"How was your little outing?" Maxson asked, lounging on the couch with the woman who’d supposedly "visited" him now perched on his lap.
*Ugh. They definitely did something while I was gone.*
"It was fine, Sire," I replied, grabbing a bottle of wine from the table and pouring myself a glass.
"Did you visit your family?" He raised a brow, pulling the woman—who was clearly basking in his attention—closer.
I looked away.
"They weren’t in Hiyosko. Must’ve gone back to Saido City already." I picked up a cloth and wiped the monster’s blood off my sword.
Maxson didn’t respond, but the woman’s flirtatious laughter—and other *unmistakable* sounds—filled the room. *Disgusting.*
*I swear, this man is incorrigible. Lucky for him, I still tolerate his nonsense.*
---
What’s Our Connection, Anyway?
Well… Maxson is the heir to Saido City’s wealthiest merchant family. Our parents happened to know each other, and mine had urgent business that kept them from attending as Hiyosko’s guests. Since they were only here to watch the exam, they sent me in their place—*with Maxson*. Of course, we arrived late and missed the event entirely.
Now, why do I look like his attendant? Simple: I owe him a debt. And he decided to toy with me. The deal? I serve him while we’re here, addressing him *formally* at all times. Infuriating, but I have no choice. The debt’s too big to ignore.
*Honestly, I’d love to break every bone in his body.*
---
I left without another word, heading to my room—*far* from his. I’d specifically requested distance. Otherwise, the sounds from his quarters would keep me awake all night. *Good luck to whoever’s stuck next to him.*
On the way, I spotted the Duchess of Vrandairo approaching alone. No guards. Odd, but none of my business.
"Duchess." I bowed respectfully.
"Oh! You’re Nyssa, aren’t you? From the Hoda family—one of Saido’s noble houses." Her smile was honeyed.
I nodded, returning the smile. "I’m honored you know of my family."
"Of course! I used to visit your mansion when you were just a child."
"You knew my parents personally?"
"Yes. Your mother and I were friends. We took the same etiquette lessons for noble ladies." Her eyes softened with nostalgia.
"It’s a pleasure to meet you here, Duchess. If you have time, would you join me for tea at our mansion?"
She laughed, radiant as a goddess. "Thank you for the invitation, Miss Nyssa. If my schedule allows, I’d love to. For now, I must rest. It was lovely meeting you." She bowed, and I mirrored the gesture before we parted ways.
*Not a bad acquaintance to have.*
---
Back in my room, I showered, changed into sleepwear, and collapsed onto the bed. Too exhausted to eat, I let sleep take me.
But my mind lingered on that man from earlier—the one who’d looked at me like...
*Like he knew me.*
---
THE NEXT MORNING
I woke early to explore the city and shop. After a quick shower, I dressed in a fitted black dress with long sleeves and a slit up each thigh for mobility. Knee-high heeled boots, dark red lipstick, and a dagger strapped to my thigh completed the look. *Never unarmed.*
The hallway was empty as I headed to the kitchen. The chefs greeted me warmly.
"Any fruit?"
"Apples and others, Miss," one replied. I grabbed an apple and thanked them before stepping outside.
It was just past seven, and most guests were still asleep—*late, by my standards.*
---
Training Grounds
The streets were lively with vendors and early risers. A familiar, comforting scene.
I wandered until I reached the squads’ training area. The guard at the gate was half-asleep, so I slipped in unnoticed and took a seat on the bleachers.
The trainees showed potential, though some were stiff. Then two men entered—one with green-tipped wavy hair, the other with long, dark locks.
*The ones who fought that monster yesterday.*
They’d held back then, likely to avoid harming the hostages.
*Tch. A few cuts wouldn’t have killed them.*
Their arrival intensified the training. The long-haired man wore a captain’s insignia.
*Ah. That explains it.*
"Sh—" I nearly cursed as a sword flew toward me. I dodged just in time.
"S-Sorry! A-Are you okay?!" A flustered girl stammered.
I picked up her sword and approached. "You weren’t trying to kill me, were you?"
She bowed deeply. "I didn’t mean to! My grip slipped!"
*Amateur.*
"Whatever." I handed back her sword, and she took it with trembling hands.
The two men approached. Their expressions were unreadable—*like they recognized me.*
"Apologies for the incident. I’ll discipline her," the long-haired man said, his gaze locked on mine. He seemed to hesitate, as if holding back words.
"No need. I’m unharmed." I tilted my head. "Your name?"
A pause. "Zeid Chen. Squad 4 Captain."
"Chen? That clan." I turned to the other. "And you?"
"Ren Sayaka. Squad 4 Lieutenant."
I smiled. "Pleasure. I’m Nyssa Hoda—one of the exam’s guests. Maxson and I missed the event, so we’re touring Hiyosko instead."
They exchanged a glance, a silent conversation passing between them.
Interesting.
"Well, I’ll take my leave. See you, Captain Chen, Lieutenant Ren." I saluted and walked off, grinning.
Fascinating people.
But something’s off. They act like they know me—especially the captain.
What aren’t they saying?
Deep down, I’m curious.