime, but I didn''t seem to need it."


    "Excuse me. I haven''t caused any disturbances.... this time it just came out in the middle of a dance"


    "Leave Keymont on the floor?


    "How did you know it was Lord Keymont?


    "I don''t care about Opal. I wonder if it''s because they don''t move their emotions. I went to see Keymont tonight, so Keymont''s the only reason Opal''s mad, right?


    When I hear Claude smile and a low, calm voice, Opal''s sprouty disgust disappears.


    Relaxed and exhaled, Opal left his head on Claude''s shoulder.


    "Thank you, Claude"


    "Yeah. I like it, Opal"


    "I don''t have a pulse."


    "Really?"


    "But I like it, too."


    "I know."


    "... So you know this? The Marquis Roussel seems to be a bumpy grandfather."


    It was embarrassing to continue with the topic as it was, and Opal missed the point.


    Then Naja squirts and hurries to hold her mouth, and Claude sighs like she gave up.


    "Does anyone still believe that information"


    "I used to believe that too. The Marquis Roussel is an elderly man."


    "The deputy hasn''t changed since he was my grandfather. Some people within Socieux still don''t seem to know that their grandfather or uncle has died... well. Does that mean Opal is supposed to have remarried his rather older counterpart"


    "Yeah, looks like it. To get status and wealth."


    I hear Hubert hasn''t even told anyone about the identity of Marquis Roussel.


    Originally, I didn''t like dating in the social world, so naturally.


    "Wow. I wonder how far the hell Opal is going to go up there?


    "Alas, I''m going after His Majesty King Alessandro next."


    "Then I''ll be dumped. That''s sad. I still love you, Opal."


    If Opal jokes, Claude gets on too.


    But to the confession that followed, Opal was unable to answer and missed his face.


    "Is that it? Now you won''t give it back to me?


    "Don''t expect me to always return it"


    "Well, that''s too bad."


    If you turn your gaze properly, Claude is laughing with pleasure.


    Claude is sweet to opal, but opal is weak to claude like that.


    Opal, who was steadily raising his jaw, laughed indulgently, and Claude laughed even louder.


    Naja looked at both of them with open eyes and delight.

 47 17. Invitations

    The next morning.


    Opal sighed loudly before the piled invitation.


    "That''s what I should say..."


    "Did they follow you that they found out where you were staying in just one night?


    "Or did you look up every rental that looks like it?


    "What do you think? I also rented a carriage when I rented this mansion, so I might have looked into the features of the carriage."


    "I see."


    Opal left pretty early last night, so I guess the rumors spread quickly after that.


    Many of the invitees had the names of those who weren''t at the Viscount''s night club last night.


    "But it''s pretty rare for you."


    "What did you answer yesterday about me?


    "I''m too busy to leave my desk," he replied.


    "Oh, so they didn''t think that the old marquis was in this country."


    "Should I have told him properly?


    "No, that''s fine. I''m free to move."


    When he saw Claude laughing at him, Opal just raised a single eyebrow and said nothing.


    Claude seems to be working in this country too, but Opal will tell me if he needs to.


    Opal sighed again as he wrapped up the invitation.


    "The people in this country who met the Marquis Roussel in person seem to have a lot of hard mouth."


    "No, mostly because I left it to the deputy. I haven''t actually met him. Even within the kingdom of Tysey, I''ve only recently begun to show my face to the royal palace as Marquis Roussel."


    "Oh, you did"


    Until my father told me a year ago, Opal also thought the Marquis Roussel was an elderly man.


    Nevertheless, it should be more rumoured that the Marquis Roussel was from the Kingdom of Soci��t��, but I guess there is still some reason why it hasn''t.


    "This is Claude''s share. I''ll let you know if I''ll be there or not."


    "Oh, okay. Which one will Opal attend, by the way?


    "I haven''t decided yet. So I''ll be absent from anything that''s close to the date."


    "So what are your plans for the future?


    "Because of this, I''m going to extend my legs to the city of Novoli after going to the territory and seeing how it goes"


    "Novoli..."


    "I knew it was too far away?


    "Lately there have been rumors of thieves coming out."


    "A thief? Were you talking to the Duke of McCloud before?


    "No, it''s not like that. It''s pretty small, too. It''s the opposite of where the thieves are headed, but I''ll take you on your way."


    "It''s okay. I''ll put on a good escort."


    "I''m worried about you. If it''s true, I hope I can come with you, but I can''t do that, so at least let me drive you along the way."


    "Okay."


    It was an opal I said no to once, but the only way to persuade me gently was to break it.


    Then Claude laughs satisfactorily.


    "I''m going to act differently for a while, but this looks like a couple now."


    "Lonely?"


    "Nothing�� now"


    It''s a topic I shook from myself, but when I''m asked straight, I get mean.


    Still, Claude laughed without looking angry.


    I hate myself for not being honest, but Claude gets it right.


    In the end Opal also laughed and ended the discussion.


    - That afternoon.


    Opal was visiting a women''s shelter in Wangdu for comfort.


    The facility also serves as a hub for the organisation launched by Opal, where many officials work.


    Most of them were women on the protected side at first, but now they were trying to be independent.


    (And then there''s understanding of society...)


    Opal was reflecting on his conversation with the facility staff and the women in the car on his return.


    It''s a situation where most protected women have been caged unmarried, fired from work, or abandoned by their families.


    Nevertheless, not only do I protect them, but I get them to work according to their circumstances.


    If you are pregnant, you are entrusted with tasks such as cooking and laundry in the facility, rest immediately after childbirth, other than taking care of your baby, and gradually return to your original job, taking into account your physical condition.


    When the child turns one year old, she leaves daytime parenting to the women in the institution, and she goes out to work to reintegrate into society - aiming to leave the institution, but that''s hard.


    There are not many places for unmarried mothers to work.


    As Mrs. Northam dismissed Beth, the world has a strong feeling about her unmarried mother.


    In a society where I couldn''t get a decent job without a reference, I was mostly dismissed without a reference.


    On top of that, even if the child is too big to handle, he often doesn''t get hired for the reason that he is an unmarried mother.


    It''s only been a little over a year since Opal launched this charity, but there were already not enough places for the women to accept it.


    (I can give them as much financial assistance as they can live with, but then they can''t...)


    Opal has enough wealth to roar.


    Enough to feed many mothers and children for decades even as it is.


    But that doesn''t solve anything.


    Women supported by opals and protection groups are probably just a handful of women in need of support.


    If we go to the provinces, many women and children are in distress without anyone being able to help them, and they are the worst of all dead.


    I want it to be the kind of society that many people in this country will understand and support if possible.


    Of course I know how steep and distant that is on the road.


    But if you don''t aim - if you don''t start, nothing will change.


    (Men are always involved in the cause of women being hunted down in the first place. It''s strange that only women are responsible for that)


    Whatever it was like. I wouldn''t get pregnant without the presence of a man.


    There are also women in protective facilities who have been constantly seeking protection from their husbands'' violence.


    Everyone has a difficult situation.


    Yet as the same woman, why can we overlook a woman in such a situation?


    Besides, many upper-class women even scorn.


    (We need to change it from that consciousness first...)


    I hope you don''t at least try to exclude me, even if I don''t understand everything.


    Even if you can''t admit it, I want you to at least leave me alone.


    And if you can afford it, I need your help, just a little bit.


    If each person''s consciousness changes, society changes little by little.


    It''s a big problem for one opal to have, but that''s also why it''s rewarding.


    Determined to do what needed to be done first, Opal held both hands for a long time.

 48 18. Old Crossing

    Opal, who had not come to the city of Novoli in a long time, was delighted to reunite with Omar, the administrator of the Duke of McCloud territory.


    You can''t just step into the territory of the Duke of McCloud, so Omer bothered to come out.


    I really wanted to see Lind, the consulate butler, and Debbie, the housekeeper, too, but that unfortunately had to be given up.


    "Nevertheless, I''m getting older when the city changes so much."


    "Let''s not talk about age. More than that, I think it''s been the last couple of years since this city has changed so much. Something that hadn''t changed so much the last time I came here."


    Apparently Omer never set foot in the city of Novoli for eight years.


    Opal himself was surprised, even though he answered the words of surprise Omar.


    Opal had visited the city of Novoli several times since then, but at that time nothing had changed more.


    My escort, Naja, saw the vibrant streets and was quite hazy when she arrived.


    "So how was your trip?


    "Yeah, thanks. It was so full."


    Omer didn''t ask deeply, but apparently he realizes that this trip to Opal isn''t just a territorial inspection.


    Opal was meeting with the owner of a railway company in the city of Novoli after making sure he had no problems with the territory.


    The story is not about going out of your way, so Omer and I were thrilled with topics about the latest agricultural machinery, etc.


    There''s a nostalgic voice there.


    "Hi, this is the Duchess of McCloud. Long time no see."


    Omer turned tannic with his eyes on the person who appeared, and Opal chuckled after signaling to the escort that he was fine, who had immediately tried to come closer.


    "Long time no see, Lubbo. But I''m not the Duchess of McCloud anymore."


    "Oh, I think I heard about that, too. So what should I call you now?


    - Mrs. Fred''s fine.


    "Oh, were you remarried?


    "Yes, it is."


    If you''re an informant Lubbo, you know about remarriage, but since you''re going to ask me white questions, Opal didn''t name Claude''s title either.


    Having taken Omer''s debt to Opal eight years ago, LeBeau remains as elusive as ever.


    This reunion is also disguised as a coincidence, but I guess I came all the way to see you.


    I didn''t think LeBeau used this popular salon from time to time.


    They decided that the escort really didn''t seem harmful to Opal, and would sit back in a slightly away seat again.


    Naja had been silently listening to the conversation with Omar until now, but she made her face shine at Lubbo''s appearance.


    Apparently, he''s excited about Lubbo''s spicy style.


    "Because of this, may I join you?


    "I don''t mind."


    "Wow, nothing for me either..."


    "What is it, Omer? You don''t owe me anything anymore, so why don''t you be grand?"


    "Ha..."


    I guess I don''t feel comfortable even if I don''t owe you one.


    Opal was stunned by the meanness of Lubbo, who knew and disturbed him.


    Bad for Omer with a burden, but a lot to get in conversation with Lubbo.


    And Lebow, who is a legitimate lender of gold, is a casual person, contrary to appearance.


    Nevertheless, there must not have been such things as a lady getting close to a loan of gold, and it was dishonorable just to be seen where we were together.


    But no one cares if you take your wings off a little in the city of Novoli.


    Of course that doesn''t matter to Opal, he''s just dating someone he wants to.


    "I was also talking to Omar, and I was surprised because the streets had changed a lot"


    "Oh, that''s because the city has boiled down to a bit of a good economy this past year."


    "Good economy?"


    Speaking to Lubbo, who sat down next to Omer, he returned an unexpected answer.


    Especially since there shouldn''t have been anything like a better economy in this neighborhood in recent years.


    Sure, the Marquis, the great lord of this city of Novoli, owns gold mines in other territories, but that doesn''t matter because he has been supplying regular quantities for quite some time.


    "Do you know the story of a thief who was crowding the public a while back?


    "Yeah. You got caught breaking up, didn''t you?


    Opal nodded, recalling his parting conversation with Hubert, who had even visited the kingdom of Tysey.


    Claude told me after that that that the Marquis, a lord of the neighborhood, was also damaged.


    He was attacked several times on the way carrying the gold he dug out of the gold mine, and took the gold.


    "The thieves, they were scattering in this city."


    "Oh, that''s a disgusting distribution."


    "That''s right. They''ve killed a lot of people. Nevertheless, gold is gold. At the time, everyone only thought about regular customers with good wings. They were dressed as gentlemen when they came to the city, and no one thought they were thieves. They lost a lot in gambling. For that matter, other customers won and moistened, as did the store. So my business is going up. The one who owes you money is gone."


    At the end of the day, listening to Rubo, who became a fool, Opal remembered Claude''s worries.


    When he arrived, Claude drove me halfway because the thief was leaving.


    They''re not like the thieves Lebow says, but that''s the problem.


    "You''ve made this country pretty insecure in the past year."


    "Times are changing rapidly. Everyone is desperate. But those who can''t keep up with change can only sleep on the streets or attack on the streets."


    "Much more extreme."


    When Opal groaned with a sigh, Omer replied to excuse him.


    But for Opal, crime is a crime.


    There are many people in the world who try to live right, no matter how painful, and crime is no excuse.


    Still, I couldn''t help but hit Omer with anger, so I just spit out one word.


    Then Rubo continues to shelter Omar.


    "No, Omer''s right. I''m sorry to say this, but Madame is a strong man and a winner. I''ve gotten gold and status since I was born. Now that I''m grown up, I''m getting even more money and status."


    "When you say that, I won''t be able to say anything. Something that won''t even make you angry with criminals."


    "No, no, of course the lady can be angry. Emotions are free."


    "But you want me to be careful what I say and do?


    ''Cause it''s been noted.''


    "Yes, but I will use my position and wealth to live freely. It''s my life. The world has nothing to do with it. Hypocrisy or whatever, but I''m going to help someone who''s facing misery."


    Rubo laughed out loud as Opal answered with his chest stretched.


    Everyone pays attention to that laugh.


    "Looks like you''re in the spotlight."


    I laughed at Opal''s words deliberately blaming Lubo, even Omar, who had done so at first.


    Apparently Omer was sorry for the chilling conversation that started with his remarks.


    They were angry with Lubbo. Naja is laughing, too.


    But Lubbo stayed seated, but bowed his head deeply toward Opal.


    The surroundings wander deliberately as soon as possible.


    "Lubbo?"


    "I hated nobility. But you''re not. You deserve respect."


    - Thank you.


    Surprised by the sudden words of Lubbo, Opal answered calmly.


    Reubeau smiles in his usual mood when he looks up.


    "It must be annoying for you, but I''ve been paying attention to something these past few years. And we enjoyed it a lot."


    "Well, I''m scared"


    As Opal deliberately let him tremble, Lubbo raised his voice again and laughed.


    "I have no father. My mother struggled to raise me by herself. So you may not need such a nasty raw friendship for your wife, but if anything happens, call me. You can always help me." "I can''t believe you''re nasty. That''s very comforting. Thanks, Lubbo."


    "I can help a lot, too!


    "Wow, I can help too!


    Opal was happy to answer Lubbo''s thankful offer.


    Then even Naja and Omer, who have been silent until now, continue.


    "Thank you, Naja, Omer. I''m happy to have so many reliable allies."


    The words were heartfelt, even though I answered with a smile.


    The people in the city who don''t usually interfere with others also care who that woman is that makes Lebow say so much.


    Without worrying about that gaze, the Opals enjoyed their afternoon.

 49 19. Ballistics

    Opal, who returned to King''s Capital after fifteen days of itinerary, was attending a certain ball the following day.


    Because the information I purchased in advance showed that Keymont would attend as well.


    It was too late to give a reply of attendance, but the organizers, the Viscounts of Cloisel, were pleased to welcome them.


    And as soon as I finished greeting the couple, Opal was surrounded by a lot of people.


    "Marquise Roussel, do you remember me?


    "Of course I remember, Countess Keemont. It''s good to see you again."


    Opal was smiling and answering, but inside he was in a hurry for a little miscalculation.


    The Countess of Keymont is Keymont''s mother, who is the object of this one, as well as a heavy town in the social world.


    Keymont may not appear at the ball in the presence of his mother for a moment.


    In that case, we have to choose another night club carefully so that we don''t bowl in with the Huberts.


    Besides, the Countess Keymont was very narrow and arrogant in character, and she used to say about her bachelorette Opal: ''Such a mundane daughter should be tightened out of a social setting''.


    When I was in the depressed mood that I might be spending tonight without any fruit, I heard a nostalgic voice followed.


    "Long time no see, Opal. I heard you were home, but I didn''t see you at all, so I was worried. Where did you want it?


    "... Long time no see, Chiara. The purpose of my return was to inspect the territory, so I was away from the King''s Capital for a while."


    "An inspection of the territory? I wish I didn''t have to do such a hassle, let someone handle it? And that''s not what ladies do."


    "Really?"


    Opal laughed affectionately, thinking that where he pushed his unsolicited values had not changed from the old days.


    Chiara was close until before she had that scandal, but she''s been ignoring Opal ever since.


    Not only the two of them, but most of the people surrounding Opal were similar.


    That''s why I''m not angry.


    Of course, I felt hurt and regretted at the time, but it didn''t matter since I realized that my pride was actually just broken, not my heart.


    I don''t care what anyone tells me.


    (Well, I feel pretty lonely that I don''t have any friends in the social world...)


    Even the kingdom of Tysey has just made many enemies.


    King Alessandro is hard to say on his side and would not be a friend.


    Then I would at least like to consolidate the ground in the Kingdom of Soci��t��, the strength of Opal.


    Opal, who thought so, was smiling and answering to those who spoke to him one after another so that he could be at all at Claude''s power.


    But the problem is Countess Keymont.


    I don''t think Keymont, who is said to be a prodigal, will attend the same ball as his mother, so they must have overlapped without knowing each other''s plans.


    If Keymont shows up here and implements the plan, he will shame the Countess and buy a grudge.


    Opal worried about changing the plan and decided it should still be implemented.


    We all need to know who Keymont is.


    Opal turned his attention to those in the venue, convinced he was okay.


    Most of them will just be happy with the new scandal.


    Some people will dislike Opal''s behavior, but they can''t figure out how to fit in with those opponents.


    You''d rather have more allies, even thin, than spend your effort on such opponents.


    Opal was watching his opponents carefully, smiling and listening to the people surrounding him.


    Many of the people gathered here want something Opal has.


    Eight years ago, the mundane daughter, with her enormous money, became the former Duchess of McCloud and Marquis Roussell.


    Besides, he is also one of the best bourgeoisies in the country.


    The women were trying to draw Opal''s attention to how they could get worthy men and how they could get them to deal with them.


    Still, while I was talking to various people, I had quite a conversation with some people and Opal was able to enjoy it wholeheartedly.


    From now on, society is changing more and more.


    The development of industry has made it possible for people of civilian origin to gain access to the wealth that the upper classes had long monopolized.


    Those who understand and accept the matter, and who also strive, do not look at Opal with colored glasses.


    Think reciprocally, listen properly to Opal''s opinion, and express your opinion.


    Serious arguments, even in opposition, stimulated stubborn opals, giving birth to new views and goals.


    Wealth creates power.


    And wealth and power rule many people.


    Opal thought with a slow view of the people dancing gracefully.


    I wonder how many others are in this besides the earlier ones who can keep up with the changes of the times to come.


    (I heard rumors Viscount Croisel was an advanced idea, but it was true...)


    Many people still think old or bad, but there are many relatively advanced people in this venue who were taught that Opal was the one who was trapped in stereotypes.


    Tonight we were able to talk about investments not only with men but also with women.


    It was a joy for Opal and his chest swelled in anticipation.


    (Maybe we''ll get along soon)


    Opal turned his attention to the woman who had just spoken a little while earlier as she twitched.


    Roana, the courtier of Viscount Cloiselle, the organizer of this ball, probably hadn''t made her debut yet by the time Opal had a face in this social world.


    You look calm because of the way you think, but you should be five years younger than Opal.


    (Oh, what shall I do? What happens to friends? Shake hands to be your friend?)


    Opal, who had no friend-like friends other than Claude, bothered.


    It doesn''t help to mention Claude, who has been my friend since I was a child and realized it.


    I was familiarly spoken from behind when I thought that if adults make friends, they would start by giving cards.


    "Hi, Marquise Roussel. I''m surprised to see you here."


    "... Sir Keemont"


    "I heard from the last ball I saw you that you disappeared like you had hidden in a cloud, but I''m lucky to see you at the ball that you attended again like this. Or is it fate?


    "It''s a coincidence."


    Opal smiled and truncated, but Keymont nodded and didn''t give up.


    When he suddenly took Opal''s hand, he spoke to his back.


    "Then you should be destined from now on"


    I want to slap you in the face.


    Desperately suppressing such a build-up of anger, Opal simply waved his hands away with momentum.


    "I wonder how many women you''ve made cry?


    "Perhaps the number needed to satisfy you."


    "You suck. Instead of talking to you if it''s true, I don''t even want to see your face. But Sir Keemont has something to tell you."


    "Oh, what is it?


    Opal manages to be polite, though I felt sick about Keymont''s grin when he sees him in.


    I have a lot to tell you.


    Even though it had nothing to do with Opal directly, I couldn''t keep my mouth shut when I thought of Beth and the women and children I talked to at the institution.


    "I''m sure the deputy will contact you tomorrow, but I''d like some property sharing to help you pay alimony"


    "... what? What are you talking about, you?"


    "You?"


    All around Opal''s remarks, Keymont was violently upset.


    Of course, that''s what Opal expected, but it''s just frustrating to call you "you".


    "I don''t remember you calling me that, though?


    "What do you call a mundane woman like you?


    Many women breathed much more.


    Some of them cover their mouths like they don''t feel well and leave the spot.


    But Opal didn''t move one eyebrow, and he looked at Keymont chilly.


    "There''s nothing between me and you! I just danced once or twice in the past!


    "Yeah, you''re right. Between me and you. Except for dancing halfway through the prom the other day, I just danced once in the past. And yet somehow you were talking as if you were in a deep relationship with me, right?


    "Oh, that..."


    No one was dancing on the floor now and Opal and Keymont were collecting all ears and eyes.


    Apparently, she was in another room. The Countess Keymont is rushing to hear the noise.


    In it, Keymont stared at Opal by distorting his face to anger.


    "That just got in tune on the spot! Any man would take off his wings when he was younger!? The way we drink, the number of women, we compete to make stupid noises!


    Keymont appealed to the men around him to seek his consent.


    But what returns is a chilling gaze and silence for both men and women.


    "Maybe it was just a foolish fuss to you. But what happens to a woman who''s been discredited? I was hit with disgraceful rumors, but fortunately there were people who believed in me, so I managed to get back on my feet. What about the other women? What about the women who were actually tricked into hurting their honor and caged their children by you?


    "Other women?


    "The maiden of the Duke of McCloud family, who used to serve as my maid of honor, is caged with your child. Also in the protective facilities I support, two women who have had your child have been dismissed from their jobs in the mansion where they worked and are protected by their parents and children, respectively. All three said you promised to marry me."


    Keymont showed impatience in Opal''s words, but quickly lowered his chest.


    That''s where my mother came in.


    "Jeb. What the hell is all this fuss? Did something happen with the Marquise Roussel?


    "Or, Mother. No, it''s no big deal. I''m surprised the Marquise suddenly puts me in a difficult position."


    "What do you mean?


    The Countess provoked hostility toward Opal, as if to protect her young child.


    With the support of such a mother, Keymont returns to his arrogant attitude.


    "If you think of someone else because you say other women, aren''t you just a servant? You know, I wouldn''t marry a servant or anything, but I don''t even know that. It''s about stupid people, like believing what stupid women say. You don''t even know if you''re really my kid in the first place."


    "... you won''t deny that you promised to marry a servant woman and forced her into a relationship"


    "What''s wrong with that? You''re just a servant, right? Instead, there''s as much."


    "This girl was just confused by a humble woman. No sardines to blame."


    I didn''t even think Opal had anyone so far trapped in terrible voter consciousness and blind to the current.


    Few of the privileged classes have thought like Keymont or the Countess.


    But in this day and age, most people wear the art of fixing it.


    In fact, I obviously don''t agree with the Keymonts, but I took the sympathizers for granted.


    "Really...... Now, it''s hard to work without help during pregnancy and childcare, so you''re financially responsible."


    "Huh? So what are you talking about? There''s no way you''re paying me!


    "Then I will do everything in my power to remove all your possessions."


    Opal proclaimed pale, unchanged, against Keymont, who no longer concealed his frustration.


    And only those who knew exactly what that word meant were shocked.

 50 20. Ballistics

    "Ha, ha. What a fool. Sure, you may be surprisingly wealthy for a woman, but that doesn''t mean you can get your hands on someone else''s property. Or do you think I''m gonna give you my fortune like McCloud?


    "Oh, you know money moves money, right?


    Keymont narrowed his eyes surprisingly when Opal answered lightly without getting angry.


    The lady who was laughing with me next door raised her thin brow.


    Opal sighed small when he realized he apparently didn''t understand.


    Like Hubert eight years ago, Keymont probably leaves his assets to a good administrator, agent, or father.


    The only difference with Hubert is that the person I left to was excellent.


    "The small mine that you gave away from your father, the Count - the Aion mine is not well located, but the railroad now passes nearby, makes you dramatically more profitable, doesn''t it?


    "Ah, oh. That''s why you can''t take the ore, right? Not to mention taking the mine."


    "Yeah, of course. The profits that go up from that mine are the biggest of your assets. I''m sorry you took that away from me. So we will demand all other property. Well, I''m a little uncomfortable separating the three of us, but let''s compromise."


    "What a fool!


    When Opal grinned, the Countess revealed her anger, not Keymont.


    The ball is no longer the stage for the Opals, and the orchestra has stopped playing.


    Opal felt sorry for the organizers, the Viscounts of Cloisel, but the couple looked rather amused by the unexpected.


    "Compromise? Don''t be ridiculous. Why do I have to give my fortune to those lowly women?"


    "�� then stop stopping the locomotive carrying the ore at the mining station. So take the ore out by carriage as it used to be"


    "Don''t say anything unsolicited! Something that can do that!


    "I can. I''m the co-owner of that railroad company."


    "Become!?


    "What''s wrong with you!


    Contrary to the sober opal, Keymont is causing more and more haste and anger.


    And the Countess screamed and stared at Opal.


    Not only has Opal met nostalgic faces in the last fifteen days, but he has also met the owners of a railway company passing near the Aion mine.


    The manager was indebted with other investments and was happy to welcome me as a co-owner when Opal offered financial assistance.


    The railway company itself is in black, so it should also be revenue for Opal in the long run.


    Earlier words, by the way, are a threat and I do not intend to carry them out.


    I had no intention of annoying the people who work in the mines and the various places that accompany them.


    But Keymont won''t take that feeling backwards.


    "You can also freeze Sir Keymont''s other assets, but they belong to your children, so you don''t want to get your hands on them if you can,"


    "Then it''s ridiculous! Do you have proof that those are my children!? I''ve said a lot about the upset earlier, but you may not have even met me and that woman. Why would you say that in the first place?


    "Yes! How rude of you!


    You''ve calmed down as we speak, and Keymont''s attitude was getting high again.


    Likewise, the Lady summons Kinkin.


    Still, Opal continued with a smile on his face.


    "As for them, I made them look into the time. And I''ve also been able to take testimony from former colleagues at the mansion where I worked. If you look at the children again, you will see that they are your children with one eye. Something very similar. And I''m their agent. Because they''re too weak to stand up to you."


    "But those children are nonexistent. They don''t have inheritance rules."


    "It doesn''t matter whether there is a statute or not. You are recklessly trying to take away the future of the young girls and even the future of the children who are born. So I''m powerless to take what you already have for them. Come on, talk to my deputy from here on out. �� Oh, you mean the deputy."


    Opal chuckled and looked straight at Keymont.


    Without further objection, the Countess is holding her forehead with a handkerchief and closing her eyes.


    "You''re the one who loses everything, loses some, or chooses. We don''t have that much time, but the answer is simple, right?


    "What a woman! You rascal!


    Opal didn''t care what they called him now.


    I understand that the people here are Keymont''s losers.


    That''s why Opal gently tilted his neck and smiled, but the person who suddenly showed up suddenly beat Keymont down.


    A scream rises from the women, and the Lady falls.


    "I ask you to stop insulting my wife"


    "Claude......"


    "... the wife?


    When he heard the surprised Opal grunt, the surroundings stood colored and Keymont looked up flashly with his hands on the floor.


    The Viscounts of Croisel seem excited that Claude - Marquis Roussel - has arrived.


    Speaking of which, Opal recalled that this invitation to the ball had also reached Claude.


    "Hey, what the hell, Marquis Roussel can''t be this young. You returned home to meet your mistress?


    "Now you can hit me for real"


    Claude shook his fist up again to Keymont, who was evil as he stood up.


    Keymont sits up as a vic and Opal goes into a stop.


    "Stop, Claude. I''d like to introduce you to Viscount and Lady Croisel."


    "Oh, yeah"


    Relaxed by Claude, who immediately agreed, Opal turned his attention to the organizers, the Viscounts of Cloisel.


    Then the couple entered through the people, where Keymont''s fury echoed.


    "Marquis or whatever, but it''s true this man hit me! I''ll sue you! There''s no way this woman can be allowed to do anything illegal like try to take my property too! We''ll both be tried by the lawyers!


    "You better worry about your mother than that."


    At that moment, the Countess, who was being embraced by the woman around her, opened her eyes slightly.


    But Keymont just turned a blind eye.


    It is true that the Countess is famous for fainting quickly, but as a son, she seems thin.


    Nevertheless, the beginning of it all was Opal, and I wondered how I could make amends to Mr. and Mrs. Croisel, the organizers of the ball, which has been completely interrupted.


    The plan was to let Keymont know how despicable he was, and Beth and the others were only going to collect child support until they recovered.


    Of course, he had his hands in order not to touch the law, and he didn''t even have to take the hand of his uncle, the royal court''s legal officer.


    Claude, who beat me more than that, will be okay, returns a grin of impatience.


    "It''s too late to regret it! There are so many witnesses out there, you can''t get away with it!


    "That''s right. I''ll testify, too! I knew you were evil. You insulted my Count and Jeb! We must also pursue the responsibility of your father, Count Holloway!


    More than Keymont, the party, the Lady snorts and curls.


    Just one last word, Opal reacted.


    "My father wouldn''t matter, would he?


    "No, it doesn''t matter. You lost your mother early, so I''ve seen it a lot, but I can''t stand it anymore. Your father, Count Holloway, spent all his money trying to educate his children. I heard even your brother dropped out of college. Pity. Anyway, it''s the parents'' fault for the child''s untimeness."


    Opal protested why he was even coming out here to his brother, and thought of the force in Claude''s arm, which was turned to his hips.


    Claude usually makes me like him stop, so I guess there''s a reason.


    Again wondering why Claude was here in the first place, Opal stared.


    That shouldn''t be the only reason I''m here to pick up Opal.


    "Hey, are you listening? I can''t believe I can''t even listen to people satisfied."


    "I hear about Opal properly. Me too, of course. Madame thinks it''s up to the parents to keep the children alive, right?


    "Yeah, you''re right."


    "So how do you take responsibility for your son''s untimeness?


    "My son is the victim. I was set in the trap of the humble women."


    Keymont is nizzling next to the lady who hums her nose.


    The figure was like an evil child doing evil out of the shadow of his mother''s skirt, very unlikely in his mid-thirties.


    "Regardless of what the adolescent youth say, it''s too crude for a man to say anything past thirty. And how many times does that leave you with a lack of memory and judgment, in short, a fool who can''t even discipline himself?"


    "What!?


    "What the hell!?


    Keymont and the Countess are suddenly annoyed by Claude, who argued on behalf of Opal, who is frightened and speechless.


    Even before those two, Claude whispered calmly and pale.


    "Sir Keemont, you have an arrest warrant."

 51 21. Arrest warrant

    Except someone leaked a "well" voice, which was surprisingly quiet and filled the wide venue with silence.


    But a moment later, the louder the laughter the more deaf.


    "It was quite an interesting pastime, Sir Roussell. No...... are you really the Marquis Roussel?


    The words of Keymont, laughing, turned into questions, and the people around them also looked at Opal for answers again.


    Exactly when you come out with an arrest warrant, I guess everyone can''t believe it in Russia.


    Opal also did not know how about the arrest warrant, but this question was clearly answered.


    "Yeah, of course. - Viscount Cloisel, ma''am, I''m late to introduce you, but this is my husband, Lucell Marquis Claude Fred."


    Opal introduced Claude to the Viscounts Croiselle and his wife, trying to make a firm apology and atonement later for the noise they had caused at the ball.


    Then Claude also continues.


    "Nice to meet you, Viscount Cloisel, Viscountess. I apologize for the invitation but didn''t reply and suddenly pushed me like this. Let me apologize for making another scene."


    "Marquis Roussel, it''s a pleasure to meet you -"


    "You can say anything! No one here knows the real Marquis Roussel! What''s an arrest warrant? Don''t be ridiculous!


    Viscount Croisel had responded with a smile in this situation as well, but the frustrated Keymont blocked it there.


    It''s rude to just interrupt in the middle of a greeting, but it''s also quite rude to be calling Opal a liar.


    And yet the Countess, usually annoyed by courtesy, does not scold her son either.


    "Oh, yeah! What the hell is this? Why is anyone letting those disrespectful people like you!? Viscount Croisel and everyone else are crazy! I will never forgive you all for being insulted like this!


    With the Countess''s tall voice, who seems to have completely forgotten to be polite, those who watched in silence what had been accomplished also begin to bother.


    Claude told her to remain calm even as everyone focused on the next development.


    "Some of the thieves who had recently appeared here near Wang Du were caught today. A statement from them found Sir Keemont to be one of them. So an arrest warrant has just been issued."


    "Ugh, it''s a lie..."


    "All arrest warrants have been issued by His Majesty''s [35546;] because the thief is only a young man of his identity. Cops are waiting outside this venue to detain Sir Keymont again. I was there to get Sir Keymont out of here so he wouldn''t bother everyone, but you failed."


    Everyone was staring at Claude with incredible thoughts to flatter his shoulders.


    The venue is once again engulfed in silence and only Keymont''s rough breath can be heard.


    The Countess is so bloodthirsty that she may be passing out standing that she doesn''t make it slight, and Keymont doesn''t even utter a word of objection.


    "Come on, Sir Keymont. Keep going outside."


    Claude''s words I was about to say were broken.


    Keymont escaped.


    He rambles the woman who was around him and runs out toward the outside.


    The scream and the flashing opal turned back to me and followed Keymont''s whereabouts with his eyes, and Claude and several men had already followed him.


    And seize it in front of the door.


    "Let go, impudent! I''m Jeb Keemont from Count Keemont''s house!


    The men surrounding Keymont, who summon and ramble, were nothing less than Keymont.


    Besides, he even joins Viscount Croisel.


    Keymont was seduced as everyone watched in surprise, and Claude slowly returned.


    "Claude?"


    "I''ll explain later."


    "Yeah, please"


    If Claude seems sorry, I can''t ask questions on this occasion.


    Claude smiled thankfully at such an opal, then turned to the Countess.


    The Countess stared relieved at the door to which her son, Keymont, had been drawn, turning into a phase of anger the moment she noticed the claude in front of her.


    "That child... that child is innocent. You''ve decided to be innocent! Is that you? You fell for that girl! My husband will sue you both!


    "... I have done nothing. Instead, I couldn''t do anything. But there must have been more you could have done."


    "What the hell are you talking about!?


    "Is it the responsibility of the parents not to end the child? But what they were doing is a crime, not an end in the end, etc. Because a few months ago he was threatening people who would go down the road imitating thieves who vandalized the streets and taking away the hardware. How mournful and angry His Majesty is to know that such criminals were the ones of identity..."


    "Oh no..."


    "From now on, I want you to think more about the unfortunate victims than about yourself or your son. Okay, excuse me."


    Claude was calm to the end against the Countess, who summoned to anger.


    But Claude is very angry.


    Opal was aware of that, but didn''t say anything, and continued the unobstructed conversation until he finished greeting the Viscounts of Cloisel and boarded the carriage.


    And when we were alone in the car, Opal cut it out.


    "Come on, Naja left in another carriage, and now we''re alone. I''ll ask you anything."


    "You needed an explanation tonight."


    "That''ll be fine later. But I want you to tell me something if it will cure that anger at all. If there''s anything I can do, I want you to tell me."


    I''m more concerned about the cause of Claude''s anger, which is a lot to worry about, but rarely angry.


    Too many things happen tonight to be predictable.


    Claude suddenly hugged Opal as he put his feelings seriously into words in a dimly lit car alone.


    Its power is stronger than ever.


    "Claude?"


    "Sorry, Opal"


    "Huh?"


    "I regret being told bad about Opal. I''m sorry I got in the way of Opal''s plan. I''m pissed that I''ve ever been rustling scum like Keymont. I feel sorry for myself for not having a great deal of power in gaining the status of Marquis. I''m so sorry, Opal."


    Claude''s anger was for Opal and his victims.


    Claude has been gentle and warm for a long time.


    Opal held Claude back and exhaled relieved.


    "Thank you, Claude. But I''m fine. I don''t care what people say to me. Sir Keymont has served his purpose. I just wanted everyone to know how irresponsibly he''s been tormenting the women, but worse than that... it was scum."


    I couldn''t find a word to describe Keymont, and Opal borrowed Claude''s.


    As a lady, Claude chuckles.


    "Besides, maybe tonight will reduce the prejudice against the women in the pitiful situation a little bit? I hope the victims of the thieves are rescued at all..."


    "Fortunately, they hardly hurt the victim. Although the hardware was stolen, it will be well paid by the Keymonts. Combine the compensation. They left the stolen goods in the mansion. That was the proof...... They didn''t aim to be hardware, but to enjoy the thrill and to enjoy watching the victim frighten."


    "I knew there was no saving scumbag."


    Now to be clear, Opal left his head on Claude''s shoulder.


    "Hey, Claude."


    "Yeah?"


    "It''s a lie that Claude doesn''t have a lot of power. I''m fine with one person, but Claude is so happy to be here to help, I''m so happy and empowered. And it was so refreshing when you hit Sir Keymont."


    "I''m relieved to hear that. I moved in anger, but I was terrified inside about what I''d do if they didn''t like me to be a riot."


    You''re serious, Opal looked up at Claude.


    Claude always looks confident, but now he looks a little unreliable.


    "... I''m not the only one. There must be a lot of people saved by Claude. Something that just makes Claude strong for me. Because don''t let Claude carry it all alone. You promised, right? He wants us to live together. I''ll carry Claude''s baggage with me. That''s why I want you to rely more on me."


    Claude, who hasn''t changed for a long time, hasn''t changed to the point where he tries to hold anything alone.


    Even though Opal always helps me when I''m in trouble, I don''t rely on people if I''m in trouble.


    I can''t change it right away. But I hope Opal can help me out a little bit.


    "... thanks, Opal"


    A low, gentle voice touches Opal''s ear, who once again deposited his head on Claude''s shoulder.


    That tickled me so much that Opal looked up all the time in the blindfold and gave me a mean grin.


    "- So after this, I''m going to ask you to explain exactly what happened tonight."


    "Coming up?"


    "The night is not yet over."


    "That''s very meaningful."


    Claude also deliberately answered with a mean grin.


    From then on, the two continued to speak as lightly as they used to do until they got to the mansion.

 52 22. Description

    Upon entering the study, Opal returned to the mansion and received alcohol from Claude and sat on the couch.


    There''s so much going on tonight, I feel more like alcohol than tea.


    Claude lowers his back across from Opal when he pours his own alcohol too.


    "I don''t know what to start with..."


    "You don''t have to worry about it. I want answers because I ask what I want to know. If you can''t, tell him so?


    "Okay."


    If it''s true, I guess I''d rather hear the explanation in an orderly fashion, but Opal also had too much to know and was confused.


    Anyway, I''d rather know the results than the process.


    "Did you know about Sir Keemont from the beginning?


    "No, I just found out today. So Opal rushed to the ball because he knew he was going to be there."


    "You were... So, what about the thief? Does that mean the thief is the son of a nobleman?


    "I''ve been suspected of being a young man in my position since the beginning. I found out from the sightings that the clothes, guns, etc. were expensive, even if they were covered. However, the investigation was proceeding with caution because of this. It was a mistake after the arrest. It''s gonna matter, isn''t it?


    "I know you didn''t let me leak the information. Still, why is Claude involved in this?


    "Is it going to be?


    Claude''s light answer turns Opal''s expression into something suspicious.


    I thought you were making fun of me or you couldn''t talk to me, but apparently not.


    Seeing such an opal, Claude explained with a laugh.


    "It''s true. I was gathering information about the thief on another matter. So I recently got to know a lawyer who''s been investigating a thief who''s making a scene in the streets. So we decided to work together by providing each other with information."


    "What''s the other thing?


    "I can''t tell you that yet"


    "Okay."


    For Opal, I was more worried about what might be more dangerous than Claude having a secret.


    But I am deliberately dissatisfied with the matter without touching it anymore.


    "So what did you say about going to the Kingdom of Soci��t�� lightly? I had some errands from the beginning. If it hadn''t been for Beth, I''d have left you alone in a country I wouldn''t be used to."


    "I won''t let that happen. I''m not the one who''s coming to this country, but someone else. Back then, I was watching Opal from McCloud asking about an example woman, and I decided to come to this country."


    "Me, you''re dancing around on Claude''s palm. Even tonight, I tried my best to prepare and root down, but they took it all to Keymont''s arrest... so what happens to his fortune? What about the kids'' alimony?


    The shock of Keymont''s arrest had inadvertently caused the property of sinners to be often confiscated.


    Claude smiled to reassure Opal, who regretted that he should have gone through the process more forcefully if this had happened.


    "That''s okay. Because Keymont''s property will be confiscated, but with due process, it should be admitted"


    "I hope so... I wonder what punishment the Keymonts will take"


    "As I said earlier, fortunately, there are few injuries. Since it is also only for those who are slightly injured, the only damage of substance would be the hardware. I think they will be released soon because they will also be returned with compensation"


    "Yeah? So, um... the bastards will be out soon? And how many of those same bastards? Even though it''s only a social nuisance? That''s a slack on the part of the Justice Department. I have to protest my uncle."


    Opal seemed angry but avoided the word "scumbag" this time.


    Still, Claude laughed unexpectedly at the unforgiving words.


    "That''s not funny, Claude."


    "Yeah, you are. But since their property will be confiscated, they''ll have to rely on their parents and brothers for their lives in the future, and they''ll all know by tomorrow, so I guess it''s hard to get back into the social world."


    "I wonder why it wouldn''t be the idea of working on your own and earning a living, and can''t you really go back to the social world? The victims are the general public, right?


    Many unjustly discriminate against non-aristocrats, as Keymont despised Beth and the others.


    In the end it was Opal who thought he would forgive the Keymonts, but he fuzzily remembered about the ball tonight.


    "Speaking of which, it looks like the atmosphere was different tonight than usual. There was no perseverance, and everyone listened to my impudence. Most importantly, the Viscounts of Cloisel were very nice people. Well, except for a pair."


    Eight years ago, many men would have taken more dignified sides of Keymont.


    Of course, there were many who seemed unchanged, but some of the aristocrats who were there accepted Opal without prejudice and were able to talk to each other equally without a hedge of men and women.


    Claude nodded as he affirmed the idea of such an opal.


    "Viscount Croisel seems to be advanced, so I guess we have people with the same idea. Many people are not tough and young to host nightclubs to that. But it''s not as loud as frowning, so unmarried women can safely participate."


    "You''ve been away from the social world for a while, but you''ve changed a lot. More like I was biased against the social world myself and didn''t try to find out. Everybody''s not like Keymont or the Countess."


    Opal remained trapped in unpleasant memories until eight years ago, when he had decided that the same was true of those he met anew.


    I reflected when I realized I was the one who hated me.


    (You don''t want to be friends with such a stubborn, victorious, disgusting person...)


    sighed so deeply Opal felt his gaze and raised his face.


    Then Claude looks at it with a grin.


    "What''s wrong?


    "Opal is adorable. So cute."


    "Oh, that''s Claude''s assumption! Plus it''s gonna be twenty-eight, and there''s no way she''s cute!


    "Really?


    "Yes!


    Claude''s words were embarrassing, though delightful, and Opal finally turned that way.


    I am aware that these places are not cute.


    Opal, who was about to be depressed as to why he couldn''t be more honest, was annoyed there.


    "That one tonight... Roana''s pulling, isn''t she?


    "Is that it?"


    "My rebellion against Sir Keemont."


    "Oh...... You regret that?


    "I have no regrets. Instead, I think what I did in the arrest play is sumptuous. But isn''t that apart from this? You wouldn''t want to be friends with someone who''s always gonna cause a commotion, would you? I''d rather keep my distance."


    I would also be angry if they made a scene at my own parents'' ball.


    Even if Viscount Croisel has an understanding, we''ll go to a proper apology tomorrow.


    Opal decided to be prepared, saying that his face was hard to match but he had to wear only the scuffle.


    "It''s okay. Opal and Miss Roana will make friends."


    Claude assures Opal that this is what he was thinking.


    The word somehow stabbed Opal in the chest.


    "... do you know Mr. Roana?


    "No, I don''t."


    "Then how do you know?


    "Because I don''t think the person Opal wanted to be friends with would stick to such a boring thing"


    Opal secretly appeased when he found out that the two of them didn''t know each other.


    I don''t need to be jealous, but my heart won''t listen to me.


    I''m sure I''ll keep repeating myself every time I meet an attractive woman.


    Still, you can never leave your precious Claude.


    "Thank you, Claude"


    "... yeah"


    Opal turned his full grin on Claude, who gave him a kind word.


    I don''t realize how attractive that smile is to Claude.


    On the contrary, I changed the subject slightly.


    "By the way... did you know Viscount Cloisel?


    "I knew your name, but this is the first day I''ve seen you. Why?"


    "No, I introduced you on that occasion, but if you already knew me, I thought you were a little dumb."


    "Sure, that could be a little weird"


    Opal and Claude laughed imagining such a scene as a sarcastic painting.


    Then they stood up when they put the glass down, holding hands and slowly headed into the bedroom.

 53 23. Newspaper

    The incident at the Viscount Croisel''s Ball had already spread throughout the country the following morning.


    Surprisingly, it was featured heavily in popular paper.


    "Isn''t it too soon to be an article about how much anything is? I wonder who leaked it..."


    Opal put the newspaper on the table and whined.


    The content of the article is quite sensationally written here that the identity of the thieves who had been plaguing the alley lately were the sons of the nobles.


    I''m pretty sure it''s a big case, but what bothered Opal was the content of the article was pretty detailed.


    On top of what happened at the ball, to the exact line Claude said, it even says what Opal doesn''t know - what''s inside the Justice Department.


    "Literacy rates have risen in recent times, and newspapers are becoming civic entertainment. I guess the Department of Justice also thought of accurate information if they were going to find out anyway. The thieves, the enemies of the citizens, are noble bonkers...... no, because they buy quite a bit of disgust that they were from upstream society. Even though citizens'' dissatisfaction with nobility has been solicited lately, I have trouble with this becoming a spark and burning heavily. That''s why I want to show you that the Justice Department and the righteous nobles have defeated the evil nobles."


    "I think it would be great for all of the people to have equal rights. But too much haste may create distortion somewhere. But lately things have been going too fast, and sometimes I get scared."


    "Right. This country, the kingdom of Tysey and the rest of us are changing dramatically now. Blurry doesn''t keep up with changing times in no time, and they leave it behind"


    Claude said, taking up the newspaper on the table.


    And when it opens, it points to an article.


    "More than that, I''m pissed at this article. Who is it, the one who wrote this? Alan Malone or something, are you kidding me?


    Claude is unusual and irritating.


    Opal was surprised to drop his gaze when he was all distracted by the Keymonts'' article, but wondered if anything else was written that mattered.


    Quickly grab the newspaper and glance at the article.


    "What, this..."


    Opal glanced as he followed the letters with his fingers.


    Not only did the article detail last night''s arrest play, but even Opal''s rebuttal of Keymont.


    The headline is'' On the side of the weak woman! Opal Holloway, former Duchess McCloud! ''.


    "How rude of you to have the wrong name!


    "Oh, speaking of which, you''re wrong"


    "I am the Marquise Opal Fred Roussell. We have to protest so that we can put the corrections on immediately!


    Claude erupted as Opal angrily searched for a newspaper contact.


    Hearing that laugh, Opal looks up.


    "Why are you laughing? Claude was mad, too."


    "What I was angry about was the content of the article. This reporter praises Opal. That''s good. Because it''s the truth. But at the end of the day," I''d love to be near you. "


    "I think it''s just a light-hearted tightening, but if you don''t like Claude, I''ll protest. I''m not interested in anything other than Claude."


    "No, that''s not what I meant"


    "So, what do you mean? I''m sure this reporter doesn''t know I remarried. As a reporter, I don''t have enough coverage."


    Opal frowned when he found the address of the newspaper.


    Not that far from here, but I don''t have time after this because I''m visiting the Viscount Cloisel house.


    "I wonder if I''ll have some time in the afternoon..."


    "Are you seriously going to go protest? You''re gonna make a fuss."


    "What is already in the noise. More than that, I was going to ask for a donation with the protest. If you get a lot of press on that, it''s going to be not only newspapers, it''s going to be a publicity for the organization, right? Besides, there could be more donations from other companies and individuals, and I don''t have a hand in not doing it."


    When Opal said intentionally, Claude erupted again.


    I really don''t think you''ll get bored with Opal.


    Whatever the headlines and closing touches, here''s what the article was about.


    "Opal Holloway took the means to have his property transferred from Keymont as alimony to save the women and their children who Jeb Keymont deceived and improvised irresponsibly.


    And the evil was majestically disputed and hunted down at the Viscount Cloisel ball.


    She has been ceded enormous fortunes upon divorce from the Duke of McCloud, using it as a starting point to increase her assets and restore them for disadvantaged people.


    He set up a protection group, with particular emphasis on the protection and activism of women, and began his activities to reach out to the King''s capital as well as to the provinces''.


    I guess the region made predictions because Opal went out to the city of Novoli.


    In fact, Opal is investing in the establishment of local city charities.


    Claude felt guilty wondering if it would have been nice to take her halfway down the road to the kingdom of Tysey as well.


    "Claude, what''s wrong? I thought you were supposed to be a lady?


    "No way. No, I''m not."


    Opal inquired when he suddenly noticed Claude, who had laughed earlier but had become a true face.


    There''s so much I want to do, but first I want to take care of Claude.


    That feeling has not changed since I received the proposal.


    While I was in this country, and Opal worried I was a little too anxious, Claude''s answer was unexpected.


    "Opal is trying so hard to help the needy in this country, he was wondering if I could take him to the kingdom of Tysey at my convenience. ''Cause Opal is so good right now."


    "That''s right. I''ve only solved a few problems lately. It makes me happy."


    "Trouble?"


    "Yeah. I''ve been trying to figure out how to get a lot of people - if possible, people in need to know about protective facilities and charities. Because the Wang capital is good, but it is still not known to be a region. It turns out that even a city as big as the city of Novoli is not at all. But maybe this time it''s been covered in the paper, and it''s going to change a little bit? If there''s more endorsements, there''s nothing to say."


    "Sure..."


    "Besides, the people in this country aren''t the only ones I want to help. Same goes for the kingdom of Tysey. That country was developing so much more than this one, but the consciousness of the people in society doesn''t seem so different, and there are still people in the region who haven''t recovered from the plague and civil unrest, right? This country is where I was born and raised, and I know the situation and there are still a few collaborators, so it doesn''t matter if I''m not on it. Now I''m going to help the people of the kingdom of Tysey."


    Claude looked relieved when Opal declared his chest up.


    Then I have a full smile.


    As soon as he did, Opal''s heart made a lot of noise, and from there he started hitting the early bell from time to time.


    "Thank you, Opal"


    "Duh, you''re welcome? Oh, uh, I need to get ready to go out!


    "Right. If it''s too late, you''ll be late for the newspaper."


    "It is! See you later!


    In the end, Opal fled the scene for the first time only as an evacuation.


    Even though we''re getting married and it''s almost another month, I still get to Claude''s little tricks and words.


    When Opal entered the room and exhaled loudly, he managed to calm his feelings as he voiced and confirmed what needed to be done today.

 54 24. Reporters

    Apologizing to the Viscounts of Croisel for their rudeness last night, they allowed us both to laugh and not care.


    Then Opal, who talked about the current state of society and other things and was able to forge a new friendship with Roana, the Viscount Lady, left the Viscount Cloiselle family satisfactorily.


    We''re going to the newspaper with Claude.


    "I wish there was a reporter who wrote that article..."


    "Well, there''s going to be an editor without a reporter"


    Although I said something strong to Claude in the morning, for Opal the newspaper is a little nervous in an unknown place.


    But Claude answered Opal''s concern lightly, looking as relaxed as usual.


    Seeing how it goes makes me think of Opal.


    "No way, you''re involved in running a newspaper?


    "No, I''m friends with the manager, but I''m not in management."


    "In the kingdom of Tysey?


    "I guess I own one company"


    "... I didn''t know that"


    Opal weakened and left his back in his seat.


    This is true of this one, but it is very important politically to have the information.


    There was no way King Alessandro hadn''t gotten his hands on the newspaper.


    Of course, the King lacks credibility when he engages in management himself, so perhaps Claude owns it under his name as well.


    "You want me to make an inventory of my property and give it to you?


    "No. Every time, you just let me know if you need me."


    "Well, I will."


    I knew it, but Claude has become an adult man who doesn''t know Opal at all.


    If you think about it, we haven''t seen each other in eight years, and it hasn''t been six months.


    Not only in the last eight years, but I''ve only seen him during a long vacation since he went into the dormitory, so there were many aspects I didn''t know, naturally.


    It makes me shush when I say that I don''t care about this "other matter" either.


    If Claude hadn''t returned home in the first place, someone else would have been involved in the matter, but that person means someone who can really get into the social circle of the Kingdom of Socieux.


    "Neither Claude nor His Majesty King Alessandro can be alarmed."


    "What''s the matter suddenly?


    "But you''re not the enemy, are you?


    "For Opal, for this country"


    "... then I''ll miss you"


    "Thank you, ma''am"


    "You''re welcome, sir"


    Claude understood exactly what Opal was saying, but left each other ambiguous.


    Opal also understands that even if Claude has a secret, there is no lie.


    Just as we ended the conversation, the carriage arrived at the front of the newspaper.


    "You have a lot of people together. Some kids..."


    "I have a little job at the newspaper. Everyone wants a job.... a little allowance to be exact"


    "We''re always understaffed in man-testing, but we all want to get out of the city."


    "Isn''t that a question of image? I''m not saying everyone, but I think if I come to the city, I can fly a flag."


    "Speaking of which, I''ve heard that the proprietors here came out of the countryside to King''s Capital and were polishing their shoes at first. It''s like a sample of your birth."


    "I often say I learned how to run a business by polishing my shoes, not by school."


    "That''s amazing."


    Opal answered impressively and waited for Claude to get out of the carriage.


    And I''ll take Claude''s hand and get out of the carriage.


    He caught sight of those gathered in front of the newspaper as soon as possible, and successfully hid what was slightly frightening.


    Then he lowered his head gently with a smile on his face, as if to be those gathered at the ball, and went inside the newspaper.


    "Oh, Sir Fred. It''s rare that you''re here."


    "Hey, Editor. Long time no see. This is my wife Opal. Opal, this is Marc Poncero, editor."


    "Nice to meet you, Mr. Poncero"


    "Nice to meet you, Mrs. Fred. It''s really a good day to meet someone so beautiful."


    Claude, who entered the newspaper, greeted the guard man at the reception with a light hand up, and had come as far as the third floor with his unmistakable footsteps as he escorted Opal.


    And when he entered a room, the man in the deepest seat stood up and was called out.


    Apparently, he looks familiar, but he doesn''t know that Claude is Marquis Roussel.


    "I''m here today to see a reporter named Alan Malone, are you there?


    "Yeah, I''m here. Is that an article this morning? I won''t reveal my sources, but that would have been a great article, wouldn''t it? Sold to fly, just printed it earlier."


    The editor-in-chief proceeded with the conversation as he grinned.


    The fact that it''s on is probably due to the newspaper being printed more than I could have met Opal.


    "Alan just got back from the interview earlier. I hear you''ve come for new information on this morning''s article. I''m about to write it in, so please be brief. Hey, Alan! Alan!"


    "... hey, what is it ~. I''m busy right now!?


    Alan stood up momentarily knocking down the chair as soon as Opal and his eyes met, looking troubled from a desk stacked with a lot of paperwork and newspapers.


    Even within the noisy editorial section, the sound of the chair screaming.


    "Dear Opal!? Dear Opal!"


    "... is, yes?


    Twenty years old, a young man there runs up to Opal by sewing between a desk lined with narrow places.


    Opal accidentally lagged behind as he replied to the impending appearance, but the young man - Alan was blocked by Claude.


    I''m sorry, but stay away from my wife.


    "Huh? Oh, no, I''m sorry. Well, it''s good to see you, Master Opal..."


    "You know my wife? She doesn''t seem to know?


    Claude''s voice is harsh at all times.


    The atmosphere made me feel completely quiet in the editorial department.


    Even the editor doesn''t know what''s going on, he''s pompous and sees what''s going on.


    "It''s only natural that I don''t know because I - I''ve just admired Master Opal on my own for eight years now!


    Eight years ago?


    "Yes! My father serves the House of the Duke of McCloud, so I was able to see Master Opal several times too. And because of Opal, I was able to study and become a reporter. Thanks!


    Alan, who answers clearly as if against his superior officer, stands upright and immovable.


    Opal looked at Alan with his face out of the shadow of Claude, but I can''t remember.


    I did make arrangements for those working at the Duke of McCloud''s house and their families to be educated, but I still didn''t know because there were many of them.


    "So, what''s your father''s name?


    Alan grinned at Claude''s questioning, which was slightly irritating.


    "My father''s name is Cave. I don''t have a family name, so I named my favorite food."

 55 25. Coverage

    "Well! You were Cave''s son! I''m sorry I didn''t know."


    "Yes, no... I can''t help being like my mother. Even so, my mother died ten years ago, so I just hear that from people. My father used to say. If my mother were alive, I''d be more comfortable with your wife at the Duke''s house."


    "It was... But, Cave, you''ve done a great job on your own. I''m sorry I couldn''t thank you properly at the end, but did you get the thank-you letter safely?


    "Yes. My father was crying with gratitude. However, I regret that I was unable to write your reply. Even if you can read, you can''t write..."


    Upon hearing Cave''s name, the lord of the Duke of McCloud family, Opal stepped out from behind Joy Claude and held Alan''s hand.


    Cave is the only servant who was kind enough to treat Opal, who was isolated and helpless at the Duke''s house.


    He told me when it was'' I think it''s time to go out and work my son ''and arranged for the servants to be educated because of it.


    When Opal is happy with his nostalgic memories, there is Claude''s chilling voice.


    "Opal, I don''t mind memorabilia, but what''s the purpose of coming here?


    "Oh, yes, I did."


    "Chi, chi, wait a minute!


    Opal, who had completely forgotten his purpose, was prompted by Claude to seek correction of the article.


    But now the editor raises his voice in a hurry.


    "Is Master Opal that Opal!? Um, this one, last night, that Opal Holloway former Duchess McCloud!?


    "Exactly. I''d like to answer, but I''m a little wrong, so I''d like you to send me a correction article today, so I asked here."


    "Ho, real... Um, Opal Holloway, former Duchess McCloud..."


    "No, so..."


    "It''s real! Scoop!


    I didn''t listen to Opal, and if the editor screamed, the department boiled.


    Everyone takes their seats and tries to rush over to Opal, Claude''s harsh voice sounds.


    "Quiet!


    Not so loud, but everyone stopped moving perfectly.


    And when the department quiets down again, it keeps slowing down.


    "I appreciate you welcoming me, but if everyone moves together in this narrow room, someone gets hurt. Please calm down."


    "Shh, excuse me, Sir Fred. I''m so excited about it... you see, everybody get back in your seats"


    They''ve all calmed down to the pale Claude words that don''t make them feel angry.


    When the editor told me to get rid of him snugly, I honestly went back to my seat.


    But he''s worried, and he''s watching Opal all the time pretending to get back to work.


    "I''m sorry I disturbed you. I also read this morning''s newspaper with great interest. Especially as regards my disturbance last night, I appreciate what you wrote favorably."


    "Favor or nothing, because it''s a fact!


    "... I won''t ask you where you got the information from last night. I just want that article corrected because it''s not accurate."


    "What!?


    When Opal thanked him for the article, Alan answered with a glow on his face.


    But when I touched on the correction article, it was the editor-in-chief who surprised me, and Alan would look like that at first sight.


    Probably knew he was remarried.


    "What I want you to correct is my name. I remarried the Marquis of Rousseau in the Kingdom of Tysey, so I am Opal Fred, the Marquis of Rousseau."


    "Heh... Marquis Roussel?


    It was the editor-in-chief who reacted again.


    Even if Claude Fred knows, he doesn''t know about the Marquis Roussel.


    And even though Alan knew about the Marquis Roussel, he didn''t seem to know who he was.


    "Huh? This is better, Marquis Roussel? But the Marquis Roussel is a bumpy..."


    "Did you think it was Grandpa?


    Claude takes over the words of Alan who said it.


    Then Alan looked even more awkward and Claude erupted.


    "Hey, were you laying low about remarriage so Opal''s reputation wouldn''t hurt?


    "That''s the... yes"


    Alan nods at Claude''s allegations.


    Opal tilted his neck not sure.


    "After being separated from the Duke of McCloud and receiving compensation, the folks may not have good feelings when they remarry the rich old man."


    "Oh, I see"


    It didn''t matter to Opal about his reputation, but it would be better if it led to donations or support from charities.


    Realizing that, Opal smiled thankfully at Alan.


    "Thank you, Alan. You thought about charity."


    "Huh? No, the..."


    "But I''m not doing anything shameful, and I''m rather proud, so could you give me a corrective article?


    "... Yes"


    "No, no, no, wait a minute!


    When Opal and Alan talked, the editor''s voice broke in.


    In fact, let your body break in between you two, too.


    "Are you even dissatisfied?


    "No, I doubt it, not dissatisfaction! Are you saying Sir Fred is the Earl of Roussel!? of the kingdom of Tysey!?


    "Now thankfully, I have given you the Marquis."


    "I don''t care about the title at this time. What is Sir Fred''s relationship to the Roussel family?!?


    The editor grabbed the appropriate paper and pen from the nearby desk as he questioned.


    Those in the department thought, "I don''t care about the title," but I didn''t put it in my mouth and waited for Claude to respond.


    Claude laughs at Opal and then turns his gaze back to the editor.


    "I''ll tell you. However, you will be charged for the coverage"


    "Yeah, yeah. Well, we''ll pay you the right amount."


    "Then I''ll have ten times that"


    "Such an unscrupulous!


    "Oh, I think that''s all worth it. My husband, the Marquis Roussel, is a mysterious thing in the Kingdom of Socieux. So many rumors of a bumpy grandfather. And I finally showed up last night, but most people still don''t know that trait. So I''m sure it''s a big scoop."


    "Big Scoop......"


    When Opal, who understood Claude''s thoughts, added, the editor seemed attracted to his heart.


    That''s where Claude folds up.


    "Donate all the cost of covering me to the charity Opal founded. In the name of this newspaper."


    "... may I advertise that?


    "Of course. I''ll tell the president from me."


    "Please! Okay, let''s go to the separate room. Hey, Alan."


    "Yes!


    The editor made his way to the small room in the footsteps where he was likely to dance now.


    Opal and Claude also follow the editor-in-chief, and Alan hurries back to his desk to prepare a writing instrument.


    Then the interview didn''t take that long.


    But the next morning''s newspaper published a dramatic romance between Opal and Claude that shook people''s minds - especially those of women.

 56 26. Love Stories

    "That''s crazy. I just wanted to call for name correction and support for the organization..."


    You''ve accomplished your purpose.


    "That''s right... But what is this?" Ripped First Love! Childhood love crosses the ocean too! ''"


    "As for romance novels, isn''t that funny?


    Opal sued with the newspaper he had just finished reading in his hand, pointing to the headline in question.


    But Claude doesn''t seem to care, he''s floating.


    "As for the novel. Well, I''m glad the Duke of McCloud hasn''t become the bad guy."


    "... because it''s fundamental to not bother anyone."


    I can''t help but say this now.


    Opal squeaked his final thoughts on the sigh as he put the newspaper on the table.


    In response, Claude agrees as well.


    The content of the article focuses more on the episode leading up to their marriage than on Opal''s name, and more on who the Marquis Roussel is.


    The story of the first love of a courtier of the Earl of Holloway, an enormous fortune teller, and three sons of the poor Baron family.


    In what can be described as a different status, Claude pulls herself back for Opal''s happiness, where her friendship with the Duke of McCloud has been lifted.


    Half abandoned, Claude travels to the kingdom of Tysey in a state of confusion, to meet his grandfather, from which his birth begins.


    Opal, on the other hand, began activities to support women''s independence so that there were at least a few fewer women who felt like themselves.


    He also reached out to disadvantaged children, wishing people happiness and contributing greatly to charity.


    Claude then got a brilliant identity and fortune.


    But there are no loving opals. Vain days.


    He wants to connect at least a little, invest in the business of man-testing and get to know the Duke of McCloud.


    The Duke of McCloud knows the depth of love between the two of them and to pull himself back.


    And Opal and Claude patrolled again, and now it was only happily bound.


    "- It fits, but it''s not, this nonsense."


    "But, well, he''s taken up a lot about charities, too, okay?


    Claude is relaxing and drinking coffee, as opposed to blurry opal with his fingers tapped all over the table.


    Seeing that appearance, Opal gradually calmed down as well.


    "Yes, but... I have to write to the Duke of McCloud and apologize. Something I gave my name to on my own."


    "I''ll write that. ''Cause I told you."


    "So, can I ask you a favor?


    "Of course. Opal''s going to see her now, isn''t he?


    "Yeah, I''m gonna tell Beth I got a reply from my uncle that I''m okay"


    He pleaded with his uncle, Jonathan Kenzitt, a legal officer, for a partial waiver of confiscation because he needed alimony for his three children.


    Then my uncle finished the necessary processing in one day and replied to me.


    Of course, what was done so quickly was that Opal was prepared in advance.


    What was even more fortunate about this one was that the confiscation by the Justice Department no longer required Keymont''s acknowledgment and signature.


    "Shall I come with you?


    "Yeah, I''m fine. I''d ask for more escorts than last time, and acting together would be noticeable, wouldn''t it?


    "Opal stands out enough for one, doesn''t he?


    "Actually, we''re going to hide this time."


    "Yeah?"


    "It would be hard for Beth to start over with her life if she found out she was involved with me, wouldn''t it? So I''m going to go see him in disguise."


    "... but be careful and go"


    "Okay."


    Claude still wanted to say something, but apparently he reconsidered.


    With a smile and gentle words, Opal also replied with a smile.


    That afternoon.


    Opal went outside through the back entrance with Naja and went to Beth in a carriage rental arranged by her servant.


    The front is packed with reporters and a lot of people.


    The reporters asked for information about Keymont, new information such as the Marquis Roussel, and people could be just wild horses or something they wanted to meet Opal.


    Yet it seems that the women empathized with Opal''s way of life in this morning''s newspaper article, admired it, had a lot of respect and various emotions.


    "It''s too late to realize how wonderful Opal is by now. Master Opal has always been lovely."


    "Thank you, Naja"


    I just calmed down in the rental carriage and squeaked like Naja was obstinate.


    In addition to Naja, there are two escorts in the car.


    "If Beth doesn''t thank you for this, she won''t forgive you. But I''m not satisfied with the palm return..."


    Opal looked out the window, grinning bitterly at the bumping naja.


    Gradually, the view of the city changes and the buildings become blurred.


    Opal today owes Naja her regular clothes so she shouldn''t float that far around here either.


    "Okay, let''s go."


    "Yes!"


    For some reason Opal got off the carriage with Naja who was more intent than Opal.


    And just like last time, I go up the old stairs and knock on the door.


    "Hello, Beth. How are you feeling?


    "Ma''am..."


    While Beth was surprised, she slowly walked in through the door, and Naja continued to close the door.


    If Opal observed Beth standing stunned, her complexion was bad and her stomach was so big that she was likely to still give birth.


    "You''ll be tired of standing up, so why don''t we sit down?


    Beth didn''t try to stop Opal from opening the bedroom door with that voice.


    On the contrary, I honestly lower my back next to Opal.


    Opal was surprised Beth was completely quiet.


    "Is there somewhere that hurts? Tummy or hips? Or do you feel bad?


    "No......"


    Beth answered small and silenced herself.


    When Opal just sits next to him without speaking, he hears Beth''s sobbing voice.


    "Beth?"


    "Wow, I... scared..."


    "Right."


    You can''t be scared before giving birth.


    And he''s the only one.


    Now I wondered what happened to Beth''s family, but it would be wild to ask.


    "Hey, Beth. Why don''t you move to the facility I''m supporting, if you don''t mind? It''s inconvenient here even though you''re close to having a baby. You have a lot of experience over there, and you can count on it, right?


    "But..."


    "You don''t have to worry about money. Besides, I talked to Sir Keymont. They''re going to pay for the child''s maintenance."


    Opal suggested that we still can''t leave him here alone.


    Tell him not to worry about the money again because it is a source of hard work.


    Beth looked at Opal staring as she wiped her tears with her sleeves.


    "I learned in the paper that that person was arrested. You''re the father of this child!


    Beth, who screamed in a screaming voice, kept her eyes closed.

 57 27. Smile

    "Beth? Beth!?


    Worried for Beth, who had fallen into bed, Opal spoke out in haste.


    I think I heard you shouldn''t move it at times like this.


    Just don''t know what to do then, Naja came looking scared waiting in the next room.


    "I just lost my mind, so don''t worry so much. Probably because of the sudden excitement. You''re not feeling well when you''re pregnant."


    "I''m worried because I''m pregnant. Is your belly child okay? I''m breathing, but I can''t believe I''m unconscious..."


    Unlike the upsetting opal, Naja was only calm.


    Put your hand on your forehead, take a pulse with your wrist, and make a grown stomach.


    "Didn''t you get blood on your head? I don''t have that much tension in my stomach, and you''ll wake up soon. Oh, look..."


    Beth blinked with puffiness as Naja held Beth''s hands and rubbed them hard.


    And slowly open your eyes.


    "Wait, I''ll get you some water"


    Naja got up and went to the next room when she pounded Beth''s hand.


    In the meantime, Opal can''t do anything, just sit back and watch.


    I know we should talk about something, but I was scared if I lost my mind about it again.


    Opal has never had a pregnancy or childbirth experience, nor cared for a sick person.


    When my mother was in the hospital bed, she just sat beside me and read books and chatted, and that was almost twenty years ago, too.


    So I was relieved when Naja came back.


    "There''s no water in the water bottle. I had no choice but to bring you the fruit water your wife brought."


    Naja lowered her hips opposite Opal as she handed the glass to Beth.


    The bed seems to suffer as soon as possible.


    Beth was thirsty or exhaled deeply when she emptied the glass in no time.


    "Calm down? Well, let me tell you something, but you''re a good addition, aren''t you? Thanks to your wife, you don''t have to complain!


    "Naja, that will happen again..."


    Naja, who received a glass from Beth, scolded Beth in a tight tone.


    Opal went in to stop Beth because she was worried about her body, but Naja shook her head with a resolute look.


    "No, Master Opal is too kind. People like this, if you don''t say Gatsun, how much do you..."


    "No! I thank my wife!


    "Become -"


    Beth blocks Naja''s words, which she tried to recruit further.


    Pushed by the momentum, Naja clogged her voice.


    "I... I had a seriously terrible attitude towards my servant the whole time his wife was married to Master Hubert. But I didn''t doubt that I was doing the right thing to protect Stella from her reputable wife."


    "Well, I guess so."


    "We all tried to kick your wife out of the butler, Mr. Romit... and now we know how stupid that is. But at that time, I thought that was justice. That there''s no way justice can beat evil. When Stella was to be transferred from her mansion, she was angry with her wife, and she was pleased that justice had finally prevailed when her wife and Hubert were divorced."


    "Well, you''re incredibly congratulatory."


    "Naja"


    If talking would make you feel better, Opal was listening without pinching his mouth, but Naja couldn''t stand it.


    She hastily embarrassed Naja, but Beth grinned bitterly and nodded.


    "You''re absolutely right. I''m really stupid. Sir Keymont''s words were truly received because he was an irremediable fool. ''I never got married before because no matter what woman I met, my heart refused. But when I met you, I figured it out. I was expecting you. You''re the man of destiny,'' he said, ''and you''re a fool."


    Opal and Naja looked at each other when they heard Beth speaking in tears again.


    Keymont''s line stinks, but I couldn''t even laugh when I think of Beth, who remembers it word for word.


    "I believed in people I shouldn''t believe in and I didn''t believe in people I should believe in. So this is a natural reward. Mrs. Northam had laid me off, but I just didn''t have any trouble with my immediate life. Pay me. But I''m anxious about the future..."


    "Right. It''s not easy to use when you think about raising a child in your stomach. But don''t worry. As I said earlier, Sir Keemont gave me alimony. For one thing, I need to rest my body. Would that be a good place to feel safe?


    "But I don''t deserve your wife''s warmth! So please, give that money to the other two!


    "Oh, you knew..."


    "Yesterday, when I went shopping, I saw the headlines in the newspaper..."


    I''ve also learned about Keymont''s arrest, so that would be a shock.


    The other two are left to the director of the facility, and there are other inmates, so you''ll be confused, but if you''re alone in a room like this, you can''t help but lose your mind.


    Anyway, if we don''t get Beth out of this place, Opal got up.


    "Come on, I can''t help but turn around forever. Beth is your mother, so let''s move to a safe place for our belly child."


    "No, I''ll stay here. I have a wife."


    "Oh, already! You..."


    Naja tried to get annoyed by Beth, who refused so hard.


    But Opal smiled gently at Beth as he raised one hand and took control of Naja.


    "You know what, Beth? Would you stop being so stubborn about it? I''m pretty sure you''re stupid, but I''m still trying to make stupid choices again. I''m not thinking for you. I''m worried about my belly child. I''ll tell you what, Sir Keemont gave me alimony. It''s that belly child''s money. It''s not something you can say you don''t want on your own, and naturally, we''re going through the process to make sure it''s properly paid for by the trustee. Do you understand?


    To Opal''s spicy words, Beth blued.


    Opal worried that it was too much, but to his surprise Beth nodded honestly.


    "You''re right. Just a moment, would you mind waiting? Pack your bags."


    "All you have to do is use it right away, okay? You can have someone pack your bags."


    Beth laughed with a crying face as Opal answered as she clapped out.


    "Because I don''t have that much luggage. It''ll be over soon."


    "I''ll help."


    When Beth gets up, Naja also gets up and goes back to the next room.


    So Beth stopped and looked back.


    "I really sincerely thank your wife. This is how you reach out to me for salvation without abandoning me stupid..."


    "I don''t think you''re stupid right now."


    As Opal smiled and replied to the words of gratitude, Beth smiled shyly small.


    That was the first real smile Beth saw by Opal.

 58 28. Inspection

    "Marquise Roussel, you''re home again, aren''t you!?


    "Thank you, Marquise!


    "Be sure to come back again!


    "Marquis, your hometown is here!


    In a crowd of man-tested folks, Opal got into the carriage smiling and waving along with Claude.


    Take a short distance from here to the railway station, from where you switch to a locomotive and exit to the port.


    We are finally returning to the kingdom of Tysey.


    Opal, seated in his seat alongside Claude, exhaled relieved as the carriage ran out.


    Long after that newspaper article came out, Opal and Claude are welcome wherever they go.


    I was acting up to that expectation, but Opal seemed uncomfortable as he was fooling everyone.


    "Looks like we''re short of manpower."


    "Conversely, except for the lack of manpower, it''s going well."


    Opal, who safely delivered Beth to the facility in Wang capital, received Hubert''s visit the following morning.


    I''ve come from a series of reports to convey my apologies and gratitude to Beth.


    And Hubert reported to me that after talking to Miss Marienne and her parents, Countess Ruffon, she had decided to drop off her engagement.


    It seems that Stella also decided to take this opportunity to live in a land quite far from the king''s capital.


    I had something to say, but I just stopped to listen to Opal say it wasn''t about mouthing, and then the three of us discussed man-testing.


    And now Opal and Claude were just finishing up their man-test inspection.


    Land has been developing well without problems with ore reserves for a long time, but demand has not kept up with supply - it has been reported that it is plagued by shortages of manpower.


    Of course there are other fine issues, but we have to clean them up one by one, including them.


    But as a way to crack down on the shortage of manpower, Opal already had one proposal.


    "Did you make the arrangements?


    "Yeah. That''s why I went out of my way to accompany Alan. Alan doesn''t want to write lying articles."


    "An article of lies..."


    "As for my name, I can''t believe I didn''t write a lie, I just didn''t write the truth."


    "Things are like that."


    Opal is also the Marquis of Roussel, but also the former Duchess of McCloud.


    Neither is a mistake, so sometimes I would only name the higher ranked one, or I would always name both.


    I just don''t feel like naming Hubert''s title after all, I''m just making it Claude''s.


    "Don''t you have to look at the draft?


    "Yeah, I''m fine. Although Alan''s articles are sometimes a little exaggerated, they are very easy to read and understand. If Alan writes badly about his job at Man Test, you mean he got the impression that he was right. That''s something we didn''t realize, and I want to read it."


    "But what if that doesn''t bring together the key workers?


    "Then you just have to try to get together. Until then, we''ll have to keep production down, won''t we?... So this is my idea, and if Claude, your father, or the Duke of McCloud disagree, I''ll obey?


    "That''s a fight in the back."


    That''s what Claude laughed at.


    In order to eliminate the shortage of manpower in man-testing, we decided to advertise staff recruitment in the newspaper that is now the most popularly read.


    But it was Opal who came up with the proposal that it was actually better to get reporters to cover than just advertise.


    It can be a regular advertisement, but it''s easy to understand what kind of work an article would do, and the reader would be interested.


    He told Alan that he could do the interview with the miners so that they wouldn''t get in the way of their work either.


    Of course, Opal and Claude promised not only miners, but also people who work in man-testing to hear their grievances directly and try to improve them.


    "Because Claude keeps saying things backwards, I think you''re changing your opinion until yesterday and disagreeing"


    "I agree. Both Count Holloway and McCloud have delegated this matter. There are just so many different people in the world. So some people will take it badly about this one, so that doesn''t necessarily mean it won''t be shackled in the future."


    "I know. Until now, people have received so much malice that they don''t like it. That''s why you can stand up to malice, and you know the world isn''t all malicious."


    But with Opal on the table this time, it''s Opal who''s standing on the arrow when something happens.


    Opal, who somehow thought Claude was in a bad mood since he came to Mantest, smiled unexpectedly knowing what caused it.


    Because he''s become famous anyway, and he''s greatly promoted Opal as one of the managers of man-test land development, and decided to become an advertising tower himself, but he''s worried about it.


    But I didn''t disagree because you acknowledged the effect and Opal''s own opinion.


    "... If I wasn''t on the table and something went wrong with my man-test, it might be Claude standing on the arrow. It could be your father, it could be the Duke. Either way, we must all move to solve the problem."


    But with us and Opal...


    Claude, who was about to say, looked at Opal and looked at him that he was gone.


    Claude didn''t approve of Opal, the world didn''t.


    Opal made a smile while regretting that he had become a wounded look.


    "I think we''re going to hear a lot about this, because this is what women are saying. I heard that. I''m angry, and I think I''m going to regret it and cry, and I''m still going to stand up to it. That''s why I want Claude to stay with me then. Because if you tell me it''s okay as usual, it''s gonna be really okay."


    "Then I''ll take care of it. My specialty."


    Claude replied with a laugh, but those eyes were very serious.


    Opal held onto his hot chest and peered into its eyes without distracting.


    "Thank you, Claude"


    "I didn''t do anything."


    "He''s doing everything for me."


    Claude stared back at Opal and put his hands on those soft cheeks.


    - Getting kissed.


    The moment Opal tried to close his eyes feeling that way, he was picked on the cheek.


    "Hey!


    "Still, you''re an easy cheek to pick"


    "Oh, I don''t know what that means! It''s not easy to pick!


    Claude just laughs when he protests with all his hands.


    For some reason, Claude suddenly picks his cheek.


    "There you go. If you don''t laugh, the Marquise''s reputation will be ruined."


    "Marquise Roussel doesn''t care about her reputation."


    That being said, Opal stepped on Claude''s foot as much as he wanted.


    Opal says in a clear voice toward Claude, who groaned at the pain and frowned.


    "There you go. If you don''t laugh, Marquis Roussel''s reputation will be ruined."


    "Opal -"


    Claude was blocked by the sound of complaining and knocking on the carriage door.


    Opal answers with a glowing voice and the door opens.


    "Let''s make the reputation of the Marquis Roussel certain"


    "You think I hate mean losers?


    I don''t mind if I do.


    "I''m just kidding."


    The two got out of the carriage with a smile on their faces as they spoke lightly.


    He then walks into the special passenger car, waving at the people gathered at the station.


    It is not long from here to the port, so you will arrive in the kingdom of Tysey in the evening.


    "Now, are you ready to return to the kingdom of Tysey?


    "You don''t have to be ready."


    "Okay, let''s go."


    Nodding at the reliable Opal reply, Claude signaled the station manager to wait outside.


    Then the whistle sounds high and the seat starts to shake heavily and move.


    Opal smiled out the window with Claude and waved to the people who were dropping him off.

 59 29. Welcome

    By the time the ship arrived at the port of the kingdom of Tysey, the sun was setting over the mountains.


    Yet the port is busy with many people.


    "Is it also a festival in the harbor today? I can''t believe it''s already night and there''s so many people"


    "No, it''s not a festival, it''s a welcome."


    "Welcome?"


    Claude answered Naja''s query, looking down at the harbor from the deck and whining, but Opal tilted his neck when he heard it.


    I hadn''t noticed but wondered if anyone was also a celebrity, looking around for a moment.


    Opal, it''s our welcome.


    "Yes?"


    "You two are a lovely couple, and the kingdom of Tysey knows it!


    The last time I landed in the kingdom of Tysey to marry Claude, I was not given particular attention either.


    Opal had no idea that it was his welcome for that reason, and it took a while to understand what it meant.


    But Naja just nods naturally and stretches her chest.


    Opal smiled at Naja like that and began to descend the talap.


    "Speaking of which, Claude was popular."


    "That''s why you don''t bother to gather around to see my face. We''re all looking for Opal."


    "Me? You mean I''m here to see Marquis Roussel''s bride?


    "We welcome Opal, a female businessman who hunts down women''s enemies and helps poor women."


    The faces of the gradually visible people are often of interest, but seem favorable.


    Even when the Opals go up to land, people are held back by the harbor guards and the escorts hired by Claude, and they can''t get very close.


    Still, he responded by waving at everyone with an outward smile he was completely familiar with.


    "We''ve got this, so you figured out our arrival?


    "I think so"


    Opal, who arrived at the station, saw the private train and solved the mystery of the welcome at that port.


    If you want to get back to King''s Capital quickly, it''s a railroad, but there''s no public service at this hour.


    "I see why everyone''s welcoming me. But what I don''t know is the speed of the information. Until now, in the social world of the kingdom of Tysey, I was a" mundane Opal Holloway "? It''s unnatural that you already know me to the public."


    Opal noticed after he put it in his mouth.


    And look at Claude''s grin and be sure.


    "You were manipulating information, weren''t you?


    "It''s not so much an operation. Until just a little while ago, the story of the social world would hardly have been conveyed to the public, would it? Even that newspaper has grown so many copies in the last year or so. That''s not until I put in a story about the social world. I guess that''s all they''re interested in."


    "So what did you do?


    Claude gave up when he saw Opal''s strong will not end the story with that alone.


    It''s not something I can''t tell you.


    "I was trying not to put the Opal thing in the newspapers, either in this country or in the Kingdom of Soci��t��. But I haven''t heard from you since this time, so I guess the story has come to pass. Well, you can''t hide it in that commotion."


    "So you knew about Alan?


    "No, it''s a coincidence."


    "Okay."


    I still had a lot to ask, but Opal gave up again.


    Opal himself doesn''t know what he wants to ask without being able to collate the information.


    I''ve just been convinced of this.


    Opal''s information in the social world of the kingdom of Tysey was old because it was controlled.


    But the power of being able to stand a door in a man''s mouth was immeasurable, and Opal once again stared at Claude sitting next to him.


    "Any other questions?


    "Claude''s - Marquis Roussel''s intel was down well, wasn''t it?


    "That''s just using everyone''s assumptions."


    "You''re manipulating it!


    "Stay!


    Angry Opal slapped Claude''s knee properly.


    Then a surprised Claude raises her voice.


    "Not enough for a liar."


    If Opal gets angry after all the way off his face, he can hear Claude laugh.


    In the end Opal laughed, as usual, and this topic ended.


    The next morning.


    Waking later than usual from the fatigue of the journey, Opal sighed in front of the cards and invitations asking for numerous visits.


    Claude is still asleep.


    I was slightly worried about whether I could handle it on my own, but in the end I decided to say no to everything about the visit.


    (May I visit the other person''s house who has just returned home? You want me to think about this one a little bit more)


    I''m pretty tired because I''ve always been surrounded by a lot of people here.


    When I was single, I went out every day to tea parties, concerts, nightclubs, etc., but I couldn''t believe that energy.


    It''s just that older women do that schedule during the season, too, so it''s simply a matter of Opal''s health.


    (Well, I guess it''s because I''m also mentally tired... Oh, I''d love to spend some time in the country relaxing......)


    Opal spent nearly seven years in the Duke of McCloud.


    Back then, I was struggling every day to figure out how to make life easier for the inhabitants and the territories richer.


    Social is an important job for Opal, but I still miss living in the country.


    (Though the Marquis de Roussel seems to be doing well, the soon-to-be-given Duke of Botzeri territory is lagging behind in modernization, so I''m sure it will be rewarding)


    Opal thought as he sorted the invitation into something to consider as absent.


    Since I heard Claude talk about the Duke of Botzelli territory, I''ve been looking into it in Opal, but if the information is correct, we need reform as soon as possible.


    (Though I haven''t networked with the social community yet... I don''t have any friends, but that''s something the territory should do as soon as possible, even if it can be later. I don''t know when the storm will come or when it will be a drought)


    I decided to return home unexpectedly, but I''m not worried about Beth anymore.


    I''m sure you''ll get the news that I''m due soon.


    Of course I don''t know what''s in childbirth, but everyone in the institution will help.


    You just have to slow down for a while after the birth and figure out what to do now.


    I heard that the other two, who had a Keymont child, each decided to live as a widow in a local city.


    If the child is an adult, the consolidated property can be inherited, but until then the trustee is to be given a degree of subsistence without difficulty.


    Opal stood up when he wrapped up the invitation.


    I get sick of writing invitations back and think about hiring a secretary.


    "You should consider that too."


    One shrugged Opal headed to the library desk.


    Plans for the future before I write back - plan to visit the Duke of Botzelli''s territory and talk to Claude when he wakes up.


    Opal''s body, thinking about going to the Duke''s territory, was weary and gone.


    On the contrary, Opal was motivated to open his notebook and start writing what he needed.

 60 30. Calling

    "Opal, do you have a minute?


    "Yeah, it''s okay."


    Opal, who was writing a letter in his room, put the pen down in answer to Claude, who came into the room.


    This way of saying Claude means we have important stories to talk about.


    Standing up, next to the bench where Claude sat, Opal also lowered his back.


    "I just received a call from Your Majesty"


    "You mean something happened?


    "Probably. I hope it''s not that important, but I think I''ll be home late. That''s why I can''t escort you to tonight''s night club."


    "Okay. I''ll be alone tonight."


    "Sorry."


    "I have nothing to apologize for. I''m used to the social world here, and I don''t care if I''m alone."


    The events in the Kingdom of Soci��t�� were still well communicated to the social community in this country, and the content of the invitation, which was only my in-laws prior to my return, varied and was so welcoming that it could be seen from the text.


    Still regret attending alone.


    Claude sighed if Opal answered with a grin hiding the feeling.


    "Opal is too dependable, don''t get lonely every now and then"


    "I am strong, hiding my feelings of loneliness. What we know which to prioritize"


    "I''m sorry. That was my fault."


    Claude immediately apologized when he heard Opal''s words, which he joked and answered.


    I wish I could be obstinate or sweet here, but it is quite a challenge for Opal.


    Thinking about what to give back, Claude suddenly kissed Opal and stood up.


    "... Huh?


    "Forget about my earlier self. I knew Opal was Opal."


    "Hey, what''s that!


    Because of the long period of childhood tampering like brothers and sisters, there''s usually nothing you can do about it to feel like a lover to each other.


    So all of a sudden, even when you''re kissed, your head even delays understanding.


    Leaving such an opal, Claude headed to the exit and turned in front of the door.


    "Well, I''ll be there."


    "Yeah, yeah. Go ahead."


    Claude smiled out gladly as Opal hurried up and returned the drop-off words.


    So I realized I should have dropped him off at the front door, but now there''s no time to chase him any further.


    Opal breathed out loudly as he sat in the bench again, staring at the closed door.


    "I''m still not used to it..."


    Not much for a month after we got married.


    We''ve spent a lot more time together, but usually there''s no sweet atmosphere between us, so I get confused when it comes to accidental occasions.


    But it also seems Claude enjoys it and somewhat regrets it.


    (I wonder if Claude doesn''t miss tonight in the first place... that''s not true)


    I guess my earlier self was the expression of Claude''s feelings.


    But even if we miss each other, we have a lot to do away with.


    Opal has a job that Claude doesn''t quite understand about the first socialization he''s had.


    Nevertheless, even if you didn''t tell me about Claude''s job description, I had somehow imagined it.


    The kingdom of Tysey survived the crisis of plague and civil war and is now richer than the kingdom of Socieux, but there are still anti-Kings - old princesses.


    Over the past few days, Opal had attended as many invited tea parties and nightclubs as possible.


    Make me laugh like I''m just interested there.


    Then the women would be happy to tell us all sorts of things, but many of the rumors were disturbing that they would not normally realise they would just listen.


    (Nevertheless, I wonder where the sources of funding for the anti-Kings...)


    I have funds for any activity.


    Even though there are aristocrats sneaking in behind us, where are they spreading that money from?


    In the four years since King Alessandro took the throne, he should have examined it so that he could not have hidden property or anything else.


    (... so Claude was looking into the thieves in the Kingdom of Socieux?


    The gold and jewellery allegedly taken by the thief amounts to a considerable sum.


    We managed to flush them down to the kingdom of Tysey, and we may have lost the rest in the territory of the Marquis of Thames - playing in the city of Novoli and elsewhere.


    It was also believed that Claude had embarked on an investigation, suspicious of being a source of funds for the anti-Kings because no gold items taken by Keymonts had been discovered for some time.


    (It''s just speculation, but this is a good fit, isn''t it?)


    Opal was convinced and satisfied with his thoughts in the carriage home.


    Probably asking Claude a question won''t answer it yet, but if it''s resolved, he''ll tell me.


    Looking forward to matching the answers then, Opal''s return to the mansion disappointed me.


    Claude sent me a rush letter and said I couldn''t get home for a while.


    "For a while, I wonder how long..."


    Not that I could get an answer match tonight, but Opal has been pretty disappointed.


    Tomorrow he had promised to discuss how to proceed with the reform of the Duke of Botzeri, which he had just given with the Duke.


    The Duke''s territory is stretched with many of the best land to grow cereals, but the inhabitants are apparently exhausted by imposing impossible heavy taxes because of the delays in modernization and also because they were a considerable source of funding during the civil unrest ahead.


    (And there must have been some mines...)


    It seems that the lead mine at the northernmost end of the mine continues to be finely mined, but given its impact on bodies such as dust, it would be better to close it because it is not profitable.


    I decided to go on an inspection soon, including all of them.


    From planning to execution, Opal can do everything by himself.


    I just wanted to accomplish it with someone - Claude.


    But Claude''s "for a while" doesn''t know how long, so Opal is the only way to go.


    "Fine. I can go ahead on my own. ''Cause that''s my specialty!


    Opal, who solidified his resolve, proclaimed himself highly in a room where no one was present.

 61 31. Traveling

    "Are you alone again tonight?


    "Yes, it is."


    Over the past few days, I have spoken to Opal, who is attending a night club by herself, as Erik ridiculed me when I approached him.


    Still, Opal answered politely, but Erik''s disrespectful attitude never stops.


    "Won''t you be vain? I attend nightclubs everywhere by myself every night. I guess Claude can''t even hang out."


    "... this night club is open for charitable purposes, but Baron Prado is here for what? With our donations, we can support children who have lost their parents to the plague and civil unrest, right? There are other nightclubs for charitable purposes, like every other night, you know?


    Smile and inquire, Erik blushed.


    But laugh quickly.


    "Why isn''t Claude with us? If we both attend, that''s all we can support, right?


    Some collects participation fees from attendees, most recently at night clubs for charitable purposes, etc.


    And the participation fee goes straight to the donation.


    I guess Erik is saying that.


    "Isn''t your brother Viscount Amadi with you? If you two attend, we''ll be able to assist you."


    "My brother is away from Wang Du for business..."


    Erik, who almost answered, seemed to realise the true meaning of the words Opal had been enquiring about because he disliked them.


    In short, Claude also said he was away from Wang Du for "use".


    Erik hasn''t changed at all.


    Even if it''s hard to grow in this short time, Opal thought that we should at least think about it a little more before we act.


    Seems more and more hated about the last time, but anger dazzles me.


    "Now, if you''ll excuse me,"


    Opal, who also greeted him politely, walked away from before Erik, who clogged his words.


    It''s a little early tonight, but I''m going to keep greeting the organizers and go home as well.


    Opal exhaled when he looked around the venue and found the organizer.


    To be honest, I don''t really like nightclubs and tea parties.


    But thanks to that newspaper article, there were more nightclubs for charitable purposes and so on, and Opal had become invited as a guest of honor and asked for a lot of advice.


    Of course that is not great, and Opal intends to cooperate as much as possible.


    It''s just that our duty to the people is neglected.


    Plant growth doesn''t wait for me to relax.


    So we were going to take a first-hand look at the current state of the territory as soon as possible and take the necessary measures.


    (There are a lot of improvement measures, as per the preliminary investigation)


    Opal sighed again as he rode home in the carriage.


    If it was true, Claude and I would have already gone to Duke''s Lands.


    I''ve waited awhile since, but Claude hasn''t heard from me.


    I don''t know if I am busy or not in that situation, so I am not angry but I am worried.


    But when Opal returned to the mansion, the butler gave him a single letter.


    It''s from Claude, Opal hurries to open it.


    "Oh..."


    Unfortunately, the letter seemed to prolong the errands a little longer, and it said I couldn''t go back to the mansion for a while.


    Opal was also quite disappointed in this, but blaming Claude and moaning alone is not in his nature.


    "I don''t know what to do..."


    I don''t know how long it''s been.


    Even if we honestly wait for Claude to come back here, we will still be delayed in reforming in the Duke''s territory.


    "Well, fine. Then I''ll have to go first by myself."


    If I decided so, I would only have acted later.


    We decide to leave the day after tomorrow and inform Naja and the butler accordingly.


    There will be no fuss as preparations were originally under way.


    Opal wrote back to Claude as he headed to the library desk.


    ''I can''t believe I''ve been left alone for so long. I can''t be in the king''s capital anymore by myself, so I''m going to the duke''s territory''.


    It''s a bit of a prank and Claude will tell you this joke.


    The letter was addressed to a detached palace near Wang Capital.


    It was written that Claude is currently staying there.


    The letter was entrusted to the butler, and Opal went into bed with sleep support.


    And early the next morning.


    With samurai, maids, escort knights and servants, including Naja, Opal set out for the Duke''s land.

 62 32. Duke Territory

    Opal sighed small as he waved at the people lining up along the road.


    They won''t see Opal because they''re all bowing their heads.


    I hadn''t been informed in advance about visiting the Duke''s territory, but they still passed it on.


    Even if I expected that, I didn''t expect these greetings.


    (When you arrive at the consulate, first you have to tell them that you don''t need this kind of greeting)


    He couldn''t hide the status quo of the territory even if he was able to greet him, so he could see what was going on in the territory as it was, so this sudden visit can also be described as a success.


    I don''t suspect anyone managing this land is doing something wrong, but most people try to hide it if the land is not well managed.


    As far as this land is concerned, we know from prior reports that poverty is not the fault of administrators.


    That''s why Opal came to correct them.


    Of course I don''t think everything can be solved, but I can''t do anything without starting.


    (Just... I''m curious to see the fright in everyone''s expression...)


    Not fatigue or apathy from poverty, but obviously against Opal - against the Duchess, the wife of the lord.


    But some of them were hiding the rebellion, suggesting that future plans could not be easily advanced.


    Opal, who eventually entered the grounds of the House of the Duke of Botzelli, was surprised to see the consulate visible in the distance.


    My mouth remains open when I am in Naja.


    "I''ve never seen a castle so amazing!


    "Right." The royal palace in the north is what I used to call it. "


    I heard the story, but I just didn''t imagine it would be so majestic and beautiful.


    The consulate of the House of the Duke of Botzeli is also known as the Royal Palace of the North and "Pearl Castle".


    That was because several generations ago the Duke family held so much power that it bisected the state that it threatened the royal family.


    Built in that era, this consulate was heavily used of milky white stone that could not be mined in the region, as if to boast power.


    It would be called Pearl Castle not only because of its colour, but also because it used the sea route to carry stone.


    (It''s hard to use land to carry all this stone from a region)


    Opal thought of the stone region in his head.


    There are also many mountainous areas in the north, including this Duke of Botzeri territory, which when it comes to transporting stone materials from other parts of the country would have been a considerable heavy labor, which should have taken both funding and time.


    As a result, many of the ore produced from mines located in the Duke''s territory is exported by sea to foreign countries - the Kingdom of Soci��t�� et al.


    Conversely, they are often imported from foreign countries.


    (The stone was probably transported from the Kingdom of Soci��t��...)


    There are bigger quarries in the north than the man-tests owned by the Opals.


    There is also a large port in that area, where imports and exports flourish.


    Most of the silver mined from the Duke''s silver mines was also exported and transported to that port.


    I guess that largely accounted for as a source of funding for the anti-King''s Brotherhood eight years ago.


    The Duke of Botzelli''s territory was further away from the King''s Capital, sandwiching mountainous areas between them and independently securing trade routes, so it should have been a threat to the Royal Family even now.


    That was eight years ago.


    Yet King Alessandro did not make the land his direct jurisdiction, either because Claude is so trusted or because the royal family is not yet equipped with enough power to manage it?


    (Well, the latter would be bigger)


    Reminded me of King Alessandro, who had no loose ends, Opal sighed.


    The land is still too difficult for the young princes to rule.


    The last few years seemed to be managed by surrogates, but the reforms could not seem to be broken.


    A report from my predecessor that I had heard earlier stated that the people on this land were quite closed and would not accept newcomers.


    I guess that''s where I decided to throw the whole thing at Claude.


    Besides, the timing is too good, so it should have been a judgment after knowing the power and financial power of Opal to rebuild the Duke of McCloud.


    (Grab it, but come back...)


    I feel like all sorts of thoughts are hidden by Alessandro''s casual word.


    The sudden call from Alessandro to Claude also began when Opal was to come alone in the first place.


    (Terrible, isn''t it, Your Majesty? You make your newlywed husband work so hard. So I will definitely enrich this land and give it back!


    Opal was rather angry with Alessandro.


    As this land is an important hub, it will in the future be exchanged for some undisputed royal land.


    I don''t care because that''s a natural procedure.


    That''s why I''m not even going to take my hands off it at all.


    Motivated Opal consolidated his hands and his determination.


    There goes Naja''s voice.


    "Ma''am, I''m so scared of your face. They''ll all tremble."


    "Oh, excuse me."


    Apparently, she had wrinkles between her eyebrows and hardened to the point of her face.


    The maid and maid sitting across the street giggled as Opal deliberately answered the highway.


    They were both asked to come with us from the Marquis de Roussel residence.


    If you notice, the consulate, which was visible far away, is now standing in front of you.


    In the front entrance, the servants lined up in front of a wide open door.


    "I wonder if I can do it well..."


    "It''s up to you to do it! Your wife is here."


    Naja was confident and encouraged by the words of the maid, who murmured anxiously.


    Opal snorted and responded with a smile, and the maid as well as the other maid seemed relieved.


    Eight years ago at the Duke of McCloud''s house, Opal fought alone.


    But he was free because he was alone.


    (Can you protect everyone to me...)


    That much thought, Opal denied his weakness.


    Naja taught me how to be a samurai in order to help Opal.


    The other two are moving on and accompanying me on this journey to take care of Opal.


    Everyone is definitely on Opal''s side.


    (Well, we haven''t decided yet that there''s hostility to the servants here, but we''re forbidden to be alarmed, right?)


    Though Opal is now the Lady of the Lords, he is formerly an enemy land.


    Opal took a big, deep breath and then smiled.


    "Well, shall we go"


    "Yes!"


    The three responded well to the quiet Opal''s call.


    Then the carriage door opened and Opal slowly stepped down to the home of the Duke of Botzelli.

 63 33. Family Order

    As Opal took Naja and the other samurai up the front entrance stairs, a magnificent man who stood in front of him took a step forward.


    And bow your head deeply.


    "Welcome aboard, Duchess Botzelli. I am a family order, my name is Connally."


    "... Connally, thank you very much from now on. I didn''t let you know, and I''m glad you welcomed me like this."


    Opal, while lovingly answering, was secretly observing Connally, whom he named a family order.


    Conversely, we can see that it is also sneaky observed by the servants.


    "It''s been a long time since I''ve been able to welcome my husband, the Duchess, to this palace, so we''re all very pleased."


    "Yes, thank you. I guess you''ll notice very well. I''m relieved too."


    "I''m sorry to hear that."


    The pride of Connally can be questioned when this consulate is called the "palace".


    I guess the relationship between Connally and the other servants isn''t a problem either, as a light compliment to Connally didn''t get any particularly unusual reactions from the surroundings.


    Opal was a little more arrogant than usual and was introduced by Connally to other servants who were the Lord.


    Then, when Opal introduces Naja and the others, he asks them to show him to her husband''s room.


    The consulate is no less majestic and beautiful than its exterior.


    It just seemed that some claims of newly-placed ornaments were fierce and gave the impression that they were becoming too gorgeous.


    On the way, it took extra time to ask Connally some questions, but the room is quite far from the front door nonetheless.


    Opal didn''t even have time to rest because his luggage was carried one after the other when he finally entered the room.


    Maybe you just have to slow down without worrying, but you can''t even relax looking at the people who are working for you.


    Nevertheless, there was no way Opal could help, he pretended to be calm and had tea.


    Apparently there''s still a "mundane Opal Holloway" here.


    As I traveled this far from Wang Capital, I realized that as soon as I entered the northern mountainous areas, my information and lifestyle changed dramatically.


    Of course I think tradition should be preserved.


    But if we don''t also incorporate new ways, we''ll one day be isolated from our surroundings.


    (Well, this mindset may be arrogant... You feel a little deliberate, too.)


    It is true that heavy things such as stone can be difficult to carry, but it is easy to carry information to such an extent that people rumor.


    There are also a number of ports on this land, where imports and exports take place, so more things could have been new.


    The same goes for farm equipment, for example.


    Initially I wondered if it could not be turned into new and convenient farming equipment due to lack of funds, but it was unnatural that even the Great Sickle had not yet used it.


    (Apparently this area was hardly affected by the plague...)


    That is why he acted as a stronghold for the anti-King''s Brotherhood, which may have delayed the modernisation of agriculture.


    But why didn''t you get more hands on it in the last four years since Alessandro won?


    (I wonder if we could have done something a little more to improve it, though how closed it is)


    Opal thought that far and realized he was getting silly.


    He should have been an excellent deputy because he was the one that Alessandro chose.


    Probably for some reason, but Opal was tired right now.


    (No, you can''t. I can''t think together...... You still haven''t seen it properly in the first place, so you can''t even draw conclusions, can you?)


    Just when the cup is emptied, Naja tells me she''s ready for a bath and stands up.


    The maids and maids at this consulate are still nervous or have a hard expression, but one of these days they will break it down.


    When Opal stopped thinking about it and took a bath, he took a simple meal in his room and went to bed a little early.


    - The next morning.


    Waking up at his usual time, Opal surprised the consulate servants.


    After all, it seems unusual for the aristocrats to get up early.


    I''ll have breakfast in my room first, and I''ll tell her I''ll take it in the breakfast room tomorrow.


    And when breakfast was over, I called Connally on the family order to inform him of my plans for the future.


    "Are you a land administrator..."


    "Yeah, that''s right. Someone must be running this territory, right? This place is huge for you to manage by yourself."


    "... may I ask what the hell you want to see him for?


    "Of course, to hear about the land around here."


    "Is your wife there?


    "I will. Whenever it''s convenient for me, I''ll make plans. And I''d also like to say hello to your neighbors, so could you keep it on the list?


    "... Yes, sir."


    Connally seemed rather dissatisfied, but there was no way he could defy it, and reluctantly left.


    Opal hesitated to see if he was in too much of a hurry, but he immediately reconsiders.


    I don''t have much time, considering the harvest season.


    Opal was still going to introduce the Great Sickle and Grain Remover here, just like the Duke McCloud territory eight years ago, for one thing.


    For this reason, I have already talked to Omer about the old grain remover - which I introduced eight years ago in the Duke of McCloud territory - at a used price, and I am also ready to carry it out of the port.


    Perhaps we should introduce cutting-edge ones, but we decided to use second-hand machines because we weren''t used to them and because of a number of problems.


    The Great Sickle had ordered something new from a blacksmith in the territory of Opal or the territory of the Duke of McCloud, and the rest was to be asked of a blacksmith in this Duke of Botzelli territory.


    Opal then went to the study before lunch, where he was introduced to Duncan, a land administrator, by Connally.


    If he smiles and Opal gives him one hand, Duncan looks at him without hiding his grump.


    As an opal, I asked for a handshake, but apparently Duncan thought he was asked to say another hello.


    Opal''s predictions, which he thought seemed pretty strong, came off even worse.

 64 34. Administrator

    - What is it?


    "So you can''t use them"


    "Why?"


    Duncan unequivocally opposed Opal''s proposal to use sickles and grain shedding machines in order to reduce the burden of farming in the future.


    I told her that there was no problem with the purchase and it wouldn''t take that long to get used to it.


    When Opal uttered the question as to what else was the problem, the answer returned was astonishing.


    "Of course, because it''s a tool of the devil"


    "The Devil''s Tool? The sickle?"


    "And the grain remover."


    The flashing opal lost his word and stared seriously at Duncan''s face.


    But there''s no sign of a joke anywhere.


    When Opal regained his mind, he began explaining again.


    "The shape of the sickle is indeed... a tool of the devil, though it sounds like a tool of the reaper, but if you look closely, it''s also different in shape? Besides, it''s more convenient. I was going to introduce a mower in the future, but should I introduce you first?


    "No, it''s cool. I''m not going to be confused by the phrase" convenience, etc. "


    "But then you''re going to force the people here to work hard for as long as you want? In areas such as the South that have been incorporated early on, not only will they become more productive, but they will also be able to enjoy their leisure time."


    "That''s why, eight years ago, the plague became so endemic in the South."


    "The plague won''t matter!?


    I was trying to calm down and persuade him somehow, but he got angry when many lives were brought out of the lost plague.


    Opal hastily shut his mouth as he had made his voice absurd.


    You can''t convince them to be emotional.


    But if you look at Duncan''s face, it seems that judgment has already been made, and Opal decided to pull it off once rather than force it.


    "Let''s talk about this again. I''d like you to show me the nearby farmland this afternoon, if you don''t mind?


    "... is your wife on farmland?


    "That''s right."


    "There''s a better place for a picnic, though?


    "- I''m going on an inspection. Okay, I''ll be ready after lunch, so speak up."


    Now that it was useless to say anything, Opal followed the study.


    And to Duncan - rather than to King Alessandro, I offended him in my heart.


    The king should have known this state of affairs.


    I was angry about why you didn''t tell me in advance, and by the time I walked into the room, I realized that knowing didn''t change anything.


    Sure, I might have thought about it, but I don''t think I could have taken measures.


    It would have been hard to understand if I hadn''t actually come to this land.


    But if you don''t know, it''s a big difference.


    I''m still angry with Alessandro.


    If Claude had known, he would have told me, so it was Alessandro''s decision alone.


    But even if I''m focused, I won''t solve anything.


    Opal told Naja of his plans for the afternoon when he changed his mind.


    "Hey, Naja. It''s still a day, but how are the people here? Looks like we can do this right?


    "Right. Hey, guys, it''s still approximate, but it''s kind. It just seems sympathetic."


    "Sympathy?"


    "Your wife seems to have a hard time serving me because she''s my best, whimsical and runaway."


    "Oh, that''s it?" Weren''t there any flurries?


    "Because the servant has nothing to do with that. It was just rumored that my husband, the Marquis Roussel, was already abandoned by the new Duke of Botzelli."


    "Are we talking about being abandoned?


    "Yes."


    "Yes..."


    Opal was surprised to ask Naja what her assessment here was like.


    I wrote that in the letter I sent to Claude before I left Wang Capital, but it means its contents are leaking.


    Moreover, if it has already been passed on to this consulate, it will still mean that the information has been manipulated or that there is a person in this consulate who has been able to grasp the contents of the letter.


    "If it seems to be out of Naja''s hands, would you talk to me? Until then, you can leave the rumors alone. Will you tell the rest of us to do whatever we want?


    "Yes, I did!


    The samurai, maids and servants who accompanied me from Wang Du have favored Opal.


    Care should be taken not to make them feel bad, but I wanted to see how they were doing as much as possible.


    (The problem is Duncan''s faith...)


    I have never heard that the faith of the people of this region is serious.


    Duncan, one prejudice wouldn''t be that hard.


    But if many of the inhabitants are biased against new farming equipment, they could have expected to struggle considerably.


    (When I get back from the afternoon inspection, I have to think about measures...)


    We have solved the problem many times before, but that was because we had many collaborators.


    The reform of the territory of the Duke of McCloud was also because Omer, the land administrator, had an understanding of the new farming equipment.


    Omer was initially defiant due to the backwardness of debt and embezzlement, but gave Opal a lot of advice when it comes to agriculture.


    (That''s right. I have experience with agrarian reform. Absolutely fine!


    He also taught Trevor, a land administrator for the Count Holloway family, a lot from an early age.


    I''ve been using it for the last eight years.


    Opal sat at his desk and wrote three letters when he modified his plans for the future in his head.


    One of them would be waiting at the port of Mantest. The one that wrote instructions for transporting farm equipment to the port of Pasma, north of the Duke of Botzeri territory.


    The other one arrived safely at the consulate and sent to Claude what had communicated the status quo.


    And finally, to Omer. Write funny and strange about the situation here.


    I was just finishing writing and Connally told me I was ready for lunch.


    "Thanks, I''ll be right there"


    I tell her that I will take breakfast and lunch every day in the family breakfast room.


    I tell him dinner is in the smallest supper room, but even tomorrow I''ll have to look around the consulate and think about it a lot.


    (I can''t believe we''re going to be looking around the territory first...)


    As a mistress, it may be unusual, but she needs reform more quickly in the territory than in the consulate.


    Connally remained faceless even when she told her plans for the afternoon and didn''t know what she thought inside.


    But I have more allies than I did when I was isolated at the Duke McCloud house eight years ago.


    (It''s okay. We haven''t decided we''re enemies yet)


    The previous Duke of Botzelli may have been the enemy of King Alessandro of Claude, but the remaining servants must have their own ideas.


    In a hurry about agrarian reform, but still determined to try as hard as possible not to hurt their feelings, Opal left the room for lunch.

 65 35. Inspection

    Returning from the inspection, Opal sighed deeply as he gave his hat to Naja.


    My body isn''t tired, but my head is a little confused.


    The inspection went better than I thought, but on the contrary, doubts arose about Duncan.


    At the beginning of the inspection, the farmers stopped their work hands and stood at the edge of the road, bowing their heads to hide their frightened faces and welcoming Opal.


    Opal tongued himself heartily, forgetting to tell him that such a welcome was not necessary, while declaring that there was no need for a welcome, including for the immediate future, on the spot.


    Then Duncan seemed suspicious about Opal, but he gave an acceptance order without saying anything, and then he obeyed honestly.


    Also at first, I answered the question from Opal in a hassle, but gradually when the question stepped in, I changed my attitude, so that I could answer it sincerely.


    It is surprising because, even though Opal was wary for some time when he spoke to the inhabitants, he did not particularly disturb them, but honored them as Lady Lords.


    Besides, he also saw words and actions that would take place between him and the people who were frightened by Opal.


    In short, there was nothing wrong with this inspection like inspecting Opal''s own territory. - Except for the development of the territory.


    I stole Duncan''s eyes again and asked the residents if they needed new farming equipment, but surprisingly they didn''t know the very existence of seeders, grain shedding machines, etc.


    Some barely knew about the Great Sickle, but he had no absurd ideas, such as the Devil''s Tool, and he had an admiration one way or the other.


    (Besides, my faith didn''t seem so serious...)


    It''s so unnatural that Duncan hates it so much that it''s a devil''s tool.


    It is true that the area may be difficult to access information from the south, but it should have been possible for the information to come in as stone material had been transported from the port.


    However, as Claude and the others had manipulated the information, it is not necessarily the case that no information manipulation has been carried out in this area either.


    Instead, it should be considered that it had been done.


    (But it''s strange that Claude doesn''t know about it...)


    I don''t think Claude has shut up about anything important so far.


    It also makes me wonder if Alessandro didn''t shut up about the reports from the deputies and didn''t know about them.


    (The deputy is suspicious...)


    In the last four years there have been three deputies.


    The first one dies of illness in a year.


    The second threw a spoon in about six months, and the last two years or so seemed to see Opals'' predecessors trying to improve the land.


    (I wonder if I should be careful eating. Or maybe behind it?


    Opal joked and thought as he looked again at the record of his predecessor given to him by Claude.


    If there was a real danger to his life, Claude would never have allowed Opal to come to the land alone.


    I guess the first deputy just had a hard time putting the land under Alessandro''s control.


    (If Duncan had been at that rate the whole time, it would have been tough)


    It seems that Duncan has been the caretaker of this land for more than a decade.


    The previous Duke of Botzelli gave special attention and education to Duncan, who was only a child.


    (Education, right...)


    Maybe Duncan was planted with biased knowledge.


    Some investment is needed to incorporate new tools.


    I wonder if the predecessor Duke of Botzelli thought it would make it easier for the inhabitants and spared no investment to do so.


    It was also conceivable that he had taught Duncan that convenient tools were demonic tools that corrupted the inhabitants.


    (You need to know more about the predecessor Duke of Botzelli.)


    The land had become a funding ground for the anti-King''s Brotherhood, but there had not been a direct battle.


    With the depletion of the silver mine, which was the primary source of funding, and the death of the previous Duke in an accidental accident on the move, the anti-king brotherhood, which lost its back shield, lacked momentum at once.


    Opal, who was still immersed in his thoughts even at dinner time, unconsciously changed into his dining seat.


    That''s where Connally, the family order, deliberately coughs up.


    Opal, finally turning his consciousness to the present, noticed a young man standing next to Connally.


    "Ma''am, this is my servant Julian. Yesterday we were unable to be there to pick you up because we were late in introducing you."


    "My name is Julian, Duchess of Botzelli. Sorry for the delay in greeting you"


    "... don''t worry, I won''t be angry with you about saying hello"


    "Is that true? Oh, good. The Duchess is very generous this time, isn''t she?"


    "This, Julian!


    "Oh, excuse me"


    Julian''s innocent smile seemed to attract people, and even Connally, scolding him, didn''t seem serious.


    Julian smiles with her gaze all the time at Opal, who sees that exchange with cold eyes.


    "Then could you make it a meal?


    "Yes, sir."


    Opal, long out of sight, turned his attention to Connally and told him to start his meal, but with a slightly higher-flying tone.


    At the corner of such Opal''s sight, Julian bows deeply and leaves the room.


    But before Julian lowered his head, Opal didn''t miss the grin on his face like he had made a fool of himself.


    (... unpleasant feeling)


    I got irritated but decided not to react and concentrate on my diet.


    The contents of the meal didn''t look very different from last night, and the taste was poor.


    The cook hasn''t replaced him since he was Duke of Botzelli, so I guess the Duke wasn''t so keen on food.


    Of course Opal is not obsessed either.


    Opal, who had eaten alone in silence, took a seat when he ate properly until dessert.


    Moving to the living room for tea is also silly, going back to the room.


    When I entered the room, Naja, who had anticipated Opal''s behavior, had already prepared tea for me and waited for me.


    "Ma''am, Mr. Connally, you met your favorite servant, didn''t you? Was it cool?


    "Come on? I don''t think I''m cool, but I wonder. More than that, is he Connally''s favorite?


    "Yes, that''s what I heard. So even though he''s still young, he''s doing something like Mr. Connally''s assistant. of the port in the northern region at Mr. Connally''s behest this time... well, it looks like he was there anyway"


    "Port..."


    I wondered what the hell Connally had to do with the harbor, but that''s whoa. I''ll find out.


    Maybe I needed something from my standpoint as a family order.


    Before that, Opal said something that bothered him.


    "Hey, Naja. I don''t know if I would say this... Sure, he ''s-- a servant named Julian might look cool. But you mustn''t go deeper into a type like him."


    "Okay. Even so, when it comes to everyone - Julian says that many of them are jade shattered when attacked, so I can''t do it either."


    "Oh, there''s no man Naja likes and dislikes. I can''t recommend him, though."


    "Thank you! I agree!


    Naja answered honestly to Opal, who advised her that it was unnecessary.


    And laugh like a prank.


    "I''m ideal for a kind man who loves only me a lot. Julian says he''s very bright and gentle, but he''s very popular, so you don''t think he''s exhausted of worries, do you? I want peace of mind with love. Is it a luxury?


    "No, not at all. I think it''s natural."


    If Opal affirmed calmly, Naja dyed her cheeks in the light.


    I want Naja to be absolutely happy.


    Opal smiled to encourage him, standing up to improve his sleep support.

 66 36. Stroll

    The next day.


    Opal, who finished his breakfast, just asked the housekeeper to show him around the consulate.


    The building is well managed and I don''t see anything in particular that needs to be changed.


    In order to express its willingness to remain the same, it was decided to leave the management of the keys in the building to Connally and the housekeeper as before.


    However, the husband and wife''s room keys will be returned from Connally, and only the study and library keys will be returned from the housekeeper.


    Knowing that the housekeeper would not lose his job, he lost his strength from his stiff body, but his approximation remained unchanged.


    It''s only been two days since I''ve been here.


    But Opal felt on his skin that he was being rejected regardless of time.


    That was to feel for all servants working for the consulate, not just the housekeeper.


    I don''t mind because I''m used to that, but the problem is Duncan.


    "You can stay behind about the mansion. We just have to hurry up about the farmland, but Duncan doesn''t..."


    "Apparently, the previous land administrator was Mr. Duncan''s father. Mr. Duncan''s father was stubborn and uncomfortable, and he didn''t even allow the residents to take time off work due to illness or injury. You think my predecessor the Duke liked that place? That''s why Mr. Duncan was raised so hard. But everyone says Mr. Duncan is still a little compassionate."


    "You are."


    When Opal blurred, Naja just gave me the information she had just collected.


    Unlike the previous House of the Duke of McCloud, I have such reliable allies.


    Opal continued to be deliberately foolish.


    "When I recommended new farming equipment useful to Duncan, he told me that it was a" devil''s tool "and I got stuck. I wonder if all the people around here are very faithful?


    "Mr. Duncan refuses to say that everything unknown beyond your understanding is the work of the devil. The plague, the railroad, the young girls."


    "Young girls too? Apparently, you know Duncan''s weakness."


    Opal was once again surprised by Naja''s ability to gather information, even though he answered brightly and jokingly.


    I think it was well collected in this short time.


    It''s not strange that Naja should be wary and neglected.


    "Thank you so much for everything, Naja"


    "There''s no such thing. If Mr. Duncan believes in demons, I''m one of the followers of Opal."


    "Wait, don''t believe in weird religion. And Duncan doesn''t believe in demons."


    If you say your sincere thanks, Naja laughs a lot and stretches her chest.


    Opal erupted as he penetrated.


    And when I finished my afternoon cup of tea, I thought of looking around the consulate as well, and decided to go for a walk on Claude the Dog.


    Ask Naja to help you with your assignment and take Claude to the front door.


    Connally slowly approached me there.


    "- Ma''am, which way are you going?


    "Thought I''d go for a walk on Claude."


    "Are you alone?


    "I''m not going far. Just take a look around here."


    "But..."


    "Something Claude is with. She''s smart, she''ll be fine."


    I''m still unfamiliar with this land and people, so I''m putting a lead on Claude.


    Claude is restless as to whether that''s cramped or if he wants to go outside quickly.


    Connally looked suspicious when she saw how it was going, but she didn''t put it in her mouth, and just when she understood, she opened the front door and bowed her head.


    "Thank you, Connally"


    "Welcome"


    Claude is shaky, but he doesn''t pull the opal, he goes down the stairs in front of the front door.


    Opal, who fixed the side of his hat with one hand, thought which way to go.


    The consulate''s grounds are vast and it would take half a day to walk around the front yard alone.


    "Now, where should we go? Claude."


    Claude, who is not even a year old yet, is a mess, but very smart, and was adored by everyone as a gift for this trip.


    And still, sitting next to a stopped opal waiting.


    "Right. Let''s look around the consulate first."


    Opal started walking, saying it wouldn''t take that long if it was just around the hall.


    Claude would want to run, but walk according to Opal''s gait.


    As I walked thinking about asking a young servant who took good care of Claude during this journey to let me run later, another young servant showed up a little further.


    "Oh, Julian. Wouldn''t it be nice to see you here for a walk?


    "No. I asked Mr. Connally to see how your wife was doing. Because the greenery is deep around here, and if you''re accidental, you''ll get lost."


    "Yes...... Well, then, you better thank Connally. He''s worried about me."


    Julian smiled at Opal as he answered honestly.


    That smile is nostalgic, but there''s a shadow somewhere, and I guess this kind of place tickles the female mind.


    "Ma''am, I''ll take care of Reed"


    - Thank you.


    Opal handed Reed over to Julian that it would be better to focus on the story here.


    Claude turned around once, but quickly turned forward to see who wouldn''t mind holding the lead.


    "Until yesterday, we went to the northern port of Pasma, didn''t we?


    "- Yes. I imported stone, the walls of this consulate. to make sure they are properly dropped off the ship."


    "Will you import stone again... and build more?


    "It''s for repairs. The storm last month broke the tree and damaged the wall, but I used all the spare stone then. So you wanted to keep a new stockpile. Mr. Connally wants to keep this consulate perfected at all times."


    "You are."


    Opal, who replied, looked up at the consulate.


    The white-walled hall shines as if polished every day.


    Maintaining just this many halls will require a lot of funding.


    (Well, I don''t mind that, but you''re wrong if that consists of a burden on the people)


    Opal decided to check the books and review them once around, too, and continued his walk.


    Julian points me to the area around the hall and tells me, and if I see a gardener or something on the way, he will introduce me.


    "How long has Julian been here?


    "It''s not that long yet. So everyone is nice to me in the new America."


    "Yes, that would be nice."


    I felt like I had been teased well, but Opal didn''t pursue it deeply.


    If you want to know, ask someone else and you''ll find out soon enough.


    So I changed to another topic.


    "From Julian''s perspective, what is Duncan like?


    "Right...... He''s tough, but honest, diligent, trustworthy."


    "You praise me a lot. I''m not gonna tell anyone, so I want you to tell me the truth."


    "... I try not to trust a woman''s words'' I won''t tell anyone ''."


    "Oh, I can''t complain about that."


    Opal laughed out loud at Julian''s words, which he joked about.


    Then again, Julian makes me laugh by saying all sorts of things.


    Unsurprisingly for Opal, Julian was a great guide and his first stroll was a pleasure.

 67 37. Practice

    From the next day Opal struggled to convince Duncan.


    Show and explain the sickle he had brought some, but Duncan won''t shake his neck vertically even if he listens in silence.


    Then let''s put it into practice, and I couldn''t have had one of the escort knights scoop the bushes I found on the stroll.


    It can also mean firing Duncan, but it is a last resort.


    (Duncan is tough and solid, stubborn, but the people from the people seem to have serious expectations...)


    Opal sighed deeply as he looked out his own window into the beautifully tidied garden.


    How can I convince Duncan of the advantages of using a sickle?


    We can order the inhabitants to use the Great Sickle directly without going through Duncan.


    But that doesn''t earn me any trust from Duncan.


    Connally always looked satisfied with how Opal was struggling with his Duncan counterpart that way.


    Naja''s information suggests that the mansion''s servants are submissive to Connally, but only Duncan draws a line.


    I spent the last few days figuring out that the courteous but cold attitude of the servants was not hating Opal, but their behavior in fear of Connally.


    Connally is also a problem for the new Duke Territory, but he can''t fire again soon either.


    Stuck Opal sighed again and turned his consciousness out the window.


    And then I find someone and I get up.


    "I''m just gonna walk in."


    "Your wife?"


    "It''s okay. I don''t need an escort because it''s a garden."


    "Please wait a moment."


    Naja walked into the costume room once saying so and came right back.


    He holds an umbrella in his arm and offers me gloves.


    "Because I have a little bit of sunlight today. Was the hat better?


    "No, an umbrella would be fine. Thank you, Naja."


    Opal, who wore gloves with Naja''s help, received an umbrella and left the room.


    Down the stairs came Connally, but he tells her he''s just going for a walk in the garden and goes outside.


    Fortunately, the person I was looking for was still in the garden, and Opal approached me with an umbrella attached and spoke.


    "What are you doing, Julian?


    "We''re picking flowers, ma''am"


    "You? Even though it''s the gardener''s job?


    "I don''t have a particular job right now, so I offered to help."


    "From Julian?


    "Yes."


    Opal was surprised to hear the unexpected words, but said nothing more.


    Julian then gently lowers his head and returns to work.


    Opal, who watched the situation in silence, spoke to Julian again after a while.


    "How did Julian get inside everyone''s circle?


    "... respect the other person, remember to smile and thank him, and take the initiative yourself. Everyone is afraid of new things, so we can''t help but be exclusive."


    "You''re all in this together..."


    Opal, who replied as if to himself, tilted his umbrella and looked up at the sky.


    This Duke''s territory in the north is also an early fall visit.


    I don''t have time to relax.


    "Thank you, Julian. Sorry to interrupt your work."


    "No, because it is my pleasure to be of service to your wife"


    To Julian, who bowed his head exaggerated, Opal returned to the mansion without saying anything, although he raised a single eyebrow.


    Go straight into the clothing room.


    "Ma''am, are you looking for something?


    "Hey, Naja. Do you have any clothes that you can move easily to farm?


    "Is it farming? Your wife?"


    "Yeah. You''ve just been giving orders to people, haven''t you? But first, I wonder if I can convince Duncan to move?


    "... wouldn''t it be quicker for Mr. Duncan to be relieved of his duties?


    "Well, that''s one hand, but I''m just going to see how it goes."


    "Okay. Now please summon my clothes."


    "Oh, that''s bad. Something that could get dirty or torn."


    It''s not the same as when I used to visit Beth in disguise.


    Naja laughed at the disapproving opal.


    "It''s no big deal compared to your wife''s dress. But if you bought a dress and summoned it from a farmer, they might buy the opposite. My clothes are just fine."


    "Just fine......"


    Certainly not only would Opal float quite a bit if he suddenly dressed as a farmer, but some would look at it in the way he wore it as ridiculous.


    It''s not like Julian, who was hired as a servant.


    That''s why it''s hard to convey seriousness in garments tailored with fine silk no matter how easy they are to move.


    "Okay. Now let''s trade one for my dress."


    "Thank you!


    I have given away clothes that I no longer wear to Naja and others, but this time I will have Naja pick them out.


    That way we feel like we got a little something from each other.


    Opal matched the clothes Naja had brought to me and told the knights what was due tomorrow to get ready.


    - The next day.


    Opal, who had heard that he would be servicing a place that had long been a fallow for next year, headed out with the knights and a sickle.


    The knights who saw Opal in the straw hat Naja prepared for us were quite surprised at the beginning but not as good as Duncan is today.


    Duncan sighs after watching Shiatsu Opal.


    "What are you going to do this time?


    "I was trying to help you"


    Smile and Opal replied, but Duncan just hoisted his eyebrows.


    But the farmers were stunned and bothered.


    Continue further there.


    "Working together will get us out of the way, but if you''re in charge of that compartment over there, it won''t be a problem, will it? I think you should have more manpower."


    "... thank you very much"


    Duncan accepted, and Opal nodded in response.


    I respect Duncan.


    I haven''t forgotten to smile and thank you either.


    But Opal is an employer, and Duncan is an employer.


    I don''t give orders to force the Great Sickle to use it, but I''m not going to make any more concessions.


    By the time the Opals had finished mowing a section of grass, the farmers were still about half. - Opal was of little use, though.


    Seeing the obvious difference, Duncan glanced at him.


    "Should I mow the grass in that compartment next?


    "- Yes."


    "Well, I''ll get to it. Oh, but..."


    Opal turned there on his way to the next compartment.


    Duncan remains standing still on the spot and the farmers are watching.


    "I''m bringing a replacement sickle for when the blade spills. But it still looks okay, so you guys can use it, if you want? There''s got to be enough."


    The choice lies with Duncan.


    Here''s the sickle - accept or reject the opal.


    In that case, it would be dismissed, but with a clear view of the convenience of the sickle in front of the farmers, dismissing Duncan, who rejected the sickle, would not cause so much backlash.


    Neither do excuses such as devil''s tools.


    The farmers look with envy at the great sickle arranged on the shore.


    Duncan glanced back at Opal after a glimpse of the Great Sickle, surrendering and raising his hands only small.


    "May I sweeten your words? In doing so, we need to teach everyone how to use it."


    "Yes, of course. It''s easy, so you''ll be handling it better soon than I am."


    I was so happy that I wanted to scream out, but when Opal answered with clarity, Duncan laughed out loud.


    From then on, as expected, the farmers quickly learned how to use the Great Sickle and Opal became completely useless.

 68 38. Mines

    The story of the Duchess helping mow the grass quickly spread.


    No one believed it at first, but few doubted it whenever Opal in a straw hat appeared on land in need of mowing.


    He simply believed that the Great Sickle would be paid even on land where Opal could not travel directly.


    And everyone rejoiced in the Great Sickle, which could mow grass twice as fast as the traditional sickle, and Opal was happy to welcome him wherever he went.


    Quite different from when Opal first came to the Duke''s territory, the fright disappears from everyone''s face and I can see a smile.


    Opal was letting the dog take a walk on Claude, thinking about the next thing he should hit his hand.


    "- You seem to have successfully persuaded Duncan, right?


    "Yes. Thank you, Connally. It''s so rare that you''re out there."


    "Because it is my role to keep an eye on the entire territory as well as the Mansion. At least we have to actually walk around the grounds of this palace."


    "Then you send a replacement when you can''t actually walk. Like Julian?


    Connally''s words were favorable, but you can tell by the look on his face that it wasn''t sincere.


    The nostalgic Claude didn''t like Connally either, hiding his tail between his crotches.


    "Looks like your wife is actually going out, but are you seriously going to be in Pasma Harbor?


    "Yeah, that''s right. I''m leaving tomorrow. That''s what you told him, isn''t it?


    "But don''t you need your wife to go out on purpose?


    "Why?"


    "Pasma is not a very secure place. Those who work in the harbor are rough and many doors are broken. So I think it would be better if I left it to my surrogate."


    "... I''m not alone. And of course the escort."


    When Opal answered that, Connally glanced lightly at her shoulder, then bowed her head deeply.


    "I offered you something."


    "I don''t mind."


    Opal, with all due respect, reconsidered the future as he took Claude back to the mansion.


    The port of Pasma will soon receive a farming machine from the Kingdom of Soci��t��.


    Opal was scheduled to make an inspection of the northern region from the port at the same time as he was present at its packing.


    Most of the ore, the primary source of revenue for this Duke''s territory, is transported to and exported from the port of Pasma using the river, but only one railway was laid to a station near this consulate.


    The water volume of the river is not constant and the basin is limited, so it was unstable as a means of transport to such an extent that it could be used more than by road.


    For this reason, the railway connection of each mine and the development of the port of Pasma are the objectives listed with Claude at the same time as the agricultural reform.


    Claude knows better about railway business, but there''s something Opal can do.


    I wanted Claude to clean up his current job and get ready to work on it as soon as he came.


    (Plus I''d like to close the lead mine in the north if I could...)


    It is barely black now, given the volume of output and the risks associated with mining, but will be in deficit in the near future.


    Claude and I are also in agreement that the mountain will close.


    But given the lives of miners and neighbors, we can''t do it right now.


    We have to figure out if they can still live on the land after the mountain closes or if they have to emigrate.


    Opal doesn''t make much of an appearance because he has Omer''s personal men seconded when it comes to handling farm machines.


    Duncan and I had attached a promise to accept a new farming machine, and Opal intended to brief the dispatchers lightly on the situation at the port before heading to the mine.


    Thanks to the railway it doesn''t take much time to reach the port of Pasma.


    The problem is the journey from there to the mine.


    It''s faster by carriage than going back to the river, but at least two days is all it takes.


    (Transport of supplies to major cities is important, but inefficient)


    Opal, who entered the study, thought looking at the map.


    The only railway that leads to the port of Pasma was laid before the plague spread.


    Then for a while the land was in turmoil, but nothing had been started in the four years since the civil war had healed, probably because it had no funds.


    There are countless lands to be developed as a nation, and we can also see that this rebellious land has been left behind.


    Then again, four years ago, it wasn''t if we were sending technicians to man-test. - Normally.


    (You sold me a favor...)


    King Alessandro''s authorization to send technicians abroad was also an investment in the future.


    Now that man-test development has been successful and has generated significant revenues, the investors should have considered investing in the Duke of Botzeri territory as a new investment destination.


    At least that''s what Alessandro should have decided at the time that Hubert would feel grateful to invest.


    Because I would have noticed Hubert''s sweetness by meeting him in person.


    Perhaps Claude helped me with everything knowingly.


    (Well, it''s true that no matter what thoughts I had, I couldn''t thank you enough)


    But what neither Claude nor Alessandro could have predicted could be the divorce between Opal and Hubert.


    Nevertheless, I feel like even that has been successfully used.


    Opal has enough luxurious money to invest in the development of the Duke of Botzelli''s territory.


    (... well, you don''t have a choice)


    Even if Opal doesn''t have a sentence, I can believe Claude proposed to me.


    If Opal says he doesn''t like this land, he''ll accept it.


    But I don''t test Claude''s affection for that.


    I use something, all I have to do is do what I can.


    Without thinking extra, Opal regained consciousness to the map again.


    Lead mines thinking of closing - Lead mines can be seen as not profitable even if they are deliberately transported to the port of Pasma.


    Rather, I think you''ve been in black a lot before.


    Then it would have been less expensive to build a port closer than the port of Pasma and carry it out of there.


    The terrain is only visible on the map, but it is also nearby where it is suitable for the port.


    "Could it be a problem with the current..."


    One shrugged Opal once again looked seriously at the map and marked the mines everywhere.


    And frowns.


    "This is a little..."


    Though I didn''t think so, I put my finger on the map and moved it slowly.


    Different thoughts came to mind and disappeared, but it''s all just speculation.


    When Opal suddenly rose, he took the aristocratic register of the kingdom of Tysey from the bookshelf and glanced at the column of the Duke of Botzeli.


    As expected, the predecessor Duke is related to the nobility of the Kingdom of Soci��t�� - the Marquis de Saimes.


    But there were also connections that I didn''t expect.


    (No, I''m sure His Majesty knows this too)


    Opal, who has been married from another country, is still studying, but there is no way that Alessandro, the king, does not know the kinship of his own nobility.


    I still thought so, and Opal hastily wrote a letter.


    One to Claude, one to Omer, and the other.


    Just when I sealed everything, Julian knocked and came into the study.


    "I went to turn the lights on"


    "Thank you. I''ll be back in my room, please."


    "Yes, I did. I will now take care of your letter."


    "- Yeah. Please."


    In answer to Julian, who noticed the letter he had placed on his desk, Opal stood up.


    Julian bows her head as she steps back to make it easier for Opal to leave.


    Opal left the study with a glimpse of Julian.

 69 39. Materials

    "Looks like you''re doing well."


    "Thank you, Julian. So, why are you still here?


    When Opal saw the loading of the arriving farming machine, he was also able to meet with two of Omer''s personal men who were dispatched.


    And I set out to visit the lead mine first, but for some reason Julian is accompanying me.


    Julian chuckles if he speaks such a question.


    "Mr. Connally was worried about his wife. I''ve visited Pasma Harbor several times, and they thought it would be safe to offer me."


    "Yeah, that would be nice. But I''m on my way to the mine. Shouldn''t you go back to Connally?


    "But the miners are worried because there are so many rough people and the mines are dangerous again."


    "Connally? But I guess it''s hard for you to deal with it."


    "Does your wife think of me that way?


    "Yeah. I have no idea what Julian has been up to."


    Julian moans holding her chest with one hand as she serves dinner in a moving inn.


    Pretending to be hurt by Opal''s words is too white.


    This time on the road, Opal and Julian always mistook each other for being close because of the way they interacted, or even Naja.


    For that reason, Naja was told by Julian, and now in the next room, Opal has a dress to wear tomorrow.


    "I knew I should have brought another one..."


    No other female servants had been brought to this inspection, so she was straining one Naja.


    There have been no reports of thieves leaving, but more escorts said the journey to the mine would also be dangerous, and it was decided that as few women as possible would be better off with their feet together.


    Opal''s luggage is surprisingly few as an aristocratic woman, and I''ve only brought a few dresses.


    For this reason, as an opal, I think I can dress the same every day, but Naja wouldn''t let me.


    It makes me dress differently every day by inventing something like that.


    "Very good lady..."


    "I''m a proud maid. - I won''t allow you to put your hands on her."


    Julian, who looked into the neighbor''s room when she was caught by Opal, squealed like an unexpected thing.


    Opal replied only naturally when he heard it, but advises him in a tight tone as soon as possible.


    Naja and Julian are getting pretty close on this journey.


    "Rest assured. My position is ample."


    "- Yes, that''s fine."


    Opal didn''t miss a grin that made Julian look like a fool of himself when he lowered his head deeply.


    Julian makes this grin look good for a long time.


    But Opal kept eating without saying anything.


    Tomorrow we will arrive in the town at the foot of the mine.


    That way they have a house owned by the Duke of Botzelli, so there should be a more decent servant there.


    Opal told himself it was patience until then.


    And the next day.


    Opal, who went into town, was stunned by the difference from the man-test.


    Of course I understand that man-testing is a pretty easy place to work.


    That''s how I''ve worked hard as a manager.


    "That''s kind of scary..."


    Naja shrugged as she watched the town through the window with Opal.


    I guess the men are out to work.


    There are only women, children and old people in town, but they looked resentfully at the carriage Opal rode.


    The body is all thin.


    "This looks pretty tough."


    Opal joked and said, but he was actually a little scared.


    But I remember how I felt the first time I stepped into the Duke McCloud house.


    Even then I really wanted to run back.


    Still, his mean, stubborn personality got in the way of Opal.


    Now we have to fight regardless of our intentions or anything.


    Determined to be something to lose, Opal fainted when he saw the mansion-like building of the Duke''s house.


    "Wow..."


    I also know exactly how Naja felt when she raised her voice to weakness.


    Standing in a small, high place overlooking a poor town, the mansion was like a noble mansion in the king''s capital.


    And it was a plenty of fat men who welcomed the Opal who arrived.


    "Welcome aboard, Duchess of Botzelli. I am entrusted with the management of this town, including the lead mine, my name is Cole"


    "Cole, thank you for staying for a while."


    Cole bowed respectfully in his tailored clothes.


    All the servants of the mansion, who refrain from behind it, are not like the people of the town. They are also blood-colored and in good condition.


    If they show inequality so close, they will have no choice but to resent the Dukes.


    Cole started talking to Opal when he stepped into the mansion.


    The content was how well I was ruling this land, my talent in running it without running a deficit at all, even with a small amount of mining - in short, I was bragging.


    "- It seems that all the people who work in this mansion are not from this land. They built this mansion about ten years ago, and they moved it to this land."


    "I knew you would"


    Opal, who was sick and tired of being bragged about Cole, who was also present during dinner, gave me the information Naja had just purchased for me.


    Sigh leaks from Opal at such expected content.


    Even if it makes life easier for the people of the town in the near future, there''s no way it''s going to work out with the people in the mansion who have lived ever filled up.


    I thought this problem had to be solved too, but Opal, who was tired, fell asleep as soon as he got into bed.


    - The next morning.


    When I asked for guidance to the mine, the words of rejection returned from Cole, who was so loving.


    "I''m sorry, but I can''t show you your wife to the mountains"


    "Why?"


    ''Cause of course it''s dangerous.''


    "Oh, don''t worry. Getting into a pit is something I''m used to because I''ve had many experiences in the past. Anyway, I''m going on an inspection. If you can''t do it today, even tomorrow. If you can''t, follow the others."


    I smiled sparingly but didn''t let him say yes or no.


    And go on even further.


    "And then, yeah. I was wondering if you could prepare some material on mine mining volumes and export destinations. I''ll go to the study later."


    "And is that material?


    "That''s right. If you managed it properly, you''d have a record, wouldn''t you? You''ll be busy too, so you don''t have to be present. I might ask you some questions later, though."


    - Yes, sir.


    Opal, reluctantly but satisfied with the accepted call, took his seat.


    Once you get back to your room and get lightly familiar, then head to the study.


    When he entered the study, Cole had already piled up some material on his desk.


    "These are the materials from the last five years. I will be away for a while as I will arrange a visit to the mine. So if you don''t know, please ask later"


    "Thanks, Cole. That would help."


    When Opal smiled thankfully, Cole lowered his head before leaving the study.


    Opal from then on was immersed in reading the material.


    As Cole praised himself for painting, the material is well prepared.


    But somehow Opal felt uncomfortable.


    The numbers are too pretty for words.


    Knock sounded as Opal stood up and examined the bookshelf wondering if there was any other material.


    "I brought you some tea"


    "Thank you. Will you put it there?


    When Opal answered without even raising his face from the material he was looking through, he suddenly felt signs of people behind his back after a while.


    The moment I try to turn a surprise, I get a strong shock on my shoulder.


    Opal couldn''t raise his voice, and he lost consciousness.

 70 40. Attic

    (I''m thirsty...)


    Such an idea came to mind, Opal awakened abruptly.


    I try to get up with my eyes open all the time, but the pain runs from shoulder to back and groans without getting up as it is.


    Then I heard a low laugh from at my feet.


    "Good morning, Duchess"


    "... Julian, where am I?


    "Where do you think?


    - In the attic.


    "Exactly, you know me well"


    You were sitting in a chair, or there was some rubbing noise on the floor and there was a sign that Julian was up.


    Then slowly the footsteps approach and Julian''s appearance enters his sight.


    There was a grin on that face like the usual little fool.


    "Who gave you instructions to do this ridiculous thing? Connally or Cole? Either way, I''ll be exposed soon. Then you won''t be safe. What are you gonna do?


    I don''t care.


    "You''re an idiot to be involved in this"


    "Better than thinking you''re smart."


    I don''t think so.


    "Then he''s unconscious."


    "Ha!?


    It was Opal trying to speak calmly at first, but I couldn''t stand Julian''s words.


    Julian laid her hands on the bed to be pressured, as she threatened Opal, who had made a loud noise about it.


    "Shut up. Don''t speak out loud. Otherwise you''ll have to block your mouth."


    "Are you going to kill me?


    "... there was also a proposal to make it look like accidental death in a mine. But then, on the contrary, we shall call upon many. For Mr. Cole, we want to get rid of the Kings as soon as possible."


    "Isn''t it a bad idea to imprison me, though? It''s time for me to go back and tell Naja to worry and look for the knights. If you do, we''ll start searching the mansion soon."


    "If she moves, she will."


    "I told you not to lay a hand on Naja!


    As soon as we talked about Naja, Opal left it to his anger to push Julian away.


    And then I get up, but I end up overlooked by Julian, who wakes up and stands in bed.


    "You don''t have to be so angry, you just kind of took away your freedom of hands and feet. But I can''t promise her safety until you''re quiet."


    "- What am I supposed to do?


    "I''m glad to be honest. I just need you to write me a few letters. ''I''ve loved Julian. So we''ll both live discreetly. Don''t look for me.'' How about that? Run off."


    "If Claude reads that letter, he''ll laugh so much that his stomach twists."


    Imagine Claude when he was informed about this one, and a grin on Opal''s face.


    Julian shrugged her shoulder like it was nothing.


    "I don''t care if he doesn''t believe me. If the others believe. Mr. Connally should testify." Your wife had a special eye for Julian, "he said. The men of the mansion and the knights who accompanied them on this journey should be convinced."


    "That''s what Connally came all this way to introduce you to, wasn''t it? To seduce me?


    "''My wife is lonely being left alone by her husband,'' she says."


    "That''s kind of you. But I don''t believe in Naja."


    "Oh. That''s why I detained her, too. Write in the letter that I will take her with me, too. If the knights leave after you, I''ll reunite you with her."


    For a moment Opal exhaled relieved knowing that Naja''s safety was likely to be guaranteed.


    Julian would certainly not treat Naja coarsely.


    Because if anything happens to Naja, we know Opal will stop following her quietly.


    "So, what are your plans for the future? If I were to run off with you, I might buy you some time. But as soon as Claude finds out, he''ll be looking for me."


    "That''s tearful couples love. But that''s what we''re talking about if Claude''s okay, right?


    "What do you mean?


    Opal stared at Julian in disturbing words.


    Julian laughs when she sees such an opal.


    "Alessandro has held the throne for four years. Enough time, don''t you think? Anti-King Brotherhood didn''t lose. I was just silent to accumulate power again."


    "You''re not going to start a revolt now, are you? If you do that, it will be the people who will be sacrificed?


    I don''t care about the people, Mr. Connally.


    "Then you absolutely must protect His Majesty Alessandro. Claude must feel the same way. So I''ll do what I have to do."


    "... you''re free to just say it. But what you need to do now is write a letter, right?


    In a sigh mix, Julian offered a note.


    That''s what Opal uses from time to time.


    I don''t feel good to think you touched your stuff on your own, but Opal wrote a letter putting it like that as directed.


    Julian nods contentedly when he reads it.


    "It''s honest and helpful. Of course, there are many watchdogs in the mansion, so it''s no use trying to escape."


    "What about Naja?


    "If the knights leave the mansion safely, I''ll have Naja see you."


    That being said, Julian left the attic with a letter.


    Soon afterwards the sound of locking the door sounds loud.


    Opal lay down again in a hard bed as he exhaled the breath he was packing.


    You should be quiet for one second until Naja is safe.


    Then think about what to do and what to do until then.


    I used to cage myself in the attic.


    But not this time.


    How can we stop the anti-Kings'' rampage now that we have no freedom?


    (No, you don''t have to stop me. I''m sure Claude and the others already have information.)


    However, I was concerned that Claude allowed Opal to go to the Duke of Botzeri territory alone.


    I can''t help wondering.


    (No, that can''t be happening. I can''t believe you stung me...)


    But even if Claude doesn''t intend to, Alessandro can think about it.


    Maybe that''s why Claude was able to come up with a sudden errand.


    (for example...... Either way, when this matter is resolved safely, I''ll give you one shot at your majesty!


    Opal squeezed his luxurious right hand firmly and shoved it high toward the ceiling.

 71 41. Attic

    "Ma''am - Master Opal!


    "Naja! You''re safe! Good......"


    The day after Opal was trapped in the attic.


    Naja ran into the room.


    The figure looked fine without injury, and Opal relaxed and hugged Naja.


    When Naja also does not hesitate to hold Opal back, she explores her body everywhere to make sure there are no injuries.


    "Good. Your wife''s safe, isn''t she? If I had hurt even one of your wife''s hair, I would never have forgiven Julian!


    "You''re a much brave samurai. You didn''t have to worry, did you?


    "What way do you call your wife!? You''re rude!"


    "It''s okay, Naja. I don''t care about Julian."


    "But..."


    Naja eats Julian standing with her shoulders on the wall at the entrance to the room.


    When he grabbed Naja''s arm like that and stopped, Opal smiled at Julian.


    "We need to talk to each other, so why don''t you make us some tea?


    "... fine. But don''t think you can get away with it."


    Laughing invincibly, Julian closed the attic door.


    Soon afterwards there is a sound that locks.


    It doesn''t seem like a big key, but if you try to break it and get out, the family will be torn apart by the loud noise.


    Opal looked anxious Naja and slapped that hand gently.


    "You don''t have to worry about it. Julian will not harm us."


    "You can''t trust me about that one!


    Naja strongly disputed Opal''s words.


    But soon I get a crying look.


    "Excuse me, ma''am. The truth is I should have been on guard...... Your wife didn''t trust Julian from the beginning..."


    "Never mind, Naja. I''m getting into enemy territory, so be prepared for this. Though I didn''t think they''d kill me, I didn''t expect to be imprisoned..."


    "It''s okay, ma''am. I''ll get you out of here somehow!


    "Oh, you can''t be unscrupulous. You don''t have to worry, because Claude will definitely come and help you. Let''s make sure we don''t end up with Claude''s legs."


    While answering jokingly, Opal shook Naja''s hands and looked her straight in the eye and told her.


    Naja nods honestly.


    I cleverly brought back the tray where Julian put the tea.


    "Oh, you''re surprisingly powerful."


    "You''re not the same nobleman who keeps giving orders."


    "Your wife hasn''t turned around and waited! You always move from me!


    "Thank you, Naja. Julian must have grown up twisted. I''m sorry."


    Shut the fuck up.


    Julian hummed her nose and placed the tray on a small table.


    Naja pours tea into the cup and mouths.


    "There''s no poison in it."


    "Even if it''s in there, you don''t have to taste like poison, Naja."


    "No, this is all I can give away"


    Naja poured tea into a new cup with that answer.


    Apparently, he decided it wasn''t poisoned.


    Opal''s life will be a shield if he has to, so he won''t have to worry about getting killed at the moment.


    Opal accepted the tea if Naja was still comfortable with it.


    "Thanks"


    "No, it''s quite deliciously brewed."


    Opal nodded small as he sipped his tea.


    That''s just how I work as a Duke''s servant.


    Too bad there''s nothing sweet about tea contracts.


    But I needed more than that.


    Opal smiled at Julian staring sarcastically as he put the cup back on the table.


    "If I have to stay in the attic like this, I''d like you to bring a book to the boredom."


    "That''s a lot of big attitude. You know where you stand?


    "Yeah. I''m the last trump card, right? If you shield me, no doubt Claude can''t get his hands on it, and if you''re having trouble with the money, what I have assets in."


    "You''re a really busy one."


    "Oh, not now? Something well said for a long time."


    "Well, fine. But don''t be too busy, okay? The trump card is you, and I don''t care about the lady there."


    "Become -"


    It was Naja who objected, and Opal immediately raised his hand and stopped it.


    Julian laughs and leaves the attic.


    Of course, the sound of being locked afterwards sounded.


    "Ma''am, why didn''t you let me tell you!?


    "Because Naja is important to me. But unfortunately for those people, Julian is right. That''s why I don''t want to risk it."


    "But I don''t want to be a foot wrapper..."


    Opal laughed out loud to encourage Naja, who was completely depressed.


    Naja looks surprised.


    "Because Naja''s here, I can''t help it. Even Claude must be grateful to Naja."


    "Oh no... will my husband be okay!?


    Naja also seems to have noticed that the anti-Kings have really moved.


    Opal nodded loudly with a grin.


    "Claude is fine. I''m sure he''ll be here soon. ''Cause I''m used to it."


    "Are you used to it?


    "Yeah. When I was a little girl, I used to play with Claude as a captive princess and a knight who came to help. But Claude complained a lot that I wasn''t just being held captive, I was trying to escape on my own. So with Naja together, you can help me feel safe because I''m not being helpless."


    "Marcia often told me that your wife was your wife, but it was true, wasn''t it?"


    Opal closed one eye and said it like a prank, Naja began to laugh as she shrugged.


    Apparently, he also lost his shoulder strength.


    Opal was finally able to pull out his shoulder, and the two of us laughed at each other.

 72 42. Attic

    "Naja, it''s time for a meal. Help me."


    "Can I get out of here?


    "If you''re with me. Of course, don''t think you can get away with it. Naturally, no one in this mansion is going to help you, not even the townspeople."


    Julian peeked into the attic and spoke to Naja.


    The yang is already quite inclined if you notice.


    Opal was obsessed with the book Julian carried for me and forgot the passage of time.


    Naja seemed to be dressing up and fixing just a few of the opals during that time.


    "Are the people in your mansion cooperative, and the people in town threatened?


    "Don''t pinch the extra mouth, ma''am"


    Naja was apparently also left to take care of Opal''s surroundings.


    Fortunately, there were two beds in the attic that I could eat and sleep with Naja.


    I don''t want to leave Naja as long as I can.


    "Naja, never leave Julian when you leave this room"


    "But madam, Julian..."


    "Because I''m the most trustworthy person in this mansion. I don''t mean it."


    "... ok"


    "Hurry up."


    Julian interrupts the conversation between Opal and Naja as irritated.


    Naja nodded at Opal''s concern, although she seemed unwilling again.


    After the two of them left, Opal stood up and looked out the small window.


    (Unfortunately, there are no trees that could fly away...)


    Of course I''m not going to leave Naja and run away, but I won''t have a choice but to think about it.


    Tree climbing was Opal''s favorite play.


    But even the tallest trees in this mansion are up to the third floor, and have not reached the attic.


    Besides, even if you can climb that tree, it''s only up to about the height upstairs that you can support in your adult weight.


    Opal tried to reach for the window and open it.


    I guess the rattling noise is bad construction because it''s not that old a building.


    I wasn''t particularly concerned about it in the master bedroom, but I can tell it was out of hand in the attic.


    "Don''t think about how reckless it is to jump into a tree and run away."


    "... you''re going to jump rather than fly away."


    Opal looked back and replied to Julian''s ridiculous words when he came back.


    He wasn''t aware of the sound of unlocking it because he was pointing his consciousness out the window.


    And then, uh, I wonder if it really is.


    "Ma''am, your meal is quite good."


    "Thank you, Naja"


    Naja''s tray that came in is well cooked.


    Opal, while thanking him, turned his attention to the tray Julian had.


    The tray has several empty vessels and a glass of water.


    Julian left without saying anything more when he put the tray on the table.


    It sounds locked at the same time.


    "You didn''t lock it earlier..."


    "Oh, speaking of which, yes! Your wife was able to escape, but she was accidental..."


    Naja, who was arranging the dishes, answered Opal''s grunt with dismay.


    But Opal laughs and shakes his head.


    "I wouldn''t run away if I knew. They just tried it."


    "Tried?


    "Yep. Whether I put Naja down and run. Whether they''re after the escape gap or not."


    Opal laughed bitterly, not even thinking about running out the door or anything.


    I only thought of myself as out the window. I''m crazy.


    But Naja still seems to be depressed that she is getting her feet together.


    "I knew your wife would have gotten more physical without me..."


    "Don''t be silly. You said that earlier, didn''t you? Because Naja will be here, I can stay unscrupulous. Because Naja''s here, I can still be normal."


    Opal held Naja''s hand and smiled to encourage her.


    I want to brave Naja more if she doesn''t have to worry, but now it''s hard too.


    I''m sure the help will come in a few days.


    Opal was so sure, but he didn''t say it.


    From then on, the two of us shared a meal and decided to enjoy it until dessert and go to bed early at night.


    "Naja, will you leave the window?


    "Aren''t you cold?


    "It''s okay. Rather because of the daytime sun, this room is just about right because it''s hot"


    "Right."


    Speaking to Naja, who tried to close the window, Opal lay down on the bed.


    Due to its high location, insects rarely enter, and pleasant night breezes come in through slight gaps.


    Naja must have been tired.


    Opal was relieved that Naja was asleep because he heard a lovely sleep after a while.


    (Two days after I ran off. Of course the knight has gone on a search, because Cole will rush to Connally to deliver my letter... to the King''s Capital - is it enough that His Majesty Alessandro will know for seven days? No, I''m sure it''s sooner. I wonder if it''s the seventh day that spreads throughout the country as rumors. Rumors must have left before you locked me in here.)


    Opal exhaled lightly and began to think about what was to come as he sorted out his head.


    We know Alessandro won''t believe this rundown story.


    Rather, it would be as much as I had anticipated earlier.


    Claude must have also known that Opal was just headed for the Duke of Botzelli''s territory and there was no way he wouldn''t go out to the mine.


    And yet you haven''t said anything...


    Opal heard a faint noise and woke his body all the way up.


    I thought it was the sound of the wind, but it''s still different.


    Softly out of bed, Opal breathed trying to get close to the window.


    Hold your mouth with both hands to avoid screaming.


    I thought I saw a shadow outside the window, and the shadow slowly opened the window and came inside.


    "-Hey, Opal. Long time no see."


    You can''t go wrong in the darkness with only the stars.


    Little whispers are the usual gentle, slightly lower, gentle voice.


    Opal wasn''t sure if he should laugh or cry at the kind of swallowing words that he said he''d seen him in the city for a bit.


    But before thinking about it, Opal jumped into Claude''s chest.

 73 43. Reunion

    "Claude, do you know where we are?


    "Of course. You''re beside Opal."


    I could tell by the signs that Claude laughed like a prank.


    Opal sighs in awe.


    "How are you going to get home?


    "I just met you because of this, and you''re telling me to go home already?


    "Claude, don''t be ridiculous. This is the middle of nowhere."


    "It''s our territory, nominally."


    Blurry Claude was strange and Opal laughed.


    The eyes that have grown accustomed to the darkness capture Claude''s appearance, even if only by starlight.


    I wanted to be sweet about my nostalgia, but that''s where Naja strained herself by striking a turnaround.


    I''m sorry I woke you up, though you''d be tired.


    "How long have you been in this land?


    "Five days ago? I was in a hurry when I heard Opal was headed for the Duke''s Lands. I knew Opal would definitely inspect mines around here. This place seems to be understaffed for 10,000 years, so they hired me right away."


    Claude laughed and answered Opal''s whispering question.


    Whatever Claude looks like now, he just looks like a miner.


    The Duke''s appearance was totally on the board these days, but I''m probably so familiar with it because I''ve had similar experiences in the past.


    Claude won''t tell me more about the past, but I guess he''s been having a really hard time.


    And this is how I still throw myself in danger.


    "... I wonder how many people you''ve sent in the last few years"


    "Come on, I wonder"


    "I wish I was playing a proper positive role."


    Squealing Opal''s hand, Claude mumbled softly to apologize.


    The hands are rough and rough.


    "Claude, are you sure you''re okay?


    "It''s okay. Even Opal knew I was coming and he was opening the window, right?


    Turning his back on Claude, who deliberately misanswered the question, Opal lowered his back to the bed.


    Encourage him to sit by pounding next to it.


    "Just in case. Because the windows here are rattling. I didn''t think you were really coming."


    I thought it was almost impossible, but Claude has always liked to surprise Opal.


    So I opened the window just a little bit so I wouldn''t make a sound.


    "This is a letter to Opal. I''m sorry, but I read the contents first."


    "Thank you, Claude. It''s not bad. I was telling them to do that because I might not be able to read it."


    "... thanks, Opal"


    Claude gave out two letters, hugging Opal and then getting up.


    And head quietly to the window.


    "Be careful, Claude"


    "Don''t worry about it. I''ve been trained by princesses since I was a little girl. And I feel sorry for you for not being cool enough to rescue me."


    "Oh, I''ll be ready for you next time."


    Out of the way, Claude kissed Opal by drawing him across the window frame.


    Claude looks seriously at the suddenly surprising cheek-dyed opal.


    ''Cause I''m gonna help you.''


    With that said, Claude stood up with his feet on the window frame and jumped straight up.


    As Opal peeks outside, Claude disappears onto the roof.


    "- I didn''t think you were coming from the roof."


    "Naja, were you awake?


    "You''ll wake up just fine. But you had your back pointed properly. I haven''t seen anything."


    Naja appeals with her eyes covered with both hands.


    The figure was cute and strange, and Opal erupted.


    The truth is I was worried Claude was able to get off the roof safely, but I just have to believe it''s okay.


    "I''m sorry I shut you up"


    "You don''t have to apologize. I can''t believe you had a husband, because from time to time! You were right about your wife!


    "Right. Damn, you''re going to be impotent."


    "I''m sure your husband will think the same thing."


    Naja replied softly to Opal''s blur, which seemed a little angry.


    That was shooting too hard, and Opal was about to erupt again and held his mouth in haste.


    It seems suspicious to make me laugh at such a time.


    That brought tears to my eyes, but I could blame myself for laughing.


    I was really anxious, even as I behaved in a temperament.


    Above all about myself, whether Claude will be safe or not.


    Although it is difficult to say that we are safe with each other, they stay close.


    And he''s letting me fight with him by believing Opal.


    "Are you okay? Do you think I can sleep again?


    "Yes, because I''m good at sleeping"


    Opal, who re-entered bed for tomorrow, asked Naja.


    Then I get a healthy reply.


    Even after saying goodnight greetings again, Opal stared into the dark without closing his eyes.


    (With the information that the anti-Kings are finally coming to an end, His Majesty is going to move before then. So you showed up in good time and you used me for a positive move)


    It was hard to think about, but in the end, it was a simple story.


    Though understaffed, Claude could have been hired so much, I guess, because a bunch of spies are already in.


    That is why Opal was not opposed to coming to the Duke''s territory either.


    However, it can also be seen from earlier attitudes that using opal was a bitter choice for Claude.


    Claude''s crummy face I found out even in the dark.


    I let that look on Claude''s face, so I still have to pay Alessandro a visit.


    Then you might want me to bow my head and say thank you.


    (That''s right. If you think I just move as a pawn, it''s a big mistake)


    I don''t have to confirm the sender of the letter I received from Claude. I know both.


    I want to check the contents quickly, but that has to wait until it gets bright.


    As he exhaled loudly to calm his deviant feelings, Opal closed his eyes to sleep.

 74 44. Fort

    "Hey, did you sleep well last night?


    "... Julian, are you free?


    "I''m not free. Anyway, they''re keeping an eye on the important hostages."


    "You''re free."


    Opal uttered sarcasm to Julian, who brought in breakfast.


    Of course I didn''t expect Julian to get mad at me for that, but I wasn''t expecting a fun smile back.


    Opal, while answering, looked seriously at Julian with vigilance.


    Naja just tasted like breakfast.


    "Are you in a good mood? That''s disgusting."


    "Say whatever you want. I''m not riding your provocation. But I dare you to tell me. The anti-Kings are gathering around the capital with their weapons. They said they didn''t even notice."


    Surprised by Julian''s words, a spoon falls from Naja''s hand.


    But Opal just flaunted his shoulder small.


    "I''m sorry to hear that. So, how many soldiers do we have to raise simultaneously? The King''s capital has knights and royal armies under His Majesty''s command? Half-breed people just end up failing."


    "What are you going to do with the numbers? You want me to write you a letter? I don''t mind. I won''t be able to make it."


    "Oh, I''m running off. Even if we don''t make it, isn''t it unnatural that the fact that I sent you that letter remains? I wonder if it would have been better to take me to the king''s capital and shield me than to keep me in such a despicable land."


    "In the king''s capital - you have little value against Alessandro. You''re a hostage to Claude."


    "... I see. This place - the Duke of Botzelli is going to be a fortress of anti-kings when it comes to trouble. Does that mean that even ships for retreat are available in case you think about the harbor of Wang Du? The port of Pasma is very convenient, isn''t it? I can raise my fortune and accept support from the Kingdom of Soci��t��."


    "... it''s time to shut up. The chatty one looks stupid."


    "You''re stupid and cool. So I was wondering if you could bring me another book to study?


    "You''re a troublesome one."


    "It''s not for nothing, is it?


    To Opal''s busy tone, Julian hummed her nose and left the room.


    It sounds locked at the same time.


    The deeply exhaled opal noticed Naja blued there.


    "I''m sorry, Naja. You scared the shit out of me. But don''t worry, it''s okay."


    "But he said there are soldiers gathered in the Wang capital... I''m also worried about that, but what the hell happens to your wife if that soldier sneaks into this land!? Again, my husband and you two. But we should be returned to the Kingdom of Socieux!


    "... Naja, if you feel you''re in danger, I want you to make sure you''re safe."


    "I won''t do that!


    Naja, who looked anxious, apparently aroused herself in Opal''s words and strongly refused.


    But Opal shakes his head quietly.


    "If anything were imminent, there would be plenty of people out there who could help me. Because as Claude has infiltrated here, so many allies seem to be in the land. But I think Naja''s going to be second to none for them, even though it''s harsh."


    "Naturally."


    "Naturally, I don''t like it. Because Naja is very important to me. I''m sorry I got involved."


    "No, no. You don''t have to worry about your wife. Because I have no complaints whatsoever. Instead, I''m glad I''m on your wife''s side now. I don''t want to worry from afar anymore."


    Naja complained in tears.


    While I was married to Hubert, I''m sure he was worried.


    That''s why he''s been serving me by my side ever since I married Claude.


    "Then promise me something for me. If anything happens, he''s gonna give himself priority and run away."


    "... ok"


    Perhaps, Opal was relieved by Naja''s acceptance.


    It is certain that something will happen soon and Opal will be pulled out of this attic.


    The move ahead can be anticipated because Claude came to see me last night until he took the risk, and Julian was talking willingly.


    Opal hurried to his desk and wrote the letter using a note Julian had brought up on his own.


    "Your wife?"


    It was Naja confused by Opal''s sudden behavior, but she stopped speaking out when she was immediately disturbed.


    It was a waste of time to review it, and when I sealed it in my letter, Julian came with a new book.


    "Julian, would you please send out this letter?


    "Dude, did you really write that?


    "That''s sweet of you."


    Julian seemed frustrated with Opal''s attitude, but received it as if he wanted to pull a letter.


    He''s not willing to rebut what he said from himself.


    "Well, ma''am, at best take your time with this book."


    "Yeah, thanks. That would help."


    Never mind Julian''s dislike, Opal saw the title from several books and picked one out.


    After glancing at such an opal, Julian trailed an empty breakfast vessel or something and left the attic with a letter.


    Of course I didn''t seem to forget to lock it.


    Naja looked anxiously at the door.


    "... Naja, do you think Claude will leave me in this attic without a chance?


    Naja turned her eyes round to Opal''s inquiry, then smiled.


    Apparently I could lighten my anxiety a bit.


    "That''s right. If your husband is in danger to your wife, you''ll never leave her, will you?


    It''s not that far.


    From getting engaged until getting married, Claude was beside Opal so much that he was overprotective.


    Opal laughed and denied Naja''s words as he watched her.


    Ever since we came to this country - since we glanced at Alessandro - we have often made it our priority to do what we have to do with each other to stay away.


    But it''s Opal''s choice, and Claude respects it.


    Opal renewed his determination to play his part firmly for this country, above all for Claude.

 75 45. Lies

    "Hey. Hey. Looking good, Duchess."


    "I''d love to see you look good."


    "Oh, you''re not in the mood."


    "Can we be stuck in a place like this and stay in a good mood?


    "Sure a place like this would be narrow on the Duchess, but be patient for a while now"


    Opal replied to Cole''s greeting with a peek in his face in the attic in such a way as to make him uncomfortable.


    Cole, who got that response, is in a good mood, and Julian, who stands behind him, smiles.


    More than ten days had already passed since Opal was trapped, and I just thought it was time for some movement.


    "That''s good news. No, it''s sad news for the Duchess."


    Cole is so happy that he''s going to rock his big body and dance even now.


    Opal stared at the figure without even a dust and waited.


    But Cole doesn''t look like he cared either.


    "There have been rumours all over the country that my impudent Duchess couldn''t stand the despicable Duke of Botzelli and fled with a man in search of inspiration. It just doesn''t seem so surprising to everyone."


    "Rumors like that are still out there. Even Claude... the Duke doesn''t believe me."


    Opal answered with his jaw raised steadily.


    I laugh slightly at the opal that strengthens me, not only Cole, but even Julian.


    Naja looked worried about Opal.


    "It''s the Duke, but he''s terribly missing."


    "Liar!


    Unlike his previous attitude, Opal stood up surprised and strongly denied Cole''s words.


    Its face is blue, its hands trembling.


    Cole shook his neck sideways clouding his expression as if he were sympathetic.


    "No, unfortunately it''s true. I couldn''t stand the Duchess'' infidelity and let her go, or I headed to the Kingdom of Socieux to find her, but according to definitive sources, she was attacked by a bandit on her way back to the king''s capital and lost her life..."


    So he cut the words, and Cole glanced at Opal.


    Opal covers his mouth with both hands and looks as if he is suppressing screaming.


    "Of course, this information is down. For Alessandro, losing Roussel is quite a pain in the ass. If the nobles knew about this, Alessandro would turn it to the neutrals."


    "What... what are you talking about? Neutralists and all that should matter now."


    "Has the Lady been married to this country by Roussel for saying so? Anyway, Madame''s assets are enormous. As for Alessandro, he''d better have more money to fight us."


    Opal shook his head so many times that he didn''t want to believe it, he lowered his back to the bed like he was exhausted.


    Then Naja kneels at Opal''s feet and holds that hand as if to comfort him.


    "Thank you, Naja"


    "Wow, wow, was this story harsh on the Duchess? It will also be a lot of hard work, such as spending time in places like this. Depending on the conditions, we can get you out of this room."


    "... Conditions?


    "It''s no big deal. I just want you to write to me."


    "Again? Now to whom?


    "Of course it''s not Lucell. I can''t help but send it to heaven. It''s your father, Count Holloway, and your ex-husband, the Duke of McCloud."


    "Claude... the Duke of Botzelli is alive. And if you need funds, you can contact my trustee. You don''t have to write to the two co-owners."


    Opal managed to regain his mind and make it look like he was behaving in a temperament.


    That would have shown strength in Cole.


    In fact, if Claude hadn''t shown up in the attic about ten days ago, he might have seriously messed up rather than worried too much acting.


    That''s why Claude showed up unscrupulous.


    "We do need funds, too, but more than that, we need to make sure we don''t get sidelined from the Kingdom of Socieux right now. The Duke of McCloud seems to have gained a greater say in the Soci��t�� Royale these days. You know Count Holloway''s influence again, don''t you?


    "... so what do you want me to write?


    "You two - especially the Duke of McCloud - owe Alessandro. If the matter of man-test development was brought up four years ago, the Duke of McCloud would move within the Kingdom of Socieux in favor of Alessandro. So I want you to write it down so that you ignore Alessandro''s request."


    "Could the Duke of McCloud do me a favor? Even if you''re a co-owner, you''re already someone else now?


    As ridiculous as it sounded, Opal glanced over his shoulder.


    Then Julian, who has remained silent until now, opens his mouth.


    "You just have to beg for your life. McCloud was rumored to still have you untrained. That''s why you think your remarriage story with Countess Ruffon was crushed, too? I''m sure he''ll be happy to give you some money."


    "... could there be such a ridiculous story? I guess I''m running off with you, huh? So you think the Duke of McCloud will move? In the first place, I wonder if my father, Count Holloway, could move for my daughter, even though he wouldn''t make any money?


    Opal inquired, staring at Julian.


    Without such a gaze, Julian strapped her shoulders to imitate Opal.


    "Unfortunately, my escape with you ended in failure. Yeah, well, we should say we got caught by the anti-Kings around Pasma Harbor."


    "So, if you can stop the ransom - no, I''ll be fine if I can stop the Soci��t�� Kingdom."


    "You''re as smart as ever. But don''t worry, I still have to withdraw the money from you. Don''t worry about your life."


    "Life..."


    Cole didn''t seem to pinch his mouth to a conversation like Opal and Julian''s argument.


    But haha laugh out loud and block.


    "No, that''s right. Julian only has Lord Connally''s eyes on him. He seems to be brave and smart. - Well, can you prepare the letter I mentioned earlier by this evening?


    "What if I don''t write?


    "It''s not just your life we''re holding."


    With an unpleasant laugh, Cole glanced at Naja.


    Naja stares back.


    "If my husband is still strong, does he even look like a samurai"


    Squirting like a solitaire, Cole once again walks out of the laughing attic.


    Following that, Julian put her hand on the door and stopped her leg once.


    "Hurry up. Tomorrow there will be an anti-Kings soldier in the King''s Capital. I have to deliver your petition to the McClouds before it pays off."


    Naja screamed small at Julian''s words.


    But Opal stared at Julian and smiled.

 76 46. Letter

    "Dear Opal! What shall we do!?


    "It''s okay, Naja. They''re right. I''ll write to you."


    "But..."


    "Don''t worry, nothing will change because I pleaded in a letter. The Kingdom of Socieux does not bother to move for the Kingdom of Tysey. That would have happened eight years ago, wouldn''t it? Neither my father nor the Duke of McCloud would do anything for the kingdom of Tysey."


    "That''s complicated. Your wife''s life is at stake..."


    Opal replied calmly to Naja, worried.


    Then Naja swells her cheeks in dissatisfaction this time.


    The figure was adorable and Opal laughed with a low voice.


    It really cheers me up when I''m with Naja.


    What you did to me in this room was enough to thank Julian.


    "It''s not every laugh ~. If your wife acted too awesome and didn''t know about that night, I must have cried out"


    Naja laughs as she complains.


    The two of us chuckled for a while, but Naja clouded her expression all the time.


    "But is it really okay? I know that your husband is safe, but the King''s capital is... will His Majesty be safe?


    "Right. You''re not going to have to worry about it all, but you''re going to have to believe it''s okay. Their information is already wrong in the first place, isn''t it? There''s Claude here who was attacked by a burglar and was supposed to have lost his life. We all do what we have to do, so I have to do it too."


    Encouraging Naja, Opal turned to his desk.


    Even if Opal hadn''t bothered to plead in a letter, my father would not, of course, want Hubert to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, etc.


    That''s why Cole spells out the sentence the way he wanted it to.


    Naja sat by the window and began to fix Opal''s dress.


    When Opal signed the letter to his father, he stopped and thought.


    I was wondering what I would do if I were in Alessandro''s shoes.


    First of all, there must be information on simultaneous bees.


    Instead, there''s no way that someone as cunning as Alessandro doesn''t realize anything of that magnitude.


    It was stranger why the anti-Kings didn''t notice about it.


    (You''re saying it''s better to control information than force rather than money...)


    I recall Claude owning a newspaper.


    Alessandro will probably be holding back other information media as well.


    (The masses will be on His Majesty''s side, won''t they? Just a part of the central aristocracy and the people of the Duke of Botzeri.)


    They say the ostensibly anti-Alessandro nobles are eliminated, but I don''t know how potential they are among the neutrals.


    Above all, I did not know how the Duke''s people, who were the strongholds of the anti-Alessandro faction during the civil unrest eight years ago, would move.


    At the time, the Duke of Botzelli also involved the inhabitants, with or without mentioning their presence as the head of the anti-Alessandro faction - although the battle was not actually fought - now the lords are also changing.


    The non-Connally - will Duncan, the servant and caretaker who has been kind to me at the consulate, also fight as an anti-Alessandro?


    Duncan doesn''t trust Opal, but he definitely cared about that land and people.


    (And I wonder if Claude is safe...)


    Human Claude seems okay so far, but he gets worried about the dog Claude.


    The servants were sweet on Claude, but Connally hated them.


    (No, I''m sure you''ll be fine. Something you shouldn''t even care about if you don''t get into Connally''s sight)


    The servants will surely hide Claude.


    Even that Duncan was adorable about Claude.


    Nevertheless, Duncan shouldn''t be the other way around.


    (I''m sure Duncan won''t allow that land to be a battlefield. But he seemed to respect the previous Duke, and he''s submissive to Connally...)


    Duncan had a boneless and harsh impression, but the trust from the inhabitants was thick.


    Even if it was Opal who propagated the Great Sickle, he wouldn''t be able to ignore Duncan and guide the people.


    Um, Opal thinks, I heard a patchy thread going off.


    "Ma''am, we''re done!


    "Naja?"


    "Bye! These pants are for your wife and grandmother only!


    "... Huh?


    Opal didn''t know what Naja''s words meant when she stood up and happily spread out what looked like pants to show.


    Ever since I was locked in the attic, Naja was fixing her dress when she wasn''t taking care of Opal - but she didn''t.


    There couldn''t have been a place to fix Opal''s dress the longer I spent thinking about it.


    "Uh... what do you mean by" wife "... no, pants?


    "Eh heh. Marcia told me. My wife used to break dresses when she was a kid when she was climbing trees."


    "Uh, yeah."


    "He had trouble with that, too, but he said he was wearing his brother''s pants under his skirt on his own if he cautioned that it wasn''t a good idea to be skirted climbing a tree or being run over. So I said," Wouldn''t this be a problem? ''You said it!


    "... that''s what happened."


    Opal, who was brought up with something black and historic, deflected his attention from Naja, who speaks with exasperation.


    Unaware of such opals, Naja continues confidently.


    "So you might be concerned about your skirt when your wife gets a love escape with her husband. But you wouldn''t mind wearing these pants in your skirt, would you?


    "... right"


    I can''t care less about my skirt turning in a stuffed situation, etc., but I guess it made me think naja.


    It was just subtle that Naja thought I was your grandmother even in this year.


    It is not an escape of love in the first place, but, normally speaking, an escape.


    "... I''ll wear those pants tomorrow."


    "Yes!"


    I can''t resist wearing pants, so I decided to let them use it just starting tomorrow.


    Naja replies with pleasure.


    Perhaps Opal should be brought back from here to the port or consulate of Pasma in the future, where he will have the opportunity to flee.


    In doing so, pants may help.


    But I couldn''t have misjudged whether I should honestly run away or obey.


    If there was an anti-Kingship uprising in the King''s Capital - there would be for sure, but how would Alessandro move then?


    Cole''s belief in the information that Claude was attacked by a burglar and lost his life in the first place means that was the plan.


    I wonder what the person who can make Claude look like a burglar and attack him is doing now.


    With this in mind, Opal sealed his letter to his father and the Duke of McCloud.

 77 47. Boredom

    "Ma''am, would you like a cup of tea?


    "I''ll take it. Thank you, Naja."


    Five days after Opal and Naja were transferred to the port of Pasma.


    No difference, Opal was spared time.


    But it''s just the Opals, and the Coles, the anti-Kings, are moving irritably and restlessly.


    It''s already been eight days since the rebels rose up in the Wang capital, but there''s been no progress report.


    "I can''t believe we haven''t heard from the harbor near Wangdu, even though the ship will arrive in three days. It takes more land, so I wonder if Connally''s walking around in that precious Pearl Palace."


    "What the hell is going on? Besides, is your husband okay?


    "Claude would be fine. But you couldn''t get away with Claude wearing the pants that Naja made for you."


    "I haven''t given up hope yet. I''m sure your husband will show up to grab your wife!


    "Then Naja will have to run away with you."


    Opal let Naja try to close one eye like a prank.


    To make you think that''s all you can afford.


    In fact, Opal was optimistic about the current situation.


    There are constant watches, day and night, both outside the windows and outside the doors, so it is not possible for this room to pass on trees and escape even upstairs.


    But Opal decided it was not necessary.


    I wish I could wait here.


    According to Julian''s plan for the rebels, if the simultaneous beeping fails, the soldiers will still flee the harbour to this port of Pasma by boat and fight standing on the Duke of Botzeri territory.


    In the last civil unrest, the mountainous areas, which became the boundaries of the Duke''s territory, turned into natural fortresses and only blockaded the harbour successfully.


    For this reason, I guess I intend to use a similar hand this time.


    At the time, the failure to sweep away the anti-Alessandro faction was also due to the judgment that deep pursuit was dangerous.


    But there''s no way Alessandro''s ever been hit with the same hand again.


    What we now know is that, over the past four years, we would have made it look like we were about to embark on a territorial reform, sending a lot of talent behind it to the Duke of Botzeri territory.


    (Really, you used it well...)


    Opal was beginning to move for territorial reform only because of his assets as well as his track record.


    In short, before I went to the mine to inspect - from the time I entered the Duke of Botzelli''s territory, I played a positive role.


    But it can also be assumed that without danger - it is because we are in a state where safety can be fairly guaranteed.


    "- Why! Why didn''t the soldiers get to the harbor if the bee failed!?


    "Oh, that''s so frustrating to shout so loud."


    "Ma''am, you''re saying that Mr. Cole failed to bee up?


    Opal and Naja looked at each other in the yell of Cole heard from the next room.


    Opal smiles, and Naja can flaunt her face with joy.


    "As Claude escaped the raid and showed up at Lead Mine, I think the rebel plans are probably failing here and there. But the information was being manipulated so that it was working. You finally got this news here through the land. Connally will be cuckooing by now."


    "So you''re saying no rebels are coming to Pasma Harbor?


    "Definitely first. In the first place, there''s no way we can have soldiers standing by at a port near Wang Du. Even if he disguised himself as a merchant ship or something, His Majesty the King would soon notice. And... well, I''d either hold the crew or I''d do something to get my allies to dive in and break the power of the ship and wait for the rest of us to come aboard."


    "You''re the one with the whole grip!


    "Yes."


    Naja answered sparkling her eyes, as she had also heard in the story.


    Opal nods to affirm.


    "Perhaps the sea - the port of Pasma should also be sealed off so that they are not known to do so. So the Coles won''t be able to escape to the ocean any time soon. Of course..."


    Opal tried to say even more, but shut his mouth when the door to the room suddenly opened.


    Julian''s cheek, which came in with a basin of meals, is swollen.


    "Did you get hit?


    "Your husband seems to be in a bad mood"


    "Oh no... shouldn''t we just chill right away?


    "Leave me alone."


    Julian shook her right hand naggingly toward Opal, who stood up trying to wet her handkerchief.


    Naja, who tried to receive the basin, gets angry at that attitude.


    "Julian, your wife''s worried about you, but you''re being rude."


    "Are you going to get me worried and add to my belly?


    "Don''t say anything stupid, let''s cool it down anyway"


    Opal tried to hit Julian''s cheek with a wet, squeezed handkerchief.


    Julian grabs the hand.


    "You can afford a lot. What if you''re worried about people?


    "You can''t afford a lot. Why don''t you give up?


    The inner collapse is about to begin.


    "Isn''t it already started?


    Julian let go of Opal''s hand so he could push it away, humming his nose.


    Naja supports Opal in a hurry.


    "Hey, Julian!


    "You keep your husband''s busy mouth shut. It makes people annoyed."


    Julian answered Naja''s protest and left the room.


    Handkerchief remains unused, in Opal''s hands.


    "Already! I''m really pissed! Ma''am, are you okay?


    "Yeah, I''m fine. Thank you, Naja."


    Standing upright, Opal put a wet handkerchief on the edge of the washer.


    Then stop Naja, who tried to clean up.


    "Shall we have dinner first? It doesn''t taste good when it''s cold."


    "... Yes"


    Now Naja is too free, and when it comes to fun, it''s only about rice.


    For that reason, I followed my honesty and arranged a meal at the table before sitting across from Opal.


    Naja decided to accept Opal''s invitation, although she would not be allowed to take the same seat as her husband.


    "I guess the Coles finally realized the sea was sealed off. And I''m so frustrated that I can''t help beating Julian."


    "So, did your wife know from the beginning?


    "Make it land, make it sea, keep the supply route going is the basics of the war. Conversely, no matter what happens, we have to secure the supply route. That doesn''t mean the rebel commanders are so unfamiliar with the battle or have already lost the intelligence battle."


    "Information warfare......"


    Naja muttered as she swallowed Opal''s words.


    Looks like he swallowed the bread in his mouth with it.


    Opal smiled at the appearance and included fruit liquor in his mouth.


    Only at dinner does Julian bring fruit liquor.


    That''s true for tea, but Julian used to care for me.


    "Eight years ago, at a time of confusion because of the plague, this country developed into a civil unrest in a battle for succession to the throne. What a foolish thing to do from me, but the people of this country - those who think of the people of this country - would have thought so in particular. But at that time, His Royal Highness the Prince, who said something comfortable in his ear for the people - apart from authenticity, His Royal Highness the Prince was the flag. After that, there was a man with the mighty power of the Duke of Botzelli. But now?


    "Huh? Oh, speaking of which, who is the greatest of the rebels? It''s not Mr. Connally or Mr. Cole, is it?


    "Yeah, they can''t lead the rebels. And as we do not know, the majority of the rebels do not know their generals"


    "That would be unmotivating for me. I enjoy my job because I''m for your wife."


    "Thank you, Naja"


    Opal thanked Naja for her words, tearing the bread and putting it in her mouth.


    After all, that''s what this is all about.


    Each rebel commander will know exactly who the mastermind is, but if you try it on the soldiers, you will point your sword at the king without knowing very well.


    There''s no way that''s going to boost morale.


    As a rebel, it must have been on my back that I moved not to be distracted by the Alessandro as much as possible.


    "So, does His Majesty the King know? What about your husband?


    "You definitely know that. Probably got certainty when Claude returned to the Kingdom of Socieux with me."


    "In the Kingdom of Soci��t��?


    "Yep. That''s why Claude couldn''t come with me to this Duke''s territory, and he showed up at Reed Mine when he died"


    That''s what Opal smiled happily.


    It was like a child''s smile when the prank succeeded, and even Naja, who didn''t know why, was happy.

 78 48. Hostages

    "It''s been busy a long morning, but I guess there''s been some movement"


    "Ma''am, are you really going to be okay with being so relaxed?


    "Because it may not be okay, see?


    Opal, who was reading the book at the end of his time, let the softening naja turn her skirt.


    With eyes on the trousers worn in it, Naja erupts.


    "Ma''am, when were you prepared? I didn''t realize."


    "Not long ago. When Naja was out of the room with Julian. Trousers are handy. You can wear it by yourself."


    "It really is, isn''t it? I, I think I always envy men. Not just outfits."


    "Well, men will have men''s struggles,"


    Opal stood up as they laughed at each other and soothed.


    Then we head to the window.


    "Naja should be ready, too. ''Cause I think it''s time for some movement here."


    "Wow, I get it"


    Naja wasn''t as decent as Opal either, but she was making pants.


    It was persuaded that Naja would also run away with it, which she sewed with Opal in one day.


    I''m glad you made it, because I was supposed to move the next day, and it was something I laughed at in Opal and the carriage.


    Opal is definitely more nervous then.


    Naja, who felt that way, was ready in a hurry.


    "In the days of the former Duke of Botzeri, this city of Pasma was a stronghold of anti-Alessandro, so you must have thought it was still under rebel control"


    Opal muttered to no one as he looked out the window.


    Naja approached the window and looked out, breathtaking.


    "Ma''am..."


    "I wouldn''t have wanted to bleed if I could..."


    Opal squeezed his hands tightly as if he was in pain.


    Outside the window - the boulevard to the harbor is filled with many soldiers.


    It was Naja who was frightened when she saw the soldiers, but her face shined when she saw their uniforms, the flags they were flying.


    "It''s the King''s Army! Ma''am, Your Majesty is here to help!


    "Nevertheless, we are captives. Naja, are you ready?


    "Of course!


    When Naja answered well, trembling, the door opened in momentum.


    And it wasn''t just Julian who came in, but some soldiers - soldiers on the rebel side.


    "Hey, princess. It''s finally time."


    "... I''m tired of waiting"


    "You''re still the mouthless one."


    Julian gives instructions to the soldiers with one hand when she shows her spare time and laughs.


    On the way, the soldiers detained Opal and Naja, who were by the window.


    "My lady!"


    "It''s okay, Naja. If you act calm, you''ll be fine."


    Naja was restrained by two soldiers, but only with her arms grabbed.


    Opal, however, tied his arms with rope and handed them over to Julian.


    "Coward."


    "Whatever."


    "My lady!"


    "Don''t worry, Naja. Because I''ve practiced this so much."


    Grabbing the rope and ramblingly pushing Opal''s back, Julian remained smiling like a fool.


    I really hated Opal for this Julian grin.


    Hide that feeling. Opal also smiles sparingly again and speaks to Naja, who worries.


    But as soon as she left the room, Naja was blocked in the mouth and taken in a different direction from Opal.


    "Hey! What are you going to do with Naja!?


    "Why don''t you worry about yourself first, ma''am?


    "Don''t be ridiculous"


    "You''re the only one Mr. Cole and the others need, aren''t you? Be quiet and stay hostage."


    When I heard Julian''s words, I thought Opal was right and obeyed quietly.


    All those Kings had filled the boulevard, so there shouldn''t be any more escape for the Coles.


    Then we''ll have to take Opal as hostage and get out of this land.


    If you want to escape afterwards, the lead mine or the Duke''s consulate...


    (Perhaps the lead mine is already under Claude''s control. The only thing that doesn''t pay off is that the rebels don''t know? Or do I just not know?


    Claude can''t possibly fail. - That can''t happen.


    Opal told himself so and thought about the actions of the cornered Coles.


    The King''s army must have entered the port of Pasma with the rebel flag raised.


    If you then think you quickly took control of the harbour, the railroad should also be held back again.


    (But with me, you can free the station and escape to the consulate where Connally and the others are. I don''t know how big of a soldier the Connally are, but if they join us, it''ll be a pain in the ass...)


    When Opal thought about it, he made footsteps and Cole came.


    Its complexion is bad and the sweat is erupting.


    "Julian! We''re surrounded here!


    "You don''t have to worry about it. I''ll open the breakthrough."


    Cole seems to have calmed down slightly to Julian''s words without a rush.


    I look at Opal and get a relief look.


    "I thought I should just kill you, but I was still right about what you said."


    During an inspection of the lead mine, Opal followed Julian without resisting, wondering if the cheap proposal to make Opal look like an accident and kill him was Cole.


    "So, what are we going to do?


    "Of course we negotiate. Hostages must be used effectively."


    "What''s in it?


    "Open the station, prepare the train, and we''ll rendezvous with Mr. Connally."


    "But if you come after me..."


    "You can drop explosives on the tracks from the rear of the line. You''re good at breaking things, aren''t you?


    "I see. You just have to buy some time and wait for reinforcements in the meantime."


    "Yeah, we have to get the system in place."


    Now it''s like Julian is the commander.


    Opal saw Cole as he listened to the conversation between the two of them, but he didn''t seem to notice anything about it.


    And when they pulled the rope, and stepped out of the inn, before the inn it was spread out so that the king''s army could surround it.


    But Opal had only one person in his eyes.


    "Claude......"


    "Hey Opal. You''re late again to pick me up."

 79 49. Escape play

    "Hey, why are you alive?!?


    "I''m back."


    "Oh, no, that''s stupid! Yeah! No! You can''t see this situation! If you don''t get out of there, there''s no life for this woman!


    It was Cole''s roar that watered down the emotional reunion because of it.


    Cole is poking his knife at Opal with his shivering hands.


    Claude looked at the figure and then raised his hands.


    "You''re so cowardly to take a weak woman hostage."


    "Who''s weak?


    Julian erupted into Claude''s words.


    Opal glanced at Julian, but of course it had no effect.


    "... what''s the demand?


    "Way to get to the station without harming us."


    "Naturally, make sure you can use the train."


    Claude was still staring at Opal as he listened to Cole''s gruesome demands.


    Opal also stares back quietly.


    "- Okay. Let''s make demands."


    "Heh...?


    "Fool, you are. You''re letting us get away with this for one guy? I wonder what Alessandro would say?


    He''ll agree with you.


    "You''re full of idiots."


    When Claude acknowledged, Cole made a dumb voice just saying he couldn''t believe it.


    It was Julian who reacted instead, and Opal, angry at the word, tried to kick it out of his skirt.


    But I get caught up in it.


    That made me angry again, and I glanced at Julian.


    "Look, the princess is angry. Hurry up and get the carriage-- No, can you get the train ready?


    "... Opal, are you okay?


    "I''m perfectly fine. I''m very angry, though. When I was free, there were two people who wanted to beat me up."


    "Let it be."


    Ignoring Julian''s words in a ridiculous tone, Claude asked Opal.


    Of course it''s not okay, but Claude seems relieved by Opal''s anger.


    He said he was still okay.


    Julian snorts at such an exchange.


    "Okay. Hey, let''s go, Julian."


    "... you''re a stupid man"


    Surprisingly, when Claude waved one hand, the soldiers surrounding the inn paved the way.


    Julian smiles at Claude like she made a fool of herself as Cole speaks.


    Opal''s loathsome grin, but Claude shrugged her shoulders without looking concerned.


    Cole poked me with a knife and it was hard to walk while I was tied with rope, but it wasn''t that far to the station so I managed to walk.


    Then I can get him on the train.


    The train didn''t seem to be ready to leave right away and we were going to wait for a while, but until then we were staring at Claude through the window.


    Eventually, when the train left, a loud explosion sounded in the rear.


    "You blew it up?


    "Yeah, that''s how I gave the instructions."


    "Well done, Julian!


    Seeing Cole rejoicing that no chaser would come with this, Opal thought it was simple.


    If the only railway in the territory of the Duke of Botzeli is destroyed, so is the chaser, but it takes time for reinforcements to rush.


    Are we securing other escape routes when the Alessandro army comes in again across the mountainous area of that natural fortress?


    Perhaps Cole hasn''t thought about it, but maybe Connally has something to do with it.


    I thought so, and Opal glanced at Julian sitting beside him.


    "Are you anxious?


    "... Naja must be safe, right?


    "It would be safer for her to stay away from you."


    In that reply Opal stared at Julian as he explored him, then missed his face in a grumpy manner.


    Keep looking out the window.


    The train is going well and will arrive at the station near the consulate after lunch.


    "... the people at the consulate... are all under Connally''s control?


    "The servant just needs to listen to the one above him. They don''t have the brains to think about it."


    Even the servants, who were approximate in the beginning, when Opal earnestly embarked on territorial reform, the female servants, including the housekeeper, had broken it down.


    I am worried about the servants brought from Wang Du''s mansion, but I am sure the housekeepers will shelter me as a fellow servant.


    Duncan didn''t bluff either......


    (No, you can''t. I can''t imagine Duncan taking my side.)


    The opposite is likely to be resented because the precious land could be a battlefield.


    It wasn''t just Connally''s argument, it was a reassuring element for Opal to be on the side of the people.


    - It''s like winning.


    "I was able to get out of all those King''s armies intact before. You can float, can''t you?


    "Intact? With that?


    The rebels on the train are happily making noise.


    But even a short distance to the station, there seemed to be a dispute here and there by the time the king''s army took control, and he had seen the bodies and blood of rebel soldiers who apparently took his breath away.


    Julian just flaunts his shoulder at Opal for pointing that out, and he doesn''t seem to be willing to embarrass the soldiers.


    "It worked this time because Claude was in command, but we don''t know what''s next, do we?


    "What, you knew Alessandro was a ruthless man?"


    "That''s right. The first Lord''s deputy here was sick and dead, but he was poisoned, wasn''t he? The second escaped when he realized he was poisoned and reported to His Majesty. So I guess the third one sent someone who could pretend to be well manipulated by Connally."


    "So, are you all right? You wouldn''t have been manipulated well, would you?


    "I''m not here because I was fine. I''m sure they didn''t even think it necessary to deal with her because she was a woman, or that Her Majesty had already turned her hand so that she wouldn''t be poisoned."


    Without a doubt, I guess Alessandro''s hand was stopping him from poisoning.


    That''s how he turned Connally''s consciousness against Opal.


    Opal doesn''t even know how much he turned to this Duke''s territory in that gap.


    (Well, now it''s time to get to the point...)


    Alessandro has been twitching and hunting down anti-Kings over the past four years.


    I wonder how many people have noticed that.


    The same goes for Opal, but Claude seemed to have played a positive role as well.


    "Here we are."


    "You don''t have to tell me. I know."


    "You''re not a cute one."


    "Now?"


    Opal, who had lost his mind, returned to me with Julian''s voice.


    But answer defiantly, tied with rope again.


    "Here, stand up."


    When the train stopped, Opal rose after a long time of rope pulling.


    And when Opal stood in front of Julian and got off the train, he boarded the carriage to the consulate again.

 80 50. Promise

    "Welcome back, ma''am"


    "I don''t like it, Connally. I''m tired, so please get me a bath."


    "Oh, no, ma''am, you don''t seem to understand your position."


    "I don''t know. Can you stay? With this look?


    Opal, who left the carriage tied with rope, was greeted by Connally.


    It''s like welcoming your mistress to the mansion, and I can tell you that she''s here to see Opal like no other.


    Apparently it was in the previous room that Opal was taken by Julian with him tied up, and not trapped in a dungeon. - I don''t know if there''s a dungeon.


    "Don''t think you can get away with it because you loosened the rope."


    "Everyone seems sympathetic to me, though?


    But I can imagine what it would be like to let you go.


    "... what happened to Claude?


    "I''m fine without you. Unlike their owners, they''re honest."


    That''s what Julian left the room for.


    For one thing, Claude the dog seems safe.


    Opal approached the window, dangling and shaking his relieved and freed arms, looking out.


    Doesn''t look like you have a particular lookout, but you won''t be able to escape.


    When Opal exhaled heavily, the door opened and the maids with hot water came in.


    "You''re taking a bath?


    "Yes, ma''am. Julian asked me to prepare it for you."


    "Oh well."


    I wondered if there was anything sweet about it once in a while Opal, but that also quickly turned into anger.


    Opal came in without a knock while he was bathing.


    "Hey! What are you going to do!?


    "Are you still in there, long bath?"


    "Wouldn''t that be the problem!?


    "Nothing. You don''t mean because I saw you naked, do you? He''s one of those people who ran off."


    "Don''t be silly!


    The ladies were surprised at Julian''s sudden intrusion, but were much more breathtaking in the words.


    Rumors of a run down seem to be telling here as well.


    I guess they don''t even know if that''s a lie.


    "I brought you a letter. Then take your time."


    "You suck! Pervert! Julian idiot!


    I threw an opal cursing murmur at Julian''s rear as he walked out with a flickering wave, but it didn''t work at all.


    You were too childish, the ladies were giggling.


    Opal laughs with me even though it''s a pressing situation.


    Then I could relax more than I was taking a bath.


    Opal, then up from the bath, deliberately took the letter Julian left behind.


    There were three letters in all, already sealed.


    "Well, naturally."


    The two came from their fathers, Count Holloway and Hubert.


    The content was a reply to a letter Opal wrote in the lead mine.


    It is clearly written from his father that he intends neither to speak nor to give money to a dispute within the kingdom of Tysey.


    It''s so paternalistic that Opal laughed unexpectedly.


    Hubert wrote that he cared about Opal''s body and that he would help whenever he wanted, and he wanted me to leave everything in the Kingdom of Socieux to him.


    Opal then extended his hand to the third pass.


    That was from Omer, and Connally apparently decided, as usual, that it was about farmland.


    In fact, the first two are about this year''s crop in the territory of the Duke of McCloud, and the next one contains advice to the territory of the Duke of Botzeri.


    And the fourth one had Omer''s recent status written on it.


    Opal''s face was flattered to find out about the butler Lind, the housekeeper Debbie, and everyone else.


    That erupted in the last sentence.


    There was a huge victory in the city of Novoli, and LeBeau won.


    ''In the last eight years the Duke of McCloud seems to have grown astonishingly'' as a message from that LeBeau.


    Besides, it even said, ''I''m sure it would have been a recoil laid on my ex-wife''s ass''.


    I''m pretty sure Connally read this letter, but if she''d even read it to Julian, she''d have laughed out loud.


    "It''s terrible to be Lubbo anymore."


    Even if you think about this, it''s about Reubeau you can put it in your mouth, but Omer who actually writes it is also terrible.


    Opal took care of the letter while complaining alone.


    These letters are addressed to the consulate of the Duke of Botzeli, so I wrote them after I found out that they would all be read by a third party.


    What I really want to know is it has arrived at the Marquis''s residence in Roussel, Wang Capital, and Claude has been giving it to me since he looked through it the other day.


    So both Claude and Alessandro knew that the Kingdom of Socieux would not move. - To be precise, Opal turned his hand so that no one in the Kingdom of Soci��t�� could move.


    This gave me back my thanks for man-testing development four years ago.


    Hubert also served me as Duke of McCloud for that.


    All you have to do is settle here.


    Opal had a good meal without leaving behind the dinner he was transported to, and he took his time drinking tea before going to bed.


    "Well, ma''am... please don''t let me get you down"


    "Yeah, I''m fine. Thank you. Good night."


    "- Yes. Good night."


    Smiling and thanking the samurai who inspires me, I greet her to bed and let her back down.


    While feeling sorry for betraying the gentle samurai, Opal opened his closet after a while.


    Remove the dress from which you can change by yourself and the pants you were sneaking off and hiding before the bath.


    Opal, who had finished dressing, had been reading the book for a while, but had his eyes on the clock several times.


    And when I checked the clock for the fifth time, I walked up to the window and gently opened the window.


    "Hey, princess. Now I''m here to help."


    "I''m tired of waiting, but the usual time is right"


    Whispering so, Opal hugged Claude, who came into the room.


    Claude hugged Opal again.

 81 51. Operational meetings

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 82 52. Traitor

    The next morning.


    Connally, surrounded by the king''s army, hesitated.


    The rebels who were letting them stay in the nearby villages were also unable to move forward the King''s Army, which suddenly appeared again, and had no choice but to surrender.


    "So, hey, why is that woman over there!? Julian! Where''s Julian!?


    Connally was surprised to notice that there was an opal next to Claude, but Julian never showed up.


    Cole wanders over and over with his heavy looking body looking for an escape.


    "No way, Lucell''s really here... dead...?


    "So I told you so!?


    "Can you believe what you''re saying! What does this number of soldiers mean in the first place!? The railroad would have been destroyed!?


    I answered Connally, wandering and whining, as Cole yelled.


    But soon Connally yelled back, and Cole only said, "Julian..."


    So Claude pinched his mouth, as he was frightened by the confused exchange.


    "My plan with Opal is to connect the mine, including the lead mine, to the port of Pasma by rail. Already ready ready for that, off the coast of the port of Pasma, there was a boat waiting with the technicians on board, as well as the materials. The rail damage caused by the blast has been repaired. Besides, he had a horse on board."


    "But... so many royal armies... no, reinforcements..."


    "You think you can beat His Majesty the King with the same hands as before? You''ve failed before?


    Claude told bumpy whining Cole to mock him and turned to Connally, who stared at him hatefully.


    The Claudes followed the Opals with horses first, and the infantry must have come after the repair of the tracks.


    Probably stopped the train in a place where I couldn''t hear the drive or anything, and from there it seemed to have traveled on foot.


    "Tell you what, reinforcements aren''t coming. Before controlling the port of Pasma, the rebels who had beeped up in the Wang capital had already surrendered. Now that we''ve held down the lead mine, no one''s gonna think we''re gonna help you guys lose your sources of funding, right?


    "Li, the lead mine is -!"


    "It''s a pile of treasure that produces more gold than lead, right? The former Duke turned against His Majesty Alessandro and developed into a feud, because he discovered the Golden Mine, didn''t he? And he seemed to be secretly exporting from a port that wasn''t on the map, but how long did he think he could keep that big thing hidden?


    "Oh, no..."


    Cole sat on the spot nagging like he was out of strength.


    Opal also looked at the map and felt as much about the existence of a secret harbor and the suspicion of a lead mine, so it was still a long prospect for the Claudes.


    Later I guess I was trying to figure out the time to hold it down.


    Connally scowls abominably at Cole, who is proud of his Golden Mountain for holding him back and completely losing his hostility.


    "His Majesty was also ahead of the army in the mountains. According to a contact I got in yesterday, the remaining soldiers who escaped were also captured. You''re the only soldiers left around the Duke''s consulate."


    "Why...... why did you find out!?


    "There was a traitor among you, just as there was a traitor among us. - No, should I say spy?


    Claude told them that it was no big deal to be hopeless for Connally and the others.


    Connally, who said he still couldn''t believe it, was annoyed by Claude''s response.


    And from between his biting mouth as if to rinse and gnash his teeth, he spewed out words of resentment.


    "Are you Julian... are you Julian!?


    "Julian? Oh, Opal''s runaway opponent"


    Claude tilted her neck when she heard Julian''s name and laughed out loud when she realized who she was.


    I don''t have a stomach, but even Opal freaks out about the reaction as expected.


    "I''m glad you''re laughing."


    "Hey, what! What are you laughing at! Damn!"


    Seeing Opal and Claude laughing unworthy of the place, Connally took a frustrating but several steps back.


    So I hit the soldiers, and I look back a lot.


    "What are you guys doing!? If you don''t stick around, why don''t you hurry up and get to him!


    "Oh, yeah! Look, fight! What are you guys here for!


    The call I got back to me after taking Connally''s orders also went on, but no one tries to move.


    The rebels are not particularly loyal to Connally or Cole.


    On the contrary, I guess I am not dissatisfied with King Alessandro either.


    The Connally didn''t have enough power to move the soldiers, it just seemed like they were in a position to command them as they came into being.


    "The crime of conspiracy is very heavy. But here and now, let''s consider you gentlemen who never set their swords on us. Drop your weapons now and surrender, and I promise you, as a great sinner, you will not be judged. It is up to you to make your choice. You don''t have to obey orders. Come on, what do we do?


    Claude''s voice, which often passes, seemed to reach everyone''s heart.


    Claude has the power to attract people, not Opal''s hiatus.


    Even Connally and Cole, who had called earlier, shut their mouths and the soldiers let go of their weapons without looking around.


    "Okay. Then, once I let you restrain me, I promise I won''t do anything wrong. So don''t run away, okay?


    Claude''s advice was more directed at Connally and Cole than at soldiers, but as expected, the two escaped.


    Even though there is no way they can escape in this situation, the two are pushing their own soldiers into the mansion.


    "Get out of the way, you little prick!


    "These cowards!


    Connally and Cole reached the mansion as they cursed and opened the front door.


    Then a dog claude pops out of the inside and pushes them both down with a stunning body hit.


    In the end, the two were seized by soldiers of the King''s Army who followed them.


    "Claude! That''s right, well done!


    I''ll hug and compliment Claude as she jumps on Opal with joy.


    Claude licked Opal''s face as he shook his tail.


    "That''s funny, I think I did a good job too, but you''re not getting compliments, are you?


    The human claude is blurry, as the majestic figure of earlier is a lie.


    Opal put his hand on his hip and stared at the human clade as he left the dog clade with his approaching servant.


    "You ask His Majesty for that."


    "It''s cold."


    "Claude, I''m still mad. To Your Majesty, and to you. So let''s put an end to this commotion, shall we?


    "So is that. I''ll take good care of your scolding later."


    Claude answered at his usual rate, but his face was very serious.


    One night alone is too little time to explain.


    But now we still have a lot to do with each other.


    "Opal, can I take care of the mansion?


    "Yes, of course."


    "Well, then, take the escort with you"


    Claude speaks to the knight who was beside him and orders him to elect about five Opal escorts, one after the other giving other instructions.


    The figure was still full of majesty and even Opal felt a little inclined to come closer.


    This is part of Claude Opal doesn''t know.


    Opal stared to observe Claude before taking the assembled escort to the mansion.


    I''m sure the mansion will be confused as well.


    Now that I''ve nabbed Connally, I can only think of one person who can rule the territory as well as the mansion.


    Opal took the dog Claude and the escorts and stepped into the mansion to find Duncan.

 83 53. Royal Palace

    Opal and Claude, who returned to the king''s capital by boat, went straight up to the royal palace.


    Claude said he wouldn''t mind just himself because he would be tired, but he wanted to accompany Opal that he was okay.


    The chaos caused by the rebels persisted in the royal palace.


    The governors seem busy moving around and the nobles are talking about secrets here and there.


    When they saw Opal and Claude uniformly, they were surprised and kept away from the smile of not saying whether or not they were two people trying to talk.


    "-Hey, Opal. Glad to have you back."


    "... I''m very afraid that you can waste your words on me and others like that."


    "You''re still angry."


    Alessandro spoke as if nothing had happened to Opal, who reported back to the capital in the same room he had first worshipped.


    Opal smiled and gently folded his knee and bowed his head, but his inner anger seemed to have been properly conveyed.


    Yet Alessandro is amused.


    "I forcefully decided to use it, and Claude was quite against it. So don''t blame Claude."


    "I don''t blame you for Claude. You took good care of my safety, didn''t you? But there is absolutely no such thing, so I don''t think I could be relieved. Still, Claude respected my will and allowed me to go to the Duke''s Lands."


    In short, Claude was respecting Opal''s will, not Alessandro, to which Opal replied with a smile.


    So he said he wasn''t mad at Claude.


    Opal continued with Claude''s said deep smile.


    "However, I regret that I could have stood around better if you had told me in advance"


    "No, it will be enough. What more could you possibly have done? But thanks to the help of the Duke of McCloud and his servants, we were able to cut off the rebels without interfering in the internal affairs of the Kingdom of Soci��t��."


    "I''m Omar, the land manager, and Lubbo, the financier."


    "Right. To both of them... especially those who call me Lubbo. Be sure to thank them. Anyway, he even grabbed clear evidence. Now we can finally cut them off. Yeah, let''s get something rewarded. Opal, do you have anything you want?


    "Then just one thing, may I ask you?


    "Oh, what?


    Of course Opal didn''t need a reward or anything.


    I will thank Hubert, Omer, and Lubbo well from Opal at a later date.


    Alessandro''s arrogant attitude was also necessary and I knew I had no choice.


    But it''s Opal''s creed to do what he decides to do once.


    If you look at Claude properly, you laugh as you read Opal''s feelings.


    "Then let me beat your majesty"


    "What?


    "You can have just one shot. Of course I don''t want anything else."


    Alessandro opened his eyes like he was taken aback, but then laughed out loud.


    Claude still has nothing to be surprised or stopped.


    "Fine. That made me feel scared and unfettered. If you think that you did that for this country, which is not long before you were married, there is nothing you can do to get hit with one or two shots. Come on, it doesn''t matter."


    That said, Alessandro offers his cheeks.


    So Opal moved forward a few steps, and as he approached Alessandro as he sat down, he clenched his fist and shook it down.


    "Huh!?


    "Opal, are your hands okay?


    "I''m wearing gloves, you''ll be fine."


    "Don''t be too impotent."


    "I''ve added and subtracted."


    Claude worries about Opal''s hand more than Alessandro, who holds his cheek to pain and gives in.


    Opal also tried to ignore Alessandro and let Claude, who was worried, open his hand and shake it.


    "... Claude"


    "Yes, what is it?


    "The person you''re worried about... is different..."


    "It''s natural to worry about a weak woman - his wife?


    Alessandro leaks dissatisfaction in pain.


    But instead of dealing with him, Claude sighed and began preaching.


    "You deserve it in the first place. If it''s true, I''d like to let you hit me about ten times, too, but I''m patient. Who''s in favor of cheating on his precious wife? You won''t, will you? Yeah, I didn''t. Because I''m not even against it. I took care of it, but I stopped you from joining Opal, didn''t I? I did all the assigned roles because Opal would want to. Please don''t be any more impotent. Otherwise I''ll be in exile."


    "... bad"


    "Well, that''s about it to forgive you. Shall we chill our cheeks, then?"


    When Alessandro mouthed what seemed like an apology reluctantly, Claude went to summon a squire to refrain in the next room.


    In the meantime, Opal was holding his mouth to indulge in laughter.


    "Is it so swollen that it''s funny?


    "Just a little...... But it''s not that noticeable. Unless it''s turned red."


    Opal was crazy because I haven''t heard Claude''s sermon in a long time.


    Opal used to be well preached as well.


    As Alessandro will know, he is deliberately obstinate.


    "You look like a couple."


    "Thank you"


    "I''m not praising you."


    "I''m still angry. That you had Claude attacked by a burglar. Other than that, Claude had a lot of dangerous things to do, didn''t he?


    "... I''m sorry. But you don''t regret it. I have a lot of flaws, but I''m confident in identifying people. I don''t do things without a chance."


    "Aren''t you complimenting me?"


    When Opal laughed, Alessandro laughed too.


    But soon I groan in pain.


    That''s where Claude came back.


    "Now, if you''ll excuse us."


    "Oh, I''ll see you tomorrow"


    "Yes, I did."


    "Please take care, Your Majesty. Now if you''ll excuse me."


    Opal also continued on Claude, who greets him out of the room.


    The squire, who has come into the room with ice and other things, is shouting surprises when he sees Alessandro''s cheek.


    "I hit the chair," Alessandro explained.


    "Opal''s hands need to cool down, too."


    "It''s okay."


    "It''s not okay."


    "... ok"


    I thought I didn''t need to chill without pain, but Claude wouldn''t give in.


    Looks like Claude of worry, and this time he decided to follow Opal as well.


    I know how worried Claude was while he was away.


    Opal was also full of worry and anxiety.


    It is a miracle that we can be next door now.


    Opal held Claude''s hand, not Claude''s arm, with his painless right hand.


    Then Claude seemed surprised for a moment, but immediately laughed out loud.


    Opal also laughed out loud again, as if he were a child, and the two joined hands on their way home.

 84 54. Evil

    The next day.


    "See you tomorrow", Alessandro said - the day has come to bring the rebel masterminds to justice.


    Everyone at Roussell Mansion was worried about Opal''s health, who had just returned to King''s Capital, but laughed and boarded the carriage, saying it was okay.


    That would also be because Naja has had a fever since last night and is still resting in bed.


    He was still tired and regretted that he could not accompany him.


    "That''s crazy. Why aren''t you all worried about me?


    "You know exactly what Claude''s life has been like. He said he rarely went back to the mansion and fluttered."


    "So..."


    "You don''t deny it."


    "I can''t."


    When Opal answered Claude''s blur, he was immediately convinced.


    Claude laughed at the shuddering opal.


    But soon I keep laying my hands on Opal''s hands.


    "But I''m not gonna fumble anymore. From now on, I''m going to live in relaxing territory with my beloved wife."


    "You don''t have to flutter, you don''t have to stay in the mansion much."


    "Right. We must proceed with the development of the Duke''s railroad."


    "We need to discuss next year''s planting with Duncan."


    We talked about each other''s future plans and laughed a lot.


    Duncan was found that day in the duke''s dungeon.


    Apparently, he rebelled against Connally and was captured by the rebels.


    The servants seemed to see how it was and decided to follow Connally in silence.


    Opal thinks that''s the right decision, so he ignores the consular servants - those who are not part of the rebels.


    As for the surrendered rebels, they were also to remain in the Duke''s territory and be engaged in railway maintenance work.


    We intend to treat them no differently than ordinary workers, except those in the upper echelons.


    Just plausibly put the watchman down.


    All of that was also something Claude had planned in advance and seemed to be ready for it before entering Duke territory.


    "It''s a shame the rebels were connected to the Marquis of Saimes in the Kingdom of Socieux. It''s regrettable to think that the money Omer poured into the past in the city of Novoli was also used to fund the rebels."


    "At the time, the Marquis wasn''t still cooperating that far, was he?


    "Yes, but..."


    When Opal whines with a sigh, Claude speaks comforting words.


    I know Opal had no choice, but it still didn''t change my anger.


    "His Majesty and I both thought that since the death of the former Duke - after the depletion of Silver Mountain - the source of funding was the robbery in the Kingdom of Socieux. So when I heard the bandits were caught, I was wondering why the funds were still moving on the rebel side. So I suspected that it wasn''t those dressed as bandits who were channelling money to the rebels, but the Marquis of Saymes... even if the Marquis was related to the former Duke of Botzeri, there can''t be any normal way to bother supporting him in his own interest."


    "Is that why you went back to the Kingdom of Soci��t�� to find out why? So it turns out that the output of Golden Mountain in the territory of the Marquis of Saymes has also fallen dramatically. And yet the reports of output to the country are almost the same as before, and I was just wondering, did you get to know the equally questionable lawyers?


    On his return to the Kingdom of Socieux, where he was both on a honeymoon and a comeback, Claude was moving around a lot to find out about the Marquis of Saymes and the bandits.


    I guess the reason I didn''t tell Opal was because I didn''t want to get involved in anything dangerous.


    But Opal noticed from what he had heard from Lubbo in the city of Novoli and what he had done by entering the Duke''s territory. - to the fact that the Marquis of Saimes and the rebels are connected.


    So Opal asked Rubo to investigate via Omer and ask Hubert to move again.


    As for the dark parts of the city of Novoli, you can find out if it''s true (...) or if it''s a (...) gold-lending Lubo.


    Just because the Marquis is behind it - and there is a Marquis Saymes who has been paying a large sum of money to the country until now, Reubeau wasn''t strong enough.


    So the Duke McCloud, who has paid more than the Marquis of Saymes over the past few years and has gained more voice in the Royal Palace, has helped to change the situation so that Lubbo and the lawyers can move freely.


    Marquis Saymes was paying a payment to the state until he imported it in secret to maintain his power in the Royal Palace.


    He was in a hurry that Hubert, more stately than himself, had risen.


    But ironically, Hubert was not power-oriented, and there was a strong sense of justice.


    For this reason, the long-standing injustice of the Marquis of Saymes seemed particularly unforgivable.


    Only a sense of justice has been strong for a long time, but it has probably remained lumpy in my mind that Omer had wronged me.


    "Omer has completely changed his mind now, and he didn''t commit murder..."


    "... thinking about McCloud?


    "I''m thinking about the evil of the Marquis Saymes."


    "Sure, I was surprised to hear about the Marquis of Saymes. It produced more gold than it had declared to the country for many years, and it smuggled them through organizations based in the city of Novoli. Besides, it sounds like some kind of story to me that it was actually the Marquis that bound the organization."


    "You really are, aren''t you? Well, in the Kingdom of Soci��t��, since his predecessors, the country has come to control the trade for ores and so on... At the time, there was a lot of backlash, but there''s no limit to human greed, even though there''s no such thing as an impossible tax."


    Opal sighed just when he was frightened.


    The Marquis repeated his do-it-yourself robbery play, also to exempt him from taxation while pretending to maintain output.


    Besides, I gave only a fraction of it to the bandits as a reward and scattered it in the city of Novoli, so the Marquis'' - the organization''s nostalgia doesn''t hurt.


    It was high time to kill and seal the mouths of those who knew what was going on.


    If I hadn''t been so greedy, I wouldn''t have even been exposed to the evils of the past.


    Nowadays, in the Kingdom of Soci��t��, the Marquis de Saimes is fussing over the use of an organization to smuggle money out to other countries and the use of bandits for a self-made robbery play.


    Former Marquis Saymes, who was stripped of his title and all his possessions were also confiscated, was imprisoned and apparently just waiting to be sentenced by poisoning.


    The letter that Claude delivered to me in that attic came from Hubert, and it was in detail.


    In short, the Kingdom of Soci��t�� has no time to interfere with the Kingdom of Tyssey.


    Naturally, there''s no way I can send reinforcements or anything from the former Marquis of Saymes to the rebels.


    All this information was also blocked by the rebels.


    "What''s the stupidest thing about this one is that it was usually more profitable to pay the state than the price of the gold the Coles were sending to the Marquis of Sayms"


    "Right..."


    Opal remembered Cole''s masterful expression back then.


    The Dukes of Botzelli went against Alessandro''s reign in the first place, also because, like the Kingdom of Socieux, they were aiming to create a system to govern the trade in products that were predominant in this country.


    And if you''d kept an eye open on what Alessandro has accomplished in the last four years, you wouldn''t have thought to have such a useless fight, etc.


    "Well, there''s no such thing as a greedy human being with so much difference."


    "What greed does Claude have?


    "I''m greedy. If I can see Opal''s delightful face, I''ll do anything in world domination."


    "I wouldn''t be happy about that. I just want to relax with Claude and everyone."


    "Opal''s hopes have been the same for a long time. So a little more, will you hang out to satisfy my greed?


    "Absolutely."


    Opal answered Claude''s query with a smile, and the carriage stopped.


    It is finally time to settle with the anti-Alessandro faction.


    Opal got off the carriage with Claude''s hand and started walking firmly forward.

 85 55. Growth

    The royal palace was noisier than usual and there were many.


    Anyone who enters the royal palace to conduct this judgment with openness and justice is allowed to be heard.


    For this reason there are not only nobles, but also those who work in the royal palace, and even those who do not work.


    Everyone is rumored to wonder who the hell was on the rebels and who will be brought to justice.


    And when I saw Opal and Claude, I gently paved the way and lurked my voice to continue the rumors.


    "Big day."


    "You won''t be able to get into the hall."


    "What about the people who can''t get in?


    "You said His Majesty would open all the windows and doors in the hall, so why don''t you peek from there?


    "You won''t see him."


    "That''s similar even if you put it in the hall."


    "So is that."


    I doubt he could even hear his voice, but Opal muttered a convincing word.


    And I asked him, "How dare you stay with the Duke? I wonder if an untrue person is thick enough for nerves," someone says.


    Apparently, he''s talking about running off.


    A dull laugh spread on the spot, but we both headed to the Great Hall without worrying.


    "Speaking of which, how is Julian doing?"


    "Don''t worry about him."


    "I''m not worried about you. But I knew Claude was hiding something from me again."


    "I''m not hiding it."


    Claude replied softly to Opal, who remembered Julian from rumors of a run down.


    Then I wish you could tell me first, but Claude is as mean as ever.


    Opal wrapped Claude''s arm around the meaning of the protest.


    "Stay!


    "Exaggerate."


    Stepping away from Claude, who deliberately raised his voice, Opal entered the holding room first.


    A samurai is in the room, and as soon as he sees the Opals, he goes on to prepare his tea.


    "Can I have a relaxing cup of tea?


    "It''s going to take a while, because it''s going to put the audience in the big hall, not the audience. Because you can rub it with people who want to hear it in a good place."


    I''m sorry about the clerk.


    "The center will be fine because the Kingsguard knights will consolidate. If you don''t obey, you''ll be forced out."


    "Well, it''s the audience that can rub each other."


    "Oh. That would have been another sight"


    "You''re mean."


    Opal laughed and answered, thanking the samurai for making the tea.


    Claude also gratefully grabs the cup again.


    The samurai bowed gladly and lowered to the corner of the room.


    Opal also tried to carry the cup to the opening with his hand, and the door suddenly opened without a knock.


    "Claude! What do you mean?!? My brother and father were taken into custody by a Kingsguard who suddenly came to the Mansion this morning!


    "... you two are rebel masterminds."


    "What a fool! How much mother is the daughter of the Duke of Botzelli, there will be enough for wet clothes!


    "Wet clothes or not, you''ll know from now on if you listen"


    Erik, Baron Prado, who suddenly entered the room, stuffed to Claude with the momentum intact.


    Apparently, he is surprised and unconvinced that his father, Marquis Bapot, and his brother Viscount Amadi Terri, were captured as rebel masterminds.


    I wondered if that was all Erik had been informed of anything - he wasn''t dealt with by Claude or his family, and Opal felt sorry for him.


    (Thinking and acting are things that haven''t grown up yet)


    The guilt of my father and brother was definitive, and Opal did not know only what cuts would be made.


    Even to Erik - even if there is no sin in his family, he will have to go down the path of misery from now on.


    But humans can change no matter how old they are.


    Erik should be able to grow again, just as Hubert stood well on this occasion and brought the Marquis of Saymes to justice.


    When Opal put the cup down with that in mind, Erik''s attention was directed.


    "It''s your fault! Everything''s gone crazy since you got here!


    "Erik, you..."


    "It''s okay, Claude! It''s okay, ''cause I''m used to it."


    Claude showed a moment of anger at Erik for pointing and blaming Opal.


    But soon Opal went in to stop him, so Claude would pull even though he bumped into me saying, "I''m used to it..."


    "Baron Prado, why don''t you grow up to be a good addition?


    "Become -!"


    "In your position, notice that each of your statements affects many. Remember that the words and deeds are seen and judged by many."


    It was Erik who protested Opal''s words, but he noticed that the samurai who refrained in the corner looked pale like she was frightened.


    Shut your mouth and look down to stare at Opal.


    The sound of a knock echoed into the room as Claude couldn''t stand the attitude and tried to speak out.


    The samurai turns to respond so as to escape and opens the door wide.


    "Duke and Duchess of Botzelli, it is your time. Please come to the Great Hall."


    "-Okay."


    Claude took a breath and then answered the samurai and stood up.


    Keep ignoring Erik and give Opal a hand.


    "Let''s go, Opal"


    "Yeah. Thanks, Claude"


    Opal also stared only at Claude and stood up and headed for the exit.


    So Erik finally returns to me.


    Erik seemed to be made to think by Opal''s words.


    Opal glanced back at the exit, hoping that Erik would take this as an opportunity to grow.

 86 56. Murderers

    Entering the Great Hall at the head of the samurai, many people had already gathered.


    Everyone seemed to be as busy talking rumors as ever, but admitting what the Opals looked like kept their mouths shut.


    But soon he started talking hiccups, so the whole venue was on purpose.


    People aren''t rumours of Opal running down from what they hear leaking, but to Erik, who came in later - they''re talking about Erik''s family, to be exact.


    I guess someone heard the morning commotion of the Bapot family from somewhere and spread it quickly.


    "You still love other people''s scandals,"


    ''Cause I feel like I can be at the top.''


    "Naja was sorry, but you''re right not to come to a place like this. Something that gets me into poison."


    "Is Opal really okay?


    "That''s the pimple."


    Opal was guided to a chair - a chair sitting on the upper side of the altar where the king was seated, letting his hands spread gently.


    That exaggerated trick caught my eye, but Claude laughs small without worrying.


    Still, both Opal and Claude went right back to their faces because they were worried about Naja.


    Naja got involved in this one, so I wanted her to see it through to the end if she wanted to.


    But I couldn''t let him, and he left the mansion promising to tell Naja exactly later.


    Opal glanced around at the gathered people.


    The listener stands by because no chair is available regardless of his or her identity.


    It was still only the aristocrats who were forming right next to the Kingsguard knights who stretched semi-oval around the altar to consolidate their protection.


    And Erik stood on the innermost side, even though he came in late.


    But no one tries to talk to Erik, who was all that popular.


    (Palm back in no time...)


    Those who have been in a slight mood until yesterday easily turn their backs and throw words of contempt and glances at them.


    Opal himself has been through it and has seen it many times.


    Erik was considered the best bridegroom candidate alongside his brother Tulli.


    That''s now the distance between criminals and - even though Erik himself is considered irrelevant so far - everyone is distancing themselves with a disgusting look on their face as if they were criminals.


    "Do you want me to get you out?


    "No. He will soon realize that this is real.... I''m sure."


    Erik stares at those who whisper and whisper as he rolls away, and he stares again and again at the people who say it''s Opal''s fault.


    I guess Erik still doesn''t want to admit that the world is so cruel.


    When Opal took his gaze off Erik, a great deal of yawning spread through the hall.


    And it was Terri, the Marquis of Bapot and Viscount Amadi, considered masterminds of this commotion, who showed up, followed by several nobles.


    Plus I can see Connally and Cole.


    They had their hands tied in front of their bodies, with an expression of humiliation.


    Only Marquis Bapot and Tulli stood dignified forward in it.


    But when Tulli sees Claude, he is much more breathtaking and hurried away from his face.


    (You knew Claude was back with rumors...)


    Opal was sad, even though he knew the friendship between them was false.


    I''m sure Claude believed in Tulli at first.


    Due to Claude''s character, there couldn''t have been a glitch.


    Claude lay his hands on Opal''s hand, which seemed depressed to think about it.


    "I''ll be fine. I moved on my beliefs. I guess they had something of theirs."


    Nodding small to Claude''s whispers, Opal turned his attention once again to the nobles who were rebels.


    Apart from Tulli, who moved as an Alessandro in the earlier civil unrest, both Marquis Bapot and the other nobles were neutral.


    This riot was set up by Alessandro and his men to defeat the anti-Kings.


    (You cooperated with the man-test development four years ago because, as Your Majesty, I noticed the connection between the Marquis of Saimes in the Kingdom of Socieux and the anti-Kings.)


    Given what Alessandro even knew about Omar, I guess he was going to let Opal cooperate on this one, even if he wasn''t isolated.


    Of course I don''t think Claude has assisted me for all that.


    Either that or I''d like to think it contained quite a bit of personal feelings.


    (In short, anti-Alessandro factions have been twitchy hunted down for over four years now)


    After all, everyone was dancing on Alessandro''s board.


    That''s not just the rebels, either.


    Opal, Claude and Hubert were dancing like Alessandro thought they would.


    Thinking about it makes me angry, but it''s also reliable.


    As our own kings, we have never been more comfortable.


    I guess that''s why Claude has also supported Alessandro for years.


    (I''m also angry that it was used as a good idea, but if that makes everyone happy at all, there''s nothing wrong with it. Besides, you can be proud to have more evidence than your majesty assumed. One shot thanks to you)


    He remembered Alessandro''s astonished face when he thought he was going to be flat-handed, and Opal laughed a lot inside.


    When I was a kid, I used to have a fight with my brother.


    Opal, who remembered those days, was upset again.


    I haven''t sleighed with my brother for a long time.


    How many times has Trevor and Marcia scolded me harshly because of my brother and made my mother look sad?


    "Opal, are you okay?


    I was just remembering when I was a kid.


    "Oh, I see"


    It was Claude who worried me about understanding Opal''s change of heart, but he seemed convinced that he understood it was about his brother.


    Claude knows very well that his siblings are not close.


    I always failed to mediate between them.


    When Claude suppressed his laughter and exhaled loudly, the door near the altar was opened.


    That door is only allowed to be used by royalty.


    As is customary, it was King Alessandro the man who came in through the door.

 87 57. Inquisition

    Those who were sitting back at the same time as the door was opened - the Opals stood up.


    Then Alessandro lowers his hips to the throne on the stage and keeps his head down until he has a signal.


    "I don''t care if you all take it easy."


    I can hear you exhale in that one word.


    So much so that this occasion was surrounded by tension.


    That was a lie.


    Alessandro, who usually feels familiar, was now even intimidating to get close.


    This is the king''s style and I can''t help but be afraid.


    "We shall now begin the interrogation concerning this treason against His Majesty the King. Please take your seats."


    As Lord Barba''s voice, the chairman of the House of Lords, lowered his back to the signal, Opal turned his attention to the Tullies.


    Neither Teuri nor Marquis Bapot remain unchanging and they don''t think anything about the confusion they caused frightened people.


    Opal was annoyed by that.


    When Opal and his men returned to the king''s capital, their faces were full of darkness and anxiety as they lived unchanged lives.


    That''s Claude''s - I looked at the carriage with the family crest of the Marquis Roussel''s house and it glistened all the time, and I waved through the window and I cheered.


    Claude said it was just a decoration, even if it was considered a hero in the civil unrest ahead, but I can see from the reaction of the city folks that it''s not.


    (I don''t know how far the rumors were spreading to the people in the city, but I need to get this done right here today and reassure them that it''s okay now)


    Though the rebel uprising ended in failure, the people of the king''s capital actually see many soldiers.


    I''m sure rumors were also circulated that Claude was murdered by a burglar, and there was no way he wouldn''t be anxious.


    I guess that''s why everyone was so happy and even tearful.


    "- Please wait. I have also heard of the insurgency''s whereabouts, to which Sir Barba has been mentioned earlier. Excuse the late Duke of Botzeli. I am also very angry at those who have made the former Duke and, out of their thoughts, have again laid their swords upon His Majesty. And why is it that you''re being held in such captivity until me and humiliated in front of everyone? I want you to start by explaining that."


    As Sir Barba briefly explained how this was going, Marquis Bapot suddenly raised his voice and blocked it.


    Everyone is surprised by the Marquis'' unscrupulous disrespect, and the blurring spreads.


    "Marquis Bapot, you''re being disrespectful to His Majesty."


    "It must be because it is in front of His Majesty. This is a matter of honor to my - my Marquis family. Let''s forgive the Kingsguards for suddenly pushing us into the mansion this morning and even detaining me and my son Tulli for something we don''t remember. You''re going to get an apology soon that it was a misunderstanding. But I cannot bear to be raised in front of everyone in this way for an unspeakable sin. I''d like to ask you first why me and Tulli are guilty of tremendous treason."


    "If you''ll excuse me, I''ve explained it properly...... Your Majesty, may I then answer the Marquis'' question?


    "- Forgive"


    "Thank you"


    Lord Barba blurred as blurred, but obtained permission from Alessandro.


    As soon as possible, the hall is surrounded by silence.


    Everyone has similar questions to the Marquis and wants to know the answer to them.


    "It was the gold produced from the lead mine on the territory of the Duke of Botzeri that became the source of funding for this rebel movement. It was Cole who stood there managing that mine. Connally, who also served the former Duke of Botzeri and still presided over the administration of the Duke''s territory, stands next door. In the last four years since the death of the former Duke, it was Marquis Bapot who was giving them instructions, wasn''t it?


    "I don''t know. I''ve never seen them."


    "No! Didn''t you instruct me how to smuggle gold! You''re cowardly!


    "Who are you talking to?"


    "Oh, yes, no..."


    Marquis Bapot cast a chilling, harsh gaze at Cole, who happened to raise his voice.


    Cole shrinks in fright.


    Connally was unwilling to fight from the beginning or remained silent.


    "That''s crazy...... The Marquis was close to the former Duke of Botzelli, wasn''t he? And he seemed to have taken to the Duke''s land many times, but he said he''d never even seen Connally?


    "I don''t even remember the servant''s face. Do you think I''m involved in this kind of felony because I was close to the former Duke? My son, Theuri, has sworn allegiance to His Majesty ever since the civil unrest ahead, and has fought with Lucell there, right?


    Marquis Bapot seeped his anger at Sir Barba, who was in a clouded condition.


    Tulli on the subject never sees Claude, neither speaks of anything.


    Opal was also quietly watching what happened again.


    "You can take as much as you want to testify, Marquis. Neither do they, but the people you''re with have testified that the Marquis is the mastermind of this commotion. Most of the rebels who had recently marched around Wang Capital were private soldiers, but it seems the Marquis was spending the maintenance costs on the soldiers."


    "Ridiculous. Did such testimony alone determine me as the mastermind? Such a thing, you''ll be able to match your mouth as much as you want to impersonate sin!


    The Marquis broadened his hands wide with an acting trick, staring and holding the nobles in captivity together.


    The nobles turn away from the Marquis with a pale face, unchanged.


    "Indeed, testimony alone does not forgive. So we were pretty distressed trying to get physical evidence. You are a very cautious man. In the civil unrest ahead, he never showed his tail while countering his majesty under the water, and on the contrary, he sent his son Viscount Amadi to his majesty. Either way, make sure it works."


    "Rude! I wanted to help His Majesty on my own!


    "That''s splendid. So why did you want to be on your side, Your Majesty?


    "Hey, why? Is there a reason for that?


    Sir Barba''s words were bitten by Tulli, who had remained silent until then.


    But Sir Barba is responding pale.


    I didn''t know much about Sir Barba, but Opal was impressed that His Majesty had just appointed him Speaker.


    "Where is the will of Viscount Amadi? It just seems to me that a bloody young man just wanted to adventure against his parents for a bit. It just seemed to be rolling well in my parents'' palms again, too -"


    "I won''t allow you to fool my brother any more!


    Erik broke into Sir Barba''s words in an angry manner.


    On the contrary, they are actually being held back by the Kingsguard knights in an attempt to pack it up.


    Still, Sir Barba did not look like he had moved, and continued to question Tulli.


    "Then Viscount Amadi. If you are supported by His Majesty, why, this time, call the Duke of Botzelli - in this context, the Marquis of Roussel. So, why did you let the Marquis Roussel attack the burglar and take his life?

 88 58. Evidence

    "Hey, do something stupid! That was attacked, too!


    In an inquiry by Sir Barba, who poked at the core, Tulli disputed with revelation of his anger.


    The anger exposes Teuri''s impatience.


    "Shut up, Tulli."


    "But Father..."


    "Shut up!


    Urgency induces failure.


    Marquis Bapot would be right to shut him up so his son wouldn''t say anything far-fetched.


    But that doesn''t work in this interrogation.


    Alessandro has solid evidence as well as witnesses.


    "�� let us now testify to the Marquis Roussel, a party"


    "Yes."


    Answering Sir Barba''s call, Claude stood up.


    Give Alessandro a compliment.


    "As you know, on many occasions I have explored those who conspire to rebel in a more intimate manner than His Majesty. But just a few moments later, my tail doesn''t always stick. I was still convinced that someone was leaking inside information close to me, and I circulated some false information to people I thought were suspicious. People based on that false information - that was Viscount Amadi."


    "Such things are just coincidences. I''m sad that you suspected me."


    "You''d even suspect that, wouldn''t you? Because the Viscount was ahead of him going as if he were watching my actions. But all the secrets from His Majesty that I mentioned earlier were dead."


    "Become...?


    I hear he regained his calm. It was Terri, but Claude''s words didn''t make sense.


    That''s the same for the audience, and Claude started explaining it again.


    "The clandestine orders I received from His Majesty were already received a few days ago by other loyal ministers, who were carrying out their tasks in the form of being pursued by me. Because my move means my enemies move too. It''s like there could be a little more respite..."


    At the end of the day, Alessandro laughed at the blurry cloud of words.


    I would have been certain if I had ordered Claude, who is a fool, after having served his purpose well, but I would not always give my predecessor room.


    He said it was to be unpretentious, but there was no doubt Alessandro was enjoying it.


    Even this interrogation seems to be enjoying it.


    "Unfortunately, it was an unquestionable fact that Viscount Amadi was circulating information to the conspirators. And I learned from one source that there was a plan to make the soldiers who made me look like a wildling thief attack me. So he turned his hand around and replaced the soldiers who pretended to be pirates with his allies."


    "Damn, you can make that up as much as you want!


    "Yeah, right. Whoever orders me to attack and makes it look like I attacked him can also be called as a witness, but if the Viscount denies he doesn''t know, it will only be a watershed argument later. So it''s better to show you clear evidence than this."


    When Claude said so, Marquis Bapot laughed with his nose.


    He doesn''t seem to think there''s any evidence out there.


    Perhaps the prudent Marquis has discarded all letters, etc. that are likely to be material evidence, and has not signed the letters he sent to his companions, etc.


    Convinced also by Claude''s suggestion, Sir Barba turned his gaze to Alessandro as he asked.


    Alessandro nods and permits without speaking.


    Several books and two boxes were brought in one after the other in response to that.


    Cole, who saw the books, was even more pale.


    As for the evidence, those who were sitting as witnesses stood in a detailed explanation.


    They seemed to be appealing to Alessandro for evidence of the crimes of the rebels, but in fact they are turning to the hearers in order to make them understand the legitimacy of this interrogation.


    As the evidence was cited one after the other, the conspirators dropped their shoulders disappointingly just saying that they could no longer escape.


    Contrary to those, the listeners seem excited.


    If much blood had been shed by this rebellion, it might have been different again, but for them, this interrogation is only a matter of other personnel and a show.


    Not a single piece of evidence has yet been adduced in it, the Marquis of Bapot was magnificent, and Tulli imitated it.


    "Next, we would like to explain the letter in this box. These could have been obtained with the help of the Marquis Roussel, may I ask the Lady to explain them to you?


    "Yes, I did."


    The hall bothered when Opal stood up in answer to the words of one of the lawyers.


    They are surprised that Opal, a woman, will speak on this occasion.


    Despite that reaction, Opal took out the letter when he opened the box and put it up so that the seal wax and the sender could easily be seen.


    Of course the wax is unwrapped, but if it overlaps, the crest can barely be seen.


    "All these letters were sent from the Marquis of Bapot to the Marquis of Saimes in the Kingdom of Socieux"


    "Stupid! Those things are fake!


    "Until about a year ago it seemed like this was stamped on the seal on the wax, but it hasn''t even written the sender''s name here lately. But the letter inside says that the sender is the Marquis."


    Marquis Bapot, who was showing room, stood up like he had been played, pointing to Opal and disputing.


    But Opal keeps on caring.


    Surprisingly silenced around me about the Marquis''s attitude, which I had been showing extra time for.


    "I will not read the contents here, such as those relating to the smuggling of gold and those that I hope will respond promptly to requests for reinforcements when there is a revolt, but I have already seen them all to His Majesty and the Inquisitors. As I said earlier, there just isn''t a sender''s name here these days, or it says to burn it if you read it, but the Marquis of Sames didn''t seem to obey. You didn''t have a relationship of trust even if you had a cooperative relationship with each other. I''m sure he left it for when something happened. And that''s how we got the evidence."


    "No! I didn''t write that! Somebody''s - Roussel, it''s your conspiracy!


    "... I would never have done more to kick your ass."


    "What...?


    Not trying to admit it only, Marquis Bapot somehow tried to impersonate Claude.


    But Claude doesn''t even deal with them.


    The Marquis was confused that he didn''t immediately know what it meant, and then turned his face bright red.


    "Don''t get on with it, you young builder! I wandered through Lucell''s old grandfather, then I took in His Majesty, then I had the gold -!?"


    The Marquis'' grudge was blocked by flying books.


    Though he hastily sheltered his face, the Marquis groans in pain as the horns of the books appear to have hit his forehead.


    "Well, my God! The books of precious evidence have flown away!


    Slightly surprising is the opal who threw the books, and those around him are pompous as they stand, distracted even by the Kingsguard.


    Only Claude and Alessandro''s laughter erupted in the hall.

 89 59. Rights

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 90 60. Brothers and sisters

    "Oh, my brother...?


    "Yes, because they insulted my sister. That''s a natural right, right?


    Just couldn''t hide the surprise, Marquis Bapot glanced and murmured.


    When Julian answers like he made a fool of himself, those who were flabbergasted start making noise again.


    Count Holloway is famous in this country, but his eldest son - who has always been a mystery in his country - suddenly appeared.


    Now screaming in a different way than earlier, Julian smiled at the excited women.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, please continue to give my regards to my sister. In vain, there are some places where justice is strong and depressing, but some things seem a little cute."


    As always, Opal came cocky at the extra word of his good brother on the outside.


    I''m more and more angry at Julian''s grin like he made fun of the usual people.


    Regardless of Claude sighing as if it had begun again, Opal turned his contempt gaze to Julian.


    "You''re the one who gloats, Julian"


    "Not as good as you."


    "If you think about what you''re doing by dropping out of college, what''s this? You think it''s cool? What if I did my duty before I claimed my rights?


    "Shut up, idiot. My dad''s still pimping, so you don''t need me, do you?


    "It''s dumber to say stupid. I can''t believe it''s just an excuse."


    "In the meantime, shall we stop the sibling fight here"


    "Is Claude on Julian''s side?


    "No, I''m on Opal''s side."


    "You always do, don''t you, Claude?"


    It involves even Claude, who went into stopping the sibling fight, and the old nostalgic exchange begins.


    I heard Alessandro laughing there and all three closed their mouths.


    "It''s been a long time, Your Majesty King Alessandro. I''m very sorry to bother you in front of Your Majesty."


    "Excuse me"


    Opal continued quietly, even as he was annoyed by Julian, who quickly changed his mind and greeted him by holding onto one first.


    Claude is laughing when he realizes the inside of such an opal.


    "Hmm. Viscount Holloway, it''s been a long time. Thanks to that but secretly moving, I was able to bust out the traitors faster than planned. Now the people of this country will also be able to live in peace without being frightened by futile strife. Thank you."


    "I''m terribly afraid that you can waste your words on me or something like that."


    Julian uttered exactly the same words as Opal did yesterday when he worshipped Alessandro.


    He was listening somewhere then.


    That''s a bitter laugh that Claude didn''t even know about.


    After all, even though Julian didn''t say one shot...... and wanted to see two or three shots, Opal turned to the Marquises of Bapot.


    The forehead of the Marquis is red, and the cheeks of Tulli and Erik are swollen.


    "Well, then it looks like we''ve come up with some evidence, and it would be time to bring it to justice"


    "Please wait! Will Your Majesty trust what this stranger has to say!?


    "... Marquis Bapot, the stranger who said so is the Viscount of the Soci��t�� kingdom, our neighbour, and the future Earl of Holloway? Moreover, Viscount Holloway was also a benefactor who carried medicines and other supplies to remote areas himself without regard for danger when this country was being invaded by the plague. At that time, how many of those here would have worked for those who were invaded by the disease?


    Most of the audience lay down their faces unexpectedly in response to Alessandro''s inquiry in response to Marquis Bapot''s protest.


    Claude had asked me lightly about what Julian was doing, but I heard it again from Alessandro''s mouth, and Opal was reviewing his brother.


    (I can''t believe I was walking myself to a remote area... Well, I''ll only forgive you for one shot)


    Julian was not serious even at boarding school and was always flustered.


    Opal didn''t know what he''d been doing since he dropped out of college, but there''s no way my father didn''t.


    I''m angry that no one told me anything by then, but when Opal was also desperate to rebuild the Duke of McCloud territory, I decided to wonder if it was to not worry him extra.


    It should also have been Julian''s presence that Claude didn''t say anything about Opal going to the Duke of Botzeri territory alone.


    I was surprised when I suddenly reunited at the Duke''s consulate, but I thoroughly pretended to be unfamiliar with Julian.


    If they had suspected at all that they knew each other, Julian would have definitely made fun of them.


    I was even angrier when I remembered from then on, but not if I am now imprisoned by personal emotions.


    When Alessandro stood up, he slowly came down from the top of the altar and took the item of evidence - a letter from the Marquis of Bapot addressed to the Marquis of Saimes.


    "I looked through all these items, too. Instructions were given to restrain them. It was only to show legitimacy and to give everyone an opportunity to apologize for causing this confusion... even if all the witnesses, the evidence, were stuck, would still deny it and look down on trying to pass it on to others."


    The tone of Alessandro, speaking slowly, was mild but not emotional, and everyone felt horrified.


    Alessandro shrugs, turning over the letter he had and staring at the wax.


    "I think this is the seal of the Marquis Bapot, the Marquis'' handwriting, which I am familiar with. If this is a fake, can''t you trust my jade? This is a big problem."


    Then I take another letter, compare the table and the back again and again, and take a different letter and repeat the same thing.


    In the meantime, the hall was quiet without anyone opening their mouth as well as the Marquis.


    "This letter was addressed to the administrator of the Reid mine from the Marquis of Saymes, and this is addressed to the Marquis of Saymes to the Marquis of Bupot."


    "Oh, no..."


    When Alessandro asked him to put up the letter, the Marquis was just amazed that he couldn''t believe it, and turned his gaze toward Julian as a hack.


    Perhaps Julian worked at the Marquis de Bapot house during the time the Turi and the others were away, and stole it out in the meantime.


    "If we are to claim that these are also fake, we must inquire into the authenticity of the same with the Kingdom of Soci��t��. Unfortunately, this is also a crime across nations."


    to Alessandro''s words. Marquis Bapot looked pale and closed his eyes.


    If the letter of the Marquis of Saimes is found to be authentic - and I have no doubt about that - he will be tried as a criminal, not only from this country, but also in the Kingdom of Socieux.


    Alessandro has already been judged.


    Resisting any more will only increase sin.


    The Marquis slowly opened his eyes and glanced at Erik, who was being held by Kingsguard.


    "�� nothing more to say"


    "Father!"


    Erik''s sad voice echoes in the hall.


    Opal was still impressed by Alessandro''s cunning.


    In spite of all this great sin, it was to be of a certain quality that Erik and his family were not to be held accountable for it.


    I don''t know how much love I have for my family in the Marquis, but he knew it would break to survive the house.


    "... you''re a very aristocratic man"


    "The opposite of you."


    "With you too."


    Julian left saying so and walked away, Opal reaching for Claude sitting next to him.


    Claude holds that hand tightly.


    As it was, Opal and Claude lay their hands on each other and watched the interrogation quietly until the end.

 91 61. Love

    "Oh, well..."


    Claude, who was reading the newspaper, looked up as Opal shrugged as he read the letter he had received from the Kingdom of Socieux.


    The two of us have been busy days since we returned to the Duke of Botzelli''s territory, but lately we have been able to take a little time after breakfast.


    "What''s wrong with you?


    "Roana said she refused a proposal from the Duke of McCloud."


    "Did you say no?


    "Yeah, we didn''t think it was going to work even though we didn''t have romantic feelings for each other."


    Roana, Viscount Croiselle''s warrant, is the person she met at the impeachment ball of Keymont and was cultivating friendship while exchanging letters from then on.


    I couldn''t even write to you the last time I was staying in the Duke of Botzeri territory, but now that the disturbances had one paragraph in both countries, I was resuming correspondence.


    "Viscount Croisel left it to Miss Roana''s discretion, too."


    "Right. Roana wrote about it. ''I can only thank my parents for telling me that I don''t mind being single like this. I''d like to be filial in some other way.''"


    Opal dropped his gaze on the thick letter from Roana and read out one of its sentences.


    I didn''t keep my face up because I remembered the first marriage.


    I now know that that forceful friendship was because he thought of my daughter as a father.


    Still, sometimes voidness strikes me.


    "Opal"


    "Huh? Oh, I''m sorry. I missed it."


    Called on by Claude, Opal looked up in a panic.


    I''m sure what you were thinking is off, but still pretend you were reading the letter.


    When he took the letter from such an opal and put it on the table, Claude took Opal''s hand intact.


    "I love you, Opal. I''ve always loved you, and I always will."


    "Claude......"


    Always Claude gives me the words Opal wants.


    Help me if I''m in trouble, comfort me, make me sweet without saying anything.


    Yet Opal couldn''t return the words well, and all he could do was lay his hands on Claude''s hands and stare.


    "Will you stop flirting with me in the morning? I get heartburn."


    "- It''s still impolite of you to push me without contacting me in the morning."


    It was Julian who had suddenly interrupted, and Opal turned around in frustration.


    Having slipped into the breakfast room, Julian sits in a chair that she is not even greatly advised to do.


    "Don''t worry, I don''t expect any hospitality from you."


    "There''s no way you care. You''re not welcome."


    Bitterly smiling at the unchanged sibling fight, Claude gave instructions by hand to the oranging butler.


    The newly hired butler is excellent, but he didn''t know what to do for Julian''s surprise raid.


    The butler left in relief, leaving only three people in the room.


    "So, what happened?


    "Do we have to do something?


    "It''s not natural, because I''m an uninvited guest. You were having fun in Wang Du, weren''t you?


    "You have no obligation to report, do you? And even if I don''t bother to let you know, I already have the information."


    Instead of the Opals, who had to proceed with the reform of the Duke''s territory, we of course knew that Julian had stayed in the King''s Capital to make ends meet in the social world.


    But to Opal, who honestly doesn''t say thank you, Julian picks the muffins on the table by answering like he made a fool of himself.


    Claude, who saw the look on Opal''s face at that moment, erupts indelibly.


    "Julian! That''s my muffin!


    "You had breakfast, didn''t you? You still gonna eat that?


    "Shut up! You must be deliberate in knowing you like me!?


    "That''s why I''m telling you. Get whatever you want."


    I''ve known about Opal, who keeps the last thing he likes for a long time, and Julian is going to be mean.


    Claude didn''t pinch his mouth anymore for such an exchange, but I heard Naja sneaking in with a new cup of tea ready.


    "Oh, excuse me"


    "It''s okay, Naja. It''s not rude at all."


    "Hey, Naja. Long time no see. Sorry to fool you then."


    "Oh, it''s been a while! I''m the one who said a lot of rude things..."


    "You really don''t have to care, Naja. I kept my mouth shut. I''m sorry, too."


    "But..."


    "It''s more than that, it''s a tease to the throat. Can I get you a cup of tea?


    "Yes!


    Naja, who meets for the first time not as my servant Julian but as the Viscount Julian, was frightened of her ever disrespectful demeanor.


    I''d rather not worry about Naja like that, but Julian ended this story by urging tea.


    "So, what are you going to do now?


    "Come on, I haven''t decided yet...... I guess I''ll go home once. I haven''t had a Marcia muffin in a while."


    "Right..."


    Claude nodded relieved to Julian, who answered in a light tone.


    Julian has always been impotent without going back to the Count''s consulate and without risking his life.


    Eight - nine years ago he ran to save lives in the plague spreading kingdom of Tysey, and since then he has been working as a spy for Alessandro.


    Whatever Claude was on edge of the kingdom, he wasn''t wondering why Julian would go that far, but he never asked about it.


    A glimpse of Opal seemed more relieved than Claude.


    "You just have to listen to plenty of Marcia''s novels before you eat muffins. And Trevor''s gonna squeeze me in."


    With that said, Opal tried to get up without waiting for Julian''s reply.


    Claude stands first and lends a hand.


    Julian stood up as a courtesy too, but just watched.


    Opal ignored Julian like that and smiled at Claude.


    "Thank you, Claude. Then I''ll talk to Duncan. Is Claude going to Pasma?


    "Yeah, I''ll be back at night though."


    "Speak up before you go out again."


    "Okay."


    Claude laughed bitterly and dropped off Opal as he turned his back and left the room.


    Julian is just sitting back and drinking tea.


    Claude also lowered back again, thinking we were both not being honest.

 92 62. Future

    "So, how''s Erik doing?


    "You''re getting a report, aren''t you?


    "I want to hear it from you."


    "... Well, naturally, people seem to have changed. He seems to have been beaten even more, trying to prove the innocence of his father and brother somehow. I don''t know if I''m losing myself right now."


    "I guess so"


    The more you try to clear up the innocent sins of Marquis Bapot and Tulli, the more your family will know how much you''ve been doing.


    It seems that Tulli''s rebellion against Alessandro was caused not only by Claude being marquised, but also by the granting of the Duke of Botzelli.


    Without even trying to understand what it meant to be entrusted with the Duke of Botzelli''s territory, the immaturity of Terri, who had been imprisoned by jealousy, was too costly.


    But the question now is how Erik will grow from here.


    It would be unfortunate if we were to hold grudges against the Kings and Claudes, but we would also have Erik wear some kind of sin.


    It was also inevitable to eliminate the worries of the hindsight.


    That is true not only of the Marquis Bapot family, but also of all the families of those involved in this conspiracy.


    Everyone will remain under close surveillance.


    After numerous investigations on the King''s part since then, it has been established that the judgment handed down will not be covered, and that the Marquis of Bapot will make amends with death for the great opposite: conspiracy.


    It was also noted how it could be taken by the social community about that, but there does not seem to be any particular major confusion.


    So Julian seems to have decided it''s time to leave the kingdom of Tysey.


    "Are we going back to King''s Capital next season?


    "No, I''m gonna take it easy here for a while."


    "That would all be a shame. I was desperate to get a little closer to the Dukes of Botzelli. You couldn''t help but be depressed with me."


    "You know, that usually just wanted to get close to you, right?


    "Naturally, that goes without saying, doesn''t it?


    "Be a little modest."


    Claude replied with a laugh to the childhood language.


    At that time, we both press for silence when there are signs that someone has been visiting us.


    If I clear my ears, I could hear the butler responding, and I found out that he had apparently received a letter.


    Then Opal rushed into the room when he continued to talk to this, whether it was the two of us, and broke off the conversation that it was time to go out.


    "Opal, take your time."


    "You''re as restless as ever."


    Shut up, Julian.


    Claude stood up immediately and walked over to Opal to notice.


    Opal sat on the couch with Claude''s hand as he said back to Julian.


    "Claude, I just got a letter from the Duke of McCloud..."


    "What''s going on?


    "The Duke says he will return the title."


    "Extreme things again"


    "Oh, come on, it''s you."


    Unlike Opal, who is puzzled by the content of the letter he just received, both Claude and Julian are cold.


    Opal, realizing that he had omitted too much talk, explained once again the contents of the letter.


    "It''s not exactly perfect right now. He just wrote that in his will. Ahead, I will never marry myself, so I have a successor problem. I can''t give up the position of responsible duke to a remote place I''m not familiar with, so I''m giving it back. But he''s going to give up some of his fortune to the other guy."


    "You''re just rejecting the proposal and abandoning yourself. You can leave me alone, Opal."


    "What? No way. Some kid turned down the Duke''s proposal?


    "Already! Listen seriously, both of you. It''s a problem to return the title, but most importantly, you''re going to bequeath the territory to us!


    Opal was annoyed by two people who still didn''t take it seriously.


    Even though it''s important to return the Duke, he''s saying that somehow he''s giving up his territory to the Opals who are others.


    But Claude just raised one eyebrow, and Julian laughed.


    "You don''t have to be so sick, Opal. One of these days, you''re gonna get back from your broken heart and change your mind."


    "It sounds interesting to show your face to the social community when you get home. Claude, you''re going to Pasma, right? I''ll go with you. I''ll stay on the boat."


    "You''re not staying?


    "You want me to stay?


    "Nothing like that."


    Claude smiles again at Opal''s reply, and Julian waves flirtatiously.


    I don''t know when I''ll see Julian next, but Opal never stopped.


    "What, are you dropping me off?


    Claude.


    Opal answers Julian''s query and heads with him to the front door.


    Claude was already ready, and when he received his jacket and hat from the butler, he kissed Opal''s cheek lightly.


    The carriage is already waiting.


    "Then I''ll be there, Opal"


    "Yeah. Be careful, Claude.... and Julian. Well, be careful."


    "Oh, see you later. Stupid Opal."


    "Julian!"


    Speaking like that, Julian sneezed and stroked Opal''s head.


    Leaving a laugh at Angry Opal, Julian rushes down the stairs.


    "Have a sturdy child, Opal! Well, you don''t have to worry about it!


    "You don''t have to tell me. I know, you idiot Julian!


    The butler was surprised by the words, which the Duchess and the others had not, and Naja laughed out loud.


    Claude laughs with pleasure again, holding Opal softly and putting his hands on his plump tummy.


    "Damn, you''re a troubled mother and uncle."


    It''s Julian''s fault.


    "Yeah, you are."


    Claude still fully sided with Opal and now kissed that lip.


    That is such a gentle kiss to comfort Opal that he misses his goodbye to Julian.


    "Well, I''ll be back by dinner. You can''t do that."


    "Yeah, I''m being quiet."


    Claude looked suspicious in response to Opal pushing back tears and smiling.


    Opal''s criteria for impossibility are slightly different from those of other women.


    As Claude turned her gaze to Naja, she nodded forcefully, leaving it to me.


    Claude, hurry up.


    "You''re a selfish one."


    "Really."


    Suddenly he pushes me, tells me to take him with me, and now he tells me to hurry.


    We both laughed at the Julian-like attitude, and Claude went down the stairs.


    Opal stroked his swollen stomach with his other hand as he waved at the carriage running away with that back off.


    Creating a warm family with a nice husband, which I dreamed of as a child, is coming true.


    Still, this is the first step.


    Opal gently laid his hands on his stomach to protect him and went back to the mansion to do what he had to do.

 93 Outside Edition: Naming

    In the idyllic landscape of the fields, a disproportionate number of stylish carriages arrived.


    However, the locals who were working on it wave their faces open without surprise.


    The Duke and Duke of Bozzelli, undoubtedly the lord of this land, wave their hands back with a smile through the window.


    Previously - in the Duke''s day, the lords had to kneel down and bow their heads immediately, but the new Duchess told me that such a greeting was not necessary.


    Even so, the people, who were initially half-hearted, believed that the Duchess had begun pruning with them with the scythe. �D �D Unlike the aristocrats who have been tough and mighty.


    Moreover, even then, when I came to see how things were going, they called me casually to ask if I was disabled or if I needed anything.


    The inhabitants embraced and adored the newly arrived Duchess and his wife.


    I''m not going to suffer from poverty anymore, nor am I going to be a rebel stronghold and frightened.


    On the contrary, the work was made easier with agricultural equipment that I had never seen before, and the fields were expanded and the number of livestock increased.


    The nobles are hunting, but they don''t trample the fields with their horses.


    The faces of the inhabitants were bright and full of hope.


    Opal, did you have a good picnic?


    ��Yeah, I''m glad the rain three days ago didn''t affect my house or my crops, just because the river was a little heavier.��


    "It''s not a picnic, it''s an inspection, Opal."


    "It wasn''t Claude who invited us to areas where the rain was particularly strong."


    Opal laughs and complains, and Claude, the dog, says, "Wow!�� Claude snapped and put her forefoot on the human lap.


    Because of this, Claude''s trousers get dirty with dry mud.


    Usually a well-behaved dog Claude, but occasionally he plays pranks on human Claude.


    "Claude... you haven''t wiped your feet yet." I''m the one who gets scolded by Jill. "


    Claude''s face grinned vaguely as he deliberately sighed and was scolded by his obsession.


    Unbearably, Opal spouts out and laughs, and Claude laughs out loud.


    Claude, the dog, said, "What''s wrong with you?" I just tilted my neck, and it was strange again. "


    The bright laughter is accompanied by a smile from the gentlemen and servants outside the carriage.


    However, after a while, Claude, the dog, barked in an unusual voice.


    "Claude, let''s stop the carriage."


    Yeah, that''s right.


    Opal silenced Claude, who barked violently outside, and sent a signal outside the carriage for the human Claude to stop the carriage.


    The moment the door opened, Claude jumped out.


    Claude!


    Opal grabbed Claude''s arm as he ran down the dirt road.


    I hadn''t even stepped on it yet.


    "I''ll go, Opal, come back."


    "Thank you, Claude."


    Claude jumps off the carriage and dexterously descends a poorly maintained berm.


    Looking worriedly at the situation, Opal also got off the carriage using the footstool provided by the squire.


    Claude, the dog, barks at Nakaju as he steps up to the riverbank.


    Looking at the leaning grass in the river, Nakasu is usually land.


    "Is there something in Nakaju? Ah, hey!"


    Claude!


    As soon as the human claude caught up, the dog claude jumped into the river.


    The Opal screamed unexpectedly as he descended from the easy-to-walk place that the squire had searched for.


    The flow is not so fast, but it is still dangerous.


    However, out of fear of the Opals, Claude the dog swam lightly to Nakaju.


    She continues to shake her tail as she thrusts her face into the bush.


    "Looks like there''s something there."


    I wonder if it''s an itch or a rat?


    Claude finally answered the caught-up Opal, picking up the dead branches that had fallen around and poking them into the river.


    Apparently, it was measuring depth.


    Are you going to cross?


    "I''ll see what I can find out." Either way, you have to bring that claude back, right? "


    "... be careful"


    Yeah.


    I know it''s okay because I''m talking about a careful Claude, but I can''t help but worry.


    The servants rushed after them, but neither of them thought of letting them go instead.


    Opal watches Claude carefully as he drinks his saliva.


    In fact, it''s not that far away, but it''s not that reassuring.


    Then Claude stood up in Nakazu and Opal breathed out in relief.


    Claude looks straight into the bushes where his dog Claude is poking his head.


    "Ah....."


    "Claude? What''s wrong?"


    "... it''s a cat. There''s a kitten."


    Claude stuck his hand in the bushes as he said it.


    Certainly, I could hear the thin sound of a cat in the river.


    Claude grabbed the little kitten in one hand and came back to the shore.


    "Opal, say hello to these children."


    "Yes, I''ll take care of it."


    Having received the two kittens, Opal held them to his chest and instructed his squire to watch Claude as he turned back to Nakaju.


    One of the squire hurried back to the carriage.


    "This is the last time."


    The third time Claude wakes up from the bushes and says so, the dog Claude agrees, "Wow!�� he barked.


    Then, the four kittens in the cage that the squire brought me startled.


    "You had a mother cat, too. Thank goodness."


    It''s a little weak, though.


    Then we must hurry home!


    Claude wrapped up his mother''s cat instead of wiping himself when he gave her the towel from the carriage.


    Opal deposited the cage with the servant who was holding it beside her and turned it back, but stopped immediately.


    Is Claude okay?


    Of course.


    Wow!


    Both responded cheerfully, so Opal relieved and climbed the dirt road again.


    Behind them was a wet claude and a wet claude.


    As you enter the carriage, you wrap the cats in an opal knee and return them to the cage, passing the new towels to the human Claude.


    I brought more towels and sheets just in case and it was the right answer.


    Isn''t it cold?


    "Yeah, I''ll be fine, just wipe down Claude."


    Okay, okay, okay.


    It was Claude, the dog who had his body shaken and filled with moisture before riding in the carriage, but he was still firmly wet.


    By the time I wiped it down with another towel, the opal was covered in mud and dirty.


    Well then, I''m sorry that Jill scolded you.


    "I''m going to be pissed off by Naja too." I should have taken Naja. You could have taken care of the kitten. "


    "For now, I have a mother cat, so isn''t it okay?" You look better than before. "


    It''s true.


    The mother cat is licking the bodies of the kittens who have not yet opened their eyes.


    He must have been desperately protecting the kittens as the river increased with the rain.


    You did a great job.


    Opal called out to the cats on her lap and stroked her dog, Claude.


    Claude gladly shakes his tail, and the dry soil soars.


    "Claude was great, too." I found the cats. "


    Opal, what about me?


    Claude, who was sitting next to her, seemed to be shaking his tail waiting to be praised by Opal.


    It was strange and spurted out again before I could answer.


    "Why are you laughing?"


    Because I don''t get bored when I''m with Claude?


    "It''s the same for me." I''m not bored with Opal. I wonder how many times I''ve gotten so wet like this. "


    "That''s Julian''s fault."


    Many times as a child, Julian''s meanness caused Opal to fall into rivers and ponds.


    Claude helped me every time.


    When I remembered, I was angry with Julian again, so Opal reverted to the subject.


    Well then, Claude did his best, so I''ll give up the naming parents of the cats.


    Are you going to keep all of them?


    "The museum is very spacious." There''s plenty of room for cats. "


    There are already two cats in the museum''s cooking area.


    Claude laughed, wondering if it might not be so much of an opportunity.


    Well then, the most energetic person is [Opal].


    Hey, Claude!


    Claude, the dog, shakes his tail happily again as Opal raises his voice in protest.


    Claude, a human who just barks at me, is crazy, and Opal laughs again.


    "What would you do if you were a boy?"


    "It''s fine because you''re so energetic, isn''t it?"


    "Yeah..."


    "So, this is [Julian]. Look, I just started a fight with Opal."


    Claude is right, the two kittens are hungry for their mother cats.


    Opal laughed, and Claude laughed with her, so strange that she could no longer protest.


    After that, the friendly kitten was named "Naja", the always calm kitten was named "Trevor", and the mother cat was named "Marcia".


    In the Duke of Bozzelli''s house, the light footsteps of the energetic cats began to resound.... sometimes sounds of destruction and screams.