I never replied to her after what happened and just led her to Merrideth. Of all the days I try to avoid them, I will now face both the evil cousins. The more I tried to run, the closer I got to them.
I let out a heavy sigh before I knocked three times on the door. A servant opened it for us.
"Princess, your sister and Lady Hatchett are here." I heard every step of her shoes coming in our direction.
"Desdemona! Good to see you. Did you bring me any rare gemstones?" Fortunately, the Princess seemed to be in a good mood today. It was as if she didn't notice me because her attention was on Lady Hatchett, even though I was right in front of her. Not that I'm complaining; I would appreciate it if she treated me like air every time we met.
I felt relieved when both of them entered the room. It seemed Merrideth was on a break because she didn't burst out in anger.
Did something like this happen in my past life? All I remember is that Lady Hatchett liked to bring Merrideth rare gemstones whenever she returned from traveling; that's why she is the favorite cousin.
Instead of doing chores today, I made my way to my secret spot, the cliff. Maybe they won't even notice I'm gone. While I wait for the day I meet that strange man, I will practice my physical skills first. I didn't even feel worried that he might report me for attempting to use magic. I once died, so I'm not afraid of dying anymore.
I endured the pain in my body while I soaked in my sweat. The noise from the swaying trees and birds mixed with my gasping for breath. My palms started to form calluses, and my body began to feel lighter.
Watching the knights play every day and practicing what they did improved my strength and mental skills. It is not as easy as it seems. The pain in your body, the fatigue, and the doubts about whether you can do it can all be discouraging.
I heard a loud clap from behind me. I didn't see it coming. His presence was so well-hidden that he was only a meter away. It was the warlord of Halovaron, Sir Frederick. We had never met before, so I felt nervous and shocked. It isn't right to train like this without the Imperial palace's approval. This is a sin that could cost me my life.
"I am in awe. You have guts, young miss."
"S-sir Frederick." I bowed slightly. I couldn't hide the nervousness in my voice.
"You actually have talent if you train more." I wasn't sure if I should take it as a compliment or if he was just mocking me.
He was already in his early 40s, but you couldn't tell by his looks. I saw him as strict, cold, and ruthless. Most of Halovaron's victories in battle were under his command. He was likely my father's loyal dog. He followed the emperor's orders without hesitation, and now my life hung by a thread.
"Sir Frederick, with all due respect, I hope you can keep this a secret," I said, looking directly into his eyes. I wanted him to know I was sincere. I didn't want to die from my own foolishness in this second life. Plus, I hadn't even tasted the satisfaction of my revenge.
His loud laugh echoed in my ears and made me question if I was dreaming. I pinched myself, and the pain confirmed it. This was real.
"Child, you don't have to be nervous. You are a talent that can be shaped into the next warlord. I've seen you observing during training. I wondered what all those things were in your bag when you left the palace." With that, it became clear that I hadn't been as vigilant as I thought. With these silly ideas of mine, could I really survive? But I always trusted my instincts, just like trusting someone I barely knew.
"Being a warlord is a big responsibility, Sir Frederick. Even before, I wanted to be a soldier of the empire. It isn't forbidden for a woman to be a soldier, but my father would likely oppose the idea. As an illegitimate child who has never been favored, this is all I can do." Of course, I wanted to learn, but being a soldier for the empire? I would only do it if it was the only way to ruin them all. A little lie wouldn't hurt, right?
"You can trust me, young miss. I see your dedication more than in other warriors I've known. I'll keep this secret for as long as you want. I can even help you sometimes."
Frederick Kingsley
Oh dear friend, Evylenne, your child has grown into a brave woman. For all the mistakes I made in the past, I know this little help won't balance my sins.
I saw her nervousness before, but the glint of her true nature couldn't be hidden. She is truly her child. If I could only break free from this curse, I would give my life to keep her safe for her mother's sake, but right now that's not something I can fulfill.
With her talent, she is not easy to destroy. I watched her movements silently for a while before showing myself. She had been observing the training and could somehow follow and apply it. If I'm not mistaken, she could improve quickly—in a month or even weeks, more than an ordinary person could. As a Kingsley, it would be my pride to teach her, even if it goes against the emperor's orders.
Elara Silverbane
I was astonished. Am I hearing that correctly? The help is provided by the warlord. Just joking, this is plenty. Everything occurring in my life feels like a true miracle to me. Naturally, since life has never been on my side in the past. Is it due to my decision to be weak and not defend myself when I had the opportunity?
"If you are genuine with your promises, then I'm unsure how to express my gratitude at this moment, sir." I am truly thankful to be one of your students, which is still quite hard to believe even at this moment. I bow with my right hand over my heart, demonstrating my true gratitude. This is an opportunity to reach for the moon. Something that won't occur if I disregard this now.
I did locate someone to help enhance my physical abilities, and I hope the previous man isn't deceiving me about finding a great magician, or I will definitely track him down. Those who destroyed my trust hinder my plan.