Chapter 6: Graceful Walk

““Okay, be natural! Don’t think about it!””

With my hands on my chin, I focused on things other than walking. My goal: walk in circles around my room.

What kind of lunch would I have in this world? Are there steaks here? As if I was thinking the answer to the meaning of life, I paced around the room.

To my surprise, it actually worked. My steps felt more fluid, less like I was marching in a parade. I took another lap around the room, this time switching between clockwise as Carine and counter-clockwise as Feyt.

Sure, it wasn't perfect, but I managed to complete a few laps without stumbling. Encouraged by my progress, I decided to up the challenge by randomly stopping as one while the other kept walking. I even experimented with quickening Carine's pace while slowing down Feyt's.

Jumping seemed like the next logical step, but I didn’t, realizing the potential noise could draw unwanted attention.

I wasn't exactly a master of simultaneous actions and dialogue yet. If someone came knocking, it’ll be the end of me. Best not to push my luck.

As I pondered my next move, the sound of carriage wheels crunching gravel outside of Carine’s window caught my attention.

Curiosity piqued, I made my way to the balcony and caught sight of a tall, regal woman in a tailored dress stepping out of the carriage, flanked by several maids of the house.

A gentle knock came on my door.

“My Lady, it is time for your etiquette lesson, Lady Maltine has arrived.”

Ah, right, that.

So, that woman was Lady Maltine. She looked every bit the epitome of professionalism, her demeanor so poised and exacting that it made my stomach churn.

Do I have to learn etiquette from her?

Living my life as Carine wouldn’t be so relaxing if I had to mind the way I talk, walk, and even eat. But, for some reason, I felt quite confident in the upcoming lesson, as if I had passed it several times with flying colors…

Oh wait, I did.

My past memories as Carine flooded in, reminding me of Lady Maltine’s lessons. From sitting to talking, waving, and don’t even get me started on eating. I remembered passing them all with flying colors as Carine, practically aced the aristocratic crash course.

But, now that I not only have my past memories but also two bodies to control, could I still pass them all? Had I messed up even once, Lady Maltine would knew something was off.

I took a breather to calm myself.

Okay, I can do this!

As I walked to the door, I stopped. I looked down and realized I was wearing my nightgown.

“Uhh…”

There was no way I could attend the etiquette lesson dressed like this!

I made my way to my excessively large wardrobe, frantically browsing through my clothes.

With Carine's memories guiding me, I had a vague notion of what would be appropriate attire for the lesson, but... could I manage to dress myself in it? I mean, I hadn’t been a girl until yesterday, technically. Could I even take off my underwear?

While I was worrying whether or not I knew how to undo a bra, another set of knocks came through the door.

“My Lady? Are you awake?”

“Y-yes, I’m awake.”

I opened the door for Leila. She looked at my open wardrobe and then looked at me.

“My Lady, may I be of assistance in your preparations?”

Her words felt like a comforting embrace, like a cavalry charging to my aid during my most desperate moments.

Wait, what am I thinking?

I nodded, trying to regain my composure. “Yes, that would be appreciated.”

Leila stepped into the room, closing the door behind her. Together, we approached the wardrobe. She pulled out a full-length mirror from behind the wardrobe and scanned through the clothes

After pondering for a moment, she picked a dress.

“Will this suffice, My Lady?” she said, holding the dress by the hems and hanger.

The dark blue dress was elegant yet subtle, with delicate lace accents adorning the neckline and sleeves. It was luxurious for sure, but not enough to wear at a party. The perfect balance between regal and comfortable.

“It’s perfect,” I said with confidence.

Leila nodded in agreement. Closing the wardrobe doors, Leila directed me to stand before the mirror. With her assistance, I removed my nightgown.

It was then I realized, standing in front of me was a girl in her underwear. As a man, I should be embarrassed at the sight, yet I felt nothing. It was odd.

Apparently, I didn’t even need to take off my underwear. I was worrying for nothing.

I easily slipped into the dress. It was soft and smooth to the touch. As Leila fastened the buttons and adjusted the hem, it tightened all around me, but not too tight.

Pulling out a hairbrush, Leila caressed my black hair gently, making sure it was tidy. Not a minute passed and we were done.

“Thank you, Leila,” I said softly.

“My pleasure, My Lady. Now, shall we make our way to the drawing room? Lady Maltine awaits.”

With a nod, I followed Leila out of the room.

Grateful for Leila’s help with the clothing, I decided to rely on her for future tasks I felt nervous about. Sure, I’d try to learn to be independent, but a little selfishness now and then couldn’t hurt, right?

I walked down the hallway with Leila, putting my previous training to good use.

I walked over the soft carpeted floor that stretched endlessly, passing by maids tending to the windows and plants, and a beautiful garden to gawk at just outside the window. Countless vases and beautiful paintings adorn the hallway.

Yeah, way too fancy.

—

As Feyt, I climbed up back to bed and lay down so I could focus entirely on the upcoming lesson as Carine. I stared at the rickety wooden ceiling, feeling it might fall to my face if there was ever heavy rain.

Talk about worlds apart, eh?

After a minute of walking, we reached the front of the drawing room, Leila stepped up and opened the set of double doors. Stepping inside, the room practically blinded me with its fanciness.

So– shiny–!!

Several golden chandeliers adorned the ceiling. Plush velvet chairs and sofas in deep reds invited me to sit. Sunlight streamed through stained glass casting colorful patterns on the shiny marbled floor. It was almost like a mini ballroom instead of a drawing room.

In the middle of the room, sitting in one of the velvet chairs, was none other than Lady Maltine. The moment she saw me, she stood up and bowed.

“Good morning, Lady Carine.”

I bowed as well, lifting the hems of my skirt as I did so. “Good morning, Lady Maltine.”

That’s weird, why did I suddenly lift the hems of my skirt? It felt natural too. Muscle memory?

“A perfect greeting, Lady Carine.”

Although I was weirded out, it was beneficial to me as I saw Lady Maltine’s smile. She must’ve liked it.

“Now then,” Lady Maltine clapped. “Shall we start our lesson?”