By the Grace of the Gods

Some time had passed since Ryoma’s departure, and it was the hectic period akin to Japan’s “Shiwasu,” when everyone, regardless of status, busied themselves preparing for the year’s end and the coming new year... In a room of a mansion in the Royal Capital, five girls were being served tea and sweets.

However, only one among the five actually touched any of the treats.

That was Eliaria, the daughter of the mansion’s master.

“Everyone, you don’t have to worry so much, you know? Especially you, Kanan.”

“Even if you say that, it’s troubling, no, I mean, I’m troubled.”

“Kanan, could you just act normally? Sorry, but even I’m starting to feel nervous.”

“Why!? Michelle is, after all, a noble daughter from a count’s household, so I want her to set an example!”

“Ha ha, unfortunately, in our family, noble titles are something we’ve earned as a bonus after generations of scholarly study and pursuing our hearts’ desires. I can’t say this loudly, but my parents and I tend to prioritize our interests and often toss etiquette aside. We have only had the bare minimum of training in it. You should direct such concerns to Liera.”

“Don’t so boldly say things that don’t give even a tiny bit of pride. But as a lady, I can’t say much about others’ manners either... Maybe I should have at least worn a dress?”

“You were told to be ‘as usual’, so isn’t that fine? Besides, if you try to fake it halfway, it’ll be seen through anyway.”

“True, yes, that’s right. But Miyabi is very composed.”

“Not at all. This is... more like ‘giving up’. Something similar happened once before...”

“We’re just introducing my family to my friends, after all...”

“Eliaria...” the four girls exchanged silent, meaningful glances, understanding how important this was.

Just then, the ornate door was knocked upon.

“Sorry to keep you waiting. The gentlemen have arrived.”

“!!” The four girls stood up at once, and Eliaria rose gracefully a little later.

Entering the room were a young man and woman, and an elderly man.

“Apologies for the wait. I am Reinhardt, the current head of Duke Jamil’s household. Thank you for always looking after my daughter.”

“Father! Mother and grandfather are late, too.”

“Sorry about that. We had an unplanned visitor.”

“That aside, I’m glad to see you well, Eliaria.”

“I’m glad to see you, grandfather, mother, and father all well.”

After the family exchanged words, the conversation quickly turned to the four girls.

“By the way, Eliaria, won’t you introduce your friends? Just briefly for now.”

“Of course! From the left, the most nervous here is Kanan.”

“Kanan Shuza! I’m aiming to become a magic tool craftsman, ma’am!”

“So you’re Kanan-chan. I’ve heard about you from Eliaria’s letter. You’re from the Shuza family, right?”

“Oh, speaking of the Shuza family, is Lord Deffel well? I used to be well acquainted with him, but when I visited his shop recently, I was told he retired...”

“Grandpa, my grandfather is doing well. He didn’t retire because of sickness but because of age—his eyesight and dexterity have declined, so he suddenly declared he couldn’t do satisfying work anymore... But since it’s his hobby, he still makes magic tools every day, and often better than active craftsmen, scolding the younger ones.”

“That’s good. If you get a chance, please tell Reinbach he sends his regards.”

“Got it! ...Ah.”

Kanan’s expression fell as if she realized she’d said something wrong, but the three adults smiled and told her not to worry. Unbeknownst to her, her dog ears and tail constantly gave away her nervousness and unfamiliarity with such occasions.

Eliaria then introduced Miyabi to prevent any gaps.

“This is Miyabi Saionji. As you know, she is the daughter of Pioro, head of the Saionji Trading Company. Both she and her father send their regards.”

“You’re Pioro’s daughter!”

“Your father has also been very helpful to our family.”