"I'm so sorry for springing this on you so suddenly, Lydia."
The Duchess of Maysfield exclaimed to Lydia during their afternoon tea.
The Duchess of Maysfield was an elegant old lady who, for some reasons unknown, adored Edgar, and she treated him as if he was her own grandson.
Not long after Edgar had arrived at England, everyone had thought that he had purposely curried the Duchess' favor to showcase his status as an Earl in the social world. However, since Edgar had also treated the Duchess like family, everyone wouldn't think that the Duchess was being used."
Of course, this may also be because of Edgar's flirtatious ways.
The Duchess of Maysfield had already decided to appoint herself as Lydia and Edgar's guardian, even before Lydia and Edgar, who had clearly expressed his love for her, had spoken their vows.
Because of this, Lydia was to stay at the Duchess' manor for only three days to learn the social etiquette of a noble lady.
"I have not taught you anything, yet I'm sending you off to somewhere you are unfamiliar with…"
"No, it's fine. I was to be sent there in a week's time anyways."
Lydia had already planned in advance that she was to travel to another noble woman's manor with the Duchess of Maysfield next week. Due to the fact that Countess Othred was well known for teaching young noble ladies social etiquette, the Duchess of Maysfield had planned on letting Lydia stay with the Countess for a short period of time.
However, the Duchess had just received word of her eldest daughter's sickness this morning, so she has to pay her a visit.
They weren't sure when the Duchess would return to London, and Lydia's lessons could not be postponed for any longer, so Lydia had decided to depart earlier than scheduled, and start her bridal training at Countess Othred's mansion.
"Countess Othred is not only humble, but kind as well. Not to mention, she has repeatedly expressed her excitement at your arrival. I'm sure that it will not be a problem if you depart early."
"Understood. Please do not worry about me anymore. I hope that your daughter gets well soon."
"Thank you, Lydia. However, since I have to send a telegram in advance, I wonder if you can depart for Somersetshire tomorrow?"
Somersetshire is a small county far away from London, in the west parts on England.
Lydia was suddenly reminded of the fact that she wouldn't be seeing Edgar for a while.
But then again, they hadn't seen one other ever since she had refused to visit him.
They haven't met ever since Lydia had refused to make her debut with him.
Ever since their engagement, he often came to visit her despite the fact that he wasn't invited to. However, he had never tried to visit her here. Perhaps he had thought that it was best for them to not meet for the moment.
"Lydia, if you have the support of Lady Othred, your debut will be much smoother. Good luck."
Lydia suddenly lifted her head.
Now that she thought about it, Edgar must have already discussed the matter of her debut into society with the Duchess. That must be why the Duchess was so adamant that Lydia have her bridal training under another noblewoman.
Edgar didn't suggest her debut into society on a whim, so he most likely wouldn't ask for Lydia's forgiveness. Now that she understood, her anger at him disappeared.
This allowed her to realise that her fiance was a noble.
And not just any noble, she was getting married to an earl.
It didn't matter whether having a commoner bride will shame Edgar or not, Lydia was going to try her best to enter the noble society. If she fails, she won't be able to stay by Edgar's side. He had already tried his best to help Lydia.
As he couldn't give up his title as the Earl of Ibrazel, he had to try to help Lydia become a noble if he were to stay by her side.
"I understand. I will do my very best."
She suddenly felt so motivated that surprised even herself.
She wasn't even confident that she will be able to do well, to be honest.
The Duchess smiled.
"Wonderful. I look forward to it. Oh, and you have to bring a maid with you to Somersetshire, but since I have to go to Derbyshire, I don't have anyone to spare."
"If so, I don't mind going alone."
Lydia had come all the way from Scotland all alone, so she didn't think anything of going to Somersetshire.
However, she was immediately shot down by the Duchess.
"You are a precious young lady that Professor Carlton had entrusted to me. I simply cannot do something so shameful such as making you travel alone before marriage. Luckily, there's a maid that is planning on moving to another mansion in Somersetshire, so I'll ask her to accompany you to Countess Othred's mansion."
Lydia noticed that even though she was fine with travelling alone, she was not supposed to show it in front of others.
"Lydia, Earl Ashenbert thinks that you're fine just the way you are. He didn't send you here to change you - just for you to learn the social etiquette and mannerisms of nobles.
That doesn't mean that you're not allowed to be independent. It just means that you have to be more pleasant in front of others. That's it."
"Yes… I understand."
However, it was hard to please everybody. Could she succeed?
What if she couldn't please Lady Othred?
She felt distressed, and suddenly the desire to see Edgar before her trip welled up within her.
But she hesitated.
Just as Edgar thought, Lydia still didn't have the confidence to step into the noble society with her head held high. If she were to see him now, would he think that Lydia was surrendering?
Even though they already understood each other's feelings, even though they were already engaged, but Lydia simply couldn't imagine going to her partner for help when she was distressed or lost.
In the end, Lydia had departed with a maid the next day, without seeing Edgar.
Outside the carriage window, the calming scenery with green hills quickly passed by.
Even though Somersetshire was a county in England, it was a place were many legends of fairies originated from.
It may be Lydia's first time in this place, but she still felt some sort of sense of familiarity.
Because she could feel the presence of fairies whenever she sees green hills and woods.
"You were born in Somersetshire, right?"
Lydia asked the maid sitting across from her in the carriage. Apparently, she quit working for the Duchess of Masefield to work at her hometown.
"Then, do you know about the red legged Danish fairies?"
Although the girl had cocked her head to the side in surprise, she still nodded.
"I've heard about it from my great grandmother. She said that they hid their treasures in a secret place, and that one will be rich if he or she finds that treasure."
"That's right. Because they are chatterboxes, they will often accidentally reveal the location of their hidden treasure. However, it's wiser to pretend not to know anything even though you've accidentally learned anout their secret. In return, if you promise to keep it a secret, then you can request for a wish to be granted in exchange."
"That's a myth, Miss."
That's right.
People that actually believe in fairies have been declining nowadays, so Lydia merely smiled mysteriously.
One can only negotiate with the Danish fairies when he or she knows where they hid their treasure. One must not make a widh if one didn't use the secret to exchange for it.
That's because the fairies' magic will affect the person. If he or she were to simply blurt out their wish, the mischievous fairies will cast spells that have unpredictable results.
That's why, it's best to pretend not to know anything even after having accidentally having heard of it.
Although she didn't know whether the maid's grandmother was the one who told her those things, but she was sure that the maid didn't really care.
"But Miss, aren't the Danish fairies vikings in actuality? If there were vikings who lived here before, maybe their treasure really is hidden somewhere in this area."
"The Danish fairies are not vikings. In fact, although they are often misunderstood, the Danish fairies are fairies that are related to the Danu tribe."
"Eh?"
It seems that she had brought up the wrong topic. Just as Lydia wanted to change it, the conductor appeared, causing her to let out a sigh of relief.
They must be close to the station.
"Miss, the carriage is really behind schedule! "
The young maid exclaimed as she alighted the carriage and spotted the clock.
"You're right! You'll have to take the next shift then."
The maid's new master's mansion was at the next stop.
The original plan was for the maid to accompany Lydia to Countess Othred's mansion as she waited for the next shift. However, if she was to do so now, she might miss it.
"Yes, that's right. That is the last shift…"
The maid said apologetically, and Lydia hadn't had the heart to make the poor thing accompany her to…
After all, she heard that the mansion was only around one hour away from the station, so Lydia decided to take a carriage there alone.
At least the maid offered to accompany Lydia just until the carriage arrived, and that she will see her off.
Even after passing through the large, ornate feont gate, there were no buildings around, and they were still on a path surrounded by numerous trees.
Lydia knew how large and extravagant most nobles' countryside villas were. But since this mansion now belonged to a widow, Lydia suddenly felt that the whole atmosphere had a tinge of loneliness to it.
When Lydia finally reached the mansion's front door, she told the butler that she was introduced here by the Duchess of Maysfield. The butler asked her to wait for a moment before leading her into the mansion.
Lydia waited for quite some time before a woman in a simple, green apparel appeared.
"You are?"
"… Lydia Carlton."
"I am Boyre."
Looks like it wasn't the Countess.
"From today onwards, you'll have to obey my orders. Do you understand?"
Was she going to be Lydia's teacher?
The woman called for Lydia to follow her before turning to leave.
In this large mansion, even the corridors and the stairs were wide and roomy. Even so, the woman chose to use a narrow and cramped pathway.
Even though Lydia wasn't wearing anything too fancy, the laces and frills of the dress still pressed against the walls as she walked in the narrow hallway, so she had to push the dress down.
"It seems that you have received well treatment in your previous mansion. However, do not expect that here."
The woman eyed Lydia's dress unhappily, as if irritated by her choice of clothes.
Lydia had thought that since she was going to visit the Countess, that she was supposed to dress accordingly as not to be disrespectful. However, it seems that there has been a misunderstanding.
"There have been many maids who thought too highly of themselves when they were given beautiful dresses by they mistresses, but here, that is unacceptable. First off, I'll have you change into simpler clothes."
…. Maid?
The still confused Lydia climbed up the winding and narrow staircase, and entered a room that looked like an attic.
"This will be your room. Come to the hall immediately after changing your clothes." And then she left.
Lydia now stood alone in the small room.
There was a simple bed beside the small window, and there was a desk with a chair, but even so, there wasn't any space to put anything else.
No matter how she looked at it, she had a strong feeling that this was the room of a maid.
Was it a misunderstanding? Or is it part of the Countess' orders?
This could be a part of a bridal training, after all. Maybe she was testing whether Lydia was worthy enough to marry into a noble's house, Lydia thought.
"That's right, maybe for some reason, she wants me to experience the life of a maid."
Anyways, Lydia felt that she couldn't show any dissatisfaction. She has to accept the Countess' teachings, and be acknowledged by her - that was what Edgar and the Duchess wished for.
Just as Lydia was trying to cheer herself up, the door opened, and a maid wearing an apron entered.
The maid silently handed Lydia hee work clothes. Lydia saw that the maid was leaving, so she hurriedly called to her.
"Wait! Um, who is Madam Boyre?"
"Madam Boyre is the mansion's head housekeeper."
"Head housekeeper... hm, she looks like a strict person."
"It is forbidden to gossip during work."
Lydia had planned on learning more about this place, but the maid had left immediately after she said her piece.
Even so, Lydia understood one thing.
That is, she was to obey the head housekeeper's orders. In other words, Lydia was to be treated as a maid here.
However, was this actually how Countess Othred did things?
She couldn't think about anything else, so Lydia quickly changed into her work clothes and left the room, once again descending the long, winding stairs.
"You're too slow. You take too much time just to change. You will not be able to work with that attitude."
She was immediately scolded by Madam Boyre once she reaxhed the hall.
As Madam Boyre inspected Lydia's apparel with her sharp eyes, she suddenly grabbed Lydia's messy braid and reminded her to braid her hair tidier.
"Although you're going to be the one to serve the mistress, you will not be receiving special treatment of any sort. Once the mistress has no need for you, you are required to perform other jobs as well."
It seemed that Lydia was supposed to be Lady Othred's personal maid. If so, then Lady Othred must have given it some thought.
"Excuse me, but it was Lady Othred that wanted me to be a maid, right?"
Madam Boyre frowned, as if she wanted to tell her that she understood how Lydia felt.
"Of course. Now bring the tea to the Mistress' room. Remember, you must bring the tea every day at this time."
"Understood."
"Also, the Mistress will be staying in her room for these few days. For now, you can only enter the lounge.
You are not allowed to enter the Mistress' room of your own accord. Once she calls for you, you are to leave the tea tray in the lounge and leave."
"Oh. Um, why will the Countess be cooped up in her room these days?"
"Do not ask about things you do not need to know."
"… yes."
Remember to ask the Mistress if she has any other orders for you when you serve her tea and meals. Other than that, you are not to disturb the Mistress, no matter what. Understood?"
That means that Lydia couldn't even meet the Countess to inquire about the bridal training.
Also , the fact that Countess Othred was cooped up in her room was very strange.
Lydia had once heard from the Duchess of Maysfield that since Countess Othred's late husband's death, she had disappeared from the noble society, but she still kept in touch with the royal family. Even now, most still say that she is still the best teacher of social etiquette, as she is the epitome of the perfect noblewoman.
She was elegant and has a great character, and was a person every noble lady wanted to be.
Has she fallen ill, or is it something else? But, if so, why didn't she refuse to take over Lydia's bridal training?
Met with this unexpected situation, the confused Lydia merely took the tea tray and walked to the Mistress' room, just as she was ordered to.
The room facing southwards on the second floor.
Lydia did as she was told, and called to the Mistress once she entered the lounge.
"Mistress, the tea is ready."
There wasn't any response, but the door at the other end of the lounge started creaking and groaning, as if someone (or something) was forcefully pushing at it.
"Mistress, do you have other orders?"
"No, leave now!"
Her voice was surprisingly hoarse. She had heard that the Countess was only around her forties, but now she sounded like an old woman.
She must be really sick. Lydia started to get worried.
"Mistress, are you unwell? I'm Lydia Carlton, and I've come here to learn noble social etiquette.…"
"So noisy! Leave now or you'll regret it!"
The loud rant was paired with the sound of the door being kicked roughly, and Lydia fled.
What was that?
Was the person inside really Countess Othred?
But she can't even forcefully enter the room. After all, she herself didn't even know what the Countess looked like.
Just as she had descended the stairs, she heard loud noises coming from the salon, which was right next to the living room. Maybe there were more guests that had just arrived.
Madam Boyre and a few higher class maids had lined up to greet the new guest.
"Hey, you over there. Can you help carry this?"
Sensing that she was called, Lydia turned to see who it was.
She saw a young lady with long, raven black hair.
The young lady pointed at the ornate box on a table.
"Isn't it a beautiful jewelry box? I wish to keep it in my room, as I borrowed it from my holiday villa. Also, my maid's hands are full."
Standing right next to the young maiden, was a girl with scarlet hair that seemed like her personal maid. The red head lowered her head apologetically.
The jewelry box, adorned with silver roses at the side, looked like it was worth hundreds or thousands.
Just as Lydia lifted it up, Madam Boyre reminded with a worried tone.
"Lydia, be careful with that. Also, Miss Lucinda's room is the guest room at the far end of the third floor."
As she wasn't used to it yet, Lydia hesitated for a moment before nodding head.
"Then, Father, I shall rest in my room for a while."
In front of the young lady called Lucinda, stood a stout gentleman that must have been her father.
"Do you want dinner?"
"No, Father. I don't have the appetite."
"Is that so. Go and rest in your room then."
Lydia felt that Lucinda, with her silky white skin, slender body, and even her tired expresion, was a very attention-grabbing beautiful young lady.
Even her actions of lifting her skirt as she climbed the stairs seemed graceful.
Her maid, until now, had only followed silently.
"You're... Lydia, right? Have you been working here for long?"
Miss Lucinda asked as they walked.
"No…"
After all, she was not here to become a maid. So whenever it was brought up, she would feel extrememly uncomfortable, so she kept quiet.
"Uh, is Miss Lucinda the Countess' relative?"
In retaliation, Lydia asked what she herself had been curious about, but it seemed as though it was an insult to Lucinda.
"Oh, have you never heard of me?" She asked in a joking tone; but from her smiling expression, and the irritation that burned in her eyes, Lydia could sense that she wasn't happy as all. She started to feel uneasy.
She looked like a kind and gentle young lady, but could she be an arrogant person on the inside?
"It's all right. Lady Othred is my Aunt. Earl Constable is my Father. Remember it."
"I'm sorry."
Later, maybe due to the fact that the arrogant young maiden couldn't stand Lydia’s ignorance, Lucinda started to explain.
"As I plan to make my debut into society this year, I came here to learn from my Aunt. If I have the support of my Aunt, then surely my place in society will be higher than most."
Does that mean that she will also be working as a maid? Or will she, a noble relative, receive different treatment as compared to Lydia, a commoner who wishes to marry an Earl?
Once they entered Lucinda's room, Lydia realised that the room Madam Boyre had chosen for Lucinda, was far more superior than Lydia's room in the attic.
It was a roomy guest room with an attached wardrobe.
No matter what, the Earl's precious daughter would most likely not be forced to work as a maid.
"I didn't just come here for that. Soon, another guest will arrive - my fiance."
"Oh, I see."
"He's the one who has been secretly writing letters to me, and he will come here to inform my Father about his proposal to me. If he were to visit my home so suddenly, it would surely cause my Father to be more cautious. However, if we were to pretend that our meeting here was a coincidence, then surely my Father will be more accepting towards this news. That's our plan."
"That's wonderful."
"However, my Father still thinks of me as a child. So I'm worried that it will not go as planned."
"Don't worry. Since he's your father, I'm sure that he will understand."
As she chatted, Lydia suddenly remembered about her own situation, and she lowered her head to hide her warmed cheeks.
Her father, who had always viewed her as his precious daughter, was surprisingly very quick to accept her marriage to Edgar.
When asked, her father would always reply with: "Lydia looks the happiest when she is with Edgar."
When she's with Edgar, rather than feeling happy, she felt nervous, embarrassed, and lost most of the time.
But when her father said it like that, Lydia felt that maybe that was happiness after all.
That's why, even though she didn't really understand Lady Othred's methods, she will still give it her all.
"That's right. So if anything happens, you'll have to help me, okay?"
Lucinda was unexpectedly quite the chatty individual. However, why was it that her maid had been silent ever since the start?
"Please help me to put this jewelry box under the bed." Priceless jewels must have been kept inside, she thought as she did as she was told. As she stood up, her gaze met those of Lucinda's maid.
Lydia tried to get her to talk.
"What's your name?"
The maid's eyes widened in surprise, and she shook her head, but she didn't say a word.
"Annie. She's mute."
Miss Lucinda answered for her servant.
"Hey Lydia, what is my Aunt like?"
"Huh?"
"Honestly, I've never met my aunt before. Since the relationship between my Father and my Aunt is bad, this is my first time being here. After all, my debut will be smoother with Aunt's support, so Father has deemed it necessary for us to pay her a visit."
"I have also just arrived here earlier today."
"Oh, is that so? What a pity! I heard that Aunt is resting in her room, so I wanted to find out more about her. Then, do you also not know about Aunt's 'REGARD' necklace?"
A necklace that was made from various types of gems, and when the first letter of the name of each gem was connected, it would form a word. As it was normally used to show a person's love for their counterpart, it would usually form the word 'REGARD'.
"I've heard that it was an exquisite piece of jewelry. Even though my honorable Aunt's gems are first grade, what's so special about the necklace is its floral design, and the fact that hundreds of five different gems were used to create it. Have you seen it before?"
She hasn't even stepped one foot into the Countess' room yet. Lydia shook her head.
"Apparently it was a present from her late husband. I wonder if I can borrow it before I head for the palace?"
What kind of expensive jewelry was it like? Even Lydia couldn't imagine.
A place where young maidens with that kind of accessories gather, that was the noble society.
Even though Edgar planned on bringing Lydia to that place, but beautiful dresses, shoes, and expensive jewelry were just her accessories as a bride.
Can she, who hadn't made any preparations, really live in that place?
When she thought about it, she suddenly felt that maybe Countess Othred didn't want to let a commoner girl like Lydia enter the world of nobles.
By inviting a born noble like Lucinda, and her fiance, did Countess Othred want to show Lydia an official marruage between nobles?
Or was it to show Lydia her place as a commoner by making her work as a lowly maid? If that is true, then no mater how hard she tried, she wouldn't be acknowledged.
… No, that's impossible. I will be acknowledged if I try hard enough.
She said to herself, as if trying to chase her depressed feelings away, and left Lucinda's room.
However, she couldn't stiffle her sigh.
"Hm, so this is bridal training."
She mumbled softly, and after checking to see that there wasn't anyone else around, sighed loudly again.
As she wandered listlessly to Madam Boyre's side, she could hear the telltale noises of an approaching carriage. Maybe another guest has arrived. She looked outside the window.
It must be the other guest Lucinda had mentioned.
What kind of person would he be like? She suddenly felt very curious, and started to pay attention to the newcomer.
As the carriage door opened, her gaze landed on the man that alighted the carriage. She gasped, but quickly muffled it by covering her mouth with her hand.
From his hat to his shoes, even his tall and slender figure, all of them were extremely familiar to Lydia. She couldn't have mistaken him for anyone else.
"… Edgar?"
Lydia quickly hid behind the curtains. The oblivious Edgar and Raven walked towards the door, where Madam Boyre waited.
"Why is it… Edgar?"
Lydia tried to calm herself down. Even though he's here, it doesn't mean that he's Lucinda's fiance.
That's right. That sort of thing is impossible.
Because he's Lydia's fiance.
Edgar knew about Lydia's plans to stay in Countess Othred's mansion as she learned about noble social etiquette. Maybe he had some matters to discuss with the Countess.
Or… maybe he received notice from the Duchess of Maysfield, and has come to visit her.
"…. Maybe he's come to see me."
Even so, Lydia couldn't feel happy at his arrival. She didn't want Edgar to see her work as a maid, after all.
It didn't matter whether it was under Madam Othred's orders, or if it was an important part of her bridal training. She didn't want to meet him if she didn't at least look presentable.
Before, Lydia had never cared about her appearance; but now, she was afraid that if she wasn't pretty enough, Edgar's feelings for her may disappear. Among her feelings for him, Lydia strongly didn't want to see him right now.
With Madam Boyre's words of welcome in her ears, she fled through the servant's passageway.
***** ****** ******
Edgar, who had already planned on meeting with Countess Othred, still thought that Lydia was only supposed to arrive on the week after.
If Lydia was to have a smooth and successful debut into the noble society, she had to have the praise of elder noble women.
Edgar didn't have the chance to know Countess Othred personally, so he had to ask for the Duchess of Maysfield's help. Even so, he wanted to meet her.
Also, soon there would be another inportant guest who will arrive.
However, when he arrived, he found out that he wasn't allowed to meet the Countess. Edgar, who had already made preparations, was now out of ideas. He didn't expect Countess Othred to suddenly fall ill, and the fact that Lord Constable and his daughter will also be staying at Madam Othred's mansion was also very unexpected.
Unfortunately, it seemed as though Lord Constable still thought of Edgar as the man who tried to woo his daughter, as Miss Lucinda seemed reluctant to explain everything to her father.
To avoid any misunderstandings, he had planned on explaining everything to Countess Othred before Lydia's arrival. However, now, he was stumped.
Gazing at Countess Othred's garden through the glass window, he sighed loudly and mumbled.
"I wonder what Lydia is doing right now."
"Normally, she would be having her tea by now."
His faithful servant answered, glancing at his pocket watch he fished from inside his coat pocket.
Becauae if she were to live in the Maysfield household, she would have had to live an organised life. However…
"No, Raven, Lydia must be thinking about me as she performs her duties."
"That… what?"
Even though they were already engaged, just like how Raven couldn't answer him, Edgar still couldn't fully understand Lydia's feelings.
She was a girl that he had wooed incessantly due to his own desire for her.
Of course, Lydia didn't agree to marry him just because she got annoyed at his incessant advances. She must have been at least a little attracted to him.
However, when it came to passionate love, she was still lacking.
For example, he has never heard her say things like "I love you". When they were alone, and when Edgar wanted to be intimate with her, she would calmly reciprocate his actions.
She must have thought that since they were already engaged, it would be rude of her to reject his advances.
Even so, it did not matter any more. Edgar had already started to think differently than before.
All of his wishes were irrelevant, as long as Lydia was by his side. That was Edgar's biggest wish.
"If you want to be loved, you cannot love. That's the basis of love. After all, if you fall in love first, then it's already hopeless."
Until now, Edgar had always treated love like a game. However, with Lydia, everything was different. It was undeniable that he wanted to be loved, but he simply couldn't act cool around her.
In the end, he loved seeing the abashed and clueless Lydia try to reciprocate his feelings.
However, he still felt somewhat unsatisfied.
"If she said that she wanted to see me, I would immediately rush to her side."
They haven't seen each other for quite some time, but he still hasn't heard Lydia say anything of that sort.
"Then why didn't you go and see her?"
Raven seemed like he was dissatisfied.
"Once I see her, I'll want to kiss her. And you said so youself, that I shouldn't bother Lydia too much."
"I think that as long as it isn't too annoying, then it should be fine."
"Raven, those things aren't irritating. It's just that Lydia is a little shy in these matters. "
"… hmm."
"Also, Lydia has been so shy that she's neglected me, so I simply can't control myself when I'm around her."
However, most likely, she wouldn’t feel even a little happy at that.
In the Countess' yard, near the woods, he saw a maid with pigtails that looked as though she was lost, and was pacing in an agitated manner. At that time, the thought of that maid being his fiancée never crossed his mind, and Edgar simply imagined her as Lydia, who always held her head low.
***** ***** ***** ****
Lydia, who had been ordered to pluck some roses as there wasn't enough to decorate the dining table, had been pacing aimlessly, not knowing where the rose garden was.
"This garden is huge!"
But which way was the rose garden? There wasn't anyone else around so she couldn't even ask for directions.
Just as she was thinking about what to do next, a wild rabbit darted across the flower patches.
"Wait! I want to ask you something!"
Lydia hurriedly gave chase, and the rabbit stopped to look back.
(You can see me?)
It was a fairy wearing a rabbit's skin. However, normal people will still see it as a wild rabbit.
"Where is the rose garden?"
(The rose garden? Are you planning on stealing our precious roses?)
"Um, I never planned on stealing anything."
(You little thief! Whoever that asks about the rose garden is a dirty little thief!)
The fairy that looked like a rabbit, in his anger, had caused his rabbit ears, his brown coat of fur, and even his boots that looked like a rabbit's hind legs to fall off, revealing his true appearance.
It was a Danish fairy.
Lydia tried to calm the fairy down as she observed.
"I'm a fairy doctor."
(Fairy doctor? Hmph, can humans, who say anything they like, be trusted? Hah! Those that cannot keep their secrets cannot enter the rose garden!)
Afyer saying that, the fairy vanished into the woods.
"Fairies are the ones who talk too much."
Frustrated, she started to mumble.
"What were you talking about with the rabbit?"
An unfamiliar voice came from behind her.
Lydia turned her head and spotted a young servant.
"That, just now…"
"Were you talking to yourself? Ah, you wanted to complain, right? Madam Boyre really is too strict!"
This young man most likely was shirking his duties. There were blades of grass that stuck to his short hair as well as his work clothes, and he also smelled of tobacco.
"You're the new maid Lydia, right? I'm Billy."
Even though he gave the impression of a cold person, he looked very friendly when he smiled.
"It's nice to meet you."
The young lad looked at Lydia weirdly.
"Now that we're acquainted, I wonder how long will you last here? Usually, the maids here quit after a while."
"Oh? Is that so?"
"Yeah. I wonder if the mistress here has changed? Maybe that's why they keep hiring new maids."
It looks like the Countess had conveniently used her to temporarily fill up the vacancy.
As she was pondering, Billy suddenly grabbed ahold of her hand.
"Such pretty hands! Are you a lady that's been forced to work for some reason? Why would you come to this place then?"
Lydia, who had quickly retracted her hand, asked him where the rose garden was at.
"It's at the end of the pathway with the gorse flowers."
"Thank you, I still have work to do. Good bye."
Lydia ran off, but even as she rounded a corner, she could still feel Billy staring at her direction.
Even so, she still found rose garden right ahead - just as Billy said she would.
Roses that wound around the white stone pillars formed an arch overhead. With that as an entrance, as she stepped inside, she saw a fountain with a Saint Maria's statue surrounded by colorful flower patches.
Now that she thought about it, she realised that it was too early for the roses to bloom. If she had wanted to pluck some roses, she should have went to the greenhouse instead. But just as she thought about turning back, she was distracted by something, and she lingered.
In a corner of the rose garden, was a tall tree. In its shadow, Lydia could vaguely see a floating myriad of colours, just like a miniature aurora.
What is that? Lydia drew closer.
She crouched down, and saw some ivy that came from goodness knows where wrapped around a rose in the space hidden between the tree and another patch of flowers. As she moved closer, her foot sank downwards.
Instantly, Lydia fell into what seemed like a trap.
It was all thanks to the velvety soft grass that broke her fall that prevented her from from getting injured. But really, what a mysterious cave it was.
The tunnel connected to the cave was small and narrow, and made Lydia think that it a passage was meant for fairies.
The pit was slightly deeper than the height of an average person, and the floating lights were right above Lydia's head. It must be the magic cast by the fairies to hide the cave entrance.
It seemed that Lydia, who could already see fairies, had accidentally stumbled upon this place. Up ahead, she could see a tunnel that looked as though it was recently dug up. It was undoubtedly a pathway for fairies.
Lydia felt a strong desire to see where it lead to.
All sides of the tunnel were covered in cotton grass, even the ceiling, so it looked like a green tunnel.
Lydia continued forward.
Not long after, she saw a ray of light at the end of the tunnel. Just as she wanted to hasten her footsteps, she heard a voice that came from nowhere.
(Hey, what is it that you desire?)
Fairies!
It must be the Danish fairies, Lydia thought.
Now that she thought about it, the fairies had been very angry when they found out that Lydia was looking for the rose garden.
(Since you've already found this place, we have no choice. We'll fulfill your wish, then leave this place!)
It seems that the area beyond was their territory, and they were trying to chase away the intruder.
However, Lydia's a fairy doctor, and had known how to deal with this situation.
That was to ignore tham, and not respond to their inquiries.
Because to punish the intruder, the fairies will look for an opening to cast their magic.
(We can fulfill any wish. Just say it! And it will be reality.)
Those that find it hard to keep their mouths shut cannot enter the rose garden. The fairy from before had said.
It's true that it's just as easy as blurting it out. Even if one didn't believe that their wish would come true, they still might be lured into revealing it.
However, once the wish is revealed, bad things would surely befall the person due to the fairies' magic.
Lydia silently walked towards the light.
That place was undoubtedly the 'Rose Garden'.
The Danish fairies' secret rose garden.
In the centre, there were countless blooming roses that were blanketed by a thin layer of mist.
All of the flowers looked like they exuded a soft glow, and when Lydia touched them, she felt as though the cool and soft petals had caressed her fingers. The rose's petals looked glossy, colourful and slightly translucent, and they were as soft as a swan's down.
Once Lydia reached the centre of the rose garden, it seemed as though the fairies had given up, and their presence disappeared.
Thank goodness, Lydia thought as she continued to explore.
"So pretty…"
She forgot all about her errand, and merely gazed at the beautiful roses.
"Oh, how rare! A guest?"
It was the voice of a lady. Lydia turned and was shocked by the presence of a human in the fairies' garden.
"Um, I'm very sorry for trespassing. "
It was a middle aged lady wearing a straw hat. Her face was tanned, she wore a dirty apron and had a watering can in her hand. She had on her neck a beautiful necklace made from various flowers, with a scarlet rose at the centre.
"It's all right. I'm just a gardener."
Lydia has never heard of fairies hiring humans to be their gardeners.
"But, this is the first time I've seen another person in this place."
True. Even Lydia herself didn't expect to see anyone else here.
"This must be the fairies' garden."
Needles to say, the woman must have known already. She merely smiled as she nodded.
"Do you already know the way to this place?"
"Yes, because I am a fairy doctor."
"Wow, so fairy doctors do exist! I thought that they were myths."
The lady's pale green eyes, filled with curiosity, was directed at Lydia in a stare, and she invited Lydia over to a small cottage for some tea.
"I apologise. We only have rose tea here."
"It's my favourite."
"That's good, Miss…?"
"Lydia."
"I'm Virginia. Nice to meet you."
What had looked like a small garden shed on the outside, actually seemed very tidy on the inside. The potted plants and the dried flower specimens were well placed and adorable, so the interior looked like a simple cottage from the countryside.
The round wooden table and chairs were warm and cozy, and when she saw the ladder that lead upstairs, she imagined that there was a bedroom at the second floor.
"Actually, I live here." The lady offered just as Lydia's head filled up witb questions.
"All alone?"
"As long as I am unable to cultivate a new specie if roses, I cannot leave this place."
"Is it because of the fairies' magic?"
The lady nodded, gazing at a little vase decorated with coral-coloured roses.
According to the woman who loved caring for the roses, she had once been the gardener that tended to Countess Othred's rose garden. As she tended to them, she would also perform research on new species of roses, and spent most of her time trying to improve them.
Not long after, she heard from her master, the previous Earl of Othred, about the fairies' garden which was situated somewhere on this land.
"I've heard about a legend. It says that it would be better to have this if you wish to enter the fairies' garden."
Virginia lightly touched the flower necklace.
"Also, they told me that I shouldn't say a word when the fairies ask about my wish. At that time, I didn't really believe this old myth, but I still tried it. But after I found this place, I started to come here every day."
A garden with roses that bloom all year round. These mysterious roses wilt immediately after they are brought to the human world, and even if you bring a seed with you, it will not germinate outside of this garden. That's why even the most exotic roses couldn't be brought out yo be studied, the woman explained.
"My desire to cultivate new, exotic roses, to tend to them, and to watch them bloom under my care became stronger as the days went by. And in the end, I answered the voices that inquired about my wish."
It seems that for her to make her wish come true, she became the fairies' gardener.
The fairies must have known about how passionate the lady was about roses and her skill in making roses bloom. So they didn't use any sort of magic to cause her any misfortune, but instead had formed a contract with her.
"However, the life here isn't bad at all. Once a new rose blooms, the fairies will be very happy. In turn, I will be able to return to the human world, and continue living as I normally would. However, after a few days, I will return here of my own accord, as I have already fallen in love with this place."
Whenever the lady wanted to return to the human world, she would have to breed a new species of roses.
The rose tea was elegant and wonderfully fragrant. The opening of the rose buds, was like the sigh of a beautiful rose.
At that moment, all of Lydia's worries disappeared without a trace.
"I'm so sorry for springing this on you so suddenly, Lydia."
The Duchess of Maysfield exclaimed to Lydia during their afternoon tea.
The Duchess of Maysfield was an elegant old lady who, for some reasons unknown, adored Edgar, and she treated him as if he was her own grandson.
Not long after Edgar had arrived at England, everyone had thought that he had purposely curried the Duchess' favor to showcase his status as an Earl in the social world. However, since Edgar had also treated the Duchess like family, everyone wouldn't think that the Duchess was being used."
Of course, this may also be because of Edgar's flirtatious ways.
The Duchess of Maysfield had already decided to appoint herself as Lydia and Edgar's guardian, even before Lydia and Edgar, who had clearly expressed his love for her, had spoken their vows.
Because of this, Lydia was to stay at the Duchess' manor for only three days to learn the social etiquette of a noble lady.
"I have not taught you anything, yet I'm sending you off to somewhere you are unfamiliar with…"
"No, it's fine. I was to be sent there in a week's time anyways."
Lydia had already planned in advance that she was to travel to another noble woman's manor with the Duchess of Maysfield next week. Due to the fact that Countess Othred was well known for teaching young noble ladies social etiquette, the Duchess of Maysfield had planned on letting Lydia stay with the Countess for a short period of time.
However, the Duchess had just received word of her eldest daughter's sickness this morning, so she has to pay her a visit.
They weren't sure when the Duchess would return to London, and Lydia's lessons could not be postponed for any longer, so Lydia had decided to depart earlier than scheduled, and start her bridal training at Countess Othred's mansion.
"Countess Othred is not only humble, but kind as well. Not to mention, she has repeatedly expressed her excitement at your arrival. I'm sure that it will not be a problem if you depart early."
"Understood. Please do not worry about me anymore. I hope that your daughter gets well soon."
"Thank you, Lydia. However, since I have to send a telegram in advance, I wonder if you can depart for Somersetshire tomorrow?"
Somersetshire is a small county far away from London, in the west parts on England.
Lydia was suddenly reminded of the fact that she wouldn't be seeing Edgar for a while.
But then again, they hadn't seen one other ever since she had refused to visit him.
They haven't met ever since Lydia had refused to make her debut with him.
Ever since their engagement, he often came to visit her despite the fact that he wasn't invited to. However, he had never tried to visit her here. Perhaps he had thought that it was best for them to not meet for the moment.
"Lydia, if you have the support of Lady Othred, your debut will be much smoother. Good luck."
Lydia suddenly lifted her head.
Now that she thought about it, Edgar must have already discussed the matter of her debut into society with the Duchess. That must be why the Duchess was so adamant that Lydia have her bridal training under another noblewoman.
Edgar didn't suggest her debut into society on a whim, so he most likely wouldn't ask for Lydia's forgiveness. Now that she understood, her anger at him disappeared.
This allowed her to realise that her fiance was a noble.
And not just any noble, she was getting married to an earl.
It didn't matter whether having a commoner bride will shame Edgar or not, Lydia was going to try her best to enter the noble society. If she fails, she won't be able to stay by Edgar's side. He had already tried his best to help Lydia.
As he couldn't give up his title as the Earl of Ibrazel, he had to try to help Lydia become a noble if he were to stay by her side.
"I understand. I will do my very best."
She suddenly felt so motivated that surprised even herself.
She wasn't even confident that she will be able to do well, to be honest.
The Duchess smiled.
"Wonderful. I look forward to it. Oh, and you have to bring a maid with you to Somersetshire, but since I have to go to Derbyshire, I don't have anyone to spare."
"If so, I don't mind going alone."
Lydia had come all the way from Scotland all alone, so she didn't think anything of going to Somersetshire.
However, she was immediately shot down by the Duchess.
"You are a precious young lady that Professor Carlton had entrusted to me. I simply cannot do something so shameful such as making you travel alone before marriage. Luckily, there's a maid that is planning on moving to another mansion in Somersetshire, so I'll ask her to accompany you to Countess Othred's mansion."
Lydia noticed that even though she was fine with travelling alone, she was not supposed to show it in front of others.
"Lydia, Earl Ashenbert thinks that you're fine just the way you are. He didn't send you here to change you - just for you to learn the social etiquette and mannerisms of nobles.
That doesn't mean that you're not allowed to be independent. It just means that you have to be more pleasant in front of others. That's it."
"Yes… I understand."
However, it was hard to please everybody. Could she succeed?
What if she couldn't please Lady Othred?
She felt distressed, and suddenly the desire to see Edgar before her trip welled up within her.
But she hesitated.
Just as Edgar thought, Lydia still didn't have the confidence to step into the noble society with her head held high. If she were to see him now, would he think that Lydia was surrendering?
Even though they already understood each other's feelings, even though they were already engaged, but Lydia simply couldn't imagine going to her partner for help when she was distressed or lost.
In the end, Lydia had departed with a maid the next day, without seeing Edgar.
Outside the carriage window, the calming scenery with green hills quickly passed by.
Even though Somersetshire was a county in England, it was a place were many legends of fairies originated from.
It may be Lydia's first time in this place, but she still felt some sort of sense of familiarity.
Because she could feel the presence of fairies whenever she sees green hills and woods.
"You were born in Somersetshire, right?"
Lydia asked the maid sitting across from her in the carriage. Apparently, she quit working for the Duchess of Masefield to work at her hometown.
"Then, do you know about the red legged Danish fairies?"
Although the girl had cocked her head to the side in surprise, she still nodded.
"I've heard about it from my great grandmother. She said that they hid their treasures in a secret place, and that one will be rich if he or she finds that treasure."
"That's right. Because they are chatterboxes, they will often accidentally reveal the location of their hidden treasure. However, it's wiser to pretend not to know anything even though you've accidentally learned anout their secret. In return, if you promise to keep it a secret, then you can request for a wish to be granted in exchange."
"That's a myth, Miss."
That's right.
People that actually believe in fairies have been declining nowadays, so Lydia merely smiled mysteriously.
One can only negotiate with the Danish fairies when he or she knows where they hid their treasure. One must not make a widh if one didn't use the secret to exchange for it.
That's because the fairies' magic will affect the person. If he or she were to simply blurt out their wish, the mischievous fairies will cast spells that have unpredictable results.
That's why, it's best to pretend not to know anything even after having accidentally having heard of it.
Although she didn't know whether the maid's grandmother was the one who told her those things, but she was sure that the maid didn't really care.
"But Miss, aren't the Danish fairies vikings in actuality? If there were vikings who lived here before, maybe their treasure really is hidden somewhere in this area."
"The Danish fairies are not vikings. In fact, although they are often misunderstood, the Danish fairies are fairies that are related to the Danu tribe."
"Eh?"
It seems that she had brought up the wrong topic. Just as Lydia wanted to change it, the conductor appeared, causing her to let out a sigh of relief.
They must be close to the station.
"Miss, the carriage is really behind schedule! "
The young maid exclaimed as she alighted the carriage and spotted the clock.
"You're right! You'll have to take the next shift then."
The maid's new master's mansion was at the next stop.
The original plan was for the maid to accompany Lydia to Countess Othred's mansion as she waited for the next shift. However, if she was to do so now, she might miss it.
"Yes, that's right. That is the last shift…"
The maid said apologetically, and Lydia hadn't had the heart to make the poor thing accompany her to…
After all, she heard that the mansion was only around one hour away from the station, so Lydia decided to take a carriage there alone.
At least the maid offered to accompany Lydia just until the carriage arrived, and that she will see her off.
Even after passing through the large, ornate feont gate, there were no buildings around, and they were still on a path surrounded by numerous trees.
Lydia knew how large and extravagant most nobles' countryside villas were. But since this mansion now belonged to a widow, Lydia suddenly felt that the whole atmosphere had a tinge of loneliness to it.
When Lydia finally reached the mansion's front door, she told the butler that she was introduced here by the Duchess of Maysfield. The butler asked her to wait for a moment before leading her into the mansion.
Lydia waited for quite some time before a woman in a simple, green apparel appeared.
"You are?"
"… Lydia Carlton."
"I am Boyre."
Looks like it wasn't the Countess.
"From today onwards, you'll have to obey my orders. Do you understand?"
Was she going to be Lydia's teacher?
The woman called for Lydia to follow her before turning to leave.
In this large mansion, even the corridors and the stairs were wide and roomy. Even so, the woman chose to use a narrow and cramped pathway.
Even though Lydia wasn't wearing anything too fancy, the laces and frills of the dress still pressed against the walls as she walked in the narrow hallway, so she had to push the dress down.
"It seems that you have received well treatment in your previous mansion. However, do not expect that here."
The woman eyed Lydia's dress unhappily, as if irritated by her choice of clothes.
Lydia had thought that since she was going to visit the Countess, that she was supposed to dress accordingly as not to be disrespectful. However, it seems that there has been a misunderstanding.
"There have been many maids who thought too highly of themselves when they were given beautiful dresses by they mistresses, but here, that is unacceptable. First off, I'll have you change into simpler clothes."
…. Maid?
The still confused Lydia climbed up the winding and narrow staircase, and entered a room that looked like an attic.
"This will be your room. Come to the hall immediately after changing your clothes." And then she left.
Lydia now stood alone in the small room.
There was a simple bed beside the small window, and there was a desk with a chair, but even so, there wasn't any space to put anything else.
No matter how she looked at it, she had a strong feeling that this was the room of a maid.
Was it a misunderstanding? Or is it part of the Countess' orders?
This could be a part of a bridal training, after all. Maybe she was testing whether Lydia was worthy enough to marry into a noble's house, Lydia thought.
"That's right, maybe for some reason, she wants me to experience the life of a maid."
Anyways, Lydia felt that she couldn't show any dissatisfaction. She has to accept the Countess' teachings, and be acknowledged by her - that was what Edgar and the Duchess wished for.
Just as Lydia was trying to cheer herself up, the door opened, and a maid wearing an apron entered.
The maid silently handed Lydia hee work clothes. Lydia saw that the maid was leaving, so she hurriedly called to her.
"Wait! Um, who is Madam Boyre?"
"Madam Boyre is the mansion's head housekeeper."
"Head housekeeper... hm, she looks like a strict person."
"It is forbidden to gossip during work."
Lydia had planned on learning more about this place, but the maid had left immediately after she said her piece.
Even so, Lydia understood one thing.
That is, she was to obey the head housekeeper's orders. In other words, Lydia was to be treated as a maid here.
However, was this actually how Countess Othred did things?
She couldn't think about anything else, so Lydia quickly changed into her work clothes and left the room, once again descending the long, winding stairs.
"You're too slow. You take too much time just to change. You will not be able to work with that attitude."
She was immediately scolded by Madam Boyre once she reaxhed the hall.
As Madam Boyre inspected Lydia's apparel with her sharp eyes, she suddenly grabbed Lydia's messy braid and reminded her to braid her hair tidier.
"Although you're going to be the one to serve the mistress, you will not be receiving special treatment of any sort. Once the mistress has no need for you, you are required to perform other jobs as well."
It seemed that Lydia was supposed to be Lady Othred's personal maid. If so, then Lady Othred must have given it some thought.
"Excuse me, but it was Lady Othred that wanted me to be a maid, right?"
Madam Boyre frowned, as if she wanted to tell her that she understood how Lydia felt.
"Of course. Now bring the tea to the Mistress' room. Remember, you must bring the tea every day at this time."
"Understood."
"Also, the Mistress will be staying in her room for these few days. For now, you can only enter the lounge.
You are not allowed to enter the Mistress' room of your own accord. Once she calls for you, you are to leave the tea tray in the lounge and leave."
"Oh. Um, why will the Countess be cooped up in her room these days?"
"Do not ask about things you do not need to know."
"… yes."
Remember to ask the Mistress if she has any other orders for you when you serve her tea and meals. Other than that, you are not to disturb the Mistress, no matter what. Understood?"
That means that Lydia couldn't even meet the Countess to inquire about the bridal training.
Also , the fact that Countess Othred was cooped up in her room was very strange.
Lydia had once heard from the Duchess of Maysfield that since Countess Othred's late husband's death, she had disappeared from the noble society, but she still kept in touch with the royal family. Even now, most still say that she is still the best teacher of social etiquette, as she is the epitome of the perfect noblewoman.
She was elegant and has a great character, and was a person every noble lady wanted to be.
Has she fallen ill, or is it something else? But, if so, why didn't she refuse to take over Lydia's bridal training?
Met with this unexpected situation, the confused Lydia merely took the tea tray and walked to the Mistress' room, just as she was ordered to.
The room facing southwards on the second floor.
Lydia did as she was told, and called to the Mistress once she entered the lounge.
"Mistress, the tea is ready."
There wasn't any response, but the door at the other end of the lounge started creaking and groaning, as if someone (or something) was forcefully pushing at it.
"Mistress, do you have other orders?"
"No, leave now!"
Her voice was surprisingly hoarse. She had heard that the Countess was only around her forties, but now she sounded like an old woman.
She must be really sick. Lydia started to get worried.
"Mistress, are you unwell? I'm Lydia Carlton, and I've come here to learn noble social etiquette.…"
"So noisy! Leave now or you'll regret it!"
The loud rant was paired with the sound of the door being kicked roughly, and Lydia fled.
What was that?
Was the person inside really Countess Othred?
But she can't even forcefully enter the room. After all, she herself didn't even know what the Countess looked like.
Just as she had descended the stairs, she heard loud noises coming from the salon, which was right next to the living room. Maybe there were more guests that had just arrived.
Madam Boyre and a few higher class maids had lined up to greet the new guest.
"Hey, you over there. Can you help carry this?"
Sensing that she was called, Lydia turned to see who it was.
She saw a young lady with long, raven black hair.
The young lady pointed at the ornate box on a table.
"Isn't it a beautiful jewelry box? I wish to keep it in my room, as I borrowed it from my holiday villa. Also, my maid's hands are full."
Standing right next to the young maiden, was a girl with scarlet hair that seemed like her personal maid. The red head lowered her head apologetically.
The jewelry box, adorned with silver roses at the side, looked like it was worth hundreds or thousands.
Just as Lydia lifted it up, Madam Boyre reminded with a worried tone.
"Lydia, be careful with that. Also, Miss Lucinda's room is the guest room at the far end of the third floor."
As she wasn't used to it yet, Lydia hesitated for a moment before nodding head.
"Then, Father, I shall rest in my room for a while."
In front of the young lady called Lucinda, stood a stout gentleman that must have been her father.
"Do you want dinner?"
"No, Father. I don't have the appetite."
"Is that so. Go and rest in your room then."
Lydia felt that Lucinda, with her silky white skin, slender body, and even her tired expresion, was a very attention-grabbing beautiful young lady.
Even her actions of lifting her skirt as she climbed the stairs seemed graceful.
Her maid, until now, had only followed silently.
"You're... Lydia, right? Have you been working here for long?"
Miss Lucinda asked as they walked.
"No…"
After all, she was not here to become a maid. So whenever it was brought up, she would feel extrememly uncomfortable, so she kept quiet.
"Uh, is Miss Lucinda the Countess' relative?"
In retaliation, Lydia asked what she herself had been curious about, but it seemed as though it was an insult to Lucinda.
"Oh, have you never heard of me?" She asked in a joking tone; but from her smiling expression, and the irritation that burned in her eyes, Lydia could sense that she wasn't happy as all. She started to feel uneasy.
She looked like a kind and gentle young lady, but could she be an arrogant person on the inside?
"It's all right. Lady Othred is my Aunt. Earl Constable is my Father. Remember it."
"I'm sorry."
Later, maybe due to the fact that the arrogant young maiden couldn't stand Lydia’s ignorance, Lucinda started to explain.
"As I plan to make my debut into society this year, I came here to learn from my Aunt. If I have the support of my Aunt, then surely my place in society will be higher than most."
Does that mean that she will also be working as a maid? Or will she, a noble relative, receive different treatment as compared to Lydia, a commoner who wishes to marry an Earl?
Once they entered Lucinda's room, Lydia realised that the room Madam Boyre had chosen for Lucinda, was far more superior than Lydia's room in the attic.
It was a roomy guest room with an attached wardrobe.
No matter what, the Earl's precious daughter would most likely not be forced to work as a maid.
"I didn't just come here for that. Soon, another guest will arrive - my fiance."
"Oh, I see."
"He's the one who has been secretly writing letters to me, and he will come here to inform my Father about his proposal to me. If he were to visit my home so suddenly, it would surely cause my Father to be more cautious. However, if we were to pretend that our meeting here was a coincidence, then surely my Father will be more accepting towards this news. That's our plan."
"That's wonderful."
"However, my Father still thinks of me as a child. So I'm worried that it will not go as planned."
"Don't worry. Since he's your father, I'm sure that he will understand."
As she chatted, Lydia suddenly remembered about her own situation, and she lowered her head to hide her warmed cheeks.
Her father, who had always viewed her as his precious daughter, was surprisingly very quick to accept her marriage to Edgar.
When asked, her father would always reply with: "Lydia looks the happiest when she is with Edgar."
When she's with Edgar, rather than feeling happy, she felt nervous, embarrassed, and lost most of the time.
But when her father said it like that, Lydia felt that maybe that was happiness after all.
That's why, even though she didn't really understand Lady Othred's methods, she will still give it her all.
"That's right. So if anything happens, you'll have to help me, okay?"
Lucinda was unexpectedly quite the chatty individual. However, why was it that her maid had been silent ever since the start?
"Please help me to put this jewelry box under the bed." Priceless jewels must have been kept inside, she thought as she did as she was told. As she stood up, her gaze met those of Lucinda's maid.
Lydia tried to get her to talk.
"What's your name?"
The maid's eyes widened in surprise, and she shook her head, but she didn't say a word.
"Annie. She's mute."
Miss Lucinda answered for her servant.
"Hey Lydia, what is my Aunt like?"
"Huh?"
"Honestly, I've never met my aunt before. Since the relationship between my Father and my Aunt is bad, this is my first time being here. After all, my debut will be smoother with Aunt's support, so Father has deemed it necessary for us to pay her a visit."
"I have also just arrived here earlier today."
"Oh, is that so? What a pity! I heard that Aunt is resting in her room, so I wanted to find out more about her. Then, do you also not know about Aunt's 'REGARD' necklace?"
A necklace that was made from various types of gems, and when the first letter of the name of each gem was connected, it would form a word. As it was normally used to show a person's love for their counterpart, it would usually form the word 'REGARD'.
"I've heard that it was an exquisite piece of jewelry. Even though my honorable Aunt's gems are first grade, what's so special about the necklace is its floral design, and the fact that hundreds of five different gems were used to create it. Have you seen it before?"
She hasn't even stepped one foot into the Countess' room yet. Lydia shook her head.
"Apparently it was a present from her late husband. I wonder if I can borrow it before I head for the palace?"
What kind of expensive jewelry was it like? Even Lydia couldn't imagine.
A place where young maidens with that kind of accessories gather, that was the noble society.
Even though Edgar planned on bringing Lydia to that place, but beautiful dresses, shoes, and expensive jewelry were just her accessories as a bride.
Can she, who hadn't made any preparations, really live in that place?
When she thought about it, she suddenly felt that maybe Countess Othred didn't want to let a commoner girl like Lydia enter the world of nobles.
By inviting a born noble like Lucinda, and her fiance, did Countess Othred want to show Lydia an official marruage between nobles?
Or was it to show Lydia her place as a commoner by making her work as a lowly maid? If that is true, then no mater how hard she tried, she wouldn't be acknowledged.
… No, that's impossible. I will be acknowledged if I try hard enough.
She said to herself, as if trying to chase her depressed feelings away, and left Lucinda's room.
However, she couldn't stiffle her sigh.
"Hm, so this is bridal training."
She mumbled softly, and after checking to see that there wasn't anyone else around, sighed loudly again.
As she wandered listlessly to Madam Boyre's side, she could hear the telltale noises of an approaching carriage. Maybe another guest has arrived. She looked outside the window.
It must be the other guest Lucinda had mentioned.
What kind of person would he be like? She suddenly felt very curious, and started to pay attention to the newcomer.
As the carriage door opened, her gaze landed on the man that alighted the carriage. She gasped, but quickly muffled it by covering her mouth with her hand.
From his hat to his shoes, even his tall and slender figure, all of them were extremely familiar to Lydia. She couldn't have mistaken him for anyone else.
"… Edgar?"
Lydia quickly hid behind the curtains. The oblivious Edgar and Raven walked towards the door, where Madam Boyre waited.
"Why is it… Edgar?"
Lydia tried to calm herself down. Even though he's here, it doesn't mean that he's Lucinda's fiance.
That's right. That sort of thing is impossible.
Because he's Lydia's fiance.
Edgar knew about Lydia's plans to stay in Countess Othred's mansion as she learned about noble social etiquette. Maybe he had some matters to discuss with the Countess.
Or… maybe he received notice from the Duchess of Maysfield, and has come to visit her.
"…. Maybe he's come to see me."
Even so, Lydia couldn't feel happy at his arrival. She didn't want Edgar to see her work as a maid, after all.
It didn't matter whether it was under Madam Othred's orders, or if it was an important part of her bridal training. She didn't want to meet him if she didn't at least look presentable.
Before, Lydia had never cared about her appearance; but now, she was afraid that if she wasn't pretty enough, Edgar's feelings for her may disappear. Among her feelings for him, Lydia strongly didn't want to see him right now.
With Madam Boyre's words of welcome in her ears, she fled through the servant's passageway.
***** ****** ******
Edgar, who had already planned on meeting with Countess Othred, still thought that Lydia was only supposed to arrive on the week after.
If Lydia was to have a smooth and successful debut into the noble society, she had to have the praise of elder noble women.
Edgar didn't have the chance to know Countess Othred personally, so he had to ask for the Duchess of Maysfield's help. Even so, he wanted to meet her.
Also, soon there would be another inportant guest who will arrive.
However, when he arrived, he found out that he wasn't allowed to meet the Countess. Edgar, who had already made preparations, was now out of ideas. He didn't expect Countess Othred to suddenly fall ill, and the fact that Lord Constable and his daughter will also be staying at Madam Othred's mansion was also very unexpected.
Unfortunately, it seemed as though Lord Constable still thought of Edgar as the man who tried to woo his daughter, as Miss Lucinda seemed reluctant to explain everything to her father.
To avoid any misunderstandings, he had planned on explaining everything to Countess Othred before Lydia's arrival. However, now, he was stumped.
Gazing at Countess Othred's garden through the glass window, he sighed loudly and mumbled.
"I wonder what Lydia is doing right now."
"Normally, she would be having her tea by now."
His faithful servant answered, glancing at his pocket watch he fished from inside his coat pocket.
Becauae if she were to live in the Maysfield household, she would have had to live an organised life. However…
"No, Raven, Lydia must be thinking about me as she performs her duties."
"That… what?"
Even though they were already engaged, just like how Raven couldn't answer him, Edgar still couldn't fully understand Lydia's feelings.
She was a girl that he had wooed incessantly due to his own desire for her.
Of course, Lydia didn't agree to marry him just because she got annoyed at his incessant advances. She must have been at least a little attracted to him.
However, when it came to passionate love, she was still lacking.
For example, he has never heard her say things like "I love you". When they were alone, and when Edgar wanted to be intimate with her, she would calmly reciprocate his actions.
She must have thought that since they were already engaged, it would be rude of her to reject his advances.
Even so, it did not matter any more. Edgar had already started to think differently than before.
All of his wishes were irrelevant, as long as Lydia was by his side. That was Edgar's biggest wish.
"If you want to be loved, you cannot love. That's the basis of love. After all, if you fall in love first, then it's already hopeless."
Until now, Edgar had always treated love like a game. However, with Lydia, everything was different. It was undeniable that he wanted to be loved, but he simply couldn't act cool around her.
In the end, he loved seeing the abashed and clueless Lydia try to reciprocate his feelings.
However, he still felt somewhat unsatisfied.
"If she said that she wanted to see me, I would immediately rush to her side."
They haven't seen each other for quite some time, but he still hasn't heard Lydia say anything of that sort.
"Then why didn't you go and see her?"
Raven seemed like he was dissatisfied.
"Once I see her, I'll want to kiss her. And you said so youself, that I shouldn't bother Lydia too much."
"I think that as long as it isn't too annoying, then it should be fine."
"Raven, those things aren't irritating. It's just that Lydia is a little shy in these matters. "
"… hmm."
"Also, Lydia has been so shy that she's neglected me, so I simply can't control myself when I'm around her."
However, most likely, she wouldn’t feel even a little happy at that.
In the Countess' yard, near the woods, he saw a maid with pigtails that looked as though she was lost, and was pacing in an agitated manner. At that time, the thought of that maid being his fiancée never crossed his mind, and Edgar simply imagined her as Lydia, who always held her head low.
***** ***** ***** ****
Lydia, who had been ordered to pluck some roses as there wasn't enough to decorate the dining table, had been pacing aimlessly, not knowing where the rose garden was.
"This garden is huge!"
But which way was the rose garden? There wasn't anyone else around so she couldn't even ask for directions.
Just as she was thinking about what to do next, a wild rabbit darted across the flower patches.
"Wait! I want to ask you something!"
Lydia hurriedly gave chase, and the rabbit stopped to look back.
(You can see me?)
It was a fairy wearing a rabbit's skin. However, normal people will still see it as a wild rabbit.
"Where is the rose garden?"
(The rose garden? Are you planning on stealing our precious roses?)
"Um, I never planned on stealing anything."
(You little thief! Whoever that asks about the rose garden is a dirty little thief!)
The fairy that looked like a rabbit, in his anger, had caused his rabbit ears, his brown coat of fur, and even his boots that looked like a rabbit's hind legs to fall off, revealing his true appearance.
It was a Danish fairy.
Lydia tried to calm the fairy down as she observed.
"I'm a fairy doctor."
(Fairy doctor? Hmph, can humans, who say anything they like, be trusted? Hah! Those that cannot keep their secrets cannot enter the rose garden!)
Afyer saying that, the fairy vanished into the woods.
"Fairies are the ones who talk too much."
Frustrated, she started to mumble.
"What were you talking about with the rabbit?"
An unfamiliar voice came from behind her.
Lydia turned her head and spotted a young servant.
"That, just now…"
"Were you talking to yourself? Ah, you wanted to complain, right? Madam Boyre really is too strict!"
This young man most likely was shirking his duties. There were blades of grass that stuck to his short hair as well as his work clothes, and he also smelled of tobacco.
"You're the new maid Lydia, right? I'm Billy."
Even though he gave the impression of a cold person, he looked very friendly when he smiled.
"It's nice to meet you."
The young lad looked at Lydia weirdly.
"Now that we're acquainted, I wonder how long will you last here? Usually, the maids here quit after a while."
"Oh? Is that so?"
"Yeah. I wonder if the mistress here has changed? Maybe that's why they keep hiring new maids."
It looks like the Countess had conveniently used her to temporarily fill up the vacancy.
As she was pondering, Billy suddenly grabbed ahold of her hand.
"Such pretty hands! Are you a lady that's been forced to work for some reason? Why would you come to this place then?"
Lydia, who had quickly retracted her hand, asked him where the rose garden was at.
"It's at the end of the pathway with the gorse flowers."
"Thank you, I still have work to do. Good bye."
Lydia ran off, but even as she rounded a corner, she could still feel Billy staring at her direction.
Even so, she still found rose garden right ahead - just as Billy said she would.
Roses that wound around the white stone pillars formed an arch overhead. With that as an entrance, as she stepped inside, she saw a fountain with a Saint Maria's statue surrounded by colorful flower patches.
Now that she thought about it, she realised that it was too early for the roses to bloom. If she had wanted to pluck some roses, she should have went to the greenhouse instead. But just as she thought about turning back, she was distracted by something, and she lingered.
In a corner of the rose garden, was a tall tree. In its shadow, Lydia could vaguely see a floating myriad of colours, just like a miniature aurora.
What is that? Lydia drew closer.
She crouched down, and saw some ivy that came from goodness knows where wrapped around a rose in the space hidden between the tree and another patch of flowers. As she moved closer, her foot sank downwards.
Instantly, Lydia fell into what seemed like a trap.
It was all thanks to the velvety soft grass that broke her fall that prevented her from from getting injured. But really, what a mysterious cave it was.
The tunnel connected to the cave was small and narrow, and made Lydia think that it a passage was meant for fairies.
The pit was slightly deeper than the height of an average person, and the floating lights were right above Lydia's head. It must be the magic cast by the fairies to hide the cave entrance.
It seemed that Lydia, who could already see fairies, had accidentally stumbled upon this place. Up ahead, she could see a tunnel that looked as though it was recently dug up. It was undoubtedly a pathway for fairies.
Lydia felt a strong desire to see where it lead to.
All sides of the tunnel were covered in cotton grass, even the ceiling, so it looked like a green tunnel.
Lydia continued forward.
Not long after, she saw a ray of light at the end of the tunnel. Just as she wanted to hasten her footsteps, she heard a voice that came from nowhere.
(Hey, what is it that you desire?)
Fairies!
It must be the Danish fairies, Lydia thought.
Now that she thought about it, the fairies had been very angry when they found out that Lydia was looking for the rose garden.
(Since you've already found this place, we have no choice. We'll fulfill your wish, then leave this place!)
It seems that the area beyond was their territory, and they were trying to chase away the intruder.
However, Lydia's a fairy doctor, and had known how to deal with this situation.
That was to ignore tham, and not respond to their inquiries.
Because to punish the intruder, the fairies will look for an opening to cast their magic.
(We can fulfill any wish. Just say it! And it will be reality.)
Those that find it hard to keep their mouths shut cannot enter the rose garden. The fairy from before had said.
It's true that it's just as easy as blurting it out. Even if one didn't believe that their wish would come true, they still might be lured into revealing it.
However, once the wish is revealed, bad things would surely befall the person due to the fairies' magic.
Lydia silently walked towards the light.
That place was undoubtedly the 'Rose Garden'.
The Danish fairies' secret rose garden.
In the centre, there were countless blooming roses that were blanketed by a thin layer of mist.
All of the flowers looked like they exuded a soft glow, and when Lydia touched them, she felt as though the cool and soft petals had caressed her fingers. The rose's petals looked glossy, colourful and slightly translucent, and they were as soft as a swan's down.
Once Lydia reached the centre of the rose garden, it seemed as though the fairies had given up, and their presence disappeared.
Thank goodness, Lydia thought as she continued to explore.
"So pretty…"
She forgot all about her errand, and merely gazed at the beautiful roses.
"Oh, how rare! A guest?"
It was the voice of a lady. Lydia turned and was shocked by the presence of a human in the fairies' garden.
"Um, I'm very sorry for trespassing. "
It was a middle aged lady wearing a straw hat. Her face was tanned, she wore a dirty apron and had a watering can in her hand. She had on her neck a beautiful necklace made from various flowers, with a scarlet rose at the centre.
"It's all right. I'm just a gardener."
Lydia has never heard of fairies hiring humans to be their gardeners.
"But, this is the first time I've seen another person in this place."
True. Even Lydia herself didn't expect to see anyone else here.
"This must be the fairies' garden."
Needles to say, the woman must have known already. She merely smiled as she nodded.
"Do you already know the way to this place?"
"Yes, because I am a fairy doctor."
"Wow, so fairy doctors do exist! I thought that they were myths."
The lady's pale green eyes, filled with curiosity, was directed at Lydia in a stare, and she invited Lydia over to a small cottage for some tea.
"I apologise. We only have rose tea here."
"It's my favourite."
"That's good, Miss…?"
"Lydia."
"I'm Virginia. Nice to meet you."
What had looked like a small garden shed on the outside, actually seemed very tidy on the inside. The potted plants and the dried flower specimens were well placed and adorable, so the interior looked like a simple cottage from the countryside.
The round wooden table and chairs were warm and cozy, and when she saw the ladder that lead upstairs, she imagined that there was a bedroom at the second floor.
"Actually, I live here." The lady offered just as Lydia's head filled up witb questions.
"All alone?"
"As long as I am unable to cultivate a new specie if roses, I cannot leave this place."
"Is it because of the fairies' magic?"
The lady nodded, gazing at a little vase decorated with coral-coloured roses.
According to the woman who loved caring for the roses, she had once been the gardener that tended to Countess Othred's rose garden. As she tended to them, she would also perform research on new species of roses, and spent most of her time trying to improve them.
Not long after, she heard from her master, the previous Earl of Othred, about the fairies' garden which was situated somewhere on this land.
"I've heard about a legend. It says that it would be better to have this if you wish to enter the fairies' garden."
Virginia lightly touched the flower necklace.
"Also, they told me that I shouldn't say a word when the fairies ask about my wish. At that time, I didn't really believe this old myth, but I still tried it. But after I found this place, I started to come here every day."
A garden with roses that bloom all year round. These mysterious roses wilt immediately after they are brought to the human world, and even if you bring a seed with you, it will not germinate outside of this garden. That's why even the most exotic roses couldn't be brought out yo be studied, the woman explained.
"My desire to cultivate new, exotic roses, to tend to them, and to watch them bloom under my care became stronger as the days went by. And in the end, I answered the voices that inquired about my wish."
It seems that for her to make her wish come true, she became the fairies' gardener.
The fairies must have known about how passionate the lady was about roses and her skill in making roses bloom. So they didn't use any sort of magic to cause her any misfortune, but instead had formed a contract with her.
"However, the life here isn't bad at all. Once a new rose blooms, the fairies will be very happy. In turn, I will be able to return to the human world, and continue living as I normally would. However, after a few days, I will return here of my own accord, as I have already fallen in love with this place."
Whenever the lady wanted to return to the human world, she would have to breed a new species of roses.
The rose tea was elegant and wonderfully fragrant. The opening of the rose buds, was like the sigh of a beautiful rose.
At that moment, all of Lydia's worries disappeared without a trace.
