Yamiyo no Hotaru

Chapter 175

 "Alright, let's go."

 With the girl's life on the line, the written message turned into a homing pigeon, spreading its wings and taking flight. Its destination was the capital, headed towards the Ako household's residence.

 Murasaki, having sent instructions to the branch family and laborers, headed towards the orphanage's stable. The carriage was already prepared. By the time she arrived at her own residence, everything would be ready on the other side as well.

 "Young lady...!!"

 "Yona, I'll leave this place in your care for now. I'll be back by tomorrow at the latest, maybe even within half a day."

 Ako gave instructions to the female attendants who would be sending her off. There were many orphans, and it was also a matter of surveillance and restraint, so she planned to leave one attendant and one servant from the house behind.

 "Isn't this impolite? You're going to such great lengths, and yet there's no one to send young lady off..."

 "It's fine, they're all busy. I won't bother them with a big sendoff."

 Murasaki, who was setting off, was being considerate, but Yona thought that at least a small sendoff was necessary. However, Murasaki was nonchalant about it, as if she was used to the Onitsuki household's coordinator's strict behavior. There was no need to worry about what others thought. It couldn't be helped.

 (Besides, it wasn't like he had the leisure to do so either.)

 Although she would be staying for several days, Murasaki knew that the man at this orphanage wasn't just idle. If she didn't have Yona to help him, she wondered how he would manage the household chores. There were also sick people to take care of, and it was better not to cause trouble.

 "Young lady, isn't that a bit too indulgent?"

 "It's important to be respectful, but being too obsessed with it is also a bit pathetic. And to think that you're seeking it yourself... If you have virtue, you'll naturally receive respect."

 The noble lady still treats her maid with kindness. This is especially a kind of ritual. It also means respecting the servant's position.

 "You're the one who should be left behind, it can't be helped."

 "No, it's not like that..."

 Yona bowed her head in apology, showing her respect. There was a clear sense of reverence towards her lord in her attitude. Violet was satisfied with this.

 (...That servant, he won't even lift a finger, right?)

 Men are beasts, and if it's ladies-in-waiting, he might do something reckless with a carefree attitude.

 (No way, it can't be...)

 Considering their relationship so far, he wouldn't think that... But, after seeing that scene on the bed, she can't have any confidence. What is that guy? He's flirting with that woman, isn't he? Does he think any hole is fine? Is he crazy? Is he shameless?!?"

 "Young lady...?"

 "Huh? ...Cough! Well, I'll be off then."

 She came back to her senses, coughed, and turned around to get into the carriage. As she got in, she faced Miyataka's young lady, nose to nose.

 "Eh?"

 "Peek-a-boo!"

 "Ukyaaah!!?"

 "Young lady?!"