Category: The Villainous Older Sister Who Loves Her Younger Sister Aims for the Guillotine

74: The Lord’s Chambers

There was a room for me in the lord’s mansion.

To be precise, it was the ‘lord’s chambers.’

Only the lord and their relatives were allowed to use it.

There was only one bed—a large four-poster.

I had slept with my parents when I was young, but after a certain age, I had slept in the guest room.

So—it wasn’t strange for me to claim the bed, large enough for three people, and tell Leticia to sleep elsewhere.

As the villainous sister, I could also have her sleep in the servants’ quarters. While it wouldn’t do for my sister to be looked down upon by the servants, perhaps Ciel’s room, as a high-ranking servant, would be acceptable…? And wouldn’t my sister be more comfortable there? —Yes, that might be a good idea.

Ciel, placing our luggage in a corner of the room, asked for confirmation.

“So, Lady Adelheid, is it alright for you to share a bed with Lady Leticia?”

The inner beasts within me, the jockeys of my mind, mounted their horses and took off.

“That’s fine,” galloped ahead, a seemingly sensible choice.

“Have my sister sleep in the servants’ quarters,” was a tempting option for a villainous sister.

“It’s okay for an older sister to use her younger sister as a body pillow, right?” was completely out of control.

The spectators in the stadium of my mind cheered wildly for their chosen horses.

“…Ciel, explain your reasoning.”

It was a surprisingly close race, so I decided to prolong it.

I had a faint hope that all the horses would fall during the long race, creating a fourth option.

“First, Lady Leticia is undoubtedly a relative of the lord.”

That was undeniable. She was the lord’s sister, even if only a half-sister, and the first in line of succession.

“If they sleep in separate rooms, there are security concerns. We would need to assign servants to each of you. And since it would require an additional room, there would be a slight increase in expenses.”

Structurally, the lord’s chambers were the most secure room in the mansion. Having all those who required protection in one place would make it easier for the guards.

While it wasn’t like paying for an extra room at an inn, since this was our own mansion, it would still require time and money to prepare. I didn’t want to waste money. I understood that.

While it was a paltry sum for a family of our means, a noble’s status was ultimately determined by their financial power—not their lineage.

Impoverished nobles were… pathetic. Especially for their subjects.

We shouldn’t be wasteful.

The fact that I had given Leticia an attic room and kept her allowance relatively small, as dictated by the setting of [Moonlight Liberium], was based on that principle.

It made it difficult for me to argue against Ciel’s reasoning.

“Besides, you shared a room with her during your first overnight trip for the riding lesson.”

…So there was a precedent.

Right, of course, I had saved money by not getting a separate room. And we had shared a bed before. Of course.

My inner noble lady, usually kept under wraps, emerged in full force.

While I had initially banished her to the sofa with a blanket and pillow, I was also the one who had let her into my bed when she was frightened by the thunder.

I felt a surge of recklessness, wanting to embrace the third option and declare, “Leticia, you will be my body pillow. Sisterly affection? Don’t be absurd. This is purely objectification! Mwahahaha!”

But I had to calm down.

Negotiations continued until the other party was exhausted and gave up.

I couldn’t give in so easily.

I was Adelheid von Vanderwaals.

The current head of the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals.”

“Um… Elder Sister…”

Leticia looked at me.

What was she going to say now?

No matter how adorable she was, I wouldn’t be swayed.

I steeled my resolve.

My sister, without a word, gently tugged on my sleeve and gazed at me intently.

Of course, I was instantly swayed.

…So, silence, huh?

That couldn’t be helped.

My resolve was to withstand any adorable words from my sister, not any adorable actions.

But was there any older sister who wouldn’t be swayed by such a cute gesture?

Could you even call yourself an older sister?

――No. Absolutely not.

“…Fine, whatever… it doesn’t matter.”

Even so, I tried my best to maintain my villainous sister facade and shook off her hand, which was still clutching my sleeve.

I immediately regretted it.

My sister still didn’t say anything.

But she smiled faintly.

And I… could only respond with sarcasm.

The men—the [Capture Targets]—who were openly affectionate towards her, must be seeing an even more adorable side of my sister.

A dark feeling, like a spreading stain, seeped into my heart, and I was bewildered.

I was used to malice. Our family thrived on it.

However, despite being called cold, heartless, cruel, ruthless, and wicked, I had never given such orders out of personal spite.

Perhaps that was why I was called those things.

Looking at my sister’s smile again, the dark cloud in my heart dissipated.

She was truly a precious sister, too good for someone like me.

…Would it be wrong to hug her and sleep with her…?

73: The Predetermined Path

An invitation from Konrad.

If my sister accepted, she would undoubtedly become closer to him. Though I wasn’t sure if it was part of the [Official Scenario].

I couldn’t help but gulp.

I tried to be discreet, but I wondered if they noticed.

Leticia smiled.

“We’re here on inspection… and Your Highness is here for an investigation, right? Please, focus on your work.”

And with that smile, she flatly rejected Konrad’s invitation.

――Well, I could make time for him if he asked.

Or rather, I was here partly for the [Event].

Was this the protagonist? Was this a true noble?

I was stunned by my sister, who prioritized her duties over a spontaneous invitation from the First Prince, the future king.

While it was possible she wasn’t interested in Konrad, considering the pleasant atmosphere between them earlier, she could have at least consulted me.

…No, this might be proof that my plan to be disliked by my sister, as the villainous sister, was proceeding smoothly. If that were the case, she wouldn’t casually consult me.

I decided to think positively.

While his invitation wasn’t accepted, Konrad, having also received encouragement, smiled and thanked her.

“…Yes, thank you.”

I could tell. While he was smiling, he was clearly dejected.

Prince Konrad, whose carefully planned invitation, squeezed into his limited free time, had been unceremoniously rejected, was pitiful.

I felt a twinge of sympathy for him.

――My sister turned to me, her entire body facing me, and smiled. While it was my subjective opinion, it was a brighter smile than the one she had given Prince Konrad.

“Elder Sister, thank you in advance for your guidance on the inspection starting tomorrow.”

Konrad glared at me, a resentful look that was as intense as his position as First Prince allowed, as if to say, I’ll be joining you on the inspection. Don’t look at me.

And while I had been thinking positively just now, She’s starting to dislike me, just like in the scenario, I was now thinking negatively.

…It would be easier if she hated me.

My sister wouldn’t choose me.

And I couldn’t be the ideal older sister she wanted.

I would walk the path of the head of the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals.”

Even for my beloved sister, that was one thing I couldn’t change.

“…Yes. You would do well to learn from Elder Sister. She’s a capable lord.”

Despite the slight barb, it was rare praise.

However…

“…I simply inherited it.”

“Lady Adelheid?”

Perhaps noticing the dejection in my voice, Konrad spoke.

His continued use of my former title, despite me being the head of the family now, showed his pettiness.

I wasn’t a ‘lady’ anymore.

Not just because of my age, but, more importantly, because I was the ‘head of the family.’

…But perhaps, as the title ‘villainous sister’ suggested, I was still just a child.

“The territory, and the way of managing it, cultivated by the previous generations of the Vanderwaals…”

――I only knew this way.

Was I wrong?

Had my predecessors, including my father, been wrong?

Had the previous heads of the family struggled with such thoughts?

I couldn’t ask them anymore.

My father had passed away before I was ready.

…Why was I… confiding in this man, of all people?

“…Can you really manage it just by inheriting it?”

I thought Konrad would take advantage of my vulnerability and make a sarcastic remark, but, surprisingly, he didn’t.

“If an amateur gardener with no knowledge inherited a beautiful garden, could they maintain its beauty? —I believe I told you excessive modesty is a form of arrogance, Adelheid von Vanderwaals.”

…Ah, I see.

“You are the head of the Vanderwaals family. You are admirably… yes, admirably… maintaining everything you inherited from the previous generation.”

The reason Konrad was being unusually kind to me…

“I don’t approve of your methods. But I cannot deny the results.”

…was because he was the same.

We couldn’t create something from nothing.

We were ‘blessed by birth.’ We hadn’t chosen it.

I was the eldest child of a ducal family, and he was the eldest child of the royal family.

The right to inherit a title, or the throne, followed birth order, unless there were serious doubts about one’s qualifications.

That was how our futures had been decided.

Our paths were determined by the blood flowing through our veins, even before we were born.

We were only allowed to deviate from that path if we were deemed incompetent—if we were told, “We don’t need someone like you, a failure.”

And we… were competent. Competent enough to stay on the path.

I disliked him, and he likely disliked me.

Perhaps we were… too similar.

“…It’s an honor to receive such praise from the future king, Your Highness.”

We weren’t allowed to wallow in self-pity.

That wasn’t the role we were given.

Even so…

“When you become king, you will rule the country in your own way. And I will serve you as your vassal, in my own way.”

I could at least offer him that small courtesy.

Of course, I had no intention of keeping that promise, since I was scheduled for the guillotine.

Let him suffer.

I would pave the way for my adorable sister Leticia, but beyond that… I didn’t know.

“Duty and loyalty, Your Highness.”

“Yes, duty and loyalty, Lady Adelheid.”

Leticia, seeing Konrad and me exchange a rare, genuine smile, murmured,

“You two get along well…”

“We don’t.”

“We don’t.”

There was no truth to that.

72: If There Is No Equality in This World

What if my sister wasn’t the [Protagonist] of [Moonlight Liberium]?

Leticia had said, “I’m the only one.”

There were many others like her, who had to survive alone.

In that “back alley.” In the dilapidated district we formally called the ‘old town district,’ where officially, no one lived.

There were many girls who didn’t have a matching pocket watch, a letter from their mother, or a noble father.

Many girls who weren’t ‘my sister.’

The Vanderwaals family’s support was, after all, just a limited, temporary fix.

There was no lie in my words when I called myself the embodiment of inequality. I had only saved my sister from the “back alley.”

I believed that would save many more people. That was the plot.

Even so, I had abandoned them.

The other children in the same situation as my sister.

Even now, there might be children dying, resenting the world, cursing their fate.

I possessed the coldness to dismiss them, to consider it unavoidable.

…But I hadn’t completely abandoned the weakness that made me ache for them, the helplessness I felt at being unable to save them.

Leticia looked up.

She looked at the two of us and then averted her gaze.

“Even so… I wanted… a little more equality. I wanted a job where I would be paid fairly, a position where I wouldn’t be exploited…”

…What I was giving her wasn’t ‘equality.’

What I was offering her wasn’t an independent life, but a future tied to the seat of the family head.

That was the ‘happiness’ I envisioned for her.

I wished true equality existed.

I wished there was another way to protect people’s happiness, a way different from the inequality we nobles had perpetuated for generations.

…Perhaps that was what the revolutionary government of Ruins had wanted.

They called themselves a republic. They tried to create a peaceful nation where everyone worked together.

But no one knew how.

I didn’t know either.

…I suddenly thought of [Moonlight Liberium].

I didn’t understand how that romance simulation game worked. It was similar to reading a book. The [Event Stills] were like illustrations.

But it was more than that. It had elements that enhanced immersion.

The character illustrations sometimes moved, and their voices played simultaneously.

Music played in the background, changing with each scene. Sometimes calm, sometimes unsettling, sometimes passionate.

They couldn’t possibly have a live orchestra… how did they do it?

My sister’s voice acting was good, and so were the voices of the others… the confession scenes, in particular, were whispered as if directly into your ear. It was a moment of weakness I would regret for the rest of my life, being moved by Prince Konrad’s voice, of all people.

It was like magic—and yet, the story it told was a typical romance, the kind you would find in a bookstore or see performed in a theater.

What a waste of technology.

…A world where such magical technology could be used for entertainment…

If only it were just a playful stage for romance.

…No, wait, what would I be doing in that case?

There was no one suitable for a political marriage right now.

No man I would entrust my everything to.

…I glanced at Leticia, who was still looking down.

“I’m from the ‘back alley.’ I wasn’t born a noble…”

She murmured, as if reflecting on her circumstances.

She took a deep breath and looked up defiantly.

“—But I am a noble of Eustasia now. If there is no equality in this world, we will bear the burden. To bring us a little closer… to equality.”

We were the embodiment of inequality.

We couldn’t abandon the ruling class.

The peace we sought was maintained by a power structure built on inequality.

It wasn’t perfect. There were those who suffered. Those who couldn’t be saved. Even rulers struggled.

There was no such thing as perfect governance.

Even so.

If there was no equality in this world…

――We would bear the burden.

Her words were the words of a noble.

“There must be something only I can do. And something only Your Highness can do—as the future ruler of this country.”

“…Yes, you’re right.”

Konrad smiled, a hint of sadness in his eyes.

“Duty and loyalty. Lady Leticia, I swear on your words that I will strive to be a good king. —That is the duty I bear.”

The more a king strived for perfection, the lonelier he became. A benevolent ruler couldn’t be without a human heart, yet a ruler who couldn’t see people as numbers was surely a foolish one.

――That’s why we were needed.

The nobles who swore loyalty to the king and fulfilled their duties.

Those who were granted territories, each bearing their share of responsibility, passing it down through generations.

Leticia undoubtedly had noble blood flowing through her veins.

But at the same time, she was the one who denied the very idea of aristocracy.

If someone from her background could acquire such noble ideals and the ability to act on them… then nobles weren’t necessary.

We nobles received education from birth—not from the age of sixteen, like her.

Well, there were some who hadn’t absorbed their noble education.

Even so, the underlying principle was that it was better to educate and raise children from a young age, ensuring a minimum level of competence, rather than selecting those with aptitude… perhaps aristocracy was, surprisingly, a system that believed in the power of education.

And a considerable number of commoners, like Judith and Ciel, were involved in the actual governance of the country.

The people weren’t powerless.

While they might not have succeeded in creating a better nation, the revolutionaries of Ruins had instilled a sense of crisis in the ruling class—they had reawakened the fear of the dormant guillotine.

The fear they had awakened was surely one of the reasons I would be sent to the guillotine.

Konrad, who had likely been reflecting on his own words and renewing his resolve, spoke hesitantly.

“…As the First Prince, barring any unforeseen circumstances, I am destined to be king. Much is expected of me.”

“? Yes.”

Konrad looked nervous, while Leticia, though her expression was serious, seemed to have returned to her usual self.

“…Wi… wi… —Will you… support me from now on, Lady Leticia?”

“Yes, Your Highness. As a noble, I will support the royal family in any way I can.”

My sister smiled in response.

Prince Konrad breathed a sigh of relief and smiled, his guard down.

What a heartwarming scene.

He was probably about to ask her to support him… by his side.

…While it wasn’t an official line, it resembled a [Confession Line] from later in the game, after their relationship had deepened.

That line went like this—[“I want you to support me, by my side, from now on. As my queen, as my wife… as my lover… Leticia, will you marry me?”]

And then he would offer her a wedding ring in a beautiful box.

While a bit… no, very cheesy, it was a grand gesture that would surely make any woman swoon.

It was also a risky move, considering the possibility of rejection.

Incidentally, the [Choices] were [1. “Yes!”] and… [2. “I’m sorry.”].

The fact that there was still an option to refuse after becoming so close was terrifying.

It truly was a romance simulation game where everything depended on the [Protagonist]’s choices.

Since I had only followed each route along a linear path to the [Ending], I didn’t know what would happen if she chose “I’m sorry.”

While I would never refuse such a confession, I was slightly curious about his reaction if she did.

Konrad cleared his throat and composed himself.

“So, um… Lady Leticia.”

“Yes, Your Highness?”

“If you have some free time in your schedule… I was wondering if we could… spend some time together…”

71: The Embodiment of Inequality

I decided to escort Konrad, despite him being the First Prince, back to the entrance hall after our meeting with Judith. His guards had already left to prepare the carriage.

As we walked along the red-carpeted hallway, Leticia addressed Prince Konrad.

“Your Highness, how was the inspection? I heard inspections and investigations are different, and this is my first inspection.”

Oh, how I wished I could explain it to her step by step.

“Well…”

Prince Konrad paused, as if considering his words.

“[It was a fruitful journey.]”

My heart skipped a beat.

“[Having been raised as a prince, this is the only way I can learn about the lives of the people. I’ll probably never truly understand. But… it made me want to protect them. It was a journey that made me want to fulfill my duty.]”

The sudden [Official Line]. The unpleasant jolt of déjà vu. The moment when the world seemed to lose some of its color, feeling artificial.

Also, such noble words didn’t suit him.

As a royal, his words weren’t bad, but he was still a novice.

Even so, compared to some nobles who declared in public, with a straight face, that “commoners are nothing but sacks of meat that produce taxes,” he was much better.

Though such nobles tended to be quite unpopular and were now, thankfully, deceased.

“[Lady Leticia, my perspective has changed in many ways since meeting you. I believe it’s a change for the better… I hope to continue learning from you.]”

Translated using a special dictionary, it probably meant, “I fell in love with someone from the ‘back alley,’ so it became a personal issue, and now I’m interested.”

I wouldn’t say it was a bad thing.

In the game, my sister didn’t have any lines or choices here.

This scene wasn’t supposed to involve me at all.

But here I was.

“Konrad, while my sister’s perspective is valuable, don’t rely on it too much.”

So, I decided to offer a word of caution.

“…Of course.”

While my sister was adorable, I didn’t want the future king to become so infatuated that he turned into a lovesick fool, a cheap imitation of a ‘prince charming’ from a romance novel.

“Leticia, you might be familiar with the lives of commoners. But remember this. You only know your life. …Everyone is different.”

――The Vanderwaals’ way was to erase those differences with fear and profit.

Fear alone couldn’t control people.

If they were chained in a cold prison, they would resent, hate, and try to escape.

But even if it was a prison, if they could find happiness there…

One of the reasons I didn’t abandon my restrictive noble lifestyle, despite feeling suffocated by it, was the luxurious environment: the gourmet meals, the spacious hot springs, the soft bed, the maids who attended to my every need…

――I had already accepted it, as a noble by birth.

I had lived as a noble, from the day I was born until now.

“…Adelheid von Vanderwaals.”

“What is it, Konrad von Eustasia?”

Since he used my full name, I returned the favor.

“…You’re a good lord.”

“Huh?”

I responded instinctively, almost without thinking.

This guy… was complimenting me?

Was this a sign of an impending natural disaster or epidemic? Or was he the source of the problem?

“I was ordered to inspect Vandergant… so I could learn from how this territory is managed. And to learn without preconceptions… no, to learn with a critical eye.”

“…And my territory… met your standards?”

He affirmed with a serious expression.

“Yes… I’ll admit it. It’s one of the best-managed territories in the Kingdom of Eustasia, perhaps even on the continent.”

“That’s an exaggeration. Compared to the southern granaries or the trading cities along the Altrein River, it’s…”

“You’ve managed to make this territory prosperous without the advantages of fertile land, natural harbors, or river trade… Excessive modesty is just another form of arrogance.”

While I welcomed arrogance… his compliments were unsettling.

“…Even a lord as capable as you… cannot achieve equality?”

“No, I cannot.”

I answered immediately.

“…Why? Eustasia currently has the resources to help the less fortunate.”

I stopped walking.

Konrad and Leticia also stopped, half a step behind.

“We are the embodiment of inequality, Konrad.”

Prince Konrad fell silent.

He knew that, didn’t he?

Had he always been this naive? …Love truly changed people.

“It was a ‘fruitful journey,’ wasn’t it? Judith’s words resonated with you—even with power, there are things you cannot achieve.”

There were those who once sought power.

Before the rise of the nation of Eustasia, embers of conflict smoldered on this continent.

There was once a great nation, a bloated empire stretched thin like an old, overfilled wineskin.

It was too large to be governed effectively—or rather, perhaps they had no intention of governing, aside from collecting taxes.

I didn’t even know if it could be called a nation.

What should you call a country where there was little difference between tax collectors and bandits?

In the distant past, might made right. Everything was decided by the whims of those in power.

Who could feel safe?

When currying favor with, flattering, kneeling before, and offering your pride to the powerful became the ‘correct’ way to live.

Those in power accepted it, their power growing, becoming intoxicated and drowning in their absolute authority.

With a wave of their hand, many people died. Taxes, born from whims, burdened the people, and judgments changed on a whim.

Injustice remained injustice.

That was the ‘norm’ in this world.

That was why the founding king of Eustasia took up the sword.

The martial Hargau, the mercantile Wirtschaft, and the scheming Vanderwaals.

Led by the families that would become the three ducal houses of the Kingdom of Eustasia, including my own, uniting the feudal lords who would become the future nobles, he plunged the continent into war.

He sought order, shining brightly even when stained with blood, rather than a distorted stability built on resentment.

How much blood had been spilled?

We lived on land soaked in the blood of our ancestors—and our enemies.

Even so, there were those who sought power.

Those who established a monarchy, established laws beneath it, and tried to rule the nation according to those laws.

We, the nobles of the Kingdom of Eustasia, were their descendants.

Descendants of those who swore loyalty and bore their duties.

“…Your Highness,” my sister, who shared that blood, addressed the prince, a direct descendant of the founding king.

“I was born in the ‘back alley.’ I was probably… far from the ‘equality’ you speak of.”

“Yes, that’s why I want to help—”

“We don’t want help.”

She declared quietly, but firmly.

Konrad looked taken aback.

“Oh, no, I mean, help would be appreciated… but… I know there’s no such thing as equality.”

Leticia laughed.

Her lips curved into a smile—but her eyes seemed to be looking somewhere far away.

“That’s not—”

“Elder Sister just said it, didn’t she, Your Highness? I’m a ducal lady now. I eat delicious food, wear clean clothes, and take luxurious baths… I’m the only one.”

Neither of us could say anything to my sister, who had lowered her head.

“Elder Sister is kind, so she treats even someone like me well.”

No, that wasn’t it. I was simply giving her what a ducal daughter deserved.

It wasn’t because I was kind.

However, it wasn’t the right time to interject.

“I know I’m just taking advantage of my position as a noble relative.”

That wasn’t true.

She was the [Protagonist] of [Moonlight Liberium].

She deserved everything she received.

…But what if… that story didn’t exist?

A voice, like a wall lizard, whispered in my mind.

70: Judith

We returned to the drawing-room of the lord’s mansion.

Ciel and the prince’s guards were stationed outside.

This was supposed to be a private meeting between leaders. We had asked them to excuse themselves.

However, I couldn’t completely isolate the prince, so we maintained the pretense of a meeting without guards.

While I wasn’t sure if I should have my sister present, she needed to get used to such situations. The prince wouldn’t object.

Konrad and I sat facing each other on the sofas, a low table between us.

Judith sat on one of the chairs next to the low table.

…And Leticia was next to me.

While I thought Judith and I should be sitting together, with Konrad and Leticia opposite us… according to [Moonlight Liberium], it was Judith, not I, who had decided on the seating arrangement.

Well, there was nothing wrong with the lord and her sister sitting together.

And since he was the First Prince, it was understandable that he would be seated opposite the head of the ducal family and her younger sister.

“No tea or sweets? You’re very straightforward, Your Highness.”

Judith smiled, wrinkles forming around her mouth.

“I simply don’t intend to stay long. Please, don’t mind me.”

Konrad returned the smile gracefully.

“What business brings you here today?”

“As you know, I’m here on inspection. I’d like to hear from you, the Acting Lord of Vandergant, about any potential concerns you have regarding the territory.”

“Isn’t that what the inspection is for?”

“Of course. However, I’m not sure how to write my report… I’d like to hear your opinion, Acting Lord Judith.”

Judith looked at me.

“You have my permission. Consider it an advance report to the lord. Tell him what you can.”

“…Shouldn’t you be completely transparent in such situations?”

“I would say that… if I were speaking to His Majesty.”

I scoffed at Prince Konrad’s words.

Unfortunately for him, he lacked the weight of authority and trust.

That being said, he was the First Prince. He was here as His Majesty’s representative.

Well, if there were any obvious irregularities within a prince’s view, things would be truly rotten.

Konrad was just a figurehead for the inspection; the real work was done by the other personnel while everyone’s attention was on him.

Still, asking about ‘concerns’ was a malicious move.

It was like asking the Acting Lord who was more important: the ducal family or the royal family.

Answering honestly about her concerns would tarnish the ducal family’s reputation, while a sugarcoated answer would cast doubt on her loyalty to the royal family.

Leticia, sensing this, looked nervously at me, Konrad, and then Judith.

Judith smiled calmly.

“I have no concerns.”

A completely pro-Vanderwaals answer. Konrad’s eyebrows twitched.

“There are no signs of war with other countries, no reports of bandits, the crime rate is stable, and the autumn harvest looks promising. The only concern is that the winter might be particularly cold, which could drive up firewood prices…”

Leticia looked down.

…In the “back alley,” few homes had fireplaces.

The poor died in winter. Even in the capital, the warmest region in Eustasia, the cold weakened people, making them susceptible to illness.

Leticia had said she caught a cold.

Anyone could catch a cold. Kings, nobles, knights, commoners, all equally.

And the poor, who had no warm rooms, no thick blankets, no nutritious meals… they died.

Leticia had survived… luckily.

“…So everything is going well in Vandergant?”

“I wouldn’t say that. There are limits to what can be done through governance. …Even so, we have the Vanderwaals family as our lord. Competent nobles are surprisingly rare.”

She didn’t have to say that last part.

“…Of course, with the support of the royal family.”

Her added words, spoken with a smile, sounded like pure sarcasm.

I had to give Konrad credit for maintaining his affable smile.

Judith addressed the prince in a calm voice.

“…Your Highness, what have you seen in Vandergant? And what concerns you?”

“…The people of the former Principality of Ruins.”

“Ah, yes, there are those who have fled from that country. What about them?”

“…They don’t seem to be… thriving.”

It wasn’t a significant ‘concern’ on a national level.

The reason he brought it up was probably—because of Leticia.

“That’s unavoidable. Their meager possessions were spent on travel; they have no resources. Their circumstances are different from those who have lived and worked the land for generations.”

“…I understand. But they are citizens of Vandergant, are they not?”

Judith nodded.

“Indeed. In Vandergant, in accordance with kingdom law, one is considered a citizen if they pay a year’s worth of poll tax in a lump sum, reside in one place and pay monthly taxes, or perform the required labor. …Have they been treated in any way that violates kingdom law?”

“…No. Not on a large scale, at least.”

He was probably projecting my sister’s image onto the poor.

I had been there. Let him stew over it.

Even great nobles and the royal family couldn’t treat all citizens equally.

It was a matter of where you set the bar for a ‘good ruler.’

While this wasn’t an era of war, if we neglected our defenses, our territory could be wiped off the map.

I wasn’t the best lord, but I certainly wasn’t the worst.

“Your Highness, do you wish to be a ruler who listens to the opinions of his subjects?”

“…Yes, I do.”

So, she was about to offer her opinion.

And if he tried to interrupt or interfere, it would reveal his qualities as a future king…

Well, I would leave it to Judith.

“Then, be patient. If you stay on the right path, you will become the next king.”

Before us lay a path paved with a red carpet.

The most prestigious, blood-soaked path in the world.

The path of rulers, the path that royalty and nobles were destined to walk from birth.

“Do you remember the ‘Republic’ of Ruins… the nation where the people tried to rule themselves? …The people are not powerless. But they are not omnipotent. People follow those who speak of ideals. However, goats can sometimes traverse rocky mountains where sheep cannot…”

Ruins was a country where the ‘legitimate royal family’ had almost been extinguished.

Shortly after I became the head of the family, it changed its name from a principality to a republic, following a rebellion they called a ‘revolution.’

Its head was replaced… or rather, removed.

It was the swords of the Eustasia Knights that cut down the so-called revolutionary government, established under the banner of popular rule, and it was the hooves of their horses that trampled on their proclaimed freedom.

But it had been rotten from the inside before that.

The people weren’t powerless, nor were they foolish.

However, we, the ruling class, had been taught statecraft from birth.

If you simply imitated the superficial aspects… and rejected only those superficial aspects, it was perhaps inevitable that an even uglier political drama would unfold than under the rule of the royal family and nobles.

Ultimately, the neighboring countries treated it as a rebellion.

They installed the legitimate royal family, who had survived through marriages with other countries, and restored everything to the way it was—except for the appropriate benefits we received.

We were afraid. Afraid of being beheaded on that old-fashioned guillotine.

An antique, rarely used now.

The ultimate form of dishonorable execution.

The future that awaited me.

A symbol of a bygone era, and also a symbol of change.

While the current nations had done similar things to what the revolutionaries in Ruins had done, the circumstances were different between the chaotic era of constant warfare and the current era of peace.

The Vanderwaals founding war began with the feudal lords rebelling against the reign of terror wielded by the previous ruler, who threatened them with the guillotine.

While our ancestors were similar to the revolutionaries of Ruins in that they sent the previous ruler to the guillotine, there was a crucial difference.

Our ancestors then established a reasonably functional government.

Naturally. Our ancestors had already been ruling their territories.

They had their own armies, albeit small, and were the heads of their own ‘nations,’ albeit small.

They negotiated with other ‘nations,’ formed alliances, combined their power… and that led to the present.

While the revolutionary ideals were interesting, the result was… that.

“Don’t try to be a heroic mountain goat. We are but shepherds, guiding the way with our staffs. Our only job is to choose a path where the sheep can walk and to ensure they have plentiful pastures.”

Perhaps someday, all citizens would be equally educated, and the most capable among them would be chosen to lead the way.

Perhaps my beheading, and the ascension of someone with Leticia’s perspective to a position of power, was a step towards that future.

Even so, that day wasn’t today, and it wasn’t tomorrow.

It was a distant future.

I touched the crested pocket watch tucked into my pocket, beneath the embroidered crest on my jacket.

Gears couldn’t move unless their teeth meshed properly.

The hands of the clock moved forward. This world progressed, little by little.

One second at a time, never turning back.

The Republic of Ruins had tried to force the hands of the clock forward.

And it broke.

I—I wouldn’t make the same mistake.

I would follow fate, tracing the scenario faithfully, scene by scene, act by act.

Well, with a few minor deviations.

Judith’s calm voice broke the silence that had filled the drawing-room after Konrad fell silent.

“…I am from Ruins, Your Highness.”

“…What?”

“I came here before the revolution. I traveled back and forth, leading caravans… and eventually decided to settle down here.”

I had heard it was because she had a child.

Her partner had passed away long ago, but she had been blessed with children and grandchildren.

The experience, knowledge, and, most importantly, the connections she had cultivated during her time leading caravans… A skilled caravan leader, intimately familiar with the lives of commoners, skillfully navigating their world, buying and selling goods as they traveled… it was like ruling a mobile territory.

While her pregnancy had apparently been unplanned, she had successfully handed over leadership of the caravan, settled down, made a name for herself in Vandergant’s merchant guilds, and been invited by the young previous lord—my father—to serve the Vanderwaals family, demonstrating her adaptability.

She was a rare talent, able to balance seemingly contradictory qualities: optimizing daily routines and adapting to unexpected situations.

She wasn’t overbearing, and the civil officials under her command were flourishing. Our territory was large, and we had the resources to invest in developing talent. And, I might add, the means to retain them with higher salaries.

“That land… is my home. …It was a small, suffocating country, but it didn’t deserve to be burned…”

Her homeland hadn’t been destroyed by foreign invaders, but by its own folly. She must have mixed feelings about it.

Judith smiled gently at Prince Konrad, who was listening with a solemn expression.

“…May you become a wise king, Your Highness. The Vandergant territory will surely be of assistance…”

The Kingdom of Eustasia wouldn’t be a kingdom without the territories of the great nobles.

It was the addition of those territories that made the kingdom truly strong.

“…Yes. This has been a valuable learning experience.”

Konrad nodded seriously, then looked at me and smiled.

“You’re blessed with a capable Acting Lord, Lady Adelheid.”

“I’m confident in her abilities.”

While it could be taken as sarcasm, it was also true, so I wasn’t offended.

69: [The First Prince on Inspection]

Prince Konrad, approaching my sister with a smile, looked at me.

“…And Lady Adelheid, I never expected to meet you here as well.”

While he used the same line, his tone was noticeably less enthusiastic.

…This guy clearly had a thing for my sister.

While I didn’t like him, I had to give him credit for his taste in women.

“Indeed. I’m surprised as well. Are you alone?”

“…Hardly.”

Konrad chuckled wryly.

“I have guards. Just like you.”

If someone attempted to destabilize Eustasia, we would be among the most valuable targets.

Objectively speaking, I, as the head of the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals,” was probably the more important target, but once he became king, that would change.

Since this was my own territory, the Vanderwaals’ “shadows” had established a three-dimensional security net, from the roads ahead and behind to the rooftops… though they were invisible.

The royal family would also have tight security around the First Prince. ――We had no say in the matter.

The use of our lives had already been decided.

“If you’re returning to the lord’s mansion, I can offer you a ride.”

Translated using a special dictionary, it meant, “I want to impress your sister. And I want to spend time with the girl I like in the same carriage.”

Whether that was endearing or creepy depended on your opinion of him.

“…We’ll accept your kind offer.”

It was best to simply follow fate’s arrangements.

As we reached the main street, Konrad raised his hand, and a carriage promptly arrived and stopped. I reflexively checked for a crest, but there wasn’t one.

At first glance, it looked like an ordinary two-horse, four-passenger carriage for hire.

However, the smooth ride, the quality of the horses… were far beyond what you’d expect from a hired carriage. ――And, more importantly, the coachman and the man sitting next to him were clearly skilled guards.

While perhaps not on Ciel’s level, they both wore swords at their hips, and I wouldn’t be able to easily defeat them in a two-on-one fight, even with weapons.

I wasn’t sure if my belief that Ciel could handle them stemmed from blind faith in my governess, who had served me since childhood… or from a purely objective assessment of her skills. The two were intertwined, inseparable.

However, currently, relations between the Eustasia royal family and the Vanderwaals were amicable, so such calculations were merely a habit, not a necessity.

While the prince and I didn’t get along, perhaps because he was interested in my sister, he seemed to be holding back on his usual barbs towards me, her older sister.

Konrad boarded the carriage first and then offered his hand to Leticia with a smile.

“Lady Leticia, may I?”

“…Thank you, Your Highness.”

Leticia politely took his hand, as etiquette dictated, and sat in the back.

Konrad was about to sit next to her—

“Your Highness.”

“Yes?”

—when Leticia spoke.

“You offered me your hand, didn’t you?”

“…Yes.”

Konrad looked bewildered.

While I found it amusing, I was also bewildered.

I didn’t understand what my sister was getting at.

“Please extend the same courtesy to my Elder Sister.”

I exchanged a look with Konrad.

That was unexpected—however, there was nothing wrong with her request.

Long ago, only men could become kings or heads of families. Women’s rights were more restricted than men’s.

During times of war, women, who didn’t fight on the battlefield, were looked down upon.

However, with wars of attrition demanding all available resources, and a severe shortage of soldiers, some countries began to employ female soldiers, albeit in limited roles, and opened knighthood to women.

Furthermore, when a male head of family died in battle and there were no male heirs in the direct line, many countries chose the closest blood relative, regardless of gender, when deciding who should inherit the family.

And those who made that choice won.

They became the victors, the ones who wrote history.

It was because of that historical trend that I now held the position of family head.

It might not have been complete equality. Even now, most soldiers and knights were men, with few women serving in the military, even fewer as knights.

While female heads of families weren’t unheard of, they were still a minority.

…I imagined some families probably had their husbands handle such troublesome duties.

In any case, the etiquette between men and women, and vice versa, still remained.

Such customs would likely never disappear completely, and if they did, romance novelists might struggle to find sources of conflict.

Well, that was irrelevant.

The problem now was…

…neither of us wanted to show the other such courtesy.

In public, of course, we would both tolerate it… but this wasn’t a public setting.

However, our interests aligned—Konrad didn’t want to offend the older sister and risk alienating the younger sister, and I didn’t want to set a bad example by disregarding the manners I had taught her—so we ended the silent standoff.

“…Please, Lady Adelheid.”

“Yes, thank you, Your Highness.”

We exchanged insincere smiles.

Outwardly, at least, our graceful gestures were textbook examples of proper etiquette. I took his hand and boarded the carriage.

We both looked at my sister, who nodded in satisfaction, and I was relieved.

Konrad probably felt the same.

He was still the First Prince, after all. And I was the head of a ducal family.

Even if our relationship was a strained one, not quite deserving of the term ‘childhood friends,’ we weren’t in a position to disregard etiquette.

Leticia wasn’t a noble by birth and hadn’t received a noble upbringing from a young age.

However, seeing her awareness of such manners, I was reminded of the power of education and the benefits it bestowed upon those who were receptive to it.

…If the situation were reversed, and my sister had been treated disrespectfully, I would have been furious.

Konrad seemed to want to sit next to my sister, but I used my position, having been escorted in, to push him to the far side and then gracefully settled into the seat next to the door, securing my position.

While I also wanted to sit next to my sister, I didn’t have the courage.

Ciel boarded the carriage and sat next to Leticia, then closed the door.

Apparently, there was once a rule that servants didn’t ride in the same carriage as their masters, but it had gradually become less strict due to the inconvenience of using multiple carriages and the inability to hold meetings during travel… The custom had eroded over time.

That aside, this was actually my first time riding in a carriage with this prince.

He had been the first in line to the throne since birth.

I had been the first in line to inherit my title since birth.

Both our families had their own carriages, and there had never been a need for us to travel together.

Since conversations inside a moving carriage were unlikely to be overheard, they were sometimes used for confidential discussions, but in such cases, they wouldn’t bring children along.

Furthermore, as someone accustomed to using her own family’s carriage, it felt strange to be in a royal carriage—even a disguised one—with Prince Konrad.

I addressed the prince, sitting next to me.

“Your Highness, what brings you here?”

I knew, but I asked anyway.

He also knew that I knew, but I asked anyway.

“His Majesty tasked me with inspecting Vandergant. I was just walking through the city.”

“I see. You’ve been entrusted with a position of great responsibility.”

The Kingdom of Eustasia wouldn’t be a kingdom without the territories of the great nobles.

It was an important task, essential for the survival of the royal family, to ensure that those territories were being properly managed… Specifically, to check for any signs of rebellion or tax evasion.

Well, our territory was… beginner-level for inspections.

Judith always prepared meticulous reports, with no inconsistencies, and we had always passed the “shadows’” inspections.

With an Acting Lord like her, it would take an idiot to mismanage the territory.

Of course, the head of the family had to make the final decisions, but with her and Ciel offering their well-considered opinions, I sometimes felt… a bit spoiled.

…This position was a heavy burden. It came with great responsibility.

I didn’t think just anyone could be the head of the Vanderwaals.

However, I had the foundation built by my predecessors and the support of capable individuals.

I wasn’t the only one who could sit in the seat of the family head.

“…Elder Sister, what’s the difference between an inspection and… an… in-spec-tion?”

Leticia’s hesitant question brought my attention back to her.

“They’re similar, but in this case, I’m patrolling my own territory, while His Highness is here to confirm that his vassal’s territory is being properly managed.”

“I see…”

Someday, Leticia would sit in the seat of the family head.

And Judith would support her then… hopefully.

And so would her chosen partner.

“…Lady Adelheid, while this is unofficial, I’d like to speak with you, as the lord, and with the Acting Lord. Would you be willing to receive me?”

“Certainly.”

I nodded curtly.

The ‘unofficial’ part was a bit concerning, but his inspection itself was unofficial.

If necessary, I could simply pretend he had never visited. It was unofficial, after all.

While I couldn’t physically harm the First Prince, the first in line to the throne, I could probably get away with a few threats.

Just then, Konrad wrapped his arms around himself and shivered.

“Your Highness? Are you alright?”

“It’s… nothing. It happens whenever I’m with your sister.”

Konrad answered my sister’s question with a smile, shaking his head as if to dispel something.

I felt like I had just been grossly insulted, but I couldn’t retaliate without proof.

If he weren’t the First Prince, I would have elbowed him in the ribs.

68: Berry Candy

I strolled through the capital of Vandergant with Leticia and Ciel as the sun began to set.

I had simply changed out of my formal jacket. Leticia, too, had covered the crested gold buttons on her blouse with a scarf. Ciel wore a simple black dress, having removed her apron, cap, and the ribbon from her neckline.

We left through the back entrance of the lord’s mansion and wandered aimlessly.

“Elder Sister, do you know where you’re going?”

“Of course. This is my territory. It’s like my own backyard.”

Since it had been a year, I wasn’t as familiar with the city as I boasted.

However, I could still get a general sense of direction from the district numbers on the signs.

I had been trying to impress my sister, but my sense of direction was only good enough to avoid getting lost in a well-marked city.

Leticia’s attention was caught by a row of stalls lining one of the streets.

“Look, look…”

“We’re having dinner at the mansion.”

I steered my sister, who seemed interested in the street food, away from the stalls.

“…Okay.”

Leticia obediently followed.

But then she stopped again, and I turned around.

“Leticia?”

“Oh, yes! Sorry, coming!”

I saw the stall that had caught her attention.

Berry candy. Small berries—the type varied depending on the season and the vendor, but these small red ones were probably raspberries—skewered and coated in hardened syrup.

Some vendors sold them in cups or jars; there were various styles.

It was a local specialty of the north, rarely seen in the capital. It must have been a novelty for Leticia, who had always lived in the capital, specifically the “back alley.”

“…Just a little, though.”

“Huh?”

I took my wallet out of my small bag and looked at my most loyal subordinate, who was standing beside me.

“Ciel, would you like one?”

“Yes… but should I…?”

I interrupted Ciel and addressed the vendor.

“Three, please.”

“Certainly! That will be six copper coins.”

The vendor, a woman with plain apron and her auburn hair tied back with an embroidered scarf, gave us a professional smile.

Two copper coins each. A standard price.

I discreetly checked the hygiene—passable.

This way, I could justify it as part of my inspection duties.

I placed the coins on the wooden plate on the counter, handed one skewer to Ciel, and offered another to Leticia.

“Oh… thank you.”

Ciel gave me a look, and I nodded, giving her permission to eat first. She took a bite and nodded in approval.

I also took a berry, rolled it on my tongue to dissolve the syrup coating, and then, as the tartness of the berry emerged, bit into it, savoring the sweet and sour mix of sugar and fruit.

Then I took a bite of the second one and popped the rest into my mouth.

Leticia, who had been watching me eat, hesitantly took a berry candy from her skewer and put it in her mouth, closing her eyes.

“How… is it?”

While I could tell she was savoring the taste, I couldn’t help but ask.

Since the berries were (probably) from Vandergant, and this was a stall in the capital city, I felt like my qualifications as lord were being evaluated.

Well, that was probably an exaggeration, and presumptuous of me.

“It’s… delicious, and I’m so happy… and it’s making me feel so… content… and my heart feels so full…”

Her reaction was exaggerated and… intense.

However, she smiled as she looked at the skewer, now missing one berry.

“They’re so sparkly, like jewels.”

The syrup coating on the berries gleamed in the fading sunlight.

But it was her smile that was sparkly, like a jewel.

“They’re sweet when you put them in your mouth, and then a little sour at the end. It makes you want to eat another one…”

As she spoke, she popped another one into her mouth.

And then she smiled contentedly.

I suddenly noticed a small crowd had gathered in front of the stall.

The vendor, beaming, was serving customers, and when she noticed my gaze, she smiled.

She was probably grateful for the free advertising.

I, on the other hand, was grateful for the opportunity to see my sister smile for the mere price of two copper coins.

Since my sister was so easily pleased, I wanted to shower her with gold coins, make her truly happy.

…However, she wasn’t a girl who would be happy just because the amount was a hundred, a thousand, or even ten thousand times greater.

What would make her happy?

How could I make her happy?

…Perhaps I should start by… not being mean? The relatively sensible and kind part of me suggested.

I promptly locked that thought away in the deepest recesses of my mind. As if that were possible.

It was such a precious, fleeting moment, being able to see Leticia’s smile while she ate…

But as long as it was in her mouth, the sugar coating would melt, and the sweet and sour taste of the berry would disappear.

I crushed the seeds between my teeth and swallowed.

I tossed the skewer into the stall’s trash can.

In Vandergant, stalls that produced such waste were required to have trash cans, and littering was punishable by a fine.

Such measures helped maintain the beauty of the city—at the cost of some freedom.

“Let’s go.”

“Okay.”

My sister naturally fell into step beside me.

I glanced at Ciel, who, like a proper attendant, remained a few steps behind.

The city was quietly sinking into darkness. The outlines of the brick walls and trees blurred… and combined with the evening chill, a slight sadness, a hint of melancholy and unease settled over me, blurring my sense of reality.

Then, lights flickered on in the windows of the houses, and color returned to the world.

With dinner time approaching, smoke curled from chimneys, and the occasional aroma of roasted meat or stew wafted through the air.

The capital city of Vandergant was safe enough for a young woman to walk alone even after dark.

Even so, I wanted to return before it became completely dark.

Then, I heard a familiar voice.

“[Lady Leticia! I never expected to meet you here.]”

A bright, cheerful voice. A sunny smile, visible even in the twilight.

My sister murmured his name.

“Your Highness… Konrad…?”

So, fate had decided they would meet here.

Konrad von Eustasia, First Prince of the Kingdom of Eustasia.

One of the [Capture Targets] of [Moonlight Liberium], head over heels for my sister, and the ‘prince’ who was first in line to the throne and not on good terms with me, her older sister.

67: “Acting Lord”

The capital city of Vandergant, also called Vandergant, was a fortress city.

Long ago, Vandergant referred only to this city and its surrounding area; the Vanderwaals family didn’t possess the vast territory it controlled now.

It was a remnant of a time when small city-states dotted the land.

While the kind of wars that necessitated city walls hadn’t occurred in Eustasia for a hundred years, it remained a well-maintained, functioning fortress city, the administrative center of our territory.

Leticia gazed at the cityscape through the carriage window, fascinated by the unfamiliar sights.

The streets were narrower and more winding than in the capital, the buildings taller. While there were plans to relocate some facilities outside the city walls, they were still in the planning stages.

As a result, with the advancement of construction technology, buildings had been expanded upwards to create more space, leading some to derisively refer to the more convoluted districts as labyrinths.

Even so, the area around the central square was open, offering a view of the clear, deep blue summer sky.

The good weather had been a major factor in our smooth journey.

I was glad we had arrived before nightfall.

The lord’s mansion also faced the central square.

It was larger than our main residence, but that was because it wasn’t a private residence.

Two long banner flags bearing our family crest—the Vanderwaals gecko—hung on either side of the gate, proclaiming the identity of the lord.

The carriage slowly entered the mansion grounds.

“Welcome home, Lady Adelheid!” The guards, dressed in red formal attire, helmets on their heads and halberds in hand, greeted us as we stepped out of the carriage. Their greeting was warm.

I had been visiting every year since I was a child, so I knew most of them.

Lately, even the guards at the Royal Castle had been greeting me with a similar warmth.

“I’m home. …Some of you may have heard the rumors, but I’ve brought my sister with me this year.”

“I’m… Leticia… I’m still inexperienced, but please treat me kindly.”

It sounded like a bridal greeting.

The heartwarming atmosphere was… well, I supposed it was fine.

This was my territory. Vanderwaals territory—which meant, it was Leticia’s territory. It was good that the future lord was received warmly.

“If it pleases you, I’d like to hear more later. About the territory, about Elder Sister, and such.”

“Of course… if you don’t mind.”

The elderly captain of the guard, with a red plume on his helmet, nodded firmly.

Then, he looked at me.

“That’s… acceptable. —But go easy on the badmouthing.”

A ripple of laughter went through the guards.

They seemed to think it was a joke.

I was actually hoping they would tell her all about my bad reputation, but saying that would probably make them think I was joking even more.

“I’ll leave the horses, carriage, and luggage to you.”

“Certainly.”

I left the rest to the coachman and the stable hands at the mansion.

I entered the mansion, which I hadn’t seen in a year, with Ciel and Leticia.

In the drawing-room of the lord’s mansion—the grandest of the several reception rooms—we were greeted respectfully by an elderly woman.

“Welcome, Lady Adelheid. Everything is in order.”

“That’s good to hear. It’s been a while, Judith.”

Judith, her white hair tied back and wearing a simple, elegant purple dress, was the Acting Lord.

“It’s a pleasure to see you. …And is this… Lady Leticia?”

Her gaze shifted to my sister, who was standing behind me.

“Yes. You recognized her?”

“Of course. …She has the Vanderwaals blood.”

A smile spread across Judith’s face, crinkling the laugh lines around her eyes.

“…Is that so?”

“Yes, Lady Leticia. ――I am Judith, Acting Lord of Vandergant. I have served the Vanderwaals family since the previous generation.”

One of the ‘assets’ I had inherited.

An important cog in the intricate, cold machinery of the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals.”

She had been the Acting Lord of Vandergant since I was a child.

The fact that she, after Ciel, recognized Leticia as a Vanderwaals relative warmed my heart.

I turned to my sister, and our eyes met.

She smiled faintly, and I reflexively smiled back—then quickly turned my gaze back to Judith.

Why was I smiling? Idiot.

Even though Judith wasn’t even mentioned in [Moonlight Liberium] and wasn’t involved in any [Events], I was letting my guard down too much.

We were offered seats on a leather sofa, and Leticia and I sat down side by side. Ciel remained standing, positioned slightly behind us.

Judith sat down slowly opposite us, across the heavy wooden coffee table.

I composed myself and addressed her as the lord.

“—Anything unusual to report?”

“His Royal Highness, the First Prince, is here.”

“Prince… Konrad… is here?”

I knew that.

That was how it was in [Moonlight Liberium].

“It seems to be an inspection. Unofficial, but a messenger was sent in advance to prevent any… incidents.”

“I see.”

I wondered if it was appropriate to announce an unofficial inspection… but judging by the personnel involved, it wasn’t a serious matter.

Our family hadn’t done anything to harm the kingdom. While the royal family also had their “shadows,” their scale was insignificant compared to ours.

I could leave matters outside the [Events] to her without any problems.

“We’ve received a request from the Royal Medical Corps to visit the herb garden. I granted permission within my authority.”

“That’s fine. I approve.”

The Vanderwaals were arguably the most knowledgeable family, the most knowledgeable organization, about poisons on the continent.

While we had been more discreet recently, we had a vast repertoire of poisons, from assassination poisons to sleeping draughts and truth serums… We were users, victims, attackers, and defenders.

Hence the nickname, “Coldhearted Vanderwaals.”

However, as I had demonstrated with Leticia, sleeping draughts could also be used as sedatives. Anesthetics used in surgery were also a type of poison—indeed, the line between poison and medicine was thin.

While we didn’t officially sell poisons, antidotes—cures—were valuable commodities.

When it came to the price of life, most sums seemed small.

More simply, mild remedies, like herbal medicines, were also our specialty.

Herbal candies, herbal teas, herbal liqueurs… our years of experience had yielded a variety of safe and effective remedies that enriched lives.

We also supplied various medicines and ingredients to the Royal Medical Corps; we had close ties with them.

“The joint training exercise between the Eustasia Knights and the Vandergant Territorial Army is scheduled as planned.”

“Yes. I will be attending.”

I was the head of the Vanderwaals family, the lord of Vandergant.

I held ultimate authority over both administrative and military matters.

However, just as I usually left administrative matters to Judith, the Acting Lord, the territorial army also had an Acting Commander, so it wasn’t strictly necessary for the lord to attend.

Even so, my father had always attended the annual exercises.

And this year, it was a large-scale joint exercise. I couldn’t miss it.

The Eustasia Knights held joint training exercises with the territorial armies of other territories on a rotating basis every year.

Of course, the primary purpose was to strengthen cooperation in case of emergencies… but it was also a way to keep the great nobles in check.

Officially, the Kingdom of Eustasia was a unified nation. However, in reality, the nobles who ruled each territory held considerable power, especially the ducal families.

Well, there were no fools currently considering rebellion, since remaining part of the kingdom was more beneficial.

Besides, this country was founded by our ancestors. It was the country I was born and raised in.

…I was… attached to it.

A unified Eustasia benefited the most people.

The territorial inspection. The visit to the herb garden. The joint training exercise.

Each one was a minor, annual… ‘event.’

But this year, they were [Events] that could influence the future of this country.

Prince Konrad, Chief Physician Louis, and Knight Commander Felix, all conveniently gathered in one place—as if guided by fate.

I glanced at Leticia.

…Who would my sister—the [Protagonist]—choose from the three [Capture Targets]?

I pushed aside my curiosity about my sister’s love life and turned my attention back to Judith.

I was the current head of the Vanderwaals family.

“For now, let’s hear the reports for the period I’ve been away. …Leticia, why don’t you go explore the town?”

Prince Konrad and Leticia were supposed to meet in town.

I wasn’t sure if she would definitely meet the other two, aside from Knight Commander Felix, during this event. While I didn’t quite understand her feelings for Konrad, if fate was on our side, they would meet.

But then Judith interjected.

“There are no urgent reports. Since this is Lady Leticia’s first time in Vandergant, perhaps you should show her around, Lady Adelheid?”

She had a point.

“There’s no need for such formalities…”

However, there was no scenario where the protagonist and the villainous sister strolled through town together… I was about to refuse with a sarcastic laugh.

But then…

“I would be happy to accompany you, Elder Sister.”

Leticia’s shy smile was too adorable.

“…We’ll just take a short walk. We’ll be back before nightfall.”

“Okay!”

This was to give her an opportunity to meet Konrad.

It was according to the scenario, within the performer’s discretion. No problem.

I told myself that, justifying my weakness.

“It’s a good opportunity for you to see the territory firsthand after such a long time. —Ciel.”

“Yes, Judith.”

Ciel bowed respectfully.

Judith was one of her teachers.

While they were close, they were currently speaking as the Acting Lord and the assistant head of the family.

“You will accompany them. I entrust Lady Adelheid and Lady Leticia to your care.”

“Yes. You can count on me.”

Ciel bowed impeccably, hands clasped before her, and Judith smiled and nodded in satisfaction.

Judith had once boasted, when Ciel wasn’t around, that Ciel was the most promising student she had ever taught.

It was the same smile she had worn then.

While they usually interacted professionally, she was clearly fond of her protégé.

66: Vanderwaals Territory, Vandergant

Our carriage traveled across the land of Eustasia, along a well-trodden road, though not paved with cobblestones, compacted by carriages, horses, and human feet.

We spent two nights at roadside inns along the way. The six guards and coachmen split into three pairs, each sharing a double room, while Leticia, Ciel, and I shared a triple room.

Since there were separate beds, sharing a room wasn’t a problem. The inns were used by nobles, so the rooms were reasonably spacious.

While I wanted to cut costs, there were some expenses you couldn’t skimp on.

Thick walls and doors were essential in emergencies, and proper locks on the doors and windows, along with hired guards on the premises, allowed for a peaceful night’s sleep.

While not yet in my own territory, this was a regular inn, contracted with and supervised by the Vanderwaals.

Its reputation for service and safety made it popular with nobles and wealthy merchants, and it was one of our family’s sources of income.

Even so, perhaps because we were traveling, I couldn’t sleep soundly.

I felt like a small animal, constantly on edge, wary of something lurking in the shadows.

The family name I had inherited was the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals.”

We weren’t a beloved family.

A family needed, tolerated… resented, and even hated.

While my sister was a sound sleeper, I, her older sister, wasn’t.

Long ago, when I was a child, unaware of human malice, sleeping with my mother and Ciel, I hadn’t worried about my light sleep.

But after growing up, I couldn’t allow myself to be so dependent on Ciel.

Only when I was utterly exhausted could I sleep soundly.

…Ah, come to think of it, I had slept well at the ranch inn, holding Leticia close.

Would I ever experience such peaceful sleep again?

While I had been the cause of eternal sleep for others, I hadn’t experienced it myself. I didn’t know if I would find peace after my beheading, or if some eternal torment awaited me.

We were almost at our destination.

I turned to Leticia, sitting next to me as always.

“—Leticia, you’ve done your research, haven’t you? Tell me about the Vanderwaals’ largest territory, the one we’re heading to.”

“Yes, Elder Sister.”

My sister nodded, her expression serious.

“—Vandergant, a Vanderwaals territory. Centered around the capital city of the same name, it is the largest of the Vanderwaals territories, both in area and revenue, including the areas surrounding the royal capital and some smaller, scattered exclaves.”

Leticia spoke slowly, as if recalling the information, but her words flowed smoothly.

“Located in the northern part of the Kingdom of Eustasia, it comprises about one-tenth of the kingdom’s total land area. It includes mountainous and forested regions and borders several other countries. However, due to the steep terrain of the Berghorn mountain range, which also extends into other territories, there is no interaction with neighboring territories, except for the former Principality of Ruins.”

Geographical factors determined almost everything about a territory.

While advantageous for defense, it was a land with little incentive for invasion.

The Vanderwaals, originating from this land, needed weapons that didn’t rely on fertile soil. One such weapon was the poisonous—medicinal—herbs that thrived in the barren lands.

“The climate is cold. The main industries are dairy farming, livestock farming, and lumber. Agriculture is also relatively prosperous.”

Good.

My sister had done her homework.

Thanks to advancements in agricultural technology, the land wasn’t as barren as it once was.

“I hear the meat, especially lamb and pork, is delicious, and they also have an abundance of game, like deer and boar. Dairy products are cheaper than in the areas around the royal capital, and the cheese, in particular, is a popular local specialty, even in other territories and countries. I’d love to try it.”

…Hmm?

It seemed my sister’s research had… a certain… culinary bias.

While she wasn’t wrong…

What exactly had she been researching?

“…What kind of books did you read?”

“I mostly asked the servants at the mansion and the Royal Castle.”

…Firsthand information.

I had told her to do her research, so I assumed she had used the library at the mansion.

Her ability to gather information from a wide range of sources, her approachable nature… as expected of the [Protagonist] of [Moonlight Liberium].

“I didn’t know our kitchen used ingredients from Vandergant.”

Well, since it was our own territory, we had some ingredients ‘directly delivered’ along with the regular shipments to the capital.

“I hear they’ve been focusing on berries recently. They’re made into jam for transport, but the flavor changes slightly when they’re barreled. Bottled berries maintain their quality, but they require more care during transport, so they’re more expensive.”

Indeed, berries were a new product for Vandergant, and we were focusing on both gathering and cultivating them.

Since it was a recent development, it wouldn’t be in any books.

And the information she had gathered was surprisingly detailed.

“They eat them fresh locally, and even the jam is cheaper there!”

She seemed to have a personal interest as well.

“…That’s… sufficient. You pass.”

While her enthusiasm seemed to be focused on food, well, food was important.

With starvation no longer a major concern, people were starting to pursue flavor and added value.

Before the founding of Eustasia, when the continent was ravaged by war, cooking was considered a nobleman’s hobby.

While it wasn’t haute cuisine, cooking, along with ingredients, had evolved even among commoners.

Our territory wasn’t rich in mineral resources.

Perhaps there were deposits hidden within the steep, cold Berghorn mountains, but currently, no country had the technology to locate mineral veins beneath the snow-covered ground and mine them profitably in such harsh conditions.

We had no access to the sea, no ports… in the words of some, it was a ‘remote, rural backwater.’

Even so, our territory was one of Eustasia’s breadbaskets and the Vanderwaals’ largest source of income.

The tireless efforts of our predecessors, and, above all, peace, had allowed the region to prosper.

The guarantee that settlements wouldn’t be burned to the ground. Compensation for—and the thorough eradication of—banditry.

Demonstrating both profit and force, the fundamental principle of aristocratic rule.

Considering the many unstable regions on the continent, the stability of our territory was a blessing.

Leticia would inherit all of this.

The previous lords, including my father. And me, the current lord. My sister carried the Vanderwaals blood.

She had been officially recognized as the heir by the royal family, and she would succeed me upon my death.

The prosperity of the territory had been my duty.

But knowing that I had something to leave to my sister made all the duties I had fulfilled, all the loyalty I had sworn, feel meaningful.

“Come to think of it, I used to pick berries in the ‘back alley.’”

Leticia said casually, as if the thought had just occurred to her.

“There was a shop that bought them, so we’d go into the forest and pick them. We’d sell the good ones and eat the damaged ones ourselves… When we were hungry, we were very picky.”

Ciel and I couldn’t help but chuckle.

However…

“…In the areas around the royal capital, you need a permit to enter the forest and pick berries.”

Leticia froze, her smile unwavering.

“…Forget about that!”

She said cheerfully, still smiling.

So, it was unauthorized.

It seemed my sister had a minor criminal record, but I would ignore it.

Besides, the shops that knowingly bought those berries at low prices were also at fault.

――Small injustices, preying on the vulnerable, that wouldn’t even be discussed in the royal court.

Those small injustices, accumulating over time, created places like the “back alley”… and continued to plague its residents.

“Oh! A Vanderwaals flag!”

Leticia abruptly changed the subject.

I followed her gaze out the window and saw rectangular flags hanging at regular intervals along the road.

A yellow gecko emblem on a blue background.

Similar flags hung at the checkpoints on the borders of our territory.

Here, it meant—we were approaching the capital city of Vandergant.

“We’ll be arriving at the capital soon. You remember the main inspection sites, don’t you?”

“Yes! The city, the herb garden, and the Vandergant territorial army training grounds!”

Leticia counted them off on her fingers.

“—Good.”

All of them were [Event Trigger Locations] in [Moonlight Liberium].

Which event would be triggered depended on which location she chose.

However, since it wasn’t clear which of the three Capture Targets Leticia favored, I decided to visit all of them.

I would leave it to fate—and Leticia—to decide how the [Events] would unfold.

65: The Carriage Ride

I wavered until the last minute about who to bring on the inspection trip.

The official scenario confirmed that the protagonist, Leticia, the three male Capture Targets, and I would participate.

Since the men would be there for their own reasons, I thought that as long as Leticia and I went, I could leave the rest to fate.

Of course, considering the serious work involved in the inspection, Ciel was indispensable.

If we used a four-person carriage, we could take one more person… but, as Leticia had said, it was a trip, even if it was for business.

It would be better to have only familiar faces in the main carriage, so I decided to limit it to those three, plus the coachman. A lighter carriage would also be less of a burden on the horses.

Since the head of the ducal family and the first in line to inherit the title were traveling together, we would also have an escort carriage.

That one was a covered wagon, with five people, including the driver.

While it wasn’t a substantial force against a serious attack on the ducal family, the “shadows” patrolled the roads, and there were also official highway patrols.

More importantly, I had been gathering intelligence. It would be difficult to mobilize such a force undetected.

While it was a habit to consider the possibility of an attack, I hadn’t heard of any such plans, or even rumors of bandits.

While I couldn’t completely trust fate’s scenario, there were no such [Events].

It was easy to forget, since my execution was predetermined.

[Moonlight Liberium] was a romance simulation game… a love story.

While I should always be mindful of such concerns, my immediate priority was—

“…Elder Sister, is it okay if I sit next to you?”

—How to respond to my sister’s adorable request.

The moment I heard her words, the jockeys in my mind took off.

“Of course. Come sit next to Big Sister,” surged ahead at top speed.

“Sit in front. I want to see your face,” started late but caught up quickly.

“Come sit on Big Sister’s lap,” was a dark horse, conserving energy.

My weak heart momentarily rooted for the dark horse.

As we boarded the carriage, I looked down at my sister and said curtly—or at least, I tried to make it sound curt—

“…Do as you wish.”

I had a vision of the jockeys in my mind falling off their horses simultaneously.

Since my sister wanted to sit next to me, I supposed it had the same meaning as the first option, “Of course. Come sit next to Big Sister.”

A reasonable outcome, I suppose.

“Okay!”

Leticia eagerly came to my side and sat down neatly.

She seemed close, but I didn’t have any siblings, so I wasn’t sure.

Was this normal?

At least, those around us—Ciel, the coachman, the butler seeing us off, and the servants remaining at the mansion—didn’t seem to find Leticia’s behavior unusual.

“I leave the mansion in your care.”

“Yes. You can count on me.”

The silver-haired butler smiled, the wrinkles on his face deepening, and bowed.

“…Enjoy yourselves. As long as everything is in order when you return, I won’t complain.”

The male servants and maids lined up behind the butler bowed in unison.

As expected of the ducal family’s servants.

Ciel boarded the carriage and closed the door.

“Let’s go.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

The coachman replied curtly, and the carriage started moving.

A moment later, cheers erupted behind us.

I could hear their cries of joy: “Alright!” “She gets it!” “Yay!” “Time to relax!” “Long live Vanderwaals! Long live summer vacation!”

This wasn’t a summer vacation.

Such behavior was unbecoming of the ducal family’s servants.

“Ahaha…”

Leticia, who had also apparently heard them, chuckled wryly.

Ciel sighed softly.

“We’ll have to reprimand them when we return.”

“I’m sure the butler will take care of it.”

The inspection was an annual event. I had accompanied my father, and as I grew older, I gradually learned about managing the territory.

When my mother was alive, we sometimes went together, and sometimes, I visited her separately during the inspection, since the air was cleaner there than in the capital, and it was a good place for her to recuperate.

I had visited the territory countless times—this would be my last.

However, it was the first time I was going with my sister.

I suppressed my excitement.

This [Inspection Event] was more important for establishing her as a noble than for romance.

Leticia had to learn.

Not just superficial manners and knowledge, but the spirit of a noble.

How this country worked.

Not just the limited world of the “back alley” corner, the Vanderwaals mansion, or the Royal Castle…

Well, the fact that we kept encountering the same three men made it a little less exciting, but perhaps the novelty came from meeting them in different locations.

I, the villainous sister, was a stage prop.

My only job was to accompany my sister to the territory and make the necessary arrangements for the inspection.

So, there were no [Individual Events] between my sister and me.

My sister, sitting next to me, covered her mouth with her hand and stifled a yawn.

While I inwardly thought, Even her yawns are cute, I maintained a neutral expression. Perhaps misinterpreting my gaze, Leticia blushed.

“S-sorry. I was so excited, I couldn’t sleep…”

Saying such things so casually… it would be misunderstood, I thought with an inward sigh.

If the Capture Targets saw her like this, they would fall head over heels in love.

Or rather, they probably already had.

After all, my sister was adorable.

“Get some sleep. It’s a long journey.”

“O-okay… excuse me then.”

Excuse me?

Just as I was about to ask what she meant, I felt a weight on my shoulder.

Leticia leaned against me, her body relaxing as she closed her eyes.

It was the same position as when she had fallen asleep on the bench, with me as her support.

This was… beyond informal!

I inwardly screamed, and tried to say something, but the words wouldn’t come out.

Then, her body relaxed completely.

…My sister was a sound sleeper.

“…How nostalgic, Lady Adelheid,” Ciel murmured after a while.

“Yes… it is.”

――I, too, used to get sleepy during carriage rides and would lean on Ciel like this.

So, she remembered.

Now, it was my turn.

There were no [Official Events] between my sister and me.

But this, too, would become a small, precious memory of our journey.

――But this wasn’t very villainous sister-like, was it?

I was torn between being a good older sister and being a proper villainous sister.

This time, I prioritized my sister’s sleep.

…The protagonist’s well-being took precedence over everything.

Probably.