qiutls

[qiutls]

TNGDH 021

After doing it a few times during the festival, it was now easy to avoid Kyle's eyes and turn into a person. In the first place, except for that day when I met with Sen, I've been spending hours together with him, so I had no time to worry about getting caught.

"You're a magician?"

"Yes, but I'm not that talented, I just do this and that..."

"I see."

I drank the tea and ate the scones he prepared while I lied nonchalantly.

I'm sorry for lying but it's better this way, just in case I need a cover-up in the future.

If Kyle goes on an expedition, there would be a good excuse to accompany him. If he goes on to subjugate demonic beasts as written in the novel, as a magician, I can go with him.

"Rather than that, can you really spend time with me like this? Don't you have any work to do?"

"Do you want me to leave?"

"No....."

I'm not making you leave ah. I'm just wondering if you're really this free. It seems like the grand duke has a suspicion disease after I disappeared unexpectedly twice.

I turned my head, slightly guilty at the situation. Then his hand reached out and turned my face back to look at him.

"It's polite to look at each other's face while talking."

"I'm sorry I'm a man who isn't well versed in aristocratic manners."

"You should learn from now on."

"Why should I?"

He came closer and whispered.

"Aren't you my companion?"

A sin committed once lasts a lifetime. I looked at him miserably.

'How many times has it been now?'

Even beef bones won't be used as much as Kyle uses this companion comment. He has been using it to blackmail me whenever I tried to avoid answering his questions or to leave early.

You're someone who died without a companion in the original novel. Is that why you're obsessed with companions? To be honest, it's not that you didn't want to date anyone, it's that you couldn't right?

My mouth was itching to shoot back the comment at him but I forced myself to hold it in. Kyle who has been staring at me suddenly let out an airless laugh. He had a strange yet comforting smile plastered on his face. His bright expression pulled me in and before I knew it I had been staring at him as well.

"I feel comfortable with you."

"....."

"I know it probably sounds strange, don't think too much about it."

I have nothing to say if you tell me those words with such a soft smile.

Are you doing this on purpose?

I couldn't do anything except stare at him, I only came to my senses when he offered another scone to me.

"Since you're a magician, can you take a look at my magical beast? You can take a look at it whenever you're free."

I was about to bite into the scone then stopped after hearing Kyle's unexpected words.....That's strange. Did you just ask me, to take a look after.....ME?

I put down the scone and asked him again, this time listening with full attention.

"...What?"

"I asked if you could take a look at the magical beast I'm raising in the study."

I guess I didn't hear it wrong.

Looking alternately at the scone in my hand and at Kyle, my appetite dropped. Even though the desert looked delicious, I felt like I would get an upset stomach if I ate it now.

But Kyle didn't seem to mind my actions and continued pensively.

"I'm worried because he doesn't seem to have any appetite recently. And he's been lazy as well. He used to be a very active guy..."

Don't edit your memories ah! When have I been active? Apart from running on the wheel in order to get the skill, I was always lying down! You don't even know your own hamster.

"I think it's because, it's already in the growing stage, yet there's no signs of a mana stone forming inside him. I decided to periodically inject magic power (mana) as advised by the doctor but..."

".....Magic power?"

What's this? Who told you to do that?

"Since it's inevitable that it will suffer from the mana injected, I thought it would be a good idea to let you meet it and see if you can help."

"What...."

What? What's this situation?!

I can't even say no to his requests..... I closed my mouth and urgently called the system.

Hey! HEY! Hurry up and come here!

[ ……(*￣０￣)ノ ]

Why do you look like you've just woken up? I clenched my fist and looked at the blue system window in front of me.

'Hurry up and navigate to the Fruit Store or whatever it's called!'

[ ……. ] [ ……. ] [ ☆*: .｡. o(≧▽≦)o .｡.:*☆ ] [ The Nut Store! ]

After a bit of loading, the shiny emoji came into my vision. I clicked my tongue upon seeing the decorated sign below it. Don't you get tired doing all of this?

I ignored the small letters that said renewal open and quickly scanned the store.

[ Mini mini Brazil Nut Madeleine, consumes 2% miracle value, in turn your body gets smaller for 30 minutes. It's even smaller than a hamster! ]

[ Hurried Almond Financier, consumes 3% miracle value, in turn you're able to run faster than usual. ]

Give me something useful please, what's the point of these items ah? If I wanted to be small, I'll just turn back into a hamster.

I finished reading page 1 and was about to turn into page 2 when I heard Kyle sigh.

"A magician, you say..."

"What are you thinking about, Your Highness?"

"I just thought, it's quite a relief."

"Why?"

"There has always been a shortage of magicians in the Blake estate. It hasn't been long since I became the leader, and I've had a lot of accidents at the Wyvern nest survey last year."

He looked at me expectantly.

No, I can't think of an excuse. Stop looking at me with such a face. How am I supposed to hold my ground, my expression turned to guilt. 

I moved my hand to cover his eyes, but of course my feeble efforts were rendered useless in just three seconds as Kyle held my wrist in place.

"The work at the estate is hard. I'm really so busy these days."

I made a vague excuse first, just in case he asks for another favor.

Even though the "Summon" skill was upgraded, it was only up to two hours. I can't do much with the time I'm given, and it's not like I can lie everyday that I need to go to the bathroom before I disappear again.

"....Is that so?"

Kyle's face was tinted with disappointment. I felt apologetic seeing this unfamiliar expression on him.

Why are you so disappointed ah? I'm a fake magician who can't even do basic spells. The only spell I know is how to turn into your hamster, Cashew Nut.

'Can you even consider that as a magic spell?'

The system just transforms me back and forth.

In any case, it's better to find a magician who's actually knowledgeable, rather than choosing me. But still... If you're this disappointed.

I added gently, as if teeming with good intentions.

"There's still enough time to look for magicians before the demonic beasts' subjugation expedition happens."

There was something that came to mind after I said that sentence.

The Northern festival was held during the coldest and darkest days of winter. After this tumultuous atmosphere, the Blake estate started preparing for a massive reconnaissance.

There are many reasons for this reconnaissance, the main purpose was to bring back the vigilance that was loosened during the festival. It was a reminder that no matter how good the life in the North is, it is still a dangerous place full of demonic beasts.

Another reason is probably the training of the newly inaugurated knights. At this time of the year, knights who were apprentices in the past will get to experience combat since their inauguration.

"The ceremony for the new knights....."

Kyle replied slowly,

"We did it during the festival, I remember it was pretty big this year since there was a lot of new recruits."

"Haha... I think I was pretty busy back then."

Kyle glanced at me suspiciously. I know I didn't have anything to be busy about, but just forget about it, let's move on! I ignored his piercing gaze as I recounted the events.

A knight's inauguration that was larger than usual.

The chandelier dropping in the middle of the banquet.

And then, a large scale reconnaissance.

I'm pretty sure at this time, Kyle...

[ The Duke of Blake is attacked during the reconnaissance and suffers a heavy injury on his right arm. ]

The system narrated the content from the original novel.

I asked a question quietly. 

'Will this injury, affect how he dies?'

After a moment of silence, the system answered succinctly.

[ That's right. ]

The sentence shone brightly in blue and it gave me chills. His fated death struck me with renewed vividness.

'Right...'

Kyle's death is now just 15 days away.

According to the original story, he started to confront Belial through the chandelier incident, and was attacked at the reconnaissance. Then he was stabbed to death by a strong man at his own castle.

Just because I changed a small part of the plot, doesn't mean I changed his fate entirely. Miracles don't happen that easily.

What now... What should I do?

"Hey."

"....."

"Shu."

"....."

"Shu!"

Kyle put his palms around my cheeks and I came to my senses when his cold hands touched my skin.

"Ah."

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine."

I took a quick breath and tried to move my stiff fingertips.

"I'm alright."

He didn't seem to believe my words, but he didn't pressure me into confessing.

"I was just thinking about something for a moment."

Kyle frowned at my words.

"What were you thinking about that made you so pale?"

I couldn't answer honestly so I just shut my mouth.

Come to think of it, I always avoided his questions this way. Either I start talking fast, saying random excuses or I just shut up entirely. It must look suspicious.

But it can't be helped. Anyways, I changed the subject as naturally as I could and leaked the plan I had in mind in advance.

"Your Highness, may I follow you on this large-scaled reconnaissance?"

He answered straight away, as if it was not a difficult decision.

"Sure, but have you ever been outside the territory?"

"No."

"The north is much more dangerous than you think. At the snowfield, humans are the first learn how weak they are."

"....."

The outside, is entirely different from the Blake estate, as the grand duke described.

I gulped down and looked him in the eye.

"It will all be alright if Your Highness is there to protect me."

Protect me, Kyle, and I'll protect you. You might not know, but our fates are linked. Our survival depends on each other.

Kyle whispered back.

"Do you trust me?"

"Isn't it natural that the people of this land trusts you?"

"I know."

He said with a mischievous smile on his face.

"But I was asking you."

Acting like a hooligan. You already know the answer.

I squinted at him, pretending to look hateful.

"Of course."

"All right, I'll be responsible in protecting you, but, how are your horseback riding skills?"

"Ah."

Well how should I explain this... During our school trip, they went to Jeju Island and everyone rode a pony, but I was left behind doing homework at school.

Before I could answer anything, he added.

"Actually, it would be difficult to ride alone with your injury."

Fortunately, he didn't seem to think of leaving me behind.

But wait, what? Don't tell me? You're thinking of giving me a ride?! In front of all the new recruits??? Wait, no!

'.....Should I not have told him that I wanted to join?'

I bit my lips in order to calm down the goosebumps on my arms.

"....Thank you for being considerate, Your Highness."

When he leaves, I must learn horseback riding immediately!

t/n : longest chapter yet! thank u for all the ko-fis~ also posting twice today since I might not be able to do so tomorrow!

#tngdh

[qiutls]

TNGDH 020

The heavy atmosphere passed, and Sen smiled saying, "It's good that we can stay together quite a bit longer these days."

[ Current miracle value: 20% ]

Since I was able to change the fate of quite a big incident, the compensation was also hefty. Of course, if you think about it, the sacrifice I made was still a bit too harsh just in order to make it rise this much.

Still, thanks to this the duration of "Summon" is now two hours per day.

That means I can eat pecan pies for two hours! I picked up another slice and was about to take a bite when,

Knock. Knock.

The heavy knock made Sen's face brighten.

"He must be here."

Someone's coming?

My mouth snapped shut before even biting the pie and felt cold energy going down my spine... Hey, don't tell me...

"Ah! A while ago I met His Highness Kyle when I went to bring the pie and told him that you were here."

"What..."

"How can you not greet His Highness when he was the one who saved you? Do you know how worried he was when you disappeared without a word?"

"....."

Ah... I'm doomed.

In spite of my perplexed emotions, Sen cheerfully opened the door.

"Your Highness!"

The door opened and Kyle came in.

A handsome man stepped foot into the room, with a heart fluttering aura surrounding him... As if! There was no such man, instead there was a terrifying man, someone who conquered the North with his strength, of course he was still handsome, but......

His eyes are so intimidating!

My shoulders shook and I took a step back unconsciously. My back flinched at the shock, then hardened because of the pain. Yes, my back is better than yesterday but that doesn't mean it's fully healed!

I looked up at him, staying still awkwardly with no other place to retreat. To make matters worse, Sen announced that she was leaving, "Well, make yourself at home!"

Hey! Where are you going?! Don't leave us alone! How am I supposed to handle this, ah...

"....."

Kyle came closer to the lounge with his eyes fixed on me. The sound of his heavy footsteps seemed to sound more terrifying today.

Just by looking at his eyes, I felt like he was about to devour me whole. I faltered with my steps as I moved closer to the sofa.

He sat as well, not in front of me, but beside me. I gave way slightly by reflex... Hey, what's wrong with you. Why are you sitting next to me.

"You're alive."

He said, drawing himself closer to me.

Why? Are you uncomfortable I didn't die? Do you feel bad at the outcome? It was time to stop being passive and start loading up my eyes with bullets, let's see what this man has to say.

"I thought you were dead..."

His sincerity was reflected in his deep voice. I kept silent, somehow unable to bring out any words. I felt a little sorry.

'...You really must have been worried to death.'

I was injured and bled so much, there was no time to handle both me and the banquet's affairs. And I disappeared as soon as you settled me down at the study.

But I needed to do it. I don't have an excuse and I'm sorry I made you worry one-sidedly but there was no choice. Instead of waiting for the "Summon" time to end and endure the pain, it was better to release the skill and turn back into a hamster.

After thinking for a while, I mustered the courage to move closer towards him. But the face that greeted me was not gloomy or sad at all. He said all that with a straight face, man, I was worried for nothing.

"Were you that worried?"

Kyle sneered at my question,

"Do you think I'm a cold-blooded man who doesn't shed tears nor blood?"

"...."

"Well... That's what the people say that the grand duke is someone with no tears nor blood to shed."

His smile turned bitter at my response.

That's right, Kyle isn't like that at all. I've seen it with my own eyes, so why can't I still acknowledge his soft side. Someone like Kyle, who is compassionate towards the weak, and does not turn a blind eye towards his responsibility, is definitely a good person.

The Duke of Blake is much more affectionate and sensitive than what was displayed in the novel. He became strong in order to protect his people. He became meticulous in order to give the North a better future.

The more he worked hard, the more the world misunderstood him.

He has been called terrible names since he has conquered the barren land. He has been mocked by aristocrats for his execution of enemies. The imperial family locked him up in the North to "keep him safe."

"But it doesn't suit you, being a cold-blooded duke..."

Kyle's eyes bent slightly at my words.

"Anyways, I'm not dead so don't worry. I've living well so... My back doesn't hurt as much as yesterday, look I'm better enough to eat this much pie."

"The doctors said no other people came. It would've been difficult to treat it by yourself since you were injured at your back so how..."

"Well... Let's just say I'm a little more resilient than others!"

This body is not used unless I use the "Summon" skill, and since the system even helped fixed it, it's only natural that the wound would heal faster than normal.

"I won't disappear this time so, you can ask me if you have any questions."

I said while placing a slice of pie on a plate.

"Do you want some?"

Instead of taking the plate, Kyle held my wrist.

"If I lock you up, will you disappear?"

"...Your Highness, that is a crime."

"....."

"Is the grand duke above the law?"

"....."

"H-hey!"

Don't look so serious. If you look at me like that, I might flee again.

And it's no use if you lock me up anyway! I'll be back in the hamster house once the skill duration ends.

"You said I could ask any question."

"Well, yes."

"Why did you leave your clothes?"

"W-well, I was bleeding a lot, so I changed out of it before I left!"

"You had the energy to do that? You even took off the bandage."

"There were still some glass fragments on my back so-"

Ah... I'm just making things up...

"And."

"And?"

"Is your back okay?"

I already said earlier it's okay ah! It's healed enough to eat a pie... Wait! W-what are you?!

He turned me around and stretched out his arms to unbutton my shirt and pulled it down my shoulder.

It happened so quickly that I didn't even have the time to panic. The cold wind blew through the skin of my neck and my back and goosebumps came out.

'Hey! Is it normal to undress a person a like this?!'

I couldn't even struggle since my clothes were held firmly in his hands. I worked so hard to be able to get clothes, I'm not letting it get torn, who knows where I could find more.

Yeah let's stay calm. It's not like he'll do anything bad. But please, finish checking as soon as possible. If someone comes in, they might get the wrong idea!

"It seems the outside wound has healed..."

Kyle's fingertips wandered around my back. His touch was so soft and gentle as if he were touching something so fragile, that it would break with just a little force.

"But it might leave a scar."

"It's alright."

"The bruise might not heal until much later though."

"It's fine, it's not like my back is exposed anyways."

Right, a scar or two doesn't matter as much, compared to a scar left in your heart. You might think it healed, but sometimes you'll still remember and get hurt. *scar in heart is more figuratively, Shu means getting hurt emotionally is worse than physical injuries.*

"That's a relief."

Kyle whispered in a small voice which tickled my ears before it got carried away by the wind.

It felt strange to hear his whispering voice so closely. He felt relieved but my heart started to throb.

How many minutes are left?

"I..."

[ "Summon" will end in 20 minutes. ]

It's time for me to go.

When I looked back, Kyle's eyebrows were knit together. Why? What's wrong? Do you want me to stay in here forever?

"....."

He knows himself, he's making an unreasonable request. He doesn't want me to go, but he can't bear to say it, so he can only frown and knit his eyebrows like that.

'....Looking at him like this, doesn't he look like a black-haired puppy.'

A really really big and intimidating puppy.

His looks are like a curse, his actions are so cute that it doesn't fit his size.

"We can see each other tomorrow."

In the end, words of promise for the future left my mouth. Well, we can't be together all day, but I can still spend two hours as a human so...

"If you don't mind, we can meet here at the same time tomorrow."

It seems like this is the first promise I made to anyone since I came here.

If you ask me why I did it... Well, it just felt like I should. I just thought he'd be less anxious if I told him I'll meet him sometimes.

To be honest, having scheduled a meeting like this feels thrilling. It felt like invisible strings were intertwining my fate with his.

"I'm not going anywhere."

I have to save you; how can I save you if I leave.

"I see."

Kyle replied with a sigh.

"I'll wait for you."

In fact, I wanted to ask why you pay so much attention to me. Belial was injured and apparently another noble was nearby when the accident happened.

Out of all those people, you chose to care for me.

Why the hell are you doing this.

But the moment I made eye contact with him, I couldn't say anything. Whatever questions I had melted away from the tip of my tongue.

To be honest, I felt happy.

I don't even remember the last time someone cared for me this much. I only remember chasing life, always trying to make sure I was living well. Thinking about someone who will wait for me and care for me has never crossed my mind.

But Kyle.

Kyle probably understands this loneliness.

That's why he said that he'd wait for me so seriously.

"Alright."

A burning feeling started rising from my stomach and it warmed my chest and neck. Why is my heart tightening and throbbing like this?

"....."

Kyle's face came close. It was as close as when we danced yesterday.

His forehead seemed like it would touch mine at any moment, and his shallow breaths tickled my nose. We were so close; I could see myself reflected in his red eyes.

"...What are you looking at?"

"I just think, you look so much alike with someone."

I don't look like it, but I probably feel familiar to something you're thinking of. I felt a little bad for him who couldn't recognize me, so I stifled the laugh I almost let out.

"That kind of pick-up line doesn't work anymore, Your Highness."

Then Kyle laughed.

It felt like the coming of spring after months long of winter.

#tngdh

[qiutls]

TNGDH 019

Blink. Blink.

Only the blue system window shined in the empty black space. I finally came to my senses and reached for the system window with a sigh.

[ (*Д>゜<)o ]

Hey, hey. Don't cry. You've already seen me die once, this is just whatever.

To be honest, I thought since I died once, this would be child's play, but it's not easy to die twice. When I felt the pressure of the falling chandelier, I thought I'd rather bite my tongue and faint. In the end it seems like I really fainted.

I opened my mouth to ask the system, slowly touching the blue window. 

"I'm still unconscious right?"

[ Shall I turn off "Summon"? ≧ ﹏ ≦ ]

"No, don't release the skill now, just restore my consciousness for a bit."

If you lift it now and we're still at the banquet, or if there's people around me, it's gonna be a problem.

Above all, Kyle already thinks I'm suspicious, if I disappear in front of him again, who knows what will happen. It's going to be hard to make excuses.

[ Restoring consciousness! ]

[ 10... ]

[ 9... ]

[ ... ]

Why are you counting down?

I stared blankly at the system window slowly filling up with numbers.

'H-hey, don't tell me?'

[ 1... ]

The system window and black space disappeared in an instant and I was filled with pain once again. I gasped as if I had just been pulled out of water. I bit my lip, in order to swallow the scream that was rising out from my throat.

"Ugh!"

This is crazy. How is someone supposed to survive this. It hurts so much. I frantically curled my trembling body. My vision was blurry, and my back felt hot after being scraped by the chandelier. 

I tightened my grip on my collar and looked around. First of all, it seems like I was all alone, and the location seemed to be the study! Maybe Kyle brought me here, anyways it's a relief...

"Hey! System! Release now! Release the skill! Please."

I cried out in a desperate voice. When I first died, it was so sudden and quick and I didn't feel any pain, but this time was no joke. There was a reason the system was counting down; it was time to get ready for the pain.

White flashed around my body once more, like the chandelier's light earlier, and then when I opened my eyes, I was back in the hamster house.

― Squeak! [ Ack! ]

My body started slipping and rolled down the slide.

System, can you please position me properly next time?

 [ (；′⌒`) ]

That's right, you must be anxious too.

I sighed deeply and lay on the sawdust. My body and mind kept tingling. Well, the incident was prevented somehow. It all worked out in the end. But did my small body really block that big chandelier? That's ridiculous.

I only survived because that was a body I "Summoned." Maybe I made that decision because I knew I wasn't sacrificing my real body. Though it's true that my body moved before I could think.

'Kyle must've been very surprised.'

I turned and lay on my back. I got off the slide and tried to touch my back that was hit, but my arm couldn't reach it. I tried to touch it with my other hand but to no avail, I could only touch a void space before I put it down.

I piled the sawdust thickly in front of the house and sat on it, watching the event unfold.

Several doctors flooded into the study, only to find a patient missing, with just the bloody clothes left behind. All of them were quite shocked at the scene.

'That's understandable.'

The grand duke himself urgently ordered for them to check up on patient but he disappeared.

"W-where did he go?" "Search everywhere!"

The doctors talked amongst themselves, and started to search the study, but they couldn't find a soul.

No but why are you searching under the sofa and under the desk? You're trying to find a patient, not an assassin, do you think a patient would be able to crawl under the desk?

Soon, heavy footsteps started banging and the door of the study burst open. The man whose strides were quick and hasty stopped in front of the sofa. He seemed to clench his fist and called out to the attendant outside with an angry voice.

"Search the castle, he couldn't have gone far."

Excuse me, grand duke, you sound so much like a villain right now, what's with that voice.

The attendant quickly ordered the guards to move and search for the young man, while Kyle held his forehead and sat down.

That image burned through my eyes. If he's gone, then he's gone, why do you care so much. I'll return when I need to save you anyways. It's all for the miracle value.

'So, don't be too affectionate. Whether I'm a hamster or a human.'

I embraced the macadamia like a cushion, watching Kyle pick up the clothes I left behind. The white tailcoat turned dark red that you couldn't have guessed its original color. The back was completely torn and bloody, it seems like it won't come off easily even when washed. Too bad, that outfit seemed expensive.

"I wish you never accepted this flower."

Kyled murmured holding my clothes. The flower in the front pocket, was originally a flower with red petals, but due to the accident even the leaves turned red, and the petals were torn.

"Then we, no you, wouldn't have to dance."

His voice was full of guilt.

Don't say that it was going to happen whether you gave it to me or not. I couldn't stop Belial from going to the banquet, so I had to intervene myself. It's purely my choice and purely my fault, so don't.

'Well, I can't do anything about it now.'

I'm sorry, your hamster has a big liver...

*liver = courage, just in case you forgot*

*

The noisy grand banquet still ended quite successfully. I'm not quite sure how Kyle managed it, but once he left me in the study and came back to the banquet, it seems that he was able to calm the protests and solved the situation well.

Some royal nobles were stirring up trouble that the prince was heavily injured, however it seems Kyle was able to handle the situation but sharing the fact that the chandelier in question was given by the imperial castle. Adding to that fact, the budget the North receives is less than half of what the imperial family gets, so there was no way that the North would've been able to buy such an intricate chandelier.

Not to mention, though a big deal almost happened to Belial, I, a Northerner, saved his life and prevented things from becoming too ugly. In any case, this incident was solved.

"Are you sure you're okay?"

Sen glanced at me with a worried look and checked carefully from head to toe.

"I'm fine~"

I said while waving to distract Sen from the issue. She's already asked three times this morning.

Of course, this body is not fine, but it seems like the system used some stuff to mend it, so it no longer felt that much painful. Though, if anyone were to hit my back, I think I'd jump to the ceiling from surprise and pain.

I chewed on the maple pecan pie Sen brought me. The sweet and savory taste managed to comfort the hidden wound a lot.

"...Yesterday, I went to Prince Belial's quarters."

I almost spat out the pie at her declaration. I looked at her with my eyes wide open.

"Huh? Why?"

"You probably didn't see it, but His Highness protected me at that moment and was cut by glass debris. And well, you know everyone was out of their minds yesterday, and His Highness Kyle even mobilized the guards to look for you. There was no one to attend to his wounds so I..."

She said, and then looked at me suspiciously once more.

Don't look at me like that, I had a reason, okay?

"Anyways, he wasn't seriously injured... But he wouldn't have been hurt if he did not protect me."

I looked at her who strangely became depressed, so I said casually while finishing up the pie,

"He's a man who will be king of this country someday, it would be bad if he's someone who abandons his people."

"What's that word they use again, pride?"

I scratched my nose awkwardly, I needed to be careful of using the correct terms. 

"But, you know..."

Sen said gloomily, I waited for her in silence to finish ehr sentence. But I feel like I could read her mind, Sen's goal was revenge, now that she's closer to Belial, it's much easier to find an opportunity to carry out her wishes.

In order to achieve her goal, it seems like she needs to go to Imperial City. In the original novel < The heart of Winter > was set in the Imperial City where Sen was a maid in the Imperial Palace.

However, right now Sen is living in the North, so it's not easy to go to the Imperial City.

She needs power, whether it's to arrive at her destination, or to exact her revenge.

"What's wrong, tell me."

"...His Highness asked me to be a maid at the Imperial Palace."

Well, that's Belial's decision. You're a maid who knows a lot about the North, and is the one Kyle showed interest in, I'm not quite sure if Belial asked you to go with him because of affection or because he wants victory over Kyle.

There's no way a man like him, doesn't at least think like that. But it doesn't matter what his intentions are, since to Sen, it is much more important to get to Imperial City and to be able to have the prince as his backer.

"I think that's great!"

"...I know"

Sen agreed but she didn't look happy. It seems her situation is much more complicated than I thought. Was it that difficult to leave even though this is one step closer to her goal? Maybe she's grown attached to the North?

"I just think sometimes..."

Sen whispered.

"It may not be that bad to live with my past covered up."

Revenge is like a quicksand, even if you have gotten your retribution, it won't be easy to let go of the grudge. The only thing that is constant is the feeling of emptiness. The moment you step in, it will sink slowly and endlessly.

Well, what do I know. Whenever something unfair happened to me, I was sick of it and wanted to take revenge. The world is not a good place for a child who lost his family to live all alone.

At least, I know this part of Sen's thoughts. I have no choice but to know.

"And yet..."

I was going to say something, but I closed my mouth at Sen's words.

I know, you yourself chose this kind of goal. As for me, I didn't want to put up with it, so I emptied my heart and avoided my feelings, but you wouldn't.

You're strong. You probably won't miss this chance, no matter how you feel about leaving the North.

I thought about it. Sen's fate as Serena, is something certain, whether someone transmigrated into her or not, it was something that wouldn't change.

"Make a choice you won't regret."

That was all I could say.

Then, Sen smiled at me, though she looked like she was about to cry.

t/n: so sorry for not updating for 4 days! i've been so busy with life, i'm hoping i could get back into translating more chapters soon since i also want to read the novel quickly QAQ 

#tngdh

[qiutls]

hi, first of all i'm extremely sorry about the lack of updates T_T i have been quite busy irl and haven't had the time to sit down and read and translate... updates will still take quite a while before it returns to the original schedule, but for now i'm releasing all the translated stuff from ko-fi ^^ hope you all understand, tysm <3

[qiutls]

TNGDH 18

"Do you not want to?"

I asked wiping the crumbs of the cookie on my mouth. 

Kyle looked at me strangely, probably because I suddenly took out and ate a cookie from my pocket. Still, he offered his hand gently after I finished eating.

"Until now, I have never danced with the same person twice at the banquet."

Ah, is that so? If you don't like it, then let me go. It doesn't really matter who I dance with. I only want to get closer to Belial just in case something happens.

I thought he would let me go find someone else, instead he tightened his grasp and took me to the dance floor.

"....."

This punk. Please be consistent with your words and actions~ Your mouth says something, but your body moves otherwise.

"I thought you don't dance with the same person twice?"

I asked Kyle teasingly, yet he calmly replied,

"Well, I didn't say I didn't want to do it."

"Ah..."

I understand.

Well, it is indeed better to dance with him, lest I step on other people's toes. Not to mention, he's good at leading the dance, so there's no need to worry about making the wrong movement.

Soon, a sharp sound from the violin signaled the start of the next dance. Is this Chaconne? Even after listening to it, I couldn't figure out what the music was. Whatever, I don't have time to listen leisurely anyways.

This time, I shamelessly put my feet on his at the start of the dance. Kyle seemed perfectly fine with it and even danced to the music lightly as if I weighed nothing. The music this time seemed faster earlier, so the beat of the dance was considerably quicker, yet Kyle didn't seem to exert that much effort even as he carried me.

'He's really strong.'

I kept turning my head trying to find Belial and Sen. It was a good thing Sen's dress was a bright green color that reflected the chandelier's light. It was fairly easy to find them among the crowd.

Wait! No! That fool, Belial. Don't go to the center! Do you want to get hit with a chandelier!

"Ah!"

Sadly, a prince is indeed treated like a prince. The crowd that was originally dancing merrily at the center, instinctively moved aside. Kyle, after some consideration as well, left the center area.

'No... This shouldn't'

My insides felt like it was burning at the thought of what will happen if this continues.

With an uncomfortable feeling, my eyes traveled to look at the chandelier. Why does it look like it's shaking? The glare of the chandelier was bright enough to make me squint, yet I couldn't help but continue glancing at Belial and the chandelier above him.

At that time, Kyle switched our positions and took back my attention from the chandelier.

"Won't you focus?"

I replied flatly,

"Do I have to focus? Your Highness is doing all the dancing anyways."

That's why, dance well, don't mind what I'm doing. Don't let people laugh at us. Even though it's fine for me, since I already have no honor nor human rights, it's different for you, the Duke of Blake needs to keep his dignity.

Kyle grit his teeth, seemingly annoyed. While I kept shifting once in a while to check in on Belial and Sen, he looked as if he wanted to say, 'Stop caring about them.'

"Do you like Belial?"

If I didn't know any better, I would have thought that giving a flower meant you were getting married. I only gave that white flower in exchange for the invitation to the banquet, okay?

'... Well, I guess now that I think about it, it's a bit weird.'

It seemed like an unfamiliar person from the estate fell from the sky to give Belial flowers, in exchange for an invitation.

It's not just weird, it's outlandish. If I were Kyle, I would have pressured myself to confess what was my motive.

"No, that's not it... I-"

I said as I made eye contact with Belial. Trust me! Even though I seem contradictory right now, I just really don't want an accident to happen.

Kyle sneered at my reply.

"Even though you're looking at him so fervently?"

"...Who's looking fervently? I'm not though?"

If someone overheard, they would've thought I was sticking closely to Belial. But that isn't the case?

Belial Serena Minehardt, the Duke of Blake, Kyle's most outstanding rival. In order to save Kyle, I need to save him to increase the miracle value. If it wasn't for this mission, I wouldn't treat him nicely.

You do your thing, and I'll do mine, okay? I need to save that enemy of yours, to save the north, to save you, in order to save myself, ah.

"Forget about that, let's just dance. You're the Lord of this land, why are we dancing at the corner."

"....."

"Let's move a bit further over there, to the center."

Kyle looked at me suspiciously, but still listened to my words and move slightly towards the center. How kind of you. You really listen well, ah.

Just then a shrill sound chimed which made my head turn.

[ ⊙﹏⊙∥ ]

Looking at the system's reaction, I felt my stomach drop and my heart skip a beat. No matter how many days I worked hard, can I really not change the fate of this happening?

'No, right?'

That's right I can't let it happen.

Remember the reason I'm trying hard to change the fate of the original novel, I didn't work so hard just for me to be unable to change anything.

[ Σ(っ °Д °;)っ ]

[ (>︿<;)っ ]

[ (ㅠ_ㅠ) ] 

Several system windows came to my vision at the same time. It even flashed several times as if to represent its desperate feelings.

Screech.

The sound ringed louder than before, the chandelier swayed and casted a shadow against Kyle's forehead.

"Trust me."

I whispered.

"I won't do anything that will endanger your life."

Am I crazy? Why did I say that? Ah!

I smiled and came down from Kyle's foot and pushed his shoulders away. Everything happened so quickly, Kyle's arm loosening around my waist, me moving towards Sen and Belial.

Clack.

Just then, the climax of the song started, the strings loudly resonated in the hall, Belial and Sen were right in the middle of the dance floor. And the chandelier fell.

Kyle probably didn't realize it until it was late. It seemed like he stretched out his hand to pull me back, but he wasn't able to grab me. I don't know, I couldn't afford to look back.

"....."

Time seemed to flow strangely. It felt like everything was in slow motion. I stretched out my arm to push Belial away, but I didn't reach him, instead I pushed Sen. And Belial moved to catch Sen, and they both collapsed sideways.

Crash.

A loud roar sounded in the hall from the falling chandelier. At the same time, my body shook from the impact. Glass from the chandelier broke and scattered everywhere, the music stopped, and people were screaming.

Even Kyle screamed. I think he was calling out my name. 

My consciousness didn't last long, my vision blurred, and pain swept through my body. Come to think of it, I'm glad I fainted quickly, because I didn't have to suffer through that terrible pain for so long.

*

The grand banquet hall which was glittering in splendor just now fell into chaos.

"Guards! Quickly evacuate the guests."

With Kyle's urgent shout, the door opened, and several guards came to the hall in unison.

Kyle was hugging the fallen young man while checking the situation. Sen seemed to be supporting Belial who fell with her, his hands injured by the glass fragments from the chandelier.

"I'll do it!"

Kyle didn't answer and kept holding Shu in his arms.

"Call the doctor."

The guards nodded hastily and went to carry out his orders.

"Yes, Your Highness, we'll tell him to come here immediately."

"Wait, no."

"It might be too late if he comes here, I'll go there myself."

Kyle grit his teeth and looked at his bloodstained gloves that were tinted red. Judging from the condition, it was also inefficient to carry him all the way. It was better to meet halfway.

It's been a long time since Kyle worried this much.

"I need to go... to... the study..."

The man called Shu cried out. The strange young man then fainted after the sentence. Just now, he was hit by a falling chandelier, it was a good thing that it didn't land on top of his head. If it did, he probably would have died. 

"....."

Kyle couldn't afford to be worried at the state of the banquet hall. He immediately carried the man, towards the study. He was hurrying like crazy, running up 4 steps of the stairs while preventing from shaking the body in his hands.

He felt the young man's body turning cold, his clothes were wet with blood.

At that time, Kyle got nervous, he should've grabbed him. It all happened in an instant, but he managed to stretch his arms out probably due to intuition.

However, he wasn't able to save him. He missed by a hair's breadth. The last thing he remembered was his how his brown hair shook and like a ghost vanished before his eyes.

Then it felt like Shu's body was enveloped in a white light. Was it the light of the chandelier, or....

"You-"

Kyle wanted to ask the suspicious stranger, "Tell me, did you expect this to happen, were you looking around listlessly because, you knew what was going to happen? Did you look around for Belial, or because you knew of this upcoming disaster?"

You cannot see the future without being a prophet. But even then, prophets could not predict events this accurately. So how the hell did he know?

Kyle felt his insides burning. He has spent over ten years in the North battling beasts and has seen and suffered worse injuries than this. Nevertheless, there was an itching feeling in his gut, and he couldn't help but be worried.

"Don't die."

He muttered to himself.

'Don't die, you strange fellow.'

"Where's the doctor?"

"He was taking care of the other wounded delivered to him, but he said he'd be here in 10 minutes, with the tools needed for trauma treatment."

"Okay, I-"

Kyle wiped the cold sweat on the young man as soon as he lay him down. He took off his clothes and pulled out the fragments of glass embedded to his body and wrapped a bandage to stop the blood from flowing. 

Now he didn't have anything to do except wait. Kyle glanced at Shu's face, then at his chest which was moving up and down shallowly. 

'Hold on for just ten more minutes.'

Because of this situation, he had to solve another problem. If Belial is injured heavily, this could be a problem that would pose a major threat to the North.

".....I need to resolve the disturbance at the banquet hall, come with me."

"But, what about the doctor?"

"Just leave the door open so the doctor can come in right away and treat him."

"I understand."

Kyle forced himself to move back towards the banquet hall, yet his mind was still in the study. His hastened his actions, in order to resolve the situation quickly and come back to the side of the unconscious young man.

(kofi) t/n - sorry for no chapter yesterday! this chapter was a bit hard to translate since the raws i'm reading had a problem with the encoding and 3/4 of the chapter was not put into paragraphs, so it was hard to find where it starts and ends. (tumblr) t/n - sorry for the late update! it was my brother's graduation today and we went outside to celebrate and i completely forgot about uploading the chapter ^^;

#tngdh

[qiutls]

TNGDH 017

In fact the owner of the flower has been decided from the beginning, so there was no need to deliberate. I'll give it to you, okay? Since you helped me attend the banquet as exchange for it. After all I'm a law-abiding citizen of Korea, I don't break my promises.

"Here, Your Highness."

The entrance fee for this banquet.

I gave Belial the white flower with a bitter face. Still, he is indeed a prince, if he didn't get a single flower, it would be quite embarrassing.

"I'm giving it to you as I promised."

Belial glanced at me with soft eyes and smiled slightly with his eyes bent like crescent moons. It seemed like a graceful gaze that would melt anyone who was looked at.

"Thank you."

Hey, don't act too moved. Why are you so touched? It's not like it was a surprise gift.

Belial cut the stem of the flower short and inserted it onbliquely in the front pocket of his coat. I was wondering why despite his flashy clothes, he didn't wear a corsage, now I see why. This bastard planned this from the start.

"Receiving the symbol of respect from a subject of the Blake estate sure feels quite refreshing."

Belial turned his head slightly towards Kyle and asked,

"Don't you think so?"

He seemed to be quite excited to have an opportunity to be condescending. What are you a kid? Are you actually going to brag about a flower?

Kyle on the other hand didn't that much interested in his gloating and replied bluntly,

"Congratulations."

It was a tone that didn't seem congratulatory at all. His red eyes turned to look at me berating my actions.

What? What was I supposed to do? You already have a lot of white flowers from the citizens of the duchy. Look at your basket filled to the brim. So please spare this one flower, okay?

"What are you going to do with that one?"

Kyle pointed towards me, to be exact, he pointed at the red flower sitting in my hand.

I stood still and continued to grasp the red flower, while everyone else was giving it to others, asking for a dance.

Sen said this flower symbolizes love. But I don't have anyone I 'love' right now. Even as the human Bae Soohyun, I had built a Great Wall around me, rejecting any possible affection.

"I'm not giving it to anyone."

I said flatly.

Why are you asking? I'm not giving it to you. I'm not giving it to others as well. This is mine.

To make matters worse, Belial also anticipated my next actions. Apparently, Sen gave both flowers to him.

I already gave you one, and you still want more? You two brothers have no conscience! Are you toddlers? Stop competing for a flower! 

"....."

I really didn't want to give it to anyone, but how am I supposed to reject both the grand duke and the prince.

Can't you guys just pretend not to know? Let's just skip this, get rid of those competitive gazes. I sighed deeply, then put the stem in my mouth.

I am not giving it away! It's mine!

"Euf yeu reely weant it, then teuk it."

*he's biting the flower stem so he can't talk properly XD  'If you really want it, then take it.'*

...Well, I think the pronounciation was fine.

Even if I said it like that, it was understandable right? I turned my head away after seeing the glances from the crown. Get lost! Go and keep dancing, why are you looking this way.

"Pff- hahaha!"

Belial burst into laughter.

"Everything you do is really so strange, I didn't know there was such an interesting person in the North."

Kyle's eyes suddenly brightened, then he stepped in between me and Belial as if to block him, and offered me a red flower.

....Wait, what? Why are you giving that to me?

"Can I have your first dance of the day?"

Wait a minute!

"The music will start soon, will you accompany me for a dance?"

Stop!

Hey! This isn't right! Why are you asking me to dance out of all the people here. I can't even answer you properly because I'm biting a flower!

Kyle grabbed me by the arm, not even waiting for my reply. Before I knew it we were on the dance floor, and receiving strange looks from everyone.

...That's right, isn't it weird if the Duke of Blake, chose some unidentified man as his dance partner.

I'm doomed.

"I- I heuv never deunced befeur."

I've never danced before! Let me go, you punk.

Of course, there was no way he could have understood.

"Wheuy deu yeu weunt to deunce with me!"

Why do you want to dance me with me? There's a lot to choose from!

This time seems like Kyle understoon perfectly even though I said it with clenched teeth.

"Why do I want to dance with you? Because out of all the people here, you were the only one who...."

Kyle leaned down and whispered in my ear.

"What was it that you said? My companion?"

Fuck. This damn situation is...

I wanted to refute his statement but the flowers were in the way. When I moved my hand to remove it, he grasped my arm and put it on his waist. My other hand was also trapped in his as he lead me to dance.

Soon, at the sound of the music, we along with the other people in the dance floor began to spin like dolls in a music box. 

We moved with the cheerful waltz beat... And I kept stepping on Kyle's feet. I can't help it, I've never dance before. This kind of fast paced beat is sure to break my legs.

Stomp.

I stepped on his foot again, this time it was much harder than before, but Kyle didn't seem to be in pain. Well what else can he do, except endure.

"Why did you say that back then?"

"....."

Because I was confessing that I was your pet! Your pet hamster! This mouth of mine is the problem. Ah! Why did you say that Bae Soohyun.

This time I stepped on his foot on purpose, as payback.

"Come to think of it, you look strangely like someone I know?"

Suddenly Kyle lifted me slightly and let my feet step on his. We continued dancing like this. Well, more like he continued, since he was the only one moving.

'Am I not heavy?'

Anyways, thanks to this, I felt more comfortable. Now all I have to do is stick to him and not worry about following the beat.

Of course, the distance between us bothered me a bit. His bangs often brushed against my forehead and it made my heart feel itchy.

By the way, what do you mean I look like someone? Everywhere you look, all the face you'd see are westerners, where could you have found a face that resembles an Asian like me?

'... Don't tell me, you think I resemble your hamster?'

Ey, that's impossible, it's a different species. Hm, I guess there's really someone in the Blake estate who looks like me.

"Isn't that statement quite brazen of you?"

...Oh, you sly man. You're really fiendish.

Kyle said in a low tone,

"So, what do you think?"

His voice was cold and intimidating. I felt extreme pressure and my body was trembling as if my whole body's blood was being drained out.

I shrank reflexively.

N-no, but there's really nothing to say. I was originally going to ask if you thought I looked like your pet hamster, but now I don't think I can.

And this damn flower. This damn flower is my enemy. I'm glad I didn't drool on my shoes. That's right don't talk to me, or else I might drool on your shoes too.

"I think yeur just jeuking."

I think your just joking.

Right? It should be. Don't pry into me anymore, lest you get an idea.

"That's right, I was kidding."

Kyle's eyes narrowed, I didn't know if he was smiling or threatening.

"I guess it's time I take the flower now."

His head got closer and at that moment, I forgot I was on the dance floor. When his face filled my entire vision, I couldn't even hear the music the was originally loud.

It felt like we were the only ones who existed in the world at that moment.

"....."

Kyle seemed to move slowly. His face came close enough for us to touch foreheads and his eyelashes fanned my cheeks. He tilted his head slightly and took the red flower that had been in my mouth, our posture looked as if we were kissing.

"This... What..."

I closed my eyes and felt our noses touch. Soon, I opened my eyes and realized I lost the flower. What the hell?

Before I could argue, he pushed me away slightly and spun me around. While I was turning around to the sound of the violin, he broke the stem of the flower and placed it on his front pocket, just like what Belial did earlier.

Kyle did the job skillfully with just one lap of turn, grasped my hand and pulled me back in again. As soon as my body tilted, I stumbled and stepped on his foot again. He's such a great dancer, meanwhile I...

"What are you going to do if a rumour spreads that the Grand Duke of the North is into men?"

It seems like the north will be thrown into chaos as soon as word gets out.

Kyle answered my question blankly as if it was a small matter.

"I can afford to not have children nor a family, unlike some people."

"But aren't you the lord?"

"The North does not rely on lineage to choose it's leaders. Only the strongest can rule here."

"Ah right..."

I answered awkwardly. Let's just keep quiet.

"What's your name?"

"It's... Shu."

I said half-heartedly and looked away for fear that he might discover something.

The first song came to an end, and the crowd seemed to be a bit more active, looking for partners for the next dance. From the gap, I saw Belial and Sen move toward the dance floor.

'Hey System, how much time do I have left?'

[ "Summon" will end in approximately 10 minutes. ]

"....What?!"

10 minutes? That's not enough!

[ Would you like to buy an item from the 'Nut Shop'? ( •̀ .̫ •́ )✧ ]

There's no choice, the chandelier incident still hasn't been prevented. I sighed deeply and bought what I saw earlier.

[ Long-lasting Acorn cookie, consumes 1% miracle value, purchasing this item grants an extension of 1 hour for the skill "Summon." ]

A small snack came straight into my pocket.

"It really looks like an acorn."

I unwrapped the package and put it in my mouth without hesitation. 

....Tastes like acorns, but a bit bland.

"Well, I guess dancing to one song would be fine. As I told you, I'm not a good dancer."

"Don't worry, it's fine. I'll lead."

Belial bent down and offered out his arm for Sen to hold. The two of them seemed to be going to the dance floor this time.

'... Don't.'

My anxious gaze flew to the chandelier.

'You can't dance there.'

There's really no choice in this damned life, I thought as I reached out to Kyle.

"Please dance with me one more time, Your Highness."

Punk, let's do one more round.

t/n: i might not be able to post tomorrow since i'll be away the whole day, so here's an early update ! :D

#tngdh

[qiutls]

i just finished translating TNGDH chapter 20, and IM SKDFHSDFKSH sneak peek:

honestly the sweetest chapter yet also i needed to let out my feelings somewhere so i apologize if u got notified for nothing T_T

#just rambling

[qiutls]

TNGDH 016

There was a commotion upon our arrival. I could feel dozens of eyes staring at me and Sen followed by murmurs of the aristocrats at the banquet.

This kind of attention is too burdensome and... No, let's just forget it, thinking about how taxing it is, is also troublesome.

The guard continued to look at the back of the invitation and looked at me like I was some weirdo.

'Belial Serena Minehardt.'

I'm someone who came with the invitation of the prince, so of course, they're not letting me in and choosing to make a spectacle out of this.

"Wait here for a moment."

"I already gave you the invitation, what do you mean 'wait'?"

Sen who was awkwardly fiddling with her exposed neckline due to the structure of the dress and her tied-up hair, asked irritably.

"You're saying you received this from the prince himself?"

The guard continued to say in a flat tone, as if seemingly knowing Sen.

"A maid and an unknown person came to the banquet with the prince's invitation. Do you think it's believable? What if you guys stole this invitation and caused havoc in the banquet? It's going to be a pain in the ass to solve the situation."

"How could that be? It's true that I gave that invitation to them. Will you be responsible if there's any problem?"

"Yes, yes, I will handle- Y-your Highness!"

The guard who was originally continuing to talk down on us, bowed his head in a hurry.

Coming from the back, Belial who was dressed in vibrant clothes walked towards us with his arms folded. If you said it was a tiger coming straight towards us, I would have believed you. Right now, he doesn't look gentlemanly one bit.

Belial's green eyes narrowed at me and then glanced at Sen's and my clothes.

"It fits you well. Do you like the clothes I prepared?"

"Yes, Your Highness."

I answered frankly.

"It fits me really well to the point that it's a bit strange."

How could you have guessed it so accurately with just your eyes. Are you a pervert?

"It's because I have a good eye, by the way, why haven't you gone inside yet?"

At this point, the guard could no longer stop us from entering the banquet. It was best not to get in the way of aristocrats.

He gave way with an embarrassed look, and only then did Sen and I enter the banquet hall. The person behind us didn't have an invitation, yet it was impossible to stop him from entering the banquet hall.  Just how thick is his face?

"...Wow."

Honestly, the banquet hall was amazing. I even wondered if all the money amassed from the north had been poured into it.

The grey ceilings and walls, which originally had felt desolate, were brightly lit up and gave off a pleasant feeling. There were countless people walking around and each table was filled with food and alcohol.

'It's definitely a once in a year luxury.'

I heard that a crowd of people came from the capital, no wonder, if I also experienced this, I'd come back again. Considering the money these aristocrats spent in the North during the festival, it's considered more of a bold investment than a waste.

I looked around fiddling with my uncomfortable stiff neck.

'...An hour. Can I make it in an hour?'

The time limit was more generous than before, but that doesn't mean I should be relaxed.

If I'm unlucky the chandelier might fall off as soon as I leave the banquet hall. I glared at the innocent ceiling.

[ Here's a surprise event for just you!  ٩( ᐛ )و ]

Ack! You scared me.

I backed away with a start, surprised at the screen that suddenly showed up in front of me. Can't you let me know first before showing up!

[ ｡:ﾟ(;´∩`;)ﾟ:｡ ] Ah... The system can't even knock...

"Anyway, what's this damn surprise event?"

[ Celebrating the miracle value reaching 10%! From now on, you can use the 'Nut Shop'! (However, all items are one-time only. ※) ]

What shop? Nuts? Nut shop?

'...Why? The walnuts I didn't eat are buried in sawdust at the study though...'

[ Should I show you the items? ]

This kind of explanation, maybe its different from what I'm thinking?

I glanced at the surroundings making sure no one was paying attention and nodded slightly so it didn't show. Sen seemed to be busy talking to Belial, and Kyle was occupied as the host of this grand banquet.

I went to the table full of food and began to take whatever looked appetizing.

Soon, items from the 'Nut Shop' appeared one after another in the system window.

[ Pecan Pie in the air, consumes 4% miracle value, purchasing this item can grant you flight for 10 minutes. ]

[ Chameleon Pistachio cookie, consumes 3% miracle value, purchasing this item can grant you invisibility for 30 minutes. ]

[ Detoxifying Chestnut bread, consumes 2% miracle value, purchasing this item can neutralize all kinds of poison, you can even relieve hangovers with it! ]

'...No, wait a minute!'

I'm not paying for it with money nor nuts, but miracle value? Isn't that too mean. This miracle value is my lifeline!

There was a series of other items below, but most of them were very useless.

Anyway, if there's anything I need that much to use the miracle value, I need to use it well... But not right now, I only have 11%.

"Wait."

At that time, there was an item that caught my eye.

[ Long-lasting Acorn cookie, consumes 1% miracle value, purchasing this item grants an extension of 1 hour for the skill "Summon." ]

An item that increased the skill's duration.

So you're taking away 1% miracle value, and only adding up to an hour? Aside from that, I can only buy it once? It's so not cost-effective!

"I'm gonna go crazy."

I can only hope I wouldn't need to buy it.

"Whatever, let's eat first."

That's right, even in Geumgangsan, eating is priority. I've been starving all day, I think I'm going to die of hunger if I don't eat now. I began to eat the food I piled up on my plate, savoring each bite.

*Geumgangsan is a mountain in Busan that's famous to hikers, basically its a very intimidating hike and Shu is comparing that mountain to the currently troublesome situation.*

After all the chandelier in question still hung peacefully at the top of the dance hall, yet no one was dancing. Belial was talking to other aristocrats, and Kyle... Wait is he looking towards me? That's impossible!

I stabbed the fork right through the fish in my plate and placed the meat in my mouth. The sour and sweet taste spread through my tongue.

'Hmm. That's delicious.'

The fish meat was juicy and savory despite being out in the cold.

I also tried the salad with some grilled vegetables, and dried plums while I was at it. I thought the texture of tomatoes would not be enjoyable as it is soft, but it also adds flavor as it was grilled thoroughly.

"I thought dishes would be a little bland in the North, but it's unexpectedly flavorful."

I guess it's because all the meat is juicy. Magical beast meat, which were neither beef nor lamb, was fried crispy on the outside and dipped in sauce. When I took a piece and put it in my mouth, it felt like the meat was melting at how tender it was.

...I was a little curious what kind of meat it was, since it was more tasty than I thought. But I somehow feel like I shouldn't know. There is indeed a saying, that ignorance is bliss.

[ (00) ]

Don't say anything! If I don't eat this now, when will I ever get the chance to eat it?

So while others chatted in moderation, I ate hard. When you're thirsty, there's plenty of champagne to go around, then you can eat again. When you feel like your sugar level is dropping low, enjoy a cream cake as dessert. After that, you can start from the beginning and drink soup as an appetizer.

'Hmm. It's probably fine to eat this much.'

Isn't it known that it takes 2 hours to fill your stomach during a buffet. Well, at least that's what I remember. I've only eaten for around 30 minutes, I have a lot more time.

I dipped a piece of bread into the chocolate sauce and accidentally made eye contact with Kyle as I put the bread in my mouth.

Seeing his eyes full of concern, he must be thinking that he wants his hamster to eat as well as me. Don't worry~ I'm eating quite well right now, aren't I?

"You-"

...Huh? What's this.

Kyle's expression looked unusual.

He slightly raised his hand to stop the crowd gathered around him from talking and excused himself. He took large strides towards me.

I thought the distance between us was quite wide, but with his long legs, just a few steps brought us closer in an instant.

"...Me?"

For a moment I could feel the northern wind blow at my neck, giving me goosebumps... Don't tell me.

"Have we met before?"

Of course we did. But you probably can't remember it properly because I was wearing a maid's uniform. I answered half-heartedly and avoided his gaze.

"I don't think so, Your Highness."

I hope you think so too.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

Then, Kyle's crimson eyes flashed dangerously.

'Ah... You're not falling for my lies, aren't you?'

There's quite a few people here, so let's move on and forget about these insignificant memories. Come on, it's not like announcing you caught a pervert in front of this many people is a good image.

And in the first place, I'm not a pervert! I'm a victim too, okay?

"That companion-"

No! That's not me!

I hurriedly stretched out my arms to cover his mouth. What are you saying ah! Companion what? You're talking nonsense! And right now I'm a human okay, not a companionship hamster!

Kyle stared into my eyes, what his gaze meant was clear, 'Look, we have met before, haven't we?'

...You clever bastard. So that was a trap?

"Ehem, won't you say the food here in the North is quite delicious?"

I stepped back, pretending I didn't care about this meeting.

"I think I'll have one more plate."

But Kyle clasped my arm, stopping me from moving. He was only using one hand, yet he prevented me from taking another step. Ack, you're so strong, I guess you're not the leader of the North for nothing.

Still, this is wrong! I don't have an excuse, okay? I was wrong, but I was desperate and made a mistake. Like I said, I wasn't confessing my love okay, I was saying that I'm your pet hamster. It just got cut off at the most important part. Ah I'm going crazy!

"Haha, let me put this plate down first."

At times like this, ignorance is the best!

That's right. I don't know anything.

I tried to wriggle my hand free from his grasp once again.

"Hm, it seems like my guest is in trouble."

Belial looked at me, and then at Kyle's grasp on my wrist. A big smile was plastered on his face.

Kyle looked at Belial grimly, as if he wanted to punch him at this second, but instead released me slowly.

It's a nice situation. I'm afraid if I were in my hamster form right now, Belial's head would've been cut off already.

"Did you just say, your guest?"

"That's right, grand duke, this person, is someone special to me."

As I hid behind Belial, Sen came quickly, distributing flowers amongst us. White and red flowers with petals that were sturdier than other flowers were given to the guests. It seems like a type of camelia that grew in the Northern lands.

"The flower presentation is commencing soon."

Sen whispered.

"After the flower presentation ceremony, the main dance will start. Have you attended the ceremony before?"

"...No."

"The meaning of white flower is respect and the red one is love. Usually the people of the north give the white flower to His Highness, Kyle, and the red flower is given to their lovers to request for a dance, or to confess to someone they adore."

I nodded as I listed to Sen's explanation. I noticed the large basket near Kyle's seat. Since the people of Blake's estate typically give the white flowers to Kyle. The aristocrats also show courtesy by giving him their flowers. It was common sense to show respect to the leader of the land after all.

'I... I already promised to give this flower to Belial and not Kyle.'

Just then, I could feel Kyle's gaze over Belial's shoulders. What's wrong with you! You're gonna burn a hole into me.

"Everyone! The flower presentation ceremony starts now!"

With the announcer's declaration, I felt two pairs of eyes fall on me.

...Ah.

I'm doomed, again.

t/n : thanks for the support everyone! up to chapter 19 is available here, early update since i wont be available at 11 am ^^

#tngdh

[qiutls]

hi! do you mind me scanlating the promo webtoon for TNGDH?

hi! i'm pretty sure it's been scanlated a year ago !! if you search TNGDH (the full name) + webtoon, there's a bunch of sites to read it on~ i'm not planning on scanlating it, unless i finish translating TNDGH fully and have some extra time.

[qiutls]

TNGDH 015

"Maybe he didn't want the two of you to be upset?"

People who were gathered around looked at us as if we had said something so absurd.

It was expected, of course. Who doesn't know the reason Belial came to the North? It wasn't enough to just send aristocrats and find trouble with the estate, the imperial family came forward and wanted to find fault by themselves.

Kyle's biological mother, as written in < The Heart of Winter >, was a commoner who ended her life as a maid, not being able to be recognized by the imperial family, nor even buried with a grave. For Belial, who's a prince and a member of the imperial family, Kyle's existence itself is an insult to his so-called noble bloodline.

I understand it's hard to accept the situation. His biological father suddenly got someone other than his mother pregnant and made him accept that child as his brother. If we were bound my original world's laws, you'd be stoned to death. But still, that isn't Kyle's fault.

*Okay, so this is how I found out Belial and Kyle are half-brothers, and not uncle and nephew... correcting the other chapter where it says Kyle was the son of previous emperor*

Belial turned his head to look at Sen.

"Because it will make me upset?"

Sen picked up the bag of walnuts from the floor and said calmly.

"Yes, Your Highness."

Belial looked at me this time. He stared at me with questioning eyes, 'Is that really the case?'

I don't know. I don't know what Sen meant; we didn't talk about this before. But I smiled at him, hopefully making him believe Sen more.

Fortunately, Sen continued.

"There will be a flower-giving event at the banquet, which marks the final day of the Northern festival."

"And?"

"People who attend the event are supposed to give flowers to someone they love and respect. The people of Blake will naturally offer their flowers to their master, Lord Kyle."

'There was something like that?'

The system quickly answered my question.

[ A crooked smile lay on Belial's face. His eyes scanned the large yet empty straw basket next to him. The basket next to Kyle was filled up to the brim with white flowers. Not a single symbol of respect was given to him. It was as expected. This is why he needed to get rid of Kyle and get rid of the North as a whole. ]

'... This was more dangerous than I thought.'

There's no reason to hate Kyle that much, there's also no reason to hate people who just want to make a good living. You can't really judge people based on their faces. You may look good, but your personality is dirty.

"This is basically a tradition in the North. I'm worried that Your Highness will be hurt."

"Hmm."

Belial didn't seem interested in me anymore, he passed by me and went directly to Sen.

Although the plot of the story must've been changed, it is true that their fates are intertwined, and they're bound to form a relationship. Belial's gaze at Sen looked unusual.

However, it was a misleading gaze. It wasn't an 'I fell in love at first sight' look... It was a gaze that felt so hot it could burn.

'A look of possessiveness?'

That's right, it felt like a desire to win, rather than love.

"What's that you're carrying?"

Belial looked at the hamster supplies and snacks.

There was cotton candy-colored cushions, plastic balls, sawdust, and swings. Why does it look like they're trying to make a theme park for hamsters?

"Ah yes, you're the maid who's been to the grand duke's study a lot."

"His Highness is raising a magical beast and I am merely helping him with miscellaneous things."

Okay, you two talk. I'm going to leave.

Anyway, now that there's a reason, don't go if you can help it. It's a one-of-a-kind life, don't you think you should try and protect it and live for a hundred years?

I was creeping back and about to disappear from the gathering when Belial called out to me.

"Hey, you."

"......"

Please don't pay attention. Don't worry about me. The time for "Summon" is almost over. I need to go now, so you two have fun.

Belial grabbed the back of my hand as I tried to pretend, I didn't hear his call. I turned my head to look at him and forced a smile. That's right let's just laugh. This damn social status, you'd be dead by now if you weren't the prince. Seriously...

"Did you really mean that?"

Why are you still asking?

It was difficult to refute the statement, so I struggled and ended up agreeing.

"Yes, well... I'm not good at explaining stuff so I was thinking how to tell you, but Sen took the words right out of my mouth so..."

Belial cast a glance at me as if he were seeing something strange. He treated the magical beast indifferently, but he seems quite interested in people... No, maybe, he's just curious at interesting stuff.

"You can give me flowers then; I won't be upset."

What are you talking about? How can I go to the banquet? I don't even have an invitation!

Even if I tried to go as a servant, the competition to be hired during the banquet was huge. In other words, I'll end up frying or picking up food, and have no place to intervene.

I looked at him in embarrassment, and Belial took out a piece of paper and handed it to me with an indifferent expression.

"Come."

It was an invitation to the banquet; it even had his name written on the back. Probably because he's classified as VIP, Kyle even wrote the invitation himself.

'Ah...'

My head throbbed when I saw the invitation and I almost swatted it away.

If we're being honest, it was a good opportunity. If Belial attends the banquet and decides to do anything suspicious, the best way to stop it is to stick by his side and prevent anything from happening myself.

However, the moment I received this piece of paper, it felt like my future would be more tiresome than it is now.

"... Yes."

I took it. What else can I do? Rip it in half?

As the duration of "Summon" is ending, I slowly excused myself and went back. I bowed my head and sighed constantly on my way back to hide my clothes.

'I shouldn't run into Kyle at the banquet.'

But there's no way to avoid meeting him. Ah! Why did I say that when we met!

Life is really not easy.

*

The next afternoon, as soon as I dressed up, I met Sen.

"I've been looking for you! Where the hell have you been? I've asked the guards and they've never seen you leave nor enter the gates, and you're not sleeping at the servant's quarters, and no matter how many guest rooms I've searched, I couldn't find you."

"Ah, that-"

I've been sleeping at Kyle's bedroom. Since I'm not disappearing randomly these days, Kyle has been comfortable enough to let me out of the hamster house.

It turns out I didn't have good sleeping habits, whenever I came to my senses, I was sleeping on Kyle's face. He'd grab me from the back of my neck, put me back down and wrap me tightly in a handkerchief, and go back to sleep.

At first, I didn't like being swaddled at all, but because of the cold winter nights, I found that it was more comfortable than I thought. As the morning dawned, I found myself back at the hamster house again.

In the afternoon, after pretending to play with the toys he gave that was bought by Sen, he said that he was going out and put me back in the house.

"Well... that's what happened."

I couldn't think of any excuse, so I decided to be vague and remain silent. It's better to give an impression that's a little bit suspicious than to be caught lying.

Sen stared at me for a moment before dismissing the conversation as if it wasn't important.

"I've been looking for you since morning."

She handed me a big box that was heavier than it looked.

"What's this?"

"It's a suit for the banquet. His Highness, Belial, sent it. He didn't even know your name, yet he gave you this."

"Oh..."

What an amazing guy, he didn't even know my name, but he thought about preparing clothes for me. Indeed, it was weird to receive a flower from a stranger, so he probably gave the invitation and prepared clothes so it would seem less strange.

"I got one too!"

Sen smiled and lifted another box.

"He asked me to come with him. It's the first time I'm wearing a dress. Actually, there was one time I wanted to wear something like this but..."

I pretended not to see Sen's slightly sad face.

"Anyways, thanks to you Shu, I get to wear pretty clothes like this. By the way, why did you tell the prince not to go to the banquet? Was it really about the flowers?"

"Ah... about that, it's not about the flowers, I just don't have a good feeling."

I felt ashamed and cut the conversation short.

"Anyways, you go attend the banquet! It's good to attend as a guest and not as a servant."

"You're right! I will surely repay this kindness."

"If that's the case, then pay it back with food!"

Northern food is really delicious.

"You're such a glutton! Where does everything you eat even go?"

"... I know right?"

It's actually going straight into my hamster belly.

Thanks to that, Kyle has been touching my belly fat more than kissing me. Even though I try to kick his hand every time he does it, he thinks I like it and that I'm trying to play so he continues to do it. I think he'll even mistake my swearing for a serenade.

I talked a little more about the banquet with Sen and then we went our separate ways.

Eating the bread Sen gave me as we parted I thought, 'Northern food is really a delight.'

The thinly sliced meat, vegetables that overcame the tough winds of the cliff, and bread fresh out of the oven were as delicious as famous fast-food franchises in my world.

I kept my daily clothes and the suit in the box hidden once again, patted my stomach and the white light enveloped me once again. As soon as I turned into a hamster, I felt heavy.

'Kyle is going to nag me again.'

Maybe I can hide when he comes back if I slip through this hole.

".... Cashew Nut."

―…….

Fuck.

I murmured curses as I felt my body crammed in the cylindrical hole. Is it right to swell up like this?! Just because I ate two sandwiches, I can no longer fit here? I ate just two!

[ 乁(・o・)ㄏ ]

Yeah, I'm larger, but not that much... Maybe I grew around 15 centimeters.

I held my breath and tucked in my stomach to slide down the hole as Kyle gave me a worried look. Hey, who cares about gaining a few pounds! It's not like I have a terminal disease.

"You're not eating the food I've been giving you; I don't know how you're gaining so much weight."

It's because you're not bringing something delicious Your Highness. He kept touching my stomach the whole time, seemingly worried. Okay, let's not play today.

Kyle brought me to his bedroom to sleep again tonight, and as soon as I woke up in the hamster house in the morning, he forced the macadamia in my mouth.

Go, do your duties!

I'm going to a big banquet this evening. If I want to eat all the delicious food there, then I need to make space in my stomach.

Of course, Kyle who had no idea what I was thinking, stared at me grimly, before placing me back at the hamster house.

t/n sorry for the late update & for not being able to markdown the text! ill edit it later when i get home ^^

#tngdh

[qiutls]

TNGDH 015

"Maybe he didn't want the two of you to be upset?"

People who were gathered around looked at us as if we had said something so absurd.

It was expected, of course. Who doesn't know the reason Belial came to the North? It wasn't enough to just send aristocrats and find trouble with the estate, the imperial family came forward and wanted to find fault by themselves.

Kyle's biological mother, as written in < The Heart of Winter >, was a commoner who ended her life as a maid, not being able to be recognized by the imperial family, nor even buried with a grave. For Belial, who's a prince and a member of the imperial family, Kyle's existence itself is an insult to his so-called noble bloodline.

I understand it's hard to accept the situation. His biological father suddenly got someone other than his mother pregnant and made him accept that child as his brother. If we were bound my original world's laws, you'd be stoned to death. But still, that isn't Kyle's fault.

*Okay, so this is how I found out Belial and Kyle are half-brothers, and not uncle and nephew... correcting the other chapter where it says Kyle was the son of previous emperor*

Belial turned his head to look at Sen.

"Because it will make me upset?"

Sen picked up the bag of walnuts from the floor and said calmly.

"Yes, Your Highness."

Belial looked at me this time. He stared at me with questioning eyes, 'Is that really the case?'

I don't know. I don't know what Sen meant; we didn't talk about this before. But I smiled at him, hopefully making him believe Sen more.

Fortunately, Sen continued.

"There will be a flower-giving event at the banquet, which marks the final day of the Northern festival."

"And?"

"People who attend the event are supposed to give flowers to someone they love and respect. The people of Blake will naturally offer their flowers to their master, Lord Kyle."

'There was something like that?'

The system quickly answered my question.

[ A crooked smile lay on Belial's face. His eyes scanned the large yet empty straw basket next to him. The basket next to Kyle was filled up to the brim with white flowers. Not a single symbol of respect was given to him. It was as expected. This is why he needed to get rid of Kyle and get rid of the North as a whole. ]

'... This was more dangerous than I thought.'

There's no reason to hate Kyle that much, there's also no reason to hate people who just want to make a good living. You can't really judge people based on their faces. You may look good, but your personality is dirty. 

"This is basically a tradition in the North. I'm worried that Your Highness will be hurt."

"Hmm."

Belial didn't seem interested in me anymore, he passed by me and went directly to Sen.

Although the plot of the story must've been changed, it is true that their fates are intertwined, and they're bound to form a relationship. Belial's gaze at Sen looked unusual.

However, it was a misleading gaze. It wasn't an 'I fell in love at first sight' look... It was a gaze that felt so hot it could burn.

'A look of possessiveness?'

That's right, it felt like a desire to win, rather than love.

"What's that you're carrying?"

Belial looked at the hamster supplies and snacks.

There was cotton candy-colored cushions, plastic balls, sawdust, and swings. Why does it look like they're trying to make a theme park for hamsters?

"Ah yes, you're the maid who's been to the grand duke's study a lot."

"His Highness is raising a magical beast and I am merely helping him with miscellaneous things."

Okay, you two talk. I'm going to leave.

Anyway, now that there's a reason, don't go if you can help it. It's a one-of-a-kind life, don't you think you should try and protect it and live for a hundred years?

I was creeping back and about to disappear from the gathering when Belial called out to me.

"Hey, you."

"......"

Please don't pay attention. Don't worry about me. The time for "Summon" is almost over. I need to go now, so you two have fun.

Belial grabbed the back of my hand as I tried to pretend, I didn't hear his call. I turned my head to look at him and forced a smile. That's right let's just laugh. This damn social status, you'd be dead by now if you weren't the prince. Seriously...

"Did you really mean that?"

Why are you still asking?

It was difficult to refute the statement, so I struggled and ended up agreeing.

"Yes, well... I'm not good at explaining stuff so I was thinking how to tell you, but Sen took the words right out of my mouth so..."

Belial cast a glance at me as if he were seeing something strange. He treated the magical beast indifferently, but he seems quite interested in people... No, maybe, he's just curious at interesting stuff.

"You can give me flowers then; I won't be upset."

What are you talking about? How can I go to the banquet? I don't even have an invitation!

Even if I tried to go as a servant, the competition to be hired during the banquet was huge. In other words, I'll end up frying or picking up food, and have no place to intervene.

I looked at him in embarrassment, and Belial took out a piece of paper and handed it to me with an indifferent expression.

"Come."

It was an invitation to the banquet; it even had his name written on the back. Probably because he's classified as VIP, Kyle even wrote the invitation himself.

'Ah...'

My head throbbed when I saw the invitation and I almost swatted it away.

If we're being honest, it was a good opportunity. If Belial attends the banquet and decides to do anything suspicious, the best way to stop it is to stick by his side and prevent anything from happening myself.

However, the moment I received this piece of paper, it felt like my future would be more tiresome than it is now.

"... Yes."

I took it. What else can I do? Rip it in half?

As the duration of "Summon" is ending, I slowly excused myself and went back. I bowed my head and sighed constantly on my way back to hide my clothes.

'I shouldn't run into Kyle at the banquet.'

But there's no way to avoid meeting him. Ah! Why did I say that when we met!

Life is really not easy.

*

The next afternoon, as soon as I dressed up, I met Sen.

"I've been looking for you! Where the hell have you been? I've asked the guards and they've never seen you leave nor enter the gates, and you're not sleeping at the servant's quarters, and no matter how many guest rooms I've searched, I couldn't find you."

"Ah, that-"

I've been sleeping at Kyle's bedroom. Since I'm not disappearing randomly these days, Kyle has been comfortable enough to let me out of the hamster house.

It turns out I didn't have good sleeping habits, whenever I came to my senses, I was sleeping on Kyle's face. He'd grab me from the back of my neck, put me back down and wrap me tightly in a handkerchief, and go back to sleep.

At first, I didn't like being swaddled at all, but because of the cold winter nights, I found that it was more comfortable than I thought. As the morning dawned, I found myself back at the hamster house again.

In the afternoon, after pretending to play with the toys he gave that was bought by Sen, he said that he was going out and put me back in the house.

"Well... that's what happened."

I couldn't think of any excuse, so I decided to be vague and remain silent. It's better to give an impression that's a little bit suspicious than to be caught lying.

Sen stared at me for a moment before dismissing the conversation as if it wasn't important.

"I've been looking for you since morning."

She handed me a big box that was heavier than it looked.

"What's this?"

"It's a suit for the banquet. His Highness, Belial, sent it. He didn't even know your name, yet he gave you this."

"Oh..."

What an amazing guy, he didn't even know my name, but he thought about preparing clothes for me. Indeed, it was weird to receive a flower from a stranger, so he probably gave the invitation and prepared clothes so it would seem less strange.

"I got one too!"

Sen smiled and lifted another box.

"He asked me to come with him. It's the first time I'm wearing a dress. Actually, there was one time I wanted to wear something like this but..."

I pretended not to see Sen's slightly sad face.

"Anyways, thanks to you Shu, I get to wear pretty clothes like this. By the way, why did you tell the prince not to go to the banquet? Was it really about the flowers?"

"Ah... about that, it's not about the flowers, I just don't have a good feeling."

I felt ashamed and cut the conversation short.

"Anyways, you go attend the banquet! It's good to attend as a guest and not as a servant."

"You're right! I will surely repay this kindness."

"If that's the case, then pay it back with food!"

Northern food is really delicious.

"You're such a glutton! Where does everything you eat even go?"

"... I know right?"

It's actually going straight into my hamster belly.

Thanks to that, Kyle has been touching my belly fat more than kissing me. Even though I try to kick his hand every time he does it, he thinks I like it and that I'm trying to play so he continues to do it. I think he'll even mistake my swearing for a serenade.

I talked a little more about the banquet with Sen and then we went our separate ways.

Eating the bread Sen gave me as we parted I thought, 'Northern food is really a delight.'

The thinly sliced meat, vegetables that overcame the tough winds of the cliff, and bread fresh out of the oven were as delicious as famous fast-food franchises in my world.

I kept my daily clothes and the suit in the box hidden once again, patted my stomach and the white light enveloped me once again. As soon as I turned into a hamster, I felt heavy.

'Kyle is going to nag me again.'

Maybe I can hide when he comes back if I slip through this hole.

".... Cashew Nut."

―…….

Fuck.

I murmured curses as I felt my body crammed in the cylindrical hole. Is it right to swell up like this?! Just because I ate two sandwiches, I can no longer fit here? I ate just two!

[ 乁(・o・)ㄏ ]

Yeah, I'm larger, but not that much... Maybe I grew around 15 centimeters.

I held my breath and tucked in my stomach to slide down the hole as Kyle gave me a worried look. Hey, who cares about gaining a few pounds! It's not like I have a terminal disease.

"You're not eating the food I've been giving you; I don't know how you're gaining so much weight."

It's because you're not bringing something delicious Your Highness. He kept touching my stomach the whole time, seemingly worried. Okay, let's not play today.

Kyle brought me to his bedroom to sleep again tonight, and as soon as I woke up in the hamster house in the morning, he forced the macadamia in my mouth.

Go, do your duties!

I'm going to a big banquet this evening. If I want to eat all the delicious food there, then I need to make space in my stomach.

Of course, Kyle who had no idea what I was thinking, stared at me grimly, before placing me back at the hamster house.

#tngdh

[qiutls]

TNGDH 014

The festival began in earnest in the North, and the celebration was lively enough to forget the coldness of the winter.

'Hmm, why are they holding such a big festival when it's not even the season of harvesting?'

It's hard to get flowers during this time of the year, since the cold wind blows day and night, it must be expensive to buy them from outside. It's not even thanksgiving, nor spring... Why is the festival celebrated during this cold season?

"Because the day is short."

Sen answered my question clearly.

"It's a period of time where there's less stuff for people to do. And people tend to get depressed easily when the amount of sunlight is reduced. Lethargy makes people sick; the poor starve to death and the pessimists often kill themselves."

I see. I've never thought of that.

I looked up at the red sky beyond the castle walls. The sun was already setting even though it was still early in the day.

"So, His Highness deliberately makes the coldest and darkest times lively. Spending this week, by generously releasing food collected throughout the year and buying people's goods at a high price. Aristocrats from the city are also invited to spend money for the merchants to earn their keep. It's like giving a gift to the people of the estate in order for them to keep enduring until spring."

That means, while Kyle's not hanging out with me, he was taking care of everyone in the estate. I honestly admire it.

"Soon, His Highness will deliver a speech to commemorate the charity event. Do you want to go and see it?"

I nodded.

There's still time left anyway. I tried to meet Belial, but unfortunately, I still couldn't, so I just looked around the castle. Since the time for "Summon" was doubled, I can enjoy this luxury.

"Are they selling food on the street?"

"Have you not tried the festival food? Oh, this can't do! Come on, follow me. I'll treat you today!"

The place Sen led me to was teeming with people and stalls.

'Wow, there's really a lot to eat.'

There're orange-colored candied apples, grilled barbeque and lots of fried snacks and sweets covered in caramel sauce. My eyes, nose and mouth are all satisfied with all the food surrounding me,

'Life in the north is better than I expected...'

Only when there's delicious food can a heart full of love for the estate be born. I watched the vividness of the street while taking a bite at the food Sen bought me.

"Your Highness!"

"Thank you so much, my lord!"

The festival was more exhilarating than I thought, and so was Kyle's speech, which we watched from afar.

It was good to watch him from a distance that could be reached at any time if I wanted. But the Lord of Blake, exuding greatness, who could only be seen from afar, is also pretty cool.

He looked at his subjects from the stage with a blank expression that seemed cold to anyone else.

If you didn't know anything about him, you would misunderstand and think he was a villain or a tyrant.

But I know that's not the case at all. I haven't been with him for a long time, but I already know him well. What more for the people who have been living in this estate for years.

"It was really a good choice to come to the North."

"Who said otherwise? If it wasn't for Your Highness, we would have all starved to death a few years ago."

This was someone's vivid life, which cannot be explained by just a few lines in a novel. The reality is that the energy and passion of the people does not cool down despite the harsh winter wind. Their indomitable determination to live and breathe keeps them going.

"Who said you were a cold and unfeeling Duke of the North...."

If you look at him at any angle, you'd obviously see otherwise. Of course, I like it better like this than what the book described.

"Here, eat this too Shu."

As I stared at Kyle, Sen came to me with honey-coated fruit skewers on both hands.

I took a big bite of what looked like Tanghulu. It was crunchy and juicy, the fruit itself tasted almost fresh, perhaps because of the cold northern climate. Before I knew it, I've already eaten all four of the skewered fruits.

It was a fruitful hour, I ate delicious food and met new people. It almost felt like I was free from everything.

But now it's time to go back, I looked back at everything with regret. My eyes which scanned the street landed on Kyle, who was distributing rations directly to the people.

Hmm, it was a good choice that I decided to save you.

"The only problem is, can I actually do it..."

"What did you say?"

"...Ah! It was nothing. I was just talking to myself. Thank you for the snack, I'm off now."

Sen tilted her head and asked,

"Why are you always in a hurry to leave every day? I haven't even seen you for more than an hour."

"That- It's, well it's complicated."

I want to stay longer too. There's a pile of food to eat from here to there. That beer, that homemade sausage, and beef jerky? Just imagining them is already making my mouth water.

I eventually returned to the castle with a bag of snacks.

'I should get home before Kyle comes back.'

I shouldn't make him worry this day, or else he might turn the study upside down trying to look for a hamster.

However, there was another problem I overlooked.

"Cashew Nut, as long as you're healthy, I have nothing else to wish for."

I ate too many again, so I went home full and turned a blind eye to the nuts left in the bowl. Kyle put the macadamia near my mouth trying to make me it, but I really couldn't take another bite.

The magicians came and said they still didn't feel any mana from me, and Kyle's face became dimmer at the suggestion that he inject more magical power to me.

Kyle wrapped a handkerchief around me and brought me to sleep with him in his bedroom. But what do I do, I can't sleep since I slept a lot during the day.

I spent the whole time tossing and turning around Kyle's sleeping face.

'You're quite handsome...'

This is what they mean by being full just by looking at a handsome face huh?

I can't get enough of it.

*

I have a lot of worries.

I did locate Belial's room. However, it was embarrassing to even pass by because of the knights guarding the door.

Is it tradition for the royal family to set up guard posts outside their bedroom? You live a strict life.

Agh! Listen people, I'm trying so hard to save your lives, but how is it a possible that not a single one of you take me seriously? That villain like chandelier! I get so upset looking at it. That item doesn't care for anyone's safety!

It has already been three days since I discovered Belial's room and have walked nearby to chance upon the prince. What can mulling over it do, I can only confront him and say it upfront.

Now that the banquet is just around the corner, if I keep wasting time like this, I'll end up sacrificing my body when the time comes just to prevent the accident.

There's nothing I can do, if I can't see you today, I'll have no choice but to enter your room through the window.

"Oh-"

Just then, I saw Belial walking at the hallway on the other side. There were several knights around him, but I could see his face when I tip-toed.

I apporached him in a heartbeat. There was no time to think. This is my last chance. My desperate voice called out,

"Prince!"

With a snap.

Belial's green eyes landed on my face the same time his knights drew their swords out and placed them near my neck. I could feel the cool sensation of the blades tightening on all sides of my neck.

If this continues, I might get cut just by swallowing saliva. Please go easy on me hmm. I was just calling out to the prince.

"Uhm, this is a little..."

Isn't this too much for someone who doesn't even have a weapon? Even if I was really crazy and tried to kick Belial, my legs wouldn't even reach his head.

Belial raised his hand.

"It's fine."

The problem was that even though the prince was amiable, the knights were not and started shouting at me as soon as they placed their cwords back.

"Be polite to His Highness!"

What? Why? Is there something I should do before greeting? Should I kneel?

Judging from the atmosphere, it seems like I should. When I stood up after kneeling, the atmosphere seemed to be better.

'I got it. I got it.'

I'm like a dirty, low-ranking commoner.

"I'm sorry to disturb His Highness' business like this but..."

I lowered my head and said,

"Please don't go to the banquet."

I'm not that good at talking, so rather than explaining my actions and why I'm asking him to do this, it's better to just say it directly.

Belial took a step closer to me. His shoes came into my view of the floor. Compared to my shoes which were dirty, his were sparkling clean. Is this the saying children from different families are different.

"There are only two days until the banquet, you don't want me to attend all of a sudden?"

"Yes."

"Even though I just received the invitation from the Grand Duke?"

"Yes."

I answered carelessly.

Why do you keep asking me ah? Are you going to block that falling chandelier with that invitaiton? If you get one shot, you should shoot it. If I can save you, then I'll save you.

I lifted my head slightly.

"I'm just informing the prince." The future of the North can only be protected if you are careful. I know nothing aside from that, I'm just a pet hamster who doesn't even pay for its own food.

"You're saying that as if someone has planned to hurt me at the banquet."

Belial whispered near my ear. His voice was clear and gentle, yet his words were cold and rough.

"That's not true."

I answered casually.

"If you're thinking that His Highness Kyle has plotted to kill you, he wouldn't wait and cause trouble at his own banquet to do it, Your Highness."

And Kyle will never want that to happen. He is a person who will never do that nor even think that in his mind.

He is the leader of the North. His actions are closely linked to the future of the people in this estate. And Kyle knows his responsibility. He is quite different from you who just came here and tried to cause a scandal.

"That's funny."

Belial laughed quietly, as if I had said something weird. Him and Kyle say the same stuff as if they were brothers.

He slid his arm and grabbed my chin with his fingers, tilted my face upwards and made eye contact with me. I thought a man couldn't be both gentle and rough, but he can definitely do it. In this sense, you could say he's a great man.

But of course, to other people, he probably just looks like a gentle and fairy like prince tilting my head to see my face.

"What a strange face. It looks unique."

It's because I'm a native Korean. Your Highness, if you go to Hongdae, or Sangsu or Hapjeong, you would find 500 people who look like me.

"Why are you stopping me from attending so desperately seeing as you're not even from the North?"

What should I say.

I can't just say, I don't want you to get hit by the chandelier and lead the North to destruction.

I feel like I've seen my future in a book if I do say those words to you, my life will end with a sword slicing my throat.

Somebody help me!

Is it possible that there's someone who's fate is tied to Belial, will step in for me, just coincidentally.

"Perhaps..."

They're here.

"They just didn't want you and the grand duke to be upset during the banquet."

I turned my head in delight and saw Sen, who was holding hamster toys and snacks in her arms.

'That's right!'

[ (*≧▽≦)ﾉｼ ]

'... Although I'm still quite nervous.'

It isn't a lie that I'm happy right now.

Sen came closer to me with a smile. Is it just me? There seemed to be a halo around her right now.

T/N I do hope Sen/Serena stays this way and doesn't harm Soohyun/Shu or Kyle in the future ☆ｏ(＞＜；)○

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[qiutls]

TNGDH 013

"It's obesity, Your Highness."

'What?'

"What?" Oh, I thought I was finally able to talk, but it was Kyle's voice.

The doctor who noticed the anger in the Grand Duke's voice trembled slightly.

"W-well, that, Your Highness' pet hamster, ah- I mean magical beast has no appetite and is inactive, so I thought that m-maybe..."

It was a breathtaking honorific, I'm the only one in this world to be treated this way, by the one and only veterinarian here.

Indeed, since this hamster is cherished by the Grand Duke, one can't carelessly say brash words like 'this rat' in front of His Highness, for fear of losing their voice.

It's absurd, but what can I do? They must be aggrieved to be born into a world where their status is less than a different species.

"It is a little difficult to determine if it has a disease because no trauma nor abnormal symptoms have been found. There was also no pain when I pressed its stomach. It's just when I pressed it carefully-"

"When you pressed it?"

Kyle urged him to speak with a serious look. The veterinarian shivered and continued as if he had been threatened with murder.

"..... It was j-just belly fat!"

I must've gained weight.

I slumped back down and looked at the two humans who were staring at me alternately. Why? What are you looking at? Is this your first time seeing a fat hamster? It's probably your first time, look at you two, you practically can't take your eyes off of me.

Of course, I knew why I gained weight. I ate too much during the morning. The food here in the North is pretty good, no scratch that, human food is just delicious compared to dried pollack. It's worth living as a human even if I was fed rice paste every day.

[ (^(00)^) ]

'... Did I eat that much?'

This morning Sen introduced me to the work at the kitchen. The servants were supposed to make fried sandwiches to distribute them to the refugees, but they were afraid of splashing oil, so I decided to help them out.

Who am I? I'm none other than the self-righteous man who worked at a fast-food franchise in Gangnam for four years, to earn tuition for college.

My amazing frying skills can fry any dish, you name it!

While frying, I took a bite of a sandwich to avoid the eyes of the people staring at me. Then I also took a bite of twisted breadstick, another bite of a sandwich, another bite of breadstick. One bite of donut, a bite of fried meat..... I had 10 bites. How many times did I repeat those 10 bites again?

Anyway, I ate my fill for 30 minutes. Kyle doesn't even give me fried eggs that hamsters can eat, why should I miss out on my only chance to eat high calorie foods.

I felt like a resident employee doing "bad things" prohibited to the newcomers, it felt good. Thanks to this skill, I have a chance to eat rice balls again. As expected, even if you roll in dog poop field, living is still better than dying, well living as a human, I mean.

When I left the kitchen patting my stomach, I heard the servants say how the food that came out of the kitchen seemed to be less than they thought. Ah! I don't care, I put an iron plate on my face and said I don't know why that happened. It seems like it was so cold in the North, that my face thickened.

Well, that's basically a summary of what happened in the morning.

"But Cashew Nut hasn't eaten since this morning!"

Kyle said panicking.

Of course, I didn't. If you were me and you just ate a box of fried food, would you still be blinded to eat nuts all day? You eat it.

But this morning, I didn't just stuff my stomach, okay? In order to prevent the chandelier incident, I tried to tell some servants and attendants to inspect the central chandelier at the banquet hall.

The problem was that my identity was ambiguous, and although my words were convincing, why would they believe someone who's unfamiliar and kept bothering them to check the chandelier.

The last servant I talked to just gave me a basket full of bread and said, "Don't insult the castle that is providing for you, just fry the food properly, so you don't get in trouble."

Anyway, after eating so much in the morning, Kyle was probably worried seeing me sleep all throughout the day and just waking up in the afternoon. So, he explained to the doctor, how I had no appetite and no energy.

"Look again, are you sure you didn't miss anything when checking its stomach?"

The veterinarian touched my stomach again out of courtesy and pressed down, his voice shook as he said.

"It's really just fat..."

Silence filled the room.

All right, take your hands off of me, you're trembling so much you even shook my whole body.

"I see..."

Kyle spoke in an unconvinced tone. I slipped away from the doctor's palm and went to hug his (Kyle's) elbow.

Take it easy, okay? If the vet said I gained weight, then I gained it. Will a hamster die just because he's fat? I'll even eat a nut or two during dinner, alright?

Kyle stroked by back with his fingertips perhaps because my silent consolation was too strong.

"..... How can you be obese when you're so cute."

Ah, this is shocking. It seems like there's no logic left in the North.

The vet seemed to think the same thing as I did, but he just kept quiet and bowed his head. That's right, there's only one life and we should cherish it.

"It seems like you need more care from now on."

"Yes, Your Highness, periodic care is very important. You should let it exercise as much as possible and avoid giving it a fatty diet. It would be helpful to feed it boiled vegetables. And don't worry too much, isn't the magical beast, still in its growing period?"

I'm sorry to say this, but my growth period ended 10 years ago...

"Probably after the growth period, the problem will be solved little by little as the body grows. So don't worry too much, Your Highness."

"Alright."

"Are bodies of magical beasts usually this big?"

"No, it's larger."

"Then, Your Highness, you may need to change things like the wheel, the size of the room, maybe even the house itself."

Kyle replied without hesitation.

"I can change it a hundred times if needed."

It's a tearful love for a hamster. Why are you spending so much money and love on me.

"By the way, you said periodic care."

Kyle pondered for a moment and said,

"I think your skills are good, and since this magical beast will continue to grow, why don't you settle here in the North."

"Here, in the North..."

The veterinarian seemed to have doubted his ears.

It's normal, of course. From the moment he checked on me, Kyle has worn a serious look, he probably can't understand why Kyle wants him to stay.

But maybe it's not a bad suggestion seeing as his face is slightly flushed. Is this guy in the original novel?

[ Veterinarian. Approximately 15 days until the estimated time fo death. ]

Death again? 

'Tell me how he's supposed to die.'

[ Belial's mother, the current empress, Serena Minehardt's old cat fell ill, and this veterinarian wasn't able to treat it, so he was executed immediately after the cat's death. ]

This reason... Is too absurd...

Is a veterinarian a god?

Isn't it common for pets to die of old age? You're killing a man because he couldn't make your cat immortal? She's an empress with no brain ah.

It seems like he used to work in the palace and realized the cat's situation and ran here to the North by joining the procession in disguise of taking care of horses.

If he had a reason to settle down in the North, it would be a great opportunity to save his life. While Kyle was busy paying, the vet's face was turning brighter and brighter.

"Don't worry about money, I'll pay you for treating him."

Money doesn't matter! Promise him you won't kill him even if this hamster dies, you tactless creature!

"Is there anything else you want? I'll negotiate with His Majesty (Belial) if you still have any concerns."

The veterinarian seemed to wonder whether it's better to stay with the royal family or here. Although they seemed like they would both do the same thing, an obese hamster's life expectancy seems to be longer than an old cat's.

"No! I'm honored to stay and be at your service, Your Highness."

There you go!

I went to the edge of Kyle's hand and patted the doctor's arm as a compliment. You made the right decision. This is the way to lengthen your life. 

[ The person who was fated to die is no longer in danger. ]

[ Miracle value has risen! ]

[ Current miracle value is 11.0% ]

Wow, it went up 3% in an instant. Saving people's live is indeed the right way.

My eyes brightened at the realization, if saving a no name character gives 3%, then how much more would I get if I save Kyle!

Add a zero next to the 3 next time, System. Write it big when the time comes.

[ The duration of "Summon" has been increased to 1 hour. ]

The skill which originally lasted for 30 minutes only has been increased twice. It's probably due to the miracle value exceeding 10%.

Alright! I'll get up earlier and eat 30 more fried- ah..... No let's stop eating that. At this rate, I might really forget how to walk.

The hamster's body was too honest. You gain as much weight as you eat. It's fortunate that my human body still stays the same.

"Cashew Nut."

After extending his life expectancy, the vet now has a bright face. However, Kyle still looked gloomy, as if he heard my life was ending soon.

Hey, you punk. It's you who has a month to live, you shouldn't be worrying about me. Technically, I- I'm already dead. I already died so.

..... I need to raise the miracle value, so that both you and I could survive. I have no choice but to trust the system.

"Cashew Nut, you must have heard what the doctor said earlier right?"

Usually, hamsters don't understand people, Your Highness.

"Occasional exercise can lengthen your lifespan."

Kyle put me back in the house and said solemnly.

Ahhh, I don't know. I don't understand. What exercise? I already ran a thousand laps on the wheel, I think that's enough exercise for my whole life. If you want to exercise so bad, do it yourself!

"Hurry up, don't you like this?"

He put the wheel in front of me and began spinning it with his finger while looking at me anxiously. The wheel turned like a Ferris wheel, and it improved my mood. Oh, he's actually good at acting cute, turn it around more!

"Cashew Nut, please."

― Eek! [ Don't wanna! ]

"Just one turn, okay?"

― Squeak! [ You do it yourself! ]

It's annoying, I don't want to exercise. After you sigh, everything you eat is already digested. Didn't you think I'm cute as a chubby hamster? Just accept it!

'By the way, what should I do with Belial.'

Ever since that day they almost fought, Belial hasn't visited the study once.

It's not hard to find out which room he's staying, but I can't get in as a servant. It's no use even if "Summon" lasted for ten hours instead of an hour.

'..... How to prevent the chandelier falling during the banquet.'

Ah, how am I supposed to do this.

I can already feel a headache coming. Mr. System, isn't this too difficult for a hamster to accomplish. Please change the difficulty to beginner mode!

[ _(:3」∠)_  ]

You're just lying down? Fine I'll just lie down as well.

I fell asleep drowsily after watching Kyle acting cute for a long time.

T/N: I'm sorry if the quality of the translation this time is a bit lacking, I'm currently sick, but since I already started translating this chapter, I thought I should just finish it before I let myself rest. Once again tysm to everyone who donated, it is much appreciated!!! novel ⠀✿⠀ next

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[qiutls]

hi just a little update, i might publish 1 chapter per MWF of TNGDH from now on, since i caught up with the old chapters I hope that it's fine to lessen the amt of releases ^^

i also caught a cold and feel bad which is why i have been translating less T_T

[qiutls]

TNGDH 012

After the two fought, the miracle value rose to 8%, perhaps because I changed the course of the original plot.

This is quite expensive for just one performance of painting. Although, because of this act Kyle called for a veterinarian the day after.

'Your magical beast is quite cute, Your Highness....'

There was one problem, the doctor that came seemed to know nothing about magical beasts and could only say the sentence above.

But it was to be expected, how could a doctor who only examines rodents have any idea on what's wrong with a magical beast. I think it's even more amazing that there are veterinarians in this world.

'Was my acting too real...'

At this rate, if I really sneeze, the whole castle of Blake might be sent into a frenzy. The future of the North is bleak...

Kyle seemed to not want to leave my side, yet he didn't have a choice since it was a busy time and he needed to look over the preparations. It's not easy to be in charge of a territory. Still, seeing that the affairs are being finalized, he seems to be pretty good at his job as a lord.

Eventually he left the study to check the dinner preparation during the afternoon. He looked quite commendable today, so I'll let him kiss up to 5 times.

Thanks to him being busy, I also have some free time. As soon as I confirmed that he has moved far away from the study, I quickly used the skill and became human.

[ Good luck! (ෆ`꒳´ෆ) ]

*

"So you're saying your name is... Shu?"

I'm doomed.

I'm tired of saying 'I'm doomed', but I have no other words for this situation.

Right now, I'm roughly dressed in different pieces of clothing which I found in other laundry rooms along the path from the maid's laundry. I managed to find an attendant's uniform.

And although it didn't fit, I was lucky to find leather boots clean shirts and pants.

​Thanks to the nice situation, I felt a little elated thinking my luck has finally turned around, that is until I ran into Sen at the hallway.

"Well, yes, I guess-"

Sen frowned as I spoke indifferently.

"Where in the world would you find someone who says, 'I guess' when asked about their name."

Where you ask? It's here in this world. Since you wouldn't believe that my name is 'Cashew Nut,' I could only say 'Shu.'

I don't have any other name prepared, if I said my real name which probably doesn't exist in this world, you would think I'm strange.

So, I could only say that my name is 'Shu'. It's taken from Cashew Nut, although it's not a good name, I took it from the name the Grand Duke sincerely bestowed upon me.

The quick-witted Sen immediately recognized that I was wearing someone else's clothes. It's because of this shirt that's suspiciously large on my frame.

"Did you steal these clothes? Are you perhaps the infamous, companionship pervert-"

"I'm not!"

Of course, it's me, but I can't admit it!

What do you mean companionship pervert, I'm just a companion okay? When I shouted in reply, Sen grumbled and said,

"If it's not you, then why are you yelling?"

Luckily, she was as kind as she was clever. Instead of accusing me, she decided to listen to my explanation.

Thanks to this, I was forced to come up with a sob story of my past on the spot. I stammered and told her how my family was killed by demonic beasts when I was young and how I had nothing to wear now since I outgrew my old clothes. I also told her I couldn't remember the name my family gave me, so I gave a name to myself, thinking it was an appropriate name for me.

..... Come to think of it. It was not far from the truth, when I was young, my parents did indeed die, due to a car accident. And I was poor and unable to buy clothes.

"I see. It is indeed common for refugees to enter the estate or the castle during the festival. That's why His Highness prepares a lot of food during this period. A lot of orphans like you stumble around here."

Sen looked at me with a complex expression and said,

"I also lost my family, so I came here all the way to the North, just like you, I don't have anyone left."

She seemed to have felt sorry for me.

After our conversation, Sen disappeared for a while then brought back a few clothes. She said it was clothes usually worn by servants. It was simple and clean, and it was easy to move my body wearing it.

Thanks to Sen, my situation actually became better, so I gave the stolen clothes back to her.

"Shu, it seems that we are hiring more servants because there's not enough workers in the castle these days. Why don't you apply? You can stay at the castle, and you won't have to steal clothes like this anymore."

"I won't steal. Really, please believe me. I'm also embarrassed by my actions."

I can't believe I have to look for a job here as well. It's really hard to make ends meet. Everything was free when I was just a hamster. Ah, maybe because I paid it with my human rights.

I asked in a faint voice.

​"But there's going to be an interview, right?"

"Of course, they don't just blindly pick. And working here in the castle is much more sought out than you think!"

"Is that so? How many rounds will the application process have?"

Sen looked at me blankly as if I asked a weird question.

"Hmm? How many what?"

​"It's nothing..."

That's right, this isn't even a company. There might not be enough spots as well, so I need to do my best to get picked.

After that, I stuck with Sen as she gave me a tour of the castle. I earnestly memorized the layout of the Blake Castle and at the same time, eavesdropped on servants passing by in case I hear any rumors, I learned the way to the study, I found out about a passageway used by servants only, and discovered rooms that were not being used.

Thanks to this, I also found a good place to hide my clothes. It was the most fulfilling 30 minutes I've spent since I've transmigrated.

"Can I leave you for a bit? I need to give these documents to His Highness, he asked to strengthen the security, so I made a new timetable for the soldiers patrolling."

"Oh that, His Highness said he was going to return to the study, he must almost be there by now, it's fine we can take our time."

W-what? His Highness is returning to the study? Already?!

I stood stiffly on the spot.

It hasn't even been long after 30 minutes as a human, this plan is ruined again. If this continues, it's easier to count the moments in life that's not ruined.

"So that's everything about the East Tower, now let's look at the Central Area where the banquet hall is found... Huh? Shu! Where are you going?!"

"Sorry, I forgot about something I needed to do! I'll look around the banquet hall next time!"

Right now, the problem isn't that I can't look around the banquet hall. If I'm not back in the hamster house in 3 seconds I'm afraid the Blake castle will be turned inside out again.

I quickly stuffed my clothes in the unused storage room and closed it from the inside. I need to hurry and go back and pretend like nothings amiss...

As soon as the white light wrapped around my body, I suddenly felt uneasy. I had an instinctive intuition that I shouldn't release the skill without thinking.

'Hey system, can I specify a location inside the hamster house?'

[ Of course!  ]

'Then... please put me in the most out of sight. Where was it again? The place where I piled up the sawdust to make the ground soft? It's around the corner of the first floor.'

The white light slowly wrapped around my body again and as it flashed the surroundings turned brown. It seems I arrived safely as expected...

Then someone suddenly grabbed my body.

― Squeak! [ What the?! ]

"Cashew Nut."

His voice was several times lower than usual. Even when Belial was here, I don't think his voice sounded this gloomy.

Kyle's eyes fell on me, and my body trembled reflexively. H-hey! Wait a minute, what's wrong with you? Let's talk, just t-talk it out. Of course, you don't understand what I'm saying but-

'.... Why does it feel like your eyes are a bit off.'

No, not just a bit, I meant a lot.

"I thought you disappeared."

​I did disappear, but I was going to come back, it's just you came back before me!

I rolled my eyes and glanced at his hands, the tendons on his wrists, turned black and blue, as if he was preventing himself from exerting too much force on his hands.

Seeing the sawdust stuck between his fingers, he must've been searching the floor of the house when he saw I wasn't at the usual spot with the feeding bowl and toys.

Thump. Thump. 

A heartbeat that seemed quite fast could be felt from the palm of his hand.

Why are you so nervous. I'm just a magical beast found in the wild. If you act like this, people will think you love me more than you love your own life.

"Cashew Nut, please don't scare me like that again."

I heard him sigh.

Kyle looked at me with complicated eyes and gently stroked my head. His hand that was holding me was shaking, yet the hand that swept through my fur was so gentle and stable.

"Am I ridiculous for liking you this much? I don't know if the rest of the world thinks like Belial. But from the first moment I held you in my hands, I was determined to give you all the love I have. Isn't it natural to cherish you with all my might since I decided that you'll be my companion."

Why are you speaking such touching words.

I stopped twisting in his grasp and stretched out my paw to touch his palm.

​'You really must've been worried.'

That's right, I suddenly disappeared just a few days ago while you were washing up. For me, I was just turning into human to look around the castle, but for you it must have been shocking to find that I've gone.

I felt sorry towards Kyle. But I can't help it, I need to go out... Okay then, I'll adjust my schedule, how about going out when you're sleeping? Alright, let's do it like that.

Kyle put his lips briefly on my forehead and said affectionately.

"I want to make you the happiest magical beast in the whole world."

What a commendable remark. It's this hamster's luck to be picked by you. It's indeed convenient to live when your owner is a kind human.

"And if ever someone kidnaps you, he will not have the luxury of being buried in one place."

I take back what I said about you being kind. This owner is a bit strange. Please, don't be to obsessed with hamsters!

"Tomorrow afternoon, the vet will come again to examine you, Cashew Nut. It still bothers me that you fainted out of nowhere. Maybe you're too skinny.... I'll bring you a lot of special snacks tomorrow morning. For now, here, Sen brought you a beef snack."

Wow! Beef... Alright I'll let you slide even if you're too overbearing. Korean beef.... Ah, there's no Korean beef here. Northern beef, come to me~

By the way, you make me eat until I'm full every breakfast, lunch and dinner, but you think I'm skinny? Just because you can hold me with one hand doesn't mean I'm skinny!

​Back in my old world, I was originally a glutton. I ate a lot and ate more freely once I got here. I guess I brought that habit with me here.

'Is the hamster constitution, the same as human constitution?'

​Of course I don't know, I've never lived as a hamster before. Excuse me, does anyone know what's the average weight for a hamster?

"But it's alright, since you're still cute."

To Kyle, I seemed to be the definition of the most perfect specimen in this whole universe.

'This hamster otaku.....'

Hmph, still I felt a bit happy today, so I'll let it slide and call you a kind owner.

T/N:

everyone tysm for the notes and follow! it's really nice to see the number of readers grow! also please don't forget to support the author by buying the raws! it's linked at the novel masterpage :)

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[qiutls]

TNGDH 011

'Ack, my whole body is aching...'

I can't count how many days I've been working out in this supposed no exercise life of mine.

As if that wasn't enough for the muscles of my body to scream out of pain, the uncomfortable cohabitation with mealworms lasted all night and I had no choice but to sleep at the top of the slide which was a tight fit for me.

How can someone sleep with a bug by their bedside. I can't do it. I mean, I'm a cowardly urban type of person who can't even farm because of insects.

I really can't live like this. This is unfair, I want to run away from home. That's it, I'm leaving the house!

"I prepared a different special meal for you today, Cashew Nut."

Just as I've made up my mind, Kyle came into the study to collect the bugs at the corner of the house.

"Sen said this raw food might not be to your taste. It's my fault."

― Eek! [ That's right, you were wrong. ]

"This morning I prepared dried pollack, and later in the evening I'll let you have some beef. There's plenty of meat because it's festival season. Tomorrow, should I bring you some chicken?"

'... Maybe I should think about running away twice.'

Hmm. That's right put your whole heart into it, since you're set in taking care of me anyways.

Kyle's face lit up noticeably as I came down the slide and looked up at him. He quickly put a piece of dried pollack in my hand and took the water bowl I spilled and filled it with clean water.

I nibbled away at the dried pollack. It seems it wasn't seasoned at all since he was planning on giving it to me, so it tasted a little bland, but it was worth eating. To be honest, this is a blessing considering the past few meals he tried to make me eat.

'It should've been like this in the first place.'

If I had no choice but to eat the bugs... Ah my poor life.

I choked and drummed my fist on my chest, then Kyle placed the water bowl beside me.

"The castle's atmosphere has been unsettling recently. Although you'll only be staying here and there's really nothing to worry about, just in case that pervert who confessed comes back..."

― Squeak!

I suddenly choked drinking the water and it almost went through my nose.

'W-what? The p-pervert who confessed?!'

Isn't that me? No, but which crazy bastard made that as my nickname?

"But don't worry, Cashew Nut, you have nothing to worry about, I've placed a guard in front of the study."

Of course, I have nothing to worry about, because that pervert is actually me...

When I shook my head, Kyle lifted me up and made a face as if he was dying because of my cuteness, then proceeded to shower me with kisses.

Hey, stop! Why do you care about kissing me more than giving me food. Do your men know you live like this, huh? 

You said you were the Duke of the North. You said you were the strongest knight in Minehardt, and that you don't have tears nor blood. You're supposed to be the greatest leader of this barren wasteland. But you're just a damn hamster otaku!

"Your Highness."

Someone knocked on the door and Kyle put me back inside the house in the speed of light, and pretended nothing was amiss.

He spoke with a stern look, as if he was a completely different person.

"Come on in."

Wah, are you really the same person just now.

I can't get used to it, no matter how many times I see it. He completely turned his back from my gaze and received a report from the knight.

The second prince, Belial Serena Minehardt, was about to arrive at the estate.

*his name is Serena too... I thought only empresses could have that name bc the book said so, maybe the second name of the characters are their mom's name, since Kyle's second name was Jane?*

The report was so meticulous that it seemed unusual, the knight reported everything from the welcome procession, the location of all decorations, the route from the entrance of the castle to the dining area, down to the menu and ingredients.

It sounded like an irregular audit just by listening to the contents, Kyle's serious expression shows just how much importance was given to make this perfect.

'I knew you weren't on good terms with the royal family, and I even heard the servants talk about it while I was human... Just how serious is it?'

If you look at his expression now, you would think Kyle was fighting against demonic beasts.

"I should leave now."

Kyle glanced back at me. His eyes filled with lingering feelings.

I don't know if he just likes to hide his gentle feelings, or if he's only gentle to me. Or maybe he's only sweet towards animals, well there's no harm in it...

"Goodbye, Cashew Nut."

I held out my hand instead of answering. Give me one more dried pollack before you go.

"It's not good for you if you eat a lot, hmm?"

He whispered.

'... Okay...'

I decided to lie down on my back and just imagine the food I wanted to eat.

A hamburger with three patties, hot pot, shrimp meatballs, a T-bone steak bigger than my face, two pieces of pork belly on top of a lettuce. Herring sashimi during autumn, yellowtail sashimi in winter and for spring...

As I lay down and rolled around after finishing the rest of the dried pollack, an idea suddenly came to mind.

'Come to think of it, why did Kyle have a bad relationship with the royal family? Although it's not a loss on his side, he's still a son of the previous emperor, what could've happened?'

Indeed, there are stories that you can't hear without shedding tears. You're supposed to be a prince living luxuriously, yet right now, you're acting as a duke in this barren land.

Kyle Jane Minehardt was not a very important character in the original. Moreover, he died quickly, so his past story was not treated as important.

System, do you know what he wants to achieve?  If I can lend a hand, then maybe the future might change.

[ Kyle's only wish is revenge. ]

'He also wants revenge?'

There are so many dreamers of revenge here and there.

It's probably because of his origin that he opposes the royal family. His biological mother was not accepted as a royal family member and lead to her taking her life in misery.

But that didn't make Belial and Kyle's relationship bad from the beginning. Maybe as he grew up, he started to despise Kyle.

The North was in danger, even though no one was actively trying to crush it, still it was good to reduce the possibilities of this happening, hence Kyle's meticulousness.

But despite Kyle's efforts to maintain peace in the North, Belial succeeded in his plan and found an excuse for the imperial family to pressure the North.

Just in time, the system showed the current situation as it happened in the original.

[ "Kyle Jane Minehardt, decorated an assault under the guise of a festival. There was proof that the chandelier fell on top of the Second Prince, Belial Serena Minehardt, at the banquet on the last day of the festival! In response, the Duke of Klein labels Kyle as an enemy of the imperial family and declares that he will confront everyone under the Blake's estate." ]

'That's it, this chandelier incident!'

On the last day of the festival, Belial's accident led to declare his maternal family's hostility towards the Blake estate.

And if it really happened, there's a possibility that Serena and Belial would first meet here. Sen might've been appointed to treat Belial's injury and they might have found out they shared the same goal.

If Belial, and his maternal family, the Duke of Klein, join forces together to antagonize Kyle, the North will be more isolated than it is now. That probably was the major cause of Kyle's death.

So, we need to stop this situation from happening.

'Since the banquet will happen on the last day...'

​There's a simple way to stop it, whatever I need to do, I just need to delay Belial's appearance so he can't appear during the banquet.

'What should I do...'

Should I meet Belial, first? I need to figure out how he looks like. I also have to think about how to persuade him not to attend the banquet. If it doesn't work out, then just hit him at a weak point.

It was time to remove the sawdust stuck in my front paws after a long day of thinking.

"Why do you keep soldiers by the door?"

An unfamiliar voice sounded outside the study.

It was a soft and gentle voice that was close to a whisper. Soon the door opened, and Kyle brought the guest inside as he answered.

​"I told you I strengthened the security because of a small matter."

He used a tone often use here in the study, a tone that made my nerves feel taut. The man behind Kyle laughed quietly.

"It seems even the Grand Duke's study encounters such unexpected changes."

​Is he telling Kyle that he can't even manage one of his rooms? A cold smile appeared on Kyle's face for a second and then it quickly disappeared. I stepped out of my hiding place and climbed to the side of the wheel on the top floor to look at them. Then, I finally saw the man sitting across Kyle.

[ Belial Serena Minehardt. ]

As expected, it was Belial.

Golden hair that shone like honey, bright green eyes, a lively yet gentle appearance. His eyes pointing downwards making him look like a gentle sheep and a polite smile adorned his face...

If I were to manifest a prince from a fairytale, I think it would look exactly like him. What am I saying, of course it would look like him, he's a real prince.

"Other than that, I heard you started to raise a strange beast in your study?"

Ah. That strange beast would be me.

As I chewed on the walnut I brought up to the top floor, I saw Kyle's eyebrows twitch. H-hey! Don't react!

"It's a magical beast cub that I saved from the eastern forest, it's none of your business."

"I heard demonic beasts eat people when they grow up. It is very courageous of the Grand Duke to raise such a beast."

Belial smiled at Kyle with his eyes closed, while he (Kyle) just stared at him expressionless.

There seemed to be an invisible spark between the two. The festival is just starting, so why are you two like this already. Let's get along, okay?

"Do you have any other plans regarding that beast?"

*Belial kept hinting Kyle will use the hamster to kill people in the future...*

...Ahhhh! I really can't stop you two huh?

"You cannot take back words once spoken, Prince Belial."

"Shouldn't you begin by saying no, Grand Duke?"

It was an obvious provocation. And it was a bad one, as it insinuates Kyle would like to commit treason.

But look at me, could you not say those kinds of words. When I grow up, I'll attack the imperial city? Am I not the size of half a palm? I'm only getting angry because you're spouting nonsense.

But Kyle seemed to be in a different situation. The cold air felt like it froze. I looked at them, rubbing my arms with my front paws.

'Hey... Don't tell me.'

You're not pulling out the sword are you? Be tolerable, don't commit murder. Just hang in there. Breathe.

"Don't suddenly throw a punch Kyle. You'll look as vulgar as your mother."

Kyle's hand crawled to the sword.

No! Don't kill him! Of course, I think he's a crazy bastard that shouldn't be forgiven for swearing at your mother, but still! Killing is not...

I didn't have much time to think about what to do in the situation. I jumped from the top floor and my body rolled down the slide.  Thump. Clack. Thump.

At the sudden sound, both of them were stunned and turned to look at me. 

".... Cashew Nut?"

Kyle was shocked and approached me quickly, when I didn't answer he shouted at the knight guarding the door.

"Take the prince to his chamber and bring a doctor quickly!"

The knight responded to the orders urgently. Then there was a creak as the door opened and someone stepped into the study.

It was Sen, who came to bring me snacks.

"..... Your Highness?"

"Sen, please lead the prince to his chamber."

Kyle said as he pulled me out of the hamster house. Sen took a second to assess the situation, then nodded and walked out of the study with Belial.

The noisy study quickly became silent, and I could feel Kyle's anxious gaze on me.

​'It should be fine now, right?'

It was an acting masterpiece that will go down in history.

[ ó﹏ò ]

Why! What! Look at how everyone was deceived. If this is not a masterpiece, then what is?

I moved my body as if I had just woken up, and Kyle sighed in relief. He put me closer to his face and asked in a gentle voice if I was okay.

As expected, I like this side of him more than him pretending to be indifferent.

*earlier in the chap, Kyle was pretending to be indifferent towards Soohyun when a knight/attendant was reporting the festival preparations*

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[qiutls]

TNGDH 010

The first day of the Northern festival dawned.

It was noisy all over the place. I woke up early in the morning and sat up on the sawdust with uneven hair.

I'd love to sleep more, but I had a lot of work to do. First of all, it was necessary to increase the miracle value to further increase the duration time of "Summon."

I'm at a loss on how to fill up the remaining percent, but at least I know I can't fill them in this house filled with damn mealworms and crickets.

Yeah, let's go out.

It is also good to go out and grasp the atmosphere of the castle, and check what happens in < Heart of Winter > at this time. And if possible, I may change some of the events and slightly raise the miracle value.

I only have 30 minutes a day, I really need to use it well…

[ Should I use "Summon" now? (｡❛ᴗ❛｡) ]

'No!'

Not now, I don't have any clothes!

Ugh, but there's no better time to go out than now. It has only been 10 minutes since Kyle went to survey the castle for the festival. It would take an hour to complete one roundtrip.

If only there's other clothes available, except for the clothes the magicians picked up…

'Ah! That's right!'

Just then, a wonderful thought came to mind.

The space where Sen found me and chatted along with the other maids. It was the place where they do laundry. In other words, I can get the clothes that servants wore.

Let's just get one of out the pile. Even if it's a bit uncomfortable to know that someone has already worn it, it's way better than being naked.

You never know, I might be able to wear a sleek, and well-washed butler's uniform… Don't you think it'll look good on me?

I had a pleasant imagination in my own way before using "Summon" in the corner of the room.

[ Good luck! (ෆ`꒳´ෆ) ]

*

However, there was another problem that I've never anticipated.

"I've really lived…"

Originally, life was something you were supposed to know when you've actually lived once, but if you were going with this kind of development, you should at least give me a preview.

I sat with my legs spread out on the stone steps in the corner and put my elbows on my knees. And with an infinitely gloomy look on my face, I stared at the maid's uniform in amazement.

"….."

I should have expected, all the people gathered then were maids. There was no such thing as the butler's uniformed I imagined earlier. Shirts, vests, pants, and shoes are nowhere to be found.

The best I could find was an ankle-length black skirt and an ornamental white apron, and for now, it was the only clothes I could choose.

I screamed silently ruffling my hair with my hands, how can I walk around like this! What do you mean I have to wear maid clothes, I'm a man!

"What's the difference between this and running around naked!"

[ Do you want me to turn off "Summon"? ]

No, don't! That's not what I meant. On second thought, this is not that bad. It's warm and I can move freely, it's even a bit nice… Damn it.

"It's hard to make ends meet."

With this outfit, it's best not to be caught by maids. No, it's best not to be seen by anyone. Hey system, do you have any transparency skills? I'm going crazy here.

Even though I hated it, I had to move anyways. I only have half an hour a day, I need to make the most out of it. I shook myself and went downstairs.

"It would be nice if we could hold the banquet sooner."

"What kind of clothes will do you think His Highness will wear this time?"

"Do you think there'll be more people than last year?"

I tactfully intermingled with servants here and there and heard stories of this and that.

The Northern festival is held only once a year, and it lasts for a week starting from the day when the night is the longest that year. It was no exaggeration to say that it was the grandest even held at the Blake's estate.

The usually dull and cold Blake Castle was now animated and people kept bringing in food from the storage. You can see that the merchants also brought a full carriage. 'Indeed, a festival is a festival.'

The last memory of a festival I remember in my old life was drinking makgeolli at the university festival and suffering from a massive hangover the next day.

At that time, key information suddenly fell into my ears.

"I hope this year goes by without any problems…"

"That's what I'm saying, why am I so nervous? Last year, aristocrats who were in favor of the prince came and bothered me, but this time apparently, the prince himself will attend the banquet."

"Is the rumor really true?"

"Is the prince really coming personally here in the North?"

I crept up behind them with my ears perked up. Of course, I didn't forget to use the broom I got to pretend to sweep across the floor and move.

They went into the banquet hall, loaded with goods, and soon began to decorate the place with flowers and moved the tables around the central dance hall.

"I know right, when this land was a wasteland, he didn't care, even when his subjects asked for his help."

"But since Lord Kyle came, things have improved remarkably. Didn't they say, the reason why the prince never came even thought there was a festival here every year, is because of the bad relationship between brothers? Isn't that the famous story?"

"They sent him to die, but he didn't. Tsk. Tsk."

"Apparently, His Highness Belial will also come, along with the previous Serena, who's on bad terms with Duke Kyle. Their age difference is also…"

the one on bad terms with Kyle is Belial and not the previous Serena, which is a different Serena from Sen​

Oh yeah, this is the kind of gossip I want to hear.

'As expected, people who are preparing for the banquet, know the most.'

I should get closer to them, let's step around these servants who are contemplating what to do with the old chandelier, and try to hear more information…

"Woah! That scared me!"

Just in time, the worker who was complaining about the old and loose chandelier ring, turned around and our eyes met.

Wow, you have a really loud voice, thanks to you I was surprised and almost jumped.

"Wait a minute… I don't think I've seen you here before."

… Oh dear.

The skill "Summon" uses my original form and face. I don't know how the system brought my life's data into this world, because if I asked it would never shut up, but right now this person is seeing a face it has probably never seen before, a Korean's face.

In other words, it's a face that doesn't fit this world.

I turned around as naturally as possible and kept sweeping.

​Just be natural…

"Hey you!"

It felt like my joints were squeaking whenever I moved.

Indeed, I have zero talent for acting. During the school festival, I always played the role of a tree or a stone. Of course, I didn't want to play that role but for some reason, everyone left it up to me.

The man who looked at me suspiciously, tried to reach for me. But just before he reached my shoulder, I started to move.

I don't care about acting or anything, I just know if I get caught here, it's the end.

"Hey system, how many minutes are left for the skill?"

[ "Summon" will end in 7 minutes. ]

There's less than 10 minutes left.

I can just run until the skill ends.

"Isn't that, that guy?"

It's just your imagination. It can't be you'll know it's me from looking at the shoulders and the height right?

"I'm going crazy."

I only had those clothes to wear. What was I supposed to do in that situation, technically I'm a victim too.

"Wasn't it a few days ago, a guy sneaked into the Lord's study and event took his shirt?"

"Ho, is he that.."

"There, that brown haired guy, just stand there and don't move!"

Ah, I can't hear you. I can't hear anything.

I started fast, almost as if I were running. The soles of my feet felt so cold and numb, but I couldn't help it, there were only socks in the laundry room and no shoes.

'I feel so uncomfortable, I'll wash my hands and feet as soon as I get there.'

This time, after washing my feet, I'll turn the bowl over instead of leaving the dirty water inside, or else they won't change it to new water.

I left the banquet hall, climbed a floor, and fled frantically to the left corridor, it's been a long time since I threw away the broom I held.

'I should've worked out.'

I overestimated the physical strength of an office worker. But at least, I wasn't as weak as before since I rode a wheel desperately to become human.

Thump.

"… Ah!"

I bumped into someone as soon as I turned around the corner of the hallway. You're lucky I'm letting you off the hook today.

"Sorry-"

Obviously I was walking quite quickly but this person didn't even move a bit when we collided, yet I bounced back like a ball.

"Are you okay?"

His voice, low and grave, a voice I'm quite familiar with.

… That's right, it's a voice I hear everyday.

'I'm doomed.'

[ Kyle Jane Minehardt. The Great Duke of Blake. ]

I know. I know. You don't have to tell me.

I turned around and looked at him.

It hasn't even been seven minutes yet and it was weird to end the skill right in front of him. You said I'd be lucky enough to become human? Are you sure it's luck or bad luck?!

[ (◐▽◐);;; ]

'Fuck it.'

I started running away from Kyle and he started chasing me.

​His heavy boots banged on the floor and sounded loudly as he approached me. It was like a horror movie. I kept running like before, yet he was just walking. The distance between us gradually got less and less.

"Hey."

I don't know what to do. I'm never running away from him again. When I looked back secretly, his shadow was hanging around my feet.

'….. Crazy'

He's not the Duke of the North for no reason.

Now I really started to give my all into running. The ankle-long skirt started to get in the way, so I held them up with my hands to move my legs easily.

Ah, shit, I don't even have shoes. What kind of situation is this!

"Stop."

'I don't think I will.'

I gasped and tried to breathe in as much air as possible and squeezed out the last drop of my strength to ran further away. When Kyle saw I didn't listen to his orders, he also started following me quickly.

Why are his steps so big? If you're tall, you do everything bigger is that it? How can you make me feel this miserable?

Step. Step. Step.

The sound of bare feet running like crazy and the sound of boots irregularly stepping on the floor. I felt all the emotions I was bottling rise up as I continued to run on the cold floor.

Hey! Stop following me! It's time to give up.

[ "Summon" will end in 1 minute. ]

I shouldn't disappear suddenly today, and it should bring me back to the hamster house once the time is up…

he's talking about the hamster form

Before I knew it, Kyle was right behind me, at this rate, he'll catch up even before a minute passes.

I ran all the way here with the thought of being able to escape, but now it seems like I can't help it. But it seems like I have no choice but to wait for the skill to end and recall back to the hamster house.

Running straight down the corridor, I turned towards the stairs and went down the steps.

"Uh…"

​My body leaned forward greatly as I was about to fall when a large hard pulled my arm and causing me to sway back into the ground.

I turned around and saw the owner of the hand, I looked at Kyle with my eyes wide open. My heart was already falling down the stairs, yet my body was held in place with his hand.

"Who are you?"

I can't answer if you ask like that.

[ "Summon" will end in 10 seconds. ]

'It's almost time anyways.'

​You're right system, there's no such thing as bad luck.

I laughed and held onto Kyle's arm but still not straightening my tilted body. I wasn't intent on making a good impression. So, I spoke in a sarcastic tone.

Who am I? Me?

"I'm your companion-"

note that companion used here can mean a lot of things, can be friend, associate, partner or even lover, Soohyun was going to say "I'm your companionship hamster" but it got cut off XD

​Just then the 10 seconds was up and white light came out of my body. Kyle frowned at the blinding light that flashed before his eyes.

And the me that was covered in that light, became a hamster.

… Who was back in the hamster house.

―…….

I turned my head around and looked at the familiar sawdust and the transparent glass and the duke's study.

Hey, if you're gonna take me back! Take me back after I finished my words! How can you end it before I could say I was a companionship pet. A pet!

​I jumped in anger and threw myself on the floor. Great, now not only am I a clothes thief, I'm now a pervert who dresses as a woman and confessed to the Grand Duke.

― Squeak! [ Ahhh! ]

I think it's better to keep living as a hamster. Right? Right. Should I just live like this? That thought easily vanished as I saw the bowl full of mealworms.

Kyle's POV

The flash slowly died down and Kyle opened his eyes. His view was still blurred, perhaps because it was directly hit by the light earlier, but fortunately there was no difficulty in identifying the object in his hands.

The problem was, there was only clothes and the man who had just been in his hands was gone.

A unique face, and thin brown hair that have never appeared in this land. And such light weight, that he was able to hold the man with one hand.

All that disappeared in an instant and all that was left was the maid uniform that he was wearing.

"… Is he a magician?"

But when he disappeared, he didn't seem to chant any incantations. Rather, the last words he said before he disappeared was that he was my 'companion'.

Above all, I definitely saw him for the first time today, yet I felt a strange sense of familiarity. Even though no one I know has no hobby of dressing as a woman.

Kyle raised his eyebrows and picked up the clothes properly. Even when he said he was my companion, why did I just stay still and keep holding his arm.

"I'll find you…"

Even if what you said was just nonsense, I want to find you again.

T/N: this part of the novel is illustrated and made into a promo which you can find in the masterpage for this novel. tysm for everyone who's reading this! and thank you for all the likes, follow and ko-fis <3

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