"How have you been these past few years?"
"Pretty good."
"You've become a High-Gold Knight. You're more talented than your sister."
"Just luck. It's not worth mentioning."
The two chatted idly at first, but gradually, they found more to talk about.
"Second Sister, I remember you're two years younger than Eldest Brother. Has Father arranged a marriage for you?"
At the mention of this topic, Olseya could not help but reveal a sweet smile. "He's a Holy Knight from a commoner background. I just don't know whether Father will agree."
"If he marries into the family, it should be easy enough. But if you marry out, it'll be difficult. Father definitely won't agree," Velin said helplessly.
"I know." Olseya's tone was somewhat despondent. "The family has invested many resources in me, which means I can't decide my own marriage. Since I enjoyed the benefits, I must fulfill my obligations. Father explained this principle to me when I was three."
"After some time, I'll come clean to Father."
"Whatever the outcome, I'll obey Father's decision."
"Second Sister, it's best that you think that way. Otherwise, if Father gets serious, that commoner-born Holy Knight will die without a sound." Looking at Olseya, Velin gave her a blunt warning, hoping she would consider the consequences carefully and avoid an irreparable outcome.
"I know."
Olseya still wore a smile, but it was a sorrowful one.
Velin had never been especially close to this sister of his.
Of all his siblings, Velin was closest to his eldest brother, followed by his Fourth Brother Risis, and only then his two sisters. This had much to do with how long they had spent together.
"Second Sister, I have things to do, so I'll be leaving first."
"Mm. I'll stay a little longer."
Watching her younger brother's departing