Chapter 653: Lady Fabienne’s Concern

The conversation shifted from the ghost subjugation to skin lotion. Since Lady Fabienne was dining with us, I seized the opportunity to boast about her achievement.

“While I was away, Lady Fabienne developed the new cosmetic you requested.”

Mother and Sister-in-law Daniela jerked forwards, eyes widening as they fixed four intense pupils upon her. Overwhelmed, Lady Fabienne leaned back slightly.

“Is that true, Fabienne?”

“What effects does it have?”

They had taken the bait magnificently. Brother Alex smiled, while Father’s mouth twitched.

“Erm, it prevents the skin from ageing and repairs damage. A single application remains effective all day.”

Its actual duration was half a day, but we told everyone it lasted all day. Otherwise, repeated use might produce agelessness, and the lotion would become as valuable as gold.

I had quietly told Lady Fabienne the truth. She was shocked but understood the reason. Even so, her expression suggested she wanted to use it twice a day. Surely she was still far too young to need it at all?

“Fabienne, where is that potion now?”

“Erm…”

She looked to me for help. We had used the entire batch during testing, and she found it difficult to tell Mother that none remained.

“We tested the potion first to confirm its effect and ensure that it didn’t harm the skin. There’s none left at present.”

“None… remains?”

Mother’s face went blank. Did she truly want it that badly?

Perhaps we should have made more immediately, but there had been no time.

“I apologise. Since it’s a newly developed potion, verifying its safety was essential.”

“Oh, it’s entirely new? Then I suppose it can’t be helped.”

“Indeed. If the results are satisfactory, I shall speak to the kingdom directly.”

Mother and Sister-in-law Daniela accepted the explanation. The latter clearly had high expectations and intended to secure prompt recognition for the new potion.

I did not think Sister-in-law Daniela needed it either. Perhaps Her Majesty was the one eager to obtain such a thing. That seemed quite plausible.

Developing a new potion was evidently still treated as almost taboo. Thank goodness I had received my magic pharmacist qualification directly from the Crown. Without it, creating new potions would have been extremely difficult.

“I intend to make more Anti-Ageing Skin Lotion immediately. We should be able to give it to you then.”

“I look forward to it, Fabienne.”

Mother smiled at her, and Sister-in-law Daniela wore an identical expression. She was beginning to resemble Mother more and more. They looked like true parent and child.

“So far, none of us has experienced any skin problems. The other magic pharmacists are testing it as well, so we should have results tomorrow.”

“I look forward to good news.”

At last, we ended the discussion. I should have waited for the full test results before reporting it. I would remember that next time.

After dinner, while we waited for our turn in the bath, Lady Fabienne and I relaxed in the salon. I used the time to discuss improving Holy Droplets.

It was hardly a romantic subject for lovers, but it suited us.

“I intend to use Mira’s fur in the improved Holy Droplets.”

“Will that be safe?”

“I shall only test it. I don’t intend to report it to Father until it’s complete.”

I had already learnt from that day’s mistake. An incomplete report only raised expectations.

“Which means I need some of Mira’s fur… Wait. Where is Mira?”

“They fled a short while ago.”

“Grrr.”

How quick. Mira had apparently sensed danger before I even explained. It did not matter; I had a supply of their fur in my room.

“Making an improved potion is one thing, but how shall we test it? Wraiths are hardly common.”

“Even if you find one, please don’t go yourself. I know you’re strong, but…”

“Ah! Don’t worry. I won’t go. The knights now understand how to use Holy Droplets, so they’ll manage without me next time.”

I encouraged the downcast Lady Fabienne with all my might. This was bad. She had concealed it well, but she had been terribly worried about me.

She had probably chosen to stay at the Heine estate tonight because of that concern. How had I failed to notice?

All I could do was hold her tightly until she calmed.