CHANGING THE FUTURE

At first, I was confused. Did I go back to the past or is this the future? I became the Duke's daughter instead of being the daughter of the Grand Duke. However, I might prefer to be in this family. They gave me warmth that I didn't get to experience at the Grand Duke's manor. The Duke and the Duchess gave me freedom and I'm free to refuse or to do whatever I like.

While Carien and Cynthia are the most dependable and caring siblings I've ever known. Back then, the people in the manor treated me like I was nothing more than a tool of the Grand Duke.

I was content and didn't have anything to wish for. Until the Rosenblitz family decided to throw a party. Moreover, they invited Helvetica. The memories I kept for a long time started to flashback. That's when I realized I wasn't in the future... I'm not sure what I was feeling at that time. Perhaps I'm scared?

Because her death was entirely my fault. There was a time to run, but I was stoned in my position and I couldn't move. Knowing Helvetica, I knew she wouldn't attend as she had too many invitations on her hand.

Perhaps I'm also excited because I can get to see her for the second time.

Fortunately, the prideful princess came. It was a shock to me. All I wanted was to gain her trust all over again, so even though it was small luck, I tried to gain her attention. Make her trust me for the second time and make her choose me all over again. It was selfish of me, but I couldn't afford to lose her for the second time. With that, I tried not to act like a noble in front of her.

I don't want to be the stiff and numb Devourah I used to be. This time, I wanted to be myself. And by the time she chooses me as her fiancé, I got too excited to the extent that I bid my farewell to my family just to be with her once more.

Unlike back then, she smiles at me too often now. She doesn't make me anxious. It's as if she's changed into a new person. Maybe she was also like this back then. It was just me who kept on denying my feelings for her.

It was strange to run into myself at Luna's party. I wanted to ask her how she was doing. Or is my father abusing her? However, I received criticism from myself.

Am I that kind of person? As much as I know myself, I wouldn't step down on other people just because I wasn't chosen. And therefore, I know it wasn't me. However, I can't hide the fact that she's Helvetica's original fiancé. For the second time, I was terrified. The princess wasn't supposed to interact with the Duke's daughter because she had no value in her life in the past.

The Princess, who used to ignore the feelings of others, noticed my anxiousness and gave me the reassurance I didn't expect. That's when I asked myself, Why did I keep on pushing her away back then when she cared for me more than anyone?

That may be the reason why she picked that maid of hers. It was because Serina wouldn't deny her feelings for her master.

I'll make sure that this time it'll be different. But before that, I need to talk to Devourah and figure out how she met that man. The person I am now is vastly different from the person I used to be. Even though the Grand Duke abused me severely, I lacked the courage to confront him because the Emperor would always side with my father.

Devourah, on the other hand, has a scheming personality. It's as if I'm staring at someone else. "Aren't you tired? You can head back first. " I smile as I tap my seat.

"Shouldn't I be the one to ask you that?" Helvetica chuckles as she takes a seat beside me. I decided to dry her face with a handkerchief as she was covered in sweat. And the maid gave her a water bottle to quench her thirst.

"I haven't worked out in a long time. My sword is so heavy that I can't swing it properly. Besides, it's good exercise. You're the one who's been here for a long time, just watching us. " I didn't get to support her from her training back then, and the only person who kept taking care of her was Serina, and only Serina.

This time, it's my turn to make amends for my inconsistencies. In other words, I'll fulfill my duty as her fiancé. "You should be grateful that I supported you." I said as I tapped her face gently.

"As you should." I laughed as soon as she interrupted. "Your Highness, it's time to rest. Can I excuse myself for a while? " Vien drew our attention as she bowed.

"I was informed that you broke a promise. This day was supposed to be your date with my sister, isn't it? " Hel cracks a grin. It was her fault. She drags the General into this training when it's supposed to be a rest day for the knights. It's more like it was intentional given that she was aware of their plans.

"I already informed Lithia about it. She was pissed at me, but she was Lithia. The forgiving apple. You should get going. I'm going to train these knights in your position, but you owe me a request. "

"Thank you, Your Majesty." I couldn't help, but laugh as Vien sounded irritated, as if she was sick of Helvetica's personality. It seemed like the only thing that remained constant was the princess and the knight's relationship. Whether it's the past or the present, Lithia and Vien are still destined to be together.

I used to be envious of their previous relationship because it was flawless. I saw how Vien would always accompany Lithia to various events. The flowers seem to bloom whenever they talk in the garden. The part where they got married was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.

But the ending wasn't good enough. Vien died along with Helvetica. Lithia, on the other hand, was left alone. "Would you like to explore the Capital tomorrow?" I looked at her, tilting my head in confusion.

"We always spend time on those useless papers. Care to leave the palace for a while?" 

"But you're the Emperor. You are not supposed to leave—"

"My father will take care of everything. I needed to take a break. I'm not going to take no for an answer, so don't turn down the offer or there will be no next time." Look at this manipulation.

"You should've surprised me then," She laughs as she stands up, offering her hand to me. "I needed your consent. So Your Majesty, would you like to explore the Capital tomorrow? " Unlike in the past, I am content with our current relationship.

There's nothing sweeter than sugar when the Villainess treats you and asks for consent.

"I would love to." But this story isn't all about cupcakes and rainbows. The battle will take place at some point in the future. I can't let her die for the second time.

I'll make sure she stays alive.