Episode 94. Act
It was unclear whether he was praising or taunting Laxus. What were Prince Nerill's intentions? He'd gathered to celebrate the festival of the Three Serpent Gods, but everyone knew they were all entangled by their own interests.
But why would he make such an ambiguous statement?
"He's so fearless."
What if Laxus were to perform a sword dance like before? There was no way the swords pointed at Gale wouldn't turn against Prince Nerill. The Illian Kingdom didn't possess much national power or wealth.
"Prince Nerill."
Laxus burst into laughter. It was a refreshing laugh that dispelled everyone's anxieties.
"You think so. Unfortunately, you're wrong. I'm currently courting Renisha, like a peacock. You saw me before."
The expressions of those listening grew even more uncomfortable. They were reminded of the chaos from earlier. They looked as if they didn't know where the food was going. And what about Kassius?
Several people, including Renisha, turned their gazes to Kassius.
Clang!
Kassius's knife plunged upside down into the table. Those watching him abruptly turned their heads as if they'd seen something they shouldn't have. Renisha smiled at Kassius's adorable antics.
"My cute puppy."
Kassius, unable to hide anything and revealing everything, was so delightful. It was a world of difference from the twisted and disgusting Lexus.
The way Kassius sighed and pulled out his knife was also cute. Renisha smacked her lips. Sometimes, she thinks like that. She'd give up everything and just roll around in bed for a month, holding Kassius in her arms.
Renisha's eyes narrowed at the thought.
"That would be fun, too."
Kassius, completely unaware of Renisha's thoughts, was devouring his food with ferocity. He seemed ready to devour every last morsel in the room.
Meanwhile...
Prince Nerill seemed to genuinely have two lives.
“In fact, a woman so outstanding is not fit to sit next to you.”
“Why is that?”
“Because if the royal family gets too worked up, it’ll be a nuisance. So, Lady Renisha’s current position is appropriate.”
“What position do you think it is?”
Prince Nerill looked at everyone. Then he chuckled wryly.
“Let it slide. She’s practically His Majesty the Emperor’s mistress.”
“How impertinent!”
The nobles protested.
“Lady Renisha is the Duchess of Lottera! And she’s of noble blood! A bloodline even more noble than Prince Nerill’s! Where did you dare!”
The beard of the old noble who roared trembled. Most of the nobles Renisha disliked looked timid. Their arms were bent inward. They were the only ones who could criticize Renisha. Where did an outsider come from!
“The Duke of Lottera has been a family with a long and storied history! How embarrassing to hear.”
Others also expressed their displeasure.
In fact, the House of Lottera had existed as a single duchy.
The ancestor, who was considered the last Duke, had simply given up his autonomy and become subservient to the Emperor. Despite this, the House of Lottera was still able to raise private soldiers and enjoyed numerous other advantages.
And Laxus had handed the entire family over to Kassius of Hiloshine. Nevertheless, the past glories still lingered.
Who would dare insult a Prince whose right to the throne hadn't even been recognized?
Renisha of Hientri!
"Whoa, whoa. Why are you all so angry?"
Prince Nerill chuckled. Judging by his appearance, it was clear he was trying to manipulate Laxus. Renisha snickered. It seemed he was trying to please Laxus by belittling her.
How wrong he had been. Even after seeing Princess Donata fall apart earlier.
“I just thought I should learn something. I came here to find a bride. And while I’m at it, I should follow in Your Majesty’s footsteps and make a smart friend. Hahaha!”
Prince Nerill laughed loudly, clearly pleased with his own joke.
He paid no attention to the chill in the hall. Laxus raised his hand with a puzzled expression.
“Excuse me.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
“Imprison that lunatic immediately. And tell Prince Nerill’s homeland that he will pay the price for insulting and disparaging our great nobles. He will pay a price befitting Renisha!”
“Yes, Your Majesty!”
The knights shouted, their faces flushed.
Laxus seemed to be equally chilled. Prince Nerill resisted and was dragged away. Renisha snickered.
“He’s trying to get both.”
He must have at least a little bit of a desire to protect Renisha. And the rest is probably just using Prince Nerill as an excuse to get something out of it.
Honestly, who could possibly know what he's thinking?
Renisha tilted her head. Did Prince Nerill's words offend her? No. It was Laxus who made her feel that way. Wasn't that what she was prepared for from the moment she entered this palace? Rather than feeling offended, perhaps she's now detached. Or perhaps the anger deep within her is absorbing everything.
The second act closed with the second victim.
Turiel approached Kassius, who looked displeased.
Kassius was no different from a goose covered in mud, laying golden eggs. His reputation and abilities were undeniable, but his origins were problematic. That's why most nobles, though interested in Kassius, couldn't approach him.
Renisha stood beside Laxus, accompanied by her maids.
The excuse was, "Canary is not in a position to attend this meeting, so the most noble woman must stand in her place."
Who could argue with Laxus's words? People were being dragged away right before their eyes.
"Your Excellency."
Turiel smiled. An indifferent face turned to Turiel. This face, which sparkled in a vibrant hue in front of Renisha, became indifferent in any other place. Did Renisha know this?
She seemed to think it was special.
When she saw Renisha, disheveled from whatever had happened in the hall, she laughed in vain. If Lindy heard this story, she would weep, accusing Kassius of corrupting Renisha. However, in Turiel's view...
"It's the opposite."
A devilish woman who toyed with an innocent knight. This title suited Renisha better than Kassius; did the opposite? She couldn't forget Kassius, his face flushed bright red, rubbing his neck.
"What's going on?"
Kassius asked curtly.
“If you stand there with that expression, everyone will be afraid. Why don’t you dance?”
“I’m not interested.”
Kassius coldly turned his head.
“This is your chance to snatch Lady Renisha from the Emperor?”
“What?”
“There’s plenty of excuse for that. Go ask Lady Renisha to dance. You’ll drag her out from beside Laxus. Wouldn’t a man who moves be more attractive than one who just watches?”
Turiel threw a stone at Kassius, who wasn’t taking full advantage of the social gathering. The floor was empty right now, as they were trying to find a way to react, but wouldn’t it be more exciting if Kassius and Renisha stepped forward?
Or would it cool down?
Everyone was watching Laxus, who seemed displeased. They chose to be cautious rather than become the next victim.
With Renisha on that floor, Turiel and the Marquis of Danvers had a lot to do. With Count Calliot gone, they had to take care of his duties as well. They had to solidify their alliance with the external forces supporting Renisha.
Their job was to distribute invitations to the secret tea party Renisha had prepared and the costume ball to be held at the Duke's residence. The letters specified the "masks" they were to wear.
If they accepted, they would be invited behind the curtain, and if not...
"You must also practice the masquerade dance for the upcoming costume ball."
"Masquerade ball?"
"Typically, during the festival of the Three Serpent Gods, one banquet is held at the imperial court and one at the Duke's residence. This time, Lady Renisha has decided on the costume ball."
"Is Renisha attending?"
"Of course."
Turiel took charge of the banquet preparations. It had been caused by Renisha's sudden entry into the imperial palace.
Judging by Kassius's face, who had never heard of it before, it seemed Renisha had failed to deliver. Well, it was easy to forget, with the incident unfolding before anyone could catch their breath.
Turiel pushed Kassius on the back.
“Consider this a practice run, Your Excellency, the Duke.”
Encouraged by Turiel, Kassius strode briskly across the hall.
The nobles gathered in small groups, turned their gazes to Kassius.
When Kassius reached Renisha, some held their breath for no apparent reason. Kassius extended his hand to Renisha.
“Renisha. Will you dance... will you dance with me?”
Kassius’s face flushed like a burning sweet potato as his eyes met Renisha’s. Facing Renisha, the events of earlier flashed before him like a panorama.
Not in the intimate bedroom... in that kind of place.
Kassius gulped.
“Good,”
Renisha said briskly. Renisha took Kassius’ hand and descended the platform. Following her were Luna, who had a sullen expression, and Haylin, who looked nervous.
Leaving the Laxus, they headed to the floor, and the others to Turiel.
Renisha and Kassius stepped onto the floor, harmoniously paired like a pair of swans. As the center of the controversy settled on the floor, everyone's attention turned to them.
Prince Nerill was imprisoned, and the aides, who had been left in the state, were no exception.
"There truly is much to see in Hientri."
"Of all places, the Imperial Castle is the best. Hasn't there been so much to see since Laxus became Emperor!"
"Did Princess Donata give up completely?"
"I don't know. She's so out of it. Will she still have the courage to open her bedroom?"
"I'm looking forward to tomorrow."
A dark shadow fell over them as they chatted happily. It was the Marquis of Danvers.
"It's been a long time, everyone. Has it been a full year?"
"Ahem, His Majesty the Emperor has been hostile to the homeland."
"He never invited me."
"We need someone in this empire who can please him."
"Lady Renisha seems to have a knack for it."
"She's like a beauty who tames beasts."
"Haha. You sound so romantic. But I'm not really a romantic. If you're going to keep spouting off-topic like that, I shouldn't be here."
"Oh, really. With people. Why don't you have a drink with us and hang out?"
Just like the Princes of a country would say.
Dennis hid his feelings and sat down.
He had a job to do on stage this time.
It was unclear whether he was praising or taunting Laxus. What were Prince Nerill's intentions? He'd gathered to celebrate the festival of the Three Serpent Gods, but everyone knew they were all entangled by their own interests.
But why would he make such an ambiguous statement?
"He's so fearless."
What if Laxus were to perform a sword dance like before? There was no way the swords pointed at Gale wouldn't turn against Prince Nerill. The Illian Kingdom didn't possess much national power or wealth.
"Prince Nerill."
Laxus burst into laughter. It was a refreshing laugh that dispelled everyone's anxieties.
"You think so. Unfortunately, you're wrong. I'm currently courting Renisha, like a peacock. You saw me before."
The expressions of those listening grew even more uncomfortable. They were reminded of the chaos from earlier. They looked as if they didn't know where the food was going. And what about Kassius?
Several people, including Renisha, turned their gazes to Kassius.
Clang!
Kassius's knife plunged upside down into the table. Those watching him abruptly turned their heads as if they'd seen something they shouldn't have. Renisha smiled at Kassius's adorable antics.
"My cute puppy."
Kassius, unable to hide anything and revealing everything, was so delightful. It was a world of difference from the twisted and disgusting Lexus.
The way Kassius sighed and pulled out his knife was also cute. Renisha smacked her lips. Sometimes, she thinks like that. She'd give up everything and just roll around in bed for a month, holding Kassius in her arms.
Renisha's eyes narrowed at the thought.
"That would be fun, too."
Kassius, completely unaware of Renisha's thoughts, was devouring his food with ferocity. He seemed ready to devour every last morsel in the room.
Meanwhile...
Prince Nerill seemed to genuinely have two lives.
“In fact, a woman so outstanding is not fit to sit next to you.”
“Why is that?”
“Because if the royal family gets too worked up, it’ll be a nuisance. So, Lady Renisha’s current position is appropriate.”
“What position do you think it is?”
Prince Nerill looked at everyone. Then he chuckled wryly.
“Let it slide. She’s practically His Majesty the Emperor’s mistress.”
“How impertinent!”
The nobles protested.
“Lady Renisha is the Duchess of Lottera! And she’s of noble blood! A bloodline even more noble than Prince Nerill’s! Where did you dare!”
The beard of the old noble who roared trembled. Most of the nobles Renisha disliked looked timid. Their arms were bent inward. They were the only ones who could criticize Renisha. Where did an outsider come from!
“The Duke of Lottera has been a family with a long and storied history! How embarrassing to hear.”
Others also expressed their displeasure.
In fact, the House of Lottera had existed as a single duchy.
The ancestor, who was considered the last Duke, had simply given up his autonomy and become subservient to the Emperor. Despite this, the House of Lottera was still able to raise private soldiers and enjoyed numerous other advantages.
And Laxus had handed the entire family over to Kassius of Hiloshine. Nevertheless, the past glories still lingered.
Who would dare insult a Prince whose right to the throne hadn't even been recognized?
Renisha of Hientri!
"Whoa, whoa. Why are you all so angry?"
Prince Nerill chuckled. Judging by his appearance, it was clear he was trying to manipulate Laxus. Renisha snickered. It seemed he was trying to please Laxus by belittling her.
How wrong he had been. Even after seeing Princess Donata fall apart earlier.
“I just thought I should learn something. I came here to find a bride. And while I’m at it, I should follow in Your Majesty’s footsteps and make a smart friend. Hahaha!”
Prince Nerill laughed loudly, clearly pleased with his own joke.
He paid no attention to the chill in the hall. Laxus raised his hand with a puzzled expression.
“Excuse me.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
“Imprison that lunatic immediately. And tell Prince Nerill’s homeland that he will pay the price for insulting and disparaging our great nobles. He will pay a price befitting Renisha!”
“Yes, Your Majesty!”
The knights shouted, their faces flushed.
Laxus seemed to be equally chilled. Prince Nerill resisted and was dragged away. Renisha snickered.
“He’s trying to get both.”
He must have at least a little bit of a desire to protect Renisha. And the rest is probably just using Prince Nerill as an excuse to get something out of it.
Honestly, who could possibly know what he's thinking?
Renisha tilted her head. Did Prince Nerill's words offend her? No. It was Laxus who made her feel that way. Wasn't that what she was prepared for from the moment she entered this palace? Rather than feeling offended, perhaps she's now detached. Or perhaps the anger deep within her is absorbing everything.
The second act closed with the second victim.
***
Turiel approached Kassius, who looked displeased.
Kassius was no different from a goose covered in mud, laying golden eggs. His reputation and abilities were undeniable, but his origins were problematic. That's why most nobles, though interested in Kassius, couldn't approach him.
Renisha stood beside Laxus, accompanied by her maids.
The excuse was, "Canary is not in a position to attend this meeting, so the most noble woman must stand in her place."
Who could argue with Laxus's words? People were being dragged away right before their eyes.
"Your Excellency."
Turiel smiled. An indifferent face turned to Turiel. This face, which sparkled in a vibrant hue in front of Renisha, became indifferent in any other place. Did Renisha know this?
She seemed to think it was special.
When she saw Renisha, disheveled from whatever had happened in the hall, she laughed in vain. If Lindy heard this story, she would weep, accusing Kassius of corrupting Renisha. However, in Turiel's view...
"It's the opposite."
A devilish woman who toyed with an innocent knight. This title suited Renisha better than Kassius; did the opposite? She couldn't forget Kassius, his face flushed bright red, rubbing his neck.
"What's going on?"
Kassius asked curtly.
“If you stand there with that expression, everyone will be afraid. Why don’t you dance?”
“I’m not interested.”
Kassius coldly turned his head.
“This is your chance to snatch Lady Renisha from the Emperor?”
“What?”
“There’s plenty of excuse for that. Go ask Lady Renisha to dance. You’ll drag her out from beside Laxus. Wouldn’t a man who moves be more attractive than one who just watches?”
Turiel threw a stone at Kassius, who wasn’t taking full advantage of the social gathering. The floor was empty right now, as they were trying to find a way to react, but wouldn’t it be more exciting if Kassius and Renisha stepped forward?
Or would it cool down?
Everyone was watching Laxus, who seemed displeased. They chose to be cautious rather than become the next victim.
With Renisha on that floor, Turiel and the Marquis of Danvers had a lot to do. With Count Calliot gone, they had to take care of his duties as well. They had to solidify their alliance with the external forces supporting Renisha.
Their job was to distribute invitations to the secret tea party Renisha had prepared and the costume ball to be held at the Duke's residence. The letters specified the "masks" they were to wear.
If they accepted, they would be invited behind the curtain, and if not...
"You must also practice the masquerade dance for the upcoming costume ball."
"Masquerade ball?"
"Typically, during the festival of the Three Serpent Gods, one banquet is held at the imperial court and one at the Duke's residence. This time, Lady Renisha has decided on the costume ball."
"Is Renisha attending?"
"Of course."
Turiel took charge of the banquet preparations. It had been caused by Renisha's sudden entry into the imperial palace.
Judging by Kassius's face, who had never heard of it before, it seemed Renisha had failed to deliver. Well, it was easy to forget, with the incident unfolding before anyone could catch their breath.
Turiel pushed Kassius on the back.
“Consider this a practice run, Your Excellency, the Duke.”
Encouraged by Turiel, Kassius strode briskly across the hall.
The nobles gathered in small groups, turned their gazes to Kassius.
When Kassius reached Renisha, some held their breath for no apparent reason. Kassius extended his hand to Renisha.
“Renisha. Will you dance... will you dance with me?”
Kassius’s face flushed like a burning sweet potato as his eyes met Renisha’s. Facing Renisha, the events of earlier flashed before him like a panorama.
Not in the intimate bedroom... in that kind of place.
Kassius gulped.
“Good,”
Renisha said briskly. Renisha took Kassius’ hand and descended the platform. Following her were Luna, who had a sullen expression, and Haylin, who looked nervous.
Leaving the Laxus, they headed to the floor, and the others to Turiel.
Renisha and Kassius stepped onto the floor, harmoniously paired like a pair of swans. As the center of the controversy settled on the floor, everyone's attention turned to them.
Prince Nerill was imprisoned, and the aides, who had been left in the state, were no exception.
"There truly is much to see in Hientri."
"Of all places, the Imperial Castle is the best. Hasn't there been so much to see since Laxus became Emperor!"
"Did Princess Donata give up completely?"
"I don't know. She's so out of it. Will she still have the courage to open her bedroom?"
"I'm looking forward to tomorrow."
A dark shadow fell over them as they chatted happily. It was the Marquis of Danvers.
"It's been a long time, everyone. Has it been a full year?"
"Ahem, His Majesty the Emperor has been hostile to the homeland."
"He never invited me."
"We need someone in this empire who can please him."
"Lady Renisha seems to have a knack for it."
"She's like a beauty who tames beasts."
"Haha. You sound so romantic. But I'm not really a romantic. If you're going to keep spouting off-topic like that, I shouldn't be here."
"Oh, really. With people. Why don't you have a drink with us and hang out?"
Just like the Princes of a country would say.
Dennis hid his feelings and sat down.
He had a job to do on stage this time.
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