Hana stood in front of the grand doors of the estate's main hall, her small hands trembling slightly.
Inside, the northern delegates had arrived. She could hear the faint murmur of voices and polished footsteps on marble floors.
"…I don't know if I can do this," Hana whispered.
You cannot, Seraphina's calm voice replied in her mind. At least, not properly.
Hana's eyes widened. "…Wait… what do you mean?"
Let me take control. Just for this meeting. You can watch and learn.
Hana hesitated. The thought of giving up control of the body made her stomach twist. But… she trusted Seraphina.
"…Okay," she whispered. "Go ahead."
The sensation was immediate. Hana felt her awareness stay the same, but her body shifted as Seraphina took the reins.
Her posture straightened instantly. Shoulders back, chin lifted, eyes sharp yet welcoming. The nervous energy Hana had felt moments ago vanished.
Good. Now watch and learn, Seraphina said calmly.
The doors opened with a flourish. Hana's—no, Seraphina's—silken dress rustled with each step. The delegates, tall men in fine coats, straightened immediately, eyes widening slightly at the imposing presence of the estate head.
Seraphina's voice rang out, smooth and commanding:
"Welcome to Seraphina Estate. I am honored by your visit."
Hana blinked. Wow… her voice sounds… perfect.
The delegates bowed, murmuring polite greetings.
One spoke first, a tall man with a neatly trimmed beard.
"We are grateful for your hospitality, My Lady. Your estate is… magnificent."
Seraphina inclined her head slightly, her teal eyes scanning them critically but without harshness.
"Thank you. I hope your journey was comfortable. Please, let me know if anything requires attention."
Hana's mind raced as she watched. She… she's doing this perfectly!
The delegates began discussing trade agreements and border tariffs, the kinds of topics Hana had tried to understand just yesterday.
Seraphina responded with calm precision, answering questions before they were even fully asked, guiding the conversation toward agreements favorable to the estate without offending the visitors. Each word, gesture, and smile was calculated yet natural.
Hana marveled. This is… like magic.
One delegate leaned forward, lowering his voice slightly.
"Your Ladyship, I hope I am not overstepping, but may I suggest a revision to the timber allocation?"
Seraphina's response was gentle yet firm.
"Your concern is noted. I have already considered all factors, including seasonal growth and trade balance. The current allocation ensures fairness and sustainability. I trust you will find it acceptable."
The delegate nodded slowly, impressed.
"Of course, My Lady. Your wisdom is… remarkable."
Hana's eyes went wide. W-wow… that's exactly how I would have panicked!
Seraphina continued smoothly through the discussion, handling each question, concern, and subtle challenge without missing a beat. Hana could feel herself learning—how Seraphina anticipated objections, steered conversations, and exuded authority without ever raising her voice.
After a few minutes, Seraphina's gaze softened slightly.
"And now, please, allow me to show you our estate gardens. The spring blooms are at their peak."
The delegates nodded politely and followed her lead. Hana watched in awe as Seraphina guided the tour, gesturing elegantly, explaining details, and answering every question with grace.
Finally, Seraphina stepped aside, returning control to Hana. The shift felt strange—suddenly, the nervousness returned, and Hana's small frame seemed even more noticeable.
"…Okay," Hana whispered to herself, straightening as best she could. "I think… I think I learned a lot."
Indeed. Seraphina's calm voice resonated in her mind. You witnessed strategy, authority, and poise. One day, you may be able to emulate it yourself.
Hana swallowed, still staring at the receding delegates.
"…One day… yeah. I hope so."
For the first time, she felt the weight—and the potential—of being Seraphina.