Looks are deceiving

"Mother, I know you like Miss Noelle, but I don't."

The queen stood before Francis, an elegant and kind woman who was well-known for supporting commoners whenever she could.

"Why not? I believe Miss Noelle has great potential to be the heir."

"No way! Have you heard how she treats her sister?"

"Mmm... oh! You mean that whiny little girl? Miss Noelle can be straightforward in her words, that's all. That girl named Odette is nothing more than a spoiled child who thinks tears can solve everything."

"What? Mother, how can you say that?"

"Francis, that girl may be pretty, but you can't be swayed by that alone. Miss Noelle corrects her because her behavior is that of a five-year-old baby. She is eleven and doesn't even know the most basic etiquettes."

Francis remained silent. It was true that her behavior was different, but she was still a child. Francis couldn't understand that at eleven, one must already know how to behave in high society or risk bringing shame upon their family. Francis left his mother's palace, feeling a bit upset that his mother supported that rude girl. Soon, he stopped in his tracks as he saw a boy with black hair and red eyes pass by. His gaze was stern, but when he glanced at Francis, he gave a slight nod. Francis approached him.

"Young Raizel, welcome. It's been a while. What brings you here?"

"Your Highness, nice to see you again. My father came to meet with the king, and I decided to take a walk. By the way, I heard they already have a future bride for you."

"Don't talk to me about that. I don't like that girl; she's arrogant and rude."

"That's a pity for you. That's why I won't marry; I prefer to have many girls around me."

"Young Raizel, your father would never allow such a thing."

"Since when do you think I listen to my father? As long as I do my job, I don't need to get married."

"You're quite confident, but good luck. If you manage to avoid marriage, I'll congratulate you."

Francis left as he had classes to attend. Raizel continued on his way, walking until he saw a beautiful albino girl stepping down from a carriage. She carried on without waiting for her father, who scolded her.

"Sorry, father, but there's knight training today. I want to watch."

"Noelle, those things aren't meant for girls."

"Father, you know I like to stay in shape. Besides, the queen is busy, so I can't drop by to say hello."

"Fine, go ahead, but don't take too long. I only came to make a delivery."

The little girl looked beautiful in an elegant white dress that matched her hair. Raizel couldn't help but stare at her. As he overheard her destination, he followed closely. The knights greeted the girl with excitement; she seemed to be well-known. Raizel smiled, but he had to leave as his father had finished his meeting.

"Miss Noelle, our comrades still don't believe that you're an extraordinary girl."

"Of course, they don't. I'm small and a child."

"So what? Are you afraid she'll be better than you?"

"Hey! Don't be arrogant, girl."

"Don't underestimate me. Your friends did the same and were surprised."

Laughter erupted at her words, but suddenly silence filled the air when that huge man flew backwards, crashing into the wall as Noelle extended her hand into a fist. The newcomers were astonished by the strength of this little girl, while those who already knew Noelle laughed heartily at seeing their comrade sprawled against the wall.

"The worst thing a soldier can do is underestimate their enemy, no matter how they may appear. For example, me—I'm not just a little girl."

Having said that, Noelle apologized as she had to leave. Her father must be waiting for her in the carriage.

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