Drop!! ～A Tale of the Fragrance Princess～ (LN)

Volume 05, Act 52: A New Journey

Translator: Blushy

Editor: SenjiQ

An unexpected person greeted Cordelia when she came home from the castle.

I heard about it, Cordelia! Youve had a dreadful experience!!

Cordelias aunt, Nirupama, hugged her before she could ever say hello.

Ni-Nirupama-obasama

Oh my, youve gotten more beautiful. Im happy youve grown into a niece whom I can boast about. But, good job with that annoying matter.

Th-thank you very much.

Nirupama spoke in a clear voice, as always, and Cordelia could tell that she was healthy, even if she didnt ask. Nirupama nodded in satisfaction at Cordelias reply, then pondered.

However, I cant believe you got involved in something like that Im happy that you saved a girl, but Im worried about you as an aunt. I wish I had come to pick you up sooner. But I cant take you with me until Cyruss wedding ends, so it wouldnt have made a difference.

Huh? Pick up you say?

What is she talking about? I didnt hear anything about going out She thought, and Nirupamas eyes sparkled.

You didnt hear anything from Elvis-sama?

Hmm, did Otou-sama have something to tell me?

Hmm, I can tell you about it if you havent heard about it from him Say, Cordelia. Why dont you train to be a lady in my fief until you reach adulthood?

Cordelia widened her eyes in surprise at the sudden offer.

The details would be explained after Elvis came home, so the conversation was left as it was until dinner.

Then, as soon as Elvis came home and started eating, Nirupama smiled widely and questioned the expressionless Elvis.

Say, Elvis-sama. Why havent you told Cordelia about that yet?

It wasnt important.

Its already been three months. THREE MONTHS. Its not like you didnt have time to talk to her about this, right?

Nirupama continued to smile as she said that in a rough tone, and Cordelia wanted to calm her down. However, she couldnt say anything because she thought she would be adding oil into the fire.

Her sister was excellent, but shes had a hard time since she didnt have a model around her, right?

Or, do you also want Cordelia to face those same troubles?

Nirupama was extremely angry, but she didnt show any sign of backing down.

O-obasama. Otou-sama is also worried about me living in an unfamiliar place

Oh my, he doesnt need to worry about that. Of course, youll feel confused at first, but youre adaptable. And, you know she wont complain, dont you, Elvis-sama?

Fights between women, Opps, I mean, the tactics women use are different from the ones men use. Unlike the royal capital, I can do what I want in the fief, and I can gain influence with the feudal lords wives whenever I go to greet them.

I think it would be useful for her if she wants to compete with essential oils, and youre bad at socialising, so I need to show her how to socialise, right?

E-l-v-i-s-sama, are you listening?

I can hear you.

From his reaction, it seemed like he agreed with the idea.

Cordelia, do what you want.

Elvis answered in a somewhat annoyed tone.

However, even if he said the decision was up to Cordelia, she still hadnt heard enough about it to make a decision.

How long will I be there for?

I dont mind if you stay with me forever Hey, Elvis-sama, dont glare at me like that. Well, I think its better if you celebrate your adulthood here, so I guess until then?

Sixteen was the age of adulthood in this world, so two years. That was longer than Cordelia had anticipated.

Nirupama continued since she had predicted that Cordelia would be confused.

You have a lot of things to do, so it might be difficult for you to give me an answer straight away. However, if you think about it positively, Im sure itll be of use to you.

Nirupama was quite right.

What I learn from Otou-sama and the tutor are useful, but I still havent seen a lady who would be my role model in the Pameradia House.

Its been two years since Ive started sending flowers to Okaa-sama. She hasnt returned the flowers, but she doesnt speak to me either. Ive heard that she asked for flowers when I was at the fief, but she hasnt asked me about them herself.

(I can understand why Onee-sama had a hard time when she first debuted in high society because she didnt have a model.)

It may be easy to practice what I have learnt so far, but knowledge is just preparation, and practice is different.

In that case, Ive decided on my answer.

Oba-sama, may I ask for your guidance?

This is a once in a lifetime chance.

I also have the choice of staying in the royal capital for two years, worrying about Shelley. She might continue to use her dreamer power, but she wont appear in high society right away. In that case, I want to do what I can before her influence grows.

(I have more acquaintances than her while were still children. People probably wouldnt believe things as they are when theyre clearly different from the facts.)

Im more worried about what will happen once we step into the world of adults. Even if a strange rumour circulates, I can dispel it with my actions. In the first place I will probably need to gain abilities that dont require me to ensnare a person.

(Even so, I really dont want people to say that Im a lady who is bothering the Prince.)

To be honest, I cant even imagine that love would bloom between Shelley and Sylvester-sama right now, so I dont think I can get jealous of their love, and have my magic run wild like the in-gameCordelia.

However, I have to fall in love with Sylvester-sama first to get jealous, but hes the target of my fear, so I dont have to worry about it, from that perspective, since I wont fall in love with him.

(But Ill become a troublesome lady if I ignore Shelleys words and actions. If that happens, then Ill cause problems for my family And, if rumours are going around about me being a relentless lady, then it might harm my future marriage!)

Thats right I still want to experience love.

At least, I want to do the things I couldnt in my previous life, in this life. Ill have more opportunities to meet the person of my dreams when I become an adult, but if Shelley keeps attacking me, then I might miss the chance.

Im not interested in her love life at all, so I hope that she doesnt approach me; but at present, she probably will.

(Its really different from what I expected, but Shelley is a danger to me, after all.)

For now, the things she said could be taken as a joke, but if things heat up, then she might frame me and say that Im trying to trick the Prince. We may have to settle this matter eventually, at this rate, but I should hone my skills for that time.

However, I want to live as peacefully as I can.

Cordelia looked straight at Nirupama, who smiled wider.

Im the one who invited you, so of course. But I wonder if its alright for you to make this decision now.

I have to get ready, so I can go a month after Onii-samas wedding.

Alright. Im looking forward to it. Cordelia, look forward to it too, okay?

I have to get your room ready too, Nirupamas tone changed from angry to happy.

Elvis-sama, dont stay quiet. Dont you have encouraging words to say to her before she leaves?

Shes not leaving yet.

Argh, you can keep saying it to her until she leaves, cant you?!

Still, Nirupama didnt conceal her pleased tone.

Cordelia was grateful that she was so loved. She talked to Nirupama about the fief while eating, then Elvis suddenly opened his mouth.

I have something to say too. Cyrus will retire from the Imperial Guards after his marriage, and will live in Ertiga for a while.

Oh my, thats sudden or maybe not. He wants to learn things from Zeke-sama, the acting feudal lord, doesnt he?

It was also Nirupamas first time hearing that, but she didnt seem surprised like Cordelia. Cordelia hadnt known about this, but it must have been decided a long time ago.

The deputy commander of the first unit will take over as commander of the second unit.

Oh my, then the person who will take over as the deputy commander for the second unit is

Yeah, its Isma. There was also talk about him succeeding Cyrus, but they concluded that it was probably better for him to get used to commanding his own unit first.

Nirupama raised her voice in surprise when she heard that.

Rumour has it So that means Cyrus and you didnt support this decision?

I dont need to interfere with the army now. Cyrus also hadnt opposed or supported this decision. I recognise Ismas abilities, but I know that it would be troublesome for him if people think its because of his lineage.

Were Isma-oniisama and Cyrus-oniisama talking about this matter in the corridor the other day?

In any case, big changes are happening in the Pameradia House.

But, if Cyrus is gone, and Cordelia comes with me, then youll be a little lonely.

Theyll be back straight away.

Elvis replied instantly, and Nirupama shrugged.

It seems like things will be tough when Cordelia gets married.

Its still too early.

Or, you can let her come to me for a groom?

Thats the same.

Argh, you only reply quickly in times like this.

Elvis remained expressionless, but Nirupama seemed to be enjoying this.

???????

So, Ill be going to Weltoria fief for a while since things have settled down.

A few days later, Cordelia briefly explained the situation to Vernoux, and he looked a little surprised as he drank his tea.

Thats sudden. Well, I guess it isnt, since the Earl knows about it But Ill miss you.

Oh my, are you unwilling to part with me?

Oh, Im disappointed that I wont get to eat this Sachertorte for a while. So, Im taking another slice.

She had thought it was rare for him to make a serious remark, but his real aim was the cake. I might have to consider that all the things he says have a hidden meaning.

You dont have to worry about the mobile library. Ill assign the proper positions as long as I take over.

Thank you very much. Its awkward for the person who proposed it to pull out.

Thanks to someone, its alright to leave people out, so its fine.

Thank you for your compliment.

She replied as Vernoux was reaching for the second piece of cake, and he shrugged.

Oh yeah, I heard that Miss Clydereine is hard to please.

Did you hear about her from Clive-sama?

Its because its unusual for him to be annoyed at someone other than me.

This time, Cordelia couldnt help but shrug at what Vernoux had said.

Please be kinder to him.

Ill do my best. No, I am doing my best.

No, youre not.

Well, Ill contact you if that girl does something, it seems like theyre looking for an excellent tutor for her right now. On another topic, can you make some time before you leave?

Huh? Sure, I can.

Then, Ill get Gille, and well have a farewell party. Of course, you can bring Ronnie with you too.

Cordelia was surprised by her friends encouragement and smiled.

Thank you very much. Ill be happy to have a farewell party with you two.

The edges of Vernouxs lips lifted up when he heard Cordelias reply.

The Flantheim Houses carriage came for Cordelia when she had finished getting ready for her trip next month. Vernoux and Gille were inside the carriage.

Cordelia hadnt asked about their destination because she was looking forward to seeing it on the day, but she guessed that they were probably going somewhere in town But then she noticed that they were going out of the capital walls.

Are we going to Oulu Village?

Well, just look forward to it.

Judging from the way Vernoux had spoken, it didnt seem like they were going to Oulu Village.

Ill give you a hint, Gille chose the location.

Oh my, Gille-sama did?

She had taken Ronnie along, so Gille and Vernoux were sitting face-to-face, but Gille was quietly staring out the window today.

Gille, calm down. The place wont change, even if you worry.

I-its not like Im worried or anything

Honestly. Dont complain when you get sick because of your tension.

Gille stared out the window again without replying as Vernoux shrugged.

Gille had only said a few words today. Cordelia felt happy to be going to that place, since he had thought so much about it.

I feel relieved to know that Gille-sama was the one who picked the place.

Dilly, thats adding pressure.

Rude.

However, Gille was still looking out the window, and Cordelia couldnt ask him how he felt.

(But if so, then I shouldnt look out the window until we arrive.)

Gille-sama had chosen the location.

Im sure its better not to see it until we get there. Im sure itll be amazing.

Vernoux and Cordelia chatted as Gille stared out the window. The carriage finally stopped after some time had passed, and Vernoux and Gille got off first. After that, Cordelia slowly got out. It was a meadow filled with colourful flowers.

The meadow was gorgeous. There were light flowers and primary coloured flowers.

Wow.

The stem was about the length of her elbow to fingertip, and the flowers were multi-layered. She bent down in curiosity, and a light scent tickled her nostrils. Looking closely, there were also some babys-breath mixed in with the flowers.

Do you like it?

Yes, its a very lovely view, Gille-sama.

Cordelia could slightly hear the sound of running water, so there was probably a river nearby. It was a very peaceful place, and she could also hear birds chirp from time to time.

I havent heard you talk about this place before, so I thought you probably hadnt come here yet.

Thank you very much.

Gille, Dilly. Go take a walk. Im going to take a break, Vernoux said, as he sat down in the shade of a tree. The breeze was quite pleasant, so it was probably a good place to take a nap.

But why are you taking a break? Weve just arrived. And, its still before noon.

I didnt get enough sleep. Ah, but you dont have to worry about me and just go where I can see you.

I dont think it matters if you can see us since youre sleeping, but I guess he meant to say that he wasnt interested so we can go wherever we want.

Then, Gille-sama, would you like to take a walk?

Of course.

Thank you very much. Ronnie

Ill stay here. I cant sense any monsters, but please stay where I can see you.

It will probably be difficult for Ronnie to join in on the conversation, even if he comes with us. Its not a bad idea to let him rest here for a while.

This is nice. The shade over here is pretty good.

(No, Vernoux-sama. Ronnie wont feel at ease if hes next to you.)

There are other trees arent there, he doesnt have to share with you, but its hard for Ronnie to refuse anyway. I think I should return as quickly as possible for Ronnie, but I also want to enjoy the scenery until Im satisfied.

(Ronnie, Im sorry. Just wait for a bit, alright?)

Even Ronnie would let me be this selfish.

Cordelia walked around the meadow with Gille and noticed a single flower.

What is this flower called?

Its called Lug. Theyre great charms for both studying and martial arts. By the way, it grants divine protection for both wisdom and martial arts, and there was a time when it was used as a charm to protect travellers.

So, thats why you took me here?

She tilted her head, and Gille laughed shyly.

I heard this from my mother. She often makes pressed flowers from this, but its difficult to grow them, even if you transplant it, because of the magic in the soil. So, I thought you probably hadnt seen them before either.

Gille-sama definitely picked this place.

She thought again.

I understand your mothers feelings, since this flower is so cute. It would be nicer if you could transplant this flower.

Hmm. But I dont think mother really wants to transplant it either. If she succeeds, then she wouldnt have a reason to come here anymore.

This is definitely a great place. Id like to come back here again.

Its a really calm place, and it makes me want to stretch.

I think itll look beautiful in a garden as well, but people probably think its beautiful because it blooms here.

Then, I wont say it here.

Say what?

Cordelia tilted her head a little, since it was rare for him to be even a little mean, and Gille laughed.

Tell me when you come back to the royal capital. Ill bring you here again.

Cordelia widened her eyes and laughed a little.

Arent you a little surprising?

Sorry.

Dont apologise. Then please bring me here again when I return.

Its a promise. I feel a bit sad since I wont be able to see you for a while.

Cordelias reaction was a little delayed since his words were a bit different from what Vernoux had said the other day. She knew that he was sincere, but she couldnt find the words to answer right away. She was happy that she was valued as a friend, but she felt embarrassed to accept those words.

However, it would remain silent if she didnt reply.

Ill become a splendid lady by the time I return. So, please be surprised.

I think youre already a wonderful lady, but if youre that enthusiastic, then Ill do my best so I wont lose either. I heard that the climate there is a bit different from the royal capital, so take care of yourself.

Yes, you too, Gille-sama Whats wrong? Cordelia asked, since Gille looked like he wanted to say something.

Gille stayed silent for a while before shaking his head sideways.

No, its nothing. The flowers here look pretty when theyre cut too, and its easy to dry them. Ill pick some flowers that will suit you before we go back.

Okay, thank you very much. Then, youll have to start picking those flowers now.

Youre right. We still have a lot of time since I also brought us lunch. The ham sandwiches from the Flantheim House are very delicious.

Oh my, Im looking forward to eating them.

Im sure he has something to say.

But I wont force him to say it, if he doesnt want to.

Please take it easy. But I hope that youll fulfil your goal.

Im lucky to have friends who support me.

Ill tackle everything that appears before me.

Cordelia smiled widely with determination.