[TIDK] 117 – Recommendation

After finishing their meal, Scarlett proceeded to style her hair, as mentioned earlier. Viktor watched her with fascination, finding amusement in her skilled hand movements, reminiscent of when she used to tie the curtains.

Once Scarlett donned her hat and stood up, they exited the cottage. Scarlett, leading the way without knowing the path, suddenly stopped.

"Wow..." she gasped.

As they stood by the crystal-clear lake, its transparent waters revealing the bed of the lake, Scarlett couldn't help but express her admiration. "It's beautiful..."

The unfamiliar scenery had wholly captivated the curious Scarlett. Viktor, sensing her fascination, spoke up. "If it's just admission, I can help you without relying on the university."

Scarlett hesitated for a moment; her gaze fixed on Viktor. Admission to Salantier University had three methods: Recommendation Admission for the nobility, Donation Admission for the bourgeoisie, and Elite Admission for those with exceptional skills. Though noble, the Crimson family had gained their status through their remarkable abilities and did not have a long lineage of high status. Consequently, they lacked the influence to secure Scarlett's admission to Salantier University. After the passing of Scarlett's parents, their family's power had significantly diminished, once their greatest asset.

"I want to learn skills in a more systematic way," Scarlett confessed.

Viktor nodded, understanding her desire.

"I understand."

"You do?"

"No, not yet. But I will make an effort to understand. As a mere formality," Viktor replied.

Scarlett chuckled softly, appreciating his willingness to try.

After their time at the vineyard, they returned to the villa. They were scheduled to depart for the capital the following morning.

As Scarlett finished her bath, she noticed Candice standing anxiously beside the bathroom. Candice, a senior maid who took great pride in her work, had proven difficult to replace. Finding experienced maids capable of handling all tasks for an extended period was challenging. Thus, they took immense pride in their profession.

However, during their stay at the vineyard, Scarlett noticed a change in Candice's demeanour. It seemed that Candice had let go of her pride and was making a concerted effort to please Scarlett.

Having worked as a maid herself before her marriage, Scarlett was familiar with this behaviour. Maids often became subservient to their employers when they had no other options.

But the fact that Candice, who should have had other choices, was now acting subservient indicated an uncertain job market. Scarlett glanced at the other servants and noticed they were avoiding eye contact as if they didn't want to draw any attention.

The atmosphere among the staff was palpably different, raising questions in Scarlett's mind about the state of affairs in the household.

In the city of Salantier, a timepiece held a significant meaning beyond its practicality—it was a symbol of status and an item listed in inheritance inventories. In uncertain times, these timepieces gained even greater value and importance.

However, even in the bustling 7th Avenue, the looming anxiety of an economic downturn hung like a dense fog. The noble class, in particular, was rumoured to be hoarding gold as a means of securing their wealth. Gold coins had become a rarity in the market, and when they did appear, their value was equivalent to their weight in pure gold.

Scarlett noticed the array of snacks set on the table and took a seat in front of them, contemplating whether she would partake. Just then, Blythe, the ever-polite servant, approached and asked, "May I serve you some tea?"

"Yes, please. I could use something to help me sleep," Scarlett replied.

Blythe nodded, and soon Viktor joined her, settling down in front of her with two cups of tea placed on the table.

Curiosity sparked within Scarlett as she looked at Viktor. "Do you possess any gold coins?"

"Why do you ask?" Viktor responded.

"Well, these days, nobles aren't relying on gold coins as much," Scarlett remarked.

"Ah, because gold is considered a safe asset," Viktor mused.

"Indeed. So, do you have any gold?" Scarlett inquired.

"Pirates are quite fond of gold coins," Viktor admitted.

"So that means you must possess a significant amount," she surmised.

"One could say that," he confirmed.

"You would be unaffected even in times of war."

"Not all nobles would be as fortunate," Viktor revealed, briefly reaching into his jacket pocket as if searching for a cigarette, but withdrew his hand with a slightly anxious expression.

"The nobles who have long been involved in espionage would fare better. If a war were to break out, Vestina would somehow bomb the Dumfelt Tower in the western part," he explained.

"But you're not a spy, right?" Scarlett questioned.

"I am not a spy," Viktor replied, smiling at Scarlett.

"Why is it strange that someone as self-centred as yourself isn't a spy?" Scarlett pondered.

"It is a bit unusual," Viktor admitted.

"And spies don't typically go around openly declaring themselves as such," Scarlett added.

"...Yes, that's true," Viktor responded, chuckling softly.

"The Crimson family is bound to Salantier, unable to relocate even in life or death," Scarlett remarked.

"Yes, I am well aware," Viktor acknowledged.

Scarlett expressed concern, saying, "I hope Vestina remains free from occupying us."

Viktor shook the empty teacup. Blythe promptly refilled it for him.

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