Volume 3, Act 24: Boutique in the Noble District
The servants of the Pameradia House also returned to the mansion when the Founding Festival ended.
According to Emina, the Royal Capital was still bustling with more people than usual, but it was much calmer than when the festival was on. Most of the street vendors and tourists were already on their way home.
So itll be easier to go out with Christina-sama now, right?
Its a bit unfortunate.
I thought that there would still be some stores left But, Im happy to lose the temptations, since well be visiting a lot of stores.
Cordelia shrugged, and Emina laughed.
Then, there was a knock at the door, and when Cordelia replied, Lara came in.
Ojou-sama, Christina-sama is here to see you.
Okay. Ill be there right away. Emina.
Understood, Ojou-sama.
Christina-sama is at the entrance. I wanted to show her to the parlour, but she smiled like a princess and told me that the entrance was fine.
Lara smiled wryly because she had been entranced by a beautiful person. Cordelia went to the entrance with Emina.
Christina softened her facial expressions when she saw Cordelia.
Its been a while, Christina-sama.
How do you do, Cordelia-sama? Thank you for today. You too Emina-san.
The familiar voice, which entered Cordelias ears, was moderate and natural. Cordelia smiled and replied, Im looking forward to it.
???????
Cordelia lightly asked Christina about how she was, while the carriage was moving from the mansion to their destination.
However, she could only ask things like, How is Earl Alcott? and Arent you tired from the Founding Festival? That wasnt because it was hard to make conversation with Christina, it was because they had arrived at their destination while they were talking.
They hadnt met in a long time and even asking about how the person was caused a lot of time to pass.
(Its a shame. But, theres still time left in the day and I can talk to her when I get off the carriage.)
Cordelia thought as she got off the carriage.
This was the first time that Cordelia had stepped into the district that nobles frequented. After all, she had gotten out of the carriage in front of their mansions when she went to the Flantheim and Hale mansions.
And the only place shed walked around when she was little was the artisan street, and her other outings only consisted of horse-riding to the forest.
She had walked around Ertiga in a dress before, but the atmosphere in the Royal Capital that she had never seen before made her gulp.
(This is a town, right?)
Yes, she had unintentionally confirmed that in her mind. She couldnt help but think that the scene in front of her was like a scene from a musical.
Everyone walking on the white stone pavement was dressed in gorgeous outfits. In the background, there were many large buildings supported by stone pillars, and there was even a huge theatre, and a lot of carriages were running on the roads.
(Its like Ive been sucked into a fairy-tale.)
She was used to large spaces because her mansion, and the mansions of her friends, were massive, but buildings lined up next to each other had a different appeal to them. Cordelia reflectively grasped the parasol that was in her hand.
I heard that they put extra effort into building this area because they also host victory parades here.
I saw one the other day. It was really intense.
Christina continued after Eminas explanation. Then, she casually asked Cordelia.
Is this your first time here?
Yes, so this surprises me.
Thats the same for me. The parade was certainly held here, but I couldnt see much because there were so many people.
Christina said, as she smiled and slowly looked around.
I heard from my friends that this area is most gorgeous when the theatre opens at night. Theyre currently performing romance plays which are popular with women.
Oh, a romance?
Yes. I heard from my friends that the performers always captivate their audiences, so I hope that we can go watch them someday.
Thank you very much. Then, Ill have to grow up soon.
Cordelia replied happily to Christinas kind request, but she was also frustrated.
(When it comes to romance, I- get really, really irritated.)
Can I really watch the stage until the end? She was being pulled into the conversation so she might not have time to think about such things. But, can I really watch the performance when I can feel my cheeks going red just by hearing the words romance?
Cordelia desperate tried to calm herself while being led by Emina.
Do you often go to the theatre in your fief?
Yes. Its not an imposing building like this, but Flora does have a theatre.
Thats nice.
Then, the conversation stopped. Unfortunately, Cordelia had never seen a theatre before, so she couldnt ask any more questions about it, and searched for a new topic.
It wasnt an awkward silence, but she wanted to talk about something since she wanted to deepen their relationship.
(If possible, I would like to hear Christina-sama talk more.)
Then, the conversations would be catered to things that Christina liked.
I was stunned when I first heard that you wanted to visit eight tailors. You must really like clothes.
So you were surprised?
Christina looked a little embarrassed as she put her hands to her mouth, but she happily replied, I like them. However, her voice immediately dropped, and her voice faded, But
Christina-sama?
Nothing, Im sorry.
Is something wrong?
Cordelia tilted her head in curiosity and Christina shook her head.
I forgot what I was going to say. If I remember, then Ill tell you.
Cordelia was confused at those words.
(I wonder what the heck is wrong.)
She didnt have proof, but she felt strange. This wasnt like Christina. But she was hesitant to ask since Christina had already put an end to that conversation. Even if it was something, it was useless to forcibly ask her about it if she didnt want to talk about it.
Besides, they werent close enough for Cordelia to force it out of her.
Christina-sama, if its alright with you, could you give me some advice when I dont know what dress to choose?
Cordelia said after pondering for a while.
Christina seemed surprised by her request and then smiled.
I would be happy to. But, your dress is very nice today, so I dont know if you would need my advice.
Emina helped me pick this dress. She has good taste in clothing.
Is that so? She didnt pick this dress just because she has good taste in clothing, but I think its because she knows you very well. It really suits you.
Thank you.
Cordelia knew that Emina was the one who was being complimented, but she became happy as if she was the one who had just been praised.
However, the person in question, Emina, stopped the conversation there.
Im sorry for interrupting you, but this is the store that Christina-sama wanted to visit.
Emina, who looked emotionless, spoke really fast, but it seemed to Cordelia as if her cheeks were pinking a little. She stared at the building that Emina had pointed out to them while thinking, Ill be happy if shes a bit embarrassed.
Its a lovely store.
The building had small flowers planted in the storefront, and the name was carefully engraved with elegant letters, but it didnt have an overwhelming presence like what she had felt when she had descended the carriage.
Even if the building was in a corner, she felt a sort of grandeur from it that couldnt be compared to other places.
When she stepped into the store, the first thing that entered her eyes was the white theme of the store. There was a white counter and tables. On top of the tables were designs; they had sample dresses on display, and different things were elegantly arranged around the store.
There was a glass wall at the back of the counter, and she saw a workshop filled with colourful fabrics.
Im sorry to have kept you waiting.
A woman appeared from the workshop when she was looking around. She seemed to be in her late twenties. She looked at Christina and spoke.
Are you looking for a dress?
The woman probably saw them like a lady with her younger sister and maid. Christina chuckled.
Yes. I havent decided on which one yet, but I would like to see the fabric samples.
Okay.
Upon Christinas answer, the woman pulled out three thick books from under the counter. Then, she took them and walked to the table with the designs on them.
Please take your time.
The woman put the book down and tidied the designs. Then, she waited a short distance away.
Christina spread one of the books in front of her as if she was used to it. There were a lot of fabrics pasted in the book, and the names of the fabrics, the production areas, and characteristics were written at the bottom.
I know youre fascinated by it because the fabrics beautiful, but kids your age dont get dresses made with this material. But, if your Onee-san wants it, then I can give her some advice.
The man shifted his gaze to Christina.
Me?
You often go out, dont you? Its expensive, but its radiance is top-rate, so youll shine at evening parties!
Thats right! Beautiful women should dress up beautifully!
The woman followed suit when the man pitched the product, and the two pressured Christina. Getting the fabric pitched by a grown woman was quite troublesome.
Then, I wonder if you could show me the fabric?
The two smiled and went to the back when they heard Christinas answer.
Christina-sama Are you sure?
Yes, I was a little surprised, but theyre cheerful people. In any case, I was planning on seeing it anyway.
Its not what you say, but how you say it probably refers to this, Cordelia thought. She felt that they were trying really hard to sell the silk, and if Christina wanted to look at the fabric from the start, then it was probably fine.
But, Christina seemed anxious as she waited for the flora silk to be brought out.
Not long after, the two came out from the workshop with four different coloured fabrics. The man put the fabric in front of Christina, opened it with both hands and said in a rich voice.
What do you think of this fabric and gloss? The colours vibrant. Dont you think it looks different from other silks?
All these are samples, so we cant tailor your dress straight away. Its not easy to stock since its precious, so there are delays in delivery. But I can guarantee to sell it to you at this price if you buy it before next year.
The woman pitched after the man and handed Christina a quote. The cost depended on the pattern, but it wasnt an astonishing sum.
Our store doesnt get carried away with business, like the other stores. Its a bargain, isnt it? Of course, you can pay after weve gotten the fabric!
Cordelia was reminded of the commercials she saw in her previous life, while watching the two pitch the material, and didnt feel like saying anything. The clerks who insisted that this was a bargain to the lady of the silks production area It was a bizarre sight.
(They arent getting carried away because flora silk is expensive)
At least there was a reason for why it was expensive. It was important silk that continued a tradition. The man and woman didnt know about Christinas lineage so they could say what they wanted.
But Cordelia felt a little anxious about how it all sounded to Christina since it sounded as if they were forsaking a gem that was the pride of the area it came from.
When Cordelia glanced at her, Christina had already become expressionless. But, that was also only for a second.
I have to ask my father. Would it be alright if I dont give you an answer right now? I want to keep this quote though
Cordelia hadnt expected Christinas answer and blinked. They didnt talk much after that and slipped out when another customer entered the store.
Christina didnt say anything for a while as they walked towards the third store. She looked stiff even though shed received the quote.
Cordelia finally opened her mouth when the store was out of sight.
Christina-sama, the store before was a little weird.
Christina widened her eyes a little, but then her expression quickly softened.
So you noticed after all.
After all?
I asked Cyrus-sama about you, and he said that you were brilliant.
Cordelia had been bothered by what Cyrus could have told Christina about her since he had reminded her not to be a tomboy. Even if he had said something bad about her, Christina would change it into something nice.
Hes exaggerating.
Cordelia brushed it off so that she wouldnt say anything unnecessary. Christina continued to smile.
But, then her expression immediately changed.
Cordelia, I have a favour to ask of you. I would like to talk to you after were finished today. Are you free?
Christina looked a little anxious, but it didnt seem like she was going to take back her words.
I wanted to talk to you today, so we can talk for as long as you want.
They would probably talk about what Cordelia wanted to know during that time.
So, she wouldnt ask any unnecessary questions and enjoy shopping with Christina. However, she decided that she would keep an eye on the things she was worried about if the topic was related to the outing.
Unfortunately, they werent able to visit all the eight stores that Christina had wanted to see.
One of the reasons was that it took a lot of time to get to the third store, since it was far from the second store, and Christinas feet started hurting when they began walking to the fourth store.
Thus, they ended their tour at the fourth store. Afterwards, Christina purchased sweets from the tea house that Emina had recommended, and Cordelia was invited to the Alcott mansion in the Royal Capital.
Im sorry, even though I was the one who asked you out.
Its fine, but is this really alright?
Yes. Im a little tired because I danced too much at the ball. I usually only dance one or two songs at the fief. I have to train a little more.
Christina, who laughed, didnt look like she overdid it. The ball was the finale of the Founding Festival. Cordelia could imagine that it must have been gorgeous.
Now then, shall we eat? They look really delicious.
Lets eat.
The chocolate mousse from the famous confectionery store was composed of three different flavours and was very rich. The faint alcohol smell coming from it was superb.
Oh yes Do you like dancing Christina-sama?
Cordelia asked with curiosity since Christina only danced one or two songs while she was at her fief. Balls shouldnt be that short, and if she attended other events, then it probably wouldnt end at just one or two songs.
Thereupon, Christina turned a little red.
Ive been bad at dancing since young, but I dont hate dancing itself. But its a bit embarrassing. We have to stay very close to our partners during such times, dont we?
Cordelia was influenced by Christinas words and her cheeks also started to heat up.
She knew that dancing required partners to be close to each other. Therefore, she never thought anything about it when she had lessons with her tutor or when she danced with Gille before But she felt somewhat embarrassed when Christina put it like that.
(It wasnt like I hadnt felt shy, Im sure I acted normal until the end. Im sure Gille-sama thought nothing of it. So Christina-sama is actually a little shy!)
If someone said that I wasnt shameful enough, then I wouldnt be able to attend balls, she desperately urged. Of course, she thought that Christinas remarks were charming. And she could completely agree with Christina if she was basing it on standards in her previous life.
(But still, I dont have a problem with it in this world. Gille-sama might feel troubled if I get embarrassed about it now, and he wouldnt know why I was embarrassed. Then, I will be the only one who acts strangely!)
But, I feel like Ill get in over my head if I keep thinking about it. Stop, dont think. I practised really hard to dance gracefully to become a beautiful lady, even though I wasnt good at it. I have to avoid not being able to dance because Im confusing some old memories.
Christina continued to act embarrassed while Cordelia was trying to shake off her feelings.
When I first started learning how to dance, the lessons were torture. Finally, the tutor gave up on me because I was sulking. But, Cyrus-sama helped me in place of the tutor.
Onii-sama did?
Cordelia widened her eyes at the sudden confession. Christina nodded and continued.
I guess the tutor knew that I would listen to Cyrus-sama.
But I cant imagine you sulking.
Also, she couldnt picture a young Cyrus accompanying Christina. They did have a painting together, but, even if she remembered that, she couldnt imagine what they would talk about.
Fufu, Im glad that you would say that, but Im sorry to say that I was horrible at talking when I was younger. But Cyrus-sama wasnt appalled by that, and would always take his time to listen to me. I always looked forward to seeing him.
I see.
Oh, my bad. I want to correct something. I didnt mean to say it in the past tense, I still look forward to seeing him now.
She spoke nostalgically and happily, and Cordelia smiled.
(Onii-sama, seems like you didnt have to worry.)
Cordelia recalled how Cyrus had acted when he worried about Christina and secretly sighed. Looks like I dont have to worry about them, Im sure theyll be a lovely couple. Cordelia thought for a brief second and then Christina said something Cordelia didnt even think she would say.
Thats why I feel bad. I always think that there is someone else who is more appropriate for Cyrus-sama. If so, then Im unworthy of him.
Cordelia froze.
Christina-sama?
For an instant, she thought that she had misheard something, but she realised that she hadnt when she saw Christina casting her eyes down.
Its well-known that Cyrus-sama is a wonderful person. So of course, I hear stories about him being a young deputy commander, about how hes a skilled knight and about how he calmly assesses things.
Christina slowly forced those words out of her and firmly gripped her knees.
Its all thanks to my ancestors that I was chosen as his partner. Im very proud of that. But, I have nothing to be proud of. Ive learnt all that I need to so that I wouldnt be an embarrassment to him as his wife.
But, I have nothing apart from that.
Christina declared, and Cordelia was confused.
Cheer, console, deny her thoughts.
Such options disappeared immediately. Cordelia couldnt say a word. She didnt know Christina well enough. Christina wouldnt believe her if she said that wasnt true.
Her words cant reach Christina.
(I wonder if Onii-samas words would convince her.)
Cyrus-sama probably wouldnt say something like that to Christina-sama. On the other hand, he probably doesnt think like that at all; therefore he didnt feel the need to voice his opinion on this. Cordelia thought and was at a loss for words, but Christina wasnt looking for a reply at all.
Christina continued in a quiet and timid, yet resolved voice.
So I want to at least accomplish something. I dont know how far my power will take me But I want to protect our pride. I want to find out why fake flora silks are circulating around the Royal Capital.
Translator: Blushy
Editor: SenjiQ