Chapter 4 - So This Is Why I Transmigrated

Chapter 4 – So this is why I transmigrated.

“My lady, there are rumors spreading in the capital. Rumors that your marriage with His Grace is actually a ‘transaction.'”

“Is something wrong?”

In the dining room where silence lingered, my unusually quiet demeanor must have seemed strange, as Rubellian cautiously asked me.

At his question, I, who had been quietly cutting my steak, set down my fork and slowly raised my head.

“Rubellian.”

At my more serious expression than usual, Rubellian’s face tensed up as well. With a worried look, wondering if something major had happened, he gazed at me.

Meeting his crimson eyes, I picked up my wine glass.

“The wine is too bitter.”

“……”

“Give me grape juice instead.”

You know I can’t drink alcohol.

At my words, Rubellian laughed as if dumbfounded. Soon, he spoke affectionately as if completely defeated.

“That’s also alcohol-free.”

“Then why is it so bitter? I can taste the flavor of life itself.”

“Your life must be bitter then.”

“My life is sweet, you know? Why are you suddenly making someone else’s life miserable?”

I pouted and picked up the wine glass. After swirling the wine in my mouth and savoring it for a moment, I set the glass down again.

The taste was mildly bitter, just as I had expected. So once again, I’m denied the joy of drink and festivity.

I can’t even drink as I please—why did I even transmigrate?

When I slightly drooped the corners of my mouth, I could feel Rubellian laughing. Soon, when he gestured with his chin, a maid nearby brought over orange juice.

“Don’t you have grape juice? I look like a child all by myself.”

“Pour me a glass too.”

“……”

“Does this work?”

Since I wasn’t unaware of his habit of having a glass of wine with every dinner, I just pouted. Soon, he drank the juice with me and spoke up.

“Was the wine that bitter?”

“It was.”

“You were sighing as if the world was ending?”

Did I do that? I shrugged my shoulders.

Actually, what Lilith had told me today wouldn’t leave my mind. If Lilith had heard it and told me about it, there was no way Rubellian didn’t know about it.

So was he hiding it from me, or was he just pretending it didn’t matter?

I could easily guess who the source of this rumor was without much speculation.

None other than the Duchy of Colica.

Well, I did insult the Empress pretty harshly, and even the Crown Prince scolded her… Could it be that she’s acting like this because she quarreled with her son?

Then just how much did Rachel and the Crown Prince have to endure when they were dating… Ugh. I shuddered, feeling sorry for Rachel for no reason.

Now that such rumors had spread, the Emperor wouldn’t stay still. If he dug deeper, he could deduce that Rubellian was planning rebellion.

“What’s wrong?”

Rubellian asked again.I looked at him, patiently awaiting my answer, and lowered my fork onto the plate.

“I’m done eating.”

“With just that much?”

“I drank too much tea in the afternoon.”

“You need to eat sweets in moderation and have proper meals. It’ll ruin your health. You’re already frail, which is problematic.”

I blinked my eyes. Hmm? Do I look frail? Where exactly? It would be hard to have such vitality in my face otherwise.

I stared at him wiping his mouth with a napkin and tilted my head. Is it my imagination that he seems overprotective these days? It doesn’t seem like my imagination after all.

“Shall we go for a walk outside?”

“A walk?”

I nodded. Soon, he got up from his seat and pulled out my chair slightly. Naturally linking arms, I spoke as we left the dining room.

“But it’s really strange how you keep trying to feed me things lately. This morning too, you put four pieces of bread in my mouth, even hand-feeding me soup.”

“You need to eat a lot.”

I stopped abruptly and stared at Rubellian. Rubellian calmly received my narrowed, searching gaze and smiled. At the smile playing on his face, I blinked my eyes.

“Suspicious…”

“What is?”

“Why are you being so nice to me? Come to think of it, you’ve been doing everything I ask for lately. Isn’t this a bit excessive? Did my father make some kind of deal again…!”

“Someone who’s been happily accepting everything I do for her doesn’t seem to be in a position to say that.”

“Well, that’s just how I am originally.”

At my confident words, Rubellian let out a laugh.

Soon, as he lowered his head to find my lips, I blocked his mouth with my finger and spoke.

“See, see. Taking every opportunity for skinship.”

“Isn’t it okay? We’re married, aren’t we?”

“But weren’t we in a contract marriage?”

“How many noble couples started with love anyway?”

“Oh my, so that’s what it was? Skinship out of duty?”

I smiled teasingly. However, in response to my question, Rubellian—uncharacteristically—looked flustered.

“It’s not like that.”

“What?”

“It’s not duty.”

Rubellian’s face was quite serious, making it embarrassing to joke around. Eventually, I rolled my eyes and chose to become serious along with him.

Right, there’s no point in struggling alone. I nodded as if I had made a big decision.

“Rubellian. I heard a rumor. About you and me—more precisely, that there’s another transaction behind this marriage.”

Let’s just say it boldly. Struggling internally won’t solve anything.

With that intention, I spoke with quite a serious face, but Rubellian instead laughed lightly.

“Really?”

“You’re laughing? Don’t you know how serious and big of a deal this is?”

If the Emperor heard this, he’d go “Oh ho! Our son is getting revenge on me. He’s got guts too, how delightful.” Yeah right.

No, why is he so carefree? Has he lost his mind? Has revenge clouded his judgment to the point he no longer remembers his mission?

I grabbed his arm in shock. But at that moment, Rubellian pulled me into his arms.

“Huh, what?”

His fragrance reached me. What cologne does he use? Before that, the problem is that he knows too well how handsome he is.

“So, are you worried?”

Ugh, he seems to know very well that his voice is attractive too?

The whispering question by my ear sent chills down my spine. No, what is this? It’s so cheesy I’m practically cringing out of my skin, but somehow… I don’t want it to stop.

Ah, my heart is melting.They say beauty is truth, and none more so than my husband.

“Of course I’m worried! What if we get caught already!”

I let out a long sigh. But in the midst of this, this man just keeps laughing, finding something so amusing. While I’m struggling in frustration, Rubellian continued.

“You don’t need to worry.”

“About what?”

“It’s a false rumor.”

“…Hmm? It’s not exactly a false rumor, is it? You didn’t marry me out of love. At the very least, it’s not the transcendent love of the century that we’re known for in public…”

Then, when I met Rubellian’s gaze, I had no choice but to blink and trail off.

“…is it?”

Is it my fault that something feels strange? Is that honey dripping from Rubellian’s eyes? Why does he look at me with those smiling eyes? It’s enough to confuse anyone watching.

“Well, isn’t it not not right?”

“Not not not… Ah, confusing. So you’re saying it’s right or wrong? When did we ever have a chance to bloom such flowers of love before marriage…”

Could it be that he really wanted to marry me because he liked me? As soon as that thought occurred, I quickly pressed his forehead.

“Rubellian, there are plenty of decent women in the world besides me. Did you perhaps give up on life because of too much shock?”

“What are you talking about?”

“Why do you like me! Is there a problem with your ideal type? Do you perhaps have some trauma that makes you like women with unexpected charm? Like me?”

“You’re the same inside and out.”

“What are you saying? I look so pitiful! My behavior is graceful and my expressions are elegant! Who would have thought, looking at me, that such a creature could dwell within?!”

“Just inside and out, you’re… well, following your own words, you were a troublemaker.”

…What? Troublemaker? Ha, troublemaker? Right now I’m being called a troublemaker by this man… I did act like one, but still, to call your heavenly wife a troublemaker?!

“I remember you admitting it yourself?”

“Even if I said that, you should say no! You should say I’m the smartest and wisest wife in the world! The answer is already decided and you just need to respond, don’t you know?”

Looking at me fuming, Rubellian smiled again.

Why are you laughing again? Do you think I’ll fall for it if you smile? If you smile so sweetly like that, my anger melts away and oh my, my husband’s face is really—

“You’re really working hard…”

Eventually, I let out a deep sigh. This is why the term “beauty that topples nations” came about. Falling head over heels for a concubine, giving this and that—it wasn’t a saying that came out of nowhere.

As I shook my head, having fallen for his beauty trap, Rubellian spoke.

“Pretty.”

“What is?”

“You.”

Is this what it means for your face to flush hot? At the sudden attack, I strode forward. Of course, I was immediately caught up with.

“That… anyway, what are you going to do about this rumor?”

“It seems to be because the two of us haven’t appeared together at any official events.”

“Then what should we do? Should we force ourselves to participate?”

Being executed for rebellion would be a hundred times worse than simply drinking tea and chatting. Thinking that, Rubellian shook his head and spoke with a meaningful expression.

“No, there’s no need for that. Just showing properly once will be enough.”

“Once?”

When I tilted my head in confusion, Rubellian flicked my forehead.

“Soon, Rachel will be declared a saint. It seems they’re trying to use her sainthood as an excuse to bind the Imperial family’s hands.”

“Then…”

“All the nobles of the Empire will have to attend. Won’t that be enough to show them then?”

“Show what?”

“That Duke Florence can’t live without his wife.”

For a moment, breath tickled the corner of my mouth. I held my breath several times, afraid my nervousness would be discovered.

Ah, somehow… I feel like I’m going to cause a proper incident because of this man.

* * *

I spoke while watching Marie busily braiding and putting up my hair.

“It hurts. Pull it a little less.”

“I’m sorry. I was trying to secure it firmly for a moment…”

“I think doing it moderately would be fine.”

“No way! Today is the day you formally stand with His Grace in front of all the nobles!”

Marie clenched both fists.

Every time I read novels, I think about it—why do maids risk their lives to serve their masters? If it were me, I’d just work appropriately for the salary I receive.

“It’s done.”

Marie placed the final flower in my hair. If someone else did it, they’d look like a child with flowers, but when I did it, it was unexpectedly pretty. The bright colors seemed like they’d suit the temple too.

“Then have a safe trip. Don’t forget to tell me about the temple when you return.”

I nodded.

Soon after leaving the room, Rubellian was waiting for me. Looking at his dark navy uniform and neatly swept-back hair, I almost lost my mind.

Rubellian looked at me and paused for a moment. But soon he smiled affectionately and spoke.

“Pretty. Beautiful.”

At his words, I laughed. Seriously, how can he talk so charmingly?

Soon we got into the carriage together.

“I’m nervous. A saint—this is a different feeling…”

“You’re very interested in Rachel.”

Since it wasn’t wrong, I nodded.

“I am interested. It’s fascinating.”

Because she’s the female protagonist.

“Fascinating?”

“Well, this and that? She’s quite the talk of the town… But why are you suddenly asking?”

“Just, you seem to be paying excessive attention to her.”

Did I pay excessive attention to Rachel? I don’t particularly remember that. In fact, I had forgotten about her for a while and felt a bit guilty.

But from Rubellian’s standards, that seemed to be paying excessive attention, as he looked somewhat hurt for some reason.

Wait, hurt?

What would he be hurt about me paying attention to Rachel? I pondered for a moment and tilted my head.

Perhaps…

“Just asking, but isn’t Rachel the important one for you today?”

“……”

Rubellian had no answer. He just quietly rested his chin on his hand and stared out the window.

In the rattling carriage, I glanced at him and burst into laughter. Ah, come to think of it, what’s important for us is to dispel the rumors that Rubellian and I are just a show couple.

I smiled slyly. When I smiled with slightly narrowed eyes, I felt Rubellian flinch.

“Why are you looking at me like that?”

“What shall we do today?”

“What do you mean?”

“Shall we kiss? Or shall we hold each other all day?”

“What…”

“We have to show them that you love me.”

Apparently, he dislikes the thought of our relationship being nothing but business.

“Isn’t that right?”

Rubellian stared at me and then curled up the corners of his mouth and pressed his lips firmly to mine.

“Right.”

“……”

His crimson eyes were fixed on me.

Not knowing how to react, I pondered for a moment and then sought his lips to return the kiss.

With a smacking sound, our lips parted, and this time a large hand cupped my head.

“Mmm…”

A sound flowed out between my teeth. Without realizing it, I gripped his shirt collar tightly, and Rubellian opened his mouth. In the midst of it all, I couldn’t help but laugh seeing the lipstick on his lips.

“Ah, lipstick.”

I brushed his lips with my finger. But at that moment, I was startled when he bit my finger. His sweet tongue brushed past my fingertip.

“Rubellian, are you hungry? No, even if you’re hungry, how can you eat someone’s finger…”

At my stammering words, Rubellian’s brow furrowed slightly. But as if nothing had happened, he released his mouth and whispered softly.

“Because you’re pretty.”

My face flushed hot at that. But I felt good in the midst of it all, so not knowing what to do and flustering about, I fanned myself with my hand and spoke coyly.

“I know that too.”

“Right.”

“But what if I hadn’t washed my hands? Isn’t it dirty?”

Of course I had washed my hands, but not knowing how to handle the conversation topic, I eventually stammered.

Then Rubellian pressed his lips to mine once more.

“Didn’t I tell you? Mine isn’t dirty.”

…I want to hide. I want to hide. My heart is beating so hard right now… Ah, but hearts originally beat.

I eventually lowered my gaze. No matter how unreasonable I am, this is a bit difficult. It would be better to scold him. But when he says I’m pretty, pretty like this, I don’t know what to do!

After having some peace of mind for a while, I let out a long sigh. For now, it would be better to get this man’s face away from me—it’s bad for my heart—

That was the moment it hit me.

Suddenly the carriage stopped and the coachman’s voice was heard.

Eventually, having been unilaterally pushed around without being able to say anything, I blinked sourly.

I said I would dote on him, but now it seems like I’m the one being doted on—this isn’t my imagination, right? Some sense of injustice washed over me.

“Eve, get down.”

I finally came to my senses and took Rubellian’s hand.

Just today, just today I’ll let myself be led. Just today I’m too flustered to know what’s what.

After savoring my silent triumph and stepping down from the carriage, I met the hostile, mocking stares of the noble crowd before me—and suddenly, my resolve wavered.

Among them, there were even groups murmuring audibly. And the topic was, as expected, “the vulgar commoner-born duchess.”

“Rubellian, can I cause trouble today?”

“You can.”

“To what extent?”

“Only to the extent that I can clean up after you.”

“How much can you clean up?”

“I can clean up everything except assassinating royalty.”

How touching. He says everything except assassinating royalty is okay. So that means even if I sew up those people’s mouths right now, it can be cleaned up?

I glared at all the gathered people with a displeased expression. At my gaze, they blinked and hurriedly averted their eyes.

If they tuck their tails so easily, why do they act like that? There was no consistency in those people’s way of thinking.

“Rubellian, let’s go in first.”

Sighing and lifting my head, I couldn’t help but flinch at Rubellian’s gaze coldly staring into the distance. His gaze was directed at the group that had been chattering just before.

How long had he been watching? From when I turned my head? Then the reason those people were trembling in fear was…

“Rubellian.”

At my call, he smiled again and turned his head toward me.

Look at that difference. Feeling somewhat proud, I stroked his cheek, when trumpet sounds were heard from afar.

“His Imperial Majesty the Emperor and Her Imperial Majesty the Empress are arriving!”

Instantly, Rubellian’s face became incomparably colder than before.

Here comes the root of all evil.

I won’t bother explaining what an absurd character the Emperor is. I can only be certain of one thing: that bastard is the one who ruined Rubellian’s life.

Looking at the nobles split to both sides with the Emperor stepping on the carpet at the center, I also bowed slightly. The Empress following behind was smiling benevolently, and the Crown Prince had a solemn expression.

How can all the Imperial family members be so unlikeable? Among them, at least the Crown Prince is somewhat useful.

“Your Majesty.”

Rubellian bowed to the Emperor who had approached us. Though there was no disgust on his respectful face, knowing the circumstances, I could easily notice how much anger Rubellian was currently hiding.

“It’s been a long time, Duke. I’m very pleased to see you like this.”

Still, because he’s his son, right? Reading the dripping emotions of joy from the Emperor’s voice, I became a little displeased.

“Duchess Florence, this is my first time seeing you today. You’re truly as beautiful as rumored.”

“It’s an honor, Your Majesty.”

I lowered my head without making eye contact with the Emperor, following the etiquette Lilith had taught me.

Soon the Emperor patted Rubellian’s shoulder and passed by. Looking at the traces of their passage, Rubellian hardened his expression. I squeezed Rubellian’s hand tightly.

“Shall we go in?”

“Let’s.”

“Straighten your face.”

“……”

Rubellian turned his head to look at my face. He maintained silence for a moment as if thinking about something, then nodded.

Feeling good at that smile, I was about to enter the temple together when suddenly someone muttered quietly.

“As expected, His Majesty toward Duke Florence…”

“Shh.”

The person was quickly silenced by the person next to them.

Feeling unnecessarily upset, I bit my lip, and Rubellian asked why as if wondering.

I shook my head nonchalantly. If I had been insulted, I would have immediately run to tell him, but I didn’t want to inform him of things like this.

“It’s nothing, let’s go in.”

Upon entering the temple, high-ranking nobles caught my eye. Among them were people from the Duchy of Colica, as well as nobles who stayed far from political struggles.

After finishing ceremonial greetings with them, I turned my head at the murmuring sounds from behind.

“That’s the woman.”

“That, the prophecy’s…”

“That’s the one with that demon’s…”

It was obviously about Rachel.

I let out a deep sigh as I watched Rachel walk, shrinking under the watchful eyes of knights posing as her escort.

How can her fate be so troubled too? Everyone around me is nothing but people with troubled fates.

As I looked at her with pity, Rachel, who had been slowly approaching, turned her head toward us.

“Oh?”

Rachel looked surprised to see me, then soon smiled shyly, her lips twitching slightly. It seemed to be because I had saved her before.

I smiled back in response to her smile.

At that, Rubellian beside me expressed puzzlement.

“Did you two meet? Apart from that first encounter.”

“No way. How could I? I’ve been home the whole time—where would I have had a chance to meet Rachel?”

“But you seem quite close.”

No, this man. Is he jealous of Rachel again?

I pouted and looked at Rubellian. Then I smiled brightly and linked arms with him.

“We’re close. I’m close with everyone.”

“Hmm.”

“And I’m closest with my husband.”

“Thanks for saying that at least.”

His face held a gentle smile, but I could tell he was unsettled beneath it, so I couldn’t bring myself to laugh with him.

Eventually, after pondering for a moment, I spoke.

“So, I really think I married well.”

When I smiled broadly at him, he let out a chuckle.

Soon, watching Rachel enter what was called the “Room of Piety,” I imagined a fairly bright future.

My husband is perfect, and the female protagonist just smiled at me, so couldn’t this be seen as the original story being twisted?

It was while I was smiling so carelessly that it happened.

From far away, someone approached us. Slightly disheveled hair and formal attire. Watching Rubellian’s face instinctively harden, I blinked.

“Who is it?”

“His Majesty’s chamberlain.”

As soon as Rubellian’s answer ended, the chamberlain stood before us. While I was sending questioning glances, he calmly spoke to Rubellian and me.

“His Majesty summons you.”

I let go of my arm linked with Rubellian’s and smiled as if wishing him well. However, the chamberlain’s gaze was directed at me.

“The Duchess.”

Instantly, I felt Rubellian’s body stiffen. His face hardened endlessly cold and clear anger began to frost over.

“No.”

“Your Grace, it’s His Majesty’s command.”

“No.”

Rubellian was firm. But knowing what emotion was hidden behind that firmness, I frowned.

“It’s a command from His Imperial Majesty the Emperor. Do you wish to defy the imperial decree?”

“It’s okay, I’ll go—”

“No. I’ll go see His Majesty myself.”

Rubellian’s stance was firmer than I expected. I didn’t need to wonder what trauma this had stirred in him.

His mother was summoned by the Emperor and violated. Though he would never do such a thing to his son’s wife, from Rubellian’s position, there was no way he could send me off with a smile.