Chapter 5

Finally, I spent the last possible moment before my academy enrollment in the Baltsline territory.

Anyway, Baltsline was so comfortable and suited me well.

Moreover, I probably trained much harder there than I would have in the capital.

Well, it was more about 'magical training' since I was at an age where it was hard to say my body was fully developed.

Still, watching the tough warriors in actual combat and training based on their expertise made me stronger.

Of course, I didn't intend to focus solely on physical strength.

I was actually better at academics, so I studied hard.

However, the widely known principles of estate management might not align well with the situation in Baltsline.

During my time at the academy, I plan to make efforts to contribute to Baltsline.

The Royal Academy also has connections to research laboratories that are open to graduates.

I should make use of those connections.

"It's been a while, hasn't it?"

I returned to the Steizen Duke's mansion in the capital.

I will complete the final preparations for my academy enrollment and attend the academy for three years from here.

I entered the mansion I hadn't seen in half a year.

Father is currently at the palace, so I planned to go straight to my room.

"…You're back, Angelina."

"Brother Carlos, are you here to welcome me?"

"…Of course not."

Well, it's not entirely impossible. Brother has been particularly hostile towards me for about two years.

I don't know what makes him act that way. It's been half a year since I last returned, but he's still the same.

"…Just behave yourself at the academy, Angelina."

"Excuse me?"

"Understand the responsibility you should take and avoid disgracing the family."

What's with this sudden lecture? He's the complete opposite of Ash, who, despite being older, exudes youth.

Actually, he's the complete opposite. Brother looks unhealthy. I wish he would take more after Ash.

And I think of him.

Even though we're apart, just a little, I already want to see him again. I guess I'm just a girl of a certain age...

But I am now Ash's official fiancée. He is not the type to betray people.

So, he will wait for my graduation in Baltsline.

"Brother Carlos, I think you should eat more."

"…What?"

"Looking so thin. Men should be more robust, you know."

"…What are you talking about?"

Brother Carlos looked taken aback. Heh. I've never seen that expression before.

"I don't understand what you mean by 'behave yourself.' I have things I want to do. My engagement has been decided, and I want to bring my own achievements when I graduate and move to Baltsline in three years. I will use my time at the academy for that."

Brother's expression tightened, and he glared at me.

"…You decided the engagement on your own, didn't you?"

"On my own? No, I was entrusted by Father and took responsibility for the decision."

I followed the proper procedures, and even though it was through a letter, I received Father's permission again.

Father also needed the information for his dealings with the royal family.

"…Can't you even see the role you're supposed to play?"

"My role, you say?"

"Yes. You should have been Prince Leonhardt's fiancée."

"…Didn't that get rejected before?"

I wish you wouldn't change your mind so easily.

"You should have made an effort to change. This time, to be worthy of Prince Leonhardt."

This time?

"Then…"

"Then what?"

"…Never mind."

"I don't understand at all. Are you tired, Brother?"

Brother Carlos, did you want to see me and the Prince together? You were quite harsh in your criticism of me.

But even if you say that now, it's too late. It's already too late.

Because my heart is already set on Baltsline.

"…Take care of yourself, Brother Carlos."

You must be feeling unwell.

I offered my words of concern and decided to return to my room quickly.