Kays Translations

Chapter 105: Out? Safe?

Fabienne opened the small toner bottle on behalf of the three girls. I had shaped its glass with Craft and decorated the stopper with the folded wings of a resting bird.

A servant provided a clean handkerchief. Fabienne placed a few drops on it and applied the liquid to a small patch of her forearm rather than immediately using it on her face.

That careful decision impressed me. A good magic pharmacist considered not only how to make a product but also how it would affect the person using it. Fabienne had passed the first test without being instructed.

Everyone watched the treated area. Her skin became noticeably smoother and more lustrous. Fabienne touched it several times, then noticed my attention.

“Would you like to feel it?”

“Certainly. I should confirm the texture.”

Only after extending my hand did I realise how awkward the situation might appear. We were children and the test was entirely practical, but noble etiquette could turn even an innocent gesture into a subject of gossip.

Withdrawing now would be stranger, so I lightly touched the tested patch.

It was as smooth as polished porcelain.

“Well?” Fabienne asked.

“Very smooth. The toner worked better than I expected.”

Her face reddened. The sight made my own cheeks warm, although I couldn’t explain why.

Nathalie and Melissa also inspected the result, then tested the toner on their own arms. None developed redness, itching, or any other adverse reaction.

“I would like to try it on my face,” Fabienne admitted.

“Then please take the bottle home. Use a small amount and observe the effect.”

The three accepted it with almost ceremonial care.

“Who made it?” Nathalie asked.

“I did.”

“Is it a magic potion?”

“It resembles one, but cosmetics aren’t legally classified as regulated magic potions in this kingdom.”

My research had revealed that ordinary products such as soap, hand cream, and cosmetics could be produced without a magic-pharmacist licence. Their widespread daily use made strict restriction impractical.

Thus, my attempt to interest them in magic pharmacology remained technically legal.

“Then could we make it too?” Fabienne asked.

Success.

“Of course. You need basic equipment, but the ingredients are common. Fabienne, you already cultivate medicinal herbs in your garden, so you could make an excellent toner.”

“Is it difficult?” Nathalie asked.

“The basic process is little more than controlled heating. The important points are the quality of the water, preparing the herbs correctly, and adding each ingredient at the proper time.”

All three listened closely.

I gave them a simple explanation of distilled water, drying herbs, basic extraction, and even herbal tea. Their questions showed genuine interest rather than polite attention.

Once they experienced the cream and toner at home, they would surely want to reproduce them. From cosmetics, it was only a short descent into the fascinating depths of potion-making.

My plan sounded somewhat like the scheme of a suspicious merchant, but it was for the future of magic pharmacology.

Meanwhile, Edward, Billy, and Platon took turns using the Sprinkler while Rosalia instructed them. Mira ran happily between the groups, answering whoever called.

The tea party ended without incident. After the guests departed, Rosalia, Mira, and I returned to the salon. I sank into a sofa, more exhausted than expected.

“That required more energy than I thought,” I said. “Still, everything went well.”

“I enjoyed speaking with everyone,” Rosalia replied.

Outside, the servants were clearing the garden. They had worked hard. I considered ordering special sweets for them, but the attendants behind us were staring at the remaining toner with unmistakable interest.

Perhaps the next gift had already been chosen.

“Big brother, may I visit Edward’s home sometime?”

“Of course. Be polite and don’t interfere with the household.”

“I will.”

Rosalia’s growing friendships might help her become more independent. I wouldn’t be lonely; Mira was still here.

Mira jumped onto the sofa and settled across my lap.

Then I felt moisture soaking through my clothes.

“Mira… why are you wet?”

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