Why Did I Become the Villainess?

Chapter 459: : Paper



Is my hearing deceiving me right now? How can Prince Fraser say he wants me to sit beside him?

There's no way he said that!

"Do I need to repeat myself, Csille? I said take his seat."

Excuse me? You want me to sit beside you? Are you out of your mind? How do you expect me to sit beside you after everything that's happened these past few days?

How can he allow Princess Paislee to stand for the entire meeting? It could last for an hour or two. I understand it's her duty to protect him, but doesn't he care for her? How can he let someone he loves stand for so long without offering them a seat?

Doesn't he have a sweet bone in him? Or is he just an asshole that he doesn't care if Princess Paislee gets tired for standint up that long?

I was taken aback when Princess Paislee suddenly took my hand and guided me to sit beside Prince Fraser. I was too surprised to react and just stared at her, bewildered by what was happening.

Princess Paislee just gave me a reassuring smile and positioned herself behind Prince Fraser, while I continued to stare at her in confusion.

What on earth is going on right now?

"Csille, perhaps you need a refresher on proper etiquette," Prince Fraser's words startled me. I had been so caught up in the unusual situation that I forgot it's considered improper for a lady to stare at a man.

"Apologies, I was just confused by what was happening, and it slipped my mind," I quickly replied.

Prince Fraser stared at me for a moment before nodding and turning his attention to others in the meeting room.

"Now that everyone is here, let's proceed with the meeting. I hope we can reach a productive conclusion today," he began. "Colonel Randle, why don't you start? We'd like to hear your opinion on the best course of action against the Aeslaerean Kingdom."

Colonel Randle stood up and distributed documents detailing why he believed using force was the best strategy to resist the Aeslaerean Kingdom.

The suggestion was also supported by Doctor Leander, who believed that fighting back was preferable to being pushed back by the enemy.

Meanwhile, the rest of the people at the table leaned towards pursuing peace talks, fearing that escalating to war would pose greater risks and dangers.

Their arguments were heated, each holding firm to their opinions, and it seemed unlikely that they would reach a resolution soon.

Despite the intense discussion, I found myself unable to focus on the meeting because my mind kept wandering to how unusual it was that Prince Fraser hadn't reprimanded me today.

I also can't comprehend why he would want me to sit beside him. Me?! Csille Lauretré! The same person he wants to remove from his life.

So, why? Why did he let Princess Paislee give up her seat for me?

A shiver ran down my spine when someone whispered in my ear, "Your face is so red. Are you still not feeling okay?"

I instinctively moved back from him, causing Prince Fraser to frown at me. I expected him to get angry, but instead, he sighed and shook his head before extending his hand to touch my forehead.

"It seems like you don't have a fever. But why do you look so flushed?" He lowered his hand and shook his head. "You should have excused yourself if you're not feeling well, Csille."

His actions startled me, leaving me speechless as I stared at him. I hadn't noticed that the entire room had fallen silent.

"You do appear flushed. Are you feeling unwell again?"

I glanced at Brother Pascal and shook my head. How could they expect me to appear unaffected after what the Crown Prince had done?

How!!

I attempted to calm my racing heart, but my efforts were futile. Taking a deep breath, I shook my head slightly.

"I'm doing fine. It's just a bit warm in here, but I'm okay. Let's continue our discussion, please."

Despite my attempt to resume the meeting, everyone remained silent, their attention fixed on Prince Fraser, who was staring at me intently.

"Your highness?"

Prince Fraser blinked a few times before sitting upright. "I've considered all your points, and after discussing with Prince Rufus beforehand, I've decided that taking an offensive stance is the best course of action. It's only fair to reciprocate what they've initiated."

I felt a wave of relief hearing his decision. However, that relief quickly faded as some of the others began persuading Prince Fraser to consider another round of peace talks.

I glanced at Prince Fraser, hoping he wouldn't be swayed.

No! If he agrees to peace talks, it would go against the plot. The Vrawyth Kingdom needs to retaliate for the war to begin-it's a crucial part of the story. I have to ensure that it happens.

I was about to respond when Prince Fraser turned his attention to me. "What do you think we should do, Csille?" His head leaned closer to mine, and instinctively, I moved away, wary of his intense gaze and the myriad of emotions swirling within it.

"I don't believe I have enough knowledge to offer a meaningful opinion, Your Highness," I replied, my gaze avoiding his. "Whatever decision you make, the Lauretré family will fully support it, as it is our duty to the royal family." My heart pounded in my chest, making it difficult to maintain eye contact, fearing he might notice my nervousness.

"Csille, have you forgotten that His Majesty chose you because he believes you are competent for your role as the head of Weaponry? Are you implying that His Majesty's judgment is flawed?" Prince Fraser's voice was firm, challenging me to reconsider my

hesitation.

I stared at him, wide-eyed and taken aback. I hadn't intended to question His Majesty's decision, I was merely cautious about the consequences for the Vrawyth Kingdom.

"Your highness, that is not what I mea-"

"I know. That's why I'm asking for your opinion. Should we continue diplomatic efforts or opt for a more aggressive approach?" Prince Fraser asked.

I heave a sigh. I guess, I couldn't shrink away any responsibility for any decision right now. "I believe preparing for an offensive stance is a valid option. But at the same time, I understand the profound implications war could have on our Kingdom and its people." Prince Fraser studied me silently for a moment before nodding. He then turned his attention to others. "I share your concerns. I don't wish to subject our people to unnecessary war. However, there are limits to our patience." He paused, exhaling deeply. "As a compromise, we'll pursue another round of peace talks. If they reject our efforts, then we'll shift to an offensive stance."

Everyone around the table nodded in agreement, and while it wasn't exactly what I had hoped for, I understood that it was the best decision for the moment.

I know this peace talk won't work the way they intend. I'm certain Mister Sewell will do everything to ensure it fails.

I clasped my hands together, silently hoping for a positive outcome for everyone in the

room.

Except, perhaps, for Csille.

"Csille, you should get some rest. Staying up late isn't good for your health. You've collapsed

a few times already. You need to take better care of yourself."

I smile warmly at Brother Pascal before pulling him into a tight hug. I have a feeling that

things are nearing their end.

I don't know when I'll have the chance to hug Brother Pascal again.

I sense him stiffen at my sudden embrace, but I hold onto him a little longer.

I'm sorry, Brother. I'm sorry for what's going to happen in the future. Please don't blame yourself for what will occur. I hope you continue pursuing your dream of being a doctor and find happiness.

Please... please be happy.

"Csille, is everything alright?"

Feeling my eyes welling up, I quickly break from the hug and offer him a reassuring smile. "I'm okay, Brother. I think I just miss mother and father."

Brother Pascal gazed affectionately at me and gently caressed my head. "I'm sure they miss you too. Please take better care of yourself. Aunt and Uncle wouldn't want to hear how much you're neglecting your well-being."

I nodded and gave him a reassuring smile, thanking him silently for his concern. Watching Brother Pascal leave, I entered my room with a sad smile. I sighed heavily and lay

down on my bed, feeling the weight of everything settling in.

Things are about to change, and right now, it's in the palm of my hand. I picked up the

whistle from the bedside table along with a small piece of paper.

"Should I really do this?"

My hand trembled as I held the paper and whistle. Deep down, I already knew the answer to

my question, but confronting it was another matter.

I didn't want to face it.

Tears start to roll down my face as I contemplate what I'm going to do. I know I don't really

have a choice, but deep down, I wish I did. I knew deep down that I had no other choice, but part of me desperately wished I did. This decision wasn't just about me, it was a matter of life and death for everyone here.

"You need to do this, Ysavel. You want to go home, right?" I choked on my words as I uttered

the word "home."

The word felt distant now, as though it referred to a place I once knew but no longer belonged

to.

That is the place where I should belong, yet my heart doesn't want to agree with me. Sobs continue to escape from my mouth as I hold the whistle tightly, wishing it would crumble in my hand. But no matter how much force I put into it, it didn't even bend. Just like my future. I couldn't bend it, no matter how much I wished I could.

I let my emotions take hold of me, acknowledging the fact that I am hurting right now. Because I know once I decide, there is no time for regrets.

After crying for a minute or so, I sit up on my bed and reluctantly write the words I never

wished to write.

I look at the contents of the small paper and sigh deeply before blowing the whistle. A minute later, I hear a small knock on my window and see a messenger bird scratching the glass.

I quickly stand up and open the window. The bird looks at me, raising its leg as if urging me to

hand over the small paper in my hand.

I sigh heavily and reluctantly hand the paper to the bird. It takes it and flies away

immediately, leaving me alone and in tears.

"It's official now. I've truly become the villainess of this world."