“You’ve come, Lord Zeldo.”

“Greetings.”

The head maid had informed Lumiere of Zeldo’s visit.

From the shadows, we watched as Zeldo arrived in a navy-blue uniform. The eldest son of the Count Luct family proceeded to show him around. Despite only being 20-years-old, he was already assisted his father in managing the territory.

I’ve met him many times and I remember him being quite a show-off.

Apparently, even Count Luct found his son’s excessive ambition an issue.

“Lord Isaac. It’s been a few weeks since we last met. The other day, my fiancée behaved very untoward.”

“No, it’s alright. She came all the way to apologize with your brother, and that’s that. I’m the one who feels sorry.”

“Alright, then I’ll take advantage of Lord Isaac’s generosity. Now, where’s Lord Isaac’s seat?”

Your Highness Sazanjill…?!

No, I knew he was coming. But why is that the first thing he brings up?! Well, maybe it was something that should be settled right away…

Still, it’s really uncomfortable to see someone else apologize for me. Especially toward something I wasn’t the slightest bit remorseful about.

Also, I’m sure His Highness Sazanjill doesn’t know I’m here right now.

As I hung my head, Lumiere started giggling next to me.

Softly, without making a sound, I slapped her cheek. Then, I turned to Lumiere with a stern look on my face.

“Listen. We only have a single chance. I’ll cause a commotion, so contact Lord Zeldo when he comes out. Don’t forget to introduce yourself properly.”

“What kind of commotion do you intend to cause?”

“Don’t worry. It’s something we can manage.”

“What?!”

As I reassured Lumiere, who whispered back in shock, I handed her the letter.

“Come on! Hurry and take your position!”

“Okay…”

Please don’t look so worried.

I was merely going to make a moderately loud noise. But if it was just a one-time thing, Zeldo might not bother coming out of the room. In other words, I had to be consistent with my disruptions.

After making sure that Lumiere (reluctantly) hid behind a pillar, I looked around.

It was quite an ornate mansion. As expected of the count who owned the best port in the Kingdom of Lapisenta!

The hallway in front of the reception room was lined with particularly lavish ornaments. Among them, a shining gold armor caught my eye. How flashy. There were similar ones displayed in the royal castle, but the style was completely different.

I wonder if it’s from another country?

Still… it looked like it’d be worth polishing!

Armor wasn’t likely to break if dropped, so it was perfect! Standing around singing would be too boring, right?

So, I took out the brand-new rag I’d made earlier and wrapped it around the pristine gold armor.

The splendid shine of this helmet…! I can’t help but think of him!

“Aaa~ the helmet is getting cloudy~ unlike my father’s shiny bald head~”

Ah, Father. I’m sorry for being such a terrible daughter. After all, I failed my exams.

I was sure I’d keep it a secret, but I can’t help but feel like they knew. Lately, I’d been asked, “How are your studies going?”, “His Highness is busy, so how about hiring a tutor instead?” and, “The truth is, I used to compete with His Majesty for the top spot in our class.”

“The belly is so full~ The head is so big~”

Even so, I loved my compassionate father who pretended not to know. He might be bald and fat, but I still loved him!

“Yes~ even if we laugh at you at parties~”

The more passionate my feelings grew, the more heated the song became.

“How wonderful~”

“Lelouch!”

“Champiooooon~!”

See? Someone got disturbed already. I took a breath for the final vibrato and opened my eyes, which I’d closed without realizing.

“Ah…”

“I’m not sure where to begin, but… nice song.”

---

Read 10 weeks ahead and support American Faux on Patreon for only $2~

<Previous Chapter

Next Chapter>