Mushoku Tensei: The Mad Witch's Magical Redemption

As the birthday celebration came, the Boreas Household was bustling with activity. Servants rush back and forth, setting up the grand ballroom with lavish flourishes, ornate chandeliers, and a massive banquet table adorned with delicacies.

Nobles and dignitaries from within and outside of the Asura Kingdom arrive at our location in luxurious carriages, all entering the household while gossiping about the magnificence of the birthday celebration.

At least, that's what I heard while being dressed by a team of beast maids. They fussed over my appearance, fitting me in a custom-tailored gown with frills and embroidery while altering my hairstyle into a ponytail with ornaments.

"Someone looks ready for the occasion."

"Indeed, she was."

Two voices complimented me, prompting me to turn around. I realized it was Philip and Hilda entering the changing room, looking astonished by my appearance.

"Oh, thank you," I replied, accepting their praise graciously.

 Philip smiled favorably, satisfied with my response. "Remember to carry yourself with grace during the celebration so people will associate with you more easily."

"That's right," Hilda concurred, adjusting a loose strand of my hair. "Be polite and considerate to make a good impression on the guests."

I nodded, committing their advice to memory. As we exchanged words, the calm atmosphere was shattered by an unexpected intrusion.

SLAM!

"WHERE'S MY PRECIOUS GRANDDAUGHTER?!"

The door swung open, and Sauros burst into the room, his boisterous voice reverberating off the walls. A few startled maids rushed to restrain him, attempting to calm his exuberance.

"I'm over here, Grandfather," I responded, giving away my position.

He spotted me immediately, his face lighting up with affection as he marched over. "Ah, there you are! You look so radiant—it's as if my late wife has been reborn!"

"That sounds quite a compliment," I remarked wearily. "Thank you, Grandfather."

With that lightened mood, the Boreas members and I were escorted to the ballroom where a crowd of nobles waiting for us.

"Everyone, thank you for coming!" Sauros welcomed loudly. "Today is the 10th birthday of my granddaughter, Eris! We've prepared lots of appetizing food from all over the Asura kingdom, so please feel free to enjoy yourselves!"

After his announcement, the crowd applauded and they fell in line, eager to greet me.

"Happy birthday, young lady."

"Thank you, good sir."

One by one, the nobles performed their curtsy and I followed up with precise effort. Some of them were quite fond of how I responded courteously, but others were suspicious, struggling to reconcile my current behavior with the fiery Eris they once knew.

 "Now, time for the main event!" Sauros lively announced. "If you want to gain favor from me, just take my granddaughter's hand!"

His statement made me tense up and I could feel the intense gazes of the noble boys, willing to gamble for my hand. What should I do now?

-----------------------------------------

[Rudeus' POV]

So, this is it then. The moment Eris takes the floor with someone who fits the expectations of a noble lady's first dance—a noble boy with the status to match hers. It's only natural.

Still, I couldn't help but feel a pang of... something. Jealousy? Regret? Or possibly it was just the thought of all the effort we'd poured into perfecting those dance steps together, only to stand by and watch her use those efforts with a more significant individual.

"If you want to gain favor from me, just take my granddaughter's hand!"

Sauros' booming declaration echoed across the ballroom, setting the scene in motion. Noble boys adjusted their cravats, their eyes gleaming with ambition. One particular noble gestured for his son to step forward, practically pushing him toward the spotlight.

"Hold on just a second, Grandfather."

Before the noble boy could move forward, Eris suddenly spoke, calling out to Sauros. All eyes turned to her as she stood, looking tense yet determined.

"What is it, Eris?" asked Sauros, his face marked with confusion.

She swept her gaze across the room, pausing long enough to ensure everyone was listening to her. Then with calm clarity, she expressed what was in her mind.

"Would it be so nice if I do the honor of choosing my dance partner?"

Her words caused a wave of surprise through the room. Nobles gossiped among themselves, some intrigued, others scandalized. A few of the more seasoned aristocrats smirked willfully as if amused by the audacity of her proposal.

"Choosing your partner, you say?" Sauros asked, his voice tinged with a blend of amusement and bewilderment. "Could you explain yourself in front of the guests?"

She hesitated momentarily, showing a flicker of tension across her face. But she immediately recovered, taking a deep breath and steeling herself.

"Since it is my birthday, I should have some freedom to decide, right?"

The murmuring intensified, and the crowd of nobles seemingly divided between admiration and resentment. Some viewed her as brave and progressive, while others whispered about insolence unbecoming of a young lady.

"Gwahahaha!" Sauros chuckled, his booming laugh silencing the noisy mutterings. "Well said, my granddaughter! If that is your wish, then so be it. Who will you choose?"

Eris' eyes brightened up and she turned, scanning the room. My breath hastened as her eyes briefly passed over me, but I quickly dismissed the thought. Surely, she'd pick someone more appropriate like a mature and handsome noble boy from a prestigious family.

But then, Eris did the unexpected.

She walked right straight at me.

The only sound I could hear was the faint echoes of her footsteps. As she stopped in front of me, the guests faded into the background while her gaze was mostly focused.

"Rudeus," she called out, her voice seemed sincere but tinged with something I couldn't quite identify. "Would you do me the honor of being my first dance partner?"

The room collectively gasped. The nobles' murmurs turned to complete astonishment, some shocked, others intrigued by the unfolding drama.

My heart pounded as I gazed at her, surprised. For a moment, I wasn't sure if I was dreaming but I managed to nod and respond with a shaky voice.

"It would be my honor, milady."

Her lips curved into a small smile—genuine, warm, and fleeting. She extended her hand, and I took it, my fingers trembling slightly as they wrapped around hers.

Together, we walked to the center of the ballroom, the crowd parting around us like land and water. The music began playing, and with it, we started to dance.

------------------------------------

[MC's POV]

I did it. I finally did it. 

Convincing Sauros to let me choose my dance partner was easier than I had thought. Sure, it probably affected Eris' reputation as a proper young lady but... meh. It was a risk I was willing to take if it meant I could choose Rudeus over the noble boys wanting my attention.

Honestly, I couldn't even explain why I was compelled. It felt like an invisible force was urging me to walk in his direction and ask for his consent to dance with me.

Now, here in the center of the ballroom, the musicians played their instruments to signal the beginning of our performance. Rudeus and I locked eyes briefly before moving in unison.

Our first steps were planned, each movement flowing into the next. The sways of our bodies matched the rhythm perfectly, and when we transitioned into twirls, it felt virtually natural—effortless, even.

As the music swelled, so did our movements, transitioning into more complicated steps we'd practiced countless times. However, I have some minor difficulties with these steps so much so I almost tripped. Luckily, Rudeus managed to catch me in time, saving me from disgrace.

"Are you okay, Eris?" he asked softly, his concern evident.

I chuckled lightly, brushing it off. "Just a little trouble with this part."

"In that case, let's use the routine we made," he whispered steadily.

Ah right, the routine. During the practice, Rudeus and I had come up with a contingency plan for instances like this. All it took was a subtle cue—him giving a wink—to signal me to pause momentarily, allowing him to guide me to the next step.

This plan replicated the sensation of predicting a faint attack from sword training, which was brilliant, considering I copied it from the novel. It felt oddly satisfying to employ that concept here, blending the realm of combat with the elegance of dancing.

Anyway, Rudeus and I continued our dance, approaching its pivotal finish. We managed most of the difficult steps, all thanks to Rudeus' subtle signals and our team effort.

The gasps and murmurs from the audience faded into the background. All I could think about was Rudeus and this particular moment. My heart skipped a beat whenever he met my gaze and winked to signal the next step, acknowledging how sharp and composed he looked.

Was he always this attractive, or was it just me? Wait, what am I thinking?

Shaking off the intrusive thoughts, I concentrated on finishing the routine. We ended it with a sensational twirl, returning to our starting point. As the final note of the music faded, we both bowed in unison, marking the conclusion of our performance.

The crowd went silent for a moment, their astonished expressions reflecting the result of our dance performance. But then, like the first drop of rain from a static pond, a single clap broke through the silence. One after another, the ballroom erupted into a cascade of applause.

"Who would have thought Lady Eris could dance with such grace?"

"I know, right? And who was that boy with her?"

Murmurs swept through the audience, blending with the ovation as nobles exchanged subtle remarks about my newfound elegance while others speculated about Rudeus' identity.

"GYAHAHAHA! WHAT A GLORIOUS PERFORMANCE!"

Before I could further investigate the gossip, Sauros suddenly swept both Rudeus and me off our feet, hoisting us onto his broad shoulders. His booming laughter echoed through the hall as he paraded us triumphantly across the ballroom.

"GIVE MY GRANDDAUGHTER ANOTHER ROUND OF APPLAUSE!"

While Sauros encouraged the crowd, I turned my attention to Rudeus himself. Both of us met gazes, acknowledging each other's presence. Just looking at his face made me feel assured, thankful, and comfortable. So much so, I couldn't help but smile genuinely.

Why do I feel this way whenever I look at Rudeus?

Ba-dump

Ah... I like him.

-----------------------------------------

As the applause eventually subsided, the celebration shifted into a grand feast. Lavish tables were filled to the brim with an abundance of meals—roasted meats, delicate pastries, and an array of colorful desserts.

Rudeus and I found ourselves sitting together, plates filled with everything we could manage to grab. He seemed content, and focused on his meal, while I struggled to keep my thoughts of our dance and the sudden clarity of my feelings from resurfacing.

"Enjoying yourselves, you two?"

A familiar voice snapped me out of my thoughts, causing me to look up. It was Edna and she approached us with a proud smile on her face.

"Miss Edna," I greeted, a little flustered. "Yes, we're having a great time."

"I'm glad to hear that." She glanced at Rudeus, who was mid-bite, then turned her attention back to me. "You've certainly surprised everyone tonight, Lady Eris. That was a bold choice, asking Lord Rudeus to dance."

Her words made my cheeks flush deeply.

"W-well, it just... felt right," I stammered, averting my eyes.

Edna chuckled at my response, clearly amused. But before she could continue, I saw a group of noble boys approaching our table. Their expressions were tinged with contempt, and they seemed oddly determined.

"Can we help you, gentlemen?" I asked, wondering what their problem was. 

The head of the group, an arrogant-looking blonde boy, stepped forward. "I demand to know why you insisted on choosing your dance partner."

This again? What a bother.

"Eris, let me handle this," Rudeus offered, but I stopped him before facing the problem.

"I did it because I want to," I responded casually. "Why does that upset you?"

"The Feudal Lord originally offered us your hand to gain his favor," said the blonde boy, "But you had the nerve to voice your suggestion, robbing us of that opportunity."

Hearing his complaints made me uncomfortable and annoyed. Sure, I took away their chance to dance with me but it was not something you would complain about.

"And one more thing, why did you choose that boy?" He pointed at Rudeus. "He doesn't look like a noble at all."

His statement made me lose my patience, but I kept my composure intact.

"First of all, it's my birthday—I get to decide what I want. Secondly, I chose Rudeus because I trust him the most. Lastly, he's my cousin, which makes him as much a noble as any of you."

The blonde boy faltered, his confidence shaken. His companions exchanged uneasy glances, unsure of how to proceed. Beside me, Rudeus was stunned, likely by my declaration of trust.

"Excuse me, Lord Rudeus~"

Suddenly, I heard several female voices calling out to Rudeus. Glancing in the direction of the noise, I saw a group of noble girls fawning at him.

"How old are you?"

"What are your hobbies?"

Flustered and overwhelmed, Rudeus flushed under their attention. My annoyance flared, but before I could intervene, another voice entered the fray.

"Rudeus, it'd be troublesome if you stand out too much," Philip remarked slyly, observing the scene. "But since it is a special day, I'll allow it. Just remember if you take them in bed, make sure to use proper precautions."

The comment made Rudeus smile perversely, earning him a sharp pinch to the ear from me.

"Ow, ow! Eris! That hurts!" he cried out in pain.

I let go of his ear, but still mad for some reason. "Hmph, dummy."

"As for you boys," Philip continued, turning his attention to the blonde boy's group. "I suggest all of you watch your tongues, or else I'll have you all kicked out of the venue." 

The blonde boy gulped, finally knowing his place. However, I felt bad for him for not having to dance even once. Looking at the girls still swarming at Rudeus, I immediately had an idea.

"Since you were yearning to dance with someone, how about if you take these lovely-looking ladies," I suggested calmly. "I'm sure they wouldn't mind sharing with your friends."

The girls exchanged hesitant glances, but as the blonde boy and his comrades straightened up, an air of reluctant agreement formed between the groups.

While they were distracted, I silently grabbed Rudeus and pulled him out of the room. I also waved Edna goodbye and gestured for Ghislaine to come with us on the way out.

------------------------------------------

Once Rudeus and I escaped, we went to his room, Ghislaine tailing behind us. As we stepped inside, my eyes were instantly drawn to the increased number of stone figurines exhibited on his table and drawer. Curiosity got the better of me, and I moved closer to inspect them.

"Ahem."

Behind me, I heard Rudeus clear his throat. Turning back, I saw him standing calmly with his hands hidden behind his back.

"I got something for you, Eris," he said, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

Tilting my head, I asked, "What is it?"

"Come over here and sit next to Ghislaine," he instructed, gesturing with his free hand.

I glanced at our ever-reliable bodyguard, who was seated cross-legged on the floor. She met my gaze and there was not a single thought behind those eyes, just happy to be included.

Following Rudeus' instruction, I sat next to Ghislaine. Only then did Rudeus finally reveal what he had been hiding behind his back—a pair of magic wands.

"Eris, this one is for you," he said while handing me one.

Observing the beautiful red jewel on the tip, I smiled genuinely. "Thank you, Rudeus. I'll take good care of this fine present."

"Glad you like it," he replied, showing his smile. "It took me a while to find the right materials to make these myself. Here, Ghislaine, this one is yours."

She calmly accepted the other wand. "I gratefully accept this, Master Rudeus."

Seeing Ghislaine's serene and compliant expression is a breath of fresh air. I wondered if she would give me a present. Not like it mattered since I already had one from Rudeus.

"What is it, Milady?" she asked, noticing my gaze.

Shaking my head, I responded, "It's nothing."

"I think she's expecting a gift from Ghislaine," said Rudeus, chuckling softly.

Wait, that's not what I meant.

Before I could correct Rudeus, Ghislaine removed something from her finger and handed it to me. Accepting it, I realized it was a golden ring with intricate patterns.

"That is an amulet that has been passed down in my family," Ghislaine explained. "It was said that if you wear it, wicked men won't attack you at night."

"Are you sure you're going to give this to me?" I asked apprehensively.

She nodded calmly. "Yes, it's just a superstition."

With that assurance, I put on the ring she gave me right next to the reconnaissance ring we'd bought months ago.

"I'll cherish it along with the wand," I declared, ensuring the significance of both gifts.

Rudeus seemed satisfied hearing that remark before turning to Ghislaine. "By the way, what do you mean by superstition?"

"Oh... One night, I couldn't sleep," she narrated, realizing it was this moment. "Paul came and invited me for a swim in the—"

"Wait, no need to continue," I intervened, knowing exactly where this was going.

Ghislaine and Rudeus were shaken by my words but we laughed it off and resumed chatting with each other in the end.