The Villainess Lives Twice

The next day, Artizea woke up early in the morning.

The mayor's wife, who woke her up, said with regrets.

“It would be nice if you can settle for one more day and then leave tomorrow….”

“Because what happened to the stronghold is not a small issue. We can’t delay.”

Artizea said so.

It was better to go to the stronghold to settle things.

She slept warmly last night, but she can't get Cedric stuck that way all day long.

The heating facility of the official residence fell far short of the Grand Duchess’ room in the stronghold.

Artizea borrowed the mayor’s wife's clothes instead of her ruined clothes. She dedicated both of her only coats of fur to Artizea.

Artizea decided to give her a reward beyond that.

Cedric finished the preparations early and shared a meal with her.

He was back with a cool, usual face, whether all of his fatigue had been relieved by just having a good night's sleep, or thanks to the solution to the frustrating problem.

“Do you have anywhere uncomfortable?”

“There isn’t”

Artizea said, blushing her face a little. In fact, it wasn't without any at all.

“The road will be a little rough because maintenance is not possible due to the snow. The carriage wouldn’t work very well.”

“I think it's better to go back and rest. I'm worried about the stronghold.”

“Thank you for understanding.”

Cedric nodded his head.

“I had something I wanted to tell you.”

Artizea said so carefully. Cedric spoke ahead of her.

“If you're talking about the South Sea people, it's okay not to explain it. You're not someone who does things for no reason.”

“Not that. Last night… I wanted to tell you about what you said that trust is an illusion.”

“Tia.”

Cedric looked at her with wonder.

“I never thought that Lord Cedric's trust was built on an illusion.”

“Tia…..”

“I think betrayal can happen anywhere, but… nonetheless, the people of Evron Grand Duchy haven't really betrayed. It's just that they think differently about the way Cedric and Evron are.”

Artizea said earnestly.

She knew that Evron really didn't betray him. Rather, if the trust was broken because of her, betrayal could have really sparked.

“Everyone's thoughts are different. I know. I just realized it anew.”

Cedric said.

“Don't worry. I still believe in good intention and justice.”

He said so. Then he bowed his head and kissed Artizea.