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

Volume 2, Act 14: The Flantheim Houses Evening Party Part 1

Cordelia put on the dress that Nirupama had chosen for her and let Emina do her hair. Then, she sprayed the rose fragrance onto herself.

You seem tense, Ojou-sama.

Do I look that way?

Yes. Your face is all stiff.

Emina said that, just before Cordelia was about to leave the room. She observed her face in the mirror. Indeed, I might look tense. She realised that and took a deep breath; then she smelt the soft rose fragrance.

( Its alright. I can do it.)

She confirmed her appearance once again, and then went to the salon where her aunt was waiting.

Looks like your preparations went well, Cordelia.

Yes, its all thanks to Nirupama-obasamas lovely dress.

Fufu, youve said something really pleasing, but the dress is only shining because the raw materials are good, you know?

Nirupama, who had already finished getting ready, greeted Cordelia in high spirits. Nirupama was wearing a dark green dress. The design was relatively calm, but when Nirupama wore it, she added appeal to the dress. She probably dresses well.

Then, Nirupama put her hands on Cordelias shoulder.

Ufufu Ill show you this angel

Those words were probably towards a certain countess, whom shed mentioned the other day. Nirupama was muttering in a voice that sounded like she was cursing someone. Of course, Cordelia pretended that she didnt hear it. Besides, Nirupama only acted like that for a second.

Its a nice fragrance, isnt it? Its like youre in a garden.

Thank you very much. Oba-sama, youre also using perfume.

Of course. Its a present from my cute niece, after all. I didnt think you would make something like this.

Nirupama was wearing the gentle orange fragrance.

The scents mixing together while they were near, in order for that not to happen, Cordelia had adjusted the essential oils, to some extent, while they were being refined.

She had devised them so that the fragrances would only mix lightly with others, and not too strongly, when they got within a certain distance of each other. She could faintly smell the other persons fragrance and there was no discomfort.

Nirupama looked at Cordelia again and muttered in satisfaction.

But if you had told me sooner, then I would have made an orange dress How should I say this, I wonder if theyll laugh at me for not dressing my age.

If its Oba-sama, then youll suit dresses in any colour.

Thanks. Cordelias so cute. If youre troubled over something, you can always rely on your aunt, okay?

Thank you very much.

So, if you make a new balm, let me try it too, alright? Ill advertise it for you.

Nirupama spoke while winking and Cordelia smiled and nodded.

Nirupamas smile deepened and she suddenly looked at the entrance of the salon.

I completely forgot. Elvis-sama asked us to meet him at the entrance once were ready.

Otou-sama did? Has he finished getting ready?

Its better to say that he hasnt. He came back from the castle and told me he wasnt going to change. So, I thought about talking with him in the salon until you came, but I wonder if he thought I was being too noisy. He told me hed wait at the entrance and left the salon.

Is that so?

Elvis-sama is really always unsociable; I cant even imagine him being sociable.

Nirupama said that, and walked gracefully towards the entrance. She didnt look like she was rushing at all. So, Cordelia held Nirupamas hands and sped up.

If Otou-sama is waiting, then we must hurry.

However, Cordelia couldnt make Nirupama walk faster with her power. Rather, Nirupama was watching her while smiling. On top of that, the servants, who saw them, were watching them warmly. Cordelia thought that her behaviour was surely childish, but she didnt let go off Nirupamas hand.

Elvis was waiting; she had to get her to pick up the pace. However, Nirupama didnt change her pace at all.

Weve kept you waiting, Elvis-sama.

Im sorry for making you wait, Otou-sama.

Its fine.

Elvis replied briefly at what Nirupama and Cordelia said. Like Nirupama had stated earlier, Elvis was unsociable today. Rather, Cordelia felt that he was a little grumpy.

(I heard hes busy at work, I wonder if hes tired.)

Or was he tired of talking to Oba-sama, like shed said he was. Or did he think it was troublesome to go to the Flantheim House today?

I dont know why hes in such a bad mood, but if the answer lies within one of the things I guessed, then I guess it cant be helped. Cordelia decided to visit him with a hot compress after they returned from the evening party.

But in contrast to Cordelia, Nirupama looked like she didnt mind at all.

Anyway, look at Cordelia. Isnt she cute?

Elvis responded with silence to Nirupamas lively voice.

Even if it was Cordelia, Elvis had never complimented her before, by calling her cute or anything like that, so if that did happen, then she thought that her heart would jump in surprise. Its enough that he didnt say I dont suit it.

She thought that, but Nirupama pointed her right index finger at Elvis and gave him some advice.

Elvis-sama, even if its embarrassing, you should compliment women when its necessary. Please understand a womans heart.

Hey, Elvis-sama. Cant you tell your daughter that shes cute?

Oba-sama, thats enough

It was pointless to press Elvis while he was expressionless and not talking Or rather, Cordelia felt sorry for him. Humans had their fortes and weaknesses, so it was pointless to try and force someone to say something.

You look nice in it, at least.

Even though he had said it in a mechanical voice, Cordelia doubted her ears, since some unbelievable words came out of his mouth. Elvis, the person in question, turned his back and started walking after saying, Lets go.

Argh, Elvis-sama! Just say you look nice!! What do you mean by at least?!

Well, such a trifling thing didnt matter to Cordelia.

( Otou-sama complimented me!)

It was inevitable that she felt amazed rather than impressed. However, it wasnt like she wasnt happy. The corners of her mouth rose up naturally. She followed Nirupama and boarded the carriage.

Nirupama talked a lot inside of the carriage, too. She talked about different sweets and fashions, and Cordelia found them really interesting, though Elvis didnt seem like he was listening at all.

In rare cases, Nirupama would ask Elvis something and he responded with only three words: Yeah, No, and I dont know.

( His interactions with Oba-sama are exactly like with Marquis Flantheim.)

I certainly feel that the way they talk to Elvis is somewhat similar. If so, then its no wonder Otou-samas replies are the same Does Otou-sama have something that attracts lively people?

The carriage, with the three inside, arrived at the Flantheim residence while she was thinking.

The Flantheim residence was a white mansion, and it looked like it had been cut out from a part of the castle. The Flantheim mansion was bigger than the Pameradia mansion, but the garden was smaller.

(Its a mansion)

Her own residence was also a mansion, but she was surprised at the different atmosphere it gave off.

(Vernoux-sama, youre really a Marquis son arent you)

Of course, it wasnt like she doubted that, but she would feel strange if she heard that Vernoux, who suited the word capricious, lived there.

A lot of people were already gathered for the evening party and everyone was dressed in gorgeous outfits.

Cordelia followed after Elvis and her aunt while listening to the noisy people. Her heart, which should have calmed down when they left the mansion, started pulsing faster.

Oh my, its Countess Weltoria. She looks as pretty as always.

Its rare to see her with Earl Pameradia.

Is that child the Earls daughter?

Shes around the same age as the prince, isnt she?

Cordelia tried desperately not to tense her face up in that situation, where she became the focus of attention just by walking.

Smile, smiling is important.

It shouldnt be a problem if she just walked quietly with a smile. In fact, Elvis didnt seem like he cared about the rumours and Nirupama smiled with confidence. She couldnt say she got cold feet while looking at the two. She once again straightened her back and looked forward.

Then, she heard a familiar voice.

Oh! This is a rare combination.

The voice belonged to Marquis Flantheim; Leonard. It seemed that he was walking around the venue.

I havent seen you for a long time, Leonard-sama.

Its been a while since weve met.

Nirupama and Cordelia gave their greetings and the Marquis nodded in satisfaction. Then, he looked over at Elvis, who didnt say a thing.

Elvis, you seem to be in a bad mood?

Oh, the worst.

It seems like you have a lot of work to do lately, you must be tired. I thought one of your sons would come in your place today.

The Marquis placed his hand on Elviss shoulder with a face that said that he knew that Elvis was attending for his daughter. However, his hand was immediately brushed away, as if Elvis was brushing an insect off his shoulder.

But, the Marquis still had a smile on his face. It was as if to say that he was having fun.

Cordelia saw Nirupama concealing her mouth with her fan and laughing at the exchange between the two.

Leonard-sama, isnt Cordelia so cute today?

Nirupama said as she talked to the Marquis.

Yeah. Shes so cute that it makes me think that I want a daughter of my own.

You wont.

(Otou-sama, hes just saying that out of politeness.)

Cordelia felt reassured from that fast rebuke, and she had a smile on her face as she watched the two talk. Of course, it sounded like a joke from just those words, but for some strange reason it no longer sounded like a joke when Elvis said it. Elviss response seemed to have amused the Marquis more.

That is up to your daughter. Theres a chance for her to become Vernouxs wife.

None.

(Otou-sama, thats a joke too.)

Rather, theres no way it could be anything but a joke, Cordelia thought as she endured and kept the smile on her face. In the first place, something like marriage with Vernoux was impossible unless he changed how he viewed her.

Cordelia also didnt think it was possible and could only say, What stupid things are you saying? That was why she could be relieved and think of him as just a friend.

It wasnt necessary for her to worry about it in the first place, but she did hate herself for taking a moment to imagine it, because of the Marquis words.

No, nope, its impossible.

But, youre also beautiful today Countess Weltoria. You should meet Sara later, shell be glad to see you after so long.

He said that and looked towards a beautiful woman exchanging greetings with the guests with Vernoux.

The woman with the same blonde hair as Vernoux was Sara Flantheim. She was Vernouxs mother and the Marquis wife. This was the first time Cordelia had met her, but she knew who she was straight away.

She didnt think they looked like each other, but she could tell that the adult Vernoux had some of her features.

Oh my, are you leaving all the work to your wife and skipping out, Leonard-sama?

No. I just wanted to go greet my close friends. Thats why I saw you two earlier.

How convenient for you. Please greet the guests while Sara and I talk. I cant speak normally with her if Im getting blocked.

Women spend a lot of time talking, after all But, okay. If that makes Sara happy then Ill do it.

The Marquis started walking towards Sara. Nirupama followed but Elvis didnt move.

Im going to go talk over there for a bit.

Okay. Follow me, Cordelia. Youre going to congratulate your friend, arent you?

A couple of men with frowns on their faces stood in the direction that Elvis was headed towards. She didnt think they would talk about complicated things, considering the place, but Cordelia concluded that it wasnt something that she should interrupt.

Cordelia walked to where Nirupama was, and they headed towards Vernoux.

Come to think of it, youre using a very rare scent today. Did you import some rare things?

No? I havent seen them in foreign kingdoms either.

Nirupama immediately answered the Maquis, who was tilting his head in confusion while walking. She looked proud even though her mouth was concealed by the fan. The Marquis immediately understood her expression.

So, the way to obtain it is a secret?

Do you also want to use it, Marquis-sama?

No, I thought it would make Sara happy. Dont you think it would make a nice gift?

I see. Its certainly nice.

Contrary to his favourable question, Nirupama evaded the answer. He smiled wryly.

It doesnt seem like youll tell me that easily.

For now, that is. But, youll find out soon.

Cordelia reached her destination while listening to the two talk.

Sara. Countess Weltoria is here.

Oh my, Nirupama! I wanted to see you.

Its been a while, Sara. Thank you for inviting me. I came with my dull brother-in-law and cute niece today.

Cordelia spoke at Nirupamas introduction.

Its nice to meet you. I am Cordelia Enna Pameradia. Thank you for inviting me today.

Youre exaggerating when you say something like invite. Im especially thankful that you brought Elvis-sama with you. My husband would sulk if he didnt come. He was pouting when he heard that Elvis-sama wouldnt come because he was busy.

Sara spoke jokingly and stared at Cordelia while narrowing her eyes.

Cordelia-san, Im so happy to meet you. Ive heard a lot about you from my husband and Vernoux. Thank you for getting along with Vernoux.

But, the person in question, her son, said disgruntledly.

Mother. That expression is a little

Oh my, are you embarrassed?

Cordelia, at least, didnt think he sounded embarrassed at all. If his mouth spreading in a thin line was him being embarrassed, then his embarrassment was a little disappointing.

However, Saras heart-warming aura didnt change. Probably because her aura was soft. The guests were mostly under the Marquis care, but the ladies werent far away from Sara.

On the other hand, Cordelia felt that the ladies gazes were more focused on Nirupama than Sara.

(Their attentiveness is very high.)

It was an evening party hosted by the Flantheim House, so it wasnt strange if Sara and the Marquis received everyones attention. However, if Nirupama received more attention than them, then that just went to show how much the ladies couldnt keep their eyes off her.

Cordelia didnt doubt it but, Nirupama being in the lead at fashion wasnt just an exaggeration. And, if she drew that much attention then the people around them could probably hear what they were talking about.

So, they couldnt talk much about their interests and preferences there, since it would be widely known.

Of course, that was certainly because Nirupama stood out, in the first place, and she had the power to make those around her want to imitate her.

Amidst that, Sara met Cordelias eyes and tilted her head in confusion.

Cordelia widened her eyes because such a cute action was being performed by a woman with a calm aura.

Whats wrong, Sara-sama?

Cordelia-san, youre very unusual, arent you?

Unusual, you say?

Yes, the scent of flowers. Nirupama is also emitting a nice smell.

Cordelia felt as if the people around them toned down their voices at Saras question. Then, they all turned to look at Nirupama.

Nirupama is keeping a secret, that was what they were thinking.

Nirupama put the fan to her mouth.

Are you interested in it, Sara?

Yes. Because Cordelia-san smells like shes in a flower garden. Of course, I also like Nirupamas refreshing scent. Its a citrusy smell.

Youre right.

But, its not like youre wearing orange juice and shes not covered in flowers either, right?

Sara moved her body and confronted Nirupama.

Nirupama removed the fan from her mouth and grinned. The answer that Nirupama muttered while having everyones attention on her was simple.

Its a secret.

Sara and the surrounding peoples eyes widened at that sentence.

However, Nirupama immediately continued, But,

It wont be a secret if Cordelia says its alright to tell you, Sara.

If Cordelia-san does?

Yes. This child is very smart, and she is my niece who has a promising future. Shes also familiar with beauty products, you know?

Nirupama placed her hand on Cordelias head as she said that. Cordelia knew that the surrounding ladies were holding their breaths from this conversation.

The grin stayed on Nirupamas face as she turned her gaze at Cordelia, and Cordelia knew what she was aiming for.

Nirupama didnt answer the Marquis when hed asked because she was looking for the most opportune time to do it.

And she was trying to give Cordelia the advantage. Nirupamas declaration sounded like she was recognising Cordelia for her talents. More than anything, by announcing this with Cordelias permission, she was spreading Cordelias network.

Aunt is mean. Theres no reason for me to keep a secret from Vernouxs mother.

Sara widened her eyes in surprise at Cordelias words and then rubbed Vernouxs head over and over again.

Im glad that Im Vernouxs mother.

Mother, please stop. My hairs getting messy.

But, Sara-sama. Ive only just started my research. Therefore This is a secret between the three of us, Sara-sama, Nirupama-obasama and me.

Of course, if thats what you wish Cordelia-san. Lets have a secret tea party next time with Nirupama, just the three of us.

Mother, my hairs getting messy so please stop.

Vernoux said it again, but Saras hands didnt stop so, he forcibly stopped it with his right hand.

Oh my, Vernoux has gotten really strong. Im happy.

Im glad youre happy.

Cordelia-san, lets decide on the date of the tea party next time.

Yes, I look forward to it.

Sara, who proposed that with a smile, was genuinely happy. This was the most favourable development for Cordelia. Therefore, she immediately forgot about her pity for Vernoux, who was fixing his hair.

Isnt that nice, Cordelia?

Yes. Im very happy.

Not only Cordelia, but Nirupama was also in a good mood.

(Well, of course.)

Of course, I think that Oba-sama is happy for me. However, it wasnt like this had nothing to do with Nirupama at all.

If you want to know the secret behind the fragrance then ask Cordelia

Just by saying that, it was impossible for people, who had nothing to do with Cordelia, to quickly ask her about it. Even if Nirupama recognised Cordelia, she was still a child and she had very few chances to appear in public.

Like that, a lot of nobles would probably ask Nirupama to introduce them to her.

(If its like that, then things would work out well for Oba-sama too.)

But then, it also worked well for Cordelia if they went through Nirupama. No matter how much of a chance it was to broaden her network, the amount of information she had on people was too small. It was better for Nirupama to choose people who took precedence over others.

Nirupama had more knowledge than Elvis about womens society.

(But, theyre reacting more to it than I thought they would.)

Shed thought that it would be easier to spread the aroma if she got the interest of the Marquis and his wife, who were close to the Royal Family, but she didnt think that it would attract that much attention.

(I might have sown more seeds than I thought I would.)

However, if I arrange the stage like this, then Ill have to complete a product that would measure up to their expectation.

(I have to be more fired up.)

I also have to get psyched up.

Sara uttered the same thing Cordelia was thinking.

Cordelia looked up at Sara in surprise.

Its my first time entertaining such a cute guest. Im looking forward to it.

Ill prepare a lot of sweets, she said, and Cordelia was relieved. She thought that her own thoughts had been unintentionally transmitted to Sara.

(But, I cant believe that Sara-sama is going to prepare a lot of sweets for me.)

The reason why Vernoux often came to the Pameradia mansion was because he couldnt eat sweets at home. That reason was surely because Sara didnt like sweets. Therefore, she was super happy.

She built up a lot of expectations and achieved one of her goals for the day.

So, mother will be preparing sweets? Im really jealous of you.

Vernoux-sama. Happy birthday.

Thanks. I thought youd forgotten.

Vernoux, who shrugged as he said that, turned to face Sara.

Mother, I will leave for a bit. Dilly, can you come with me for a bit?

Huh? Yes. But I want to give you your gift before we leave.

Cordelia said that and held out her right hand that was clasped tightly. She opened it when Vernoux peeped at it curiously.

There were a lot of seeds in her hand. The seeds were oval and shone like jewels.

Dilly, this is Are you telling me to grow them?

I did think you would enjoy that, but you wouldnt be surprised, now would you?

Cordelia said as she threw the seeds at the ceiling. The seeds shone more brightly in the light.

What are you doing?

Please wait a moment.

Vernoux said that one sentence, while surprised, and Cordelia raised her hands and concentrated magic onto her fingertips. Then she fired it at the seeds.

The shining seeds popped and opened. At the same time, a number of flowers began floating in the air. The people around leaked out a shout of joy at the flowers which suddenly appeared.

This is?

Were you surprised? Its a wandering flower that blooms from magic.

Did you make it, Dilly?

Its a bit of an exaggeration to say that I made it.

Translator: Blushy

Editor: SenjiQ