The Duchy of Lancester was located at the Southern frontier. To reach that place, they rode a horse-drawn carriage, before switching to a train. Upon arriving, they were greeted by a gorgeous cityscape.

“—I swear, until a moment ago, we were still in a forest. Then after we passing through that tunnel, I found myself in a big city!”

Given that it’d soon arrive at the station, the train begun to slow down. As Avril excitedly looked out the window, Dylan spoke to her.

“Myrtle is the most prosperous city in the territory, one where you can get your hands on basically everything. If we travel by carriage, we should arrive at Duke of Lancester’s mansion in a few minutes. It’s less convenient than the royal capital, but I can assure you that you won’t be troubled during your time here.”

“Lord Dylan, weren’t you raised here?”

“That’s correct… I was born in my mother’s house, which was far away from the territory. Although I don’t have many pleasant memories here, I still think that it’s a wonderful place.”

Dylan’s tone hinted at his mixed feelings for his family, devotion to his territory, and other extenuating circumstances.

—Lord Dylan’s father, the ‘Lecherous Old Pervert’ who lives in the frontier, what kind of person is he, I wonder?

Despite being called the frontier, the Duchy of Lancester had a history of being an independent principality. Said background gave birth to a unique culture and art, one which modern people tended to stay away from.

But… As Lord Dylan said, it’s a wonderful place with plenty of charm.

Although Avril felt somewhat uneasy, she thought she’d be able to handle most things. She nodded to herself, and as the scenery passed, noticed something blue sparkling in the horizon.

“T-that’s…!”

“The sea. The coast is a resort area, so let me show you around next time. While there is a port and trade is thriving, the district itself isn’t very safe. Whenever I visit, I tend to bring Chris along.”

“So, that’s the ocean! I see, I’ll keep that in mind.”

She had to remember the precautions. By the time she replied, the train had arrived at the station. This time, in addition to Avril and Dylan, Chris and Grace also tagged along.

The Duke of Lancester’s residence comes with a separate building—a place where the concubines live. I’m so excited…!

—But I can’t.

After all, Dylan traveled the distance to that place because of Lawrence’s mission, one in which he had to clear the former duke’s name. Above all, Dylan had a feud with the former duke.

Avril had to admit that she was full of curiosity, but she also had to be mindful of the situation. At the same time, she was also aware of her bad habit—that is, her tendency to guffaw when she was at ease. As she clenched her teeth, Dylan, who seemed to have noticed something, spoke.

“Avril.”

“? Hm, what is it, Lord Dylan?”

“You don’t have to hide your enjoyment. Just don’t mind me and enjoy yourself. If you don’t feel comfortable, you may return to the royal capital. I have Chris and Grace with me.”

So, that’s why… Lord Dylan is always thoughtful and kind.

“Thank you very much! But I’ll see my duty through. I’ll do my best regarding the former duke and his mistresses, as well!”

“…No, what I’m trying to say is, ah, whatever…”

In contrast to her determined smile, Dylan’s smile was somewhat anxious.

But she didn’t mind. With a chuckle, she helped Chris and Grace load the luggage into the carriage headed for the main residence. Afterwards, she jumped into inside it.

---

***T/N: I’m more excited to see the kind of shenanigans she’ll do rather than the fluff

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