[TIDK] 136 – Crimson Legacy

June 20

Viktor stood there, his tongue held back, resembling a statue. Pallin, who had always been known for their directness amidst the criticism around them, now saw the true embodiment of an alpha male in Viktor Dumfelt.

Even among this group of individuals, Viktor was overwhelmingly dominant. Everyone could recognise that he was the undisputed leader of the pack, Viktor Dumfelt.

Scarlett quietly observed the things that Viktor had arranged. However, she suddenly became aware of the biting cold and clasping her hands behind her back; she turned to Pallin and Blythe.

"Thank you. I suppose it's time to head inside now, as it's getting quite chilly."

Blythe chuckled merrily and replied, "Yes, indeed. Well then, I shall take my leave."

With a farewell gesture, Blythe departed with the carriage. Scarlett, feeling a slight sense of bewilderment, couldn't help but smile and remark to Pallin, "That was quite an extravagant farewell."

Pallin joined in the laughter and replied, "Yes, it's not every day we get to bid farewell in such a grand manner."

"You know, quietly going about our studies just doesn't seem right."

"You're absolutely correct. I never expected it to be on such a small scale."

Engaged in conversation, the two of them entered the research laboratory.

♔♔♔

The location of the school was blanketed in snow throughout the day. Inside the research lab of the Crimson Couple, as Scarlett poured warm wine for each of them, Professor Gustav pondered over the intricate design that Scarlett had placed on the chalkboard. Meanwhile, the students beside him were immersed in their own contemplation.

For Scarlett, the notion that bringing unknown concepts to research could engage both the professor and students in collective problem-solving became a profound source of motivation. Even on the first day, Bill and Kristin, who shared a passion for genetics, were exploring similar ideas. It was then that Kristin raised her hand, her voice filled with curiosity.

"But Scarlett, would it be possible for us to share the timepiece technology? After all, it originates from the Crimson family."

Scarlett hesitated, aware that involving everyone in such a risky venture like aerospace research was not feasible. Moreover, trust was not easily given. Hence, Scarlett decided to focus her research on aspects of timepiece technology that could be universally applied.

With a warm smile, Scarlett handed each professor a glass of wine and replied, "Certainly. I intend to gain a deeper understanding of that technology."

Kristin's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Oh, that's fascinating! Just like the renowned daughter of the Crimson Earl in my imagination..."

Scarlett chuckled softly. "Kristin, please don't burden yourself with grandiose thoughts."

Amidst the conversation, Professor Gustav couldn't contain his curiosity and inquired, "Kristin, pray tell, what exactly have you been imagining?"

Kristin's face lit up as she began to explain, "Well, you see, to carry forward the remarkable legacy left by the Crimson Earl couple, the esteemed daughter tirelessly conducts research in the lab every single day..."

The location where the school was situated was blanketed with snow all day long. As Scarlett poured warm wine for herself and her colleagues inside the Crimson couple's research laboratory, Gustav Professor pondered over the design Scarlett had pinned on the blackboard. The students standing beside him were also contemplating the same thing.

Scarlett found great comfort in the fact that if she encountered something she didn't know while conducting her research, both the professor and the students would collectively delve into finding the answer. It was a source of immense support for her.

On the first day, when Bill and Kristin introduced themselves as geneticists, Scarlett realised that they were also working on similar subjects. Then, Kristin raised her hand and spoke up.

"By the way, Scarlett, would it be okay if you shared the time-travel technology with us? After all, it's a Crimson family technology."

Scarlett couldn't involve everyone in something as risky as aerospace research. Moreover, she couldn't trust them completely. Therefore, Scarlett focused her research on aspects that could be universally applied to time-travel technology.

*time-travel, as in things that shorten time to travel, literally.

As Scarlett handed each of them a glass of wine, she replied, "Of course. I came here to gain a deeper understanding of that technology."

"Oh, that's impressive... You truly are the Crimson lady from my imagination..."

"Kristin, please don't make a big deal out of it."

Scarlett responded, trying to downplay the situation. However, Gustav Professor seemed curious and asked, "Kristin, what kind of imagination are you referring to?"

"Well, it's about inheriting the great achievements left by the Crimson Viscount couple to continue their legacy. The Crimson lady spends every day in the research laboratory," Kristin replied.

Scarlett looked at Kristin with a puzzled expression. "I never imagined anything like that."

As Scarlett voiced her confusion, all three turned to look at her as if wondering why she couldn't comprehend.

In any case, they concluded their meeting, and Scarlett packed her belongings to leave the school. These days, she had been juggling between the store and the school, leading an exhausting life even with two bodies. Since it was the weekend and she didn't have to go to school, and the shop was running relatively smoothly, Scarlett planned to rest at home today and have dinner with Isaac on Saturday.

Isaac had been occupied with matters related to the Crimson family lately. His work at the bank seemed particularly complex. While sharing a meal, Scarlett intended to inquire about how she could assist him.

And before that...

"I should express my gratitude," she murmured to herself while waiting for the tram. It seemed necessary to acknowledge his help in various ways and provide an update on the progress. However, she had to evaluate whether any remnants of attachment lingered within her that would prompt her to seek him out.

The tram arrived shortly after, and she boarded it, embarking on her journey to the capital.

The path from the College of Engineering in Salantier to the capital was an expanse of monotonous fields. The heavy snowfall had covered everything, leaving no distinctive features to captivate the eye.

Amidst the repetitive and uninspiring landscape, Scarlett took advantage of the dullness to sort through the thoughts neglected due to her recent business. But as she did, a single name resurfaced repeatedly.

Viktor Dumfelt.

How many times had she uttered his name that day when she emerged from the monastery ravaged by illness?

"Just once, come earlier than our agreed meeting time. Just once, disregard our plans. Just once, hold me in your heart."

For a long time, she had harboured resentment. Yet, his name would involuntarily spring forth whenever her thoughts delved deeper, pricking at her throat.