I was reincarnated as a granddaughter who was being used by a duke, so I decide to fight for a happy ending -Web Novel

I was reincarnated as a granddaughter who was being used by a duke, so I decide to fight for a happy ending.

Written By- Up Down Left Right

Japanese Name: 【短編版】公爵に利用されていた孫娘に転生したので、ハッピーエンドのために戦います　～「君を愛するつもりはない」と私を捨てた貧乏公爵を後悔させ、王子から溺愛されます～

Synopsis : Cynthia spent the remainder of her natural life in the kingdom as a successful trader. She discovers that she has been reincarnated as Clarice when she awakens.

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I was reincarnated as a granddaughter who was being used by a duke, so I decide to fight for a happy ending.

Written By- Up Down Left Right

(My life has ended so far...)

 

　Cynthia, who has developed the kingdom as a merchant, is over 80 years old and about to end her long life due to old age.

 

　A large number of people are gathered in the hospital room, where the walls are painted white and the smell of chemicals wafts through the air. Kings and ministers who rule the kingdom, and even emperors from the empire, visited here.

 

(I was able to fulfill my duties as a merchant and develop the kingdom. It was a good life.)

 

　She scans the faces of the visitors who have come to see her dying, searching for her family. His son Rudolph has tears on his dignified face. It was the first time I had seen him cry as an adult.

 

(Rudolph is strong, so I'm sure he'll recover quickly...)

 

　My son will follow in Cynthia's footsteps and continue to grow the company.

 

(My only regret is...)

 

　It's the presence of my granddaughter Clarice, who is not here. She is a kind girl, but recently she has become depressed and withdrawn to her room. She wanted to help, but there was nothing Cynthia could do as she couldn't move her body.

 

(I left Clarice in charge)

 

　When I appealed to Rudolph with my eyes, he nods his head repeatedly, perhaps noticing my gaze. Relief dyed Cynthia's vision white, and her life came to an end.

 

　●

 

"I'm not going to love you"

 

　When Cynthia woke up, it was a scene of chaos. A handsome-looking man with raised eyebrows was making an irritated noise.

 

(This face is somewhere...)

 

　As I searched my memory, what came to mind was the face of Leopard, the only son of the Duke Krumens family.

 

　However, in her memory, he was a much younger boy. The man in front of him had grown taller, with beautiful black hair and dark eyes, and a bewitching look on his face. There was a discrepancy between his face and his memories as he grew into a young man.

 

"Are you listening to me, Clarice?"

"Clarice?"

“Did you forget your own name?”

 

　Leopard snorted and laughed, but Cynthia was far from it.

 

(No way...)

 

　I felt a sense of discomfort with the lower-than-usual gaze. Her gaze wanders around her and she realizes that this is Clarice's private room. If it's a young lady's room, there should be at least one mirror somewhere.

 

(I found!)

 

　Pick up the hand mirror that was placed on the desk. What was reflected there was the grown-up image of her granddaughter, Clarice.

 

"Ugh..."

 

　The moment I saw his face, my headache went away, and at the same time Clarice's memories flooded into my head like a flash of light.

 

　The fact that Cynthia had passed away, that she had broken away from being a recluse and started attending the school, and even the reason for the chaos were all engraved in her mind.

 

　Although it was painful, I fully grasped the current situation. This is a world five years after Cynthia's death, and she has been reincarnated as her granddaughter, Clarice.

 

(If it weren't for me, who has overcome many challenges, I would be panicking.)

 

　Cynthia, who has led the company, is quick to accept irrational realities. He takes a deep breath and turns to face the man in front of him.

 

“Are you feeling unwell?”

"No, the headache has subsided now. Let's get back to the topic. You say you'll never love me, but I don't care at all."

"Really⁉"

"Yes, I won't love you either. We're mutual."

 

　As Clarice's memories flowed into her head, she was also able to learn about her relationship with Leopard. They were both engaged to her.

 

　There's a reason why two people who don't love each other got engaged. After Cynthia passed away, the company she ran lost momentum.

 

　Although it is still the largest trading company in the kingdom, its connections with upper aristocrats have weakened and sales have declined.

 

(Rudolph had top-notch business sense, but he was clumsy when dealing with aristocrats.)

 

　Therefore, Rudolf set his sights on the Krumenz family, which was famous as a poor aristocracy. If the two families agree on a marriage agreement, he will become a relative of the duke's family. He becomes a highly respected figure even in aristocratic social gatherings.

 

　On the other hand, there will also be benefits for the Krumenz family. If he takes Clarice as his wife, he can receive financial support from the Chamber of Commerce. You can escape from a life of poverty.

 

(For the sake of my granddaughter, I guess I need to act well.)

 

　Although Cynthia has been reincarnated, she does not know when she will attain Buddhahood and leave this world. She wanted to make the world easier for Clarice to live in while she could stay.

 

"I was saved because Clarice was a person who had the understanding. Now I can be happy with the person I truly love."

"Hmm? What do you mean?"

"So you just agreed that you wouldn't love each other."

"Yes, but that is a different story. Cheating is not allowed."

“Huh!?”

 

　Leopard raised his voice, perhaps because it was an unexpected answer.

 

"If I were to be cheated on, there would be a bad reputation for letting my husband play outside. We don't love each other, but I won't allow him to have another mistress."

“Are you trying to tie me down?!”

"Yes. It's only natural since we're going to be husband and wife."

 

　Leopard seemed unable to accept Cynthia's words as if they were obvious, and bit his lower lip with a dissatisfied expression on his face.

 

“If you can’t accept it, wouldn’t it be okay to break off the engagement?”

"Are you okay?"

"There are other poor nobles. I will marry another lord. Of course, in that case, I will collect the support money from my company."

“My family is in dire straits. Isn’t this the equivalent of my family being held hostage?”

"Then why don't you hand over the headship of the family to your younger brother? If you are no longer the lord, you won't have to marry me."

 

　However, if that happens, he will no longer be able to live as the heir to the ducal family. Like the second sons without the headship of the family, they have to support themselves by working in the city or joining the military.

 

"In my opinion, you're a typical idiot son. If you give up the headship of the family, you'll fall to the point of failure."

"Sorry! I have the talent to be the next lord!"

“If there is such a thing, why not ask for our family’s financial support and get engaged?”

"Uh, it's so loud! Shut up! Shut up!"

“……”

"Don't really shut up!"

"You're a person with a lot of orders...Anyway, you have one of two choices. You can either break off the engagement and be prepared to lose your way, or you can work hard to maintain a good marital relationship with me. You can choose whichever you like. I'm kind, so I'll accept either."

“…What’s so kind about you?”

"Did you say something?"

"Nothing else..."

 

　Cynthia was enjoying the conversation as if admonishing a child. If you become her husband, it will be easy to control him. She's not a bad fiancée.

 

"Hehe, well, I have threatened you many times, but I believe that you will not cheat on me. I look forward to your continued support."

"Ah, ah"

 

　Leopard smiles nervously. There were complex emotions hidden behind that expression.

 

　●

 

　After the discussion, Leopard leaves the room, and Rudolph, Cynthia's son and Clarice's father, appears to take his place. I could tell from his worried expression how he was feeling.

 

“How was Duke Leopard?”

"I guess he grew up being spoiled by those around him. He has a lot of pride and has a difficult personality."

"I-I see...if Clarice doesn't want to get married, then I..."

"No, let's proceed with this engagement as is."

“You don’t have to force yourself, okay?”

"I sincerely want him. After all, it's easy to manipulate someone with high self-esteem. If it's going to benefit the company, there's no one more suitable than him."

 

　Even if the engagement is called off, if Leopard isn't at fault, there's no point in it. In the current situation, Cynthia had no intention of asking him to break off the engagement.

 

“I thought she was a quiet girl, but now she’s starting to resemble Clarice’s late grandmother.”

“Is that a compliment?”

"Of course. He was better than me."

 

　A wry smile appears on Cynthia's lips. She is who she really is, but she does not reveal it to Rudolph.

 

　Although it wasn't what she wanted, she would definitely be shocked if she learned that her daughter's body was taken away from her. For now, I was still planning on keeping it a secret.

 

(Besides, I will also attain Buddhahood someday...)

 

　I can't predict how long this reincarnation phenomenon will last, but it must come to an end someday. That's why he wished to be of some help to his granddaughter and Rudolph while he remained in this world.

 

"Well, whatever the reason, if Clarice likes it, that's all that matters. With this, the company's business should go well."

 

　Rudolph's expression shows fatigue. He is top notch in terms of talent alone, but he still lacks experience as a manager. Five years have passed since he lost Cynthia and took over the company, but problems have piled up amid the unfamiliar management.

 

“If your father seems tired, how about I take over his work?”

“Hahaha, I guess your expression showed it to the point that even my daughter was worried about you… But my feelings are enough. After all, the strike that occurred at the factory owned by the company is a cause for concern. There’s nothing Clarice can do. ”

"is that so……"

 

　When Cynthia was managing the company, strikes were often a problem. If factories stop working, sales will drop accordingly. However, if the company accepts all of the workers' demands, the company will not be able to survive. It's a problem that won't be easily solved.

 

"Excuse me, Clarice-sama's friend is here."

 

　A female servant will tell you through the door. Her friend had a clue. She is a commoner's daughter and her name is Sara. She was Clarice's only friend.

 

"That girl...she's the daughter of the head of the labor union, and above all, it's not a bad thing to know the diverse values ​​of commoners. Be nice to her."

"No, I can't. Sara is bullying me after all."

“What?!”

 

　Sara's presence was a major factor in Clarice's blockage. She couldn't break up with Cynthia because she was her only friend, but a friend who is harmful to Cynthia is not a friend. She decides to cut him off mercilessly.

 

“Is that story true?”

“What if I lie?”

"No, but...she seemed like a gentle girl."

"I'm just good at pretending to be a cat. If you're going to live as a manager in the future, please develop an eye for people."

"Ah, ah"

 

　All I could do was nod at his words, which didn't say whether or not I had a daughter. Meanwhile, Clarice begins setting up a crystal-shaped magic tool in the corner of the room.

 

　Magic tools are mysterious items that operate with magical power, and can exert various effects such as starting fire or brightening a room. The crystal-shaped magic tool installed had the ability to record and distribute video.

 

"What are you planning to do with that magic tool?"

"I'm going to prepare irrefutable evidence of bullying. Father, please wait in a separate room. I'll show you an interesting scene."

 

　The smile on Cynthia's lips was not that of a gentle girl, but that of an old merchant.

 

　●

 

　Guided by a servant, her friend Sarah enters Clarice's private room. She had a gentle smile on her face until the servant closed her door, but the moment it was closed, she frowned in anger.

 

"You've kept me waiting for quite some time. First of all, please apologize."

“Are you apologizing?”

"That's right! Dogeza as usual! Oh, that's right, don't forget to declare your absolute obedience."

 

　Sarah felt inferior to her commoner status. That's why she felt joy in making the aristocratic Clarisse declare her obedience and realizing that she was in a superior position.

 

"Now, hurry up and get down on the ground. You don't have any friends, so I've become your friend, so it's only natural that you should become my slave."

"..."

"Oh, and have me prepare sweets and juice. Don't forget the monthly friend fee."

 

　Cynthia was too stunned to say anything. As she remained silent, Sarah's displeased look grew worse.

 

"If you have something to say, say something!"

"Then feel free. I'd like to see the faces of the parents who raised such an insane child. I'm sure he'll be a good teacher."

"Ah, you... g-- this..."

 

　Apparently unable to bear Clarice's provocation, which she had ridiculed as being of a lower rank, Sara slapped her. A bright red mark was left on her cheek along with the sound of her clasp.

 

"You made fun of me at Clarice's discretion! You're disgusting! You're disgusting!"

 

　Sarah punches Cynthia in the stomach over and over again. The more scars there are, the more conclusive the evidence. As she was holding back, there was a knock on her door.

 

"I heard a noise, was something wrong?"

"N-no, I was just playing with Clarice."

 

　She panicked and tried to patch things up, but she couldn't hide the red marks on Cynthia's cheeks.

 

"Hey, you should just lie and say you fell down. If you're an idiot, I'm sure you'll believe me because it's entirely possible."

"Hehe, I refuse. Also, this is my return."

 

　Cynthia isn't naive enough to just let him get beaten up. With a loud crack, she explodes a slap onto Sarah's cheek.

 

　The sound triggered Rudolph to open the door. His cheeks turned red as he looked at the two children and realized the situation.

 

"So far everything has gone as planned...However, I should reflect on my lack of perspective on people."

“What do you mean?”

"It just means you've been a hell of a kid, Sarah."

 

　Realizing that she is being seen through, Sarah tries to protect herself by using circumstantial evidence to gain an advantage.

 

“That’s not true, Clarisse was the one who made the move first. Then I got angry and hit her back… I should have repented for hitting the noble lady, but I was the only one at fault. That’s not true.”

“That being said, does Clarice have a point?”

"You won't get anything from me."

 

　Sarah, who had been on guard, is thrown off by the sudden accusation. Her hips bucked at the very end.

 

　Sarah smiles that she has won, but in order to give her guidance, Cynthia stands up and points at her with a crystal-shaped magic tool that was placed at the end of the room.

 

"Well, even if I didn't come up with an excuse, everything in this room was being streamed and recorded."

“――――”

"Hehe, then Sarah. Shall we talk with an adult from now on?"

 

　She is different from the usual quiet young lady. Sara's lion-like grin as she cornered her prey made Sarah tremble.

 

　●

 

　When Sara's bullying is exposed with evidence, her father, Gran, is called to the mansion. A large, bearded man was the leader of the factory workers and also served as the head of the labor union.

 

"Mr. Rudolph, I heard that your daughter was being bullied. Is that true?"

 

　Sarah and her parents, Rudolph, and Cynthia are sitting at a table that seats four people. I'm skeptical of her story of bullying, believing in her daughter's innocence.

 

"First, I want you to see the video evidence."

 

　The records stored in the crystal are projected onto the wall. Gran's face turns pale at the sight of such a domineering image.

 

"I-I'm sorry!"

 

　Gran bowed his head after watching. Cynthia was the first to respond to the apology.

 

"I was very hurt. Your daughter made me lose faith in humanity, so this crime is serious."

“Of course I will prepare a consolation prize.”

"You committed violence against a nobleman. It's not a problem that can be solved with money. If it goes to court, in the worst case scenario, you could be sentenced to prison."

"--..."

 

　It's not a lie. In past court precedents, when the victim suffered serious injuries due to malicious bullying, the perpetrator was sentenced to life in prison.

 

(In this case, it was a slap and an insult, so I think a fine would be at best.However, there is no reason to go out of your way to tell him.)

 

　In order to advance negotiations advantageously, you must take the initiative. Sarah and her son looked down, imagining a gloomy future.

 

"Um, I apologize, and I want you to forgive me. I'll do whatever Clarice wants."

"There's nothing you can do... However, if it's your father Gran-sama, it might be a different story..."

“Is it me…I see…if I stop the strike, you can stop pursuing my daughter’s crimes?”

“Now, what do you mean?”

 

　If he affirms this, there is a risk that it will be interpreted as a threat. It is necessary to encourage Gran to act voluntarily.

 

"I understand. The decision to stop the strike was entirely my own. If you give me a few days, I will convince my colleagues."

 

　Gran had an answer as to which to prioritize, his daughter or his coworkers. He gets up from his seat to act immediately. On his way home, he smiles at Rudolph.

 

“If we have such a wonderful successor, the future of the company will be secure.”

"Ah. I think so too."

 

　Gran leaves, feeling reliable in Clarice. Rudolph's face also lost his worries and became brighter.

 

　●

 

"Duke Leopard's Point of View"

 

 

　After meeting Clarice, Leopard returns home with sweat on his forehead. When he opens the door to the mansion, he is greeted by a luxurious entrance, and all the furniture as far as the eye can see was purchased with support from the company.

 

　I return to my room feeling bitter about the current situation where I can't survive without the help of others. There, a beautiful woman with chestnut brown hair was waiting for him to return.

 

"Leopard, you're late."

“I kept you waiting, Chariante.”

 

　The girl called Chariante was Leopard's affair partner. With her bare chest exposed and giving off a bewitching aura, she is so beautiful that any man would stretch his nose at her. She sat down next to her and let out a small sigh.

 

"You're tired, aren't you?"

“A lot of things happened.”

“So, how was your fiancée, Clarice?”

“It was an unexpected display of humanity…”

"He's always reading at the edge of the classroom. He's the kind of person you don't see very often in aristocratic society."

"It's true that he has an unusual personality. But it's not because he's gentle or secretive or anything like that. If he shows an opening, he could get eaten by us. He's someone you can't let your guard down against."

"Hmm."

 

　Chariante is skeptical of its contents. Her classmate knew of Clarice's existence, but she knew that she was as weak as a puppy.

 

“Are you by any chance reluctant to make plans with me?”

"To be honest, I'm a little afraid..."

 

　His plan is to marry Clarice and receive financial support, while behind the scenes he spends his days with Chariante.

 

　In short, they intended to use Clarice as a money vine.

 

"Well, I can't accept that."

"I guess it can't be helped. If my affair is exposed, that woman will come to ruin my position as the next lord. A noble who can't become a lord is a terrible person. I'd rather not become a servant of another noble or work in the army. But do you think I can do the manual labor?"

"I don't think so."

"Elites like me should live using our heads. That's why I can't give up the position of lord. Especially if I'm disowned for having an affair, the worst thing I can do is not even serve in the nobility or the military, and I'll be treated like a commoner. I'm stuck working at work. I'm sure I can't stand the miserable days."

 

　If you hire a man who has a tendency to cheat, it will cause trouble. It would be a different story if he had outstanding talent, but Leopard doesn't have any outstanding abilities other than his looks, so that would be difficult.

 

“Is it okay for me to become like a commoner?”

"I absolutely hate it."

"I don't like it either. That's why I have to protect my position as a lord."

 

　Leopard is hunched over to protect his position. His attitude moved Chariante.

 

"Then please leave it to me. I'll take action."

“What are you going to do?”

"Hehe, it's a secret."

 

　Chariante leaves the room humming. She called out to the girl who was in a good mood, but she started moving and didn't stop.

 

　●

 

(It's a boring night)

 

　In a marble hall with a hanging chandelier, Cynthia was leaning against the wall. This place is a place for interaction between upper class aristocrats. It is a night party venue.

 

　The main purpose of young women attending evening parties is to find the opposite sex. She's just boring to Cynthia, who already has a fiancé named Leopard, but since she's Rudolph's chaperone, she can't help but participate.

 

(It's annoying that you can't leave until your father returns.)

 

　It's an event that has no benefit for Cynthia, but it's a different story for Rudolph, who accompanies her. This is because it is a chance to deepen interactions with the relatives of the upper class aristocrats who are also accompanying them.

 

(He is immediately making effective use of his connection with the Krumens family.)

 

　In terms of peerage in the kingdom, dukes, marquises, and earls are called upper class, while viscounts and barons are called lower class nobility.

 

　Since the Viscount Darnall family that Cynthia was born into is a lower class nobility, she would not normally be eligible to participate in this evening party.

 

　However, by becoming related to the Duke Kruments family, he became eligible to participate. The evening party, attended not only by upper aristocrats but also royalty, was the chance Rudolph had been waiting for.

 

“You over there, aren’t you Clarice?”

 

　The three ladies call out to me. It was hard to tell at first glance because of their flashy makeup and dresses, but they were classmates in the same class.

 

　Although we were classmates, we had never talked. All I can remember is that the woman standing in the center is named Lize, but the other two don't even know her name. Their blonde hair is wavy, so the three of them may be related.

 

“Do you need something from me?”

“Why are you, a Viscount, at the evening party?”

"Because I was engaged to Leopard-sama. As a relative of the Duke's family, I was also invited."

"Hmm, even though you're called a duke, it's probably a position you bought with money."

 

　Cynthia is annoyed by his quarrelsome attitude. Cheeky children need discipline. Lize snorts at her sharp gaze.

 

"You have that cheeky look in your eyes."

“I was born with a face like this.”

"Hmph, then an ugly person like you is not suitable for Leopard-sama. Please break off the engagement."

“I don’t like it though.”

"Why⁉"

 

　Rize probably didn't expect to be rejected, and she reacted strongly. This is what I want to shout out.

 

"You see, Chariante-sama is the perfect match for Leopard-sama. A beautiful man should marry a beautiful woman!"

"That's strange."

“What is it?”

``If it is a rule that people with beautiful faces are bound together, what about you, Lize-sama? Your face is average. It is neither inferior nor superior. However, your fiancé is Mr. Haswald, who is famous for his beauty, right? If a beautiful man should be married to a beautiful woman, shouldn't you stay away?"

“What… what… how rude! Are you saying I’m ugly?!”

"Maybe you're not good at communicating? You said I was average. Or did you misunderstand me because you were aware that my face was ugly?"

"Gah... this..."

 

　Rize let out a slap in anger. However, Sara has already experienced the slap. She accepts it and falls to the ground in an exaggerated manner.

 

(Violence is taboo at a night party where upper class aristocrats gather. It's a good idea to play the victim here.)

 

　There are many people at the evening party. There are many well-bred nobles who are kind-hearted, so they cannot ignore a woman who has been beaten to the ground.

 

　Cynthia's plan comes true and a young man is caught.

 

　He is a young man with blonde hair that looks like melted gold, clear blue eyes, and a gentle face despite being tall enough to look up at him. He was so mesmerized by the beauty that he felt as if time had stopped for a moment.

 

"It looks like you got hit on the cheek, but are you okay?"

"yes……"

 

　I took the outstretched hand and stood up. The closer I looked at her, the more I realized that she had perfect features with no flaws.

 

“Lord Allen, this is different. That dark-skinned woman bought Leopard-sama with money and is so cocky!”

 

　The young man called Allen was a member of royalty. The prince's evaluation is directly linked to the aristocratic society's evaluation, so Rize trembles but desperately tries to defend herself.

 

(Are you royalty anyway?)

 

　Since Cynthia was close to the king before his death, she knew that he had a son. This was the first time she had seen him, for she had been told that she was only sickly and that she was in bed.

 

"I see. So you're the one who got hit, Clarice?"

"Do you know about me?"

"The Viscount Darnall family's company is the pillar of distribution for the kingdom. There's no way a servant of the royal family would know about their only daughter."

 

　His title is a viscount, but he is the best in the kingdom in terms of economic power. I like that he understood the importance of this even though he was young.

 

"Now, let's get back to the topic. I also know about the marriage between the Viscount Derminal family and the Duke Kruments family. But this is a problem between both families. I wonder if it has something to do with you guys?"

"Oh, that's..."

"That can't be true. In other words, you are the perpetrators of violence against innocent Clarice."

 

　If you commit a crime, you will be punished. Alimony or prison sentence? Either way, if she has a criminal record, she will never be able to attend a night party again, and her value as a young lady will plummet. You won't be able to hope for a proper marriage.

 

(A noble's daughter's job is to make good matches and strengthen relationships between families. In fact, being unable to fulfill that role is tantamount to a death sentence.)

 

　From now on, Rize and her friends' fate becomes tragic. If you're lucky, you'll be kept in your parents' home, but if you're bad, you'll be kicked out. These women, who have lived as aristocrats, are now in the same position as commoners.

 

"Hey, those girls..."

"I wonder if I've earned the prince's disrepute."

“Stupid people.”

 

　The evening party is filled with laughter. They were the subject of ridicule.

 

"...gusss......"

 

　Rize and the others begin to shed tears, as if they can see a future of destruction. Clutching her dress tightly, all they could do was shake her shoulders in despair.

 

“Your Highness Allen, I have a request to make of you.”

"What?"

“Could you forgive Rize-sama and the others for their sins?”

 

　Rize and the others look up at those words. His eyes looked as if he had met Buddha in hell.

 

"Are you sure? She hit you."

"It's true that I'm a member of the Viscount family, but I'm tied to the Duke family. I can understand why you don't like it."

"But...no, if you, the victim, say so, I can't say anything. You should be grateful to your kind Clarice."

 

　Rize and the others wiped their tears with the sleeve of their dress and grabbed Clarice's hand tightly.

 

"I'm sorry, I was stupid..."

“Everyone makes mistakes.”

"Hehe, you're so kind. I misunderstood you. I'll definitely repay you for this kindness."

 

(Of course. I'll be in trouble if I don't get it back.)

 

　Rize's words, her hands shaking, were sincere. Just as she would be grateful for the rest of her life if given water in the desert, she will surely continue to be Clarice's ally after being saved from destruction.

 

(After I attain Buddhahood, if I am surrounded by enemies, my granddaughter will have a hard time. I will make at least 100 lifelong friends.)

 

　While grateful, Rize and the others disappear into the hustle and bustle of the evening party. When only the two of them were left, Allen laughed.

 

"You're an interesting person, aren't you? You're just like my first love."

"That would be an honor. However, the person might feel uncomfortable about being thought to look like me."

"Then there's no need to worry. After all, he's no longer in this world. He lost his life."

"...Did you have an accident?"

"No, it's just old age. Apparently, he passed away."

 

(There may be limits to hobbies for older people!)

 

　Although he doesn't say it out loud because it would be disrespectful to the royal family, it seems that it was evident in his facial expressions. Allen gives her a smile and continues talking.

 

"That first love was your grandmother, Cynthia."

"Well, about my grandmother..."

 

　It's like a tacit confession. She stiffens in surprise, but quickly regains her composure.

 

“Did you know your grandmother?”

"No, it's just my unrequited love. But because of Cynthia-san, I am who I am today. I want to repay that debt to you, my granddaughter. If you have any troubles, I will always be able to help you, so please talk to me." I want it.”

"That's reassuring."

 

　She enjoys chatting with him, feeling deeply grateful that he is on her granddaughter's side. Surprisingly, she was able to enjoy the evening party.

 

　●

 

　The kingdom's aristocrats are required to attend the academy. By learning the culture and deepening interactions here, they will grow into people who can contribute to the kingdom.

 

(My seat was by the window.)

 

　There are few classmates in the classroom. The moment she opened the door, she attracted attention, but she soon lost interest, and I realized that this was not the student she was looking for.

 

(Claris didn't seem to have any friends.)

 

　To be exact, Sarah was my friend, but I can't call someone like that a friend. She was reluctant to spend any free time until class started, so she took out a book from her desk.

 

(Let's say you enjoy your precious reading time)

 

　The book she chose was a novel for women about a girl who is banished from the royal palace and rises to fame. During her lifetime, she had read only self-help books, so it was refreshing for her to read popular literature.

 

(This kind of talk seems to be popular among young girls these days.)

 

　I become so immersed in the world of books that I no longer hear the voices around me. One of Cynthia's special skills is the ability to drown out noise by concentrating.

 

“Mr.…Mr. Clarice…”

 

　I was shaken by the shoulders and brought back from the world of books. The owners of her voice were the three ladies, Rize and the others that she met at the evening party.

 

"Thank you for helping us last night. I wanted to express my gratitude once again."

"I didn't do much... more than that, the scar on my face..."

"I left Chariante-sama's faction. This is the punishment for that."

"Are you okay?"

"It'll heal in a few days. Don't worry about it."

 

　The cliques formed among the ladies form a community centered around the representative student. Although they belong to the faction led by Chariante, they decided to leave because they were unable to openly get along with Clarice.

 

"I'll definitely repay you for saving me. If you have any problems, please feel free to ask me for help."

"thank you"

 

　Rize and the others are as friendly as if they had swapped sexes. As she is grateful to the girls for wanting to be Clarice's friends to the extent that she is willing to leave her faction, a figure approaches.

 

"Oh my, the traitors seem to be getting along quite well."

 

　She is a young lady who shows off her chest and gives off a bewitching aura. Her name doesn't match her face, but I could make a prediction based on her circumstantial evidence.

 

“Are you Chariante-sama?”

“That’s how you are, Clarice.Aren’t you ashamed of buying a leopard with money?”

"Yes, there is no reason to be ashamed... First of all, what kind of relationship do you and Leopard-sama have?"

"it is……"

 

　Chariante is at a loss for words. She has reigned at the top of the school caste, and is highly capable of sensing danger. She felt hesitant, not wanting to tell the truth.

 

"Anyway, if you don't break off your engagement with Leopard, you'll be in trouble."

“Hehe, I’m looking forward to that.”

 

　Cynthia accepts Chariante's passion with a smile. She was looking forward to seeing what kind of move she would take.

 

　●

 

　The lecture begins and time passes. In the lecture on the history of the kingdom, there was a lot of information that Cynthia already knew, but there was still a lot of knowledge that she didn't know and new facts that had been discovered over the past five years.

 

　As I was listening intently and thinking that relearning isn't a bad idea, time passed quickly and it was time for a break.

 

(Let's refresh ourselves by walking in the hallway)

 

　Cynthia glances at the other classrooms as she moves through the busy hallway. Allen, a young man with a handsome face that she could see even from a distance, came into her field of vision as he chatted with her friend.

 

(The royal family also studies together with other students.)

 

　The students at this school are mainly aristocrats, and they are all the ones who will support the kingdom in the future. This is probably because they believe that interacting with these nobles will be useful for governing the kingdom in the future.

 

(Still, it's a large school.)

 

　By the time I reached the end of the hallway, my legs were tired. He has a hard time just moving around.

 

(Are you coming back soon?)

 

　When Cynthia went back the way she came and returned to the classroom, something strange had happened. People were gathering around her desk and making a fuss.

 

"What's happen?"

"Clarice-san, this..."

 

　Cynthia's desk was covered with doodles. She is often referred to as a ``nouveau riche'' and ``a woman who bought her fiancé with money.'' She was a total bully.

 

"Some people do terrible things."

"I'm sorry, but if we had stayed in the classroom..."

"Lize-sama and the others aren't to blame. I was the one who left my seat, too."

 

　I know who the culprit is. It's definitely Chariante. Perhaps she was trying to make him understand this implicitly, as she approached him with a grin on her face.

 

“You must be hated a lot.”

"I suspect you are the culprit."

"It's awful that you doubt me when I'm innocent. I wonder if the wealthy have bad personalities after all."

 

　Laughter spreads through the classroom. However, Cynthia is not the type to allow herself to be licked. She has a smile on her lips as if to signal a counterattack.

 

"Let's believe that Chariante-sama is innocent."

"Hmph, it's fine if you understand."

"However, a crime must be punished. This desk is not my personal property, but public property owned by the school. In other words, if you intentionally damage it, it is a serious crime that could result in imprisonment."

"Heh, heh~"

 

　Chariante shows confusion at Cynthia's statement, which takes the situation seriously. But there was still room somewhere.

 

"But there are no witnesses, so we don't know who the culprit is, right?"

"No, I understand. We just need to do a handwriting analysis."

“Huh!?”

“I will call the military police, so please preserve the evidence.”

"Well, wait!"

 

　I stopped Cynthia who was about to run out into the hallway. Her voice was trembling.

 

“You don’t have to take it so seriously.”

"Why are you in such a panic? You're not the culprit, are you?"

"I-that's true, but... H-there's a high possibility that handwriting analysis will end in vain. If it was written with the other hand than your dominant hand, you won't be able to prove it."

"Don't worry. Even if he bullies you, he's an idiot who would leave behind physical evidence. If he were smart enough to examine his handwriting, he wouldn't have done something like this in the first place."

"Who's the fool?"

"Why are you angry?"

"Anyway, please forgive me. I'm sure you didn't mean any harm."

"I'm the type of person who can't stand it unless I get hit back...and if you feel guilty about it, you should come forward and apologize to me."

"Well, then I'll apologize on your behalf!"

"Even though you're not the culprit?"

"that's right!"

 

　That's a tough claim. In a situation where everyone knows that Chariante is her culprit, Cynthia is not naive enough to stop pursuing her.

 

“Then please kneel down.”

"picture?"

"It's fine if you don't like it. Let's say the criminal will enjoy his life in prison."

"I understand! All you have to do is dogeza, right?"

 

　Trembling with frustration, Chariante bent her knees and pressed her head to the floor. Her trembling grew even louder as she realized her sneer was spreading at the sight of her misery.

 

“Hey, what’s the fuss?!”

 

　Leopard rushed to the side of Chariante, who was kneeling on the ground. I set my girlfriend on her feet and turned her sharp gaze to Cynthia.

 

"Explain. Why would you do such a terrible thing?"

"You're supposed to be my fiance. Why are you on Chariante-sama's side?"

"T-this... if there was a girl kneeling on the ground, even a noble would be filled with righteous indignation."

"Justice belongs to me. Please take a look at my desk as proof of that."

"...I see. I was able to understand the situation."

 

　Because he knew Cynthia's fear, he realized that the kneeling on the ground was retaliation for bullying. Realizing that he is at fault, he tries to leave the classroom with Chariante, but then Allen appears.

 

"Your Highness... why are you here?"

"Leopard, I became friends with your fiancé last night. When I heard that my friend was at the center of the commotion, I rushed over. However, even without my help, the matter has already been resolved amicably. It seems so.”

“Is it amicable?”

"If you can get away with an apology, then it's all amicable. There's only one piece of advice I can give you guys. If you're going to pick a fight, it's better to look at the other person first. Otherwise, you'll get burned."

 

　Leopard grits his teeth as he leaves this place, hearing the barbed advice. With the result close to a demonstration, there will probably be no more bullying.

 

(I can't stand Clarice being bullied because of me.)

 

　The reason why Cynthia made him dogeza was to create a deterrent effect. Having achieved his purpose, he breathes a sigh of relief.

 

"I'll tell you again. You're amazing."

 

　Allen applauds. Her eyes were filled with admiration.

 

"I'm such a boring person."

``All geniuses humble themselves in that way.The way you got away with it this time was also great.If you had really confronted the military police, you would have probably been distanced from your classmates.However, by forgiving you with just an apology, your... While securing your place, you stole Chariante's unifying force and caused the faction to collapse. Your student life will be rock solid from now on."

"...You've overbought it."

"Hehe, I'm getting more and more interested in you. I'm looking forward to the future."

 

　Allen, with a gentle smile, was shining like a flower had bloomed. Cynthia smiled back, saying that as long as he was there, the kingdom would be safe.

 

　●

 

"Leopard's Point of View"

 

　A few days later, Leopard was holding his head. The source of his troubles, of course, is Clarice.

 

“Damn it, why am I like this?”

 

　He tries to vent his anger by slamming his fist on the desk in his private room, but his relief only lasts for a moment, and anxiety soon takes over.

 

"That woman is a monster..."

 

　People follow the strong. After the Dogeza incident, Clarice became influential at the school. He hears that the number of people providing information on her has increased because she is trying to flatter him. Just being with Chariante put her in a dangerous situation.

 

"Please excuse me."

“Chariante!”

 

　Chariante enters the room with dark circles under her eyes. It was an unexpected visit.

 

“Chariante, it would be bad for you to visit my mansion now!”

 

　I don't know where Clarice's eyes are. It was dangerous to meet him carelessly.

 

"I have something important to tell you."

 

　When she says those words, she doesn't have the same charm as before. She has an eeriness about her, like a dead person. I was more concerned about her health than the main topic.

 

"Hey, aren't you feeling unwell?"

"Hehe, it's definitely bad. My life is in ruins because of that woman."

"That's why I warned her. That woman is dangerous."

“I didn’t hear it was that far!”

 

　The raised voice was laced with fear. Realizing Clarice's threat once again, Leopard held his breath.

 

``Because that woman made me fall to the ground, I was expelled from my position as the head of the faction.I am now at the bottom of the caste, and every time I pass in the hallway, even the students I didn't even pay attention to laugh at me.'' There's no way I can handle it!"

"Calm down a little."

"No, it's still too early to calm down. If we leave things like this, it's only a matter of time before our relationship is exposed. Destruction is right around the corner."

"I'm aware of that too..."

 

　If that monster seriously investigated, the fact of the affair would be revealed immediately. We must take action before that happens.

 

"Hey, Leopard. I came up with a better way."

"what?"

"I'm going to take that woman's life."

"--Well...wait, wait, if I kill him, the engagement will end and the aid will be cut off."

“However, if the affair is found out, the engagement will be called off as culpable. On the other hand, if you die in an accident, Viscount Darnall’s family is at fault. Isn’t it possible that they can continue to support you through negotiation?”

"Ugh..."

 

　Even Leopard was hesitant at the idea of ​​killing someone. However, if his affair is exposed, he risks being expelled from the Duke's household. If that happens, it will be his ruin.

 

"Compared to my destruction, Clarice's life is cheap..."

"Hehe, you're wonderful even if you're dangerous...Then let's attack the next night party together."

"ah"

 

　Leopard smiles crookedly, as if to say that the weight of life is different for a duke and a viscount. For his own benefit, he was prepared to stain his hands with blood.

 

　●

 

　Cynthia, who attended the evening party, had a wine glass in her hand while leaning her back against the wall.

 

　Rudolph is busy deepening his relationship with the upper class nobles and is not around. He was alone in the silence, enjoying the sweetness and sourness of the wine.

 

"Hey, I see you again."

"Your Highness Allen..."

 

　Allen, who called out to me, had a wine glass in his hand. She approached him to enjoy a drink with her.

 

"At that age, drinking is quite an adult."

"There shouldn't be an age limit for drinking in the kingdom. And Your Highness has proven that."

"Hehe, that's right."

 

　Allen takes a sip of wine. Since the kingdom was also a grape producing region, it was considered a hobby of the aristocrats to know the different flavors of grapes. Because he was a prince at the top of the aristocracy, he knew more about wine than anyone else.

 

"This year's wine is of good quality. I think it will sell well."

“If it were the Empire, I would buy it for twice the price.”

"That country spares no money for gourmet food...and it's amazing that you have so much knowledge about the empire."

“Although I am a viscount, I am also the daughter of a noble family.”

 

　He takes a sip of the wine, as if insisting that he can't be defeated if he is educated. Cynthia has handled many types of wine during her lifetime, but the taste was one of the best in history.

 

"Still, it's surprising that there's only one wonderful person like you."

“I have a fiancée. And because of Chariante-sama’s dogeza scandal, I have been recognized as an object of fear.”

"Other men have no eyesight."

“…Your Highness Allen, aren’t you afraid of me?”

"Hahaha, I died once. I don't feel fear anymore."

 

　Dead people don't come back to life. I thought it was some kind of metaphorical expression, so I waited for Allen to say something.

 

"I had heart disease. The doctors told me I had three years to live. That was already six years ago."

“Then you have overcome your illness.”

"Ah. Your grandmother, Cynthia, used trade routes to bring medicine from a small country far away. Thanks to her, I was completely cured of my illness. She saved my life."

 

(That happened sometimes...)

 

　Once, at the request of the king, he searched for medicine for his son. Cynthia's health deteriorated soon afterward, and although she never met her son Allen himself, she had unknowingly saved his life.

 

``I was supposed to live out my natural life in a hospital room, but my life was saved.However, the person to whom I owed my debt had passed away.So, I wanted to know even a little bit about her when she was alive, so I kept my books in tatters. I read her again. We only had contact through books, but I fell in love with her. It was my first love."

"Your Highness Allen..."

"Cynthia, who passed away, had a dream. She said she would make the kingdom a wealthy country and eliminate people suffering from illness and poverty. Before I knew it, that dream also became my dream."

 

　Allen's expression was filled with hope for the future. Her eyes fixed on Cynthia.

 

"It's not impossible for someone as talented as you to make your dreams come true. That's why I admire your strength."

"That's not a compliment to a woman...hehe, I'm happier than being cute."

"If you didn't have a fiancée, I'd be willing to run to be your spouse."

“Please tell me a joke.”

"I'm serious though."

 

　Allen's face was red all the way to his ears. As if to pretend it was because of the alcohol, he drank the remaining wine until the wine glass was empty.

 

"Your Highness, I'm getting drunk. Would you mind catching the night breeze?"

"I was also very drunk. I'll help you."

 

　The two of them pop out into the inner courtyard. Beautiful flowers are in full bloom, but you can't see them clearly in the darkness. However, there was an elegance to the flowers that stood out vaguely in the moonlight.

 

“I must thank His Highness Allen for accompanying me.”

 

　Cynthia stops. At the same time, Allen also notices something strange.

 

"...It seems I made the right decision to stay by your side."

 

　Allen pulled out the sword he was carrying on his waist from its sheath and held it in the upper position. His gaze was fixed on the bushes.

 

"Whoever is hiding in the bushes over there. Show yourself."

 

　In response to Allen's call, a masked man and woman emerge from the bushes. The man holds his sword and the woman waits behind him.

 

"I'll fight. Clarice, I want you to stay behind my back."

 

　Two swordsmen point their swords at each other. However, the masked man was hunched over. Allen guesses his true identity from his attitude.

 

"Does that mean you don't want to hurt me? Then your target is Clarice."

“……”

“I guess the reason you stay silent is because your true identity is revealed through your voice...Clarice, do you have any idea who the person you know is aiming for your life?”

"Yes. I'm sure it's Lord Leopard and Lady Chariante."

 

　The masked man seemed upset, his hands shaking. Now's the chance, Cynthia claps her hands.

 

“Now!”

 

　It wasn't Allen who started moving at Cynthia's signal. A woman who was waiting behind the masked man betrayed her friends and hugged him around the waist.

 

　Allen brushes off the sword of the man who cannot move and restrains him. When he slammed it to the ground and took off his mask, Leopard's face was there, just as he had expected.

 

“I guess it was you…”

“Damn it, why?! Why did Chariante betray me?”

"Hehe, do you want to know?"

 

　Chariante, who took off her mask, lowered her eyebrows as if she were apologetic. From the look of pain on his face, we learn that everything was in Clarice's hands.

 

"I'd like to know too. Could you please tell me why this happened?"

"The motive was simple. He wanted to take my life and break off our engagement."

"...Did you know about that plan in advance?"

"Yes, that's why I asked His Highness Allen to come with me."

 

　If Allen, a member of the royal family, testifies, it would be absolute proof. He brought him here so he wouldn't be able to escape.

 

"How did you know about our plan?"

"I knew about Leopard-sama's affair. And the crime of cheating also applies to the other woman. I didn't want to be charged a huge compensation fee, so I threatened Chariante-sama and got her on my side."

"B-but, that's out of order. Chariante suggested that I try to kill Clarice...I never thought..."

"Fufu, that's right. I was behind the scenes and made Chariante propose the attack. After all, it would be easier to break off the engagement if he was found guilty of murder than by being found guilty of cheating. You can do it.”

"......"

"There's no need to explain the rest. With a signal, I instructed Chariante-sama to restrain you from behind. This attack was all set up to ruin your life. It is.”

 

　Leopard's throat trembles with fear. However, he was not mature enough to accept the harsh reality as is.

 

"H-coward... you've led me into a trap!"

"It's rude to call it a trap. I believed in you... If Leopard-sama had felt remorse and stayed the course, it wouldn't have ended like this. But... You didn't. You prioritized your own interests and tried to take my life. You have no right to blame me for that."

"......"

 

　Leopard just bursts into tears. While I think he did something pitiful, this was Cynthia's best move.

 

(There's no way Clarisse's life will be targeted after I attain Buddhahood. I'm glad we were able to eliminate the risk early.)

 

　It's a shame that I couldn't give my granddaughter a happy engagement, but Viscount Darnall's family is wealthy. I need to start looking for marriage deals with upper class aristocrats.

 

"I hope it's resolved safely."

“Thanks to His Highness Allen.”

“But I never thought you would use me.”

"I was confident that Leopard-sama would never hurt the royal family. I relied on him as his bodyguard."

 

　If you kill a member of the royal family, it wouldn't be strange for the whole family to be jointly sentenced to death. There was no way Leopard had the courage to do so, so it was guaranteed that Allen would be safe.

 

"But it's true that you used me. So I want you to pay for using me...I want you to be engaged to me."

"……Are you serious?"

"I'm serious. Can't you believe it?"

"I didn't think that there would be a gentleman who could talk about engagement after seeing what happened earlier."

"Hehe, I actually fell in love with you once I realized your talent. Also, I'm conscious of you as a member of the opposite sex. I want to make my second love come true. Is that no good?"

 

　Allen has no complaints as a fiancé. I have no choice but to take advantage of the opportunity to give my girlfriend's granddaughter a happy marriage.

 

“I will be happy to accept it.”

“Thank you for your continued support.”

 

　The two shake hands and sign an engagement contract. The reincarnated great merchant will continue to play an active role for the happiness of his granddaughter.

 

 

 

The End