There were little things that one grew up with in the family that it became normal in one’s eyes. 

Among those who came from nobility it was the ability to hide one’s thoughts and feelings, and utilize others to their own benefit.

The daughter of Baron Hugh was a far more excellent child, managing to appeal to both her father and mother.

It was because Benjamin didn’t fit in the standard of a typical nobleman that led to this, whereas Lily grew up allowing herself to be controlled by her parents and learning things along the way.

“Why not sit down and join us now for dinner, Kiana? You’ve been running and been all over the place now, dear.” Countess Lita said.

While the connections between Kiana Wizen and the Countess were not ‘officially’ made, it was something that most knew about due to how candid the Countess Lita was at times.

“Thank you so much for your kindness, Countess. However, I do not wish to…”

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The Viscountess was someone who liked social norms and the rules, but she also preferred the much more relaxed way in handling things and being direct.

Kiana Wizen was strong as far as Viscountess Blackshield knew from experience, hence why, the Viscountess didn’t know why the younger woman was hesitating.

“Alright, thank you for the invitation, Countess and Viscountess.” Kiana curtsied and joined the table. The last time that she recalled more vividly was when she was taking care of Lord Asher and the rest were a little less memorable.

The truth of the matter was that Kiana Wizen was detached. When Countess Lita asked for her to be taken to the Grantz Kingdom, a lot of events led up to it that made for the woman to become a bit of a shell.

Grateful for her position, and doing her best to maintain control and also prove herself worthy of her position, Kiana did the best that she could… but not enough.

It was never enough.

‘Back then, I should have grown a little closer to Asher instead of being distant from my own cousin. And now, here I thought that I knew him so well, instinctively, almost as if I know where he is at all times, but I got it wrong.’ Kiana thought as she sat down and smiled.

The effects of the Mark of Loyalty on Kiana were… pervasive. It allowed her to be much more open to the suggestions of the one who cast the Spell Matrix. It was not complete subordination, like the Mark of Obedience, but it allowed the loyalty to grow in her heart to the point that the thought of Asher being missing made her wish to run and search for him.

‘I know that he’s already a young man and is quite capable on his own, but somehow, I can’t help but feel the impulse and urge to always stay by his side. It is a compulsion that I do not mind, but it is Lord Asher who might be displeased with it.’ Kiana shifted in her seat and tried to return to her manners.

She learned and knew them well.

Well enough to be part of the nobility of ladies, if she actually desired so.

‘I… I’m at the age where it would seem necessary to be focused on settling down with someone to marry because I’m getting older and less desirable… but somehow, I do not feel like it. Lord Asher has given me hope of a future for the Inanis family, and that’s all I feel like I need and could want.’

Once upon a time, Kiana did also have some desires for herself, but when Lord Asher told her about his goals, dreams and ambitions to elevate the Inanis Family to soar above incredible heights, it made those other desires wane in the background.

They became much more duller, less important, secondary… until now, she didn’t quite so much give thought to it.

‘What did I dream before? I studied to become a fighter in order to protect myself. Ah. Right… my father was in the army. I planned on visiting him, but the work here is necessary.’

Kiana’s father sent her to the Inanis Family at the age of 5 years old so he could return to the army. It was a decision that was a little heartbreaking if one thought about it.

A father and daughter separated.

However, there was no sense of that in Kiana right now. There was some minor guilt, as she knew logically that a daughter ought to pay visits to her only surviving parent, but she had buried herself into work and found her control there.

Lucius simply ate his dinner and chitchatted with the rest of the people, not paying much mind to what Kiana was feeling since the Mark of Loyalty was already on her.

It meant that she was under his control and couldn’t do anything about it.

Once the evening came to an end, Lucius excused himself from the dining hall.

“I wish all of you a good evening.” Lucius bowed his head. “I think I will be retiring to bed early tonight, Mother, Father and honored guests.”

“See you tomorrow, Lord Asher!” Lily curtsied politely and wore a gentle smile on her face. Her thoughts were already running as they spoke, but it was because she needed to prioritize the Count and Countess who surely would retire for the night as well.

‘Is there any way I can make everyone stay here in the dining hall?’ Lily thought. ‘Benjamin wasn’t much of help and I need to talk them fast. Lord Asher will be taking us tomorrow to the city, so I need to get a definitive yes from everyone.’

Lucius and Lily’s eyes met at that moment. The man could read her intentions, and yet it was enough to make Lily blush and become demure.

Lily’s heart fluttered and she balled her hands into a fist. ‘Alright, I’ll work hard and surprise him tomorrow.’