Haunted Duke’s Daughter

LLets admit it. Thats my friend. If he keeps bothering her, Im not going to keep quiet about it.

SYeah. Its a good thing. But you know what, Lilia? That sermon you just gave me still applies to Lilia sometimes.

L.Ill be careful. Let me know if you notice anything.

Lilia knows that. She also knows that her current situation is far from ideal for Sakura. Still, Lilia cant make any mistakes because Sakura is always with her.

When she thinks about it, she scoffs at the unfairness of it all. The prince doesnt have anyone who is always there to watch out for him.

Your Highness?

When Lilia called out, the prince loosely raised his head. In a matter of minutes, he was exhausted.

SHe looks terrible. Who did this to him?

LOh, whats the matter with you?

SNothing at all. I think we should do more!

Sakura smiled happily. Lilia didnt know why, but her laughter was somewhat eerie. She shook her head inwardly, saying it was just her imagination, and turned to face the prince again.

Im so distraught. Im sorry.

Then I bowed my head. The prince rolled his eyes and then smiled helplessly.

No, youre right, I didnt think it through. Maybe next time Ill think a little more about my surroundings.

Yes, please. I look forward to working with you.

Oh. Anyway

The prince gazed at Lilia closely. When Lilia tilted her head, the prince smiled, somewhat amused.

I dont think youve been harassing Tina. People can change, you know.

Please dont. Im still being taught.

Being taught? By whom?

Lilia was at a loss for words, but quickly smiled to make up for it. The prince saw this and just shrugged his shoulders.

Youve found an excellent mentor. Id be happy if you could introduce me to them, but I suppose theres no point in asking.

LIf I could introduce you, I would, but.

SIts physically impossible.

I chuckled inwardly with Sakura. Really, now I can truly say that Im glad Sakura is here.

Your Highness. Lets talk again later in the week. I dont have a lot of time, but I think you should think a little more about the future.

Oh.Yes, thats right. Im sorry, but please give my regards to Tina.

Yes, I will.

I bowed my head politely and crept back to the door. The servants I saw out of the corner of my eye were all smiling. They knew Lilia was out of control, but they just couldnt bring themselves to say anything. A few of them, whose eyes met Lilias, bowed to the prince so that he would not notice them.

I walked to the door and looked back at the prince. He was sitting deep in his chair, not making a single movement. It may have been a little too much, but it was better than doing it halfheartedly.

Before I knew it, my eyes met with Glenn, who was standing next to the prince. He smiled slightly and waved at me as if to say dont worry about it. I gave a small bow and left the room, leaving the rest to Glenn.

The next day. Lilia left the room with Alisa before noon. In Alisas hand was a wooden box, in which she kept her usual clothes. Because it was before noon, there were a few people who showed interest in Lilia and Alisa, but no one volunteered to get involved.

Oh, dear.

When I entered my usual classroom, I found Cynthia there, dressed differently than usual. Her clothes were very simple and inferior to what Lilia was about to wear. But for some reason, it looked good on her.

Lady Lilia.

When Cynthia called her name, Lilia looked up. Cynthia continued.

I will accompany you as Lilia-samas maid. Would that be all right with you?

I see, Lilia nodded. Cynthias choice of clothes must have been intentional. A maid cant wear better clothes than her master. But even so, I cant help but wonder if there was something more she could have done.

Shall we go?

Yes.

SLilia! I want some of those dumplings!

LYes, yes.

Lately, Lilias eating excursions have mainly been following Sakuras instructions. Its a form of going around seeing what Sakura wants to eat. Lilia had no idea which foods were good, so she adopted this method.

But for Cynthia, who is working with her, it must be difficult. Sakuras instructions were not consistent, going this way and that way. Cynthia seemed to be confused by the lack of regularity in her movements.

SOh! Lilia! That one! That one!

Lilia shivered at Sakuras sudden loud voice. Cynthia, who had seen this, immediately alerted her surroundings. Naturally, there was nothing to see, which made her feel a little bad.

LSakura. Whats wrong with you?

When I asked in a slightly stern voice, Sakura smiled shyly.

SIm sorry. I want to eat that.

I followed Sakuras instructions and headed to a nearby store. The dumplings on the skewers were covered with some kind of liquid.

SNo waymitarashi dango.

LMitarashi dango? Are they good?

SYoull find out when you try them!

Lilia nodded and bought three of the dumplings. She handed one of them to Cynthia. Cynthia was puzzled, but took it.

Thank you very much.

Cynthia held the skewer and chewed the dumplings. Lilia was watching her closely. Cynthia noticed this and tilted her head anxiously.

Oh, um.Lady Lilia?

Lilia shook her head, saying it was nothing, and took the skewer and chewed the dumplings, just like Cynthia. She was wary of the mysterious liquid, but it was quite delicious.