𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 ~ 𝐑𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐳𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐬 ~
“Thor, do you really have no interest in any girls? Like someone you find cute?”
“None! Nee-sama is the best in the world!”
“Hmm, thank you.”
ㅤ
Debating whether to genuinely say thank you or not.
Thor, who is always on guard, seems a bit relaxed now. His friends left, saying, “This Thor is a rare sight. Next time we visit, please make fried chicken!” They’re kids who have come over a few times and always manage to calm Thor down. They must be trying not to burden me.
As I looked up, thinking to get a drink, the atmosphere suddenly darkened.
ㅤ
“Miss Norchev, you look exceptionally beautiful today.”
“Rolf-sama! Good evening. You’re looking dashing yourself.”
“Thanks for helping Edgardo earlier. He was down, so please support him again sometime.”
“Yes.”
“Nee-sama, who is this gentleman?”
ㅤ
Though he’s not showing the demonic face from before, Thor stands defensively in front of me. Rolf narrows his eyes pleasantly, not minding Thor’s attitude.
Rolf moves closer to Thor and whispers something.
ㅤ
“Miss Norchev prepares delicious meals for me every day.”
“Then, you are. . .!”
“I shouldn’t really be saying this. Could you keep it a secret from our parents?”
“Y, Yes.”
“Good kid.”
ㅤ
Rolf winks and his tied-up red hair glistens. It’s amazing how Rolf can flirt even when faced with Thor.
ㅤ
“I brought this because it tasted good. My lady, would you accept it?”
“Fufu, thank you.”
“This one is also recommended. Uh—”
“It’s Thor. Thor Norchev.”
“Thor, sorry for the late introduction. I’m Rolf Ouldra.”
ㅤ
The juice that Rolf brought is thick and sweet-sour, really tasty. Turns out, it’s a non-alcoholic cocktail of pomegranate and berries. I should try making it at home next time.
ㅤ
“I truly owe a lot to Miss Norchev. Having a delicious meal prepared makes my day. She even makes dessert. That’s not common in other knight orders.”
“Absolutely! Nee-sama is truly wonderful!”
“Plus, I often hear her talk about Thor. She says he’s a proud younger brother. You even helped with making curry powder, right? It’s really tasty. People sprinkle it all the time.”
“That’s because Nee-sama needed curry powder. . . I love Nee-sama’s curry.”
“I love it too! It’s delicious! I’ve started to think medium-spicy lets you enjoy the spices the best.”
“That’s the correct answer. Nee-sama adjusts the spiciness to suit each family member when she makes curry!”
“Miss Norchev loves her family, so of course, Thor is special.”
“Yes!”
ㅤ
Rolf masterfully ingratiates himself into Thor’s good graces. He skillfully glosses over the important points while praising my work, and Thor listens with shining eyes.
ㅤ
“Nee-sama! Rolf-sama is a great person!”
“Thor, if you’re ever tempted to buy pottery or paintings, consult with Nee-sama first.”
“Understood!”
ㅤ
While enjoying their meal that Rolf had ordered from the waiter, the three of them have a lively conversation. Since Edgardo is not around, Rolf, not having to prioritize Edgardo, has prepared multiple entertaining topics, making the conversation flow smoothly.
ㅤ
“The herbs we grow on our estate are also used in the royal palace. The slightly chilly climate throughout the year seems to be ideal. Edgardo’s place grows the same herbs, but when it comes to selling them, his household isn’t well-versed in that area. So we handle the sales together.”
“That must be wonderful. I’d like to visit sometime. I’ve never been outside the capital.”
“Miss Norchev would be most welcome, and Thor, of course! I’d like to host you at home, but I’m in a somewhat awkward position there.”
“In that case, let’s go secretly. A covert trip.”
“Sounds great! We can buy herbs and make herb tea. I’ll prepare it for Nee-sama!”
“Thank you, Thor. That’s very kind! Let’s drink it together.”
“Yes! Rolf-sama will join us as well!”
“Haha, I’d be delighted. Truly.”
ㅤ
Rolf gently pats Thor’s head, his expression softening.
ㅤ
“Thor, I’m sorry, but there’s someone I want Miss Norchev to meet. I’ll make sure she’s escorted safely. Can I get permission to take the princess out?”
“If Nee-sama says it’s fine, then it’s fine.”
“Thor, Nee-sama will be back soon, so don’t get into the state you were in earlier. You’re reaching an age where it wouldn’t be strange for you to greet dad, right?”
“. . .Yes. I’ll find mom and go to the lounge. Nee-sama, if you encounter any strange men, knee them in the groin and run away!”
“Of course. Leave it to Nee-sama!”
ㅤ
Parting from Thor, led by a slightly hurried Rolf, they weave through the gaps between people. Rolf, looking a bit tense, exits the hall once, enters from a different entrance, and finally reaches a less crowded balcony.
ㅤ
“It seems he hasn’t arrived yet. Would you mind waiting on the balcony for a bit?”
“Yes.”
ㅤ
As she steps alone onto the balcony, the double glass doors are closed behind her. Thin, almost translucent white curtains ripple down, scattering light. This is a signal indicating that someone is on the balcony and doesn’t wish to be approached. It’s often used during trysts.
Just as she was about to call for Rolf, a deep and silky voice spoke.
ㅤ
“. . .You must be Alice・Miss Norchev.”
ㅤ
Reflected through the curtain’s shimmer, silvery strands that glow like the moon under the night sky. The royal blue formal attire, allowed only to those of royal blood. Deep blue eyes.
ㅤ
“The royal prince. . .?”
ㅤ
The name that slipped from her mouth was, most likely, not a mistake.
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