Chapter 11

When I arrived at the stage, Lord Joshua greeted me with a beautiful smile that could make flowers bloom.

I'm scared. Is there something behind it?

"Thank you for the wonderful music, Your Grace."

Ah, he liked it. I'm glad.

"I'm delighted if you enjoyed it, My Lord. Most of them are beginners, but they worked hard."

Yes, everyone was a beginner.

But they had a heart for enjoying music.

That's why they followed this theory-defying performance.

Lord Joshua seems pleased, but the nobles who govern the land are not all the same.

I can clearly tell from the expressions of the people standing behind him.

"Please, allow me to introduce you. This is Arietty Et Smith, the priestess of the Etua Temple. Everyone, please applaud for her excellent guidance."

At Lord Joshua's introduction, the guests clapped politely.

Sure, sure.

They didn't like it. I'm sorry for that.

I was seated next to Lord Joshua and greeted the guests.

After that, I received greetings from the influential people of the territories one after another.

The wave of greetings would end in about an hour.

Ah, I'm hungry. My throat is dry.

I'm getting cold from sitting still.

Just as I thought this, warm tea and cake were served.

"You must be tired. Let's take a break. Please enjoy the cake. I hear you like sweet things."

Lord Joshua also looks tired. It shows on his face.

Sweet things help to relieve fatigue. Oh, it's delicious.

It's the castle's recipe. But I wanted to try the hot chocolate stand over there. I also want to eat that big marshmallow. I'm tired.

Compared to last year, the number of festival stalls has increased significantly.

Of course, it's different with a lord present.

Isn't it?

After all, there was a proxy. It's the difference in status.

While I was silently eating the cake, Lord Joshua spoke to me again.

"The festival is quite different from last year. I'm really glad you came."

Well, last year was so lifeless and lonely.

But the revival isn't due to me.

I just taught an encouraging song. The revival of the Carving territory is due to Lord Joshua's leadership.

When I answered, he looked at me with a sparkling gaze again.

Oh, it's blinding!

"I didn't have the chance to talk to you properly. I've been quite rude. I'm really sorry."

Oh, you were aware of your rudeness.

You've reflected on it. So, it's fine now.

It has improved a lot.

But I can't say that out loud.

"I'm the one who caused trouble, being naive and causing various inconveniences. Like at the ball at the palace the other day."

Lord Joshua tilted his head, wondering what I meant. When he does that, he looks like a beautiful young man of 20.

When I said I went to the ball in my priest's robes, he smiled wryly.

Hmm, he's still handsome. No matter what expression he makes, his beauty doesn't fade.

Impressive.

"I was the naive one. I should have asked to escort you properly. I'm sorry for not being considerate."

No, I don't need an escort. I might get stabbed.

"Your Grace."

When I was called, our eyes met.

Oh, my heart is racing.

When a handsome person makes eye contact, it's a heart-fluttering moment.

Cecilia, Tiabelze, and Romelia were like that too, but Lord Joshua's charm is quite powerful.

I'm glad I have a beauty resistance.

"I think we should talk more. Could you spare some time for that in the future?"

No? Do I need to?

It's probably just preparation for Lady Alicia's marriage.

Just do it on your own.

I thought this suddenly, so my response was delayed.

"Lord Arietty."

Huh? He called me by my name?

So familiar.

When a handsome person likes you, you can't help but feel happy.

Ugh, it's painful to be so easily swayed.

"In the fall, the Miko Princess's tour is scheduled. The people here, who have fallen into decline, are eagerly awaiting her visit. Please, lend me your strength."

Of course! I knew it!

I understand!

I have various thoughts about Lady Alicia, but it's work!

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Note: The translation aims to maintain the original tone and context, including the informal and conversational style of the text.