Clette began to see Tita in a different light. She had thought he was a spineless crybaby because of the potion and frog incident earlier, but maybe because he is the male lead, there is an unexpected side to him. Clette had never thought that one day she would be discussing a fairy tale with Tita. This debate was the longest conversation she had with Tita ever since his arrival at the Winter Castle.

Do you like reading fairy books?

We have many fairy tale books in the library, you can read them whenever you feel bored.

Tita replied hesitantly to her offer.

I cant read yet.

You cannot do what yet?

I cant read yet, I dont know how.

Clette was, at this point, wondering just what was going on with the emperor. It was the norm for children of nobility to start their education at 5 years of age. No matter how indifferent the palace was towards Tita, he was still of royal blood. A child carrying the blood of the royal family not being taught how to read was a matter that boggled Clettes mind. The fact that the king had more than enough time to educate the prince and yet still decided to neglect him, almost made Clette swear out loud.

Ill teach you then.

What am I saying?

Clette was in shock, unable to believe what just came out of her mouth. Tita was in shock as well. He stared at her with wide eyes.

Are you serious, your grace?

Clette tried to be objective but no matter how hard she tried, she couldnt help but think that Titas eyes were a huge problem. Whenever she met his gaze, nonsense flowed out of her mouth. Feeling as though her pride was hurt, Clette desperately looked for an excuse explaining her weakness to Titas eyes; and soon she came up with a likely one. She was doing this to know how intelligent her future enemy was to be. Never let it be said that she did it for the childs sake.

Well, theres no way that I would soften because of a mere childs stare.

Do I look like the kind of person to lie about such things? Come to my workshop as soon as you wake up.

I will!, replied Tita eagerly.

You fool, what are you so excited for? Were not meeting up to play, but to study. It isnt something to like so much

Tita, despite the fact that he would start studying tomorrow, was full of smiles. Clette didnt know what was making him so happy and left his room thinking that children were an incomprehensible species.

***

Only

The next morning, as soon as the sun rose from its slumber, Clette had Tita arrive at the workshop

Sit there.

Tita carefully climbed and sat on the chair Clette had gestured at with her chin. The chair was made to fit Clette, who was much taller than Tita, so his short legs dangled in the air. The desk was also large for him.

This isnt good for his posture and wont help him concentrate at all.

With a flick of her finger, the chair and desk immediately shrank to match Titas size.

Woah!

Titas jaw dropped. To Clette, the magic she had just performed was only a basic spell, but to a child who knew nothing, it was earth-shattering.

Ohoho, was that so surprising kiddo? Should I show you something even better?