Hana stood just inside the study doors, watching the northern delegates sip tea and exchange polite words. Her small hands were clasped nervously in front of her, and her heart thumped wildly.
Focus, Seraphina whispered inside her mind. I will guide you. Let your hands, posture, and words follow my instructions.
Hana nodded silently. Okay… I can do this.
Good. Step forward—slowly. Shoulders back. Chin up.
Hana obeyed. Her movements felt clumsy at first, but Seraphina's guidance smoothed every hesitation. Each step became deliberate, elegant, and confident.
Now, greet them. Voice soft but commanding.
Hana opened her mouth:
"Good morning… My… My Lords."
Lower the pitch slightly. Relax the shoulders. Smile lightly.
Hana adjusted mid-sentence.
"Good morning, My Lords."
The delegates looked up, pleasantly surprised. One even inclined his head slightly.
Excellent. Now respond to their questions as I direct you. Listen carefully, then answer exactly as I instruct.
The first delegate leaned forward.
"My Lady, I wonder if the proposed silk shipment can be expedited this month?"
Hana froze for a split second. She could feel Seraphina's calm presence filling the space, nudging her mind.
Reply slowly. Confidence. Begin with acknowledgment.
"…I… see. You wish the silk shipment to arrive sooner this month?" Hana repeated, her voice slightly high but clear.
Good. Now explain the reasoning. Keep it firm yet polite.
Hana continued, guided by Seraphina:
"The schedule accounts for safe transport and proper quality control. Adjusting it may risk damage. However, I have instructed my staff to optimize the preparation so that it can depart a week earlier, without compromising quality."
The delegate's eyebrows rose in surprise.
"Remarkable… That is… acceptable."
Hana blinked. I said that?
Yes. You are speaking, but I am steering the words.
A second delegate tried a different approach.
"Your Ladyship, the northern border patrols have reported increased thefts near the forest edge. How does your estate intend to handle security?"
Calm. Logical. Reassuring.
Hana nodded subtly and said:
"Our patrols will increase vigilance, and all visitors will be logged. Any suspicious activity will be reported immediately. I assure you that the border remains secure."
The delegates murmured in approval. Hana could feel Seraphina's pride in her mind, soft but unmistakable.
Now, respond to the final question. Make it concise, yet authoritative.
The tallest delegate asked:
"Do you foresee any issues with next month's grain trade?"
Hana's mind raced slightly, but Seraphina's guidance slowed her thoughts. She spoke smoothly:
"None anticipated. Contracts have been reviewed, transport routes secured, and storage prepared. Any adjustments will be communicated promptly."
The delegates nodded, impressed. One leaned toward another, whispering something Hana didn't catch.
Excellent. You have maintained composure and authority throughout.
Hana let out a quiet breath. That… was actually… fun?
Do not mistake my guidance for ease. You must still learn precision, judgment, and poise. But today, you did well.
Hana smiled nervously. Thanks… Seraphina.
The delegates began to stand, preparing to leave. Hana bowed lightly, careful to keep her movements elegant and dignified, as Seraphina instructed.
Remember posture until the last step.
"…Goodbye… My Lords. Safe travels," Hana said, her voice steady and polite.
As the doors closed behind the visitors, Hana finally relaxed, leaning against the wall.
"…I did it… And no disasters!"
Correct. Seraphina's inner voice sounded almost approving, faintly amused. You followed guidance well, and the guests never suspected anything unusual.
Hana grinned, a little triumphant.
"…I guess I can do this… if you help me."
Yes.
Hana's eyes drifted to the empty hallway outside the study. For the first time, she felt a sense of confidence—not full mastery, but the beginning of it.
With Seraphina guiding her, she realized that maybe she could handle this adult world… step by step, mistake by mistake, learning to grow in the villainess's body she now called home.