‘Yes, I must become that good to confidently stand by Bella’s side.’

After living in the kingdom, he finally had a clear dream for the first time.

But all of it was solely for Bella’s sake.

Raven was still not aware of that.

After visiting the Fernan House, several weeks passed.

In the midst of busy days with classes, I unexpectedly received a gift on the weekend.

It was an enormous treasure chest sent by the Danir family.

“This is the monthly tribute sent by Lady Lera. It’s said to be a collection of the profits from the businesses and territories transferred to Lady Bella.”
“Wow… This is just for one month’s worth?”

“Yes. The enclosed letter mentioned that they replaced it with gold bars and gems because sending cash would be too bulky.”

I stared in awe at dozens of sparkling gold nuggets, diamonds mined from the Danir family’s mines, and various types of gems of unknown names.

Especially the diamonds, classified as grade 1 and exclusively mined from the Danir family’s mines, held tremendous value.

Of course, the prices varied greatly depending on the processing method, but it wasn’t a problem as Raven could increase the cash value by employing skilled craftsmen later.

“It’s really enormous. With this amount, I could build more than just a mansion within a year. It seems the rumors about the Danir family only getting involved in lucrative businesses are true.”

“Maintaining Lady Bella’s dignity is no longer an issue, right? It’s time to proceed with the restoration work on Rose Palace that we’ve been postponing!”

I nodded my head, looking at the maids who were overjoyed.

Although there was a monthly allowance provided by the royal family, managing the long-neglected Rose Palace felt somewhat tight.

After the removal of the isolation order, the number of employees hired had increased significantly, causing the maintenance costs to rise.

Nevertheless, it seemed like this amount would be enough to cover all the necessary expenses and have some left over.

“Now there’s no need to envy other royal families receiving support from Saga. Instead, they might envy us. Money seems to roll in effortlessly even if we just sit still.”

“When I grow a bit older, I should try running a business on my own. I can’t always rely on Lera’s help.”

“That’s a brilliant idea! I’ve heard through rumors that princes from other palaces have already started to dabble in businesses little by little. It seems to be part of their education to foster independence.”

In fact, the royal family members of the Chephesh Kingdom began learning how to run a business from around the age of ten.

They established small businesses, sometimes even contributing donations, and directly assisted in the royal household, considering it their duty as royalty.

Therefore, the princes started voluntarily contributing substantial amounts as part of their duty to improve the lives of the kingdom’s citizens.

‘If I manage to secure the top position among my siblings in terms of the donation amount… I wonder if Dad will praise me?’

I recalled the sight of Dad praising Wilhelm’s merits at the banquet.

According to people, Dad throwing words of praise at his child on a public stage was a rare occurrence, limited to that one time.

It was also an indication that public merits were more important to Dad than private emotions.

As I imagined the fading face of Dad smiling and patting my head, I let out a short sigh.
Dad may appear equally indifferent to others, but that fact couldn’t console my heart, which felt empty as if it were a void.

“You seem somewhat down, Lady Bella. Is there something bothering you…?”

Seeing Sionne’s worried expression, I suddenly waved my hand.

“Oh, no. I was just thinking about something else. I’m contemplating where to spend that money.”

“Well, shopping would be the answer, wouldn’t it? With that amount, you can buy whatever you want! How about getting new clothes and lots of accessories for parties? Hoo, just thinking about it is exciting!”

Though Loina, who is more sincere about dressing me up than anyone else, spoke enthusiastically, I shook my head.

“It’s better to spend it only where necessary and keep it well stored. Clothes are fine; I can use the wardrobe my mother prepared.”

“Lady Bella, you’re so mature that it’s surprising. It would be a good experience to indulge yourself in spending sometimes.”

“Loyna, you’re funny. Do you still not understand Lady Bella’s kind heart?”

“Well, even so… it seems like a waste.”

I smiled at grumbling Loyna.

Someone might say she doesn’t act like an adult, but it somehow felt good that she was expressing complaints on my behalf that I hadn’t yet voiced.

‘By the way, I’m proud that the supporting families are gradually increasing.’

The Danir family and the Fernan family, and numerous noble families trying to communicate by sending letters and gifts periodically.

Though they hadn’t openly declared their support yet, the number of places secretly promising assistance was increasing.

‘If things continue like this, becoming the next Lord’s successor confidently is just a matter of time.’

In fact, it was a relief that one of the competitors, Luca’s family, had volunteered to support me, eliminating a major concern.

Still, compared to Wilhelm, I lacked a significant foothold to confidently claim the title of the most likely successor to the Lord.

‘If I can personally discover evidence related to the assassination and the conspiracy of the Turner family and the Repel family, Dad might look at me again.’

If only I could find evidence that the head of the Elder Council, the Turner family, and the Repel family conspired to assassinate me.

It could be a crucial turning point in achieving Dad’s wish to expel the Elder Council and break the momentum of the Repel family.

It was such an important matter that I decided to visit the Fernan family, even if it meant pushing myself a bit.

It was a bit uncomfortable that Baron Vaon was the foster father figure predetermined by my parents, but at this point, the Baron’s help was crucial to me.

‘It might be a good idea to coordinate with Cain and investigate the dark forces separately. With sufficient funds available, the Baron probably won’t interfere.’
One of my outstanding strengths was always trying to find proactive solutions in any situation. It was a moment when I was surrounded by chattering maid sisters, contemplating various investigation plans. Suddenly, someone with a familiar silhouette burst open the door and leaped into the room, saying, “Bella! I’m here. Let’s have some fun together!”