@Introvert So
Spoiler!
Leo quickly disagreed. She thanked Varya and said that both she and Phileo had only come this far because of her help. At first, Varya dismissed the praise, but Phileo explained that she had saved Ardea when his research room was attacked. Because Ardea escaped safely to the North, Phileo was able to realize that the Emperor was secretly targeting the North. This discovery allowed him to prepare his own plans against the Emperor. Phileo told Varya that he had known her for five years and sincerely believed that without her actions, he would have faced serious difficulties. Leo jokingly added that her father would have been extremely annoyed. Even Phileo admitted that he was only human and could not predict everything. Sometimes unexpected events happened, and he simply dealt with them when they came. At that moment, Varya remembered something Phileo had said to her before: that none of this would have been possible without her. She finally understood that he truly meant it. Her efforts had not been wasted. She had genuinely helped him, and realizing this made her heart race with happiness. Seeing the growing emotional tension between them, Leo changed the subject. She asked what they would do now that the imperial palace was preparing to make its move against the North. Phileo playfully flicked Leo’s nose, and after a brief teasing exchange, he gave his answer. Calm and confident as always, he said that they would simply prepare to welcome their guests. In other words, they were ready for whatever the Emperor planned to do next.
✕Leo tells Upicleia that she has to return to the North because winter is coming, and everyone must prepare to hunt monsters. Upicleia becomes sad because she doesn't want Leo to leave. Leo cheers her up by giving her a cookie, and Pinu also asks for one. Soon, Ploemus says she will also be leaving because her father is worried about the deer in their land. Upicleia and Pinu are disappointed that both of their friends are leaving. The four children spend time talking about simple things like their favorite snacks and games. Then Upicleia suddenly asks if Duke Borreoti's girlfriend is staying at the mansion. She admits that she once had a crush on the duke, making everyone laugh. Ploemus and the others become curious and ask if they can meet the duke's girlfriend. Leo happily agrees and goes to bring Varya. When Varya arrives, the children are amazed by how beautiful and gentle she is. They ask her many embarrassing questions about Duke Borreoti such as how they met, why she likes him, and when they will get married. Blushing, Varya honestly says that the first thing she liked about Phileo was his muscles. Leo proudly says that she was the one who made Varya appreciate muscles. The children laugh and start sharing the things they like, such as deer, swords, money, and muscles. Varya gets along with them very naturally, and Leo is relieved to see everyone becoming friends. After the children leave, Leo tells Varya that she is very good with kids. Varya sadly says she used to have a younger sister, Lota, but feels their relationship was one-sided because she always gave everything to her while receiving little love in return. Leo says that the real problem was their parents, who spoiled Lota and never taught her right from wrong. Varya quietly admits that her parents were not good at raising their children. Leo then comforts Varya by saying that the Borreoti family truly cares about her.
I like to post spoilers for the stories I find interesting because I don't have much time to read novel due to busy schedule you will find me in most romantic historical manhwa comment sections
