After leaving the dining hall, I didn't return to my room.
How could I? Sitting alone in that cold silence would only sharpen the questions rattling in my head. I needed answers—something real to grasp—so instead, I wandered the halls without aim, boots echoing on marble, until I spotted him again.
The servant.
Same as before, standing stiffly near the staircase, just where I'd first seen him.
He noticed me watching. Bowed. Then walked over.
Before he could speak, I cut in.
"Follow me."
He hesitated briefly but then complied, trailing after me at a polite distance.
"What's your name?" I asked.
"Ah— it's Gilbert, Third young master," he replied, closing the distance between us, clearly recognizing that I intended to speak with him.
"And how long have you been working here?"
"It's been half a year, Young master."
"And do you know everything about the barony?" I asked, keeping my tone dry and cold— doing my best impression of a prideful noble interrogating a servant about his loyalty.
"Yes, young master. I believe I know as much as any employee of the household."
"Then, would you care to enlighten me on what this knowledge entails?" I asked, gesturing for him to speak.
"Of course, young master." Then Gilbert turned towards me and stood even straighter as though preparing to deliver a formal lecture and began:
"The Barony of Halburn has been under the rule of House Colden since your great-grandfather's time. Baron Hilbert Wilson Colden was a hero of the First Great Subjugation, when a Red Zone erupted on the northern border between Stonevale and Valedorin, threatening the nearby villages. His valor earned him the land by royal decree—Halburn, the very territory he fought to protect.
"His successor, your grandfather—Baron Silvester von Colden— brought even greater honor to the house through his achievements in the royal knightdivision, where he served as a Captain."
Impressive, sure. But how's the barony this wealthy? No way the emperor's footing the bill for all this silk and silver. Just as I was wondering this he continued.
"As for the current situation: Baron Augustine Aster Colden— your father— has brought the barony immense wealth and prestige through father—has led the barony to great prosperity through diplomacy and commerce. He brokered a strategic alliance with Stonevale and now oversees a flourishing trade network. Though he holds no military title, he serves as the king's advisor and is a member of the royal council.
"He married Lady Eileen Rosewood, whose family controls one of the most influential merchant guilds in the capital— Vale. This further cemented House Colden's influence in both politics and commerce."
"There are four successors to the barony.
"The eldest, Young Master Wallace Elric Colden, is the heir. A brilliant scholar, he studied administration in Thorendell and is highly respected for his intellect and wisdom.
Naturally. Of course, the firstborn was a genius.
"The second, Young Master Claude Leo Colden, resides in the capital with his maternal grandparents. He has a great interest in theatrical performances and creative arts. He manages the barony's theaters in the capital and is acclaimed for his screenwriting and acting– which he enjoys as a hobby"
How charming. The artistic one.
Then he got to the part I was most curious about— who exactly is Sebastian– whose body I now possess?
"The third, Young Master Sebastian Rhett Colden— you— recently had your coming-of-age ceremony. You are considered one of the most eligible bachelors in the empire. Your refined demeanor and elegant appearance has captivated the hearts of many young ladies. There have been talks of suitors, including a formal inquiry from the princess of Fiervern Dutchy. However, your health has required attention before further arrangements."
I just stared at him blinking.... is that it?
"The fourth, Young Master Orville Igraine Colden, is already considered a prodigy in swordsmanship and magical combat. Many believe he will carry on your grandfather's legacy and become an honourable knight."
So let me get this straight. Out of four Colden brothers, one's a prodigy heir, one's a theater legend, the youngest is slicing boulders in half with a sword right now—and me? I'm the pretty one with a weak constitution.
Gilbert paused, then added more gently, "That is the gist of it, Young Master. Of course, there are more details, but I believe you should not overexert yourself while still recovering. Would you like me to escort you back to your room?"
"…Yes. Please. Thank you," I replied, trying to keep my face neutral— though I don't believe I managed it flawlessly.
He inclined his head and turned in silence, taking the lead this time.
And me? I followed, trying not to let my face show anything.
Seriously, Gilbert?
There's more? You just dumped an entire history book on me! And out of four brothers, I'm the only one whose highlight is... being popular because I look 'pretty'. And even that's undercut by being 'fragile'. And not once did you say something nice about me. To summarise he basically said: 'I've got a pretty face, but I might die tomorrow.'
And why does that even sting? I'm not even the real Sebastian!
At this point, I can't even tell if he actually dislikes me or he's just blunt. Or maybe both.
Anyway, ignoring all the offensive remarks, I've now almost got the entire picture and that's something I had not actually expected to uncover today. So.... Gilbert was actually quite helpful.
And yes, now I finally know what I have to decide– Will I marry the princess of friervern or not?
The answer, I believe, is pretty obvious so I don't actually have to make a decision..... Yay!?