The Necromance of Love and Death: Defeated Early in the Game, I Reincarnated as a Tragic Villainous Noble and Rebel Against the Scenario with My Beloved Using My Modern and Game Knowledge - Chapter 16

Arnaud arranged for a carriage, and the three of us—Vio, Madame Corantine, and I—set out to explore the royal capital until lunchtime.

“There are so many mansions!”

“Yeah, I think they belong to other nobles.”

This area was close to the royal palace, and grand estates lined the streets. Most likely, they belonged to high-ranking aristocrats.

“The estate of the Count of Univille is also located around here. In fact, most of the noble residences in this district belong to those affiliated with the Balbastor Marquess House, who govern the northern territories of the kingdom.”

“I see.”

I nodded at Madame Corantine’s explanation. It made sense—other noble factions probably built their estates in clusters as well.

“Hey, Kuro! Look over there!”

“Huh? What is it?”

Pulled along by Vio, I peered out the carriage window and spotted an ancient, towering wall up ahead. It was the same one I had seen from above, dividing the city into different sections.

“Wow!”

The moment we passed through the wall, the scenery changed completely. The rows of aristocratic mansions disappeared, replaced by grand commercial buildings with refined architecture.

The most striking difference, however, was the number of people. The streets were bustling with pedestrians, and even children were running around, playing.

“This district is home to the city’s wealthier residents and major businesses. If any shop catches your interest, we can always summon them to the estate later.”

That explained the large, elaborate shop signs. They were probably designed to appeal to the nobility.

Nobles rarely go to stores to buy things themselves. In most cases, they summon merchants to their estates instead.

“I’m curious about the dresses in the royal capital. Is that a boutique? Uh… ‘Ende’?”

Vio was eagerly searching for a clothing store from inside the carriage.

“If Lord Clovis is willing, we could invite a boutique favored by the Count of Univille to the estate.”

“Really?! Hey, Clovis, please!”

Vio grasped my hands with both of hers and looked up at me with pleading eyes.

…When did she learn such a technique?! With her elegant, more refined features, the combination of cuteness and beauty was devastatingly effective!

“O-okay, fine.”

“Yay!”

I gave in without thinking.

“Over there, you can see the Royal Theatre. We won’t be able to visit today since we lack time and tickets, but we can pass by the front.”

“Oh…”

“It’s beautiful…”

Madame Corantine pointed to a grand, temple-like white structure. The building was adorned with intricate carvings on its walls and pillars, making it a sight to admire even from the outside.

“Theatre performances are always in vogue in the capital. The actors here are top-notch, so it’s a great choice for a date, too.”

Madame Corantine winked at me as she spoke. She was subtly hinting that I should take Vio there.

I wasn’t particularly interested in theater, but it might be worth experiencing at least once. I’d ask Arnaud to arrange some tickets.

◇

Three days later, I was summoned to the royal palace.

That meant I had two free days—or so I thought. However, I soon realized that I wouldn’t have any time to relax.

I needed to select attire suitable for an audience with the royal family, rehearse proper etiquette within the estate, and refine my courtly manners to perfection.

I felt guilty about leaving Vio to her own devices, but apparently she was busy as well. Madame Corantine had been drilling tea party etiquette into her over and over again.

I also heard that in four days, the Balbastor Marquess House would be hosting a tea party. Naturally, I would be attending.

It was probably meant as an official introduction for both Vio and me. Vio, determined to make a good impression, had recruited nearly every tailor in the capital to alter her dress in the latest fashion.

After those two hectic days, the moment finally arrived—I was heading to the royal palace.

“I’m off.”

“Good luck!”

“Don’t be too nervous. You’ll do just fine, Lord Clovis.”

With Vio and Madame Corantine seeing me off, I boarded the carriage bound for the towering white palace I had gazed at from afar.

“Hah…”

No matter how much I practiced, I couldn’t shake off my nerves. I might have knowledge of the game’s depiction of the king, but this would be my first time meeting him in person.

I knew it was unlikely, but what if he presented me with an impossible challenge?

The Balbastor Marquess House was one of the Five Great Pillars of the kingdom. If someone wanted to weaken our influence, this could be their chance. I needed to ensure I left a favorable impression on His Majesty.

“My lord, we have arrived.”

“Ah…”

Lost in my thoughts, I was startled by Arnaud’s voice. Before I knew it, we had reached the palace.

I was escorted to a waiting room, but I barely had time to collect my thoughts before my audience was announced.

“My lord, please don’t be overly anxious. Just be yourself.”

Perhaps noticing my nervousness, Arnaud offered me a reassuring smile.

…Even Arnaud was concerned about me.

“Thank you. I’ll be going now.”

Leaving Arnaud behind in the waiting room, I stepped into the audience chamber.