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

Volume 4, Act 35: Invitation to Oulu Village

Cordelia continued to read after she finished her tea and left the Witchs house before sunset.

On the way home, a little further away from the Witchs house, Vernoux asked Cordelia a question.

Whatre you going to do when you go to the poorhouse Dilly?

Vernoux, who probably had stiff shoulders as he was massaging his right shoulder with his left hand, didnt look like he was a noble boy. I should follow his example if Im going to town incognito, Cordelia thought, and then answered frankly.

Im not doing anything. I just want to find out if theres anything I can do

Say it more clearly.

Ive only heard about the poorhouse, but if I can get more insight into it, then it might be useful, right? And Im also curious about the market that the Witch was talking about earlier.

You have a point. Well also be involved in charity work in the future, so itll be worthwhile to check it out.

Its best to know about it earlier, right?

Cordelia said, and Vernoux shrugged.

Well, thats just like you Dilly.

Cordelia smiled wryly in reply to his response.

However, she didnt really just want to know about poorhouses.

(Im sure the children at poorhouses have numerous reasons for living there. Some of them probably ended up living there because of unforeseen circumstances But there are probably some who are living there because of the Dark Fever)

The biggest reason why Cordelia wanted to go to the poorhouse was because of that.

The disease that had led her to lose her life once and was the cause of Teds incident with the fake flora silks.

She couldnt unravel the cause of the disease. Despite that, she wanted to do her best to find a way to soften the incidents caused by the disease, even if just by a little. That desire was the same for her other reasons too.

I wonder if I should go too.

Eh, are you interested in Oulu Village too, Gille?

Vernoux reacted in a dramatic way when he heard Gilles whisper. Gille nodded quietly.

I heard that the poorhouse doesnt have any noble backers and is run by the village. Ive heard a little about the operation, but Id like to see how it runs.

Ah Oh yeah, didnt the nobles who supported them fall to ruin?

Vernoux said hesitantly, and Gille nodded again.

A baron house was supporting the poorhouse until 20 years ago, but they fell to ruin because of corruption. At that time, the kingdom urgently offered to support the poorhouse, but the director declared that it would be operated by the village and its been like that since then.

I think its a perfect chance to observe them if I can get invited to go there.

Its not like I dont know how you feel, and you may want to visit But, Im not sure if youre allowed to go.

Cordelia watched as Gille scowled, when Vernoux said that to him, and felt that it was unusual.

At any rate, Vernoux-sama doesnt fit into noble common sense. He seems like someone who would accomplish anything he wants to do, no matter how reckless.

(The reason why he has a negative response to this is it because of Gille-samas family?)

Cordelia had thought that Gille also came from a House that was as tolerant as the Flantheim House since he often went incognito with Vernoux. But she might have been mistaken, since Vernoux was hesitant to let Gille go to the poorhouse.

(In the first place, Gille-sama should have gone out incognito as many times as Vernoux-sama has, but his appearance hasnt changed at all, unlike Vernoux-sama.)

Vernoux went out with his blonde hair now because he said he was used to going incognito, but Gilles features hadnt changed at all from the time when he was 8. He had grown and was taller now, but he was still clad in Vernouxs magic, and she guessed that his original appearance was different.

And he probably wouldnt have his disguise released because he was on guard.

(But, sneaking out when its forbidden Gille-sama is quite naughty too.)

She could surmise that from when she met him at Earl Hales mansion and when he jumped off the balcony when they met at the Flantheims evening party. He looked diligent but was surprisingly bold.

(Perhaps, are Vernoux-sama and Gille-sama two of a kind?)

No, thats not necessarily true. Gille-sama might be permitted to travel within the Royal Capital under disguise, or he might be prohibited from going out of the Royal Capital. This could hardly be surprising, since theres no need for him to leave the Royal Capital.

Dilly? Whats wrong?

Its nothing.

Lets not think about it too much, after all. Gille-sama doesnt seem mischievous, isnt that enough? Cordelia convinced herself.

Next to her, Gille was persuading Vernoux.

Its fine, isnt it, Vernoux?

Dont you always make up your mind when you say that?

Gille smiled, and Vernoux sagged his shoulders.

I dont want to be scolded with you.

Vernoux said, while looking bitter, but he didnt stop Gille.

You two are really close, arent you?

Vernoux shrugged when Cordelia said that.

Well, I dont know where hell disappear to, if I leave him alone. Hes surprisingly stubborn.

Rude. You always invite me when you sneak out.

You

Cordelia could tell that they were really close.

And she finally noticed that they were back near the fountain.

Shall I walk you home?

Its fine, I want to do some shopping. Thank you for today.

I see. Whatre you buying?

I want to look for some stationary. Oh yes, Vernoux-sama. Do you know what Clifton-sama and Myles-samas favourite colours are?

Cordelia wanted to make arrangements to obtain seaweed from the gelidiaceae family as soon as she got home. Clifton and Myles were knowledgeable about the sea, so one of them or both of them might know about it.

Of course, she might be able to get some through the Eris Firm, but she also wanted to expand her friends. Also, Ronnie always told her not to use the same company all the time.

However, Vernoux frowned at that question.

Whatever colours fine, right? Why are you asking about Clifton and Myles?

I want to know more about marine products. Ive talked to them before, and weve exchanged letters a bit. Theyre both very knowledgeable about it, and I thought their knowledge would be useful.

Cordelia couldnt tell Vernoux about making oblaat yet, so she omitted it in her answer. She was also scared of being treated as an eccentric again, if she told him that she wanted seaweed. But her response was enough to change Vernouxs expression.

Oh yeah, you said you wanted water plants while we were walking to the Witchs place, right? And well, its you, Dilly.

She couldnt tell if his face was twitching or if he was appalled, but he ended his sentence with a sigh.

Just what the heck is he imagining? However, she could guess from his expression that he was thinking something rude. However, she didnt ask about it. If she did, then she would be stirring the hornets nest.

Then, farewell. Vernoux-sama and Gille-sama.

It will get dark if I dont end this conversation at some point. Cordelia thought, as she quickly turned around, but then Vernoux spoke to her again.

Say, youre using suffixes again. Were dropping the -sama, right?

I dropped it in front of Sensei. But I have to add it properly at all other times. If I accidentally call you Vernoux, then people might think were engaged.

Well both be unhappy with that right?

When she included those words, Vernoux shrugged in a pompous way.

That would certainly be a catastrophe.

Right? Now, if youll excuse me. Gille-sama, Ill see you again.

Cordelia bowed to the two and started walking with Ronnie.

Dilly!

However, a voice called out to her immediately after.

This time it was Gille, not Vernoux.

Ill send you another letter!

Although Cordelia was surprised by his sudden outburst, she couldnt help but smile.

Yes, Ill send you one too.

???????

Afterwards, she patiently asked Ronnie to go home early and bought stationery from the stationery shop. After that, she went straight to the laboratory when they returned to the mansion.

Say, Ojou-sama. You look like youre having a lot of fun. Is this related to the people who youre sending that stationery to?

I knew you would be able to tell, Ronnie. Thats right. Im going to ask them about it now.

I knew it.

Cordelia looked up at Ronnie while sitting on the chair and spoke.

I want to make paper that is thin enough to eat.

Paper? Why would you eat paper?

Ronnie widened his eyes in surprise at Cordelias words. Then, he tilted his head in confusion and kept muttering, Paper, paper. She laughed a little at his surprise.

What the heck are you making?

I want to make something that could be used when taking medicine. You know, I want Hans to use it.

Is it like easy-to-use oblaat?

Yes. Itll be nice if it could be used with sweets too. The ingredient will be red algae from the sea But, if possible, I want to look for freshwater red algae.

You want to make paper from water plants? Will you be paper making?

Nope, I have to start by producing the ingredients

All I know is that Agar, the ingredient, is made by sun-drying red algae while sprinkling it with water. When that becomes transparent, you simmer it in a pan until it becomes soft.

Then, you strain the liquid, freeze it, remove the moisture, and its done when its dry But I dont know how much water it needs or how long it needs to be simmered for.

( Well, I might have thought about whether it could be made with freshwater ingredients since Ive never made it before!)

Next, to Cordelia, who was trying to think positively, Ronnie put a hand on his chin and groaned a little.

Can I do that?

Huh? You want to do it?

Cordelia was going to ask him for help, but she was surprised that he was offering. Ronnie muttered.

I have a grandma too. Its hard for her to drink powder medicines, so I want to do this if I can. It might make it easier for her to take medicine if its wrapped in edible paper.

Ronnie was speaking a little quickly and was unusually shy.

Cordelia laughed a little and nodded.

Then, Ronnie, Ill leave this to you, but can I say something?

Yes.

The red algae I mentioned before is just a possible ingredient. Also, you might be able to use potato starch. But I dont know how to combine those ingredients. The last step is to simmer it, spread it thinly and wait for it to dry But it might be possible that itll work out better with potatoes.

She said, and Ronnie froze.

She felt as if he was saying, You dont say. Cordelia smiled wryly.

Do you want to quit?

No, Ill do it. And I think its a good concept. It might be possible to get a pass into the Big Bookcase for it if it gets spread worldwide. Youre aiming for that, arent you, Ojou-sama?

Well, I do want that to happen.

Apart from being located at the castle, there was no way that she wouldnt be interested in that treasure trove of knowledge. Her only worry was encountering the prince.

(I dont think my Onii-samas talk to the prince. I dont think it would be that easy to pass by him)

But what will the real situation be like? When Cordelia thought about asking Isma the next time she saw him, Ronnie slightly stretched.

Im also interested in the castles book collection But Ill think about how to make medicine easier to drink for Hans and grandma first.

Then, Ill write my ideas down right now, so could you wait a moment?

Sure.

Cordelia wrote down what she knew and left it with Ronnie before returning to her room. This time, she was writing letters to Myles and Clifton. She followed formalities, unlike when she wrote to Gille. She attached flower bookmarks to the letters that she had finished.

The first stage of her enquiries would be complete after she gave them to Emina to send off.

(Next, I have to get permission to go to Oulu from father.)

However, Elvis didnt get home so quickly.

Cordelia killed time in the library to calm herself and to stop from fidgeting. Then, she looked for books about the poorhouses of the fief.

(But I know almost everything in these books)

She had already learnt about where the poorhouses were and who the financiers in her fief were. She had also seen income reports, which werent listed in these books, from poorhouses that had deep connections with the Pameradia House.

(However, I cant tell what kind of places they are just from reading about them. The poorhouse in Oulu Village might be different from the ones in my fief. This is a chance for me to experience it.)

She thought, and the library door opened. The person who entered was Ronnie.

Oh, Ojou-sama. Didnt you go back to your room?

Im killing time. You too?

Well, yes. I wanted to research something about the edible paper. So, I brought the paper you wrote with me.

He said, as he fluttered the paper and showed it to her.

So I have something I want to ask you, Ojou-sama. Could I experiment with other ingredients that might work?

Huh? Yes, of course.

Im glad. I thought you wouldnt get angry. When I was in school, my teachers would get angry if I did that.

I see. Apparently, theres a lot of obstinate people at the Magic Academy. Ronnie must have had a hard time. My condolences.

Cordelia sympathised with him in her mind.

Oh yeah, Ronnie. Can I borrow Lara for a bit tomorrow?

Yes, of course. Whats wrong?

I want to hear about how the stationery development is going, and I want to make sachets. I want to give them to the children at the poorhouse.

The Witch had said that she would make muffins, but its probably alright for me to bring a simple souvenir with me as a visitor. Itll probably be bad to give them something expensive, but it should be alright if its handmade.

Lara is good with her hands, so I feel like well finish making them really quickly.

Then, Ill have to make something that wont lose to what she makes.

Cordelia shrugged. Im asking Lara to help me, but I wont let her finish the sachets by herself. My sewing skills are better than before, thanks to my interactions with Hazel-sama I wonder if the dexterous Ronnie and the dexterous Lara will end up competing with each other.

On a different subject, Ojou-sama. Something has been bothering me today.

What is it?

How well do you know that kid Gille?

Come to think about it, Ronnie doesnt talk much when Vernoux-sama comes over. Weve probably never spoken about Gille-sama in front of him before. Cordelia answered easily.

Since I was eight. We went to town to buy glass magic tools before, right? I met him then.

Theres no point in hiding it now that theyve met. Cordelia reported, and Ronnie replied slowly.

Oh That time?

Whats wrong?

Nothing, I was just a little curious

His words continued to be vague, so Cordelia tilted her head in confusion. Does Ronnie recognise Gille-sama from somewhere? However, Ronnie didnt continue and shook his head.

Ill stop here. Youll think Im an idiot if Im wrong.

What do you mean?

Nothing Well, youll find out eventually if Im right.

Ronnies being evasive, and he wont say any more. What the heck is it?

When Cordelia thought that, she heard quiet footsteps. Emina showed up.

Im sorry for interrupting you. Ojou-sama, Master has returned. He has already had dinner.

Okay. Wheres Otou-sama?

In his study.

Thanks.

Cordelia thanked Emina and left the library without turning back. She was worried that she hadnt heard Ronnies response, but this was Gille whom shed been exchanging letters with for four years. I dont think there will be any big drawbacks if something did happen.

Cordelia had no idea at that moment.

(Well, Ronnie will tell me if he feels like it.)

With that in mind, Cordelia walked towards the study to talk to Elvis.

In front of the study, Cordelia felt as if the vibe was heavy. She couldnt hear any sounds in the hallway, but it was apparent that Elvis was in the room.

Excuse me; its Cordelia.

Its open.

There was no fondness in Elviss voice as usual, but he always let her in the room.

However, he was still looking at the paperwork, even though hed given her permission to enter. He had more paperwork than usual today, so it was probably that period in time when he had to deal with a lot of issues.

Otou-sama, I visited the pharmacist whom Vernoux and his friend are learning from today. She knows a lot about medicinal herbs, so would it be alright for me to visit her more often?

Is there something you want to learn from her?

Yes. There are still many herbs that I dont know about, and I want to learn about how to combine them.

I see.

Elvis didnt say anything else after that. It should be alright for me to continue.

However, while she was feeling relief, Elvis turned towards Cordelia.

You didnt come here just to report this What do you want?

He knows I want something. Cordelia smiled wryly, but she didnt let it show. Therefore, she answered calmly and seriously.

I would like to visit the poorhouse in Oulu Village.

Poorhouse?

The pharmacist I visited today helps out at the poorhouse in Oulu Village. She said that she would take me there if I wish to visit. Would it be alright for me to go?

Cordelia said, and Elvis frowned a little.

Oulu?

His tone didnt sound positive.

(Its less dangerous than going to the forest, so Otou-sama must be worried about me leaving the Royal Capital.)

If so, then hes probably asking me why I want to go there.

Cordelia looked straight at Elvis.

Ive never been to the poorhouses in our fief. So, I dont know the difference between Oulu Village and our fief. But I would like to broaden my horizons and think about what I can do for our fief.

When Cordelia stopped talking, Elvis stopped writing.

How did that pharmacist look to you?

Sensei? She is very kind, but she scolds properly when she has to.

Cordelia felt that was unusual as she listened to his response.

She didnt feel like there was anything unusual about being asked that question. However, she didnt recall ever being asked a question by Elvis without eye contact.

Bring Ronnie with you.

I can go?

This doesnt mean that youll be able to do something, even if you go. But if you think that you wont gain anything from this, then dont go.

Thank you very much.

I cant say that there was no possibility of gaining nothing, but I am enthusiastic about returning home with something. In that case, I will clear Otou-samas condition. So, Ill do what I can. Mick and I didnt really bury the hatchet today, so I hope that we could.

She was suddenly curious about something.

(I wonder what Otou-sama was like in his childhood.)

He must have had a childhood. Obviously, there used to be a time when he was the same age as Mick and I.

( But I cant imagine it at all.)

He probably didnt order seaweed or look for herbs in the mountain like I do.

I heard that my Onii-samas spent most of their childhoods studying and practising martial arts. Did Otou-sama also do that? However, Cordelia couldnt even imagine a short Elvis.

(Id like to ask what he looked like)

But she was afraid to ask.

Because Elvis had stacks of documents towered in front of him. I know Im still in the way of his work, so I better refrain from asking anything else since Ive already received permission. I should ask him when he has free time.

Thank you very much. Ill be leaving now, Otou-sama.

Okay.

Cordelia bowed to Elvis and left the room. She turned back to look at Elvis, but he had already gone back to his paperwork.

( Ill have Hans prepare tea for him later.)

Cordelia thought, as she returned to her room. On the way, she saw white flowers in the hallway and suddenly remembered the Witch.

(Shes really is amazing.)

And shes kind. When she thought about it again, she began remembering everything that Gille had said.

The way Sensei and Dilly laugh. You look alike.

She felt somewhat embarrassed by those words, but also happy. It would be nice if I grow up kind like her.

Translator: Blushy

Editor: Senji