News spread quickly that the charming Prince Albert who held a captivating smile had visited the room of Leonora von Harkenberg. For what reason, they did not know, but various guesses were made.
Such as to apologize for the reckless actions of his sister, for example.
After that day, the times in which the prince seemed to direct a meaningful gaze towards the girl has increased. That was the cause for the rumors.
However, rather than receiving looks of jealous, their surroundings warmly gazed on as the Prince’s gaze seem to be captivated by the girl’s gentle nature, rather than her beautiful looks. As for the girl, they found it quite cute that she would sneakily peek at the Prince’s chest area from time to time.
However, on the other side, there were also people who held quite a restless gaze upon the two.
One was the someone who wanted the common-bred marquis daughter for their faction, Oscar Bernstain. He saw a chance after Bianca had antagonized the girl, however, the wind out of his sails was quickly taken away by the Prince who swiftly moved to apologize, so, for now, he remained still.
And then, one more party was,
「Quite the troublesome thing it is, the disease called love.」
Uttered the young daughter of the duke while in her own room, surrounded by numerous books. Her name, Natalia von Klingbeil.
As she sipped on her soon to be lukewarm black tea, she uttered a soft sigh.
Since she has already retired her servants for the day, the only things around her were a mountain of books and a large bookcase. Rather than the look of a young girl, she held an expression closer to that of a refined scholar or politician. Natalia was deep in thought while staring into space.
「Leonora von Harkenberg. For the prince – no, for this Weiz empire, is she a benefit, or will she be a detriment, I wonder.」
The reason for her contemplation was of course due to the girl who had captured the attention of her dear cousin.
It’s been two days since Albert had visited her room to apologize on his sister’s behalf. When she met him that day during his work in the student council, he had held the brightest smile that Natalia had ever seen as he rambled on about the girl.
(It’s been so long since he talked so much about another person.) Natalia thought.
Because of his excellent features and cool attitude, along with his blessing of the gold coin, her cousin had always been the center of never-ending attention. However, recently he has completely forgotten the real nature of such people, always scheming to curry favor.
The more someone is showered with love, the less value they will receive from that love. As such, gradually it becomes difficult for someone like that to feel empathy. Natalia felt that Albert always wore a calm fake smile, concealing his cold indifferent emotions.
And so, what happened.
Ever since he visited her room, all he does is talk about her with a glitter in his eyes, like a love-struck child. Everywhere she went, his eyes seem to follow as well.
Of course, for the tens of thousands of people who approach Albert for political reasons, they have yet to notice this change in him. But Natalia could tell that there was a budding feeling of love growing inside him.
(Her social status isn’t a problem. Weiz’s sword and shield, the daughter of the Harkenberg marquis. Needless to say about her beauty, it would hard to believe she was raised in the lower city when looking at her manners. And if the Prince’s words are to believed, her disposition is also acceptable.)
However, Natalia frowned.
(A common bred female student, in a relationship with the first prince? It’s as if the Disaster of Flora is happening all over again.)
That was one way to look at it.
If that’s the case, then the one who would fulfill Claudia’s past role would be herself, Natalia thought.
However, different from Claudia, Natalia didn’t really feel any romantic love for Albert. In fact, for her cousin who hasn’t had the best relationships with his peers, she wanted him to find someone he could truly rely on.
So perhaps, no, because of that very reason, it can’t be helped that she is intensely critical of every girl who approaches Albert.
(Leonora von Harkenberg.)
Natalia narrowed her mature Auburn eyes.
「I shall see for myself.」
***
Bianca walked down a broad corridor in an elegant manner, befitting of her status. As she notices the form of a certain beautiful girl, she took a deep breath.
「I apologize for before, I apologize for before…alright, I can do this.」
Although Bianca always held a proud confident look in her eyes, today, a shadow of doubt slightly seeped into its gaze.
She had invited the girl she had wronged a couple of days ago – Leonora von Harkenberg, to talk in the hallway, to apologize to her.
Usually, there would be no need for someone of Bianca’s stature and standing to apologize to someone who was both younger and of lower social status than her.
However, after being reprimanded by the girl’s servant that day as to the severity of her misdemeanor, Bianca felt incredibly bitter regret. Aside from being a little willful, Bianca was not someone who dwells on age and status. She held a straightforward and noble heart.
「Bianca-sama.」
At last, the young girl had arrived in the corridor, at Bianca’s designated location. However, Bianca was timidly petrified.
「Thank you very much!」
Today as well, the girl was wearing her trademark thin dark dress, and for some reason started to express gratitude with a bright smile on her face.
「Thank you…?」
「That sachet. You use it, for me.」
「Eh? Ah」
After seeing where her thin pale fingertips were pointing, Bianca realized. Bianca had been unconsciously gripping the sachet that her brother had delivered to her. Although it was a sachet, it was quite petite and had beautiful embroidery. Recently, Bianca had been using it not only in her bedroom but carrying it around as a charm as well. The soft aroma from the bag seemed to invoke a relaxing atmosphere, similar to the person herself who made it.
「This is…I got it from my brother. Um, I appreciate it.」
「No, Bianca-sama, hold on to it. I am very happy.」
Thinking about the profits that it will bring, Leo showed a broad smile.
That’s right. As expected, after Prince Albert took the sachet at that time, it received the effect of being a brand worthy of the imperial family. Thanks to that, Leo’s entire inventory is practically due to be sold out. The profit will be more than he had ever imagined. However, being sold out also gives it a premium brand feel, so if he were to up production, the profits would be unimaginable. While thinking of such things, Leo grinned wildly.
「Oh you are just…」
For Bianca who had no idea of Leo’s boorish goals, she was incredibly touched that the girl was happy about that fact that she received her exquisite handmade sachet, even after all the bullying she had received. Before she realized, Bianca had both hands of the young girl in her grasp.
And then,
「I’m sorry. I really did a really horrible thing the other day. Somehow, please forgive me.」
The words of apology finally were able to come out of her mouth.
「Forgive…? Bianca-sama, didn’t do anything wrong. Rather, I, received lots of stuff.」
「What are you saying! Ah…Okay, that’s fine, I heard from Onii-sama about how you think. I wanted you to recognize that I did a terrible thing to you but that wasn’t the only reason I invited you here today. The reason, I called you here was…Leonora. If you don’t want you to join any factions then, um…」
After rattling off everything at a speed almost too fast to understand, Bianca swiftly covered her lips with her hands. Not familiar with this sort of situation, Bianca was incredibly embarrassed.
While averting her stiffened and nervous face, Bianca shouted out her next words.
「I, um, will let you…please become my friend!」
Nearby, a couple of students held their breaths as they watched a scene that seemed to be something out of a page in a romantic novel.
—- Bianca-sama, that was a pretty questionable phrasing…!
—- Leonora-sama, somehow, please sympathize with her!
Towards the strange proclamation of friendship that the Imperial Princess had made to the marchioness girl, the people nearby had clearly understood. On the contrary, the young girl was bobbed her head as if she didn’t understand what was going on.
「Huh…」
Leo blinked rapidly.
For Leo who was from the lower city, there was no need to go out of your way to declare your friendship, but nevertheless, it wasn’t like it was a bad thing for Leo to become friends with Bianca.
Well, anyway, to start with, the world in which Bianca and Leo lived in were way too different, so he didn’t feel a need to associate with them. A proposal like 「I want to be your friend」 seemed more like a joke, so Leo was quite shocked.
「Well, um, I look forward –」
To being your friend, was what Leo wanted to finish saying, but,
「Leonora!」
He was interrupted by a cheerful voice.
Today as well, his blond hair dazzled like the sunlight, it was Prince Albert.
「Onii-sama…」
「Prince Albert…」
Turning around, Leo showed a mixed expression. For Leo, Albert was someone he was grateful for advertising his sachet, also someone who was holding onto his future gold coin if he’s lucky, but also someone who could spell the end for Leo’s life as well.
Every time Leo met eyes with him, he wondered if he should be shyly rubbing his hands together about the profits, or approach him to take advantage of him, or if he should be running away in terror. Which one, he did not know.
After all, today as well, all he could do was stare at the gold coin hanging from Albert’s neck with an indecisive expression.
I want to steal the coin and then run away from the academy. But at the same time, life is also precious. A difficult problem, this is.
Suddenly, Leo’s school life had gotten incredibly complicated.
Then, the figure of someone walking behind Albert could be seen.
「How do you do, Bianca-sama. And also – Leonora von Harkenberg.」
With neat tied up flaxen hair and auburn eyes that had an intellectual look, it was Albert’s cousin.
Natalia von Klingbeil.
「Good day to you, Natalia Onee-sama. Onii-sama as well. What brings you here?」
「Well, it’s like this. When you summoned Leonora, my servant came running to me with a pale expression. Obviously, I would be worried so I came here.」
「Hmph! Why would there be a need for Onii-sama’s servant to come running to you for?」
To the frustrated Bianca, Natalia replied with a sharp tone.
「Can’t you understand, Bianca-sama. The past few days, haven’t you been quite restless and confrontational with your female attendants and your friends. In such a state, if you call out the young Leonora, then…」
Bianca felt like she was hit by her words.
「T-that is… Anyway, I just came here to apologize to her. Besides, I haven’t been acting confrontational!」
「Oh, were you not aware.」
Natalia let out a deep sigh, and then turned and faced towards the girl who was left out of the conversation.
「Please, forgive me for not introducing myself earlier. I am the daughter of Duke Klingbeil, Natalia. I work alongside Albert-sama in this school’s student council. Bianca-sama is supposed to be the head of the junior class, but if there’s something you find it hard to discuss with her, feel free to come to us.」
「Natalia Onee-sama!」
Bianca shouted in rejection.
Albert moved to soothe his enraged sister, however her friend did not do anything. Upon seeing the situation, Leo was quick to realize the relationship they have.
Socially, Albert and Bianca were higher than Natalia, but Albert held Natalia in higher regard – speaking of which I think I heard from someone that they were cousins –. Bianca can’t seem to defy the older Natalia as well.
Knowing who they should please and who to not displease is important for living in the lower city.
Leo floated a slight grin.
「Thank you very much, Natalia-sama. I too, apologize, late introduction. I am called Leonora. Also, this is, a handmade sachet. If Natalia-sama accept, super happy.」
With a respectful bow, Leo calculatingly tried to get to know Natalia, pushing his sachet onto her in the meanwhile.
「My, quite a fine greeting that was, Leonora. Moreover, this sachet has quite a nice aroma. Is it the same one as the one Albert-sama carries? I wanted one as well.」
As Natalia chuckled with a soft smile, there was no question that she was related to Albert, she had very well-ordered features. Presented with the opportunity for more promotional service from beautiful girls, Leo was finally in a good mood.
While imagining the coming profits for his sachet production business, Natalia clapped her hands like she was trying to say 「Oh, that’s right!」
「Hey, Leonora. Do you still have some time? Further down this corridor, through that passageway lies quite a nice gallery.」
「Gallery?」
「That’s right. One similar in quality to that of the imperial household’s, it has various paintings, jewelry, and more on display. It’s usually hard to get in through the gate, but if you are a student you get to visit it for free.」
Where Natalia was directing to was a large iron door further down the corridor. Generally, Leo keeps an eye out for splendid ornaments, but once before when he went exploring, the door was kept tightly shut and he saw people being barred from entry so he didn’t try. So once he heard the word「Jewelry」 his money sensor booted up.
Although he knows he probably won’t be able to receive anything from inside, he loved anything that could be considered 「Treasure.」 If he can admire them for free of charge, that would be incredibly nice.
「Will go!」
Leo had immediately answered, but the Weizsäcker brother and sister held a look of disapproval.
「Natalia…?」
「Natalia Onee-sama, what are you planning? If it’s a tour guide, I who am the head of the junior class should be the one to do it.」
The brother couldn’t seem to quite read Natalia’s intentions. The sister plainly disapproved of the notion, but Natalia simply turned to them and smiled.
「If that’s the case, join us. Albert-sama, and Natalia-sama as well, if you like, please feel free to join us.」
If worst comes to worst, they can take matters into their own hands, is what Natalia seemed to signal as she held her hand out towards the passageway. Albert and Natalia both gave each other a meaningful look and then proceeded towards the door.
Once opened, the other side of the door was a room lined with numerous masterpieces of paintings.
「Wha……」
Leo had let out a joyful voice but it quickly faded.
Leo’s most beloved items were things such as money, gold, and also money. There was nothing of that sort there.
「…Treasure…?」
Towards Leo low murmur, Natalia chuckled and answered.
「Fufu, isn’t it splendid. It is the latest collection of the renowned artist Gebhardt. – Oh, the decorative swords and jewelry aren’t here. Most likely, it’s currently lent out to an art museum somewhere.」
Leo hung his head in disappointment.
He loved glittering things like he loved the gold coin, but paintings were in a different category. Even if you call it a famous painting, without a price tag attached to it or something, Leo can’t determine the value of it at all.
「Look, over here. These are my especially favorite work. 『The Advisement of Klingbeil Duke and Duchess』『Tom Müller’s Consort』 and also 『Dr. Vogler’s Studies』」
Natalia pointed at the portraits with a smile on her face, while Leo viewed the paintings with hollow eyes. No matter how pretty it is, a painting is a painting. A pig that can’t fly is just a pig. A picture that you can’t in your hand like a gold coin is just a splatter of colors on a canvas.
At that time, quickly figuring out Natalia’s intentions, Albert frowned and started to speak.
「Natalia. What’s the point of showing her portraits of nobles who she’s not related to. – Leonora, I apologize. This place is always open, so if you like you can come here next time and slowly admire the pictures. Besides, today –」
「Well, Leonora.」
However, the Prince’s words were interrupted by Natalia’s sharp interjection.
「I wanted to ask, Leonora. Reflected through your Harkenberg eyes, which painting do you find is the most desirable.」
「Desirable?」
「Yes, as a student of the Weiz empire academy, as the daughter of a noble, – and as someone who can potentially stand with Prince Albert, what is it that you place your importance in.」
After those words, Bianca finally understood the intentions of her cousin.
Natalia wanted to examine this girl. The culmination of a noble’s training, assessing the value of paintings.
(That can’t be! Leonora was raised in the lower city. If it was a stained glass painting in a church that would be one thing, how would she possibly be able to evaluate portraits when she wasn’t a high ranking noble or ever had to chance to see them?)
Bianca bit her lips. Once before she herself had also done the same thing to eliminate women who were trying to approach her brother. But to do this to a girl who had no one to depend on in the past while Natalia was raised with all the support in the world was too much.
「Natalia Onee-sama, please wait. What’s with this method of doing things…」
「Method of doing things? Now, what do you mean? I am simply asking Leonora on her impressions of the paintings.」
Natalia’s eyes squinted sharply towards Bianca.
「In a large open room, not a private one. And without any other people other than the parties involved, isn’t that right?」
「…….!」
Towards that expression, the princess bit her lips. The brother could also do nothing but show a bitter expression.
What Natalia meant, was that someone who invited the girl to her private property to hold a salon in public with her followers in tow while humiliating said girl should keep their mouth shut.
However, no matter how unpopular this place was, it was still open to people coming and going freely. Especially, because of the tense atmosphere, the four people were giving off, the surrounding people in the room were obviously stealthily straining their ears to listen in. If she were to give an absurd answer in this situation, it would obviously lead to her becoming an object of scorn.
「Natalia, stop. Leonora, this isn’t something you need to worry about, alright?」
「No. Paintings, will look.」
Albert looked to intervene in the situation, but the girl suddenly straightens her back and refused.
「Natalia-sama’s recommendation, are these right?」
Leo didn’t particularly understand Natalia’s intentions, nor did he feel the need to accept her challenge. It’s just that he’s able to view the paintings for free – There’s no way for him to determine the value of the paintings, but – for starters, taking a look and giving his impressions should be fine, Leo thought. In any case, he can simply straight shoot his impressions.
Looking at the beautiful girl who had her eyes straight ahead, Natalia once again commented.
「Wonderful, Leonora. – That’s right, my favorite ones are these three. They were created at around the same time, and the size is also about the same. In order to determine the value of the paintings, it would have to be by the contents of the creation, don’t you think? Which painting do you think is charming?」
「Charming.」
「Yes. That’s right, it would be good if you can express in words which painting depicts the most valuable thing, as well.」
With refined movement, Natalia presented the three paintings with her hand, and once again Leo carefully gazed upon them.
『The Advisement of Klingbeil Duke and Duchess』has hill hanging overhead in the background with a large wheat field and grass-eating sheep presented alongside the married noble couple dressed in a simple outfit. The painting seems to depict their relaxed state as if they were at home.
Guessing from the title, it’s probably Natalia’s parents or blood relatives. She resembled the two in the picture with their intellectual looks. With the calm autumn sunlight shining over their face, they held a facial expression brimming with self-confidence.
『Tom Müller’s Consort』showed a rather plump lady in the painting. With one look, you can see that she is high class, with jewelry decorated cloth wrapped around her whole body.
Even in the background table, you can see flowers and a gorgeous candle stand. She clearly wanted to express her prosperity in this picture.
『Dr. Vogler’s Studies』was a painting of an elderly man who held a hard to please expression. He stood in front of a wall of bookcases with his eyes tightly fixated on the large bulky books.
In each picture, it felt like the real person was right in front of them. Splendid literary style.
Bianca stood behind the girl and viewed the three paintings, and then she ground her teeth.
(This is a trap…)
As the imperial princess, she received special education and because of that, she is able to understand.
Her cousin wanted to completely knock down this girl who had most certainly never received an education in paintings.
Natalia asked for 「which painting depicts the most valuable thing.」 She wants to find out what Leonora herself valued the most, is her intention.
Averting her attention away from her cousin who was appraising the painting, Bianca herself also started to gaze at the picture.
The most famous masterpieces in the present day, Gebhardt’s three paintings.
At first glance, the colorful clothing and jewelry in are the most appealing and charming. However, if you give that answer, you will be disqualified from being a potential consort for Albert.
(Gebhardt was an expert painter, but at the same time was someone well versed in satire. This painting was described as unrivaled by the discerning eye of prime minister Klingbeil. Meaning, this is not just a mere portrait, but a caricature brimming with metaphor.)
Bianca squinted at 『Tom Müller’s Consort』
The silhouette of the seven gems covers the plump mistress is hidden by the glamorous cloth that covers her body. The gems symbolize the seven vices that the spirits loathe, the cloth that concealed that truth, represent ostentation.
Even on the table in the background, if you look closely, one of the flower petals have begun to wilt, and the flame on the candlestick is also flaky. It’s depicted to look as if it could go out at any moment by the faint shadow of the mistress.
Women who are overly extravagant and ostentatious, will in time lose both their beauty and their fortune, that is what it hints at.
Beauty propped up by avarice. The eventual decay of which is noticeable.
If you say 「This is the most charming」, you have failed as a prospect for the future consort.
(At any case, what’s left is 『The Advisement of Klingbeil Duke and Duchess』 and 『Dr. Vogler’s Studies』)
As Bianca compared the two paintings, she frowned.
The depicted Klingbeil couple held self-confident and dignified expressions, but their clothes are too simple. Particularly the mistress, who wore a style of pants that seemed like it was more suited for horse riding. Should you choose clever wits, or femininity, it is a difficult problem.
If a person has 「modesty and simplicy」 as their virtues, they will pick this painting. However, you will lose points in being suitably 「feminine and graceful.」
The final one, Dr. Vogler’s attire is particularly that of a simple scholar. However, if you look closely, the black cape that he is wearing has special embroidery for the area of Savarin, and above all, the overwhelming amount books in the background are a symbol of knowledge.
Particularly, the doctor’s book that he’s reaching for is the first of several volumes of books that had their title written down in the ancient Eland language. Although she had written the characters before, even Bianca couldn’t read it, although it is understood that it was an exceedingly rare thing.
(Natalia Onee-sama is especially proud in her strong education. Because of that point, I’m sure that it will definitely be Dr. Vogler’s. Leonora, somehow or another, pick Vogler’s painting!
Bianca unconsciously gripped both of her hands and prayed in the young girl’s direction.
On the other side, Albert as well, just like Bianca, went through the same thought process and first dropped 『Tom Müller’s Consort』 from the choices.
However, being more studied than his sister, he realized the trap the laid within 『Dr. Vogler’s Studies』
However, knowing that it’s a matter that is hard to notice by women, he somewhat understood Natalia’s intentions and decided to keep to himself.
Moreover, after they met, she would always astonish him with how pleasant she made him felt. So indeed, he is curious as to just which picture she would choose as well.
(If it’s her, she would probably be able to give a surprising answer since she’s not bound by our way of thinking.)
As the Prince fixedly stared at the young girl, his neighbor, Natalia also stays silent with crossed arms.
Now then, while the three people behind him intently stared at him, Leo carelessly thinks,
(Whoa, it’s such a realistic painting. Wow. So realistic, amazing.)
Extremely infantile impressions were made.
For Leo, a painting was a painting. No matter how extraordinarily beautiful, how prominently realistic it is, staring at a picture isn’t going to fill your belly.
However, since Natalia asked 「which painting depicts the most valuable thing」 that more or less gave him enough motivation to try to appreciate the paintings.
(In short, which painting looks like it’s the most expensive is what she’s asking.)
Hmm. With the eyes of a falcon, Leo zeroed in on the painting.
Currently, Leo has completely turned into Ricard’s most critical pawnshop keeper, taking the stance of someone who’s going to completely drive down prices.
First, the thing that set off Leo’s buyer sense was, of course, Tom Müller’s Consort.
Big decorative gems, seven of them. A cloth that wrapped the whole body, inlaid with smaller decorative jewelry here and there, Leo quickly assessed. The flower arrangements can’t be resold so it might have value in making it a pressed flower. The candlestick pedestal has a gem embedded in it, that can be gouged out and sold in the antique market.
Of course, the table can also be resold as is. Moreover, the wallpaper, and flooring material –
(Mm, mm. This wallpaper is quite nice, isn’t it? However, unfortunately, it’s just not big enough. For a wallpaper, it has to be big enough to cover an entire wall of a house, the satisfaction has to be factored into the price – Alright, ten small copper coins. Is what he would say, that stingy old man.)
Remembering his past experiences, Leo was able to make an assessment with a strict feeling. All in all, worth about three silver coins he thought.
The next painting he looked at was Dr. Vogler’s. If the densely packed bookshelf books were sold, they would definitely make some money.
(Particularly that book with the large spine. It’s worn out but that looks like the Eland language. Uhm, what’s written there? 『Mi, Da, Sa, …』)
Leo suddenly turned back to Natalia.
Leo’s heart pounded as he looked at her, but conversely, she returned with a curious gaze. Probably, she doesn’t know the meaning of this title.
(Now that I think about it, surprisingly, the Eland language is a treasured classic among nobles. Being about to read it is a symbol of being cultured.)
The small country of Eland was destroyed many decades before the Weiz Empire was founded. The territory was small, but it is said to be the birthplace of the spirits, where the religion was founded along with its country. Due to its refined culture and language, the people in the empire longed for their knowledge.
However, for Leo who had an Elander childhood friend who escaped the ravages of war, Eland was not some old classical language, but something he had become quite familiar with.
Especially because he needed to take part in certain circumstances, he had seriously studied the Eland language for a period of time. To the level where he’d probably be more fluent in Eland than the Weiz language in his current state caused by the curse.
(…Um. This level of book, well. Probably would be pretty cheap. The contents are the contents after all. Well, two silver coins plus a couple of copper coins, probably.)
Leo calmly passed judgment.
「Leonora? Is something wrong?」
Feeling that Leo was acting a little suspicious, Natalia raised her voice.
Leo refused with a soft voice saying 「Nothing」 and decided that he should give his conclusion soon.
News spread quickly that the charming Prince Albert who held a captivating smile had visited the room of Leonora von Harkenberg. For what reason, they did not know, but various guesses were made.
Such as to apologize for the reckless actions of his sister, for example.
After that day, the times in which the prince seemed to direct a meaningful gaze towards the girl has increased. That was the cause for the rumors.
However, rather than receiving looks of jealous, their surroundings warmly gazed on as the Prince’s gaze seem to be captivated by the girl’s gentle nature, rather than her beautiful looks. As for the girl, they found it quite cute that she would sneakily peek at the Prince’s chest area from time to time.
However, on the other side, there were also people who held quite a restless gaze upon the two.
One was the someone who wanted the common-bred marquis daughter for their faction, Oscar Bernstain. He saw a chance after Bianca had antagonized the girl, however, the wind out of his sails was quickly taken away by the Prince who swiftly moved to apologize, so, for now, he remained still.
And then, one more party was,
「Quite the troublesome thing it is, the disease called love.」
Uttered the young daughter of the duke while in her own room, surrounded by numerous books. Her name, Natalia von Klingbeil.
As she sipped on her soon to be lukewarm black tea, she uttered a soft sigh.
Since she has already retired her servants for the day, the only things around her were a mountain of books and a large bookcase. Rather than the look of a young girl, she held an expression closer to that of a refined scholar or politician. Natalia was deep in thought while staring into space.
「Leonora von Harkenberg. For the prince – no, for this Weiz empire, is she a benefit, or will she be a detriment, I wonder.」
The reason for her contemplation was of course due to the girl who had captured the attention of her dear cousin.
It’s been two days since Albert had visited her room to apologize on his sister’s behalf. When she met him that day during his work in the student council, he had held the brightest smile that Natalia had ever seen as he rambled on about the girl.
(It’s been so long since he talked so much about another person.) Natalia thought.
Because of his excellent features and cool attitude, along with his blessing of the gold coin, her cousin had always been the center of never-ending attention. However, recently he has completely forgotten the real nature of such people, always scheming to curry favor.
The more someone is showered with love, the less value they will receive from that love. As such, gradually it becomes difficult for someone like that to feel empathy. Natalia felt that Albert always wore a calm fake smile, concealing his cold indifferent emotions.
And so, what happened.
Ever since he visited her room, all he does is talk about her with a glitter in his eyes, like a love-struck child. Everywhere she went, his eyes seem to follow as well.
Of course, for the tens of thousands of people who approach Albert for political reasons, they have yet to notice this change in him. But Natalia could tell that there was a budding feeling of love growing inside him.
(Her social status isn’t a problem. Weiz’s sword and shield, the daughter of the Harkenberg marquis. Needless to say about her beauty, it would hard to believe she was raised in the lower city when looking at her manners. And if the Prince’s words are to believed, her disposition is also acceptable.)
However, Natalia frowned.
(A common bred female student, in a relationship with the first prince? It’s as if the Disaster of Flora is happening all over again.)
That was one way to look at it.
If that’s the case, then the one who would fulfill Claudia’s past role would be herself, Natalia thought.
However, different from Claudia, Natalia didn’t really feel any romantic love for Albert. In fact, for her cousin who hasn’t had the best relationships with his peers, she wanted him to find someone he could truly rely on.
So perhaps, no, because of that very reason, it can’t be helped that she is intensely critical of every girl who approaches Albert.
(Leonora von Harkenberg.)
Natalia narrowed her mature Auburn eyes.
「I shall see for myself.」
***
Bianca walked down a broad corridor in an elegant manner, befitting of her status. As she notices the form of a certain beautiful girl, she took a deep breath.
「I apologize for before, I apologize for before…alright, I can do this.」
Although Bianca always held a proud confident look in her eyes, today, a shadow of doubt slightly seeped into its gaze.
She had invited the girl she had wronged a couple of days ago – Leonora von Harkenberg, to talk in the hallway, to apologize to her.
Usually, there would be no need for someone of Bianca’s stature and standing to apologize to someone who was both younger and of lower social status than her.
However, after being reprimanded by the girl’s servant that day as to the severity of her misdemeanor, Bianca felt incredibly bitter regret. Aside from being a little willful, Bianca was not someone who dwells on age and status. She held a straightforward and noble heart.
「Bianca-sama.」
At last, the young girl had arrived in the corridor, at Bianca’s designated location. However, Bianca was timidly petrified.
「Thank you very much!」
Today as well, the girl was wearing her trademark thin dark dress, and for some reason started to express gratitude with a bright smile on her face.
「Thank you…?」
「That sachet. You use it, for me.」
「Eh? Ah」
After seeing where her thin pale fingertips were pointing, Bianca realized. Bianca had been unconsciously gripping the sachet that her brother had delivered to her. Although it was a sachet, it was quite petite and had beautiful embroidery. Recently, Bianca had been using it not only in her bedroom but carrying it around as a charm as well. The soft aroma from the bag seemed to invoke a relaxing atmosphere, similar to the person herself who made it.
「This is…I got it from my brother. Um, I appreciate it.」
「No, Bianca-sama, hold on to it. I am very happy.」
Thinking about the profits that it will bring, Leo showed a broad smile.
That’s right. As expected, after Prince Albert took the sachet at that time, it received the effect of being a brand worthy of the imperial family. Thanks to that, Leo’s entire inventory is practically due to be sold out. The profit will be more than he had ever imagined. However, being sold out also gives it a premium brand feel, so if he were to up production, the profits would be unimaginable. While thinking of such things, Leo grinned wildly.
「Oh you are just…」
For Bianca who had no idea of Leo’s boorish goals, she was incredibly touched that the girl was happy about that fact that she received her exquisite handmade sachet, even after all the bullying she had received. Before she realized, Bianca had both hands of the young girl in her grasp.
And then,
「I’m sorry. I really did a really horrible thing the other day. Somehow, please forgive me.」
The words of apology finally were able to come out of her mouth.
「Forgive…? Bianca-sama, didn’t do anything wrong. Rather, I, received lots of stuff.」
「What are you saying! Ah…Okay, that’s fine, I heard from Onii-sama about how you think. I wanted you to recognize that I did a terrible thing to you but that wasn’t the only reason I invited you here today. The reason, I called you here was…Leonora. If you don’t want you to join any factions then, um…」
After rattling off everything at a speed almost too fast to understand, Bianca swiftly covered her lips with her hands. Not familiar with this sort of situation, Bianca was incredibly embarrassed.
While averting her stiffened and nervous face, Bianca shouted out her next words.
「I, um, will let you…please become my friend!」
Nearby, a couple of students held their breaths as they watched a scene that seemed to be something out of a page in a romantic novel.
—- Bianca-sama, that was a pretty questionable phrasing…!
—- Leonora-sama, somehow, please sympathize with her!
Towards the strange proclamation of friendship that the Imperial Princess had made to the marchioness girl, the people nearby had clearly understood. On the contrary, the young girl was bobbed her head as if she didn’t understand what was going on.
「Huh…」
Leo blinked rapidly.
For Leo who was from the lower city, there was no need to go out of your way to declare your friendship, but nevertheless, it wasn’t like it was a bad thing for Leo to become friends with Bianca.
Well, anyway, to start with, the world in which Bianca and Leo lived in were way too different, so he didn’t feel a need to associate with them. A proposal like 「I want to be your friend」 seemed more like a joke, so Leo was quite shocked.
「Well, um, I look forward –」
To being your friend, was what Leo wanted to finish saying, but,
「Leonora!」
He was interrupted by a cheerful voice.
Today as well, his blond hair dazzled like the sunlight, it was Prince Albert.
「Onii-sama…」
「Prince Albert…」
Turning around, Leo showed a mixed expression. For Leo, Albert was someone he was grateful for advertising his sachet, also someone who was holding onto his future gold coin if he’s lucky, but also someone who could spell the end for Leo’s life as well.
Every time Leo met eyes with him, he wondered if he should be shyly rubbing his hands together about the profits, or approach him to take advantage of him, or if he should be running away in terror. Which one, he did not know.
After all, today as well, all he could do was stare at the gold coin hanging from Albert’s neck with an indecisive expression.
I want to steal the coin and then run away from the academy. But at the same time, life is also precious. A difficult problem, this is.
Suddenly, Leo’s school life had gotten incredibly complicated.
Then, the figure of someone walking behind Albert could be seen.
「How do you do, Bianca-sama. And also – Leonora von Harkenberg.」
With neat tied up flaxen hair and auburn eyes that had an intellectual look, it was Albert’s cousin.
Natalia von Klingbeil.
「Good day to you, Natalia Onee-sama. Onii-sama as well. What brings you here?」
「Well, it’s like this. When you summoned Leonora, my servant came running to me with a pale expression. Obviously, I would be worried so I came here.」
「Hmph! Why would there be a need for Onii-sama’s servant to come running to you for?」
To the frustrated Bianca, Natalia replied with a sharp tone.
「Can’t you understand, Bianca-sama. The past few days, haven’t you been quite restless and confrontational with your female attendants and your friends. In such a state, if you call out the young Leonora, then…」
Bianca felt like she was hit by her words.
「T-that is… Anyway, I just came here to apologize to her. Besides, I haven’t been acting confrontational!」
「Oh, were you not aware.」
Natalia let out a deep sigh, and then turned and faced towards the girl who was left out of the conversation.
「Please, forgive me for not introducing myself earlier. I am the daughter of Duke Klingbeil, Natalia. I work alongside Albert-sama in this school’s student council. Bianca-sama is supposed to be the head of the junior class, but if there’s something you find it hard to discuss with her, feel free to come to us.」
「Natalia Onee-sama!」
Bianca shouted in rejection.
Albert moved to soothe his enraged sister, however her friend did not do anything. Upon seeing the situation, Leo was quick to realize the relationship they have.
Socially, Albert and Bianca were higher than Natalia, but Albert held Natalia in higher regard – speaking of which I think I heard from someone that they were cousins –. Bianca can’t seem to defy the older Natalia as well.
Knowing who they should please and who to not displease is important for living in the lower city.
Leo floated a slight grin.
「Thank you very much, Natalia-sama. I too, apologize, late introduction. I am called Leonora. Also, this is, a handmade sachet. If Natalia-sama accept, super happy.」
With a respectful bow, Leo calculatingly tried to get to know Natalia, pushing his sachet onto her in the meanwhile.
「My, quite a fine greeting that was, Leonora. Moreover, this sachet has quite a nice aroma. Is it the same one as the one Albert-sama carries? I wanted one as well.」
As Natalia chuckled with a soft smile, there was no question that she was related to Albert, she had very well-ordered features. Presented with the opportunity for more promotional service from beautiful girls, Leo was finally in a good mood.
While imagining the coming profits for his sachet production business, Natalia clapped her hands like she was trying to say 「Oh, that’s right!」
「Hey, Leonora. Do you still have some time? Further down this corridor, through that passageway lies quite a nice gallery.」
「Gallery?」
「That’s right. One similar in quality to that of the imperial household’s, it has various paintings, jewelry, and more on display. It’s usually hard to get in through the gate, but if you are a student you get to visit it for free.」
Where Natalia was directing to was a large iron door further down the corridor. Generally, Leo keeps an eye out for splendid ornaments, but once before when he went exploring, the door was kept tightly shut and he saw people being barred from entry so he didn’t try. So once he heard the word「Jewelry」 his money sensor booted up.
Although he knows he probably won’t be able to receive anything from inside, he loved anything that could be considered 「Treasure.」 If he can admire them for free of charge, that would be incredibly nice.
「Will go!」
Leo had immediately answered, but the Weizsäcker brother and sister held a look of disapproval.
「Natalia…?」
「Natalia Onee-sama, what are you planning? If it’s a tour guide, I who am the head of the junior class should be the one to do it.」
The brother couldn’t seem to quite read Natalia’s intentions. The sister plainly disapproved of the notion, but Natalia simply turned to them and smiled.
「If that’s the case, join us. Albert-sama, and Natalia-sama as well, if you like, please feel free to join us.」
If worst comes to worst, they can take matters into their own hands, is what Natalia seemed to signal as she held her hand out towards the passageway. Albert and Natalia both gave each other a meaningful look and then proceeded towards the door.
Once opened, the other side of the door was a room lined with numerous masterpieces of paintings.
「Wha……」
Leo had let out a joyful voice but it quickly faded.
Leo’s most beloved items were things such as money, gold, and also money. There was nothing of that sort there.
「…Treasure…?」
Towards Leo low murmur, Natalia chuckled and answered.
「Fufu, isn’t it splendid. It is the latest collection of the renowned artist Gebhardt. – Oh, the decorative swords and jewelry aren’t here. Most likely, it’s currently lent out to an art museum somewhere.」
Leo hung his head in disappointment.
He loved glittering things like he loved the gold coin, but paintings were in a different category. Even if you call it a famous painting, without a price tag attached to it or something, Leo can’t determine the value of it at all.
「Look, over here. These are my especially favorite work. 『The Advisement of Klingbeil Duke and Duchess』『Tom Müller’s Consort』 and also 『Dr. Vogler’s Studies』」
Natalia pointed at the portraits with a smile on her face, while Leo viewed the paintings with hollow eyes. No matter how pretty it is, a painting is a painting. A pig that can’t fly is just a pig. A picture that you can’t in your hand like a gold coin is just a splatter of colors on a canvas.
At that time, quickly figuring out Natalia’s intentions, Albert frowned and started to speak.
「Natalia. What’s the point of showing her portraits of nobles who she’s not related to. – Leonora, I apologize. This place is always open, so if you like you can come here next time and slowly admire the pictures. Besides, today –」
「Well, Leonora.」
However, the Prince’s words were interrupted by Natalia’s sharp interjection.
「I wanted to ask, Leonora. Reflected through your Harkenberg eyes, which painting do you find is the most desirable.」
「Desirable?」
「Yes, as a student of the Weiz empire academy, as the daughter of a noble, – and as someone who can potentially stand with Prince Albert, what is it that you place your importance in.」
After those words, Bianca finally understood the intentions of her cousin.
Natalia wanted to examine this girl. The culmination of a noble’s training, assessing the value of paintings.
(That can’t be! Leonora was raised in the lower city. If it was a stained glass painting in a church that would be one thing, how would she possibly be able to evaluate portraits when she wasn’t a high ranking noble or ever had to chance to see them?)
Bianca bit her lips. Once before she herself had also done the same thing to eliminate women who were trying to approach her brother. But to do this to a girl who had no one to depend on in the past while Natalia was raised with all the support in the world was too much.
「Natalia Onee-sama, please wait. What’s with this method of doing things…」
「Method of doing things? Now, what do you mean? I am simply asking Leonora on her impressions of the paintings.」
Natalia’s eyes squinted sharply towards Bianca.
「In a large open room, not a private one. And without any other people other than the parties involved, isn’t that right?」
「…….!」
Towards that expression, the princess bit her lips. The brother could also do nothing but show a bitter expression.
What Natalia meant, was that someone who invited the girl to her private property to hold a salon in public with her followers in tow while humiliating said girl should keep their mouth shut.
However, no matter how unpopular this place was, it was still open to people coming and going freely. Especially, because of the tense atmosphere, the four people were giving off, the surrounding people in the room were obviously stealthily straining their ears to listen in. If she were to give an absurd answer in this situation, it would obviously lead to her becoming an object of scorn.
「Natalia, stop. Leonora, this isn’t something you need to worry about, alright?」
「No. Paintings, will look.」
Albert looked to intervene in the situation, but the girl suddenly straightens her back and refused.
「Natalia-sama’s recommendation, are these right?」
Leo didn’t particularly understand Natalia’s intentions, nor did he feel the need to accept her challenge. It’s just that he’s able to view the paintings for free – There’s no way for him to determine the value of the paintings, but – for starters, taking a look and giving his impressions should be fine, Leo thought. In any case, he can simply straight shoot his impressions.
Looking at the beautiful girl who had her eyes straight ahead, Natalia once again commented.
「Wonderful, Leonora. – That’s right, my favorite ones are these three. They were created at around the same time, and the size is also about the same. In order to determine the value of the paintings, it would have to be by the contents of the creation, don’t you think? Which painting do you think is charming?」
「Charming.」
「Yes. That’s right, it would be good if you can express in words which painting depicts the most valuable thing, as well.」
With refined movement, Natalia presented the three paintings with her hand, and once again Leo carefully gazed upon them.
『The Advisement of Klingbeil Duke and Duchess』has hill hanging overhead in the background with a large wheat field and grass-eating sheep presented alongside the married noble couple dressed in a simple outfit. The painting seems to depict their relaxed state as if they were at home.
Guessing from the title, it’s probably Natalia’s parents or blood relatives. She resembled the two in the picture with their intellectual looks. With the calm autumn sunlight shining over their face, they held a facial expression brimming with self-confidence.
『Tom Müller’s Consort』showed a rather plump lady in the painting. With one look, you can see that she is high class, with jewelry decorated cloth wrapped around her whole body.
Even in the background table, you can see flowers and a gorgeous candle stand. She clearly wanted to express her prosperity in this picture.
『Dr. Vogler’s Studies』was a painting of an elderly man who held a hard to please expression. He stood in front of a wall of bookcases with his eyes tightly fixated on the large bulky books.
In each picture, it felt like the real person was right in front of them. Splendid literary style.
Bianca stood behind the girl and viewed the three paintings, and then she ground her teeth.
(This is a trap…)
As the imperial princess, she received special education and because of that, she is able to understand.
Her cousin wanted to completely knock down this girl who had most certainly never received an education in paintings.
Natalia asked for 「which painting depicts the most valuable thing.」 She wants to find out what Leonora herself valued the most, is her intention.
Averting her attention away from her cousin who was appraising the painting, Bianca herself also started to gaze at the picture.
The most famous masterpieces in the present day, Gebhardt’s three paintings.
At first glance, the colorful clothing and jewelry in are the most appealing and charming. However, if you give that answer, you will be disqualified from being a potential consort for Albert.
(Gebhardt was an expert painter, but at the same time was someone well versed in satire. This painting was described as unrivaled by the discerning eye of prime minister Klingbeil. Meaning, this is not just a mere portrait, but a caricature brimming with metaphor.)
Bianca squinted at 『Tom Müller’s Consort』
The silhouette of the seven gems covers the plump mistress is hidden by the glamorous cloth that covers her body. The gems symbolize the seven vices that the spirits loathe, the cloth that concealed that truth, represent ostentation.
Even on the table in the background, if you look closely, one of the flower petals have begun to wilt, and the flame on the candlestick is also flaky. It’s depicted to look as if it could go out at any moment by the faint shadow of the mistress.
Women who are overly extravagant and ostentatious, will in time lose both their beauty and their fortune, that is what it hints at.
Beauty propped up by avarice. The eventual decay of which is noticeable.
If you say 「This is the most charming」, you have failed as a prospect for the future consort.
(At any case, what’s left is 『The Advisement of Klingbeil Duke and Duchess』 and 『Dr. Vogler’s Studies』)
As Bianca compared the two paintings, she frowned.
The depicted Klingbeil couple held self-confident and dignified expressions, but their clothes are too simple. Particularly the mistress, who wore a style of pants that seemed like it was more suited for horse riding. Should you choose clever wits, or femininity, it is a difficult problem.
If a person has 「modesty and simplicy」 as their virtues, they will pick this painting. However, you will lose points in being suitably 「feminine and graceful.」
The final one, Dr. Vogler’s attire is particularly that of a simple scholar. However, if you look closely, the black cape that he is wearing has special embroidery for the area of Savarin, and above all, the overwhelming amount books in the background are a symbol of knowledge.
Particularly, the doctor’s book that he’s reaching for is the first of several volumes of books that had their title written down in the ancient Eland language. Although she had written the characters before, even Bianca couldn’t read it, although it is understood that it was an exceedingly rare thing.
(Natalia Onee-sama is especially proud in her strong education. Because of that point, I’m sure that it will definitely be Dr. Vogler’s. Leonora, somehow or another, pick Vogler’s painting!
Bianca unconsciously gripped both of her hands and prayed in the young girl’s direction.
On the other side, Albert as well, just like Bianca, went through the same thought process and first dropped 『Tom Müller’s Consort』 from the choices.
However, being more studied than his sister, he realized the trap the laid within 『Dr. Vogler’s Studies』
However, knowing that it’s a matter that is hard to notice by women, he somewhat understood Natalia’s intentions and decided to keep to himself.
Moreover, after they met, she would always astonish him with how pleasant she made him felt. So indeed, he is curious as to just which picture she would choose as well.
(If it’s her, she would probably be able to give a surprising answer since she’s not bound by our way of thinking.)
As the Prince fixedly stared at the young girl, his neighbor, Natalia also stays silent with crossed arms.
Now then, while the three people behind him intently stared at him, Leo carelessly thinks,
(Whoa, it’s such a realistic painting. Wow. So realistic, amazing.)
Extremely infantile impressions were made.
For Leo, a painting was a painting. No matter how extraordinarily beautiful, how prominently realistic it is, staring at a picture isn’t going to fill your belly.
However, since Natalia asked 「which painting depicts the most valuable thing」 that more or less gave him enough motivation to try to appreciate the paintings.
(In short, which painting looks like it’s the most expensive is what she’s asking.)
Hmm. With the eyes of a falcon, Leo zeroed in on the painting.
Currently, Leo has completely turned into Ricard’s most critical pawnshop keeper, taking the stance of someone who’s going to completely drive down prices.
First, the thing that set off Leo’s buyer sense was, of course, Tom Müller’s Consort.
Big decorative gems, seven of them. A cloth that wrapped the whole body, inlaid with smaller decorative jewelry here and there, Leo quickly assessed. The flower arrangements can’t be resold so it might have value in making it a pressed flower. The candlestick pedestal has a gem embedded in it, that can be gouged out and sold in the antique market.
Of course, the table can also be resold as is. Moreover, the wallpaper, and flooring material –
(Mm, mm. This wallpaper is quite nice, isn’t it? However, unfortunately, it’s just not big enough. For a wallpaper, it has to be big enough to cover an entire wall of a house, the satisfaction has to be factored into the price – Alright, ten small copper coins. Is what he would say, that stingy old man.)
Remembering his past experiences, Leo was able to make an assessment with a strict feeling. All in all, worth about three silver coins he thought.
The next painting he looked at was Dr. Vogler’s. If the densely packed bookshelf books were sold, they would definitely make some money.
(Particularly that book with the large spine. It’s worn out but that looks like the Eland language. Uhm, what’s written there? 『Mi, Da, Sa, …』)
Leo suddenly turned back to Natalia.
Leo’s heart pounded as he looked at her, but conversely, she returned with a curious gaze. Probably, she doesn’t know the meaning of this title.
(Now that I think about it, surprisingly, the Eland language is a treasured classic among nobles. Being about to read it is a symbol of being cultured.)
The small country of Eland was destroyed many decades before the Weiz Empire was founded. The territory was small, but it is said to be the birthplace of the spirits, where the religion was founded along with its country. Due to its refined culture and language, the people in the empire longed for their knowledge.
However, for Leo who had an Elander childhood friend who escaped the ravages of war, Eland was not some old classical language, but something he had become quite familiar with.
Especially because he needed to take part in certain circumstances, he had seriously studied the Eland language for a period of time. To the level where he’d probably be more fluent in Eland than the Weiz language in his current state caused by the curse.
(…Um. This level of book, well. Probably would be pretty cheap. The contents are the contents after all. Well, two silver coins plus a couple of copper coins, probably.)
Leo calmly passed judgment.
「Leonora? Is something wrong?」
Feeling that Leo was acting a little suspicious, Natalia raised her voice.
Leo refused with a soft voice saying 「Nothing」 and decided that he should give his conclusion soon.
