Chapter 21: Bonds of Care and Leadership

**Tatiana's Viewpoint**

Blinking away the last vestiges of sleep, I rub my eyes and take in the familiar surroundings. My body nestled comfortably in a bed that wraps me in warmth, an irresistible urge to surrender to slumber rears its head. I recognize this coziness. It is my room at the inn we'd rented.

"Uhhh…, ahhhh… hmm… where am I?" I mumble to myself, my mind still swimming in the haze of sleep.

"This bed is so soft… I could stay here forever…" I murmur, curling up like a cat luxuriating in the morning sun. The plushness of the mattress seems different, more inviting, and the fabric carries a pleasing scent that makes my senses dance in joy.

"Lady Tatiana appears to be in good spirits this morning, although…" A voice that I know all too well interrupts my serene moment.

"Ah…, LILY!!?" I exclaim, instantly alert.

My peaceful morning is shattered. I recoil in embarrassment as I realize how undignified I must have appeared to her. In my panic, I clutch the pillow tightly to my chest as though it could hide my discomfort.

"…Why didn't you say something?" My voice is barely a whisper, weighed down by embarrassment.

A soft chuckle escapes Lily, and I can see a glimmer of amusement dancing in her eyes.

"I beg your pardon, but I found it quite endearing to see Lady Tatiana's youthful side. I must admit, it was an adorable sight," she says, the corners of her mouth twitching with a suppressed smile.

"Lily…" I sigh in relief, if it had been Blanc, she would have teased me relentlessly for my childish behavior.

In response to Lily's light-hearted amusement, I can't help but pout a little, even as I feel a fond smile tugging at my lips. As odd as it may seem, I'd missed these little exchanges with Lily. As I catch her eye, my pout transforms into a genuine smile.

"…Here, you can freshen up with this."

Lily passes me a warm towel, and I thank her as I wipe my face. The fabric feels soothing against my skin, and I can't help but notice how the elegant maid's dress she's wearing compliments her.

Turning towards the window, Lily lets in the morning light, which floods the room and makes everything seem brighter.

"…Oh, I almost forgot; welcome back, Lady Tatiana. We are overjoyed to see you return safely."

The sight of Lily, dressed in her maid's attire, welcoming me with such warmth is incredibly comforting.

"Yes, thank you, Lily. It's wonderful to be back," I reply, my heart warmed by her radiant smile.

Lily adjusted her dress with meticulous care, her movements betraying a hint of caution as if seeking perfection.

"By the way, I would love to hear your honest opinion about how my maid outfit looks. Does it please your eyes?" She inquired, holding the tips of her skirt and gracefully twirling to show it off.

The sincerity in her voice urged me to respond truthfully. "Lily, you look absolutely stunning in that outfit. It suits you perfectly," I complimented her, unable to hold back my admiration. Her figure, coupled with her striking purple hair, radiated an ethereal charm that reminded me of the beauty found in ancient legends.

Her face lit up with joy, and she couldn't hide her excitement. "If Lady Tatiana thinks so, I'd gladly wear this attire all the time. Though, if I were to ask Lady Blanc, I have no doubt she'd dismiss the idea without a second thought," she said with a hint of humor, but also a touch of apprehension. Lily hesitated to discuss Blanc, well aware of her strict and uncompromising attitude.

I chuckled softly, envisioning Blanc's reaction. "Ahaha…, I can well imagine that," I concurred. Blanc's straightforward nature often led to amusing exchanges, to say the least. Imagining Lily's request and Blanc's swift refusal brought a smile to my face.

As Lily twirled happily in her dress, I couldn't help but feel content. "However, Lily, no matter what your role is, I hope we'll always remain friends," I expressed sincerely. I didn't want her to feel obligated to serve us; instead, I cherished our bond as friends from the very beginning.

"Lady Tatiana…, that is, of course, if milady wishes it," she replied, gracefully inclining her head in acknowledgment. Her manners reflected her elegance, making her look even more enchanting in the maid outfit.

"No, it's not something I'd ever force upon you," I assured her, gesturing with my hand to emphasize my point. I wanted her to know that she had the freedom to choose her path, and our friendship was not conditional on her being our maid.

Her smile widened, and a soft chuckle escaped her lips, as if my words had eased a burden she might not have even known she carried.

Following our heartfelt conversation, Lily attended to her duties with utmost care and grace. She served breakfast and tea on the side table with precision, a display of her impeccable skills as a maid. Meanwhile, she tidied the room, changing the bedsheets and making sure everything was in its proper place.

"So, how do you feel at the moment?" Lily's voice permeates the air, poised and calm, matching the rhythm of her deft movements as she changes the bedsheets.

"Um... I have a bit of a headache, but I think I'm quite alright," I confess, puzzled by her sudden query. I ponder whether the rigors of our recent adventures are manifesting in physical discomfort. I need to toughen up, I decide, add more regular exercise to my routine.

As I complete my morning routines - breakfast, washing my face - Lily's inquisitiveness surfaces again. Her sudden turn as an investigator both bewilders and intrigues me.

"Is that so? Allow me to check," she offers, setting aside the clean sheets and approaching me.

"Lily?!" I startle, unprepared for her abrupt transition into a healthcare role.

Lily's assessment is thorough. She checks my temperature, examines my oral cavity, and listens to my heartbeat with her ear, much like a physician would. A memory of past doctor's visits surfaces. I had not expected such medical proficiency from Lily.

"Finished. You do have a slight fever," she concludes, distancing herself in a professional manner. She discards her gloves and dons a fresh pair, most likely to avoid any potential spread of infection.

Energized by her diagnosis and eager to share my adventures, I decide to meet Sakuya and Blanc. I glance at my current attire, a sleep robe in my favourite colour, and feel a surge of joy. But as I contemplate changing, Lily interjects.

"I strongly advise against socializing in your current state. You might be contagious," she whispers into my ear, her stern gaze amplifying the gravity of her words.

Taken aback by her words, I scan the closet for my clothes only to find Lily monitoring my movements.

"Ehhh?? But..." I attempt to reason, insisting that my sickness is not severe.

"No buts, Lady Tatiana. Lady Sakuya herself suggested rest. You should recover in a few days," Lily reassures, her words laced with genuine concern for my wellbeing.

"Fine, so Lady Sakuya said that? She must be upset with me," I mutter, a wave of melancholy washing over me.

"If I may, Lady Sakuya seemed more worried for your safety than anything else," Lily responds. Her words bring some solace, a reminder that Sakuya cares for my wellbeing.

With a nod, I accept her counsel. "Alright, I'll rest."

Lily then gestures towards a small bell within my reach. "If you need anything, ring this bell. I'm here to assist you at any time."

I make a mental note to use it sparingly, to avoid being a bother. However, Lily seems to read my thoughts. "Lady Tatiana, did you just decide not to use the bell so as not to disturb me?"

Caught off guard by her astute observation, I quickly assure her. "No, I'll definitely use it."

My attention then drifts to a faint smoke trail emanating from a small container. "What's that?" I inquire, curiosity piqued.

"Oh, this? It's a calming incense candle. Does the scent bother you?" Lily explains, concern softening her features.

"No, it's actually quite pleasant. Good night, Lily." Despite the early hour, I bid her farewell, feeling a wave of sleepiness wash over me.

As I succumbed to the enticing lure of sleep, I heard the soft creaking of the door closing behind Lily. Even in my feverish state, the scent of the incense and the comfort of Lily's care brought a sense of peace, lulling me into a restful slumber.

**Lily's Perspective**

Descending the stairs, I found Lady Blanc engrossed in her study, her concern for Lady Tatiana palpable. A mischievous thought crossed my mind - what playful remark could I make to lighten the atmosphere?

"How was she?" Lady Blanc inquired without shifting her gaze.

"She's awake now, but I put her back to sleep to alleviate her slight fatigue and fever. I administered my homemade medicine, and she should be back to her usual self within two or three days," I reported, ensuring Lady Blanc had all the necessary information.

Her response was an expected mix of amazement and restrained praise. "How did you acquire such expertise in medicine?" she asked, her face betraying little surprise but offering compliments nonetheless.

I enjoyed teasing her. "Oh, that's a lady's secret, reserved only for other ladies," I responded, playfully tempting her to probe further. I couldn't resist imagining her trying to replicate a seductive pose, but her petite stature made the image amusing.

Her focus, however, remained on her psychic abilities. I chuckled inwardly, aware of Lady Blanc's tendency to avoid certain topics and divert attention.

Thankfully, Lady Sakuya expressed relief at the news of Lady Tatiana's awakening. The tension in the room eased slightly.

A silence enveloped us as Lady Blanc absorbed the news. "Oh, Lady Blanc, I've also conveyed the news of the cleared Everwood Forest to the relevant authorities. They're sending their representatives to assess the situation," I informed her, emphasizing Lady Tatiana and Lady Sakuya's achievement.

Lady Blanc acknowledged my report with her usual cool demeanor. "That's certainly good news," she acknowledged in her own way.

"They also requested a meeting with Lady Tatiana, but I thought it would be a valuable experience for her to attend in person," I explained, knowing Lady Blanc might have taken the responsibility herself.

Both Lady Blanc and Lady Sakuya agreed with the decision, acknowledging the importance of Lady Tatiana's role as their leader. I silently vowed to relay their decision and schedule the meeting with the town mayor soon.

"This is just the beginning, isn't it?" Lady Sakuya mused, sipping her green tea.

"Exactly. This is only the first step in our agenda," Lady Blanc responded, her excitement barely contained.

"It will undoubtedly draw more attention to Lady Tatiana," I added, aligning my thoughts with theirs.

Lady Blanc emphasized the need to prepare and strengthen our forces for what lay ahead, her mind already engrossed in strategizing.

Lady Tatiana's presence had a profound effect on both of them. Lady Sakuya's caring nature, hidden beneath her calm exterior, revealed itself in her genuine concern for Lady Tatiana. Meanwhile, Lady Blanc continued to pave the way for Lady Tatiana's growth as a leader, and I found myself wanting to support her from the shadows, my duty as her loyal companion.

-Chapter 21 End-