This is because I’m a retired woman, and I’m also a Systems Engineer who has developed commercial systems such as logistics systems and ordering systems, and I like to watch economic documentaries a lot.
“Young lady, don’t you think you would like to do such a thing yourself one day when you ascend to the position of Empress?” (Novak)
“What? No way, I would never want to do that.”
Novak’s words were instantly rejected by me as a reflex. It was a straightforward slash and burn.
Because! Even the event with the magical beast that I thought was so impossible happened just like in the game scenario!
If the villainess wants to be the empress and go after the prince, the flag of doom will be raised immediately! Absolutely! No way, I’m scared!
Ah, sorry about that, I just realized that Novak has gone completely pale…
“Oh, dear, I’m sorry. I’m sorry, I was selfish. However, you know I don’t really like to be part of the Imperial Family…” (Ekaterina)
“……I see.” (Novak)
“No, it’s okay, I’ve forgiven you.” (Ekaterina)
[3rd POV]
Novak sighed, but Alexei was in a rather good mood.
“Rozen, my sister is intelligent, isn’t she? Until I marry a wife, or she marries into another family, the Lady of Yurinova is Ekaterina, thus I command you to honor her as the Lady of the Order of Yurinova and offer her your allegiance.”
Alexei declared to Rozen.
“The day before the royal family arrives, offer your sword and take the oath of allegiance. If anything should happen to me, the Order shall make Ekaterina their master and obey her orders.”
“I have received your orders, my lord.” (Rozen)
The Knight Commander stood up and bowed with a fist to his chest.
“Your sister’s kindness and intelligence have been noted by Mardu, who has just joined the Order. I am honored to have you as a Lady of the Order.” (Rozen)
Lady of the Order? Offering a sword? What’s with that medieval chivalry story line and words that perfectly suits an “Otome fantasy romance”. I’m not sure what to say, but I can’t help but be moved.
Alexei patted his sister’s hair as she stared into his eyes and smiled.
“You still haven’t gotten many of the things you deserve as a daughter of Yurinova. Let’s get that right first. You’re weak, and you don’t need to aim for the Empress’s throne. For now, you should only think about preparing for an audience with Their Majesties.”
“Yes, big brother. I will do as you ask.”
Relieved, Ekaterina nodded.
Thank you, my dear brother. And I’m sorry for thinking that I should drop the sickly status. Being sickly is a good reason not to become an empress!
From now on, I’ll use the sickly setting as a countermeasure against the doom flag!
The next day, Ekaterina and Alexei took a carriage back to the Imperial residence of the Duke.
[Ekaterina’s POV]
In the vast gardens of the Duke’s residence in the Imperial Capital, the roses had already begun to bloom, and there were a number of gardeners busily tending to them that I have just noticed.
From now until the day of the event, they will adjust the blooming time for each variety so that it will be at its best on that day.
It is said that there are no varieties that are not found in Yurinova’s garden, but there are several ones that are found only in Yurinova’s garden. It must be very difficult to get them in full bloom on a certain day, so it is certainly a big event every year.
As of yesterday’s lunch, I had to scratch my head and wonder what I should do to prepare for the outfit. When I went back to the dormitory and told my maid, Mina, in a half-hearted complaint, she nodded blankly as usual.
“That’s a servant’s job, I’ll make the arrangements. Just think about what you want to wear, young lady.” (Mina)
