The path to the central palace seemed unusually short today. Perhaps it was because of deep contemplation; my thoughts felt abundant, leading to a sense of unsettled complexity.

Erzhe had promised to return around the agreed time after touring the capital in the morning. By now, she would probably be waiting at the appointed place.

Although she had requested my assistance in exploring the greenhouse, it didn’t seem purely with innocent intentions after hearing various stories through the maids.

Belia sighed softly.

“Look, the guest is visible over there. But…”

The maid accompanying Belia couldn’t bring herself to continue, trailing off at the end of her words.

Belia, too, was witnessing the same scene.

Why is Erzhe with Raul now?

“…I don’t know what to make of the situation with the prince.”

“Enough.”

Belia, who stopped the murmuring maid, lowered her voice.

“It’s not a definite matter, so don’t add to the conversation. The palace is always a place where one must be careful with words.”

“Yes, Your Highness. I apologize.”

However, even though Belia had spoken that way, she couldn’t help but feel uneasy in the current situation.

With a chilly gaze, Belia slowly approached them.

“Nice to see you again, Your Highness.”

“Haha. It’s been a while.”

“…I assume you were in the middle of a conversation.”

“Ah, yes. While returning after paying respects to Her Majesty, we happened to encounter Lady Kinetra, the young heiress of Marquis. She said she was going to the greenhouse…”

“That’s correct.”

As Belia finished her reply with a dignified air, Erzhe brightly smiled and spoke.

“Your Highness! Actually, after hearing about my story, you offered to guide me through the greenhouse yourself.”

“…Is that so? Even though you must be very busy. Anyway, I appreciate your kindness.”

“Since a guest has come all the way to the palace, taking a little time is more than possible.”

Raul and Erzhe stood side by side, engaging in such a conversation with me. The situation was strangely absurd to the point of being inexplicable.

I didn’t want to get involved unnecessarily between them this time either.

“It’s fortunate that Your Highness made time for me. In that case, I will take my leave.”

“What?”

Your request was to visit the greenhouse, and since you couldn’t enter alone, you asked me for help. However, since Prince Raul said he would guide you, I think I can go back now.”

“Princess!”

Despite Belia calmly explaining the situation, Erzhe was greatly surprised, her eyes wide open and her mouth agape. It didn’t seem intentional to cause any trouble, but regardless of her intentions, her actions in this situation were not beneficial to me. Even if unintentional, there was no way Erzhe could develop positive feelings in the current situation with Raul.

“Despite her busy schedule, she kindly came all the way here.”

Belia’s calm explanation seemed to surprise Erzhe, who was looking at me with a bewildered expression.

“Even though I don’t know how you and Prince Raul are related, you are our guest, and I want you to enjoy the tour without any inconvenience. Please go with Prince Raul.”

The atmosphere became more awkward as Belia spoke with a composed expression. Erzhe hesitated for a moment but eventually nodded in agreement.

“Thank you, Princess. I’ll make sure not to take too much of his time.”

Erzhe’s words sounded somewhat apologetic. Belia only nodded in response.

“Then, I’ll excuse myself.”

After a polite farewell, Belia turned and left, leaving behind an awkward atmosphere.

As I walked away, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of discomfort. The situation had taken an unexpected turn, and I wondered how it would affect the relationships between the characters.
Raul stepped a bit closer to Belia, leaning in to whisper in her ear with an almost inaudible voice.

“Moreover, what you promised with the guest is for you, Belia. If you reject and turn away in front of the central palace gate, visible to everyone, wouldn’t it be somewhat embarrassing?”

Raul’s voice, devoid of laughter, sent shivers down the spine.

“So, listen quietly to me this time.”

Belia clenched her lips.

“Wow! It’s much more beautiful than the rumors!”

As winter approached, the outside air was chilly. However, this place, maintained at a constant temperature with magic stones, was filled with a warm atmosphere.

The glass greenhouse, proudly showcased by the palace, was filled with various lively plants, and Belia had always liked this greenhouse for its vibrancy.

Of course, it wasn’t the case now.

“It’s regrettable that only the royal family can enjoy this place. Don’t you think so?”

Raul, standing a little apart, turned to Belia and asked.

“Yes.”

Belia’s response lacked sincerity.

Of course, Raul didn’t mind at all. Looking at Erzhe, who was joyfully exploring the greenhouse, he commented.

“It’s so pure and lovely, isn’t it?”

Belia couldn’t understand the intent behind his question. Was he expecting praise for Erzhe?

“…It seems Lady Kinetra, the Marquis’s heiress, has captivated you.”