Chapter 158
“I hadn’t heard that one of the party was a noblewoman. Could I have misunderstood something?”
Licia’s words were not a question. It was clear that she was subtly criticizing Sebelia for being a commoner staying at the official residence with Dehart. While she made an effort to be polite, the underlying contempt was obvious to Dehart.
Figured as much.
Dehart clicked his tongue, making sure no one could hear.
Nobles with little engagement with other cities and no significant advantages are often extremely conservative and hold outdated views.
For example, there are those who feel ashamed or insulted simply by sharing a space with commoners—a mindset that’s rare in the central or northern regions.
So she’s that kind of noble. Quite different from her father, who was all smiles.
When Dehart saw Licia’s cold green eyes turn to Sebelia, his expression hardened. It didn’t matter who she was or what her thoughts were, but he could not tolerate that arrogance directed at Sebelia.
“She’s called Bella. She’s been with us longer than most noblewomen, and she’s a valuable companion. I’d appreciate it if you didn’t neglect her during our stay.”
Dehart deliberately stretched his arm behind Sebelia’s waist as if escorting her. Although their bodies didn’t touch, the action made it clear that he didn’t treat her as just a commoner.
This gesture caught the attention of not only Licia but also the servants who managed the residence.
Does she not like having a non-noble party of just doctors staying here?
Sebelia quickly understood the situation. She saw a fleeting look of irritation pass through Licia’s emotionless green eyes. Sebelia didn’t miss it.
“I see.”
Licia quickly returned to her aloof and indifferent demeanor and muttered quietly.
“Well, I suppose it can’t be helped.”
Licia blinked thoughtfully for a moment, then extended her gloved hand.
“It’s a pleasure. I am Licia, the eldest daughter and heir of Baron Suffredi, who has governed this land for generations. You may simply call me ‘Miss.’”
Her tone and manner were incredibly arrogant, as if she was grudgingly tolerating the situation, making it clear that this was an exception. Sebelia watched her with a look of unfamiliarity.
In the central regions, even nobles wouldn’t be this rude to a commoner.
The areas left untouched by the nobility were filled with specialized workers who were all commoners.
In reality, some of them had amassed fortunes greater than those of many regional nobles. Though the nobility may have secretly looked down on them, they would never make the foolish mistake of showing it openly.
Interesting.
She briefly observed Licia before replying to her greeting. As long as her arrogance didn’t harm her directly, Sebelia didn’t care much about it.
“I’m Bella. Thank you for providing us with a place to stay.”
“Yes.”
Licia dismissed Sebelia’s greeting with a short reply before swiftly turning her head to look at Dehart. Her emerald-like eyes shimmered with a captivating aura.
“By the way, it’s quite lucky that I’m meeting you, Duke. My father has been wanting to speak with you urgently. I assume you’ll be coming with me?”
“Me? If it’s something minor, I assume the matter has already been settled.”
Dehart said with a tone of indifference, prompting Licia to narrow her eyes. The slight furrow of her brows, combined with her elegant appearance, created a serious atmosphere.
“It’s urgent. It concerns the herbs discovered beneath the canyon.”
“…I see. Well, we can finish this quickly. I’ll return before evening, so we can have dinner together, Bella.”
When it came to matters involving herbs, Dehart couldn’t stay idle. It was related to Sebelia’s life, after all. He sighed and called for a guard to escort Sebelia to her room.
“The carriage is ready.”
Licia whispered kindly as she walked away with light steps. Sebelia stood silently and watched them leave.
The moment Dehart and Licia left the residence, he naturally opened the door for her, allowing her to go first. She nodded with a light bow, thanking him.
“How kind of you.”
Licia whispered as she slightly leaned against Dehart. Sebelia’s blue eyes narrowed as she watched them.
Just then, Licia turned her head over Dehart’s shoulder.
Her deep green eyes curved sharply. She gave Sebelia a dismissive once-over before sneering and turning her head.
“Ah.”
It was then that Sebelia realized Licia’s disdain for her went beyond just her commoner status. The cold laugh that escaped Licia confirmed it.
This is becoming troublesome.
Sebelia cast a cold glance at the spot where Dehart had disappeared and followed the guard’s lead as she left the hall.
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