Chapter 54

It's a bit short.

As Alvis left the party, the headmaster and others also temporarily left their seats. Elina, confirming this, let out a sigh of relief, knowing that the party was nearing its end. It’s almost over. The party will end peacefully. She was not the only one who felt relieved by this.

It was known in advance that Alvis would not be able to stay until the end. While it is an honor for the noble daughters and sons to have the crown prince present and standing in the same place, it also brings a sense of tension from being watched. Thus, it was decided that he would leave near the end.

"Has your brother returned?"

"Yes, that's right."

On the other hand, Lanaris, who had been chatting with her, had a troubled look on her face. She seemed disappointed that Alvis had left.

Elina doesn't know much about the family affairs of the Belfias family, but she knows that Lanaris and Alvis, being full siblings, are very close. Although they are both in the capital and enrolled in the academy, it's fair to say that the opportunities for Alvis, who usually stays in the royal castle, and Lanaris to meet are few. It's only when Lanaris returns to the Belfias family's mansion in the capital that Alvis might visit. From what Elina has heard, there hasn't been a report of Alvis visiting the family mansion in the past year. It must have been a long time since they last saw each other, and the sadness was evident in Lanaris's demeanor.

"Lanaris-sama"

"I envy you, Elina-sama"

"Huh?"

Lanaris smiled sadly. Her profile somewhat resembled Alvis, and Elina was captivated by it.

"Alvis-ni-sama had no intention of getting married. So, I thought that by entering the academy, I would be closer to him than before. I always thought that he would be my escort."

She seemed to have thought that he would accompany her even in situations like this, where an escort was needed. Lanaris has no fiancé. Therefore, she would ask a family member to be her escort. Alvis, being her brother, would have gladly accepted.

"That—"

"Elina-sama"

Lanaris called out Elina's name, interrupting her words. Although it was a rude act for a junior and a noble lady, Elina did not point it out and faced Lanaris.

"Please take good care of Alvis-ni-sama"

"Lanaris-sama"

"Alvis-ni-sama is a kind person. But, in the past... there was a time when his smile was very frightening, especially towards the nobles, including Father."

"..."

Elina couldn't understand what Lanaris was talking about. However, she felt that she shouldn't interrupt and listened silently. There was no one around, and it seemed that no one was listening. Lanaris probably knew this and was speaking.

"I don't know what happened to Alvis-ni-sama. Ed might know, but I doubt he would tell me. I am just his sister. But, Elina-sama..."

"Me?"

"Yes. Elina-sama cherishes Alvis-ni-sama, don't you?"

Elina nodded, trying to suppress the blush that threatened to appear. There is still much she doesn't know. But even so, Elina cares for Alvis.

Seeing this, Lanaris smiled happily. Her face also resembled Alvis's. Despite being siblings of different genders and ages, they look so much alike. Alvis must have been as cute as a girl when he was young.

"I can tell that Alvis-ni-sama also cherishes you. So, please stay by his side always from now on."

"Yes, of course."

"Thank you, my sister-in-law."

The next chapter is also planned to be a casual conversation.