The next day arrived quite quickly after our dinner with Aunt Frisca, and we settled in for the night. Today marked a fresh start. I woke up early, thanks to Saori's gentle nudging.

Stretching as I rose from bed, I made my way to the luxurious bathroom. It was a sight to behold, with a large bath and water flowing through pipes. And to my surprise, there was soap – a rare commodity, reserved for wealthy commoners and nobles. It was made from lovely-smelling herbs and sometimes fruits.

Using the soap and indulging in the bath, I couldn't help but marvel at the experience. It was the first time I had ever enjoyed such a luxurious soak. As I emerged from the bath, feeling refreshed I reached for a toothbrush and indulged in the refreshing sensation of strong mint cleaning my mouth.

Wrapping myself in a soft towel, I stepped out of the bathroom and back into the bedroom. The room itself was already attached to the bathroom, seamlessly blending comfort and convenience.

Upon exiting the bathroom, I noticed that Anco and Saori were still lingering in the room. As Saori headed into the bathroom after my departure, I turned to Anco, who seemed firmly planted in her spot.

"Would you mind giving me some privacy? I need to get dressed," I requested, hoping to avoid any unnecessary confrontation.

Anco, who had been preoccupied with her own activities, finally acknowledged my presence with a nonchalant glance. "You're right. I'll spare myself from the sight of your ugliness," she retorted, her words dripping with sarcasm. "I'd rather not risk being blinded for life."

Her sharp words cut through the air, leaving me momentarily stunned. "How dare you say that you bitch!" I exclaimed, unable to contain my outrage, before quickly covering my mouth in shock at my own outburst.

Anco, unfazed by my reaction, simply smirked in response. "Looks like the pretty princess has a foul mouth," she teased, finding amusement in my momentary lapse of composure.

Turning away from Anco's remark, I made a conscious effort to shake off the negativity clouding my mood. "I shouldn't let Anco ruin my day," I reminded myself, determined to maintain my composure.

With a deep breath, I turned back to Anco and declared, "Fine, if you don't want to leave, you can stay."

Anco visibly flinched at my response, hastily retreating from the room with a muttered "No thank you," leaving me to my own devices.

Turning my attention to more uplifting matters, I rummaged through my bag and retrieved a sundress and underwear, preparing to get ready for the day ahead. Nearby, on the dresser beside our bunk bed, I spotted a bottle marked "Lotion."

"Ahh, I've heard about this," I mused with a smile. "It helps the skin to get smooth and makes you smell nice."

Most of Aunt Frisca's amenities were reserved exclusively for nobles, including luxuries like soap, deodorant, lotion, and even running water. As I applied the lotion, reveling in its silky texture and pleasant scent, I couldn't help but feel a sense of privilege wash over me.

Continuing my morning routine, I discovered a deodorant that seemed tailor-made for me. After applying it, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, I couldn't help but admire my reflection in the mirror. For the first time in my life, I felt truly beautiful.

With newfound confidence, I styled my hair into playful pigtails using two scrunchies, adding a touch of whimsy to my appearance. As I prepared to face the day ahead, I knew that Anco's snide remarks would pale in comparison to the radiant confidence I now exuded.

Leaving the room, I ventured into the hallway, where I was met with a sea of butlers and maids. Their constant bowing felt surreal to me – after all, I was just a regular girl like anyone else. Nevertheless, I accepted their gestures of respect with a polite nod, acknowledging the strange customs.

Descending the grand staircase, I encountered Casia, who greeted me with a warm smile.

"Good morning, young Miss Giselle," Casia greeted with a respectful bow.

"Ah, good morning, Casia," I replied with a smile, returning her gesture.

"Please follow me, young lady. Your sister and parents are awaiting both you and Lady Saori's presence," Casia instructed, leading the way.

I nodded in acknowledgment and followed her, soon arriving at the dining room where my mother, father, Anco, and Aunt Frisca were already seated.

Taking my place at the table, I greeted everyone with a cheerful "Good morning."

"Giselle, I must say you look very beautiful," Aunt Frisca complimented warmly.

"Thank you very much, Auntie. You do as well," I replied graciously.

However, before the pleasant atmosphere could settle, Anco interjected with her usual sharp tongue. "Huh, no, she looks like a clown with that hairstyle," she remarked, her tone dripping with disdain.

Aunt Frisca swiftly came to my defense, turning to face Anco with a pointed look. "How can a clown call another a clown?" she retorted, her voice tinged with amusement.

Anco, visibly bristling at the remark, shot back, "If I'm a clown, you're a witch."

Aunt Frisca chuckled at the retort, unfazed by Anco's attempt at insult. "Hahaha, of course, I'm a witch. After all, I'm very powerful. But unlike you, my dear rowdy niece, you have no respect, making you a simple clown right now," she countered with a playful smirk.

Suppressing a laugh at the unexpected turn of events, I couldn't help but admire Aunt Frisca's quick wit. "It seems Anco has met her match. Serves her right. Nice going, Aunt Frisca," I thought to myself, amused by the exchange.

Before Anco could escalate the situation further, my father and mother intervened, urging for reconciliation. "Sister, forgive Anco once more," my father implored, his tone gentle yet firm.

"Sister-in-law, don't mind Anco; she's like that all the time," my mother reassured Aunt Frisca.

"I'm not offended by her measly attempt to insult me," Aunt Frisca replied calmly, dismissing Anco's remarks.

Just then, Saori arrived and greeted everyone before taking her seat at the table. With everyone settled, we began to dig into the sumptuous spread laid out before us. Anco, true to form, dove into her meal with gusto, clearly unfazed by the ongoing conversation.

Midway through our meal, my father broached the topic. "Sister, is Elder Sister Dominica going to come?"

Aunt Frisca, sipping her tea delicately, responded, "She, along with Brother, Mother, and some friends of theirs, will be arriving today at most."

Upon hearing this, my mother's anxiety became palpable. "T-today?" she stammered, clearly worried about the impending arrival.

Aunt Frisca nodded in confirmation before turning the conversation toward a more unexpected topic. "Anyways, do you guys have no intention of sending your girls to the magic academy?"

Mother and father exchanged surprised glances, clearly caught off guard by the sudden inquiry. "Magic academy?" Mother echoed, her tone tinged with curiosity.

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With a knowing smile, Aunt Frisca continued, "I can sense that they have mana running through their veins and they have a lot of potential."

My father's eyes widened in astonishment, a smile spreading across his face. "My girls have the potential to wield magic? That's incredible," he exclaimed, clearly impressed by the revelation.

Aunt Frisca nodded, her expression serious yet determined. "So, do you not want to send them to the magic academy?"

Before my parents could respond, Saori interjected with a valid concern. "Excuse me, Aunt Frisca, but isn't the magic academy expensive? I mean, based on what Casia told us yesterday, and plus I don't think Mama and Papa have enough money to send us there."

"Saori's right, Sister-in-law. It's pretty expensive, but if our kids have that power, then that means they have a big future instead of having them married off," my mother chimed in, voicing her agreement with Aunt Frisca's proposal.

Aunt Frisca's smile widened at Mother's words. "Renna, you've gotten smarter. It's good that you're thinking ahead. Making your girls mages will allow them to have a steady life, and that starts with the magic academy. Don't worry about the payments; I'm thinking of enrolling them there myself using my own money," she reassured, her tone confident and reassuring.

Her generous offer left us all stunned, and I couldn't help but express my admiration. "Wow, really, Aunt Frisca? You're amazing," I exclaimed, genuinely impressed by her selflessness.

Anco, true to form, voiced her dissent. "This and that talk about the magic academy, I won't go," she declared stubbornly.

Rolling my eyes at her obstinance, I retorted, "Nobody wants you there anyway, Anco. You'd just ruin everything."

Anco then leaped onto the table, aiming to lunge at me, but suddenly she found herself suspended in mid-air, as if frozen in place.

"Huh, what happened?" I wondered, puzzled by the sudden turn of events. Glancing over at Aunt Frisca, I heard her stern voice cutting through the tension, "As I've said yesterday, I do not tolerate violence within my household."

The room fell into a stunned silence as we all processed what had just occurred. My mother, ever the peacemaker, spoke up, "Sister-in-law, please release Anco. She made a mistake. She's just like that."

Aunt Frisca remained firm, her expression unwavering. "Well, teach her some manners," she replied resolutely.

With Aunt Frisca's command, Anco was gently lowered back into her chair, released from her invisible restraint. Confusion evident in her voice, she stammered, "What... what was that?"

"I used a magic spell called Stasis Charm. It stops all movements for whoever I cast it upon, freezing them in time," explained Aunt Frisca, her tone matter-of-fact.

Her revelation left me in awe, and a grin spread across my face. "Aunt Frisca is so cool and powerful," I thought to myself, impressed by her abilities.

Meanwhile, my mother rushed to Anco, embracing her tightly. "Don't try anything like that again, my dear," she pleaded, her concern evident.

Anco, still visibly upset, couldn't contain her frustration and lashed out, directing her anger towards Aunt Frisca. "You damn witch!" she shouted, her words sharp with resentment.

Aunt Frisca remained composed, her response measured. "Anco Lynette, are you an animal or a person?" she questioned calmly, her gaze steady.

Startled by the inquiry, Anco retorted, "Of course, I'm a person!"

Taking a sip of her tea, Aunt Frisca continued, her voice unwavering. "Then act like it. I cannot accept wild animals in my home," she stated firmly, setting a clear boundary.

Though clearly seething, Anco held her tongue and begrudgingly returned to her seat, focusing on her meal in silence.

Seizing the opportunity to shift the conversation, Saori spoke up, her curiosity piqued. "Aunt Frisca, if we attend the magic academy, can we learn spells like that?"

Aunt Frisca nodded, a hint of pride in her voice. "Of course, my dear. This is just one of many spells you'll learn, provided you have a good amount of mana. And since you inherited your mana from me, there should be no issue," she assured, offering a glimpse into the magical possibilities that awaited us.

"My sister, if you're truly willing to cover all the expenses for the girls, I'm at a loss for how to repay you," expressed my father, gratitude evident in his tone.

"Oh, please, brother. You've already repaid me in full. Who could have imagined that you'd raise three beautiful girls, all endowed with the gift of mana? Even though they inherited most of their mana from me, you've done an excellent job in nurturing such capable daughters," Aunt Frisca responded, her words filled with genuine admiration.

I couldn't help but smile at Aunt Frisca's words. Despite her stern demeanor, she had a commendable side to her – someone who was strong, composed, and remarkably supportive.

As we continued our breakfast, my parents and Aunt Frisca delved into discussions about the magic academy. Aunt Frisca then made a decisive statement.

"So, it's settled. Since enrollment at the academy is only open for ages thirteen to fifteen, Anco and Saori will begin this year. The enrollment period starts in three months."

Her words took me by surprise. "Saori and Anco enrolling this year?" I thought, caught off guard by the sudden decision.

My parents nodded in agreement, and Aunt Frisca continued, "Giselle will join once she turns thirteen. In the meantime, Anco and Saori will stay here with me, learning the basics under my guidance before their enrollment.

I was taken aback by Aunt Frisca's declaration. She was essentially stating that Anco and Saori wouldn't return home with us after the family gathering. Instead, they would stay with her to prepare for the academy over the next three months.

Saori expressed her surprise, "Aunt Frisca, we won't be going back home after the gathering?"

"Of course not. You two have much to learn before the academy reopens. It's time to settle down," Aunt Frisca replied firmly.

Anco challenged, "What if I refuse?"

My mother shot Anco a stern look, but she remained defiant. Aunt Frisca simply smiled, "Then you're free to return home. You might pursue other paths or accept the life of a housewife, if that's your choice."

Anco grumbled, "Fine, I won't end up as some housewife. I'll go."

My parents beamed with joy at Anco's decision, but I couldn't help feeling a twinge of sadness. Without my sisters around, I'd miss having them to talk to.

Aunt Frisca noticed my downcast expression and reassured me, "Don't worry, Giselle. When you turn thirteen, you'll join us here to prepare for the academy. I'll train you too. Once you're enrolled, you'll reunite with your sisters."

My face lit up with happiness. "Yes!" I exclaimed.

After breakfast, I stepped outside to get some fresh air and contemplate the upcoming separation from my sisters.

Lost in thought, I pondered, "What will I do when my sisters leave? Who will I confide in and befriend?"

As I contemplated, a looming shadow interrupted my musings. Looking up, I saw a tall figure in armor and exclaimed, "Swordmaster Crusade!?"

"Hahaha! What brings you to Madam Frisca's estate?" Swordmaster Crusade inquired.

"She's my aunt. But why are you here?" I responded.

"Ah, you're her niece? My apologies for being so informal earlier," Swordmaster Crusade said, adjusting his tone.

I waved off his apology. "No worries. So, what brings you here?"

He explained, "Remember that task I was working on when you first saw me? Madam Frisca had put out a request to get rid of the big python. Once I finished it and got my reward, she wanted to meet me. I got in past the guards, but then I ditched the maid who was leading me so I could sneak around and explore Madam Frisca's place. That's when I bumped into you."

"That's quite the adventure, hahaha," I chuckled, smiling.

Swordmaster Crusade joined in with a hearty laugh, "Kuwahahaha!"

Amidst our conversation, a maid came rushing, calling out, "Swordmaster Crusade, please refrain from running around Madam Frisca's estate."

Upon reaching us and noticing me, she immediately bowed, apologizing, "Young miss, please forgive me. You must have been disturbed by this gentleman. Please forgive us; we will leave now."

I reassured her, "No need to apologize. It's fine. Well then, Swordmaster Crusade, enjoy your meeting with Auntie. And by the way, be sure to greet her respectfully and kiss her hand before speaking."

With that, I rose from the bench and continued my stroll, contemplating fate along the way.

I made my way to the lake to visit the big turtle once more. For the remainder of the day, I sat by the serene waters until Casia interrupted my thoughts.

"Miss Giselle, I've been searching for you all day," Casia exclaimed, accompanied by a maid named Urie.

Turning towards them, I inquired, "What's up, Casia?"

Casia explained, "Urie here will be your personal maid during your stay."

Surprised, I glanced at Urie, who bowed gracefully. With her dark complexion, black hair, and striking pink-blue eyes, she made quite an impression.

"Ah, I see," I responded before returning my gaze to the tranquil lake.

Casia then informed me, "I'll leave you now, but Urie will be by your side to assist you whenever needed."

Before she departed, I asked, "Did my sisters also receive personal maids?"

"Certainly, all your family members did," Casia confirmed as she walked away.

I turned to Urie, expressing, "If you don't mind, Urie-san, I'm feeling a bit hungry after spending three hours out here."

Urie nodded, asking, "What would you like to eat?"

"Perhaps some pie and water," I requested.

With a bow, Urie headed off to fetch my snack. As I sighed to myself, I mused, "Having a personal maid? Not bad at all. I hope we get along well during my stay."

In no time, Urie arrived with a sizable tray and placed it beside me on the bench by the lake.

Removing the cover, Urie presented, "Here you go, young miss. Please, enjoy."

I beheld a whole pie and a jug of water, accompanied by a glass cup.

Picking up the knife placed there, Urie offered to cut the pie, but I insisted on doing it myself. As I sliced into it, the aroma was heavenly. Turning to Urie, I inquired, "What's this made of?"

"It's an apple pie, young miss," Urie replied.

With a smile, I exclaimed, "It's amazing! Would you like a piece, Urie?"

Urie looked surprised and hesitated, saying, "I couldn't possibly take away your meal."

I rolled my eyes playfully and cut a slice, urging, "Sit beside me and help me finish it."

Urie's smile grew, and she complied with my request. Despite feeling a bit melancholic about my sisters leaving, I reminded myself it was only until next year. In the meantime, I resolved to make the most of my time here.