Published: July 29, 2025
Mio first took me to the front of the castle gate.
We retraced the route we had taken yesterday with Father, at the same pace.
Granado Castle was a huge complex, half made of stone towers and the other half a beautiful mansion built of brick and wood.
The stone part was said to have been built over two hundred years ago. Back when this place was the edge of the kingdom’s territory, the margrave had constructed it as a fortress. In the peaceful modern era, it still exuded an imposing sense of weightiness.
“It’s collectively called ‘Count Granado Castle,’ but the castle part is mostly decorative. Besides negotiating with merchants, it’s used for special ceremonies, parties, and exhibitions to show prestige to visiting dignitaries. The actual living quarters are in the ‘mansion’ part.”
I see. No wonder it didn’t feel lived-in.
Stepping out the back door of the castle, the scenery suddenly opened up. It was a splendid garden. Across the garden stood a stylish mansion. Nearby, there was a small bathhouse.
I realized... yesterday, I had been looking down as I walked and hadn’t noticed, but this was how it was laid out.
The wooden section was the living space. It was new, built when Lady Ryuu-Ryuu moved in, with waterways, wells, running water, fireplaces, and ventilation windows here and there. It was safe, convenient, and comfortable.
As Mio opened the mansion door, she explained this to me.
“The first floor has the kitchen, bathhouse management facilities, and living quarters for the servants. Most of them live here full-time, some with their wives, children, and families. They work in shifts to guard the castle day and night and take care of their master.”
“Oh…”
“The second floor contains the private rooms of the count’s family. Breakfast and tea snacks are served there, while lunch and dinner are brought to the dining hall on the first floor.”
Now that I think about it, last night’s dinner was brought here with the comment, ‘Today, we’ll have it here.’ I wonder what the castle’s dining hall is like.
“Then there’s the main guest room. Ordinary visitors are received in the ‘castle’ part, but dukes, close relatives, and special friends are guided here.”
“I see... then why was I shown there right from the start?”
“Your father handled things in the castle.”
That was a confusing answer.
So, while receiving explanations, I walked all around the mansion. It was very large and magnificent, full of flowers and gorgeous, yet carefully cleaned.
The castle was also meticulously maintained, filled with a gentle cleanliness. The intimidating feeling I had at first was reassuring when seen from inside.
...It’s wonderful. Completely different from Chadelan. My family’s old house was spacious but lacked budget for upkeep, no housekeeper, and I had to manage to maintain it alone. The wear and tear over time was always noticeable.
I greeted every maid except Hanna and Ilza, as well as the head chef and gardener whenever we passed each other. Some were friendly, others looked a bit tense, but everyone politely introduced themselves.
The tour that began at the castle gate ended back there.
I gasped when I saw the gatekeeper there. Maybe he had been on break earlier—I was finally able to meet him again. I called out before Mio could.
“You’re Thomas, right? I’m sorry my father troubled you yesterday.”
He turned around and jumped as if extremely surprised.
“Madam, how do you know my name?”
Oh, madam...
Well, I was his official fiancée, so it wasn’t wrong. I didn’t deny it and bowed again.
“I thought that was how I was supposed to address you. Did I make a mistake?”
“That’s right! I never imagined you’d remember.”
“That’s good. Let me properly introduce myself: I’m Marie Chadelan. Thomas, could you please tell me your full name? Since I’ll be under your care from now on, I want to remember everyone’s names.”
“Ah... My full name is Thomas Tender Divomov. Haha, my real name is rare and hard to pronounce in the kingdom, so please just call me Thomas.”