Chapter 54 of Let Me Take That Envelope of Money based on the Korean text you provided:
The reasoning was that both Pennian and Bolani had already sworn loyalty to the future duchess.
“I heard His Grace declared he would never marry anyone but this woman…”
“An iris ornament in her hair, a lapis lazuli key at her neck, and even a Red Peril ring on her left ring finger. He’s practically advertising that she’s the future duchess.”
“After rejecting every other young lady out there… even his eyes are different this time, completely different.”
It was the first time Elkius had danced in an official setting, and the sweetness in his eyes as he looked at his partner was impossible to miss.
No one could mistake it—this wasn’t some fake brought in to upset the Grand Madam, but someone he truly loved and cherished.
“It’s well known that the men of House Rudian are devoted to their chosen partner…”
“The Grand Madam seems to have acknowledged her too. In the end, that young lady will surely become the future duchess.”
The vassals all came to the same conclusion.
“We should make a good impression on the future duchess.”
“We can’t look down on her just because she’s of common birth.”
Why else would she be dressed head to toe in Rudian’s symbols for her first formal introduction?
It was a warning—if they didn’t accept her as the future duchess, there would be no leniency.
“Could the loyalty oath from Marquis Pennian and Count Bolani have been influenced by His Grace as well?”
“Both are elderly and close to retirement… He may have given them something in return for devoting their remaining political years to the future duchess.”
And if that were the case—
“…I want a piece of that pie too!”
His intentions were so clear there was no reason to hesitate.
The moment the duke’s family finished their dance and the banquet truly began, the vassals rushed to the duke and the future duchess.
“An honor to meet you for the first time, my lady. I oversee the mining and crafting operations at Magwang Mountain…”
“I handle trade in Quintana, located at the westernmost edge of the duchy…”
“I’m the head of the Fennington Guard…”
“Sheep ranching…”
“Coconut plantation…”
“Territory inspector…”
Anyone else might have been flustered by the sudden flood of people, but Airy remained composed and calm.
Part of it was thanks to Marquis Pennian and Count Bolani, who stood beside her and intercepted visitors at the right moments, but much was her own effort.
“I’ve heard Quintana is the second largest trading port in the empire. I understand there are regular routes to other continents?”
“You’re the captain of the guard? I’ve been wanting to thank you—I can walk at night without fear thanks to your men.”
“If it’s the sheep ranch at Ruta Pass… Of course I’ve heard of it. Ruta’s wool is the most famous. I’m told even my blanket is made from your wool.”
Whenever a vassal introduced themselves and their work, Airy nodded and made at least a small show of familiarity.
Everyone knew she was of common birth and had only recently entered the duke’s mansion.
With such low expectations, the vassals would have been content with perfunctory greetings—but they were pleasantly surprised by her sincerity.
“At least she doesn’t seem like she’ll disrupt the atmosphere by relying only on His Grace’s favor.”
“Not that she’s the type to be stopped by His Grace anyway… The important thing now is continuing the Rudian line.”
Of course, not everyone thought so. Some still couldn’t accept that a commoner could become duchess.
But they dared not voice it—Elkius stayed at Airy’s side like a guard dog, eyes blazing.
Like a watchdog indeed.
If anyone was throwing their weight around here, it was Elkius himself.
—Smile. Don’t ruin the mood.
Even the slightest frown from her earned a glare sharp enough to be laced with curses. So what could she do but smile?
“Ha ha ha!”
“Ho ho ho!”
Thanks to that, the outward atmosphere was perfect. It helped that Veronica was happily chatting with children her own age.
“Everyone, try this chocolate! It tastes like strawberries!”
“You’re right, Lady Veronica—it’s adorable too.”
“Try this sugar candy! It melts right in your mouth.”
For Veronica and all the other children, this was their first banquet.
Their giggles and laughter never stopped.
The sparkling chandelier, the paintings and flower arrangements on every wall and pillar, the tiny tables and chairs for children with miniature teacups and cutlery…
Dressed in fine suits and dresses, they mimicked the adults and enjoyed the banquet without being told to.
No one knew who started it, but soon every child was raising their teacup with a perfectly straight pinky finger. The adults had to suppress their laughter.
“By the way, my lady, your dress is so beautiful today.”
“Right? I designed it myself! The big ribbon at the waist was inspired by the divine beast!”
Veronica jumped up and spun around the table, making the large ribbon on her back flutter like butterfly wings.
“It’s so pretty, my lady!”
“I want to wear a dress with a big ribbon next time too!”
“Really? Then I’ll design one that suits you!”
Playing with her peers, Veronica looked truly happy.
From a distance, the Grand Madam thought she was glad she hadn’t stopped Airy’s idea of inviting children.
If this keeps up… the banquet will end successfully.
After all, she had arranged the overall framework of the event herself.
Everyone knew it, but the credit would ultimately go to Airy—since, as the mistress of Iris Hall, she was the official host.
No doubt she wore iris flowers and a lapis key to underline that point.
Cunning and shrewd indeed. The gentle, innocent face only made her seem more insidious.
The Grand Madam disliked Airy. If she could, she’d have thrown her out immediately.
But—
…Something’s off.
After a successful first dance, Vanessa danced twice more with Adrian.
After that, she stayed seated as if exhausted, but looked radiantly happy chatting with him by her side.
And Veronica, meeting so many friends her age for the first time, was all smiles.
“…”
The Grand Madam’s gaze moved to Elkius, standing beside Airy.
“I heard you were merciful to my wife after her recent rudeness. As her husband, I thank you for your generosity, my lady.”
“Hmph, just words? A man with your wealth should have brought something big and shiny if he wanted to show thanks. Don’t you agree?”
“That’s not necessary! Your apology that day was more than enough. It’s as if it never happened for me, so please, no more apologies.”
“My fiancée has such a beautiful heart.”
Elkius’s face was open and honest as he looked at Airy—so comfortable and at ease.
But then, perhaps feeling her gaze, Elkius turned toward the Grand Madam. In an instant, all expression vanished from his face.
With a polite smile, he gave her a slight nod.
The Grand Madam felt her face flush and turned away.
How insolent! Ungrateful, when I’m the one who gave you life!
In a fit of anger, she drained the glass in her hand in one gulp.
“Ugh!”
The sudden burn of alcohol sent a sharp pain stabbing through her temples.
“Haa… haaa…”
Leaning back in her chair, she caught her breath and gestured for someone to come over.
“Yes, my lady. Do you have an order?”
“…Why are you here? Where’s Olvia?”
A thought flashed through her mind. Could it be…?
Sure enough—
“She stepped outside the Queen Rose Hall a short while ago… Wasn’t it at your order, my lady?”
