6. If you eat it, you will die.
"She's more beautiful than any girl I've ever had. I'm sure you'll agree when you see her."
Brenda Hardy glanced at the desk clock, whining. Why would she go for a walk on such an important day? She was a child who didn't like many things.
“That must be so, Viscountess.”
Countess Meyer, who was looking down at the garden scenery through the window with a cold expression, turned her gaze to Brenda Hardy.
“Otherwise, it would be a waste of time, and I really hate wasting my time on meaningless things.”
Despite her soft voice, her gaze was cold. Brenda Hardy forced a smile, suppressing the gnawing feeling in her stomach. She was the one who felt the pinch, so there was no other way but to endure and endure.
Countess Meyer was a legendary figure in the marriage market of Letzen's high society. Born the daughter of a prominent, wealthy family, she rose to the rank of Countess and successfully arranged for her daughters to marry into families of astonishing prominence. Her eldest daughter became a Countess, and her second daughter became the wife of a wealthy New World tycoon—a remarkable achievement. She even found excellent grooms for the girls she chaperoned, and as word spread, women with daughters from all over the society began lining up.
It was nothing short of a miracle that Victoria Meyer was now sitting in the Hardy family's parlor. She had originally announced she wouldn't chaperone this season, intending to spend the summer abroad with her second daughter. However, her plans were disrupted when her second daughter embarked on a long journey with her husband. Brenda Hardy had to mobilize every connection she had to find a way to secure her place before another family could claim her.
You want to sell your daughter?
When she first heard those words, Brenda Hardy thought her husband had finally lost his mind. But he was quite serious, and his ambitions were even somewhat believable. It wasn't unusual in high society for a family on the brink to put their daughter up for marriage.
In fact, aren't all marriages in high society ultimately just transactions?
Of course, revealing one's blatant business intentions would be somewhat vulgar, but the Hardy family was in no position to quibble over such matters. Above all, Erna. She would undoubtedly be a top-tier asset.
Ultimately, Brenda Hardy feigned defeat and accepted her husband's outrageous proposal. This kind of business demands speed, so she was determined to secure a deal by the end of the summer.
“Madam, Miss Erna has arrived.”
The furrow between Countess Meyer's eyebrows visibly deepened just as the maid with the good news arrived. Brenda Hardy abruptly rose from her seat, her pride momentarily forgotten.
“Welcome, Erna! I’ve been waiting for you.”
As Erna entered the drawing room, she greeted her with a heartfelt greeting. Countess Meyer, putting down her fan, turned to look at Erna. Despite buying her a ton of new clothes, Erna was still wearing a tacky dress.
“Come and say hello. This is Countess Meyer.”
Brenda Hardy urged Erna on in an impatient voice. The way she stiffened at the sight of the unfamiliar guest made her look like a true country bumpkin. "This is it." Victoria Meyer was on edge, fearing she'd storm out at any moment.
“Hello, Ma’am. My name is Erna Hardy.”
Erna, who approached her hesitantly, thankfully offered a proper, polite greeting. Countess Meyer's gaze, scanning Erna from top to bottom, then bottom to top again, was as sharp as a blade.
“What do you think, Madam? Do you like our Erna?”
Brenda Hardy, who could no longer stand the silence, spoke first.
“I know for sure you weren’t lying.”
Countess Meyer, who had been looking puzzled, finally nodded. Then, slowly and elegantly, she rose and approached Erna.
“Nice to meet you, Miss Hardy. Let’s do our best.”
The Countess extended her gloved hand toward Erna and asked for a handshake.
“My name is Victoria Myer. I will be your chaperone.”
As the sound of the scissors cutting the cloth ceased, the bedroom fell silent again.
Erna, who had been working diligently with her hands, practically slumped over the desk, let out a long sigh, and sat up straight. Her eyes, gazing at the finished peony, were filled with overwhelming joy and satisfaction.
When your head is complicated, focus on your work.
It had been a long-standing habit for Erna. Ever since she began helping Madame Greve make and sell artificial flowers, whenever she found herself lost in thought, she found herself reaching for the scissors as if it were a natural thing. It was beneficial in many ways, as it allowed her to both calm her mind and earn a living. It was a bit ironic that she had come all the way here to collect work, but for Erna, it felt like a part of her own body.
After clearing away the scraps of cloth and tools, Erna went to the bathroom and washed her hands thoroughly. Her small hands, once stained with grass, soon regained their original white, smooth appearance.
Perhaps this year will not be so smooth, Erna thought absentmindedly, looking at herself in the ornate brass mirror.
It had already been nearly ten days since she moved into the Hardy family's mansion. Each day seemed to pass incredibly slowly, yet the ten days that had accumulated seemed to rush by like a torrent.
Since arriving in Schwerin, Erna spent most of her time with the Viscountess. More accurately, she was dragged around. She was given no choice as she wandered through countless fancy shops, buying mountains of items. All she had to do was dress, undress, and be carried from place to place like a piece of luggage. It was like playing with dolls.
“Miss!”
The maid shouted in delight as she saw Erna coming out of the bathroom door.
“I was so surprised to find out where you had gone!”
“I’m sorry if I worried you.”
“That doesn’t mean you need to apologize!”
Lisa, flustered, waved her hands and flinched.
Erna smiled, a little shyly, and slowly approached the table set with afternoon tea. Lisa, who had been hesitating, also approached her, timidly.
'Next time, bring another teacup.'
It was four days ago, during tea time, that Erna blurted out such an absurd statement. Lisa, who belatedly understood the meaning of her words, almost let out a scream of shock.
'Don't do this to me, Miss. You'll get in big trouble if you do.'
"Why? Even at Baden House, I've had tea with Madame Greve."
No matter how hard I tried to explain, Erna just tilted her head with a blank expression, like now.
'Who is Madame Greve?'
Lisa asked anxiously, lowering her voice.
'The housekeeper of the Baden family.'
Erna, who had been holding her breath, answered seriously.
The secret tea time with the girl that started like that continued peacefully for several days.
She was certainly a bit of an odd girl, Lisa agreed, somewhat agreeing with the whispers of the Hardy household's servants.
The young lady of the Hardy family, who suddenly appeared one day, had nothing of the air of a noblewoman. From her attire to her demeanor, she was the same in every way. However, accusations of being overbearing or eccentric were completely unfounded. She was shy and reserved, giving off a somewhat reserved impression, but upon closer inspection, she was actually quite affectionate.
“Wow. Did you make that, Miss?”
Lisa's eyes widened as she spotted the tempting artificial flower on the desk she'd casually glanced at. Erna nodded, her cheeks slightly flushed. With each slow blink, the shadows of her long eyelashes fluttered, like a butterfly fluttering its wings.
"It's so pretty! Your craftsmanship is truly exquisite. I'd believe it if you told me it was a real flower."
Lisa was genuinely impressed. She felt a sense of daze as she looked at Erna's face, beaming with delight at the compliment.
'You've been selling and selling, and now you're even trying to sell your daughter.'
The servants used to whisper such criticisms about Viscount Hardy, who suddenly brought his ex-wife's daughter, whom he had left behind at her maternal grandparents' house, into the household.
"It's certain to fetch a considerable price, so it's understandable. Regardless of what it sells for, isn't it good for all of us that this family remains strong?"
Someone even subtly defended the master. With the young lady in front of her, Lisa felt like she could understand the meaning of those harsh words.
Does this girl know what her situation is?
A sudden question struck Lisa, unsettling her. It was then that Erna, standing beside her, suddenly offered her a bouquet of flowers.
“Surely you’re giving it to me?”
When Lisq asked again in disbelief, Erna nodded slightly.
"No, Miss! That's not what I meant! I just think you're pretty..."
"I'll give it to you as a gift. It'll look pretty on your hat. You can also wear it as a brooch."
Erna put the flower directly into Lisa's awkward hand.
Lisa, unable to refuse the sincerity, feigned defeat and accepted the gift. Only then did Erna smile in relief. She was a beautiful girl, smiling like the flowers she had created.
"Shall we go for a walk? Schwerin is probably still quite unfamiliar to you, but in return for the gift, I'll show you lots of great places."
Lisa, filled with renewed motivation, leaped to her feet. Erna looked up at her with wide eyes.
“Am I causing trouble?”
“No way! It’s my job to take good care of you, young lady.”
Lisa smiled brightly and quickly brought Erna's parasol and hat.
“Come out, Miss!”
Schwerin was a large city, comparable to the capital.
The nobility generally had their mansions in the southern part of the city, and the royal summer residence, Schwerin Palace, was located in this area. With its densely packed shopping district, hotels, and lavish theaters, it boasted the splendor of a resort town where the kingdom's prominent aristocrats came to enjoy the summer season. Further north, a large harbor connected to the ocean gave Schwerin a thriving commercial and financial center since ancient times.
Erna walked slowly, listening intently to Lisa's chattering, excited voice. She'd read about it in books, but seeing the city with her own eyes made everything feel new.
“Excuse me, that hotel is the best hotel in Schwerin.”
Lisa paused for a moment and pointed to a hotel located at the intersection of three main streets.
"The restaurant and tea room over there are very popular with the ladies here. Let's go there sometime, Miss."
Before Erna could respond, Lisa quickly added. Her face flushed with anticipation, delighting her, Erna nodded obediently. It was then that a tall man caught her eye.
The man, having exited the hotel entrance, strode briskly, his steps wide and brisk. He paid no attention to the woman beside him, simply urging him on his way. Behind them, servants followed at a comfortable distance. Judging by the gazes of passersby, he must have been quite a famous figure.
“Oh, no, Miss!”
As Erna, overcome with a strange sense of foreboding, turned towards the man, Lisa suddenly grabbed her arm.
"Yes, Miss. It's very pretty. I understand how you feel, but you still can't. You can't use it."
Lisa frowned and now clicked her tongue.
Erna tilted her head at the incomprehensible words, turning her gaze back to the blond man. The carriage carrying him and the woman soon disappeared down the road.
“I told you, absolutely not.”
Lisa sighed deeply and stood in front of Erna.
“Who is that person?”
“That... you don’t need to know that. Don’t know.”
“Is his reputation really bad?”
“Oh my. What are you talking about?”
Lisa shook her head and then grabbed Erna's hand.
“Remember, Miss. That’s not a man.”
"Then?"
“Um... that’s right, it’s a poisonous mushroom!”
Lisa shouted, her eyes sparkling. Despite her outrageous remarks, her expression remained remarkably serious.
“Keep in mind, Miss. If you eat it, you’ll die.”
"She's more beautiful than any girl I've ever had. I'm sure you'll agree when you see her."
Brenda Hardy glanced at the desk clock, whining. Why would she go for a walk on such an important day? She was a child who didn't like many things.
“That must be so, Viscountess.”
Countess Meyer, who was looking down at the garden scenery through the window with a cold expression, turned her gaze to Brenda Hardy.
“Otherwise, it would be a waste of time, and I really hate wasting my time on meaningless things.”
Despite her soft voice, her gaze was cold. Brenda Hardy forced a smile, suppressing the gnawing feeling in her stomach. She was the one who felt the pinch, so there was no other way but to endure and endure.
Countess Meyer was a legendary figure in the marriage market of Letzen's high society. Born the daughter of a prominent, wealthy family, she rose to the rank of Countess and successfully arranged for her daughters to marry into families of astonishing prominence. Her eldest daughter became a Countess, and her second daughter became the wife of a wealthy New World tycoon—a remarkable achievement. She even found excellent grooms for the girls she chaperoned, and as word spread, women with daughters from all over the society began lining up.
It was nothing short of a miracle that Victoria Meyer was now sitting in the Hardy family's parlor. She had originally announced she wouldn't chaperone this season, intending to spend the summer abroad with her second daughter. However, her plans were disrupted when her second daughter embarked on a long journey with her husband. Brenda Hardy had to mobilize every connection she had to find a way to secure her place before another family could claim her.
You want to sell your daughter?
When she first heard those words, Brenda Hardy thought her husband had finally lost his mind. But he was quite serious, and his ambitions were even somewhat believable. It wasn't unusual in high society for a family on the brink to put their daughter up for marriage.
In fact, aren't all marriages in high society ultimately just transactions?
Of course, revealing one's blatant business intentions would be somewhat vulgar, but the Hardy family was in no position to quibble over such matters. Above all, Erna. She would undoubtedly be a top-tier asset.
Ultimately, Brenda Hardy feigned defeat and accepted her husband's outrageous proposal. This kind of business demands speed, so she was determined to secure a deal by the end of the summer.
“Madam, Miss Erna has arrived.”
The furrow between Countess Meyer's eyebrows visibly deepened just as the maid with the good news arrived. Brenda Hardy abruptly rose from her seat, her pride momentarily forgotten.
“Welcome, Erna! I’ve been waiting for you.”
As Erna entered the drawing room, she greeted her with a heartfelt greeting. Countess Meyer, putting down her fan, turned to look at Erna. Despite buying her a ton of new clothes, Erna was still wearing a tacky dress.
“Come and say hello. This is Countess Meyer.”
Brenda Hardy urged Erna on in an impatient voice. The way she stiffened at the sight of the unfamiliar guest made her look like a true country bumpkin. "This is it." Victoria Meyer was on edge, fearing she'd storm out at any moment.
“Hello, Ma’am. My name is Erna Hardy.”
Erna, who approached her hesitantly, thankfully offered a proper, polite greeting. Countess Meyer's gaze, scanning Erna from top to bottom, then bottom to top again, was as sharp as a blade.
“What do you think, Madam? Do you like our Erna?”
Brenda Hardy, who could no longer stand the silence, spoke first.
“I know for sure you weren’t lying.”
Countess Meyer, who had been looking puzzled, finally nodded. Then, slowly and elegantly, she rose and approached Erna.
“Nice to meet you, Miss Hardy. Let’s do our best.”
The Countess extended her gloved hand toward Erna and asked for a handshake.
“My name is Victoria Myer. I will be your chaperone.”
***
As the sound of the scissors cutting the cloth ceased, the bedroom fell silent again.
Erna, who had been working diligently with her hands, practically slumped over the desk, let out a long sigh, and sat up straight. Her eyes, gazing at the finished peony, were filled with overwhelming joy and satisfaction.
When your head is complicated, focus on your work.
It had been a long-standing habit for Erna. Ever since she began helping Madame Greve make and sell artificial flowers, whenever she found herself lost in thought, she found herself reaching for the scissors as if it were a natural thing. It was beneficial in many ways, as it allowed her to both calm her mind and earn a living. It was a bit ironic that she had come all the way here to collect work, but for Erna, it felt like a part of her own body.
After clearing away the scraps of cloth and tools, Erna went to the bathroom and washed her hands thoroughly. Her small hands, once stained with grass, soon regained their original white, smooth appearance.
Perhaps this year will not be so smooth, Erna thought absentmindedly, looking at herself in the ornate brass mirror.
It had already been nearly ten days since she moved into the Hardy family's mansion. Each day seemed to pass incredibly slowly, yet the ten days that had accumulated seemed to rush by like a torrent.
Since arriving in Schwerin, Erna spent most of her time with the Viscountess. More accurately, she was dragged around. She was given no choice as she wandered through countless fancy shops, buying mountains of items. All she had to do was dress, undress, and be carried from place to place like a piece of luggage. It was like playing with dolls.
“Miss!”
The maid shouted in delight as she saw Erna coming out of the bathroom door.
“I was so surprised to find out where you had gone!”
“I’m sorry if I worried you.”
“That doesn’t mean you need to apologize!”
Lisa, flustered, waved her hands and flinched.
Erna smiled, a little shyly, and slowly approached the table set with afternoon tea. Lisa, who had been hesitating, also approached her, timidly.
'Next time, bring another teacup.'
It was four days ago, during tea time, that Erna blurted out such an absurd statement. Lisa, who belatedly understood the meaning of her words, almost let out a scream of shock.
'Don't do this to me, Miss. You'll get in big trouble if you do.'
"Why? Even at Baden House, I've had tea with Madame Greve."
No matter how hard I tried to explain, Erna just tilted her head with a blank expression, like now.
'Who is Madame Greve?'
Lisa asked anxiously, lowering her voice.
'The housekeeper of the Baden family.'
Erna, who had been holding her breath, answered seriously.
The secret tea time with the girl that started like that continued peacefully for several days.
She was certainly a bit of an odd girl, Lisa agreed, somewhat agreeing with the whispers of the Hardy household's servants.
The young lady of the Hardy family, who suddenly appeared one day, had nothing of the air of a noblewoman. From her attire to her demeanor, she was the same in every way. However, accusations of being overbearing or eccentric were completely unfounded. She was shy and reserved, giving off a somewhat reserved impression, but upon closer inspection, she was actually quite affectionate.
“Wow. Did you make that, Miss?”
Lisa's eyes widened as she spotted the tempting artificial flower on the desk she'd casually glanced at. Erna nodded, her cheeks slightly flushed. With each slow blink, the shadows of her long eyelashes fluttered, like a butterfly fluttering its wings.
"It's so pretty! Your craftsmanship is truly exquisite. I'd believe it if you told me it was a real flower."
Lisa was genuinely impressed. She felt a sense of daze as she looked at Erna's face, beaming with delight at the compliment.
'You've been selling and selling, and now you're even trying to sell your daughter.'
The servants used to whisper such criticisms about Viscount Hardy, who suddenly brought his ex-wife's daughter, whom he had left behind at her maternal grandparents' house, into the household.
"It's certain to fetch a considerable price, so it's understandable. Regardless of what it sells for, isn't it good for all of us that this family remains strong?"
Someone even subtly defended the master. With the young lady in front of her, Lisa felt like she could understand the meaning of those harsh words.
Does this girl know what her situation is?
A sudden question struck Lisa, unsettling her. It was then that Erna, standing beside her, suddenly offered her a bouquet of flowers.
“Surely you’re giving it to me?”
When Lisq asked again in disbelief, Erna nodded slightly.
"No, Miss! That's not what I meant! I just think you're pretty..."
"I'll give it to you as a gift. It'll look pretty on your hat. You can also wear it as a brooch."
Erna put the flower directly into Lisa's awkward hand.
Lisa, unable to refuse the sincerity, feigned defeat and accepted the gift. Only then did Erna smile in relief. She was a beautiful girl, smiling like the flowers she had created.
"Shall we go for a walk? Schwerin is probably still quite unfamiliar to you, but in return for the gift, I'll show you lots of great places."
Lisa, filled with renewed motivation, leaped to her feet. Erna looked up at her with wide eyes.
“Am I causing trouble?”
“No way! It’s my job to take good care of you, young lady.”
Lisa smiled brightly and quickly brought Erna's parasol and hat.
“Come out, Miss!”
***
Schwerin was a large city, comparable to the capital.
The nobility generally had their mansions in the southern part of the city, and the royal summer residence, Schwerin Palace, was located in this area. With its densely packed shopping district, hotels, and lavish theaters, it boasted the splendor of a resort town where the kingdom's prominent aristocrats came to enjoy the summer season. Further north, a large harbor connected to the ocean gave Schwerin a thriving commercial and financial center since ancient times.
Erna walked slowly, listening intently to Lisa's chattering, excited voice. She'd read about it in books, but seeing the city with her own eyes made everything feel new.
“Excuse me, that hotel is the best hotel in Schwerin.”
Lisa paused for a moment and pointed to a hotel located at the intersection of three main streets.
"The restaurant and tea room over there are very popular with the ladies here. Let's go there sometime, Miss."
Before Erna could respond, Lisa quickly added. Her face flushed with anticipation, delighting her, Erna nodded obediently. It was then that a tall man caught her eye.
The man, having exited the hotel entrance, strode briskly, his steps wide and brisk. He paid no attention to the woman beside him, simply urging him on his way. Behind them, servants followed at a comfortable distance. Judging by the gazes of passersby, he must have been quite a famous figure.
“Oh, no, Miss!”
As Erna, overcome with a strange sense of foreboding, turned towards the man, Lisa suddenly grabbed her arm.
"Yes, Miss. It's very pretty. I understand how you feel, but you still can't. You can't use it."
Lisa frowned and now clicked her tongue.
Erna tilted her head at the incomprehensible words, turning her gaze back to the blond man. The carriage carrying him and the woman soon disappeared down the road.
“I told you, absolutely not.”
Lisa sighed deeply and stood in front of Erna.
“Who is that person?”
“That... you don’t need to know that. Don’t know.”
“Is his reputation really bad?”
“Oh my. What are you talking about?”
Lisa shook her head and then grabbed Erna's hand.
“Remember, Miss. That’s not a man.”
"Then?"
“Um... that’s right, it’s a poisonous mushroom!”
Lisa shouted, her eyes sparkling. Despite her outrageous remarks, her expression remained remarkably serious.
“Keep in mind, Miss. If you eat it, you’ll die.”
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