Today was unmistakably different from before.

To the previous Cassius, Lenisha was an untouchable person.

Someone he could only watch.

But now, Lenisha had become Cassius’s person.

Just that fact alone made his heart swell with pride.

No one could surpass Lenisha.

At least, as long as Cassius was there!

Linday carefully observed the maids’ actions.

Lenisha trusts no one.

Whether that distrust has also been transferred to Linday or not, until recently, Linday couldn’t erase the suspicion towards them, even though they had lived like a family.

Lenisha might have done something else while Linday was away.

However, the maids were too excited and busy chatting to notice Linday’s thoughts.

“Ugh. You really wanted to come back? Linday, do you know how annoying Canary’s actions were?”

“That’s right. She arrogantly stuck her nose up in matters that weren’t her business. When Madam Turriel hosted a gathering before, Mother attended, and Canary looked so unimpressive. Is the Emperor not treating her well?”

“…What’s the point?”

“I hope Lady Lenisha scolds Canary. Make her aware of her place.”

Linday sensed intense hostility from them.

She seemed to understand that emotion.

Originally, Canary was a servant who polished Lenisha’s shoes.

It was displeasing to them that such a Canary had risen due to the Emperor’s favor.

It was the pride of nobles.

Nobles studied and mastered many things to live as nobles.

They had to move according to a fixed schedule from morning to night and sometimes attend up to four classes all day long.

Canary was brought up by the Emperor’s favor without such efforts.

Highly self-respecting nobles had no intention of welcoming such a Canary.

Linday’s tension eased.

She remembered the day when Lenisha accepted them again.

‘They cannot betray me. Even if it’s for their sake, they will not betray me.’

She seemed to understand the meaning of that statement.

Welcoming and trusting Lenisha was for their sake.

To protect their pride and self-esteem.

Linday clicked her tongue.

Lenisha was sitting, gazing into the distance.

Where did that foresight come from?

Linday patted the maids on the back.

“Trust Lady Lenisha. Has she ever disappointed us?”

“No!”

“We believe her!”

Peace returned to Linday’s heart once again.

Hurrying along, Luna and Kian arrived at Hiloshine.

Kian couldn’t help but be surprised at the clearly changed appearance of Hiloshine since he left.

It was undoubtedly a desolate place, but in the meantime, it was filled with green grass, small flowers, and newly growing trees.

It had become a place more vibrant and lively than before.

“Uh, this isn’t…?”

“What are you talking about? This is the right place according to your directions.”

Annoyed, Luna retorted to Kian’s words.

Going around the vicinity repeatedly could only make her stomach turn.

Sighing, Luna grabbed Kian.

“It seems like someone planted seeds in your absence!”
Kian was pulled into Hiloshine by Luna.

Still, something familiar remained.

Hiloshine Castle, where restoration work was in full swing, welcomed them.

Now, the castle had its appearance back.

“Oh, you’re back?”

Those who recognized Kian welcomed him. Only then did Kian feel relieved.

“Who’s this beside you? No, did you bring a woman from the mission?”

“That’s not it!”

Kian shouted in denial.

It could be a subject of ridicule if he got it wrong.

Thinking of Lady Lenisha’s lady-in-waiting, Casiuus, there was no room for error.

Wearing a serious expression, Kian introduced Luna.

“She’s the one the Duke has been waiting for. Where is he?”

“…Ah, you probably didn’t know because you’ve been gone. His Grace is currently in Jedo…? It might take a bit for him to return.”

“What?”

Kian let out a disappointed laugh.

“Who is in charge here now?”

Terian answered Luna’s question.

“No one. I am Terian, responsible for His Grace’s duties.”

Terian and Luna locked eyes. Luna and Terian both thought simultaneously.

‘Not an easy opponent.’

Lenisha walked gracefully.

Casius escorted Lenisha to the front of the imperial palace and then returned.

Lenisha alone was attracting all sorts of attention.

The imperial servants whispered Lenisha’s name.

She had no interest in what they were gossiping about.

The sweet smell, mixed with various fragrances, filled the air after a long time.

It meant that the noble ladies had already arrived.

Canary opened the hall of the palace.

Whether she wanted to show her own status as the Empress, the interior was dazzlingly decorated.

Upon seeing it, Lenisha furrowed her brows.

‘Tacky.’

There was no trace of elegance or sophistication.

Lenisha covered her mouth with a fan.

Canary might not have been expected to do it perfectly, but…

Still, it should have been at least this level.

It felt like the dignity and pride Lenisha had maintained for so long were crumbling.

Now, even though it was a vacant position, was there still a sense of responsibility left?

Lenisha lightly clicked her tongue.

Lenisha arrived at the gathering place.

She gave Turriel one command.

Fill this place with the color Lenisha chose.

A blue wave was weaving in front of her.