Haunted Duke’s Daughter

As she woke up, Lilia stared absentmindedly at the ceiling for a bit before slowly getting up. After stretching, she got off her bed. Looking around, she was relieved to see color everywhere.

I wonder if Sakura is still all alone in that dark world...

[L] Sakura?

[S] Yea?

[L] Um If you are alright with me, I can become your conversation partner so reach out to me anytime, even at night.

Lilia waited for Sakuras response but only silence came back. As Lilia tilted her head, wondering what was wrong, Sakura replied uneasily.

[S] Sorry, your sentiments alone are enough for me.

[L] Why? It must be boring all alone.

[S] No no, just watching you is interesting enough Ahh, dont worry about it.

[L] I heard you clearly, you know? Really now

Lilia thought about letting herself go at her, but after seeing that place she couldnt bring herself to speak so strongly. Instead, Lilia sighed, pulled herself together, and continued.

[L] Whats your reason why? Is there something there?

[S] Um well Lilia, how is your bodys condition?

What is she talking about all of a sudden, Lilia thought, furrowing her eyebrows, and then finally, she realized.It cant be, Lilia thought.

[L] Now that you mention it, it has been a bit tough but it cant be

[S] Yea, sorry. Its my fault.

Without realizing, Lilias eyes widened and Sakura, seeing that, spoke again with a somber voice.

[S] Sorry. For not mentioning it earlier.

[L] I dont really mind but what does this mean?

[S] Umm yea Im not too well-informed about it but... You might be thinking that Im doing all sorts of things while you sleep but its not that. If I had to say, its like although your body is resting, your heart is still working. Of course, since your body is resting your stamina is recovering though. But, your heart thats always working hard cant exactly recover. Bit by bit, it becomes exhausted and in the end

[L] In the end, what?

[S] Sorry. I dont know.

Lilias face stiffened slightly.Weve come so far now but this is what it comes to huh, Lilia thought.Basically, we dont know whats the final risk.That was the conclusion Lilia came to.

[L] Alright then.

[S] Huh?

[L] Up until this point, I have been in your care. I can allow you to cause me some inconveniences.

[S] Lilia

Sakuras voice started trembling. With a bitter smile, Lilia stood up.

[L] Dont cry at something like this. If you ever get lonely, call out to me anytime.

[S] Okay Thanks, Lilia.

Hearing Sakuras voice overcome with emotion, Lilia began to feel embarrassed. As she cleared her throat in a seemingly forced way,Its time to go now, Lilia thought, and headed towards the door.

[S] So hey, once a week, one hour before each day off. Hows that?

Lilia stopped, her hand placed on the doorknob. After confirming Sakura was done speaking, she let out a soft sigh.

[L] I dont mind if its longer you know.

[S] Its more than enough with that. You too, Lilia, if it ever gets tough tell me anytime.

[L] Yes. I know. Sakura, you too, speak freely to me anytime.

[S] Yeah Im happy. Thanks so much Lilia.

It was unusual to receive these heart-filled words of gratitude from Sakura. Feeling embarrassed, Lilias cheeks began to redden but she couldnt hide it from Sakura so instead, she laughed sarcastically to cover it up.

As she opened the door, she found Tina and Chris sitting across each other at the table. Naturally, she was surprised at the unusual combination but she was even more surprised at the two of them cheerfully laughing together.

Alisa, who noticed Lilia first, bowed respectfully. Without responding to Alisas greeting, Lilia stared at the two sitting at the table and spoke.

Lilia let out a soft sigh and headed towards the two. As she headed over, they noticed Lilia and immediately stood up.

The one who asked was Tina. Lilia shook her head with a smile.

----- Authors Note ---

This is like a Lilia-like way of showing affection. Probably.

Today Ive made this chapter a bit short.

Please attribute this as an effect of posting consecutively yesterday