The Sleeping Devil

Perhaps due to using magic power during class, the discomfort inside my body disappeared, but I felt unusually fatigued. My legs didn't respond as I wished, and just raising my arms a bit felt heavy.

Could this be my actual physical strength? It was often cautioned that enhancing oneself with magic power all the time isn't good, was this the reason?

I need to learn this strengthening thing sooner rather than later. Despite my motivation, as soon as I lay my tired body on the bed, I quickly fell asleep.

"Sheriel-sama, it's about time."

Mary's gentle voice pulled me back from the world of dreams. Despite the short nap, my head felt clear upon waking, and the fatigue has disappeared.

"Mmm... Thank you. Oh right, it's about Noah, I wonder, does everyone fear colors that don't exist?"

"I'm truly sorry... It's just that the color black is associated with demons..."

"Even though you work at the Beriard estate, demons are still something to be feared, huh?"

Mary took a slight breath as if she's received divine inspiration, then widened her eyes and let out a convinced sound.

"Indeed, it's probably because the members of the Beriard family... I mean, I apologize."

Concrete details like colors or appearances related to the Devil's Forest weren't mentioned, but maybe just the color black easily gets associated with fear. In my past life too, there was the superstition that black cats were ominous, so it's probably something along those lines. Things that we've never actually seen tend to inflate feelings of fear and prejudice.

Outside the window, the sun was beginning to set. The purple sky was mixed with red and indigo, resembling the colors of the Beriard estate. As I felt a kinship with the clouds dyed in three colors, the place was decorated in the blink of an eye.

My dress isn't anything like a corset; it's more like a voluminous one-piece with lots of fabric. For this unveiling event, I'm wearing the colors of both my parents - the crimson fabric is adorned with navy embroidery. Though it's a bit mature for a seven-year-old, it's very chic and cool, so I'm quite fond of it.

A few days ago, Didier gave me a white rose, and they pinned it into my hair, which I've done up in a half-up style.

"Are you okay?"

It's a different kind of anxiety compared to the first time I came here. I'm about to head to what's akin to my unveiling event. Only very close family members are gathering, including the aides and knights who have been restricted until now. Once this is over, I'll finally be able to freely roam the castle, but after that conversation just now, I've suddenly become unsure about my hair color.

"Of course, because you're so adorable."

"I hope the cuteness of a child will work on the Beriards..."

Children unconditionally find things cute, it seems to be an animal instinct. Flashes of the mocking smiles of the young ladies and young masters I saw in my death dreams flickered in my mind, and I sighed. A soft knock came from the door and Mary responded, revealing Didier standing there in formal attire.

"Hehe, it seems my adorable little sister was some kind of princess somewhere."

"Thank you for coming to pick me up, Didier-sama."

His slightly unconventional lavender hair is tied high, and his white-based formal suit is adorned with delicate blue embroidery. I haven't seen much white fabric, so I suppose it was tailored for this occasion.

"It's a bit sad that I'm not wearing your color, big brother."

"Don't you think? That's why, here."

Smoothly extended toward me was a thin, pale purple rose. The thorns had been neatly dealt with, and it was a size larger than the white rose I received the other day. As Didier inserted it beside the white rose, it almost felt as if we're real siblings.

"Thank you very much. Now, there's still grandfather."

"Sheriel, give grandfather the white rose. If you keep putting flowers in your hair, it might become quite a spectacle."

"But this is something I received from you, big brother. Is it alright?"

"Of course. It's a white rose meant for this purpose."

Escorted by Didier, we walked toward the back of the main building. It might be a little extravagant to dress up this much for a birthday party with only close family members, but that's how it is for nobles.

Passing by several similar doors, we finally reached the one with the servants waiting behind it.

"It's not the usual dining room."

"Hmm? It's technically an unveiling event. But this is a smaller hall."

With a creaking sound, the door opened, and the sight beyond it made me freeze in place.

"How is this a private family unveiling event?"

"We've actually narrowed down the number of people quite a bit, you know?"

What the heck! There must be around a hundred, no, maybe two hundred people here. The glamor is enough to make you think it's someone's wedding.

People inside the venue started noticing my presence as I stood there paralyzed. The room fell into a momentary hush. Some frowned, others averted their eyes, some assessed me from head to toe, and occasionally there were those who relaxed their cheeks. But the friendly gazes were very few.

"Well, shall we go? Grandfather's been waiting."

As Didier smiled, the atmosphere in the room seemed to change. Bewilderment, perhaps even panic.

Descending the split staircase, Sergio, Dior, and Hermes are for us waiting below. My tense body naturally loosened in their presence, like a feeling of relaxation washing over me.

For those Beriards I was so afraid of, to now be the most comforting presence--seven years ago, I couldn't have imagined such a thing.

"Sheriel, even though it's a bit late, happy birthday."

"Thank you, Father."

"Mmm! How lovely... But Didier, why are you the only one in that kind of outfit?"

"Oh, I happened to find someone from another country with connections at the academy. The academy isn't too bad either."

Facing Hermes' glare, Didier responded with a calm expression and gave me a nudge with his elbow. I see, so this was his plan...

"Grandfather, may I present this to you?"

Saying so, I offered the white rose to him. Hermes covered his face with both hands and looked up at the sky. A faint groan escaped him, but this was a usual occurrence, so he should be fine. Grandfather was still his usual shy self.

"Haah... very well, I'll gratefully accept it."

As Hermes came back to his senses, he bent slightly at the waist, and I inserted the white rose into his lapel. In return, Hermes took out a small jewelry box.

"This is a gift from me to Sheriel for her birthday. Will you accept it?"

Gently opening the jewelry box, the smooth opal brooch inside was illuminated by the hall's light, revealing its ever-shifting colors. Its pale milky-white hue, like Hermes' light blond hair, combined with the glimmer of gold, was breathtaking. The brooch had a subtle, exquisitely designed edge, not overly flashy but detailed enough that you'd want to gaze at it for a long time.

"Grandfather, it's so lovely, I don't know what to do... I'll treasure it."

I pinned it to my chest, completing the collection of Beriard family colors. Suddenly, I glanced around and noticed that skeptical gazes have transformed into mended smiles.

Holding hands with Didier and Sergio, I ascended to the podium. Inside the smaller hall, three tables were arranged, adorned with a variety of meat dishes and fruit platters. It seemed to be a standing party format, with about 200 adults all focused on us.

Sergio took a step forward, and even the faint rustling of clothes disappeared.

"Thank you all for gathering here. Today marks the day a new member has joined the Beriard family. Since this is a private family unveiling, let's skip the formalities."

Hermes furrowed his brows, glaring at Sergio, but the man himself seemed completely unaware and continued his words briskly. It's somewhat reassuring for me since it helps ease the tension, but as I thought that, Sergio, who was wrapping up, looked back at me.

"Now, Sheriel, greet everyone."

Of course, I should. But I didn't hear anything about such a large number of people, so I'm completely unprepared. Margot-sensei, help!

Given a gentle push by Didier, as I stepped forward, I focused on recalling the etiquette lessons I've received.

"It's a pleasure to meet you all for the first time. I am Sheriel Beriard, the second child of the Beriard Marquis family. I express my gratitude to the Water God for the joy of being able to greet all of you today. I look forward to our acquaintance."

I meticulously executed the noble etiquette, from the tips of my fingers to my posture. To maintain my balance, I stabilized my core and lightly lifted my skirt, then slightly parted my left leg while sliding the toes of my right leg to the back. I can't bend my knees in a traditional curtsey, so my movement is closer to a ballet's bow. Since today is more casual, I only lowered my hips a bit. But my legs and abs were close to cramping.

This would be the first and last time I perform this greeting for them. It's essentially a practice, but I thought there would only be teachers, servants, and a few aides, so I regretted not practicing more.

As scattered applause started and spread throughout the room, I finally felt my shoulders relax.

Without a moment to catch my breath, as soon as I sat down on the chair arranged on the podium, I started receiving greetings from the noble guests one after another.

Sergio's aides, Dior's escort knights, and even Hermes' guard knights seem to have participated. However, it's not everyone; it seems only those who hold positions are present. Still, it's quite a number, and I'm anxious if I'll be able to remember them all in one go.

All of them, without exception, shifted their gaze to my hair. They don't overtly display their discomfort, but I can sense their confusion. It seems I've become somewhat adept at reading noble expressions.

Even the lower-ranking nobles, the servants, were attending the banquet. However, it appears that their purpose was to remember my face, as they didn't directly engage in conversation.

"Sheriel, feeling tired? Shall I get you some food?"

"Thank you, Didier. Just a small portion of fruit, please."

Sugar, I need sugar. My head is tired, and I crave something sweet more than meat.

"Sheriel-sama, congratulations on your birth."

Upon hearing the familiar voice, I turned my gaze forward. Margot, wearing an elegant deep green dress, was performing a graceful, top-tier bow.

She should be stretching her toes neatly, with her knees touching the ground, but her feet weren't protruding even slightly from her skirt. Her smooth return to her upright posture was exactly the refined lady I aim to become.

"Margot-sensei!"

I inadvertently blurted it out, and Margot's sharp gaze pierced through me. Oh no, what am I doing, letting my guard down like this?

"Margot-sama, thank you for gracing us with your presence. Your words of celebration are deeply appreciated."

"Margot, it's fine for a day like today. After all, it's a celebration."

"It's not fine, especially because it's today, Didier-sama. This is a valuable practice opportunity. But Sheriel-sama, your previous greeting was incredibly beautiful and elegant."

Margot's words made me want to rush forward and hug her with a teary smile. Of course, if I did that, she'll certainly give me a stern lecture.

"Margot-sensei... These are the most heartwarming words of celebration."

Moisture brimming in my eyes, Simon arrived as well. He praised my greetings and manners as well, and I'm regaining my spirits more and more. It seems I was even more downcast than I thought. The gazes still flit my way, as if they were still watching me conversing and eating.

Perhaps predicting this situation, the familiar aides and teachers might have waited until others finished their greetings. Since I managed to chat with Marcel and Licht, I've become much more at ease.

After all the greetings were finished and everyone was enjoying their food and drinks, it's time for the second part of the unveiling.

"Now, Sheriel, put water in this cup."

The unveiling ceremony is not only about introducing myself but also about revealing the blessing I've received. Therefore, I couldn't hold the birth celebration on my actual birthday, given the spell mishap during the initial ritual.

As everyone watched, it's customary for nobles to create a large cup of water with basic water magic. It can be just a few droplets, but I plan to create a perfectly formed water sphere as I practiced.

"Sheriel, don't cause a flood like you did in your bedroom, alright? Even if your aim is slightly off, with a cup that big, you should be fine."

"Big brother, I've practiced a lot for today, so it should be fine."

I assured Didier and, amid everyone's attention, placed my palm over the cup. Despite the short nap I took, I haven't forgotten the feeling.

Keeping my focus, I created a neat water sphere, and to maintain its shape, I adjusted my magic once more.

"Well, how is it? Did I make it beautifully?"

Turning back with confidence, I found my entire family staring wide-eyed and frozen. Did I manage to create something so beautiful that they're this surprised? It's embarrassing.

"Wait a moment, isn't this a bit too much even for the Beriards?"

"No, this is odd, why aren't you chanting? What's happening?"

Huh? Just as I'm about to think that, Marcel, who was watching nearby, let out a yell akin to a thunderbolt.

"Miss Sheriel!"

Uh-oh, scary. Marcel's shout triggered commotion in the room. Did I do something wrong? I couldn't really tell from the atmosphere. So, I reluctantly dropped the water sphere into the cup and timidly aligned myself with everyone.

"Why are you coming back so casually?"

"Yeah, yeah! The Beriard family is temporarily retreating! Zaris, please hold back Marcel. Oh, everyone, please continue enjoying the feast. Yes, well then, see you at tomorrow's official duties!"

Sergio, unusually quick on his feet, swiftly gave out commands, and the entire Beriard family hurriedly exited the venue, away from Marcel. Apparently, tonight will be a long night as well.