‘She probably died for the same reason the village burned down.’

If it were Bellion, he would have already investigated and known. Finally, Delina accepted it.

“So, you referred to Celine as Your Highness’s niece. If you said she was your sister’s daughter, it would have revealed that Your Highness’s sister is still alive.”

If there was a member living in a family like the Ulphrim Ducal family who hid their status, it would create a stir. Especially if it became known to the imperial family that restrains the ducal family.

“Wait a minute. Then, is this really a secret that needs to be kept? Is it okay for you to tell me?”

If this matter spread, the one in trouble would be Bellion. Even so, Delina, with a confused expression, asked. However, Bellion remained silent.

“Jester.”

“Yes?”

“Whether I have a daughter or a niece, it doesn’t change anything between a jester and me.”

“……”
“So, don’t have feelings for that side.”

Though low and slow, Bellion’s voice digging into her ears, Delina looked at him blankly and smiled faintly.

“Yes. I understand.”

Even though she thought he didn’t really care about that side, it was truly strange. Just seeing how relieved she was to this extent was saying something.

“The prince sent a letter?”

“Yeah. It seems like he’s interested since I recently joined the ducal family. He asked to see me, so I agreed.”

Damian’s words about meeting Celine seemed to be true, as Damian sent a letter asking to meet her.

“It’s okay for me to see the prince, right?”

“Huh? Why?”

“Well, aren’t you two going to get married? So, I thought I should get permission.”

“No, no. Not at all. Since there’s no chance of marriage, just go and meet him without worries.”

Delina strongly denied Celine’s words. Then Celine smirked at Delina.

“Why, he’s quite handsome. Do you have a separate reason for rejecting him? Is there someone else you have feelings for?”

“Well, I mean…”

At Delina’s words, she blurred the end and tilted the teacup silently. Then, Celine, who had been staring at Delina, raised an eyebrow.

“Come to think of it, Delina seems to get along well with guys.”

“Me?”

“Yeah. Both Calix and Zen. Oh, and this time, Diamon Gongja and Elpisha Yeongsik seemed to be very close too, seeing how they looked so friendly.”

“Calix and Zen lived in the same mansion as I did, so… How did you know about those two? Are we close?”

“At that gathering, the three of you came back unusually late. So, after the gathering, I met them and asked. I was curious if Delina was close with them.”

At the mention of meeting Noah and Bansenkt separately, Delina’s hand, holding the cup, trembled.

“When I asked, they said they were sponsored by the Ulphrim ducal family together. It seems like the connection from childhood is still strong. Seeing that it continues even now.”

“…Yes, I suppose.”

“Then, do those two still visit the ducal family occasionally?”

“Well, I don’t really know. They’ve only recently returned to the Empire, so I’m not sure… Why are you asking?”

Nonchalantly picking up a cookie, Delina’s every sense was focused on Celine’s answer.

“In fact, during my time as a servant, it was really difficult without friends of my age. So, if it’s okay, I thought of introducing you later on.”

“If that’s the case, I have someone who can introduce you right away. How about Eiley? Since she’s also a young lady, communication might be easier.”

“Oh, that’s good too, but my father is curious about the people he sponsored, you know.”

‘Introductions, and it had to be those two in particular.’

Delina still couldn’t figure out what was inside Celine’s mind. Even while eating a cookie, Delina said with a raised corner of her mouth.

“Sure. Let’s do that when we have the chance.”

“Really? Thanks.”
“Yeah. Then, I have a favor to ask too.”

“What is it?”

No matter how much Delina thought about it, the sudden meeting between Damian and Celine felt unnatural. Delina, wondering how she could find the reason, spoke up.

“When you go to meet the prince at the palace, can you take me with you?”