The Past Life of the Arrogant Archduke - Chapter 20

After their talents had gone unappreciated in what should have been the most ideal opportunity to showcase them—a noble wedding they served at—they were left dejected.

“Are we… being dismissed like this?”

“No way…”

“But really, why else would His Highness call us at this hour?”

Other noble families had plenty of reasons to get dressed up—banquets, tea parties, casual outings, even dates with lovers.

In fact, for nobles, maintaining dignity began with dressing up, something both men and women started first thing in the morning.

But none of them had seen the Grand Duke or Grand Duchess since the wedding. Even if they tried to understand that it was due to the honeymoon, they couldn’t help but feel uneasy when thinking about the Grand Duke’s formerly cold demeanor.

He was the kind of man who had found even the formal phrase “Rightful Protector of the North,” used when greeting the direct heir of the Grand Duchy, too cumbersome and omitted it entirely.

“He hasn’t once summoned us since the wedding. Maybe he really doesn’t need us and plans to dismiss us now?”

“…I don’t think so.”

“……”

“Even the lady-in-waiting assigned exclusively to Her Highness hasn’t seen her once.”

“The bath maid said she hasn’t assisted Her Highness at all. She just prepares everything and is then told to leave.”

“Oh, I heard that too. His Highness carries Her Highness into the bath, washes her himself, and carries her back out.”

“Are they all going to get fired too…?”

“…Ah.”

A long silence fell. The pride they had once held for working in the Grand Duchy—the most prestigious house in the North, having even turned down an Imperial appointment—was beginning to wear away, and their eyes grew vacant.

After they had been sitting awkwardly in silence for some time, the door opened and the Grand Duke entered.

“We greet Your Highness.”

They all rose in unison and bowed. Raymond acknowledged them with a nod, then spoke.

“I need your talents. Do your best to make me shine.”

Their eyes went blank. Their mouths dropped open.

Did I hear that right? I’m… not getting fired?

As their minds processed the Grand Duke’s words, their hearts started pounding. Their faded passion for creation sprang up anew.

This was their chance! Whether it was a whim or not!

When a man who had no interest in maintaining one’s appearance suddenly started caring, it was usually because he wanted to look good for a woman.

‘They say His Highness calls Her Highness Master…’

They realized that the starry-eyed gossip of the maids who brought food to the side room was true.

With renewed professional resolve, they examined Raymond with sharp eyes. Somehow, he looked even more handsome than he had on the wedding day.

There was also a certain human warmth to his presence now that hadn’t been there before.

Turns out, falling in love makes anyone—man or woman—more beautiful.

They didn’t know that it was because becoming a Sword Master had brought Raymond’s physique into perfect balance, but it was true that after meeting Yulia, he had gained emotional stability and an added sense of charm.

How radiant would His Highness be if we gave him full dressing and styling? And to think it’s us who get to make that happen?

‘We will do everything in our power to turn him into a living god descended upon the world.’

Thank you so, so much, Your Highness!

Madness flickered in their eyes. The heat was intense enough to make even the Sword Master Raymond flinch.

In truth, Raymond hadn’t thought very deeply about “dressing” or “styling.” He was only imagining things like trimming his hair, wearing appropriate clothes, applying some cologne, or carrying a scented sachet.

One might say it was strange for a high-ranking noble to be so uninformed, but in a way, it was natural.

Ever since he had suddenly developed an extreme aversion to women at age sixteen, what parent would insist on styling their noble son?

Especially when most professionals in this field were women.

In earlier years, he had focused solely on his knight training, and afterward had spent his time on the battlefield until his coming-of-age. It was only natural that Raymond lacked knowledge and etiquette about maintaining his appearance.

All those now gathered in the wardrobe were men—specifically chosen by his parents for their skill and discretion.

In high nobility, appearance was a form of politics. Those who managed a noble’s appearance were crucial players.

If they couldn’t employ talented staff because of gender, they would foster and train those of another.

The foresight of the previous Grand Duke and Duchess, who did everything in their power for their son’s future, now shone brightly.