My family fell not long ago. Once one of the most prominent families in the Empire, we could no longer maintain our former glory due to successive business failures and political ruin.

Eventually, my parents asked for help from the Luther Grand Duchy, with whom they had long-standing ties, and I came to stay at Grand Duke Kyle Luther's mansion until the situation was settled.

I had only encountered Kyle a few times at official banquets. He was always blunt and cold, and he never particularly spoke with me.

I didn't expect to live under the same roof with such a person, but it wasn't entirely uncomfortable. At least here, no one pointed fingers at me, calling me the daughter of a fallen family.

Then, one winter dawn,

Having stepped out of my room for a moment because I was thirsty, I discovered that Kyle's door was slightly open while I was on my way to get some water.