IPBPBD 62🔐

chapter 62

Since Emilina had brought Countess Lazella in as her etiquette instructor, her days had been hectic.

In addition to the Countess, Lockbel had appointed a few more teachers to build her foundation in academics and refine her manners. With lessons scheduled in rotation, one after another, her days seemed to vanish in an instant.

The only relief was that the basic musical skills she had learned from Katie made it easier for her to keep up with the classes.

Still, that only meant she could follow along without too much trouble. In front of teachers who excelled in their respective fields, she was little more than a child showing off tricks.

Nevertheless, her willingness to learn and her persistence earned her constant praise from the instructors.

Especially in the field of basic academics, her aptitude astonished them.

A noblewoman of low birth, notorious for her family’s poverty—they naturally assumed Emilina’s education would be limited.

But Emilina shattered that stereotype, displaying a remarkable depth of knowledge.

She grasped one concept and immediately understood ten more, even offering insights that left her teachers marveling.

In truth, it wasn’t particularly difficult for Emilina. After all, the so-called “basic academics” were roughly equivalent to the middle school-level education she had received in her previous life.

In any case, Emilina spent her days learning calligraphy, dance, tea ceremony, and etiquette, keeping herself thoroughly occupied.

And, whether intentionally or not, the respect she garnered from her teachers also elevated the household staff’s admiration.

Her erudition and refined demeanor as the Duchess inspired faith in her role. According to what Mari had relayed, Emilina decided to take it all in stride.

During this time, Madame Eclaire and Merlin had each made visits to the ducal mansion.

“It’s a pleasure to see you again, Duchess. I bring my greetings.”

“Haha, this is a bit embarrassing. To think I’d see Madame Eclaire here again…”

“Oh my, is that so? But I had anticipated it. After all, the Duke has always taken a keen interest in you, Duchess.”

“Oh… really?”

Hearing of Kirzen’s attention from someone else made Emilina feel oddly fluttery.

It was as if a long-ignored, unfamiliar feeling was beginning to surface.

“Of course. While male clients exist, few are meticulous enough to personally select designs.”

“I see.”

“Anyway, I look forward to working with you. I welcome clients with generous tastes like the Duke. From now on, please entrust your dresses to me.”

Madame Eclaire said this with an excited expression. Her visit was meant to prepare for the dresses Emilina would wear.

The twins had complained that the Duchess didn’t have many dresses, prompting Emilina to commission more through Lockbel.

Although she had imagined this as a normal dress shop request, the reality of Madame Eclaire personally visiting surprised her.

Moreover, the designer wanted Emilina to entrust all her dresses to her, which made Emilina instinctively consider declining due to the cost.

But seeing Rona and Dina looking distressed beside her, she couldn’t bring herself to refuse.

Technically, Lockbel reassured her not to worry about the price, giving Emilina a way to back down without seeming petty.

After discussing, they agreed to commission three dresses for now.

Soon after sending Madame Eclaire off, Merlin visited the ducal mansion.

“Good day, Duchess. I came after receiving your letter. It concerns the chocolates we supplied for the royal ball previously…”

Although the situation had changed, Merlin skipped small talk and spoke directly about the chocolate business, treating Emilina as a business partner rather than dwelling on her circumstances.

Emilina was grateful.

Still, to continue the business, she needed to explain her current situation: her movements were more restricted than at the baronial estate, and developing new recipes might take longer.

Since she couldn’t actively oversee sales, she wanted to revise the contract to avoid complications, while maintaining the previous terms as amicably as possible.

Merlin seemed prepared for this, responding positively when Emilina brought it up.

“I apologize for how things turned out. I never expected such a sudden marriage myself.”

“No, Duchess. It’s not your fault. I’ve also thought it’s unnecessary for you to handle deliveries personally. Your staff can take care of that.”

“But…”

Emilina worried whether leaving chocolate production entirely to the staff was safe.

Merlin could be trusted, but the employees could not. They were simply paid workers. With rival shops eyeing her chocolates and desserts, the risk of recipe leaks was real.

They had even spread rumors about drugs to steal her recipes before. Recruiting staff from her business would be trivial for them if they chose to.

Thus, Emilina was left in deep thought.

Although she had revealed ingredients to quiet the rumors, only Emilina knew the core manufacturing method. Staff only assisted with basic tasks under her supervision—until now.

Sensing her hesitation, Merlin carefully addressed her concerns.

“I understand your worries, Duchess. You fear the staff might expose the recipes. But trends come at a price.”

“So control is necessary, especially regarding security.”

“Exactly. I’m mindful of that too. Still, some things are inevitable. We must plan ahead, just as you said.”

“So we needn’t be anxious in advance.”

“Right. Otherwise, nothing could be done. Humans aren’t perfect; problems can arise anytime. Full control is impossible.”

Merlin assured her he would monitor the staff closely, but unexpected issues could still occur, whether Emilina intervened or not.

Since market monopoly isn’t eternal, it was better to accept this reality and focus on preparedness. Competitors wouldn’t let Pirre Confectionery dominate forever—they might imitate the chocolates.

Merlin spoke with foresight, prompting Emilina to abandon stubbornness and accept his advice. It was wiser to strengthen her ability to manage the situation than to worry about an uncertain future.

After discussing with Merlin, Emilina revised the contract: outlining future direction, royalty distribution, and new menu development. Transitioning the contract from anonymous to real names, the day quickly passed.

“Thank you for your time. Please take care on your way back.”

“No, Duchess. I should have come to you. I’ll ensure your staff perform as they should, so you needn’t worry.”

“That’s reassuring. I trust you won’t disappoint me.”

“Of course, Duchess. Trust is the foundation of our business.”

Seeing Merlin off, Emilina reflected. She felt confident entrusting the chocolate business to him, relieved as he departed.

Time passed swiftly.

Kirzen, who said he’d return in about a week, had still not come back.

According to Lockbel, his work wasn’t finished, so it would take a bit longer. Emilina simply replied that she understood. Waiting was all she could do.

Meanwhile, she had grown quite close to Countess Lazella, her etiquette instructor.

Lazella was bright and pure, almost naïve, and seemed distant from the central social circle. Their casual conversations suggested she didn’t fit in well with high-ranking ladies.

Not ostracism, but more a sense of mismatched values and personalities creating distance.

Her age helped explain it. Only two years older than Emilina, Lazella often found conversations with older ladies stifling, preferring to spend time with young ladies instead.

Emilina couldn’t help but laugh lightly. Lockbel had chosen well. Lazella was approachable and put her at ease, making it easy to become friends.

Yet she was by no means lacking in etiquette. Diligent and attentive, Lazella guided Emilina on social gatherings, pointing out nuances that Katie hadn’t taught.

Through such interactions, they often had tea together. Two weeks had passed since Emilina arrived at the ducal mansion.

After finishing her duties, she had some free time that day. Without lessons scheduled, she could finally enjoy a leisurely break.

However, a dull heaviness in her chest made her uneasy. At first, she thought it was indigestion and asked Mari for medicine. But when the twins insisted she call a doctor, she brushed them off, saying she was fine.

It was unnecessary; it was likely just minor discomfort. Better to endure it herself than inconvenience everyone.

As Emilina sighed, Mari approached cautiously. She had just sent the twins away, who were disturbing Emilina’s rest.

“Milady, if you feel uncomfortable, how about a walk? Some fresh air and a slow stroll might help.”

Not a bad suggestion. Emilina nodded slowly.

“Yes, that sounds good. Thank you, Mari.”

“I’ll accompany you to the garden.”

Mari hesitated slightly, sensing Emilina might prefer to go alone. Emilina spoke quickly.

“I’d like to go by myself, if that’s okay. You deserve a rest too, Mari. I need some time alone.”

Since acquiring personal maids, Emilina rarely had alone time. Outside of sleep, they were almost constantly present, sometimes feeling overwhelming, even as if being watched.

Of course, it was just a habit—they only followed their duties. They would leave if asked. Emilina, understanding this, always sought permission when she wanted solitude.

Mari looked slightly worried.

“Then call for me if anything happens. I’ll wait nearby.”

“I’m just stepping out briefly. Don’t worry and rest inside.”

“No, milady. Today your condition isn’t good. It’s best I stay nearby, just in case.”

Mari’s tone was firm; she wouldn’t back down this time. Emilina sighed.

“Alright… waiting is fine. I’ll be quick.”

“I’ll escort you to the garden.”

“….”

Feeling both protected and restrained, Emilina began her walk.