In the eastern part of the Central Continent lies the Mesaria Kingdom.

Even further east, at the border of the magical wilderness, is the newly established duchy of Riana.

Recently, in the capital city of this territory, a certain rumor has been spreading.

“Lady Seriana shone like a goddess…”

The source of this rumor originated from the Commercial Guild, specifically the day after a party held mid-month at the lord’s mansion situated on a hill.

The rumor spread from those who attended the party, and now nearly every notable person in the city has heard it at least once.

Although it is rare for Seriana to descend into the city, those residing in the capital occasionally catch glimpses of her during New Year celebrations or commemorative festivals. Known as a renowned beauty in the eastern regions for years, her beauty has never been a topic of debate.

Even after giving birth to two children last year, she continues to boast unparalleled beauty that lives up to her reputation.

However, such a rumor had never arisen before now.

◇

In the residential district near the noble quarter of the capital city, the area is well-maintained, safe, and highly sought after—an exclusive neighborhood where only select residents can afford to live.

During the day, the area bustles with activity, but by nightfall, it becomes quiet and serene.

Among the homes in this area is a particular mansion.

The owner of this mansion is the head of a longstanding merchant association that has operated since the territory was known as the Zelkis domain and referred to as Lutrul.

His wife volunteers at the relief hospital, and his daughter works as a servant at the lord’s mansion. Despite the modest size of the merchant association, the family holds considerable influence within the city. They are considered one of the leading figures in the community.

However, this influence is limited to local matters. Though the merchant has connections within the Commercial Guild, he holds no authority to influence broader matters and does not possess the status to attend events like the lord’s parties.

Naturally, he was not present at the aforementioned party.

Although he wanted to confirm the rumor by meeting with attendees associated with the Commercial Guild, others had the same idea, making it difficult to arrange such meetings. Moreover, he wished to avoid owing favors to his peers if possible.

Still, he knew it was only a matter of time before outsiders would inquire about the rumors. He couldn’t afford to simply relay secondhand hearsay in such situations.

“Father, what is it you wish to discuss? You wouldn’t have summoned me otherwise, would you?”

Thus, the man summoned his daughter to his study, hesitating briefly before directly asking her about the rumor. He didn’t expect a straightforward answer but felt it was worth a try.

“Have you heard the rumors about Lady Seriana circulating in the city?”

Hearing this, his daughter frowned with a hint of exasperation.

“Mother already asked me about this as well. I’ve told you countless times that I cannot reveal anything that happens at the mansion. Isn’t that clear?”

The same exchange had occurred countless times last year when Seriana was pregnant. Yet, she never disclosed a single detail.

The lord of Riana, Duke Liesel, is a direct descendant of the royal family. Even though his daughter was “just a servant,” serving under him was considered the highest honor for a commoner woman.

Such a position demanded strict discipline, which she had been rigorously trained for from the start. No matter how trivial the information—even if it was already public knowledge—leaking it was strictly forbidden.

“I thought as much… What about Sera? Can you share anything about her?”

Sera, a peculiar girl with connections to the heart of the rumor, was primarily stationed in the southern wing but occasionally appeared in the main building, mainly near the office or the underground training grounds.

Currently, Sera’s status is that of Seriana’s personal subordinate, exclusive adventurer, and mansion servant. She lives in Seriana’s room and has unrestricted access to the lord’s chambers.

Rumor had it she would soon be adopted into Seriana’s family, the Müller household. This, coupled with her connections to the queen and other high-ranking nobles, made her a mysterious figure.

Even so, Sera wasn’t part of the lord’s family but merely a servant.

“My answer remains the same. I cannot divulge any details about matters within the mansion.”

His daughter replied firmly and continued:

“If you have something to inquire of the lord or his family, you should follow proper procedures. Even if they refuse, it’s better than sneaking around like this. Neither of them would take offense at a formal approach. But this underhanded behavior? That would certainly anger them.”

“…You make a fair point.”

Murmuring his agreement, the man dismissed his daughter.

Although she didn’t confirm or deny the rumors, her lack of denial spoke volumes. Additionally, her proximity to the lord and Seriana provided valuable insight.

Realizing he wouldn’t gain any leverage over others in this matter, he was relieved that his daughter’s position wasn’t in vain. With a sigh, he picked up a pen and began drafting a letter.

◇

“Excuse me.”

A maid entered Seriana’s room, carrying a tray piled with letters.

After bowing, she placed them on Seriana’s desk and began to leave.

“Wait. This won’t take long—stay here for now.”

Seriana instructed the maid to remain, then handed the letters to Elena and Teresa to open. After receiving them back, she began drafting replies.

The maid, observing the room discreetly, noticed Sera lounging on a guest sofa, reading a book—a familiar sight. Redirecting her gaze to Seriana’s desk, she saw Seriana glance at Sera and call her over.

After exchanging a few words with Sera, Seriana resumed her task.

“Thank you for waiting. Please take these with you.”

It took Seriana less than 10 minutes to reply to all the letters—none of which seemed particularly important.

——————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Sera: 【Hideout】 +1 【Prayer】【Mira’s Blessing】【Wind’s Garment】・【Floating Orb】 +1 【Shadow Sword】【Scarlet Bee Needle】【Fairy’s Eye】【Dragon’s Lung】【Amber Sword】【Danrem’s Thread】【Snake’s Tail】【Ankle Bracelet】【Amber Shield】【Purple Wings】・15 cards

Seriana: 【Area Identification】・【】・28 cards

Elena: 【】・【Green Fang】【Amber Sword】・4 cards

Alec: 【Strong Strike】・【Red Shield】【Fierce Horned Trumpet】・8 cards