I Don’t Need Them Anymore — Abandoning the Family That Never Loved Me, I Find Happiness in a Neighboring Kingdom - Chapter 37

On the return ship, I confirmed why Father had been in that state.

It seemed the pirates had stripped Father naked because he appeared prideful, and they thought to make a spectacle of him. The knights who subdued the pirates were also so appalled by Father’s terrible treatment of my sister that they left him in that condition.

As for the captured pirates, they would be charged with crimes like attempted robbery this time, but since no one besides Father was harmed and they didn’t resist when captured, they would be monitored but likely wouldn’t face severe punishment.

However, it’s unclear how they would be punished for other potential crimes.

I decided to hear about my sister’s situation after the engagement announcement party.

I barely made it to the engagement party on time. Lady Edith only needed to change clothes to be ready, but I wasn’t so fortunate.

What should have taken over half a day to prepare had to be done in less than an hour.

Despite my repeated apologies, the maids worked hard without a single unpleasant expression. I’m truly grateful.

Wrapped in a dress studded with colorful gems, I looked completely different from yesterday and even received praise from Lady Edith.

The engagement party proceeded smoothly, but the nobles’ surprise at seeing Lady Edith’s face for the first time was more prominent than the celebration itself.

Being complimented and celebrated by so many people made this the first party I actually enjoyed.

“I was prepared to be put on display, but this exceeded my expectations.”

“You were gathering attention, though not necessarily as the main character in the intended way.”

“I suppose I should be happy since there’s no malice in it.”

After the party, while heading to my room, Lady Edith let out a deep sigh with a tired expression.

It was late, and given everything that had happened since yesterday, Lady Edith must be exhausted.

Even tired, her handsome appearance remained unchanged. Suddenly feeling anxious, I voiced my concern.

“Will people start pursuing you from now on?”

“…What do you mean?”

“Well, now that everyone knows how wonderful Lady Edith looks, I thought people might approach you like they did with my sister…”

“Don’t worry. Unlike your former fiancé, I won’t fall for honey traps, and I’m devoted only to you.”

My heart fluttered at Lady Edith’s smiling face, and I thanked her while unable to look directly at her.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome?”

Just as Lady Edith smiled, Nana approached.

“Lady Edith, Lady Dahlia, I apologize for interrupting. We’ve received word from our associates in the Kingdom of Yusers.  Those who were cooperating with His Majesty the King have retracted their previous statements. They’re now claiming they were ordered by the King, not by Her Majesty the Queen.”

It seems those around Father who realized he would be deposed decided to switch allegiance to my brother. They’re all testifying in unison: “Prince Rix knew nothing. We gave false testimony under the King’s orders.”

Given my brother’s character, I doubt he’ll forgive those who lied without being ordered. Once his succession to the throne is secure, he’ll probably punish them too.

“At this rate, the King’s trial will be held soon. And Her Majesty the Queen will likely be released.”

According to what Nana heard, Mother is blaming everything on Father and hasn’t said anything about my sister.

“How is Ramula doing?”

“She’s been crying uncontrollably and can’t be interrogated, but they say Princess Ramula will likely only face a fine to the Zerath ducal house.”

Nana answered my question with a stern expression.

The fine money will probably be covered by the national treasury, so my sister will have to work hard to repay it.

“Lady Dahlia, there’s a request for you to testify at the King’s trial. What would you like to do?”

“I’ll do my best.”

Speaking in front of many people makes me nervous, but I can’t afford to show weakness.

When I nodded, Lady Edith said, “I can’t testify, but I’ll go with you.”

I appreciate the sentiment. But this is something I need to handle myself.

“I can’t trouble Lady Edith any further. I’ll manage on my own.”

When I answered, Lady Edith’s eyebrows drooped slightly.

“I won’t be a bother to Dahlia. So, may I come along?”

“…Thank you.”

I don’t have to handle everything by myself.

I felt she was implicitly telling me it’s okay to rely on others when necessary.

Nana smiled watching us but quickly returned to her serious expression.

“Also, Lady Dahlia, Her Majesty the Queen of Yusers says she wants to speak with you. What would you like to do about that?”

“…I’ll speak with her on the day of Father’s trial.”

“Understood. I’ll convey that message.”

Nana bowed, turned on her heel, and ran back the way she came.

What does Mother want to tell me? Does she plan to apologize like my sister did?

Taking this as a good opportunity, I renewed my determination to not only deal with Mother but also sever ties with Lord Zerath on the day of Father’s trial.