kscans

Chapter 15 - Truth and Falsehood

"Why are you at this night party, Lady Sumika?" Sumika’s blue eyes sharpened.

"Because I received an invitation from the Royal Palace." Sumika produced an envelope. She unfolded the invitation and showed the text.

"—‘A night party will be held on the twelfth night of the month of clear winds. I long to see you, my beloved, and await you at the Royal Castle with the longing of a thousand nights in a single day.’

‘The beautiful Shirogane Gate will be opened for you, and the people will kneel before you, who are blessed by the Moon Goddess Kuna.’

‘In the Grand Hall, I wish to dance a love waltz with you in your splendid dress. Tagi Fulmia, Second Prince of Fulmia.’ …Mm."

Litt gave a single nod.

"An invitation of love. Well written."

"That’s impossible!" A shrill voice shook the Hall of Crests.

"Valona, calm yoursel—"

"How can I be calm, Father?! There’s no way Sumika received an invitation!"

"And why is that, Duchess’s Daughter Valona?" Litt asked. Valona answered without a moment’s hesitation.

"But of course! Because I—" Time seemed to stop.

The Hall of Crests fell silent. Everyone understood what she had been about to say. Valona, her face drained of color, could only tremble her lips in silence.

"—‘Because I intercepted the letter,’" Litt finished the line, perfectly mimicking Valona’s tone.

"To betray oneself by talking. I’m not fond of clichés, but that phrase seems made for you, doesn’t it, Lady Valona?"

"Silence!" A thunderous shout vibrated through the air.

"I-I am a Duchess’s Daughter! The fiancée… of His Highness Tagi!"

"Then you should have just held your head high with confidence, shouldn’t you? Instead of resorting to a cheap trick like swiping letters."

At Litt’s words, Viscount Scott flushed with anger.

"How cowardly! Is that how the great nobles do things?!" Despite the Viscount’s accusation, the seasoned Duke Philbard remained unfazed.

"A pity, everyone." The Duke let out a conspicuous sigh.

"Father…?"

"Calm yourself, Valona. Do not be deceived." Duke Philbard pointed at the letter in Sumika’s hand.

"That invitation is a forgery!"