VTGWH 522

I can only wait for Julie-sama to say something next.

In this silence, there is a sense of tension that even breathing is not permitted. I have no idea what she is thinking right now.

"Is your purpose to burn down the royal palace?"

I didn't feel any anger in that question. I was just asking a question. …It's about time she turned to me.

"...for the murder plan."

I didn't say "who." I thought that this word alone would make her interested in me, so I asked.

Silence fell again.

How many times would this situation make my heart feel like it was going to jump out of my chest? I stared at Julie-sama.

"Are you imitating someone?"

"Do you have any idea?"

I think to myself that I am able to provoke Julie-sama in this situation. But if I back down now, nothing will start.

I don't want to let this situation go to waste. I am standing here prepared to make all the sacrifices.

"The three Williams children are also involved, aren't they?"

I was honestly surprised that she could see through me to that extent.

Julie-sama spoke as if she knew I was trying to create a similar situation to Uncle Will.

She spoke in a mocking tone, but I didn't sense any sense of blaming me.

"I'm not a stupid woman blinded by power and luxury."

I realized once again that the impression people have of Julie-sama is different from what she really thinks.

That should be obvious, but I had an image of Julie Seeker that I had created in my own mind. Her true feelings, which can only be known in person, are always there, but I had only seen Julie-sama through my own imagination.

Someone must have told her that she was drowning in power and luxury.

"I just want to protect Luke. I'd give up my life for him."

"Is that why you took Uncle Will's eye and banished him to Roana Village?"

I could feel her shoulders twitching slightly. It was a small shock, but it made me take a gamble.

The best defense is a good offense.

"Yes, that's right."

That's a lie.

I somehow intuitively felt that way. Maybe she just wanted to believe it was a lie, but her words were very cold, but I felt that they weren't her true feelings.

"I'm not his mother, and I can't be. Besides, a boy who has lost his magic is not needed by the royal family. Even if the king forgives him, I won't. And I hate you too. I hate you so much that I want to get you out of my sight right now."

The old noble woman spoke slowly, calmly, and in a clear voice.

I knew that what she was saying was offensive to me, but I wasn't irritated.

"Why me?"

I asked the simplest question.

I don't understand why he dislikes me so much even though we've just met.

"There's no reason for me to like the girl who was loved by the person I hate the most."