6

"What do you mean by 'They can't stay here'?" I glared at the head maid who had just informed me that my uncle disapproved of my new guests. It was clear that Uncle Michael and Elizabeth had already influenced her.

"The madam said they are not appropriate for the status of House Aureliu," she said, slightly looking down at me, and I could tell that this was not well received. I would make her pay later.

"Madam..." I muttered, a little surprised. "Remind me, Martha. Who do you work for?" I glared and directed a touch of mana toward her.

"The members of House Aureliu," she replied arrogantly.

"Yes, and that includes me and my brother, not just those distant relatives of ours. How do you think the other nobles will react to this news? 'House Aureliu can't even afford to care for three children. How far they have fallen,' they'll say about us. Michael must be unfit to lead, but of course, he's not a pureblood," I dramatically stated, portraying the sentiments of other nobles. "Does this 'madam' you speak of really want to tarnish our reputation to that extent?"

"No, miss," she answered through gritted teeth.

"Good, then. Prepare a room in the servant quarters for Heather and Evelyn. They are to serve me directly and only me. Also, inform my uncle to allocate funds for Kane's tuition, living expenses, and equipment," I stated as I sat down and took a sip from the cup of tea she had just brought in.

"Martha," I called a little calmer this time as she was halfway out the door.

"Yes, miss," she looked over her shoulder.

"I suggest you start acting in a more appropriate manner and understand your place. We wouldn't want Clover Village's famous Bloom Bakery to shut down, would we?" I said without glancing at her.

"No, my lady," fear and a hint of resentment were evident in her eyes.

"Good. Now leave and send my new maids in," I ordered.

Caught in the heat of the moment, I acted somewhat irrationally. I didn't display typical seven-year-old behavior, but perhaps it's a sign of maturity and intelligence. My second mistake was openly offending my uncle, aunt, and Elizabeth, which had likely brought them to my attention. It might also have compromised the saintly image I had been cultivating. While I should be more anxious, I was fairly certain they wouldn't take any overt actions against me; it would be far too suspicious.

It might be wise to extend an apology to my uncle for the incident four days ago, but I'm not one to engage in sycophancy. I'm the noble daughter of House Aureliu, and I believe I should be treated accordingly.

Two years passed in the blink of an eye, and I had just turned nine. Helly was getting closer to inheriting the title of head of the house, while Elizabeth and Uncle Michael were growing increasingly anxious and potentially plotting against him. I had precisely one year left to execute my plan.

I, too, hadn't spent the last two years passively. I had been proactive, securing the support of several notable nobles, including Count Von Stein, the head of the trade guild, who was expected to become the most influential in the future. Baron Solon, who was already making waves in the field of magical research thanks to my financial backing. My most recent and promising connection was Viscount Amber. Using him as a pawn, I aimed to monopolize the mining and magic stone industry.

It was vexing to have to work through intermediaries, but I had to maintain my saintly image. However, there was one nagging concern: I had not yet managed to manifest a god, despite advancing my magical abilities to the seventh class through some magic stones I found in my father's library. This had never been an issue in my previous life, and it perplexed me.

"Are you available, Callista?" Elizabeth inquired as a maid helped me with my coat.

"Yes, I'll be visiting the temple," I responded gently, maintaining a neutral expression.

"May I accompany you?" Elizabeth asked as she moved closer.

"It's alright, cousin Elizabeth. I'm sure you're quite occupied with your own matters. You needn't be concerned about my welfare," I hoped she would leave me in peace, as had been the case so far.

Elizabeth and her father typically spent their time attending social gatherings or spying on Helly, while my aunt was preoccupied with shopping and attending salons with other noblewomen. I spent most of my time observing and strategizing, preparing the chessboard for the impending political battle. It always concerned me when Elizabeth paid attention to me; after all, I was supposed to be the unassuming cousin destined for a political marriage.