Kays Translations

Chapter 246: Something on My Mind

　The table was covered with sweets sold only in the territorial capital. They were less refined than the luxury confectionery gathered in the royal capital from across the kingdom, but I loved their simple flavour.

“Julius still likes those, I see.”

“They’re delicious—not too sweet, with just a little crunch.”

　I picked up a biscuit and bit into it. A little salt had probably been added, which made the sweetness stand out.

　Seeing how eagerly I ate, my sisters-in-law each tried one as well.

“I was relieved to hear that Julius finally made friends in the royal capital. I thought you intended to shut yourself away in the territorial capital forever.”

“That was the plan, wasn’t it?”

“…There will be times when you must visit the royal capital, as you did this year. Make certain you exchange letters with your friends there.”

“Yes, Father.”

　Father radiated an authority that allowed no argument. Perhaps he was worried that my influence was growing. In that case, keeping me in the territorial capital until matters settled seemed safer, but apparently I was alone in thinking so.

“Kyu!”

“Welcome home, Mira. Have you behaved while I was away?”

“Kyu.”

　I caught Mira as they fluttered towards me.

　As expected, Mira still could not speak. I could use a transformation potion if I truly wanted a conversation, but there seemed no need yet. Nothing serious had happened while I was away.

“Father, how did the epidemic affect the territorial capital?”

“Thanks to your early preparations, it caused little trouble here. Merchants carrying goods from the royal capital brought the illness with them, and it spread among the people for a time, but we contained it.”

“I’m relieved to hear that.”

　The outbreak had not become as severe as it was in the royal capital. That made sense: merchants and travellers were the main carriers, while many nobles had gathered in the royal capital for the social season.

“Other territories were not so fortunate, so we supplied them with magic potions. We had prepared a substantial stock in advance and made a considerable profit.”

“I see. That’s good…”

　Something did not add up. Through the Royal Magic Pharmacists’ Corps, I had distributed the preparation method to Magic Pharmacists’ Guild branches throughout the kingdom. Why had the results differed? My confusion must have shown, because Mother’s brows curved in concern.

“The magic potions made in the Heine Margraviate gained a reputation for being easy to drink. Buyers came from all over the kingdom to purchase them.”

　Could that really happen? Following the instructions should have produced the same medicine. Had that many people ignored the method? It differed from traditional compounding, but still…

“Lady Fabienne’s medicine was the most popular of all. It caused quite a commotion.”

“…What do you mean?”

　Mother’s smile turned teasing. I had a strong feeling I was about to become the target of some affectionate ridicule.

　The previously lively room fell silent, and everyone’s attention settled on Mother.

“Didn’t you teach Lady Fabienne a special preparation method? Her sweet medicine became extremely popular. Members of the Magic Pharmacists’ Guild kept coming here to ask when the next batch would be available. It was terribly difficult to keep the details hidden.”

　Remembering the scene, Mother laughed behind her fan. As I had requested in my letter, the family had handled the medicine Lady Fabienne produced. I was glad customers had not descended upon her home instead.

“I’m sorry for the trouble. Thank you for taking care of everything.”

“Do not worry about it. We have already benefited from the closer relationship with Baron Ambert’s family. More importantly, you must visit Lady Fabienne as soon as possible.”

“Of course.”

“She is special to you, so you must bring a proper gift. Perhaps some jewellery?”

　Jewellery? I had given her a necklace last time—a matching pair of necklaces, in fact. What about matching rings this time? No, that was surely too soon. We were still only ten years old.

　Then again, engagements at our age were hardly unusual. It would not be strange for me to have a fiancée. Lady Fabienne and I were not formally engaged, however. For now, that possibility existed only in my imagination. What should I choose?

　This was a job for Brother Alex, whose skill in dealing with women was well established. I sent him a meaningful look and prayed he understood.

“How about a hair clip suitable for everyday use?”

“That’s a good idea. I’ll choose one. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. Selecting a gift is difficult, but treat it as valuable experience.”

　I intended to make the final choice myself, but I appreciated the guidance. I had no idea what girls liked. Lady Fabienne would probably say anything made her happy, but I still wanted to avoid choosing something unsuitable.

“You look troubled. I’ll help you choose.”

“Thank you, Sister-in-law Daniela.”

　Excellent. I had gained a powerful ally. A princess would know what to select. The price might rise, but that was nothing compared with the trouble Lady Fabienne had endured.

“Then we must summon a jeweller. This will be fun. Cain, you should buy something for Lady Meeka as well.”

“What? Ah, yes.”

　The conversation had unexpectedly caught Brother Cain in its flames. Fortunately, Sister-in-law Meeka was right beside him, so they could choose together. It would not be too difficult—provided she had any interest in accessories.

　Surely this would not end with us summoning an arms dealer instead. I had faith in you, Sister-in-law Meeka.

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