Chapter 267: A Date (Primula’s Edition)
After paying a rather hefty sum at the establishment, they stepped outside.
In the tavern, fights were a common occurrence. Although it was problematic that Viola had set a strange woman’s hair ablaze, the lack of serious injury meant it was overlooked. The woman had been wailing and causing a scene, but even if she reported it to the guards, it was unlikely that Viola would face any charges. The divide between nobles and commoners was that strong in their feudal society.
There was no intention to flaunt power, but the fact remained that the noble Rest had been touched without permission. Having her hair singed was a minor consequence.
“Well then, I look forward to it.”
“Likewise, I’m excited!”
The day after his date with Viola, Rest was now on a date with Primula. He linked arms with her and they set off into the city.
“So… where are you taking me today?”
Primula had chosen their destination, expressing a desire to visit a particular place.
“You’ll find out soon enough. It’s a surprise for when we arrive,” she said playfully, her steps light and cheerful. Though Primula usually had a quiet demeanor and often stayed in her sister’s shadow, seeing her like this revealed that she was just a typical girl of her age.
“Is this…?”
After walking for about ten minutes, they arrived at a familiar location.
The Royal Museum. It was a place where the Aiwood Royal Family displayed art and historical artifacts. Rest had known of its existence, but this was his first time visiting.
“Today, they are holding a special exhibition here. National treasures and magic items that are usually kept secret are being displayed. I really wanted to see them with you, Rest-sama,” Primula explained.
“Oh, I see. Magic items sound intriguing.”
The Royal Museum housed precious items, and due to the risk of theft or destruction, entry was restricted to only a select few. As a member of the Rosemary Marquis House, Primula, along with Rest, a count, would have no trouble gaining access.
The three-story white building had a few well-dressed gentlemen and ladies coming and going. Rest and Primula presented their identification at the entrance before being allowed inside.
“Oh…”
“Wow…!”
Once inside, both of them couldn’t help but exclaim.
In the entrance hall was a large taxidermy display. It was a dragon adorned with blue scales.
“Could this be… the ‘Azure Thunder Dragon of Beowulf Aiwood’?”
“Yes, that’s correct. I had heard rumors about it, but I can’t believe it’s actually on display… how amazing!”
The “Azure Thunder Dragon of Beowulf Aiwood” was said to be the dragon slain by Beowulf Aiwood, the brother of the first king. Beowulf, one of the Five Dragon Generals, fought for seven days and nights to defeat this dragon, leading to the establishment of the Royal Capital in that very place.
“This taxidermy is a national treasure and is usually prohibited from public display. It can only be seen during special ceremonies or exhibitions. The Azure Thunder Dragon, as its name suggests, is a dragon that wields lightning, and it’s said that a single bolt from its mouth could fell hundreds of soldiers…”
“O-oh…”
“There was even a time when descendants of this dragon attempted to reclaim its taxidermy by attacking the Royal Capital, but the Knight Commander and the Court Mage Director at the time…”
Primula looked up at the dragon’s taxidermy, excitedly explaining the history. She was a studious girl who loved reading, and it seemed she came from an intellectual household.
“I see… that was an interesting story, but maybe we should save the detailed discussions for later.”
“Oh, I’m sorry! I got carried away…”
Noticing the difference in their enthusiasm, Primula’s face turned a shade of crimson. Embarrassed, she cupped her cheeks with both hands and lowered her gaze.
“No, it was enlightening. I’d appreciate it if you could tell me more about other things too.”
That was a genuine sentiment. In fact, it was enjoyable to see Primula so passionately engaged. While some might find it overwhelming, a beautiful girl discussing her interests made her all the more endearing—life could be quite unfair that way.
“R-really?”
“But if we linger at the entrance, we might inconvenience those behind us, so let’s move further inside for now.”
“You’re right… I’m sorry.”
“Then let’s go.”
Rest linked arms with Primula, escorting her as they followed the designated path through the museum.