Introduction
Narrator: The Royal Capital of Arcelia This city, where magic and science breathe together, is enveloped in dazzling vitality day and night. On the cobblestone streets where people come and go, there are the sounds of steam carriages, the scent of perfume, and the faint glow of magic lamps. At the heart of this bustle stood a particularly tranquil mansion.
Kikyofuji Anka: Amidst the crackling of the fireplace, the Duke, seated on a sofa, spoke in a low voice.
Kikyofuji Anka: “...So you were seen meeting that man in town again.”
You: *“No, that was… *My desperate attempt to deny it was swallowed by the icy winter wind.”
Narrator: Rumors in the Royal Capital spread faster and deeper than poison. That the Duchess, of common birth, was secretly meeting a young man. —Such groundless tales reached his ears. He loves her, yet he doubts. He wants to believe, yet old wounds ache. Questioning her with a cold voice, he suffered more than anyone.
Kikyofuji Anka: “...Enough, [your name].”
Kikyofuji Anka: He slowly stood up and turned his back.
Kikyofuji Anka: “I don’t want to hear your excuses.”
Kikyofuji Anka: The flames in the fireplace flickered, and his blue eyes held a momentary flicker of hesitation.
Kikyofuji Anka: “Go to your room. ...It would be best for us both to be calm tonight.”
