Chapter 105: Out? Safe?

Representing the three girls, Fabienne opened a small bottle of facial toner. The bottle was a visually appealing container that I crafted with my ‘Craft’ skill. The lid was decorated with a depiction of a resting bird’s feathers.

On the handkerchief prepared by a servant, she put a small amount of facial toner. She applied it to a small area of her arm to test it. It seemed like she wanted to see if it would have any effect on her skin. Indeed, it would be reckless to apply it directly to her face without testing it first.

Being able to consider such small details without being instructed is a characteristic that suits a potion maker. As a potion maker, it’s not just about creating potions but also thinking about the people who will use them. In that regard, Fabienne passes the test.

All eyes were on Fabienne’s arm. It seemed to be even more radiant than when I tried it earlier. Fabienne kept touching the spot repeatedly.

Perhaps noticing my gaze, Fabienne turned towards me.

“Um, would you like to touch it?”

“Huh? Ah, yeah, sure. Let’s give it a try.”

And as I reached out my hand, I realized something. Even though she’s still a child, is it appropriate to touch a woman’s arm? It would be understandable if we were childhood friends, siblings, or engaged, but we don’t have that kind of relationship, do we? But now it’s too late to say, “Oops, let’s stop.” Oh well, might as well go with it.

I touched Fabienne’s arm as planned. It felt smooth, like touching porcelain. Come to think of it, I confirmed that it became more glossy, but I didn’t check the texture. It’s so smooth. Even though the effect is “minor.” What would happen if it were “major”? Would it make you look younger?

“Well, how does it feel?”

“It feels really smooth.”

Fabienne’s face turned bright red upon hearing my honest impression. Oh no. Seeing her face made my own face feel hot.

“May I touch it too?”

“I want to touch it too.”

Natalie and Melissa followed after me. After confirming the texture, they also applied the facial toner to their arms.

None of the three experienced any negative reactions such as allergies or redness. It seems there are no issues.

“I would like to try it on my face…”

“Oh, in that case, I can give you this facial toner. Try using it at home and see how it works for you.”

Saying that, I handed them the facial toner. They received it with great care. Good, good. Maybe now they’ll have some interest in potions.

“By the way, who made this?”

“I made this facial toner.”

“Isn’t this a potion?”

“I think it falls under the category of potions, but in the classification of potions in this country, cosmetics are not included.”

I discovered this when researching potions. Daily items such as hand cream, cosmetics, and soap are not classified as potions. Apparently, it’s because many people use them in their daily lives and there is high demand for them.

That makes sense too. If they could only be made by potion makers, they wouldn’t be able to meet the demand. So, the facial toner and hand cream that I made to generate interest in potions are like exploiting a legal loophole.

“I see. So, can I make it too?”

She took the bait! Fabienne took the bait. No, it’s not just Fabienne. Natalie and Melissa are also looking at me.

“Of course, you can make it. You’ll need some basic equipment, but the necessary ingredients are readily available. I remember that you were growing medicinal herbs in your garden, Fabienne. With those, you can make good facial toner.”

“Is it difficult to make?”

Natalie frowned and asked. If I can draw them in with this interest, I’ll gain more allies in the world of potions.

“In basic terms, you just need to heat water. As long as you get the timing right for adding ingredients such as herbs, it should be fine.”

Hmm, the three girls nodded in agreement. I won. I then explained the step-by-step process of making it to them. Of course, I made sure to keep the conversation light, also mentioning how to make distilled water, how to dry herbs and plants, and even how to make herbal tea using them. It seems they are genuinely interested.

If they can experience the effects of the facial toner and hand cream I gave them, they won’t be able to let go of them. They’ll start making cosmetics and fall into the abyss of potion making… It feels like I’m running some sort of shady business, but it’s all for the future of potions. I have to be ruthless for that.

After a lively conversation with the three girls, the tea party at the Hein Frontier Count’s house came to an end. The magical tools team seemed to be enjoying themselves as well, with Mira running back and forth, called by them.

Edward was happily using the newly made watering magical tool in the garden. Rosalia explained how to use it. Then, Billy and Platon took turns watering the plants.

When everyone left, I returned to the salon with Rosalia and Mira. I slouched on the sofa in exhaustion. Perhaps I used too much mental energy; I feel unusually tired.

“I’m more tired than I thought. Well, it’s a relief that everything went well.”

“Yes, it was enjoyable for me to have so many conversations.”

Looking at the garden, I saw the servants tidying up. They really worked hard. I should treat them with some snacks later. No, maybe I should give them facial toner instead? The servants who had been waiting behind us were looking at us with predatory eyes.

“Brother, may I visit Edward’s place sometime?”

Rosalia asked with a smile. Oh, does this mean… does this mean that Edward asked if she could visit our house?

“Of course, you can. Just make sure not to cause any trouble at their place.”

“Of course.”

Will this help Rosalia become a bit more independent? I don’t feel lonely. I have Mira with me. Mira hopped onto the sofa and settled on top of me. Wait a minute. Is it just me, or is Mira a bit wet?

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