Published: August 15, 2025
After spending sleepless nights lost in thought and feeling foggy-headed, I was haunted by the Guild Master's smile ever since he threatened me, saying that if I failed to create opposition to isolate the town mayor, more townspeople would be punished alongside him. This only made my stomach ache worse.
Today was finally the day I could go check on the orphanage.
I had the mini bus load a box filled with bedding and food, along with several printing plates. Accompanied by Fran, Gil, Nicola, and Brigitte, we set off for Hasse.
The Guild Master and Darmel still looked on the mini bus with a vague expression, but at least they no longer complained.
"Lady Rosemine, welcome," the gray priests and gray shrine maidens greeted me, kneeling. The four newcomers awkwardly imitated them, repeating the greeting.
My attendants helped unload the luggage, and I tidied up the mini bus.
Looking around, Nora and Marte, who had looked exhausted when first brought here, seemed much healthier. Thor and Rick also appeared lively.
"There was an attack by townsfolk, but it seems you managed all right. Nora and Marte look much better," I remarked.
Nora lifted her head and, in an unfamiliar hesitant tone, asked, "May I speak?" When I nodded, her expression relaxed with relief.
"They couldn't do anything. They couldn't get in, and even when they swung sticks and farm tools, they were just blown away... I was scared but also very relieved. Thank you, Lady Rosemine. I'm glad I came here."
Apparently, they had learned to address me as "Lady Rosemine" over the past few days. The sudden insertion of such a formal title among the casual speech of the children from the lower town amused me, and I smiled softly.
Thor, who had been listening, also raised his face and spoke.
"I was really happy to know that my sister wouldn't be taken away no matter what. And we always have proper meals now. Everyone else said it was you who changed things at the orphanage. You're small, but you're amazing, Lady Rosemine."
His rapid speech was as rough as ever, but his blue eyes no longer carried that tense vigilance; instead, they showed respect and affection.
The gray priests kneeling beside us seemed to hold their heads, as if wanting to say "Ahhh," at the children's language, but considering how wary these four had been just a few days ago, and that they had already learned to use honorifics, I thought they were genuinely trying hard to communicate.
"Rick, the temple must feel very different now, but is everything okay? I imagine the mayor's place offers more freedom..."
"Safety is more important than freedom. Just seeing Marte smile again makes me happy. Thank you, Lady Rosemine," Rick said, softening his gaze at Marte, who shyly smiled back.
These smiles are precious. Taking in these children was the right decision. I want to find a way that benefits both the townspeople and the orphans.
But I have no idea how to isolate the mayor and bring him down, and frankly, I don't want to do it.
...My stomach hurts.
The day after checking on Hasse was the meeting with the Gilberta Trading Company.
With Hugo and the others back, the Italian restaurant was set to open, and we were to discuss the schedule, menu, and my greetings. Additionally, we planned to appoint Benno as a representative and finalize a contract to sell the salting out method to the Wax Workshop.
"Lady Rosemine, you look pale. Would you like to cancel today's meeting?" Fran asked, worry creasing her face as she looked at me while delivering breakfast. I must have seemed quite unwell.
I shook my head.
"I'll attend. I want to see Lutz."
"...Very well. Until then, I will bring you some books so you can rest."
"Thank you, Fran."
Fran spoiled me a bit, so I spent the time before the meeting reading, lounging comfortably. Reading cleared my mind and kept unpleasant thoughts at bay, bringing a peaceful feeling.
Then the third bell rang.
"Watch out!"
At Brigitte's shout, I was grabbed by the shoulder and pulled back. Blinking in surprise, I found a thick pillar right in front of me; she had stopped me from walking into it.