Chapter 61: Luke's Father
As the sun neared its zenith, Mia walked through the streets of Gilbadia, her head slightly bowed.
The city was bustling with energy, with people bustling about in every corner.
For Claude, who ruled this land, the people were nothing more than tools to enhance his own reputation and power.
He wouldnt allow his pride to be questioned by the king or other nobles, doubting his abilities as a lord.
Hence, there was a kindness in this land that seemed to willingly embrace subjugation, like being immersed in sweet nectar.
What mattered most to the people was whether their lives were prosperous, regardless of the reasons behind it.
Its a nice city.
Everyone seemed to be busy, sweating and working hard. However, their eyes sparkled with determination.
They were living their lives to the fullest by their own will. In contrast, Mia couldnt help but ponder her own situation.
Last night, she had been severely scolded by her parents, and not without good reason.
She had come to Gilbadia alone without informing them beforehand. Naturally, this unexpected visit tarnished the reputation of the Lennox family.
It was an unbecoming act for the third daughter of the esteemed Counts household. Being reprimanded was inevitable.
Why did I?
Before she knew it, Mia found herself standing in front of the Gilbert estatea magnificent mansion that overwhelmed the eyes of the bewilders.
She was about to turn back immediately but hesitated.
Deep down, she knew the truth.
She wanted to see Luke.
And, if possible, she wanted to find solace in him. She wanted him to acknowledge her and tell her that she was the one in the right.
(I really hate it)
Mia despised her own weak self for harboring such indulgent desires.
What am I doing I should go back
Wait, Mia Klein Lennox.
Her body jolted as if her heart had been seized by an eagles talons.
Someone had called out to her. Recognizing this, Mia immediately turned around.
Duke Gilbert
There stood Lukes father, Claude.
Their eyes met. With just that, Mia couldnt help but shrink back.
(As expected of Lukes father.)
Eyes that seemed to see through everything.
They were undoubtedly like Lukes eyes.
What are you doing here?
I-Im sorry. I was just passing by
I see. Since youre here, come with me.
Huh? T-thats not necessary
You wouldnt refuse, would you?
Y-yes Thank you for having me
Mia had no choice.
It was awkward.
Now, in the room they were guided to, there were only Claude and Mia. The awkwardness was so palpable that Mia couldnt even taste the tea.
You seem lacking in self-confidence. Why is that?
However, that silence was broken.
Claudes words struck Mias heart.
They hit the nail on the head.
She stumbled over her words. But Claude didnt rush her.
I I often lose sight of whats around me. As a result, I end up going in circles and causing trouble for others. This time too, Ive caused a great inconvenience to the Duke. Im truly sorry
Mia apologized.
For selfishly visiting the Gilbert estate without any prior notice.
Hmm
Mia, still looking down, glanced at Claude from time to time, trying to gauge his demeanor.
Let me tell you something that I alone dont possess.
Huh?
It was a response that Mia couldnt have anticipated.
However, as if he didnt care about her confusion, Claude continued speaking.
Its attribute. My magical power doesnt possess any attribute. Kuku, in my younger days, it bothered me quite a bit. Why doesnt my magical power have an attribute? Even without an attribute, ordinary mages are no match for me, though.
At that moment, Mia remembered.
She had almost forgotten due to Lukes overwhelming presence, but the Gilbert family hadnt been blessed with an attribute for several generations.
But look at you. You possess not just one, but three attributes that I lack. Be proud of that.
Ah
Mia finally understood.
She didnt know the reason, but Claude was encouraging her.
Above all, Luke chose you. That alone is reason enough for me to acknowledge you.
Thank you very much.
Just a little while ago, when their eyes briefly met.
Claude had almost accurately seen through Mias innermost thoughts. His words held no falsehood. Of course, it wasnt without calculation that stabilizing Mias state of mind would ultimately benefit Luke.
(Kuku Luke, like me, has a keen eye for women. Despite being a bit clumsy.)
Mias pure and genuine personality was something that Claude found favorable.
And this thought also manifested as an expression of his love for Julia, whom he had chosen as his wife. Like Luke, he rarely displayed it openly.
Well then, lets wrap up the conversation here. You came to see Luke, didnt you?
Ah! Um, well yes, thats right.
Then let me guide you right away.
Thank you very much!
Mia expressed her heartfelt gratitude and bowed her head.
Her heart became slightly brighter, and she was able to look forward a little more.
However, approximately one minute later, when Mia arrived at Lukes room, she would be greeted by Alice in her naked form, and she would be thrown into a strong sense of dj vu. But at this moment, she had no way of knowing what it was.
And she had no way of knowing that this day would become a special day for her.
Several luxurious carriages raced across the meadow.
Their appearance was so splendid that anyone who laid eyes on them would feel awe-inspiring. However, considering that the occupants inside were among the noblest individuals in the country, the security was surprisingly lax.
Haha! Im so excited to see Luke after such a long time!
..I want to go back.
Huh? Did you say something, Edmund?
No, its nothing.
Porupon, the second prince of the Kingdom of Myrstia.
Edmund, the secretary sitting next to him, imagined the future in which he would face disasters and endure tremendous hardships.
Then, he felt a pang in his stomach.
(Haah, I really came without saying anything to the king What am I going to do, seriously?)
Feeling the pleasant swaying of the carriage, Edmund responded with a resigned smile as he listened to Porupons words, who seemed genuinely happy.