The fact that the name happened to be that of a Delmark ancestor probably played a part too.
Herdin left the room immediately.
Luth, who had just come looking for him, was startled to face his lord. Though he always had a cold face, right now he was colder than ever before.
While Luth hesitated at that aura, Herdin asked first:
"What is it?"
"Baron Sionel's wife sent a catalog."
Baron Sionel's wife was regarded as the best costume designer in Ardel, bar none. Born a commoner, she was a great talent who even received a title from Empress Dowager Katrina in recognition of her skills.
They had planned to call her to the duke's residence today to make formal attire for the upcoming New Year's festival, but the appointment fell through when Blair fell ill.
The servant who went to deliver the news received the catalog instead.
Herdin took the catalog that Luth handed over.
"She asked to please choose the fabrics first, so that difficult-to-obtain fabrics can be procured in advance."
When he opened the catalog, he saw small fabric samples cut and pasted. Next to them, the pros and cons of the fabrics and even the prices were written in small letters.
Herdin closed the catalog and handed it back to Luth, saying:
"Tell her to get any fabric that's good for cold protection, it doesn't matter which."
From the start, for the Duke of Delmark who possessed wealth rivaling the imperial family, the price of fabric was not a consideration.
* * *
A few days later, when Blair's condition improved, Herdin brought in a new hypnotist.
She was a woman with a gentle impression who looked to be in her mid-thirties, and was said to be from a family serving the House of Delmark.
The woman, who introduced herself as 'Agnes Lorelaine', explained the future plans to Blair.
"Those who have lost their memories due to great shock sometimes cover up their memories even more as a backlash when trying to forcibly draw them out."
Agnes continued her explanation with a gentle smile towards Blair.
"So rather than trying to draw out memories hastily, I want to start by slowly getting used to the memories of that time."
"How?"
"First, would you have tea time with me once a week and tell me stories about your childhood? Any story is fine."
Blair was facing Agnes with her usual calm expression, but her fingers under the table were fiddling with the hem of her dress.
With Agnes's proposed method, she wouldn't be able to access the memories quickly.
There was only one reason why she was so obsessed with finding the memories of that time. Because she had to find the memories no matter what, before having Asiel.
If she couldn't end this contract marriage even after getting pregnant, Herdin would find out about the pregnancy.
Moreover, since her body got sick every time she tried to find the memories, she wouldn't be able to attempt it after becoming pregnant.
Just over half a year left until Asiel came into being.
It was a tight timeline even to finish all the affairs here and prepare to leave.
Lost in thought, Blair couldn't readily respond to Agnes's words and just fiddled with the rim of her teacup after placing her hand on the table.
As if reading Blair's mind, Agnes said:
"Don't be too hasty. I will certainly find your memories. Just relax and follow me with trust."
There was an irresistible power in her gentle gaze.
Would she be able to talk about personal matters well in front of a stranger?
Though she was reluctant, she didn't feel like refusing Agnes's proposal. Strangely enough.
"Alright."
Seeing Blair finally nod willingly, Agnes smiled brightly.
"I'm looking forward to what stories you'll tell me. By hearing those stories, I'll be learning another life."
Just as the two were about to set their next tea time appointment, there was a presence felt from behind.
Search "child" at redcatty [.] com to read ahead up to chap 170.