章節 15: Daughter or Daughter-in-law?

The bright sun shone over the cloudless sky, casting its warm shine over Castle Silva. At the edge of the estate, in Acier's private villa, the sunlight filtered into her room through the expansive Victorian windows.

The room was silent, like crickets, not even a gentle breeze to rustle the curtains. Nozel like usual sat at his mother's bedside, his Silver Hair glowing bright, as he sat in the spotlight, cradling his baby sister, in his arms.

Despite the calm and pleasant scene, the boy's mind was anything but at ease.

"Where is he?" Nozel murmured softly, breaking the still silence, his voice was barely a whisper, but his tone was tinged with a mix of frustration and anxiety, highlighting his growing impatience.

His gaze flickered to his mother, just yesterday he felt like he walked in to see a miracle, with his mother up and about, talking to him, without any sign of sickness or frailty. However, that joy was short-lived, in large part due to his father's complete absence yesterday, returning her to a weak state. Not nearly as weak as before, mind you, but it was an unpleasant feeling for him to watch his mother return to a sickly state, after just showing signs of getting better.

Nozel knew he should be used to his father's absence, that man was barely a stranger in his life, yet for some reason he let himself believe that seeing him two days in a row, was a sign of change. A new normal. Where a child would see his father every day, a father trying to be part of his children's lives, a husband being there for his wife.

It wasn't asking for much, but it seemed just like always Sebastian Silva, had let him down. Nozel couldn't help but feel a bit betrayed.

Acier sitting up on her bed, turned her tired eyes, to her son, despite her clear exhaustion she held Nozel's gaze, and demanded his attention.

"Your father left two nights ago," Acier said softly, her voice calm but weak. "He mentioned something about needing to go to Hage... it's a fair distance from here. He seemed in a rush." She paused for a moment, her eyes clouding with thought. "Don't be surprised if he's late getting back."

Nozel's lips pressed into a thin line. "It's almost ten," he replied tersely, shifting Noelle in his arms as his irritation grew. "We don't have time for him to be gallivanting across the countryside. The appointment is soon, and the Agrippas and Fausts will be here any moment."

He stood up, the tension in his shoulders visible as he paced by the side of the bed. "Father has to return and set up the barrier. We can't risk being exposed, especially not with everything that's going on." His voice took on a sharper edge as he turned to face his mother. "I don't care what reason he has. You should be his first priority, Mother."

Acier watched her eldest son, spiral into a mess of anxiety, she furrowed her brows, and opened her mouth to speak in an effort to calm him. "Nozel…" she began, but he cut her off.

"I didn't dare to let the Fausts in yesterday, without his presence. With Mereoleona, out and about, we have no protection if Draven and his wife dare to do something. Although father is no warrior, the Fausts at least take him seriously, and won't try anything stupid in front of him."

Whereas they utterly disregard me. Nozel tightened his hold on Noelle, before continuing.

"His absence caused us to miss both appointments yesterday. Forget treating your 'situation', you couldn't even get your daily healing session," Nozel snapped, his eyes narrowing. "We can't afford to keep waiting on him. He has to get here now."

Acier sighed, her chest rising and falling with the slow, deliberate breath of someone who has experienced the vicissitudes of life. "I don't know why he left so suddenly, Nozel," she admitted, her voice softer now, almost resigned. "But I'm confident it has something to do with... us."

Nozel stopped pacing, and turned to her, his brows knitting together, trying to understand where this blind faith comes from. He then paused, recalling the scene two days ago, where Father sent Alfred away to see some task 2, to address an issue Draven brought up.

Just like his father, the head butler has also been behaving quite uncharacteristically these past few days. Nozel is no noisy person, although nobles love to spread rumors and gossip, he knows from his etiquette lessons that such actions are unbecoming of royalty. However, Nozel can't help his curiosity, when it comes to the life of one of his most precious people.

He exhaled sharply through his nose, thinking back to the past few days. "Alfred's been acting strange," he muttered, half to himself. "I overheard some of the staff talking. Apparently, he left the estate a few minutes after returning last night. He's been running around like a madman for days now. Barely spends any time here anymore, and Jeeves has been handling everything in his place."[1]

Acier's eyes widened slightly at this, but she said nothing, allowing Nozel to continue his tirade.

"No one dares ask Alfred what he's up to. Not even the staff." Nozel's tone turned bitter. "Only Father or you have the authority to question him, and now the entire household is growing suspicious." He paused, recalling another detail. "Jeeves put a lockdown on rumors, and threatened everyone's jobs if they let a word slip outside the estate."

Acier chuckled softly, though it was laced with exhaustion. "Jeeves is very reliable, he's Alfred's assistant, and future successor for a reason. You don't have to worry of word getting out with him on the watch."

"It worked," Nozel admitted with a short nod. "Everyone's kept quiet, but it's not enough. Even I tried asking Jeeves if he knew what was going on, and he denied knowing anything. He didn't seem like he was outright lying… but his face... it was too calm. He's hiding something. They are hiding something."

Nozel returned to his, seat, with Noelle placed securely in his lap. He ran a hand through his silver hair in frustration. Growing tired of being left in the dark, despite being one of the main parties involved in this whole mess. You would think if there was anyone his father would confide in it would be him and his mother, but it appears that man finds the butlers more trustworthy than his family.

"It's like Father and Alfred are playing some secret game with one another, refusing to let anyone else join in. The last I recalled, Alfred wasn't so fond of Father, his loyalty was to you, and you alone, so why has he not told you?!" Nozel's question was more a demand, he was close to losing it but held himself back to not startle Noelle.

"Because I never asked."

Nozel snapped his head up and studied his mother in bewilderment. "You…never asked?" He reiterated those words in utter disbelief, finding them ludicrous.

But his mother's light nod was all he got in return, a clear sign that he hadn't misheard.

Without waiting for his response, Acier locked her son's gaze with hers once more. "As you said before, as the matriarch of House Silva, it is in my right to question Alfred, and he wouldn't hold the truth back from me."

"So… why haven't you?" Nozel had to restrain himself from spitting out those words, the one person he'll never treat with disrespect in this life is his mother.

"Because I trust your father." Acier shrugged and said those words, casually, like it was the most normal thing in the world. "If he wanted me or you to know, he would've just been forthright about it. It's clear he wants to handle this himself and keep it in between him and Alfred, so we should respect that."

"Why… mother?" Nozel needed an answer, any answer. Where does this blind faith come from woman?! Nozel was tempted to drag in some mages from House Francois and have them poke around his mother's memory to see if his father had cast some hypnosis spell or something on her.

You would think his mother would learn from 16 years of a failed marriage to at least raise her guard and be more skeptical of the man. But these past few days she's been acting utterly bewitched by his father, following his lead without the slightest hint of hesitance.

His mother gave him a soft smile, that shone bright over her sickly visage. "Your father is no magic knight Nozel, he's an aristocrat a politician?"

And what does that have to do with anything? Politicians are the least trustworthy people of them all!

As if reading her son's thoughts her smile grew fonder, and she let out a sly chuckle. "It's because of that he's much more equipped to handle back door deals, and keeping things on the down-low. Whatever he and Alfred are doing, it's very sensitive, and the easiest way for their actions to be exposed is by expanding the social circle."

Taking a slight pause, to catch her breath, Acier continued. "Have you forgotten that your father is the Patriarch of Hose Silva, the head of a royal family? And Alfred the head butler, which makes his status above most nobles, even many royals have to show him respect. The two of them rarely dirty their hands, always ordering someone to do things for them. If they are running around the Kingdom to complete a task themselves, it's very important."

"Not telling us what they're doing is also a way to protect us. So just trust your father Nozel. He cares for us in his own way. Whatever he's doing, it's for our sake," she finished softly.

Nozel just let out a sigh of resignation, ever since his father had shown up three days ago, it felt like a gap opened up in his relationship with his mother. Whatever tacit understanding they had for each other, seemed to go down the drain whenever it came to his father. Nozel has really struggled to try to get back on the same wavelength as Acier.

Sometimes, he wonders if they're even talking about the same man. Honestly, what has his father done to inspire so much trust from his mother?

Noelle began to stir lightly in Nozel's arms, her small body wriggling as her eyelids fluttered. Nozel, distracted from his growing frustration, looked down at his baby sister and smiled fondly. It was a rare softness, one reserved only for moments like this, when the burdens of the world could momentarily fade. He gently adjusted her, the warmth of her tiny form grounding him in the present.

Acier, noticing her youngest child waking, reached out with arms that trembled faintly but were much steadier than they had been in days. "Let me hold her, Nozel," she whispered, her voice barely audible but filled with yearning.

With careful precision, Nozel slowly transferred Noelle into his mother's embrace. He watched as Acier cradled her, her fingers brushing gently over Noelle's rosy cheeks. Despite her weakness, Acier smiled, a tender, almost ethereal smile, and began to coo softly at the baby, eliciting soft giggles from Noelle. Just two days ago, she hadn't been strong enough to hold even a spoon, but now, here she was, rocking her daughter, her strength seemingly returning, if only for this fleeting moment.

Nozel's chest tightened with conflicting emotions as he observed them. His heart ached with warmth at the sight of his mother and sister, but his mind was still tangled in knots over his father's absence. Even if Sebastian was keeping secrets, even if Nozel despised him for all the years of neglect, if he could somehow make moments like this possible, allowing his mother to feel this brief happiness, then perhaps—just perhaps—Nozel could forgive him. Maybe not entirely, but enough to let go of the bitter resentment that had built up over the past sixteen years.

The peaceful scene was interrupted by a knock at the door. Nozel immediately stiffened, his body tensing as his eyes darted toward the entrance. Acier, too, went rigid, her arms instinctively tightening around Noelle. She was just about to hand Noelle back to Nozel and slip back into the facade of frailty she maintained for the household when a familiar voice called out from behind the door.

"It's me. May I come in?"

Relief washed over both Nozel and Acier. The tension melted from their bodies, and Acier remained cradling Noelle. It was Sebastian. They exchanged a glance, knowing it was safe, though Acier couldn't respond verbally—her illness was supposed to be too severe for her to speak much, and any nearby maids or butlers might overhear. Nozel took a deep breath and answered instead.

"Enter."

The door opened slowly, and Sebastian slipped inside, moving with regal poise and grace like he was the rightful heir of House Silva. Whereas Acier's usual softness and laid-back attitude would confuse those who don't know better, and think she was the one who married in. He closed the door behind him carefully, his eyes sweeping over the scene with a moment of fondness as he took in the sight of Noelle nestled in Acier's arms.

"My apologies for my tardiness," Sebastian said, his voice low but sincere. "And for my absence yesterday."

Acier smiled at her husband, her eyes softening despite everything. "It's fine," she whispered, her voice barely above a breath. She paused for a moment before adding, "Did you… find what you were looking for?"

Sebastian's expression shifted into a quiet smile, the corners of his lips lifting ever so slightly. "I did," he replied softly, his eyes meeting hers. "I found her."

Her? Nozel and Acier exchanged bewildered glances, this whole time they thought Sebastian was searching for something, not someone.

Without warning, a cloud of swirling colors—pink, lavender, and shimmering hues—materialized beside Sebastian. The air seemed to ripple, and from the vortex, a small figure was spat out onto the floor. Nozel's eyes widened in shock.

A young girl—perhaps fifteen, with a petite frame and an impish expression—now stood before them. She had tousled purple hair, a cheeky smile, and an air of mischief about her.

Nozel abruptly shot to his feet, his royal composure cracking as he demanded, "Who is this? What is the meaning of this intrusion?" His voice was sharp, his tone laced with authority and confusion.

Acier, equally stunned by the sudden appearance of the girl, frowned at her son's outburst. Despite her own shock, she couldn't abide Nozel shouting in front of a child, no matter how unexpected the situation was. She glanced down at Noelle, whose face scrunched up in distress at the sudden loud noise. Noelle's lip quivered, and within seconds, she let out a wail, her tiny voice piercing the room.

Acier immediately began rocking Noelle gently, shushing her softly as she tried to soothe her back to sleep. Nozel, feeling the weight of his guilt, glanced at his sister with regret. He lowered his gaze and clenched his fists, then turned back to the girl, his tone calmer, though his face remained composed with regal indifference.

"I apologize for my... tone," Nozel said, his words clipped but respectful. "Whoever you are, it was not my intention to frighten you."

The girl simply smirked, unfazed by the situation, and flashed a playful peace sign. "No biggie," she said with a lighthearted shrug, as though it was all a casual misunderstanding.

Nozel blinked, momentarily thrown off by her carefree attitude. Acier, though still recovering from the shock, couldn't help but feel a strange sense of relief at the girl's nonchalance. It was almost refreshing, in a way.

Sebastian, however, didn't fall for Dorothy's chipper attitude. He knew her well enough to know when it was genuine and when it was a facade. And the way her legs lightly trembled and shook, and he spotted tiny beads of sweat running down her neck, he knew it was the latter.

Dorothy was trying to hide her internal nervousness about meeting her new family with a playful persona, like nothing in the world could phase her. That way if she was rejected, she could deceive herself and convince herself, that she didn't really care, that it didn't bother her. To fool others, one must first fool oneself.

Nozel's eyes narrowed. "What exactly is going on, Father?"

Before Sebastian could answer, Dorothy, in her usual lively manner, twirled on her heel and pointed to herself with a grin. "Let's just say I'm here to help! And trust me, you're going to need it."

Sebastian moved behind Dorothy, his imposing figure standing tall above the petite girl, his hands resting on her small shoulders with a gentle but firm grip. "This," he began, his voice calm and steady, "is Dorothy Unsworth."

Nozel and Acier remained silent, their eyes fixed on Sebastian as they waited for him to continue. It was clear he had more to say, something more significant than just an introduction. Acier's brow furrowed slightly in curiosity, while Nozel crossed his arms, his expression growing more serious by the second.

Sebastian took a breath and continued. "Starting today, she will be a constant presence in Castle Silva." He glanced between his wife and son before adding, "You can be casual and comfortable with her. She already knows about our situation."

Nozel's frown deepened immediately, his silver brows drawing together in disbelief. "You told her? You told a stranger about our greatest weakness?" His voice was low but brimming with anger, barely restrained.

Sebastian didn't flinch at his son's reaction, though he expected it. "I told her," he confirmed, meeting Nozel's piercing gaze. "Because her power is absolutely indispensable to heal both you and your mother."

Contrary to her son, Acier remained completely composed, as she narrowed her eyes on Dorothy, studying the girl more closely. Lavender eyes lavender eyes, as Acier eventually focused on the hat sitting atop Dorothy's head. A witch hat. Acier recalled the unconventional manner in which the girl popped into the room and came up with a guess.

She's from the Witch's Forest. Acier immediately devised Dorothy's origins, because only in the Witch's forest will you find such esoteric magic from those outside nobility, and it was clear based on the girl's clothes she was no noble. Moreover, it was only the unconventional that could help them deal with something as strange as devils.

Nozel, however, wasn't as easily convinced. His skepticism was written all over his face as he stared at Dorothy. "How can a child possibly help us?" His voice dripped with doubt. "When it comes to a supreme devil, I fail to see how she—" he gestured toward Dorothy, "—could be of any use."

Nozel worded his accusation carefully, cautious not to say anything that could directly point to Megicula, keeping his words vaguer, to prevent triggering his curse.

Sebastian's grip on Dorothy's shoulders tightened slightly as if to both reassure her and emphasize his point. "Dorothy's magic is no ordinary magic, Nozel," he explained, his tone patient but firm. "She can access a separate dimension, far beyond the reach of she-who-should-not-be-named. With her help, we can finally begin the treatment for both you and your mother—safely. With her none the wiser"

Nozel gawked and studied her more closely, she was obviously not nobility by her clothing and attitude, so was she a commoner or a peasant? No only nobility could pull off something like that. Nozel immediately equated her to a child from a fallen house or a love child of House Vaude.

Ledior Vaude didn't hesitate to remarry after his previous wife passed away, it wasn't inconceivable for such a man to have some additional affairs.

Well, if she's nobility it's understandable. Nozel's skepticism slipped, and he let his recognition show. Very well I'll show you some courtesy and give you the benefit of the doubt.

Dorothy, noticing the shift in Nozel's expression, smirked and folded her arms across her chest with smug confidence, clearly enjoying her moment of recognition. Perhaps if she knew Nozel's line of reasoning she wouldn't be as satisfied.

Seeing his son's skepticism fade, Sebastian added, "If you're still concerned, rest assured. Our secret is safe with Dorothy. She's one of our own now."

Acier blinked in confusion. "One of our own?" she asked, her voice laced with curiosity and suspicion.

Sebastian smiled faintly. "Yes," he said. "Starting today, Dorothy is officially a member of the Silver Eagles."

As if on cue, Dorothy snapped her fingers, and the air around her shimmered once again. The dream-like cloud of pinks, purples, and blues appeared beside her, swirling with playful energy before spitting out a neatly folded squad robe—the signature uniform of the Silver Eagles. Dorothy grinned and quickly donned the robe, giving it a dramatic swirl as she adjusted it over her shoulders. She looked up at Nozel with a playful smirk, clearly enjoying her little display of magic.

Nozel quickly tried to analyze her magic. Father mentioned a separate dimension, so it makes sense she can store things inside there. I wonder how big that space is?

Acier, however, wasn't fully convinced. "Being a member of the Silver Eagles is not reason enough for us to trust her completely," she said gently, her tone apologetic. She glanced at Dorothy, who didn't seem offended by the remark, though her cheerful demeanor wavered for a moment. Instead, Dorothy began to fidget awkwardly, shifting her weight from one foot to the other, clearly uncomfortable.

Both Acier and Nozel noticed the change in the girl's attitude, and they exchanged puzzled glances as Dorothy looked over her shoulder at Sebastian, silently asking for some kind of reassurance.

Sebastian coughed awkwardly, clearing his throat as he stepped forward, still gripping Dorothy's shoulders. "There are... two bigger reasons why you can trust her," he said, trying to sound casual, though his voice betrayed a hint of nervousness.

Acier raised an eyebrow, her tone turning dry. "And what are these 'two bigger reasons,' Sebastian?"

Forcing a smile, Sebastian spoke nonchalantly, "Well... starting yesterday, Dorothy has officially become our daughter... and Nozel's fiancée."

An awkward, deafening silence fell over the room.

Nozel stared at his father, his face frozen in a mixture of shock and disbelief. Acier blinked, clearly too stunned to react. Even Dorothy, who had been brimming with confidence moments ago, now stood with wide eyes, her face reddening as she nervously glanced between the family members.

The silence stretched on for what felt like an eternity, until finally, Dorothy broke it with an awkward laugh. "Heh... surprise?" she said, giving an exaggerated shrug.

Nozel slowly turned to face his father, his eyes narrowed in a deadly calm manner. "Apologizes Father, it seems I misheard you. It appears that run-in with that sound mage on my last mission damaged my ears more than I realized. Care to repeat that?"

Acier blinked, and her grip around Noelle loosened. It was fortunate that she was on her bed, her hold already low, so Noelle merely plopped into her lap.

The baby began to giggle and cry for her mother to do it again, obviously confusing this as some new kind of play.

Before anyone could say anything, Sebastian quickly added, "And, um, though the second part—about the fiancée thing—is still up for debate... I already added Dorothy to the family registry." He gave a nervous chuckle, clearly trying to diffuse the tension. "So, well... there's no takebacks on her parentage."

Nozel face turned crimson red, not of embarrassment but of sheer fury. How dare he?! How dare this leech, this parasite, pop back into their lives without a care for the world, and decide something so momentous for this family as if it was his right?!

Nozel was about to explode. Screw the decorum, the etiquette, the expectations, this man needs to learn his place! But just as he was about to unleash his outrage, someone beat him to the punch.

"Sebastian Theodoros Silva." The dull tone, utterly foreign to that beautiful voice, caused Nozel to be still. And then after a short pause, he smiled, feeling all his tension leave him. Oh, this is going to be good.

Sebastian flinched as if struck, feeling a chill run down his spine. He swallowed hard, trying to keep up his unphased bravado. "Yes?" he forced himself not to stammer out those words, knowing full well that tone—the tone that meant trouble.

Acier didn't respond to his question. Instead, she handed Noelle back to Nozel, her movements calm but deliberate. She then turned her gaze toward her son, her expression softening slightly, though there was still an undeniable firmness behind her eyes. "Nozel," she said gently, "please wait outside."

Nozel blinked. Nozel wanted to watch. Nozel wanted to argue. But his mother's smile which clearly wasn't a smile, made him quite obedient. Without a word, he cradled Noelle carefully in his arms and made his way to the door, giving a sideways glance towards Sebastian before stepping out.

Acier's gaze then fell upon Dorothy, who was standing awkwardly by Sebastian's side. She fidgeted under Acier's gaze, looking at her with wide, uncertain eyes. Her previous confidence melted away, leaving that vulnerable girl.

Acier felt her heart soften as she watched the girl, and called to her. "Dorothy", her voice was commanding yet gentle. "Could you please wait outside as well? I need to speak with your… father."

The way she enunciated "father", lacked any sort of visible affection. Rather it seemed more like a curse than a title, rotting with venom.

Dorothy glanced nervously up at Sebastian, who gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "It's alright," he said gently, though his own voice wavered slightly. "Nozel's outside. Play nice, okay?"

Dorothy gave a shaky nod, before spotting Acier looking at her gently and reassuringly, for some strange reason she felt this conversation wouldn't go in the direction she feared most. She already felt her confidence returning as followed Nozel out the door.

As the door shut closed, leaving Sebastian alone with Acier, Sebastian was left unsure. He avoided looking at Acier who continued to smile at him eerily. He had tried to return a smile of his own, but it always faltered before he could muster one. He could tell Acier was not the least bit pleased, and doing so would be like pouring salt on her wound. Insulting her on top of screwing her over, after she gave me her unconditional trust.

Damn, I really overstepped this time, didn't I? Sebastian understood his mistake, but he never regretted it. So, he just waited in silence, for her to let all her anger out. 16 years of bottled-up frustration and hurt, from being constantly tricked, deceived, manipulated, and played with.

But it never came.

Rather than explode in anger or frustration, Acier let out a deep sigh, her tension slipping away as she slowly sat up on the edge of the bed, her legs dangling over the side. She patted the empty spot next to her with a resigned expression.

Sebastian blinked, clearly puzzled by her reaction. He hesitated for a moment but eventually moved toward the bed, leaving a decent space between them as he sat down. His brow furrowed in confusion, unsure of what to expect.

Acier let out a soft, wry chuckle and, without looking at him, said, "Come closer, Sebastian. I'm not going to eat you."

He scratched his cheek awkwardly, before shifting over until they were sitting side by side. Expecting at least a slap on the face, or a heavy conversation, he was not the least bit prepared for what came next.

Honestly, he wouldn't be surprised whatsoever if she demanded a divorce then and there, but rather all she did was slowly raise her right hand before… resting it gently on his left thigh.

Sebastian gawked at her, completely thrown off by the unexpected touch. His heart skipped a beat as he turned to look at her, but Acier's gaze remained fixed on the wall ahead. She sighed again, her other hand rubbing her forehead in clear resignation, before finally speaking.

"Tell me you didn't adopt a child and give away our son's hand in marriage just to cure me and Nozel," she said, her voice tired but calm.

Sebastian stared at her in disbelief, his lips parting slightly. "Is that… what you were worried about?" he asked, his voice soft with surprise.

Acier shrugged. "What else could it be?" she asked, her tone carrying the weight of the situation. "It's too cruel to that girl, Sebastian. You can't just casually give someone a family like it's some kind of cheap transaction."

Sebastian shook his head, his expression firm. "It's not casual at all," he promised, the weight of his sincerity apparent. "I already see Dorothy as my daughter. I will love and care for her, no matter what."

Acier studied him quietly, her eyes softening at his words. She could see the resolve in his face. He wasn't doing this lightly.

"She's a good person," Sebastian continued, "and she would've helped regardless of anything. But after hearing her story… I couldn't leave her alone. I wanted to be a father to her."

Acier gave a small nod, understanding but still conflicted. She sighed, not pressing further. "I already told you, Sebastian," she said quietly, "I trust your judgment. No matter what you do in the future. But please when it's something as outlandish as this, the least you can do is give me a heads-up. A call ahead so I can at least prepare myself and have time to gather my thoughts and feelings. " Her voice was gentle, filled with trust, but also a wry sense of exasperation.

Sebastian felt a warmth stir in his chest. He placed his hand over hers, squeezing it gently. "After the appointment, I'll tell you the whole story, I promise," he said softly. "You deserve to know."

Acier nodded in acknowledgment. She didn't need all the details right now, but she appreciated the offer. However, Sebastian's next words made her blink in surprise.

"I'm the one who adopted Dorothy," Sebastian said, his brow furrowing slightly. "It has nothing to do with you if you don't want to accept it. When the time comes to announce her to the world, I'll just say she's an illegitimate daughter from an affair I had with some witch. That way—"

Before he could finish, Acier, her face suddenly a mix of irritation and amusement, reached up and pinched both of his cheeks, pulling them hard. "Don't be stupid, Sebastian," she scolded him with a slight pout. "We're husband and wife. Naturally, we have the same children."

Inwardly Acier was quite surprised that Sebastian was willing to go as far as to have his reputation smeared just to be considerate of her feelings and raise Dorothy.

Sebastian already faced a lot of stigma in his life for being the patriarch of a lineage of Magic Knights, without being one himself. All he had going from it was his career as a cold-hearted politician, that would cow anyone who'd dare to insult him.

However, if this got out, he would not only be a failed Mage but also a failed politician. Nobility having affairs and illegitimate children is a different thing than being exposed for having them. If Sebastian admitted this his, political career would go up in flames and he would lose all the decade's worth of power, he struggled to build for himself in the royal palace.

All the power he held over the Kingdom and the sway his words held in the courts would be lost. Many people especially House Kira were stalking House Silva like a wolf already waiting for her demise, if its Patriarch had a scandal now, well let's just say the future for House Silva would look bleak.

Branch families demanding his removal as family head, and power struggles to usurp succession from the main family, would be the least of their worries.

Sebastian winced under the playful but firm pressure of her fingers; his eyes wide with surprise. "Ouch, okay, okay!" he muttered, half-laughing through the pain.

She let go of his cheeks, her expression softening into something more thoughtful. "I'll admit, it'll be strange… an adjustment," she admitted, looking away from him as if embarrassed to continue. "But… I find the little girl quite adorable."

Her words hung in the air for a moment before she looked back at him, her eyes still holding that playful edge. "You promised her a family, didn't you? Not just a father. If that's the case, Dorothy's going to need a mother too."

Sebastian's heart warmed at her words, a smile spreading across his face. He squeezed her hand tighter, realizing now more than ever just how much Acier meant to him. This is where Noelle gets her tsundere personality, he thought inwardly, chuckling softly.

But Acier's expression soon changed. The playful pout vanished, replaced by a dark, serious gaze. "Parenthood is one thing, Sebastian," she said firmly, "but stepping into our children's love lives is another. No matter how much I may come to adore Dorothy in the future, I will never accept one of our children marrying unwillingly, and certainly not having their partner decided for them."

Sebastian raised his hands in placation, nodding quickly. "I swear," he promised, "I'll only marry Nozel to Dorothy if they genuinely develop feelings for each other. Until then, they'll just be fiancées, and she'll be the nominal daughter-in-law of the Silva family."

After a slight pause, he added. "If it looks like it's not meant to be, I'll immediately break the engagement and fully adopt Dorothy into the family as our child. Giving her the Silva name."

Acier's eyes studied him closely, searching for any hint of deception. After a moment, she nodded slowly. "Alright," she said, her voice calm but still serious.

After a brief silence, Acier tilted her head, asking dryly, "And how do you plan to explain all this to Nebra and Solid?"

Sebastian groaned, rubbing his forehead in frustration. "I'll… figure something out," he mumbled, clearly dreading that conversation.

Realizing the time, he reluctantly stood up and made his way to the door. "It's 10:00 now," he said, taking a deep breath. "I'll let them back in."

As he opened the door, Sebastian felt satisfied, although they had their issues, it seemed like family was finally starting to form.

A Few Moments Ago:

As Nozel stepped outside into the hallway, he spotted Dorothy doing the same. The short girl closed the door softly behind her. He studied her closely disbelieving, that she of all people was his fiancée.

Nozel Silva was not one to chase romantic relationships, but he was confident if he ever had daydreamed of a woman in his life, he wouldn't have envisioned her face.

"So," Nozel said rhetorically, "you're my fiancée huh?"

Dorothy nodded absentmindedly, not even sparing him a look, as she walked towards him. Her attention was fully on Noelle, who was squirming slightly in Nozel's arms. Without hesitation, Dorothy bent down, gently pinching the baby's plump cheek. Noelle giggled, her soft coos filling the hallway as she responded with unreserved delight to Dorothy's attention.

Nozel blinked in surprise, feeling a sudden, inexplicable surge of jealousy rise in his chest. Why does Noelle react to her like that? The sight of Dorothy effortlessly coaxing laughter from his baby sister while completely ignoring him left him feeling both embarrassed and irrationally annoyed.

It's the same with Father. How can these strangers bring utter delight to Noelle so casually, while he despite being by her side since day one, had to wait months before she was even comfortable enough to snuggle in his arms? Even now, she rarely giggles for him.

What is he doing wrong? Traitor. Nozel instinctively thought looking down on his baby sister. Nozel never considered that if he could be bothered to so much as show her a smile and play with her, he could get the same reaction out of her.

His expression hardened, and without thinking, he took a large step backward, widening the gap between them. Noelle, sensing the sudden distance, immediately began to fuss, her tiny face scrunching up in displeasure as she prepared to wail.

Before the baby could even get out a proper cry, Nozel quickly popped a pacifier into her mouth, silencing her. Her little hands instinctively grabbed onto his sleeve, and she settled back down with a contented hum. Nozel exhaled in relief, only to feel Dorothy's eyes on him.

Dorothy, having straightened up, sighed dramatically, her gaze moving lazily from Noelle to Nozel. She muttered aloud, her tone half-amused, "Is this what Dad meant by him being a Siscon?"

Nozel's jaw dropped, his eyes wide with shock. The fact that she had casually referred to his father as "Dad" left him reeling. He demanded, "Siscon? What does that even mean?"

Dorothy shrugged as if his outburst was of no concern. "Don't worry about it," she said dismissively, turning away from him and leaning against the wall as if the conversation was pointless.

Nozel was growing very tired of being utterly disregarded by everyone he met. Be it that damn Vanica Zogratis, Draven Faust, or his father, but at least the three of them are people of strength and status.

This girl is a nobody! How dare she?!

As Dorothy stood there, her back against the wall, her posture casual, Nozel could only clench his jaw in frustration. He wasn't used to being brushed off so easily, and certainly not by someone who had just been thrust into his life in such an unexpected and overwhelming way.

If you're my fiancée, is it so much to ask for a proper conversation?!

Nozel stood in the hallway, trying to keep his frustration in check. He could feel the anger bubbling up, threatening to spill over, but he knew causing a scene now would only attract attention. So, with a resigned sigh, he mirrored Dorothy's casual stance, leaning against the wall opposite her. His gaze rested on her face, outwardly indifferent, though his thoughts ran much deeper.

She's a bit cute, he admitted, his mind momentarily distracted from his mountain of frustrations. Marrying her wouldn't be the worst thing. Sure, her attitude could use some refinement, but that was something etiquette classes could easily fix. After all, she wasn't a noble, and once she learned the ways of high society, she'd adapt.

Besides she seems to have powerful magic, so she'd be worthy of being House Silva's future Matriarch.

But more than anything, Nozel's thoughts centered on his mother. Dorothy was the key to saving Acier, and the surest way to guarantee her cooperation was to tie her to the Silva family, permanently. If Dorothy became a true member of the family, if Acier became her mother as well, she would have no choice but to use her magic to its fullest to help.

Clearing his throat, Nozel straightened up slightly. "Ahem."

Dorothy, still leaning against the wall, lazily glanced over at him, her expression unreadable.

Nozel met her gaze with his usual composed demeanor, though his words carried the weight of his decision. "Very well," he said, his voice calm but firm. "I will marry you."

Dorothy blinked, but otherwise remained unfazed, her face giving nothing away.

"You should pick a date for our engagement reception," Nozel continued, watching for any reaction. "The venue, the food, the music, the guest list—you can handle all of it, if you wish. I only have one condition." He paused, his tone growing slightly more authoritative. "You will respect the Silva dress code."

His words hung in the air for a moment, and he couldn't help but add, "If you don't trust me, we can skip straight to the wedding."

Inwardly, Nozel considered the implications. It would raise eyebrows in noble society, skipping the engagement entirely. But what do I care? It was a small price to pay if it meant guaranteeing his mother's safety. Traditions and appearances meant little to Nozel compared to Acier's life.

Dorothy studied him for a moment, her expression still frustratingly nonchalant. She didn't seem bothered by his sudden proposal or his conditions. She only raised an eyebrow, as if contemplating his words, but gave no immediate response.

Nozel waited, his gaze steady, wondering if this girl truly understood what she was getting herself into.

Dorothy blinked at Nozel, genuinely confused by his sudden declaration. "Wait, when did I ever say I'd marry you?" she asked, her voice laced with bewilderment.

Nozel stiffened, his grip tightening slightly around Noelle. He leaned forward and whispered in a sharp, hushed tone, "You were introduced to me as my fiancée!"

An awkward smile tugged at the corners of Dorothy's lips. "Yeah… about that. It's just a promise for now," she explained with a casual shrug. "Dad said that if I don't feel anything for you, I can break the engagement and just be adopted into the family. You know, as your sister."

Nozel's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenching as she dismissed the whole engagement as if it were nothing. He barely registered her promise to help save Acier, his mother's life seemingly secondary to the irritation he felt. "It's like you're acting as if our engagement is doomed from the start," he snapped, his voice barely concealing his growing frustration. "What do you mean by 'not feeling anything' for me?"

Dorothy tilted her head, genuinely puzzled that he didn't seem to understand. Scratching her head, she sighed softly. "You know, unless you can make me fall in love, I'm not marrying you."

Her words hit Nozel like a slap to the face, but she seemed unfazed, continuing as if they were discussing something as mundane as dinner plans. "Look, don't sweat it. You don't even want this engagement, right? So, we can just tell Dad and move on—become siblings."

Nozel's irritation flared, the indifference in her tone grating on his nerves. It wasn't just the casual dismissal of their engagement; it was the sheer audacity she had to suggest it was already a lost cause as if he had no chance whatsoever. "So, what you're saying is you want some Prince Charming, huh?" he said, his voice taking on a challenging edge.

Dorothy blinked again, taken aback by the shift in his tone.

"Very well then, Dorothy Unsworth!" Nozel declared dramatically, pointing at himself with one hand while balancing Noelle in the other. "Prepare yourself to be swept off your feet by none other than me, Nozel Silva!"

In his arms, Noelle suddenly began clapping, giggling in delight at her brother's passionate declaration. Dorothy, however, looked utterly bewildered, her eyes wide as she stared at him.

What in the world…? she thought, scratching her cheek in confusion. Among all the daydreams and fantasies, she'd ever had about marriage proposals, not once had she imagined someone would challenge her to a battle rather than woo her heart. "Uh, okay," she muttered, still perplexed. "Do… whatever you want, I guess."

Nozel clenched his fist, determination settling in his eyes. He had long since finished all his etiquette lessons, and he had mastered the fine arts of wooing and courting women. He scoffed inwardly, confident that Dorothy would be no match for his charms. She was just a little girl, after all.

If that good-for-nothing father of mine could seduce the Acier Silva, he thought with a smirk, then I, who inherited much of his looks, can easily tame someone like her.

Dorothy, meanwhile, glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, still utterly confused by how things had escalated so quickly.

Just then, Sebastian opened the door, signaling for them to come back inside. But as soon as he stepped into the hallway, he froze, immediately sensing the awkward tension hanging in the air. Nozel was staring intensely at Dorothy, his eyes locked on her like a hawk preparing to strike, while Dorothy awkwardly glanced to the side, mouthing "help" at Sebastian with a pleading expression.

Sebastian's face darkened, a storm cloud of disappointment settling over him. Did Nozel already bully her? he thought, utterly exasperated. He'd barely left them alone for a few minutes, and his son had somehow managed to create this uncomfortable situation.

Nozel's oblivious intensity didn't help matters either, Sebastian clenched his jaw, preparing to give his eldest an earful. He had expected better.

Authors Note:

[1] Jeeves, full name Reginald Jeeves (nicknamed Reggie), is a fictional valet created by P. G. Wodehouse, first appearing in 1915. He serves the idle Londoner Bertie Wooster, and is featured in Wodehouse's works for 60 years, ending with Aunts Aren't Gentlemen in 1974. Jeeves is known as the epitome of a manservant, inspiring similar characters and lending his name to services like Ask Jeeves. Though often mistaken for a butler, Jeeves is a valet, responsible for serving an individual rather than managing a household. However, he occasionally steps in as a butler when needed.