The Villainess Lives Twice: Butterfly's Dream (IF Story) - Chapter 7

Under normal circumstances, this would be impossible. Even in a typical situation, a marriage proposal with Marquisate Rosan would be challenging. With the family’s current state in disarray, it was even more so. The vassals of Grand Duchy Evron and the Empress would likely not agree.

However, if Cedric strongly wanted it and pushed for it, it wouldn’t be entirely impossible. Cedric was the sole direct heir of Grand Duchy Evron’s family and would inherit the title of Grand Duke as soon as he became an adult.

‘If the condition is that she will be raised in Grand Duchy Evron, the vassals might accept it.’

Overcoming the Empress’s opposition would also hold its significance. The uncertainty of how long a thirteen-year-old’s feelings would last was a concern, but it wasn’t crucial. Ending a betrothal would come with its own consequences, potentially helping to weaken Grand Duchy Evron’s influence somewhat.

‘Hmm.’

What about that young girl, Artizea Rosan?

To the Emperor, Artizea held no real significance. While Milaira’s betrayal had brought him anger and pain, he had long been aware of what kind of woman she was and had no intention of placing the blame for her mistakes on an innocent child.

It was even unclear whether it could be considered a betrayal in the first place.

For that reason, he had continued to act as if he were entirely unaware of the child’s existence.

But eight years had passed. Although that time wasn’t long enough to completely erase his earlier anger, it wasn’t a powerful enough feeling to overshadow his calculations of gain and loss.

He didn’t know if it would be beneficial, but giving away an insignificant child would come at no cost to him.

If Cedric was right, separating Artizea from Milaira would likely be better for her as well. The Emperor felt a slight sense of responsibility.

He had suspected that Milaira was mistreating the child, and while he didn’t acknowledge it outright, he was aware that this fact somewhat soothed his feelings of betrayal.

Knowing that must have intensified Milaira’s actions.

With a more positive mindset, the Emperor looked at Cedric.

“It may seem inappropriate to discuss such matters with someone as young as you, but you’re thirteen now, so you likely understand the workings of the court. Do you think it’s reasonable to raise the daughter of Marchioness Rosan under Catherine’s roof?”

“That’s completely unreasonable. If you allow it, I would like to go to Grand Duke Evron’s residence.”

At this, the Emperor straightened up and looked serious. While he didn’t think Cedric fully understood what he was saying, it meant that he wanted to widen the gap between the Empress and Grand Duchy Evron.

However, contrary to the Emperor’s assumptions, Cedric was well aware of what he meant.

“And I think it would be good for me to stay in Evron until the mansion is prepared. At least until Marchioness Rosan calms down.”

“I see.”

In that case, the Emperor had no reason to oppose it. If things went well, it could weaken the influence of both the Empress and Duchy Orca, and even if it didn’t, listening to Milaira’s complaints would be the extent of the loss.

He laughed heartily and said,

“Alright. I grant you permission for your betrothal to Lady Rosan. I’ll take care of appeasing Marchioness Rosan. However, you will need to persuade the Empress.”

“Thank you.”

Cedric bowed respectfully. As long as he could prevent Milaira from using the Emperor’s power to reclaim Artizea, the rest would be manageable.

* * *

The next morning, Artizea didn’t wake up until nearly noon.

As she rubbed her eyes and yawned while lying on her side, she was startled awake by the bright light flooding the room.

“Ah!”

She quickly sat up, surprised, and looked around the room in bewilderment.

The bed was enormous, with clean white sheets spread across it. The room was spacious and tidy. One wall displayed swords and shields, while another held a bookshelf, accompanied by a sofa and a table.

“Oh…”

Artizea murmured in confusion, unsure how she had ended up in such a place.

At that moment, a kind voice called out to her.

“Did you have a cough, Miss?”

“Kyaak!”

As Artizea attempted to get out of bed, she slipped and fell.

Bang!

Ansgar rushed over to the child who had landed on the floor.

“Ouch…”

“Are you alright, Miss?”

Ansgar asked as he helped her up. He worried she might cry, but Artizea held back her tears. Although her large turquoise eyes were glistening, she knew better than to cry over such a minor incident.

“I, I’m sorry…”

“Why are you apologizing? Are you hurt anywhere?”

“I’m, I’m fine. Wh, where am I?”

Artizea stammered.

She remembered the tea party from the previous day, the kind invitation from the Lord—which, by her standards, had felt quite like a party. But she had no recollection of what happened afterward.

Ansgar helped her sit up on the bed and spoke kindly.

“You fell asleep after having tea yesterday. Lord Cedric instructed us not to wake you, so I let you sleep until morning.”

“Ah!”

Now that she thought about it, she had indeed felt drowsy.

Artizea’s face flushed red, then turned pale.

“I, I need to go back. Th, Thank you!”

“Where do you think you’re going, Miss?”

Ansgar said as he caught her, preventing her from jumping out of bed.

“Breakfast is prepared. First, wash your face.”

“My, my mother will be angry. She’s probably furious right now… What should I do…?”

Artizea stuttered with a pale face. Ansgar looked at her with pity.

He had heard from Cedric the night before.

[Lady Rosan is being mistreated by her mother.]

[I did see bruises under her arms…]

[The butler even bullies her. It seems she’s not getting enough to eat. Take care not to startle her.]

[Are you planning to look after her for just one night?]

Ansgar asked carefully.

It wouldn’t be hard to give the child a comfortable day. However, such a brief act of compassion wouldn’t change her circumstances.

Cedric had said calmly.

[I plan to inform the Emperor and take her to Evron. Treat her ….. as if she was my sister.]

[Understood.]

Ansgar didn’t ask how he would handle Marchioness Rosan’s anger. He believed Cedric could solve all the problems himself. Moreover, he was someone who could seek help or advice if necessary.

So, for now, his role was to take care of this poor child.

“Don’t worry. Marchioness Rosan is aware that you’re here.”

“Mo, Mother does?”

“Lord Cedric will explain everything later. So don’t worry too much. First, wash your face and have breakfast. In the meantime, I’ll prepare your bath.”

“The Young Lord will?”

Artizea’s eyes widened in surprise. Ansgar smiled gently, trying to reassure her.

“Yes.”

“Ah…”

Artizea’s cheeks turned bright red. While she didn’t believe that her mother wouldn’t be angry if someone spoke on her behalf, she felt strangely comforted that both Cedric and Ansgar seemed genuinely concerned for her well-being.