In this world, demonic beasts and monsters exist in reality, but there are also imaginary creatures whose existence is questionable, and they are called Youkai.
I’m uncertain if you can call a monster cat an imaginary creature, though.
The reason why Nicolai is with me is that Alexei had invited him to come too, if he wanted. He said he was worried about his sister, with whom he gets along so well that they fight.
“We have a stable at home, too. When you get tired of the flowers, you can look at the horses if you like. Since you are a warrior, I wonder if you are interested in swords and spears. I would be happy to show you some of the armor that has been handed down from our family’s ancestors.”
Knowing that it was unusual for Alexei to approach a classmate on his own, Ekaterina was eager to entertain Nicolai.
“That’s worth a look. I haven’t seen it in a while myself.”
Ekaterina couldn’t help the slight twitch in her mouth at the voice in question.
Why are you blending in here, Prince?
If it’s my garden, you’ve seen all of it the other day, but now it’s strange to see His Imperial Highness riding in the Krymov family carriage with his classmates!
Well, the moment I saw the Krymovs’ carriage arrive at the duke’s house and the four imperial knights guarding it, I knew it was possible.
As soon as the prince got out of the carriage after the Krymov siblings, who had an indescribable expression on their faces, he said, “Hey!” I just wanted to retort, “Why the heck are you doing this?”
The reason for this is that there are economic disparities even among the nobility, and not everyone has a carriage in the capital. I said, “Those who have carriages should give rides to those who don’t,” wrapped in a thick envelope. It was not my intention to make it convenient for you to go out on your own and blend in with the crowd.
If you’re coming, you’d better give me a heads-up and set up security or something!
…Ekaterina smiled brilliantly, shoving her inner cries of “I’m sorry!”
1st Person POV (Ekaterina’s)
“Well, have you ever been here before, Mikhael-sama?”
“Yes, a long time ago. When your grandfather was here, I came to visit Alexei, and he showed me around.”
I wonder if it was when Grandfather was still alive.
Mikhael’s voice suddenly dropped.
“… Ekaterina, I’m sorry for coming so suddenly. I’m sorry to come on such short notice, but this place is well guarded. I wanted to take a casual stroll with everyone for once.”
Oh….
Well, you know. I understand that because you are born a Royal Prince, it’s hard for you to go out and do things that people around you can easily do.
As a student, you are in the most comfortable position, and today, when the Duchess invited everyone to come, is a precious opportunity for you to become ‘like everyone else’… Maybe?
By the way, I heard that your father, His Majesty the Emperor, dined at a restaurant thanks to Grandfather when he was a student in an attempt to win over the woman of his dreams. I think.
“Besides, Mother had you all to herself the other day. I’d like to talk to you some more, too.”
What? Why?
I’ve learned a lot about diplomacy and trade. If you want to know something like that, why don’t you talk to the Empress directly?
Mikhael smiled, but Ekaterina just kept asking questions in her mind.
“Oh, Ekaterina-sama, the butler is here.”
Huh! That’s right!
I immediately responded to Flora’s voice.
I should have told them what to do. But Graham-san, your timing was perfect.
Ekaterina smiled gratefully at Graham, who was bowing at the perfect angle as a butler, at the best distance, not too close and not too far away.
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