Episode 1

My name is Ema Binttercy, and I live on the outskirts of the Watezen Palace. Our kingdom is thriving and picturesque, thanks to my father, or so he always claims. My father is a significant figure in the realm, Duke Castiel Binttercy, owner of the most beautiful vineyards in the region.

My life is quite delightful, except for the part where I'm expected to marry, of course. Lately, my parents have been pressing me on this minor detail of my life, perhaps because of my age. It's been several months since I came of age, and not a single gentleman has presented himself for courtship. Well, in truth, some have indeed come forward, but none caught my eye. I'm aware of the reputation of most, and I can assure you it's not one to be desired.

Papa always says he won't sell me off like most families here do when their daughters turn seventeen. The parents choose whom she will wed, typically older gentlemen with substantial wealth to benefit the girl's family. Thank God my parents are different. But don't think it's an easy task to find someone to my liking; everyone is interested in my inheritance, so I'd rather remain single.

As usual, I dress and descend for our family breakfast. My parents are already at the table, as are my sisters, Helionor and Clenir, the twins who are two years younger than me.

"Good morning," I say while descending the stairs.

"Good morning, my daughter."

"Good morning, sunshine."

After asking for their blessings, I sit down and begin to eat.

"So, my daughter, how was your night?" asks Papa.

"It was ordinary, Papa."

"Hmm, I see. Perhaps you should come with me to the castle today."

"For what?"

"Well, I..."

"Are you going to the castle, Papa?" Clenir interrupts him.

"Yes, I am going to address some matters concerning our lands. You may accompany me if you wish, Ema."

"Hmm, no thank you."

"What?! You don’t want to go to the castle, my daughter?"

"No."

"But you always enjoyed accompanying me."

"That was before I knew your real intentions, Papa."

"And what might those be?" he asks with a cynical expression.

"To introduce me to suitors!"

He lets out a long sigh, realizing I’ve uncovered his elaborate schemes.

"My daughter knows she needs a husband!"

"Papa! You said just yesterday you would not pressure me anymore!"

"But my daughter, your father is right; you wouldn't want to end up like your aunt, an old maid!"

"Mama, honestly, that’s an exaggeration!"

"Let her be. If she doesn't want to, I do!" Helionor chimes in.

"Not you, child. It’s not your turn to have suitors. Can you imagine? You’d be scandalized!"

"But it's only two years away!"

"Two years is a long time; your focus now should be on your music studies!"

"I can’t stand being stuck in that room any longer! I want no more lessons."

"Don't be ill-mannered, Helionor! Look at your sister; she also detested the piano, but in time, she became an accomplished pianist," my mother says, looking at me with pride.

"She is her, and I am me; I will never come to like playing that contraption!"

"Where did I go wrong…" Papa laments, resting his head in his hands.

"Don't be like that, Papa!"

"How can I not be? Look around!"

"Alright, you win! I will go to the Palace with you, Papa."

"Excellent! I'll help you choose your dress, my flower," Mama says, standing up, excited.

I know all this drama is just a ploy to make me sympathize and accompany him, but a trip to the Palace won't do me any harm.

Ema Binttercy

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