I was enjoying a peaceful afternoon in the garden, savoring a cup of warm tea and nibbling on my favorite treat—chocolate cake, moist and rich. Liza sat beside me on the cushioned bench, calmly immersed in a book. Tania stood nearby, ever-dutiful, holding a silver tray with additional tea and sweets in case we desired more.
The air was crisp and fresh. Birds chirped cheerfully in the trees, and the scent of blooming roses drifted on the breeze. Everything was serene... until—
"My lady, I must bring something to your attention," Tania said, her tone slightly strained.
I glanced up from my tea. "What is it?"
"I've noticed you never wear undergarments. No panties... no brassiere."
Her concern was palpable, her brows furrowed in motherly disapproval.
"I don't like wearing them," I replied casually, taking another sip.
"This is a matter of dignity, my lady," she insisted, clearly distressed. "It is unbefitting of a noblewoman—especially one as prominent as you."
I shrugged, unconcerned. "All my dresses are long enough. No one's going to peek under them."
"I don't wear them either," Liza chimed in without looking up from her book.
"Oh?" I turned to her with curiosity. "Why not?"
"I always forget to!" she answered brightly, flashing a grin.
That made me burst into laughter—loud, unrestrained. Liza laughed along with me, and the sound of our amusement echoed across the quiet garden.
Tania, meanwhile, stood rooted with a grim expression. "You're both far too carefree," she muttered under her breath.
---
A servant soon arrived to inform me that the blacksmith had come as requested.
In the receiving hall, I met with him personally. Kane stood beside me, arms folded, as always a portrait of discipline. On my other side was Liza, and Tania stood a step behind, observing quietly.
The blacksmith bowed and presented the completed mitrisil dagger—a beautiful piece, gleaming with deadly promise. I handed it to Liza as a gift.
"May it serve you well," I said.
"Thank you, my Lady," she replied, cradling the weapon with reverence.
Then, I laid out a new project. Unfurling a large scroll, I revealed the carefully drawn design of a revolver—something this world had never seen. I explained each part, every mechanism, and the materials required. I also detailed how to forge the bullets, emphasizing the importance of coating them with silver.
The blacksmith examined the blueprint with a look of awe and intrigue.
"It's possible," he said finally, "but complex. It may take three to four months."
"I can wait," I replied. "Begin at once. Full payment upon delivery."
He bowed again, gratefully accepting a pouch of gold before departing with the plans in hand.
---
Later, in my private office, Kane stood before my desk holding a folder.
"The adoption papers are finalized," he reported. "Liza will now be registered as Liza Esklair in the official family registry. The Royal Palace will be notified shortly."
I exhaled, a sense of calm settling over me. I leaned back in my chair and sipped from a goblet of blood wine, the taste grounding me.
Now I wouldn't have to explain Liza's presence to curious nobles or gossip-hungry courtiers. Her name and place beside me were officially secured.
I turned my gaze to her. She sat on the plush rug, gently petting the grey cat she'd adopted, her eyes warm and calm.
"Liza," I called softly. "You are now Liza Esklair."
She looked up and smiled. "Yes, my lady."
I returned her smile, more gently this time. "Call me Ella from now on."
"Yes, Ella," she said with quiet joy.
---
The next day.
It was finally time to depart for Count Levantes's estate in the distant territory of Prereia. A debut party—how tedious. But refusing an invitation from a count was not an option.
Our carriage convoy was prepared. I brought only two maids: Tania, ever by my side, and Merisa, who would now serve as Liza's personal maid. Liza, naturally, was coming with me.
We were accompanied by ten personal guards in uniform, all disciplined and battle-ready.
Kane would remain behind to manage the estate during my absence. As always, I trusted him completely.
I stood near the carriage, watching the hustle of loading trunks and preparations.
Twenty hours by road... I sighed to myself.
I could simply run the distance with vampiric speed. I'd arrive in just a few hours... but showing up at a noble's estate, covered in dust and sweat, dressed like a runaway rogue?
They'd panic. They'd whisper.
No, appearances must be maintained.
"Haaa... I'll endure it," I muttered under my breath.
And with that, I stepped into the carriage.
Off to dance in the masquerade of nobility.