The Villainess Has Proposed a Contract Marriage

26 – Virtues of a Wife

Current time: 2:00 PM.

We gathered in front of the Duke’s mansion entrance to depart for the imperial palace, and the situation was peculiar.

While it was expected that Tina and Glen would remain, an unexpected figure had fallen behind on the opposite side.

Duke Cardy Luminel.

“Have a safe trip, son-in-law. Take good care of my daughter’s escort.”

“Excuse me, but won’t you be attending, Your Grace?”

“Hmm.”

He nodded lightly.

It was strange for someone of imperial nobility not to attend the palace ball. Perhaps aware of my thoughts, Elphesia whispered to me, lowering her voice.

“My father never sets foot at events attended by the pontiff.”

“Why… why is that?”

“Well, I don’t really know the reason for that.”

“It’s odd.”

I often encountered His Holiness the Pontiff. Because of that, I knew he was a possessor of a somewhat relaxed temperament. Due to his unassuming nature, devoid of any imposing presence, there was hardly anyone who found him disagreeable.

‘I’ve never been particularly curious about the relationship between His Holiness and the duke…’

If I don’t know, the saintess probably doesn’t either. Perhaps there is some kind of connection known only to the two of them.

At that moment, Elphesia let out a soft sigh.

“Oh. Come to think of it, there might be something related.”

“What is it?”

“My mother is of priestly descent. However, being a low-ranking priestess, she probably never had the chance to meet the pontiff… It’s still a mystery.”

“Your mother is from a priestly background… That explains why Elphesia seems so kind.”

“What…!”

Smack!

In front of everyone, Elphesia struck me on the back of my neck. Her spicy touch made me flinch, causing me to lose my balance and collapse.

“It hurts, Elphesia.”

“You brought up something inappropriate. It’s done, so leave quickly.”

“Uh… okay.”

Me, Elphesia, and Yurian stepped out of the duke’s mansion. Then we heard greetings from behind, Tina and Glen.

“Goodbye, Dad! Mom!”

“Have a great time, both of you!”

I replied to the children’s greetings with a smile and waved my hand. On the other hand, Elphesia simply replied, “Yeah,” and walked on indifferently.

“Yurian.”

“What?”

“How does it feel to have escaped?”

“It’s the worst. I can’t believe I have to face that bastard of a father.”

It seemed that the emotional rift between Yurian and the emperor was deep and wide. I became curious and asked Yurian.

“Yurian, what kind of person is the emperor?”

“I could give you various insults, but that wouldn’t be the answer the headmaster wants.”

Yurian half grumbled and came to a conclusion on his own. Then he gave an answer that tried to be as objective as possible.

“The emperor is not human.”

“If he’s not human, then what is he?”

“You’ll find out as soon as you see him. Since the deputy headmaster doesn’t make any comments, it means he agrees to some extent.”

When Yurian pulled Elphesia in, she nodded her head without saying a word, as if agreeing.

I became more and more curious about the emperor.

Although I was supposed to be the guardian knight of the saint, I had never been involved with the emperor whenever I performed my duties outside.

It was definitely a subtle discrepancy even though it was an event attended by the emperor.

In addition, the fact that the emperor had extremely little interest in the temple played a part.

‘Back then, I didn’t have any curiosity about the outside world… I never even thought about looking for it.’

If I had known it would turn out like this, I should have shown some interest.

It’s probably a pointless assumption.

And so, endlessly, we advanced toward the heart of the empire where the emperor resided.

◇

On National Foundation Day, the imperial palace extends the utmost consideration to the invited guests. For instance, even if they were usually just guests, today they could go anywhere as long as they didn’t violate any prohibitions.

Among the places, the most popular was the large glass conservatory.

Not only was there the enjoyment of observing exotic plants, but the landscaping itself was so beautiful that there was much to see. Moreover, the space was well-organized for tea time, making it a perfect place to wait for the opening.

Elphesia and I had reached the entrance of the glass conservatory. As we wandered around alone like this, the empty seats in the conservatory became awkward.

The owner of the conservatory could only be encountered after returning to his palace after the start of the ball.

“Do you think he’s being mistreated by the servants?”

“The prince who carries Luminele Duchy on his back? If he swelled his head that much, it’s a sickness. By now, he’s probably discussing various matters with Arwel Court Encyclopedia.”

“Oh, he’s in the palace too. Come to think of it, he’s a courtier, of course.”

It was Yurian, who used to look like such a child in the orphanage. Now that he had been returned to the palace, anxiety piled up as if leaving a child by the river.

Well, I’ve truly become quite the protector.

“I guess what to worry about now isn’t Yurian.”

“My situation is not so simple either. Whatever.”

“I’ll handle the rest, but the temple’s intentions are an exception. You, please stay strong in that regard.”

“Oh, so does that mean Elphesia will handle everything until we enter the conservatory?”

Elphesia didn’t even blink at my playful question.

“What are you asking? It’s the husband’s duty to protect the companion’s body, but it’s the wife’s responsibility to safeguard the soul.”

“Indeed, I’ve encountered the most reliable wife in the world.”

“Hmph, any complaints?”

“The only complaint is the side slit of the dress.”

“Bear with it.”

Elysia’s demand was confidently stated. I, feeling overwhelmed, opened the door to the Yurion Conservatory, unable to articulate my words properly.

Clang!

The moment we stepped in, warmth enveloped us like a gust of wind. It was as warm as meticulously maintained for landscaping.

However, instead of the scent of wood and flowers, a pungent perfume odor lingered, leaving a different impression. The fragrance was so intense that one could speculate it was sprayed due to skipping a bath. It seemed like she was scattering her scent generously in this spacious conservatory.

“Well, there’s already no corner that doesn’t please my taste.”

From afar, a slender gentleman, pretending to organize his cravat, sent a glance in our direction. More precisely, he was observing the thigh line visible from under Elysia’s skirt.

I immediately changed the escort direction, placing my arm around Elysia’s left side. I sincerely felt relieved since there was no exposed part on the right hem.

“… Shall we go out, Elysia?”

“That’s not possible. We’ll encounter the attendees later at the ball. It’s less troublesome to press them in advance.”

“How do you plan to press them?”

“There’s no need to press those who close their mouths just by looking at us. But fools with cheap tongues are a different story. Once you match their wits, there’s nothing to fear.”

I became curious once again. Even though the social circle might be like that, how could someone dare gossip about a direct descendant of a duke, let alone a marquis?

Especially when it’s not even a prominent family.

“Hey, we won’t forgive those who pick fights in the name of the duke! … Can’t you respond in a similar manner?”

“Usually, it’s not impossible. Even for a mere viscount, ruining a business is nothing difficult.”

“Is the Luminal Duchy influential?”

“Yes. As a family built more on force than business, there aren’t many weapons to hinder other families.”

“I see…”

It’s not easy to start a territorial dispute just because of a little argument. In this regard, the duchy’s name shows its own vulnerability.

However, Elphicia adds, “Even if it’s possible, we won’t do it now.”

“Why?”

“Someone said so. It’s pitiful for people to lose their jobs due to a feud between superiors, without even knowing the reasons.”

“That’s a noble sentiment. Who said that?”

“Well, it might be surprisingly close.”

Elphicia muttered as if sighing.

Meanwhile, I looked around nervously at the mention of someone surprisingly close. The problem is that every time this happens, she ridicules it as if watching a ridiculous play.

As the frustrating attitude of the whimsical Elphicia intensifies.

A crowd, not distinguishing between men and women, is gradually narrowing the gap with us.

Eventually, as the crowd reaches our vicinity, one of them greets us first.

“It’s been a while. Nice to see you, madam.”

“Indeed, it’s been a while, Lady Luminal.”

Madam and Lady Luminal.

Each caller addresses Elphicia differently. They were reminding everyone that she married a commoner with no notable lineage.

In other words, they were mocking her ambiguous position of not knowing how to be addressed.

Elphicia smiled as if she were painting a picture.

“Call me whatever you like. I am not a person who seeks flattery.”

Despite their mocking, she sensed a hint of surprise in their expressions.

“I have heard of your reputation, my lady. Not only are you the top student at the Academy, but you also possess all the virtues of a lady. But I wonder why you have failed to fulfill the most important virtue.”

He was a young marquis who had recently inherited his title. He had the audacity to speak bluntly without considering Elphicia’s status as a lady.

“The most important virtue, you say?”

“Isn’t it to marry and become a support to your family?”

“Well, it seems that the marquis knows only one thing and is ignorant of the rest.”

Elphicia remained composed.

“My husband, in just one night, resolved an illegal auction that had been troubling the palace officials. He not only became the guardian of the neglected Third Prince but also acted as a shield. He is now a pillar of support for public security and the national treasury, and a respected figure who cares for the peace of the imperial family.”

“Such sophistry!”

“The empire’s affairs are the same as the affairs of the royal family. It is the duty of a loyal family to bring honor to their name… Does the marquis have a different opinion?”

“…”

The marquis had transformed into someone who prioritized his own well-being over that of the royal family. It seemed that he couldn’t find a quick counterargument, so he remained silent, avoiding Elphicia’s gaze.

After a moment, as if replacing the marquis, another young noblewoman spoke up.

“Lady Elphicia’s words are excessive. We are here to enjoy a pleasant gathering. Is there a need to cause unnecessary disturbance?”

“The role of a marquis has always been to quell disturbances. My husband has been consistent in this regard. Unlike your cousin, Aurabi, who has been causing trouble for the empire.”

“W-why is that being brought up here!?”

Later, it was said that this noblewoman had previously criticized Elphicia in the same way. In fact, she was the younger cousin who had caused trouble for the family due to her involvement in the illegal auction.

Furthermore, the other members of the group had all suffered embarrassment at the hands of Elphicia.

For instance, she ignored entanglements or unilaterally rejected efforts to become closer. It seemed like various past misfortunes were intertwined.

Afterwards, the relentless pursuit continued.

“How does the lady view her husband?”

“Do I really need to say? It’s awkward when these charming ladies gather; I feel sorry for listing my husband’s virtues. Comparing my relationship with Youngyun to my husband is embarrassing.”

“Some people can’t help but speak.”

“Well, I might have to speak to break your prejudice.”

At this point, I expected her to skillfully dodge. Until Elficia slowly nodded, reciting as if she were in love.

“Yi is a former knight, so his physique is quite sturdy. It’s beyond delightful to admire. Not only that, everything we do together feels like a first for me. Most women probably don’t know what it’s like to have such a pure and sincere man by their side. There’s no detection device, so there’s no way to know where the mischief happened.”

“… That’s really enviable… Ugh!”

In an instant, Yeongae, who had been eavesdropping on Elficia’s bragging, belatedly realized her mistake and closed her mouth.

… Even I, who was listening in, felt embarrassed and looked down at the ground.

My face must have turned red. As expected, it was noticeable enough even for a fool…

While I was suffering like this, one of the horned Yeongae spat out a statement close to a personal attack.

“Well, having fun with your husband’s support? I heard you’re living in a so-called mansion, but you’re both penniless!”

“I have to admit it. I don’t know the fun of supporting a husband. Instead, the fun of being supported was overwhelming. Yeongae, hope you enjoy the fun I don’t know.”

“…”

Did I support a husband?

Until yesterday, I was always on the receiving end, which was embarrassing.

Perhaps it was just an argument. After all, Elficia laying out my virtues resembled the beginning of a fantasy novel.

On the other hand, Elficia, who was as unruffled as a speck of dust, brought about a long silence. Only then, as if crossing a gate, Elficia gracefully smiled and signaled to me.

For a while, I thought it would be a continuation of our time alone…

“Um… Can we talk for a moment?”

“We have some questions for you…”

“There’s something I’d like to consult with the Lady, so please give us a chance to talk! It would be even better if the Holy Knight is with us.”

Surprisingly, there seemed to be a category of people who had a favorable impression of us.

We willingly did not refuse to engage with them.

At the same time, I engraved a lesson in my heart today.

“Let’s not fight with Elphicia… never.”

Having my hair pulled and my back slapped would be painful, but hitting with words would hurt even more.

I was fortunate that she was on my side.

◇

At that moment – Duke Luminele.

Cardi Luminele gazed out the window at the towering palace. Watching the palace alone from the mansion was Cardi’s routine every founding day.

The restraints brought about by the recklessness of his youth imposed limitations on his intellect. Ironically, the one who imposed the restraint probably remained forgotten.

Then, the voice of an innocent girl intruded into Cardi’s contemplation.

“Grandpa!”

Glancing at Tina, who had intruded into his thoughts, Cardi replied casually.

“You came.”

Beside his granddaughter, there was also the boy who had caught his attention for a while.

“Oh, hello… Duke.”

Glen bowed slightly. Cardi, reciprocating the greeting, absentmindedly stroked his chin.

‘The descendant of Vaskhill, whom I brought to ruin with my own hands. What a peculiar chain of cause and effect.’

As accustomed to criticism as Cardi was, it had been a long time since Glen’s critique had any effect.

‘Good skeletal structure. In terms of aptitude alone, he surpasses the third prince. If he becomes a knight, he’ll rise to a significant position.’

A talent from the half-dragon lineage and royal blood.

Even Harthe’s ordinary children, no different from the extras, had no shortcomings whatsoever. Sending his daughter off in marriage was, without a doubt, a beneficial move.

‘Wealth is something that comes and goes. Ultimately, what matters at the end is the essence of being human.’

How to make use of these resources wisely.

No, constructive considerations are good, but let’s establish priorities first.

Before planning for the future…

“Snacks. Bring snacks.”

…it’s about growing up healthy.

Regardless, a healthy body is essential for planning ahead.

“Grandfather, what snacks should I bring?”

“Strawberry cake and lemon madeleines. And there should be scones and macarons. What do you fancy?”

“Uh… anything is fine!”

“Good. Bring them all!”

“Oh, thank you, Grandfather!”

Ugh, what’s there to be so thankful for in a topic nurtured as an asset?

Moreover, that royal fellow is just lingering without any vigor.

“What do you like?”

“Um, I like anything. Your Grace…”

In response to Glen’s demand, Cardi shouted once again, “Tell the chef to bring anything he’s confident in!”

“Y-Your Grace…?”

“If you’re a man, don’t cower. It’s like facing an enemy; dazzle them with your eyes.”

“…!”

Glen’s eyes flashed for a moment.

Cardi felt a surge of unease, wondering if Glen had figured out his identity. However, Cardi didn’t say anything more, and Glen soon let out a relieved sigh.

Tina, who was completely unaware of the tension, innocently approached Cardi.

“Grandpa, why don’t you go with Dad and Mom?”

“We promised not to meet.”

“With whom?”

“You wouldn’t know.”

“Oh…”

“Hmm.”

Cardi gently stroked Tina’s disappointed head. Then, Tina quickly relaxed, enveloped in a feeling of drowsiness as if some magic had been cast.

At the moment Tina’s eyes were about to gently close, Cardi asked succinctly, “Why?”

“Do you want to go?”

The eyes of the granddaughter, which had been endlessly cloudy, suddenly opened wide.