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

28: “Goodnight”

The first day of our trip to the countryside ranch for riding lessons ended without incident.

Leticia had progressed enough to ride a horse on her own, and the [Event] with Knight Commander Felix had been triggered… though I felt like it went in a slightly different direction.

After dinner, we each took a bath… and night fell.

Several lamps cast a soft glow around the room.

Leticia and I faced each other in a tense silence.

“There’s only one bed… you know what that means, right, Elder Sister?”

“I don’t.”

This was actually the first time I had seen my sister in her nightclothes.

It was a common style in Eustasia, and I had one of the same design, but thanks mainly to our differing chest sizes, we didn’t exactly look like we were wearing matching outfits.

The slight flush on her skin from the bath, combined with the adorableness of her smile directed at me… any gentleman would turn into a beast at the sight.

I held strong.

“Elder Sister, let’s sleep together!”

“…………”

I glanced at the canopy bed.

It was about the same size as the one in my room.

――Since it was a double room, there was no problem with Leticia and me sharing the bed.

There were even two pillows, thoughtfully provided.

A fleeting memory surfaced of Ciel sleeping beside me when I was very young…

Ciel, seven years my senior, was still a young girl herself then, with no experience in childcare.

Even so, she had diligently fulfilled her role as governess and tutor, and I was eternally grateful to her.

Now that she had grown and I had become the head of the family, she always prioritized my needs and was a model maid.

――And, like a proper maid, she had said, “Please call if you need anything,” and retired to the adjacent servants’ quarters.

I couldn’t help but notice the bellpull at the edge of my vision.

…I was weak.

What was I going to say?

――“My sister is so cute that I want to hug her and sleep with her, even if it means messing with fate. Please make it happen somehow”?

…I would be looked at with pity. In every sense of the word.

That was worse than being beheaded.

How could I even begin to explain [Moonlight Liberium]?

…Actually, it would be simple. I just had to make a prediction or two about the future.

I believed—I had to believe—that Ciel would believe me then.

She would try to change fate.

…It would be a lie to say I hadn’t considered it myself.

Especially now that I sensed my sister seemed to harbor unrealistic expectations about what it meant to be ‘sisters.’

I wondered if we could change fate and end the story of [Moonlight Liberium] as close sisters.

But I had only ever walked the path laid out for me.

The obstacles in my way had always been surmountable.

I had been raised as the head of the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals” and lived as a tool to wield its power—that was the only life I knew.

What could I do?

The story was still progressing according to the script.

I was good at that.

Doing what was expected, what was desired, what was ‘right.’

That was how I was raised, and how I had lived.

And that was how I would continue to live.

――The only difference was that my family name had been replaced by fate as the compass guiding my life.

My sister didn’t need me.

I looked at the sofa in the room.

It was upholstered in fabric, with plush cushions, and it was large… I supposed it was acceptable for my sister to sleep on.

Having my sister sleep on the sofa while there was plenty of room in the bed… wouldn’t that be befitting a mean half-sister?

I was afraid that this ‘meanness,’ which wasn’t in the [Official Event], might interfere with fate, but it was obvious which was more ‘villainous sister-like’: sleeping with her as she wished, or making her sleep on the sofa.

Resigned, I declared firmly.

“…You will sleep on the sofa.”

“But…”

My sister looked stunned.

“—That is an order from the head of the family.”

I inwardly scoffed at myself.

The Vanderwaals’ authority had sunk low.

I had to resort to such measures to deny my sister’s small request.

Leticia, though looking downcast, obeyed my command.

“…Yes.”

I pulled a blanket from the bed and tossed it to her.

“Here.”

“Huh?”

As she reflexively caught it, I threw her a pillow as well.

“Oof.”

Perhaps I had thrown it a bit too hard, thinking it was light, as it hit her squarely in the face.

Leticia caught the falling pillow with her outstretched arms.

Her face was slightly flushed, perhaps from the impact.

“…Elder Sister, what’s this for?”

“I won’t have you catching a cold.”

“Oh, okay…”

My sister nodded.

“Add more wood to the fireplace.”

“Yes…”

My sister clutched the pillow tightly.

…Ah, my sister was so earnest.

A good girl, resilient even against the meanness of being needlessly trampled on, like a delicate flower blooming by the roadside.

Such a girl deserved happiness.

After turning off all the lamps and getting into bed, my sister, having added wood to the fireplace as instructed, spoke.

“Elder Sister.”

…I gritted my teeth.

Even a younger sister in a vulnerable position had the right to complain or express resentment.

And I had the obligation to accept it.

“Goodnight.”

And yet.

All that came out of my sister’s mouth, even at this point, was such a trivial greeting.

The large bed felt unusually cold.

The softness of the pillow, the smoothness of the sheets, the warmth of the blanket, all befitting a noble’s accommodations, were nothing compared to Leticia’s “goodnight.”

And the realization of how petty and despicable I was, expecting complaints or resentment from such a sister, brought tears to my eyes.

I pressed my face into the pillow and gritted my teeth.

The tears didn’t flow any further, but the turbulent feelings swirling within me didn’t disappear. They couldn’t.

I couldn’t erase them. I shouldn’t.

As I wrestled with these raw emotions… I felt like I had to say something to my sister.

Yes. At the very least… I should say goodnight.

No matter how ‘strained our relationship.’

Leticia and I were sisters, connected by blood.

I sat up.

“Leticia?”

There was no answer.

I waited, feeling the courage I had mustered dwindle.

…I heard the sound of soft breathing.

My sister, curled up on the sofa near the fireplace, wrapped in a blanket, was sleeping peacefully, a happy expression on her face.

…She was a sound sleeper.

No longer remembering what I had intended to say, I lay back down, as if collapsing.

As I closed my eyes, sounds reached my ears.

The crackling of the burning wood, mixed with a soft, rustling sound.

It seemed to have started raining.

I should go to sleep.

Depending on the condition of the riding grounds, tomorrow’s lesson might be canceled.

Come to think of it, Ciel had once trained me to ride on muddy roads.

Although it wasn’t at this ranch, I remember both the horse and I getting covered in mud. Afterward, we washed the horse and then bathed together, Ciel helping me clean up.

It was a distant memory.

One of the jewels within my heart that wouldn’t fade even if I were to become dew on the guillotine.

And I replayed the memories of today, still vivid in my mind.

Leticia in her riding outfit. Riding together. My sister in my arms. Leading the horse by the reins. The way she smiled at me when our eyes met on horseback. Her angry expression in front of Felix. Learning a little about my sister’s past.

Not everything was enjoyable, but… it was fun.

I didn’t know how my sister felt, though.

…What kind of memories would today hold for Leticia?

Listening to the strengthening rain, I fell asleep in the bed, alone.

27: My Treasure

I could replay his words to my sister, word for word, in my head.

No, that’s not right. They’re in the [Text Log].

His previous line, “[Leticia, would you like me to teach you how to ride properly?]” was the ‘other option.’

The continuation of choosing [2. “Yes, I like horses too.”] in the first choice.

The option to become closer to Knight Commander Felix.

…Ah, I see.

This world was progressing according to fate’s script.

My sister had chosen—regardless of her true intentions—the option to become closer to him.

That’s why he said those words.

No matter how different the journey, he would say the lines that led to the next choice.

My sister had two options.

The first was [1. “No, thank you.”].

The second was [2. “Please teach me how to ride.”].

If she chose the second option, they would become closer.

After that, she just had to keep choosing the Knight Commander in the subsequent choices.

…Objectively, he was a good catch.

He was the Knight Commander of the Kingdom of Eustasia, the strongest nation on the continent.

While his apparent inexperience with women was a concern, this… well, let’s say wild, or perhaps just rough-around-the-edges, man would cherish the one he loved.

I knew that.

I had seen it—the [Event] where my sister, originally a commoner like him, but now with a noble’s perspective, stood beside him, the symbol of military might in this country.

No matter which of the three [Capture Targets] my sister chose, this country would become better than it was now.

However, I wouldn’t see that new Eustasia. That was all.

Because I was the villainous sister.

Just a nuisance, destined to be beheaded regardless of who my sister chose.

That was how it was supposed to be.

So, my sister’s lines were also predetermined.

She had more options than I did, but they were still limited.

“[No, thank you.]”

My sister firmly refused the Knight Commander’s offer with the [Official Line].

――I didn’t know if it was decided by this single choice.

However, for now, the prince was in the lead.

And there was still a chance for the ‘third’ Capture Target, whom my sister hadn’t met yet.

“…Besides.”

Besides?

If she refused, the event would end here. The rest would be narration, and the day—the horseback riding event—would end.

That was how it was supposed to go.

As I waited with bated breath for her next words, my sister turned to me.

“…Elder Sister and Ciel are teaching me.”

She smiled brightly, and I was flustered.

Ciel aside, why bring up my name?

All I had done today was ride with her, following Ciel’s instructions, until she got used to it, and lead the horse by the reins.

“Is that so? Teach her well, Adelheid.”

“…Yes, our Ciel is an excellent teacher. Leave it to her; there won’t be any problems.”

Ciel bowed silently when I looked at her.

My sister seemed somewhat dissatisfied.

“—Leticia.”

Knight Commander Felix called my sister’s name.

“Yes, what is it, Sir Felix?”

“[Leticia, I like you. If you ever need the power of the Eustasia Knights—no, my power—don’t hesitate to ask. If you call, I will be your strength.]”

…Why did he say that?

That was supposed to be the concluding line of the riding lesson—the ‘Knight Commander [Event].’

Was it [Favorability]?

――Did his favorability towards my sister increase as much as completing the original event, just from this conversation that wasn’t in the original scenario?

…It was possible.

My sister was adorable, after all.

It wouldn’t be surprising if this rough-around-the-edges, arrogant knight commander fell for her after just a brief conversation.

I hadn’t expected him to say such a line to a noble lady, with a straight face, on the day they met.

I had suspected that, tired of being fawned over, he had become a misogynist… or perhaps even preferred men.

Taking the young ladies who pursued him on long rides was probably his way of rejecting them.

If they could keep up, he might have actually started dating them.

He lacked consideration for a maiden’s heart, but the young ladies themselves didn’t seem to consider a man’s feelings either, so it was probably a case of tit for tat.

――In the riding lesson event with the Knight Commander and Leticia that didn’t happen, they were supposed to ride together, ostensibly for her to get used to horses.

I, as the head of the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals,” had endured with all my might, but could this inexperienced Knight Commander withstand the situation of having such a beautiful girl in his arms, relying on him and looking up at him?

While my sister had skipped the [Event] with him this time, her wonderful qualities—including her unexpected ones—must have made an impression.

It was only natural that he would say such a line.

The uncertainty of Leticia’s favorability towards him was what made me anxious.

Even though it was still early in the game… things were progressing at a rather rapid pace, so I couldn’t let my guard down.

The in-game time was a little over a year. However, the number of [Events] that occurred during that time was limited.

It was problematic that it was now harder to predict how the story would unfold, since favorability could be earned outside the original scenarios, as in this case.

――As long as Leticia was happy, that was all that mattered.

I reaffirmed my purpose, engraving it in my heart.

I would eliminate any and all obstacles.

I wouldn’t let anyone change the storyline that led to my sister’s happiness.

Not even myself.

Don’t hesitate. Don’t waver. Don’t falter.

If I strayed from the path, what would happen to my sister?

My life was as the head of the Vanderwaals.

This was my first and last chance to follow my own will without straying from the path laid out for the head of the family.

I wouldn’t let it slip away.

Opportunities to have fate as an ‘ally’ were rare.

Though I was concerned that fate’s support was weak and that the unseen playwright who wrote the scenario was a bit… incompetent.

As an older sister who loved her younger sister, I aimed for the guillotine.

I would fulfill my role as the villainous sister.

My sister smiled and brushed off the Knight Commander’s “I’ll always be your strength” declaration, a line that would make any young lady swoon.

“Yes, if I ever need your help, Sir Felix, I’ll be sure to ask.”

“Of course.”

Felix smiled cheerfully.

I didn’t know he could smile like that.

…Come to think of it, Prince Konrad had also shown expressions I had never seen before.

Well, I suppose there were expressions one only showed to loved ones or romantic partners.

But I didn’t know he was capable of such smiles.

…Come to think of it, Leticia too—

“Elder Sister! Thank you for today!”

Leticia said, wrapping her arm around mine as if clinging to me.

She was so close.

Flustered, I was captivated by her smile.

…Come to think of it, I often saw Leticia smile.

In the story of [Moonlight Liberium], she smiled at her lover.

That smile, depicted in the event still, was something I longed for.

I wanted to see Leticia smile.

But I thought that I, the villainous sister, wouldn’t be able to see my sister’s smile… and yet.

Even now, yes.

Her lips curved into a melting smile, and she gazed at me with her blue eyes, the same shade as mine.

“Will you teach me again tomorrow?”

A carefree smile, like the one she would give to a close lover.

She was giving me the smile she would give to ‘family.’

A warm, fuzzy feeling filled my chest.

I had a sister.

We wore matching riding outfits, albeit in different colors—navy blue and vibrant red—and took riding lessons together… I had a sister.

At least for now… I could have this.

I wanted my sister to find happiness as soon as possible.

And yet, I was looking forward to the journey with Leticia.

But I was aiming for the guillotine.

These feelings only brought pain.

If she simply came to hate me, that would be the end of it.

――I wouldn’t lose.

I was Adelheid von Vanderwaals.

The head of the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals,” the single wall lizard watching over the darkness of this country.

I would walk my path.

To the inevitable end. To be beheaded on the guillotine.

I wasn’t afraid of that.

The only thing I feared was Leticia’s unhappiness.

My adorable sister.

My treasure.

I wouldn’t let anyone tarnish it.

I wouldn’t let anyone change fate.

I took a deep breath.

I looked at my sister, clinging to my arm like a gecko, with as cold a gaze as I could muster.

“…Now that you can ride, I’ll be strict with you tomorrow.”

Leticia beamed.

“Yes! Please be strict with me!!”

My sister wasn’t reacting as I expected.

Felix chuckled wryly.

“…She really likes you.”

“…It’s a bother.”

26: Memories of the Slaughterhouse

The slaughterhouse, located beside the Altrein River, a little distance from the royal capital.

A processing facility for slaughtering livestock, obtaining meat and hides, and converting them into butchered meat and leather.

A facility that was sometimes treated as part of the “back alley” and sometimes as being ‘outside’ the royal capital.

The importance of facilities for processing livestock was high for the Kingdom of Eustasia, which relied on processed meat for its winter sustenance.

However, it was also regarded with distaste due to its odor and sanitary conditions.

Perhaps because of this, Knight Commander Felix frowned at my sister’s statement that she ‘worked at a slaughterhouse.’

His light brown eyes fixed on my sister’s blue eyes.

“A slaughterhouse… is not a place for a noble young lady… or even a woman… to work.”

“There’s no difference between men and women,” Leticia declared, her smile unwavering.

…While her smile was as adorable as ever, it simultaneously conveyed something unfathomable, sending a chill down my spine.

I had undergone training as the head of the family, so I wasn’t showing such emotions on my face… I was sure.

But conversely, it meant I was facing someone who required the demeanor of the head of the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals.”

I knew she wasn’t just an ordinary girl.

The protagonist of [Moonlight Liberium].

A ‘trump card’ who would navigate the coming calamity with her status as a noble from the “back alley” and her pure heart…

But even so, she should just be an ordinary girl.

She should just be a girl with no special abilities.

And yet, the strength in her words was something I was unfamiliar with.

“Wanting to eat today. That feeling has nothing to do with being a girl, or anything like that.”

“If it’s work, there’s plenty of other…”

“Is that how it is in the ‘front’?”

The term sounded familiar.

Just as we… and the residents themselves… called that area the “back alley,” those who lived there called other areas the “front.”

The “back alley” was an area officially designated as the ‘old town district’… and officially, there were no residents there.

It was merely a distinction on paper; in reality, there was no clear line drawn on the map.

Yet, I felt as though I could see the line drawn in people’s hearts.

“—The only stable work we could do in the ‘front,’ we who didn’t pay the poll tax, was odd jobs at the slaughterhouse and cleaning sewers.”

That was the reason the “back alley” didn’t disappear.

Convenient people who would do the jobs that most people avoided.

The capital would collapse without these facilities, but few people were willing to do the work.

Because there were those who would ‘willingly’ do them.

“…Leticia, you were…”

“Just doing odd jobs. Even at the slaughterhouse, there are specialists for butchering, and sharpening knives is a craftsman’s work. I’ve washed knives before, though.”

An untraceable past.

…Day labor at the slaughterhouse was not recorded. It wasn’t spoken of.

But perhaps, among the meat I ate on a daily basis, some had been processed on a day my sister had worked.

Perhaps my sister had even washed the knives that carved that meat.

“Since I’m a ‘girl,’ as Sir Felix says, and also, people were careful around kids our age, we mostly just washed buckets or cutting boards. It was easy work.”

…’Easy work.’

She said it lightly. Certainly, no special skills would be required.

However… conversely, because no special skills were required, it was physically demanding work.

Work that anyone could do, that no one wanted to do.

Those who didn’t—couldn’t—pay the poll tax, occupation tax, or farmland use tax had very few jobs available to them.

Those who were critical of the “back alley” called them tax-evading poor people.

Those same people likely ate processed meat and used the city’s water and sewage systems.

And when she said ‘kids our age’—how old was that?

How old were children from the “back alley” who were treated with care even there?

How old was my sister when she started such work?

“Besides, work at the slaughterhouse was popular because you got ‘souvenirs.’ The meat after work was delicious.”

…The gloomy feeling I had been experiencing, reflecting on the dark side of this country, lessened slightly.

“Everyone would gather driftwood by the river, grill it on an iron plate, or boil offal in a large pot… Ah, I feel nostalgic now. I want to eat it again.”

It was a warm, friendly anecdote, far from what one imagined when hearing the term “back alley.”

However, it made me want to give her something better to eat.

…Could I give her anything?

Anything that could surpass the taste of those memories?

Anything comparable to what she had earned herself…?

“They don’t eat much horse in the ‘front,’ apparently, so all the leftover meat and hides went to us. Sometimes it was tough and stringy, but everyone would laugh, saying it was good because it filled you up.”

She was resilient.

And… they laughed?

I couldn’t quite imagine there being laughter in such days.

“So, um… I feel bad saying this to a Knight Commander who likes horses, but I used to eat a lot of horse meat, and I really like it… it’s a taste of memories.”

Her memories were heavy.

“No, really… I’ve never eaten it… is it… good?”

Did the Knight Commander really need to ask?

“Yes, it’s delicious… But, I shouldn’t have said that to a member of the Knights, should I?”

Leticia looked at me apologetically.

I agreed, but since I had heard her story, I forgave her.

If the Knight Commander had said anything disapproving, I would have crushed him with the full might of the Vanderwaals.

I couldn’t entrust my sister to such a narrow-minded man.

――However, unexpectedly, he showed a surprising breadth of character.

“…You don’t hate horses themselves, then?”

“No. They’re cute.”

Being able to reconcile ‘delicious’ and ‘cute’ showed strength of heart.

She gently reached out to Lillie, who was standing next to her, and stroked her neck.

Horses sent to the slaughterhouse were farm horses, and I doubted military horses from the Knights or noble’s riding horses would ever end up there… but still.

“Do you like riding?”

“Yes. Today was my first time on a horse, but I really like it.”

Good.

I had worried about what I would do if I had instilled in my sister a dislike for riding.

“Today’s your first time… I see.”

He nodded.

The setting sun illuminated his faded blonde hair, making it look like a lion’s mane as he relaxed his expression and narrowed his eyes.

And, smiling, he continued.

“[Leticia, would you like me to teach you how to ride properly?]”

…We were back on the [Official Scenario].

25: Leticia’s Wrath

Felix von Ritter.

At twenty-six, he was four years older than me and the oldest among the capture targets.

There were those who said he was too young to lead the strongest knight order on the continent, but he was a young commander who took office with overwhelming support, especially from the knights.

He wasn’t just a figurehead, having real combat experience and military achievements from suppressing bandits and ‘mediating’ conflicts.

And now, he was clearly perplexed.

“Delicious…? You’ve eaten horse meat?”

The rumored ‘sister.’

She rarely appeared in public because I had decided it was too early to introduce her to society… the first in line to the title, recognized by the head of the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals.”

Knight Commander Felix and I had a somewhat strained relationship due to our differing positions, but it was a professional one. We were both adults, so we didn’t let personal feelings interfere.

Even though it wasn’t business now, he should have known that ignoring me and behaving awkwardly wouldn’t be beneficial.

Besides, he must have taken some interest in Leticia.

After all, my sister was a blooming beauty who would make even flowers blush.

However, my sister’s past was shrouded in mystery.

Investigating the past of someone who had lived in the slums of the royal capital—the area commonly known as the “back alley”—was no easy feat.

Leticia seemed to have eaten horse meat, which was not commonly consumed in Eustasia.

“Oh! I’ve never eaten a Knight Order’s horse… probably.”

“Probably?”

Felix looked confused.

His tanned face contorted, and he ran a hand through his faded blonde hair, scratching his head vigorously.

Even though he was a nobleman for one generation, granted the title for his military service, this was not behavior befitting a noble, especially in front of a young lady.

…However, the rumor was that this unpretentious side was what made him appealing.

“…You said your name was Leticia? Why would a noble young lady eat horse meat at a slaughterhouse?”

Felix questioned Leticia slowly, enunciating each word, his surprise evident.

Good, ask more.

“That was when I wasn’t a noble yet.”

She was from the “back alley.”

So, perhaps the slaughterhouse, located on the outskirts of the capital… bordering the “back alley,” had been a familiar place to her.

“…Ah, so Adelheid, who resented her half-sister, banished her to the ‘back alley’…”

“Take that back.”

Leticia retorted sharply.

That was the rumor circulating, I realized.

He wasn’t one for gossip, which meant that by the time it reached his ears, it had likely grown several tails.

“Resented your half-sister? —Elder Sister did?”

However, since I was trying my best to appear that way to the outside world, he didn’t need to pick up on that.

…But my sister focused on it.

She didn’t back down one step against the Knight Commander, who was much stronger and held a higher position than her.

Instead, she took a step forward, pressing closer to him across the fence.

“I’ve been in the ‘back alley’ since I was born. —And Elder Sister was the one who acknowledged me as a Vanderwaals relative. Not the other way around.”

In her adorable eyes, a fierce will blazed… but it was somehow still cute.

It was the same with Prince Konrad; her gaze lacked intensity.

Like the prince, the Knight Commander was judging “glaring” by my standards.

Unlike me, she was simply too naturally adorable.

Felix laughed, looking amused.

“Are you angry? You’re like a cute little kitten.”

There were men who suited this kind of remark and men who didn’t, and he was one of the former.

However, some women liked that kind of thing, and others didn’t, and I was one of the latter.

My sister also seemed to feel the same way, as she furrowed her brows.

While thinking how cute that expression was, I couldn’t find the right moment to stop her.

“—Take that back. What you said just now was a baseless, ridiculous rumor.”

I thought it was a rumor with solid roots and leaves.

However, my sister apparently disagreed.

“What if I don’t take it back?”

“Then I’ll be angry. —I am angry now.”

Angry?

…At such a ridiculous rumor?

It was close to the truth, you could say.

What kind of room she slept in.

What kind of words were usually said to her.

Thinking about that.

It was true that she said, “She acknowledged me as a Vanderwaals relative.”

It was true that she was picked up from the “back alley.”

It was true that she was made the first in line of succession.

But there was nothing that would make us close sisters.

Knight Commander Felix, though his expression was still somewhat amused, laughed as he faced his angry sister.

“Will you use the Vanderwaals’ power? Against me, the Knight Commander—”

“I’m talking about manners. I was taught manners by Elder Sister and my tutors.”

From the Vanderwaals’ perspective, it was acceptable to demand unreasonable things if you were in a higher position than the other party, to look down on them, to mock them… That was ‘normal,’ ‘expected,’ and ‘desired.’

It was truly lamentable that while I was educating my sister to be an elegant and gentle lady, her sister was like this.

As an adult who had learned to separate appearance from reality, my sister’s innocence and straightforwardness were blindingly strong, piercing my heart.

“――Was that ‘how’ you were taught? Is that ‘how’ a proud knight… the Knight Commander of the Eustasia Royal Knights… is supposed to behave?”

It seemed the remark hit home for him as well.

Being the Knight Commander was a powerful position.

Leading the renowned strongest knight order on the continent also granted corresponding privileges.

The noble title he held as a knight was outside the noble hierarchy.

However, as Knight Commander, his power was equal to that of a ducal family, the highest rank in the noble hierarchy. In times of war, his position could even surpass that.

Furthermore, he was usually surrounded by knights and soldiers from his own order… even if he got carried away and misbehaved a little, there were few who would reprimand him.

No one who would ‘speak up’ like that.

He dropped his playful demeanor and became serious.

It was his official face, his noble face, his face as a knight above all else.

And he even bowed his head slightly.

“…――I take it back. I was foolish to believe such a ridiculous rumor.”

My sister sighed in relief.

And she smiled at him.

“Okay. As long as you understand.”

Felix looked at me, standing behind my sister.

“…You’re quite loved. —You, the head of ‘that’ Vanderwaals.”

“It’s a bother.”

I snorted.

My sister visibly drooped.

I, on the other hand, would be happy to be a bother to my sister.

I wanted to defend her, but I couldn’t—I shouldn’t.

That was outside the performer’s discretion.

…But how do I proceed from here?

Perhaps I should give up on the Knight Commander.

I couldn’t envision a future where I could entrust my sister to this knight commander, who didn’t know how to treat a young lady and was raised in a male-only environment.

However, I had felt the same way about the prince.

I would trust in the script of fate, and most importantly, in Leticia’s cuteness, and entrust everything to her, observing the situation.

Knight Commander Felix seemed to want to say something.

“…So, what was the situation when you ate horse meat at a slaughterhouse? Can you tell me about it?”

Alright, the conversation was back on track.

Delve deeper.

“Oh, that.”

My sister nodded.

And, as if it were nothing, she said very casually.

“Because I used to work at a slaughterhouse.”

My initial reaction was to exchange glances with the Knight Commander.

This might be the first time I had reacted this way with him.

24. [Encounter with the Knight Commander]

As the sun began to set, I was growing impatient.

It was confirmed that the second [Capture Target] was here.

But… would he interact with Leticia? There were too many uncertain factors.

I knew him, but we were by no means close.

Unlike the encounter with the prince, which had a strict timing of ‘just before the audience with His Majesty,’ this time the timing was broader: ‘during riding practice.’

However, based on the detailed descriptions in the game, I predicted the time would be exactly around sunset.

Leticia waved from atop the white horse, Lillie.

“Elder Sister! Did you see? I rode by myself!”

…Did I miss it?!

――Because I missed my sister’s momentous achievement, my favorability towards the second [Capture Target] would decrease.

No, what mattered was Leticia’s favorability towards him, and his favorability towards Leticia, not anything involving me.

“I looked away for a moment… but you can ride by yourself now.”

I approached and took the lead rope from Ciel.

“Hehe… thanks to Ciel… and Elder Sister.”

My heart was pierced by my sister’s shy adorableness.

What a waste of a smile, directed at someone like me.

――In the corner of my eye, I saw a flash of silver.

My sister seemed to have seen the same thing and looked in that direction.

“What… is that?”

“――That’s the Eustasia Knights. They’ve been staying at the same guesthouse since yesterday for training,” Ciel, who had been watching from a distance, explained.

Leticia murmured.

“The Eustasia Knights…”

It was the cavalry. They were all mounted on horses, wearing their everyday armor, which protected key areas with plate armor, though not the full battle armor. There was no mistaking them.

Above all, the crest embroidered on their surcoats was a ‘helmet with a unicorn horn and visor.’

Bearing a part of the unicorn, which was also the crest of the Eustasia royal family and, by extension, the kingdom, it was a crest that only the Eustasia Knights were permitted to display.

They all had longswords at their hips, rested the butts of their lances in the saddle sockets, and carried the shafts on their shoulders.

They were likely returning from training.

They passed by silently on the other side of the wooden fence.

However, I could feel the knights glancing at us.

My sister was the most beautiful girl on the continent, so I, as her older sister, would try to be understanding of their desire to look at her.

And then, ‘he’ stopped his horse in front of us.

“――You others, return ahead.”

…A familiar voice. And a familiar face.

The one easily riding the large black horse, unbothered by its wildness, was a tall, well-built man.

Aside from the red plume added to the helmet crest on his surcoat, he was dressed the same as the other knights, but his physique was noticeably superior at a glance.

A thick chest, trained and lean limbs. Faded blonde hair, rumored to have Western blood, that flowed like a lion’s mane.

Scars on his right eyebrow and left cheek stood out white against his tanned skin. The scar that notched his thick eyebrow was close to his eye, and they said he would have been blinded if it had been slightly off.

His light brown eyes, which fortunately remained unharmed and appeared golden in the light, narrowed unhappily when he saw me.

“Adelheid. I didn’t expect to see your face here.”

“I didn’t expect to see yours either, Felix—Felix von ‘Ritter.’”

Of course, I had expected to see him.

I had confirmed that the Knights had training scheduled and that his name was on the list of those in charge.

He was a noble for one generation, bearing the title of “Knight Ritter.”

Aside from special cases like Leticia, the only way for a commoner to become a noble was to join the Royal Knights, prove their worth, and become a high-ranking knight.

Upon becoming a high-ranking knight, they were granted the title of ‘von’ and the surname “Ritter,” and received numerous privileges, though not to the same extent as hereditary nobles.

Above all, they were famous for their strength, and many children in Eustasia—both noble and commoner—looked up to them.

That was the Eustasia Knights.

He was their leader, the Knight Commander.

He held authority second only to His Majesty in military matters, and in terms of rank, though in a different sphere, he was my equal.

Despite his youth, he commanded immense trust from his soldiers.

He was also popular with women, but he had a reputation for being a womanizer, which made me question if he was suitable for my sister.

Well, I knew he was more serious than the rumors suggested.

For better or worse, he didn’t see women as women.

He preferred horses to women, enjoyed hanging out with his male friends, and liked physical activities—the truth behind the rumors was that young ladies who were dragged along on long rides on horseback, disguised as ‘dates,’ and ended up with sore backsides and thighs, spread exaggerated stories.

As the head of the Vanderwaals, I knew the source of the rumors, but I had some sympathy for him, so I let them be.

He wasn’t privy to gossip, and the knights knew what kind of man their commander was.

So, there was no real harm.

His reputation and honor were none of my concern.

If I were to speak of the good rumors, he was a wild, handsome man, a knight among knights, excelling in martial arts, especially swordsmanship… or something like that.

Personally, I thought he was overrated.

From the perspective of the Kingdom of Eustasia, it was a good thing that the Knight Commander was rumored to be a good person, so they let the rumors spread.

However, some young noblemen, inspired by such rumors, would run away from home, hide their identities, and try to join the Knights.

Most of the time, the task of searching for and investigating these individuals fell to the Vanderwaals, increasing our workload, which was truly annoying.

It was also an opportunity to gain favor or gather leverage, to be sure.

――My connection with him also stemmed from such work.

He, who valued military strength and honor as the head of the Knights, and I, who considered where to use that strength and prioritized intelligence gathering to avoid using the Knights whenever possible.

It was only natural that we didn’t get along.

Unlike Prince Konrad, with whom I had a personal dislike, our positions were fundamentally different.

“That’s a good horse… No, wait. You’re leading a horse?”

His thick eyebrows furrowed.

“Who is this?”

“My sister. My half-sister.”

Knight Commander Felix looked understanding.

“Ah, I see…”

He leaned his lance against the fence and dismounted from his black horse with a graceful leap.

His movements were as light as one would expect from a Knight Commander.

“[It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am Felix von Ritter, Knight Commander of the Eustasia Knights.]”

――His self-introduction was exactly the official line.

Leticia also dismounted from the white horse.

I had been watching carefully, ready to support her if needed, but she landed safely on the grass.

Considering it was her first time riding a horse today, she looked quite natural.

“…[It is a pleasure to meet you, Sir Felix. My name is Leticia] von Vanderwaals.”

Aside from stating her surname, she returned his self-introduction with the same official line and smiled faintly.

What if he fell for her…? Well, since it was the official scenario, the probability was one in three, and there was nothing I could do about it.

At that moment, the white horse, Lillie, nudged Leticia’s cheek with her muzzle.

Seeing that, Felix’s expression softened, a rare sight.

…Yes. Just as described in the [Text Log] in my mind: [Seeing me being nuzzled by the white horse, he softened his expression.]

Were the horse’s actions and the Knight Commander’s reaction also predetermined by fate?

Then, what about his next words?

“[You like horses too?]”

…Here it comes.

The [Choice].

Until now, it had been a straight path.

If the player wanted to get closer to the prince—although it had gone in a strange direction—they just had to follow the story.

But the remaining two were different.

By choosing from the options presented, the player could elicit different reactions.

There were multiple choices, and it wasn’t decided in one go… it seemed.

I didn’t know the exact specifications, such as how many times to choose each option or if there were any options that should never be chosen.

Basically, the options were designed to show a willingness to connect with the person.

Here, Leticia had two options.

[1. “Not particularly…”] and [2. “Yes, I like horses too.”].

The numbers in front were for clarity, I supposed.

Essentially, she just needed to show a willingness to engage with him.

And Leticia’s answer was—

“[Yes, I like horses too.]”

――It was an answer that reached out to him.

She did seem to genuinely like horses, so it was probably a natural response.

Lillie was also fond of Leticia.

But I see.

Perhaps Leticia was drawn to men like him.

…With a hint of sadness, I watched, holding my breath, to see if the Knight Commander’s subsequent words would match those in [Moonlight Liberium].

“[Oh? We seem to have something in common.]”

――It was exactly as the script dictated.

And he smiled faintly. …He usually only showed me a grimace, so it was refreshing.

Leticia also smiled back.

“They’re delicious, aren’t they?”

…Leticia?

Wasn’t your ‘like’ a little different?

---

Eustasia Knights, Knight Commander
Felix von Ritter

CV: Censored
Sample Voice 1 Sample Voice 2 Sample Voice 3

Commander of the Eustasia Knights. One of the capture targets in [Moonlight Liberium].
As his appearance suggests, he doesn’t worry about small details and has a bold personality. 26 years old (at the time of his appearance).
He excels in martial arts and is also good at taking care of others, earning him absolute trust from his subordinates. He loves horses and enjoys riding. He is the type who wants to spend time with someone he likes.
However, since it’s a Yuri game, he’s a placeholder.

23. Riding Double

Ciel returned, leading a white horse.

“Wow… what a beautiful horse.”

“Yes.”

I walked up to the horse, extended my hand to its muzzle, and called its name.

“Lillie. Have you been well?”

Lillie neighed softly in response to her name and gently nudged my cheek. I stroked her while nuzzling her face.

Her ears were tilted back, so I reached out and stroked her further.

Recently, I had been under a lot of stress, trying to maintain a convenient scenario that ignored reality while repeatedly doing things I didn’t want to do. This was incredibly healing.

We had several other horses boarded at this ranch, but Ciel had chosen this one, as expected.

Lillie, being a mare, had a gentle disposition, listened well, and was obedient. She was a prized horse that anyone would want, but also perfect for a beginner to get used to riding.

With Ciel’s guidance, I was now confident I could handle any horse, even without a saddle, but a docile horse was easier, and I could simply enjoy riding.

And this horse was a special gift from my late father on my sixteenth birthday.

She was only about a month old foal at the time, so she was now seven years old.

My father wasn’t stingy with dresses and accessories necessary for social occasions, but he wasn’t the type to give personal gifts.

My mother was the same; she showed her affection through words and actions, not material things.

Perhaps it was a consideration to prevent me, the eldest child of a family with immense power, from becoming arrogant.

So, I hadn’t expected anything for my sixteenth birthday… my coming of age celebration.

But he gave me an unexpected gift.

I had never asked for anything.

I was given spending money, but I left my clothes to the tailor and only bought recreational books. Since I never pestered my parents, I might have been a difficult child for them.

My mother had passed away, and I had expected my birthday party to be the only gift from my father.

Indeed, there was nothing at the party venue. Later, he uncharacteristically took me to a ranch outside the capital, where he introduced me to Lillie.

I fell in love with Lillie at first sight.

I diligently made time between my noble education—and other training—to visit the ranch frequently with Ciel, caring for Lillie. I was truly happy when she was finally ready to carry a rider.

My father passed away just two years after giving me Lillie.

――I wish I had talked to him more.

Because I realized that he had been watching over me, in his own way.

Perhaps it was Ciel’s suggestion, but even so, I believed he cared enough about me to listen to her advice.

My father was gone.

I was the head of the Vanderwaals.

But he had left me something.

The Vanderwaals’ assets. Title, land, cash, jewels, art, connections—everything tangible and intangible.

And the small memories, represented by Lillie.

…And Leticia.

The biggest, but also the most troublesome gift.

She was also the difficult matter that occupied most of my thoughts now.

Since learning about my sister—about [Moonlight Liberium]—I had been completely preoccupied with it.

I couldn’t neglect my duties as head of the family.

So, I hadn’t been to the ranch recently.

“I’m glad you’re doing well.”

I lightly ran my fingers through her mane, smoothing it, and patted her neck before stepping away.

“How nice…”

Leticia murmured softly.

I turned and smiled slightly.

“You’re about to ride her now.”

Today, I intended to be a little less mean.

I was in front of Lillie. Although she was gentle, an accident involving a horse could be fatal. I couldn’t afford to ‘joke around’ too much.

Whether it was fate or something else, I was keenly aware of its lack of support these days.

“Oh, no, not that… I mean, never mind.”

“?”

I didn’t understand what my sister was trying to say, but I beckoned her over.

“Greet her. Politely, but without being subservient. You are also this horse’s master.”

“Yes. —I’m Leticia. Nice to meet you today.”

Lillie neighed softly, her lips trembling slightly, in response to being addressed.

“Leticia, I’ll help you. First, put your foot in the stirrup.”

“Yes, Elder Sister.”

She put one foot in the stirrup as instructed, without any wobbling.

Her response was good.

“Can you balance and swing your leg over the saddle?”

“I can’t, Elder Sister.”

Only her response was good.

“Lady Adelheid, I will—”

“Ciel, please.”

I had no experience teaching someone to ride.

Ciel’s assistance felt like being supported while still moving on your own… and it didn’t take long for the movements to become ingrained in my body.

I had heard that Ciel, who was seven years older than me, had been thoroughly trained in all sorts of knowledge and skills ahead of me, for my sake.

Teaching while still learning herself, she was always someone who walked ahead of me.

It didn’t take long for Leticia, under her guidance, to be able to swing her leg over the saddle with assistance.

Noble young ladies varied, but for those who were pampered and raised as if riding was out of the question… even Ciel wouldn’t have been able to teach them so quickly.

I had been quite thoroughly trained by Ciel.

Apparently, the reason was, “In case of an emergency, if you can’t ride a horse, your options for escape are limited. Your chances of survival decrease.”

A reason unique to the Vanderwaals.

Ordinary young ladies were taught riding for health and figure maintenance through moderate exercise—and, more importantly, to be able to accompany gentlemen who enjoyed riding.

“Now then, Lady Adelheid… do you need any assistance?”

“No, Ciel. …You trained me, after all.”

I chuckled at her rare attempt at a joke.

I placed my hand lightly on the saddle, put my foot in the stirrup, and swung myself up behind Leticia, who had already removed her foot from the stirrup. I adjusted my position, placing my feet in both stirrups, and sat down.

Ciel took the lead rope.

“I will take the lead rope.”

“Thank you.”

With Lillie as the horse and Ciel leading, I had no worries.

“Eek!?”

Leticia let out a strange cry when I wrapped my arms around her waist from behind.

I ignored it, assuming she was startled by the suddenness, and held on firmly to make sure she didn’t fall.

“Leticia, are you uncomfortable anywhere?”

“My chest feels tight…”

Leticia said, trembling and looking down.

My anxiety lasted only a moment.

My sister cried out in a muffled voice, as if in agony.

“This position… Elder Sister is too close, it’s bad for my heart…!”

I didn’t quite understand what she meant, and my mind drifted to the distant stars in the night sky.

For now, I decided to ignore it.

22. Riding Lesson

“We’ve been expecting you, Lady Adelheid and Lady Leticia.”

As we arrived at the stables after leaving the guesthouse, Ciel greeted us.

“Wow… Ciel, you look so cool!”

Leticia whispered to me, leaning close.

Ciel could probably hear her, even with that level of whispering, but her expression remained as composed as ever.

As Leticia had just observed, Ciel, true to her word, looked impeccably stylish in a tailcoat instead of her usual maid uniform.

I didn’t know any other woman who could pull off the “handsome woman in men’s clothing” look so well.

However, her usual thick black hair, normally tucked into a maid’s cap, was now tied back in a ponytail, and, more importantly, the curves of her chest, pushing against the white shirt and black tie under her tailcoat, were evident, so no one would mistake her for a man.

“Ah! But Elder Sister is the coolest!”

“…Ha.”

I responded with a dry laugh, without thinking.

It wasn’t a deliberate attempt to be sarcastic; it was a genuine reaction.

It was just… too unconvincing.

“It’s true! This is the first time I’ve seen Elder Sister in trousers, but the riding outfit really suits you, and your posture is so elegant—”

I placed my hand on my sister’s head, cutting off her stream of inexplicable praise, and gently pushed her back.

“Okay, okay, I understand. Calm down.”

My sister looked up at me, her head still held down by my hand.

Her blue eyes, the same shade as mine, gazed at me intently, as if testing me.

“…Do you really understand? Really?”

…No, Ciel was definitely more handsome than me, in every way.

――My ideal woman was Ciel.

Of course, I loved my mother, but she was a delicate person.

Someone you wanted to protect… and I wanted to be the protector.

…Did my mother know about my father’s infidelity… about Leticia’s existence?

I didn’t even know if my father himself knew.

But to me, it was a clear betrayal of my mother.

…By the time I finally became an adult, there was no one close to me left to protect.

Ciel, perhaps, but she was stronger than me, and, more importantly, she seemed to consider herself my protector.

In this uncertain world, if there was anyone I could trust unconditionally, it was Ciel.

It was unlikely, but if she ever betrayed me, it would be my fault for failing to be a worthy master for her to serve and support.

…When I told her, as a child, that I wanted to be like her when I grew up, Ciel, unusually, gave a wry smile.

I’ll never forget her words as she stroked my head, “My lady, you can become someone far more wonderful than me.”

…I still didn’t think I had reached that point.

In terms of title, I was far above Ciel.

But that was all.

Unlike her, I was born into a ducal family.

That was the only difference.

“Leticia, you’re free to consider me the best, but objectively speaking, anyone would say Ciel is more handsome.”

I tried to instill this simple truth, but my sister wouldn’t budge.

“Then I’ll be the one hundred and first person to say you are!”

Had she not heard me say “anyone”?

She was challenging the premise itself.

“Then allow me to be the one hundred and second,” Ciel added with a straight face, and both Leticia and I turned to look at her. My sister beamed, as if vindicated.

“See! Even Ciel agrees!”

She puffed out her chest.

“Leticia, she’s my maid. What kind of servant would say they’re more handsome than their master?”

“Um…”

Leticia averted her gaze.

“Come on, let’s go.”

“O-okay!”

The three of us walked together to the grassy field enclosed by a wooden fence.

It was spacious and pleasant.

“Now then, Lady Leticia, you will follow my instructions here. Understood?”

“Yes!”

A good answer.

Ciel smiled.

“Excellent. However, please refrain from raising your voice too loudly. It might startle the horses and cause an accident.”

“Yes.”

Another good answer.

She had properly lowered her voice.

“I will explain everything as we go, but never stand behind a horse. Remember this above all else. If you’re kicked, the consequences could be severe.”

“Yes.”

How nostalgic.

I had been taught the same way, by Ciel, in this very place.

More than ten years had passed since then.

I never imagined this would be my fate.

Even so, this place remained unchanged.

The grassland, with its changing appearance through the seasons, the sky, the mountains in the distance—nothing had changed.

Some things remained constant.

As a noble, as the head of the Vanderwaals, there were things I had to protect.

Ciel addressed me as I reminisced, lost in thought.

“—Are you alright, Lady Adelheid?”

“Huh? Oh, yes. If Ciel says so. But I was just… lost in thought. What should I be doing?”

I nodded reflexively and tried to cover up my absentmindedness.

“Are you sure you’re alright? How are you feeling?”

She looked at me intently.

Her diagnoses were more accurate than most physicians.

After all, she had been caring for me since I was born.

Ciel was raised to be my most trusted advisor when I became the head of the family—or so she said.

She claimed it was her own volition, but Ciel was only seven when I was born.

My mother, also a Vanderwaals maid, had passed away before I was born, and Ciel was living at the mansion, doing simple tasks as a servant-in-training.

A lonely girl with no one to rely on couldn’t possibly have refused.

My family had bound her future.

With her talent, she could have become anything.

“I’m fine, Ciel. There’s nothing for you to worry about.”

When I died, she would be free.

If possible, I wanted her to continue supporting the Vanderwaals… Leticia… after that.

“If you say so…”

Ciel still seemed unconvinced.

“So? What should I be doing?”

“I requested a double riding lesson for you and Lady Leticia, to help her get used to horses.”

“…Huh?”

I was momentarily confused.

“When did you arrange that?”

“Just now.”

Apparently, it was my fault for being lost in thought.

“There are various teaching methods, but I believe it’s important to first get accustomed to being on a horse, and I believe that is the correct approach.”

“Well, yes…”

I myself had learned by riding with Ciel.

The riding lesson itself was absolutely necessary.

To meet the second Capture Target today.

And for the future [Horse Riding Event].

“Riding alone can be dangerous in unexpected situations. With an experienced rider, there’s no such risk. Of course, I will also be there to assist.”

“…Wouldn’t I be enough as support?”

I tried to resist, still afraid of altering fate.

“Not that you wouldn’t be sufficient, but…”

Ciel said, glancing at Leticia.

I looked at my sister—her eyes were sparkling with anticipation.

I looked back at Ciel.

“…Bring… the horses…”

I wasn’t heartless enough to disappoint that look.

21. Matching Riding Outfits

“Ciel, what is the meaning of this?”

“The meaning of what, exactly?”

Having just checked into the ranch’s guesthouse and been shown to our room, I was interrogating Ciel.

“I’m asking why my sister and I are sharing a room.”

“Considering the number of people, I thought this would be the most suitable arrangement. …Although we weren’t expecting to require much assistance, I’m the only maid on this trip, which led to this room assignment. …Shall I have them prepare a separate room for you now?”

She was right.

…So I could have avoided this if I’d brought another maid.

But increasing the number of servants would have subtly increased the budget and the burden on the horses pulling the carriage, and I didn’t want any more maids giving us knowing looks. Above all, I didn’t want to introduce any ‘uncertain elements.’

I had already experienced the lack of fate’s support during the incident with the prince.

And now, I was experiencing the thoroughness of Ciel’s support.

I never dreamt there would come a day when I cursed the ‘competence’ of the person I trusted most.

Leticia, who had been quietly observing the situation, hesitantly spoke.

“Um… Elder Sister, do you… dislike sharing a room with me?”

Of course not!

…If only I could answer that way. How much easier it would be.

…Getting a separate room… well, while the Vanderwaals’ coffers were ample, that would be a waste of money.

I liked and trusted slush funds, but I hated wasteful spending.

“…Well, we’re traveling. There are bound to be some inconveniences.”

“So…?”

Ciel looked at me expectantly.

I sighed and nodded.

“There’s no need to change rooms.”

“As you wish.”

“Elder Sister…”

My sister breathed a sigh of relief, her anxious expression transforming into a radiant smile.

…My sister was truly adorable.

She could probably captivate any of the [Capture Targets].

Who she would choose… I didn’t know.

I wasn’t involved in any of the romance events.

However, I could participate in the events where she met them.

For some reason, the unseen playwright insisted on involving the ‘villainous sister’—me—who was supposed to be a nuisance.

I knew all of them.

Her three potential love interests—the First Prince, heir to the throne of the Kingdom of Eustasia, the Captain of the Eustasia Knights, and the Chief Physician of the Royal Medical Corps—were all important figures in the kingdom.

I also had their personal information.

However, I couldn’t say I was personally close to any of them.

Even excluding Prince Konrad, the person we were about to meet wasn’t on good terms with me.

…Could I really trust them to care for my sister?

I wasn’t certain.

According to the story, they all eventually fell head over heels for her, each showering her with affection in their own way.

Whether I approved was another matter; what mattered was whether Leticia approved.

So far, the future I had seen had mostly… mostly come to pass.

My sister’s existence. The clothes “Tailor” made. The timing of the encounter with the prince. My sister and the prince’s self-introductions—and so on.

…Although my sister tripped, and the prince’s important line was missing, Prince Konrad seemed to have taken a liking to Leticia.

My sister was adorable, so I was confident that if I orchestrated their meeting, they would eventually be drawn to each other.

Even the legendary beauty from the eastern country, said to be a fox spirit in disguise, would be no match for my sister’s charm.

I would believe it if someone told me she was a fairy.

As the head of the Vanderwaals, all that mattered was that Leticia would quell the coming calamity.

And as an older sister… I wanted my sister to find happiness.

One step at a time.

Tracing the path of fate.

No matter how different the journey, as long as my sister was smiling in the final scene, that was all that mattered.

“Ciel, once you’ve changed, go ahead and prepare the horses. We’ll be there shortly after we’ve changed as well.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Ciel bowed and left the room.

I took the riding clothes out of my trunk and tossed them rather unceremoniously at my sister.

“Get ready.”

“Okay.”

I sat on the edge of the bed, the open trunk between my sister and me, and started unbuttoning my jacket.

—Then, following my lead, my sister sat next to me and began to change as well.

…We were both women, and sisters, so there was nothing strange about it.

There shouldn’t be.

But I couldn’t bring myself to look directly at her, so I finished changing while deliberately averting my gaze.

At the entrance of the room, I tucked my trousers into my long boots, keeping my back to my sister so I wouldn’t see her.

I heard the rustle of fabric behind me.

A moment later, I sensed my sister, presumably finished changing, putting on her long boots.

Then, I heard her cheerful voice.

“Ready!”

“Slow…”

I turned around, intending to add a sarcastic “You’re late,” as befitting a villainous sister, but the words caught in my throat.

My sister, seemingly misinterpreting my silence, looked anxious.

“Is something… wrong? Do I look strange?”

No.

Quite the opposite.

…She looked… cute in that outfit.

A vibrant red riding jacket, a color that was becoming Leticia’s signature, paired with slim, form-fitting white breeches and dark brown leather riding boots.

While the design was the same as mine, they looked completely different.

As “Tailor” had said, ‘Lady Leticia is quite well-endowed,’ so the chest area was likely cut differently.

The color was also different; mine was navy blue. But that wasn’t the point.

Her short blonde hair and the activewear suited her, giving her a dashing air, which was both cute and refreshing.

I was beginning to understand “Tailor’s” oft-repeated philosophy, ‘Cute girls should wear cute clothes.’

I had thought I understood the power of clothing, having been raised as a noble lady… but it seemed I had been foolishly arrogant.

“…You should thank “Tailor.” The clothes are… not bad.”

I felt sorry for the third Capture Target, the Chief Physician, but at this rate, the second [Capture Target], the Knight Commander, might be so captivated by my sister’s charm that his turn would never come.

But the first Capture Target, the prince, had also seen Leticia in a dress.

It seemed a competition for my sister’s affections was about to begin.

…I hoped it wouldn’t be too ungentlemanly, or the country might be split in two. I prayed my sister wouldn’t be called a femme fatale.

“Yes! I’m grateful to “Tailor”!”

She had come to trust someone she had been so wary of before.

“And to you too, Elder Sister… thank you.”

…What was she saying?

“Me? I haven’t done anything to deserve your—”

“Elder Sister! …These are the clothes you ordered!”

Interrupting me, my sister exclaimed, then continued in a calmer tone.

“Of course, “Tailor” made them, but you’re the one who paid for them, right?”

“…It’s Vanderwaals money.”

“But you’re the head of the family, the only one who can authorize such spending, right?”

“…………”

…My sister was persistent.

She was making me realize that I had been relying too much on the title of ‘Head of the Vanderwaals Family’… on the nickname “Coldhearted Vanderwaals.”

Most people who stood before me were intimidated. They understood the weight of this name… the ‘power’ this position held.

I was taken aback by Leticia, who showed no fear whatsoever.

“—Besides, I’m happy because they’re similar to your usual clothes, like we’re matching.”

Facing Leticia, her face flushed, I fell silent.

…I was losing.

I, too… when I saw my own riding outfit, already tailored and delivered, the same design as Leticia’s but in a different color, I was surprised.

There was no way “Tailor” would cut corners on the design.

Which meant… she thought it ‘suited Leticia’—

That an outfit designed to complement mine, in a different color, would suit my sister.

…That was it.

I was a little happy when I realized that.

Such a trivial thing as matching outfits with my sister in different colors made me happy.

And—I was overjoyed that my sister felt the same way.

That’s why… I was losing.

No, perhaps I never stood a chance from the beginning.

I was the villainous sister, and she was the protagonist.

“…Let’s go.”

“Okay!”

Leticia followed behind me like a duckling.

She smiled at me when I glanced back at the corner.

I turned the corner, forcing myself to look away.

――So far, the events were proceeding mostly according to the scenario.

But it was impossible to perfectly replicate such a complex story.

Besides, I was probably the only one aware that we were acting out a play.

That’s why I was trying to steer the gradually diverging storyline back on track.

Following the key points of the [Events], I would ensure that things proceeded according to fate’s scenario.

That’s why…

…It didn’t matter how different the journey was.

It shouldn’t.

20. The Carriage to the Ranch

The weekend arrived after we finished preparing for our short trip.

It was a beautiful autumn day. The air was crisp, and there was hardly any wind. Only the high clouds drifted slowly across the sky.

Since the purpose of this trip wasn’t to flaunt our wealth, we only used one carriage.

Our family wasn’t one for ostentatious displays of wealth anyway, so this was just right.

Even though it was a trip, the ranch was in the outskirts of the royal capital, less than an hour away by carriage at a brisk pace.

Not that there was any reason to rush, but it wasn’t a long distance.

It was only an overnight trip. Even with extra clothes for riding, our luggage wasn’t excessive. The storage compartment at the back of the carriage had plenty of space, and everything was lightweight.

Since it was a short trip, we didn’t need any servants besides the coachman.

I considered leaving Ciel in charge… but then I would be the only one responsible for Leticia’s riding lessons.

…That would be too much of a burden.

We shouldn’t become too close.

I needed to keep my distance from my sister.

“I leave the rest to you.”

So, I left the butler, the head of the male servants, in charge of the mansion.

While I placed my complete trust in Ciel, the elderly butler was also a competent servant who had served the family since the previous generation, even though his role as assistant head of the family was less prominent.

As the head of the family, I boarded the carriage first.

Then, I immediately called for Ciel.

“Ciel, come sit next to me.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Last time, my sister had taken the seat next to me.

I wouldn’t let that happen on this trip.

“Then I’ll sit in front of Elder Sister!”

Leticia declared as she boarded the carriage and took the seat facing me.

She grinned at me, looking utterly delighted.

…Perhaps sitting next to her would have been better, as I wouldn’t have to meet her gaze directly.

I had managed to maintain some distance, at least physically.

But my sister was relentlessly closing the emotional distance between us.

“…Let’s go.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

The reins were pulled, and the carriage started moving.

For a while, my sister watched the passing scenery through the curtained window.

The royal capital of Eustasia had many stone buildings, and the ground was mostly paved with cobblestones.

“I’ve hardly ever been outside the capital.”

I refrained from mentioning that some people considered the “back alley” where she lived to be ‘outside the capital.’

It had been a while since I had left the capital as well.

I always tried to maintain a broad perspective, carefully examining information gathered from both within the country and abroad… but because of my work, I was, in a way, tied to the capital.

My memories of traveling abroad for studies, when I was a little younger than my sister now, felt distant.

Now, I was a wall lizard, clinging to the stone walls of the capital.

Perhaps it was instinct, but something about my sister’s phrasing bothered me.

“…’Hardly ever’? So you have been outside the capital?”

My sister nodded slightly.

“Yes. I worked as a beater a few times.”

A beater… what?

“A beater… is that someone who… during a hunt, flushes game out of the bushes or… blocks their escape routes…?”

“Yes. They needed more people.”

I no longer suspected that we were using completely different words, me being from the upper class and my sister from the “back alley.”

We lived in the same world.

“It was a request from a noble, so the pay was pretty good.”

I had heard that sometimes young boys were hired for such tasks because they were cheap.

While rare near the capital, encountering wolves or bears wasn’t unheard of.

Even if it was just deer or foxes, cornered prey could be unpredictable.

――They could inflict serious injuries.

…It probably included hazard pay.

Even her “pretty good” pay was probably a paltry sum considering the risks.

The days when nobles were warriors on the battlefield were long gone.

In modern times, with a standing army and professional soldiers, the only vestige of that era was the system of granting noble titles to high-ranking knights of the Royal Knights.

A noble’s hunt could no longer be called training for times of war, a way to hone one’s skills.

Using beaters for recreational hunting, which wasn’t for training, pest control, or even food… seemed like nothing more than aristocratic arrogance.

My sister’s past was shrouded in mystery.

Even in [Moonlight Liberium], it was barely touched upon.

…It was almost as if it hadn’t been ‘defined.’

A ‘romance simulation game’ was probably a form of entertainment where the player projected themselves onto the protagonist and followed the story.

In reality, investigating someone from the “back alley” was extremely difficult.

Ironically, the fact that she wasn’t involved in any criminal organizations made it impossible to track her movements.

A single human life held little value in the “back alley.”

I couldn’t help but ask.

“…Leticia. What other kinds of work did you do?”

“Working at a bakery, all sorts of things.”

My sister smiled brightly.

I knew about the bakery.

I couldn’t tell her, but it was the ‘last trace’ we found during our investigation.

Even that was only because she happened to be working there at the time.

The fact that she was young and pretty, treated almost like a mascot, also helped.

…She was deflecting my question.

At her blatant evasion, I fell silent, unable to find the right words. Then, Ciel interjected.

“I’m sure there will be other opportunities to talk. …There’s nothing… special to tell.”

…Perhaps that was true.

If even the Vanderwaals’ renowned “shadows” couldn’t uncover anything… it probably meant there was ‘nothing’ to uncover.

She had no significant criminal record… and, conversely, no record of being a victim.

She simply existed…

Quietly.

Alone.

When the investigator honestly told me that further investigation would be costly, with no guarantee of results, even with an unlimited budget… I couldn’t continue.

The Vanderwaals had ample funds… but they weren’t infinite.

A background check was important, since I was granting her noble status.

But that was… over.

There was no need to delve further into my sister’s past.

At least, not politically.

Not for the scenario of [Moonlight Liberium].

There shouldn’t be.

“…If you want to talk about it, you can tell me.”

“Yes! …But there’s really nothing… important to talk about.”

My sister gave her usual smile.

Then, she looked out the window.

“I just… lived my life… that’s all.”

…Sensing a hint of sadness in her expression…

I hoped that someday, even if it wasn’t a dramatic story ‘worth talking about,’ an ‘opportunity to talk’ would arise.

Even if there was no such scenario.

Even if I wasn’t the one she confided in.

I hoped she would find someone she could talk to.

I couldn’t help but hope.

19. Breakfast Before the Trip

My sister’s ‘noble education’ was supposed to be a long-term project.

In reality, we only had about a year.

While her education could continue at a more leisurely pace after that, the goal was the ball about a year from now… the [Final Ball].

She had acquired a certain level of decorum.

Even when she spoke casually, her mannerisms weren’t unpleasant, even if they weren’t exactly aristocratic.

Rather, they were endearing. I wanted to hear more. And I wanted to hug her.

However, as the head of the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals,” more was expected of me.

A polite tone for social occasions, a thick skin for trading barbs, a cold gaze and voice for threats and coercion… all were essential.

These weren’t skills required of a noble lady or a proper young woman.

While different from mine, Leticia also needed certain skills to progress through the events of the game.

“…Horseback riding?”

It had become customary to discuss business matters during meals, while waiting for dessert or coffee.

Today, at breakfast, I informed Leticia that her riding lessons would begin.

“Yes. I’ve arranged for a horse. I’ll give you a textbook. —Ciel, assist my sister.”

“Yes, Lady Adelheid. —Lady Leticia, I will provide you with some basic guidance beforehand. You can rely on my support on the day as well.”

We had stables and horses at the mansion, but they were draft horses.

Our riding horses were kept at a ranch in the countryside. It wasn’t Vanderwaals territory, but it was a reputable ranch with a skilled trainer who also cared for many other nobles’ horses.

“The lessons will be held over the weekend, with an overnight stay. Is that acceptable?”

The ranch also had suitable accommodations for nobles.

“…Yes. Um, will Elder Sister be…?”

“I’m busy. I can’t afford to spend time on my sister’s education.”

My sister looked downcast.

“…Of course.”

My heart ached at the sight… but that had nothing to do with what I was about to say.

Absolutely nothing.

“…That’s what I’d like to say, but…”

“Huh?”

I sighed dramatically.

“We also have our horses in their care. As the head of the family, I have to make an appearance from time to time.”

“So… that means…”

“There will be four of us. The coachman, a maid—Ciel… you… and me.”

This wasn’t my preferred arrangement.

Absolutely not.

It just… ‘happened’ to be that way.

The second [Capture Target] was supposed to appear while I was giving Leticia riding lessons in the countryside.

Why involve the pesky villainous sister in every encounter?

The unseen playwright should consider the feelings of the audience, who wanted to enjoy a simple love story, and the protagonist, who was being subjected to unnecessary torment.

There were no detailed descriptions of what happened before or after the riding lesson.

The overnight stay was also a matter of circumstance.

When I initially planned a day trip, thinking it was enough for the event to occur, Ciel, unusually, voiced her objection.

Of course, I had the final say as the head of the family.

I allowed Ciel to make on-site decisions only when I wasn’t present, but otherwise, my authority always prevailed.

However, after she carefully explained why an overnight stay would be better—considering the distance, the lesson time, and the need for proper rest—I couldn’t refuse.

I pressed my point with my sister, who was frozen in stunned silence.

“Is that acceptable?”

My sister jumped up from her chair.

“Yes! —Yes!! I never imagined I’d be able to go on a trip with Elder Sister so soon!”

…I wanted to dismiss her enthusiasm.

…But I understood.

I understood completely.

Just as I was happy to learn I had a sister.

Perhaps my sister was also happy to learn she had an older sister.

Perhaps she had always longed for an older sister.

…Even though I couldn’t be the kind older sister she admired.

I could only disappoint her.

Disappointing one’s younger sister was a painful, humiliating experience for an older sister.

…In a year, I probably wouldn’t see such a bright smile again.

“――Do not leave your seat during a meal. It’s unladylike.”

“Ah… I’m sorry, Elder Sister.”

Leticia adjusted her skirt and sat back down.

“The accommodations at the ranch are not overly strict about etiquette. However, Leticia, you must remember that you are a daughter of the Vanderwaals, and you carry the honor of a ducal family.”

“…Yes.”

I was the ‘villainous sister.’

I had to be disliked.

She and I were destined enemies.

So, I continued, choosing words that would hurt her.

“If your behavior is unacceptable, I will abandon you. ――You wouldn’t want to return to the ‘back alley,’ would you?”

“…I apologize. I will continue to do my best…”

My sister bowed her head respectfully.

Her actions and speech reflected the results of her noble education.

…I felt like I was forcing her into a mold, suppressing her charm.

My sister had grown up in the “back alley”… in the slums, and yet she had retained her innocence.

She hadn’t asked for this position.

She had never expressed a desire to become a noble.

She simply followed her mother’s dying wish and came to see me… and I followed fate.

That was the extent of our relationship.

I was fine being a stepping stone for my sister.

I wanted her to gain the strength to carry on after I was gone.

I wanted her to have the strength not only to be supported by her partner but also to support him in return, to build a mutually supportive relationship.

That was all I could wish for as an older sister.

But my sister, despite her slight lack of energy, smiled at me.

“…But I’m happy to be going on a trip with Elder Sister. …I’m looking forward to the weekend.”

“…I see.”

The arrival of a bowl of cut fruit for dessert provided a convenient end to the conversation.

I was supposed to be disliked.

She and I were destined enemies.

…And yet, why?

Why hadn’t fate made my sister dislike me from the beginning…?

The fresh fruit tasted like sand in my mouth, and I couldn’t even tell what I was eating.