People Aren't Meant to Be Fixed! (4 Chapters Left to Complete) - Chapter 97

“Your early entry into the Imperial Capital is highly unusual.”

Although for now it’s merely framed as preparatory training to become a lady-in-waiting and a knight through indirect experience, this situation was clearly different from simply entering the Imperial Capital as the Crown Princess’s friend.

After all, this arrangement had been formally decided by summoning the heads of two noble houses, and if the people of the capital saw me constantly accompanied by Freyrie and Carlisle—not just occasionally mingling with children—they’d surely guess its significance unless they were utterly clueless.

Moreover, even if Duke Vladimir and Marquess Fleur didn’t personally boast about it at banquets or gatherings, the Imperial Capital was brimming with countless eyes and ears who would quietly spread what they’d seen and heard.

In other words, no matter how carefully I acted, the news that I’d already brought in close aides couldn’t be hidden away like a treasure tightly sealed in a pouch.

Besides, such matters easily stirred envy and resentment from other noble families, and someone might well go to great lengths to forge connections with either the Fleur or Vladimir households because of this.

After all, though both houses were already prominent, the selection of their children as close retainers to the next emperor would only make their standing even more unshakable.

In short, it was the same psychology as choosing to cling to a thick, sturdy rope rather than a thin one that might snap at any moment.

“Therefore, you must always stay alert.”

Carlisle might seem slightly uneasy, but thanks to Marquess Fleur’s formidable influence, few would dare provoke him rashly. Freyrie, as the daughter of a duke wielding immense power, honor, and loyal followers, would likewise deter anyone foolish enough to try to take a bite out of her.

Yet danger could still arrive in unexpected ways—just like the spy who had targeted me long ago. How could one know whether someone approaching with friendliness intended to strip away everything valuable and exploit the power for themselves, or was merely a leech seeking to cling on through flattery?

Thud. Thud—

Furthermore, as Jeff had pointed out on the day he summoned the duke and marquess for discussion, being labeled “meritorious families” didn’t mean everyone would automatically follow me—nor did it guarantee that those who aligned with the Fleur or Vladimir families genuinely trusted or loyally supported them.

“Perhaps someone is already plotting to pull you down.”

After all, greater benefits always came with greater responsibilities.

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