An Extra’s Rise in an Eroge

As we entered the grand manor, an elderly man stood at the door, his posture perfectly straight despite his age. He was dressed immaculately in a tailored black suit with a crisp white shirt and a silver cravat, exuding an air of dignified service. His pristine white hair was combed back neatly, and his wise blue eyes sparkled with warmth and intelligence.

He bowed slightly as Alicia and I approached, his stout frame showing no signs of frailty. His demeanor was composed, but a kind, approachable smile softened his sharp, refined features.

"Welcome back, Lady Alicia," he said, his deep, eloquent voice measured and steady. Turning to me, he inclined his head respectfully. "And a warm welcome to you as well, Young Master. It is an honor to have you grace the Raven Estate. Please, allow me to assist with anything you require."

Alicia let go of my hand and ran to him, her excitement evident. Hugging him tightly, she exclaimed, "When did you get here, Grandpa Leo?"

The old man chuckled, patting her shoulder gently. "Oh, calm down, young miss. I just arrived this noon. The master relieved me of my duties as head butler to help manage the manor here in the capital and to assist you in everything."

Alicia's face lit up even more. "Father did that? I'll have to thank him later." She turned back to me, her smile widening. "Arthur, let me introduce Grandpa Leo. He's the head butler of the Raven household—or rather, was," she added with a playful laugh.

"Don't be fooled by his gentle looks," she continued, a note of pride in her voice. "He's incredibly talented. He managed the entire household flawlessly and always helped me when I needed something."

I nodded, but inwardly I couldn't help but smirk. Of course, I knew who he was—Leonard Ray, the former SS-level mercenary and head butler of the Raven household.

Despite his current refined demeanor, he was a monster in disguise. Hired by Marquis Lancelot Raven as an escort, Leonard's skills had been tested in numerous attacks on the Marquis, all of which he handled effortlessly. Eventually, Lancelot offered him a permanent position, promising wealth, a home, and stability in exchange for protecting his children. Tired of the wandering life of a mercenary, Leonard had accepted.

'Leonard Ray,' I thought. The head butler of the Raven household and a former SS-ranked mercenary. Though he now carried himself with the elegance and calm of a seasoned servant, I knew the truth—a dangerous monster lay beneath that smiling mask.

Once a renowned mercenary, Leonard had been hired by Marquis Lancelot Raven as a personal escort. With the Marquis's wealth came no shortage of enemies, and Leonard swiftly eliminated any threats that came their way. Impressed by his skill and weary of constant attacks, Lancelot had offered him a place within the Raven household—a steady income, a home, and a role protecting his children. Leonard had accepted, retiring from his perilous life as a wandering mercenary to serve as the Raven family's loyal shadow.

Unbeknownst to Alicia and Cedric, their lives had been in danger countless times. Leonard had singlehandedly dealt with each threat before they even realized there was one. I had no doubt he'd come along to the capital to continue his silent vigil.

"It's getting cold out here, Miss," Leonard said gently. "Shall we continue this conversation inside?"

Alicia nodded, and we followed him into the manor. The inside was alive with bustling activity—maids and servants darted about, their movements hurried and purposeful.

Noticing my gaze, Leonard spoke, his tone apologetic. "Please, pay them no mind, young master. They were unprepared for the arrival of the Duke's heir and are scrambling to ensure everything is perfect." He cast a sidelong glance at Alicia, who grinned sheepishly. "Had someone informed the household about your visit, we could have avoided this commotion."

"I… may have forgotten," Alicia admitted, her cheeks tinged pink.

Leonard gave a long-suffering sigh but smiled fondly. Turning back to me, he continued, "Please forgive any shortcomings you might notice. I assure you, the staff is doing their utmost to make you comfortable."

"There's no need for an apology," I said calmly. "I was only curious."

The butler inclined his head in gratitude. "You are the most gracious, young master."

With that, we continued deeper into the manor, its grandeur becoming even more apparent with every step.

As the others busied themselves with their own affairs, Alicia took the opportunity to lead me around the estate personally. Cedric and Kaela excused themselves, with Cedric muttering something about checking on a few matters. Even Lily and the twins hung back, chatting with the maids about accommodations. Before she left, Lily gave me a knowing smile, while Leonard, standing discreetly nearby, gave Alicia an encouraging nod. Alicia's cheeks turned pink, and I couldn't help but grin.

[Ding! New Mission]

[Seal the Deal]

[Description: Alicia is deeply in love with you but hesitates to confess. Be the man and claim her.]

[Rewards: 20,000 EP; 25,000 FP; Skill: Silver Tongue (C-S)]

[Silver Tongue (C-S): Can persuade anyone with words (Depends on skill level).]

Even without the mission, I would have gone for her. Alicia's feelings were clear, and winning her heart felt like the natural course of events. But with the mission nudging me forward and the encouragement from everyone around us, it felt like destiny was giving me a gentle push. If this was fate, who was I to deny it?

'It seems I'll have to take matters into my own hands,' I mused inwardly, suppressing a smirk.

"Come on, Arthur," Alicia said, her voice brimming with excitement as she grabbed my hand, her soft fingers wrapping around mine. "Let me show you the real beauty of the Raven Estate."

Her touch lingered, warm and inviting, sending a spark through me. I allowed her to pull me along, her joy contagious.

The manor was breathtaking. Every corner told a story of legacy and power—the intricate tapestries, the oil portraits of regal ancestors, and the chandeliers dripping with crystal light. Alicia led me through a gallery of stunning artwork, a study filled with tomes that whispered secrets of the past, and finally, to a grand balcony that opened to the night.

"I told you the Raven Estate was special," Alicia said with a proud smile, her voice softening as the moonlight bathed us in its glow.

The view was mesmerizing. Below, the gardens sprawled like a dreamscape, the fountains shimmering like liquid stars under the moonlight. Roses bloomed in a sea of colors, their fragrance carried on the cool night breeze. But I wasn't looking at any of it.

"It's beautiful," I said, my voice low.

"Hmm?" Alicia turned to me, catching my gaze. Her blush deepened as she quickly looked away. "You're not even looking at the gardens, are you?"

"I see something far more beautiful," I murmured, stepping closer.

"Stop it," she said, though her voice wavered, and her lips twitched into a smile. "You're just teasing me."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

"I'm not." My voice held a quiet certainty that made her glance back at me.