Chapter 48

The chaotic tea party had ended, and night had fallen. The red-haired knight, Pio, searched the area around the source of the Living Mail but did not achieve the expected results. At least, no other Living Mails were found in the vicinity, so Caries decided to stay at Mayor Thomas's house.

Originally, they were supposed to stay one night and then immediately set off for the capital, which was considered the safest place, with Lord Giral. However, considering the situation where they were attacked by a dragon and the Living Mail, Lord Giral decided to return to the capital first, increase the security, and then come to pick up Caries. The current security would continue with the current number of people, but Reni and Samue would also join. This was judged to be safe.

Currently, staying at Thomas's house are Reni, Samue, Caries, Pio, three maids, and the security guards. Thomas accepted this with a smile, and Lord Giral left Reoliga City immediately after the Living Mail incident.

"Today was quite eventful..."

Caries had already prepared for bed and was lying in bed. In her hand, she held a golden, round bell—the "Bell of Perception" given to her by Reni. She shifted from lying on her back to her side and gently opened her hand.

"...So cute."

Caries felt her cheeks relax. It was understandable; for Caries, this was the first time she had felt this way.

"Can I... call you a friend..."

There was no response to her muttered words. Before going to bed, she had talked with the maids, and they had told her that Reni was a friend, but Caries still lacked the confidence to believe it.

"So cute... so strong... so cool... To think that someone like that is my friend..."

She wondered if it was not bothersome. She worried if it was not a nuisance. What Caries was concerned about was whether her feelings would become a burden to Reni. The second princess, who was considered a troublesome person, felt that being a hindrance was the most painful thing.

"Would it have been better to stay in the capital..."

Originally, Caries was in the capital. She left the capital because her older brother, the first prince, was to undergo the ceremony to become the crown prince. The ceremony for the crown prince is grand, and the capital would be crowded with people, making the palace itself more active. This would make Caries's situation more dangerous. Additionally, high-ranking officials from other countries would attend the ceremony. Caries, as a member of the royal family, could participate, but she did not want any problems to arise. She did not want to be a hindrance to her brother. Her family repeatedly told her that they would strengthen security and that they did not think of her as a hindrance, but Caries chose to leave the capital.

However, as a result, she was attacked by a dragon and the Living Mail. Was her choice correct...? Caries furrowed her brow tightly.

"...I will do what I can."

She never had confidence in her choices. However, Caries had always encouraged herself with these words. Even if she was criticized for being disappointing, even if the person who criticized her smiled and flattered her in front of her, she always remained vigilant and maintained her dignity as a princess. She had also gained support from those who believed in her. However, there were only a few people she could trust, and she found herself isolating herself.

So—

"Reni..."

When she whispered that name, Caries's chest warmed. The frown on her forehead slowly relaxed.

"...I wouldn't have met you if I hadn't left the capital."

She had no confidence in her choices. But when she thought about it, she naturally felt that she had made a wonderful choice.

"...Reni"

She whispered it again. Her chest warmed once more.

"Reni"

She tightly gripped the bell she had received.

—It's good that we met.

"Reni"

Her golden, round eyes. Her silver hair swayed gently, and she chuckled. Imagining that smile, the anxiety in Caries's chest gradually disappeared—

"Tomorrow... what can we do to have fun..."

Reni would be with her until they left Reoliga City. She hoped they could have more fun during that time.

"Reni..."

She slowly closed her eyes. Feeling safe in the warmth of her chest, her consciousness gradually sank. The bell in her hand did not ring. Caries had her first good night's sleep in a long time.