Category: Chocolate Bliss

With a forced I smile, I greeted them and seated at the vacant seat in front of Pepper. Now that the royalties are here, they sat at the left and right side of the Duke. With Prince Aero and Princess Lotte at the left side and Crown Prince Lewis at the Duke’s right.

Ghirar sat in front of Princess Lotte and beside him sat the Duchess with Minte and Milka in her side. Seated right beside the Princess, I really don’t know if I should feel glad about it.

The food was sumptuous as usual and the variety of greens and juicy meat in front should have make me drool by now but the nervousness I am currently feeling made it hard for me to eat at my heart’s content!

“We heard, you have introduced variety of desserts by now…” Princess Lotte finally started the conversation in the quiet dining.

“Hahaha yes… thankfully I learned about it…” I replied nervously as I reached for the glass of water.

“So you were really an enlightened.” Ghirar added up nonchalantly as he looked at me intently.

“Hahahaha… yes I guess so…”

Thankfully Cook Bronze and the others brought out the desserts. Rose shaped chocolates were placed on top of the round chocolate cake. Though it was pretty simple, it much less gathered everybody’s attention.

Relieved that the attention clearly on me a while back was now diverted to the round cake, I finally relaxed and explained the dessert.

“This is called cake, a chocolate flavoured one. The rose shaped chocolate on top can be eaten separately and it was added in so it could give a twist to this round cake.”

Cook Bronze also brought in the previously shaped chocolates. The leaf and shell shaped one attracted their attention more.

“This leaf and shell shaped chocolate has almond inside.”

I did not need to urged them to taste it as Princess Lotte already picked one. I also took a few of every chocolate shapes for Almond Joy as she just stared at the ones in front of us.

“Try it, you will probably like it.” I urged Almond Joy.

“It’s delicious!” I even felt my body shook as Princess Lotte tagged my arms. The duke was then very pleased and the previously tense atmosphere turned merry.

The desserts should have been served sooner!

With the Crown Prince in lead, he sliced a part from the chocolate cake. We all look at him in anticipation and his eyes showed his surprise.

“The bread is soft and the sweetness was just right.” He commented. “The chef was very skilled.”

Cook Bronze on the side made a fist pump in delight but he still answered humbly that he was just a cook and that he just followed my recipe.

Right! How could I forget about Milka.

When I looked at the little kid, I was so surprised that instead of eating, she was looking at Prince Aero with her shining eyes. She looked like a love struck teen!

Oi, Oi… Even a young kid was attracted to Prince Aero’s charm!

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My heart has been beating wildly as I feel troubled about that cold voice… I arrived in front of the saucepan deeply puzzled and in a loss.

Did I really just miss it?

A hand suddenly grabbed my right arm. Shocked, I looked at Chef Bronze puzzlingly. He then pointed out the saucepan in fire. Thankfully he saved me or I could have burn my hands…

Breathe in, Breathe out.

Calming myself, I once again asked them to create another set of chocolates but this time with fillings in it.

This time, I’ll know for sure. I looked at Milka’s departing back as they were now going out of the kitchen. I asked Cook Bronze to roast the almond seeds while the other cook assistants make another batch of chocolate.

It was rather easy for the chocolate to harden so this should be ready before dinner come. This time I will look at Milka attentively.

Sure enough, Cook Bronze did not disappoint as the roasted almonds were now in beautiful brown shade. I tried one and it was roasted well. It was fine even if eating it alone.

Jane and the other maid who I asked to buy some shape moulder also arrived and we could apply proper shape to the second batch of chocolate now. They were able to buy a variety and I have chosen the shell, rose and leaf shaped moulders. Remembering the cake recipe I had just finished writing, I asked Jane to take it from the drawer. I should give it to Cook Bronze later for him to study.

“We could place roasted almonds on this leaf and shell shaped moulders, while the rose shaped one should be pure chocolate.”

They all agreed to my idea and we began to pour the newly made chocolate mixture into the moulds. Now I could only wait before dinner. I stayed at the dining area and waited until the family has seated. Right after we finished eating dinner, the housekeeper then served the chilled chocolates.

“You may try it guys, the rose shaped one is pure chocolate while the leaf and shell shaped ones have some almond inside.”

I watched closely as Milka tasted each chocolate but I could not hear the cold voice!

What happened? I clearly thought Milka was the medium…

With invisible tears, I can’t help but lament.

This time it is a sleepless night!

*******

“Young Lady… Young Lady…”

I could hear Jane’s voice but I was still so sleepy… I think drowsiness finally came into me after I have painstakingly written few more set of recipes. For optimism, I concluded that it may be because that chocolate type was not to her liking so she never spoke out.

“Young Lady… Young Lady…” This time urgency was apparent to Jane’s voice and she began to lightly shake me.

Groggily, I opened my eyes then Jane’s next word poured cold water on me – instantly waking me up. Turns out it was now near lunch time and Princess Lotte has arrived two hours ago. Almond Joy also came and they were now in the dining area being entertained by the duke and duchess.

What’s with the sudden visit?!

I am now panicking that I even urged Jane to tell a lie – informing the group that I happened to catch a small cold so I just woke up.

Rushing to the bathroom, I only proceeded to make a quick half bathe, just to make sure that my face and hair were clean enough. In swift motion, I changed into the pink wench Victorian Renaissance style off shoulder dress hanged in the drawer.

In quick steps, I arrived in the dining only to find that the number of visitors was totally different from what Jane has reported! The said visitors were not only Princess Lotte and Almond Joy but the three main eye candy of this world were also present!

Looking at Jane who has her head bowed down, I guess her real task was to urge me to arrive here in haste. The knowledge that I am afraid of Princess Lotte was not unknown to the family so maybe that’s why Jane only mentioned Almond Joy and the princess.

Looking at the current situation, I still can’t help but feel perplexed. Why would they all gather here?

Just what day is it that they graced their presence here?!

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The soft knock stopped me from writing. Looking at the four sheets filled with recipe, I was glad I have at least finished writing them.

Jane came into view and I handed her the Chocolate recipe. “The cooks were done preparing for lunch?”

“Yes Young Lady, Cook Bronze added to inform you as well that you could instruct them freely.”

“Good, you proceed to the kitchen first and bring that recipe. I’ll follow after finishing this one.”

Jane nodded in accent and quietly left the room. I am currently writing a chocolate cake recipe and since I am already half way through, it would be better to finish this first.

When I went to the kitchen, Cook Bronze hands were trembling as he held the recipe. His eyes were even sparkling. I guess anyone would be amazed to see such unknown recipe.

“Let’s prepare the ingredients first.” I spoke to gather their attention. The assistant cooks then swiftly moved and gathered all the ingredients needed.

“Alright, you could follow each procedure written and ask me in case you want some clarifications.”

They nodded at my words and started the work. Since there was only an hour left before lunch time, with the recipe in hand they could at least finish the job without me monitoring them.

As the saucepan of water is being heated up, the others mix the cocoa powder and butter into thick paste. Looking at them thrilled while working, I can’t help but anticipate the chocolate they made. They always say that the cook’s emotions were added to a food’s taste. When the water was heated up, the cocoa mixture was then poured in while Cook Bronze stirs it carefully.

We were waiting for it to simmer when the Duke and Duchess called for me to have lunch. “You don’t have any questions about the recipe right?” I asked just to make sure.

“Yes Young Lady, the recipe was thoroughly written so it was easy to understand and follow.” Cook Bronze answered with a smile.

“Alright, I’ll leave the rest to you guys. By the way about the cooling part…”

“Don’t worry Young Lady, the ice cellar has plenty of space.” Cook Bronze assured and I smiled at them as I moved towards the dining area.

The family were already seated and they were chatting merrily as they wait for me. I took the left seat as usual and Milka was seated on my right.

“I heard you are introducing yet another dessert.” Duchess Pepper asked.

“Yes Mother, but it was not entirely a dessert, you could eat it as much as you want any time.”

Their faces were delighted and we began the meal while chatting for the possible desserts with chocolate on it.

“Since you know a lot, I think we should consider selling them. The King even encouraged me to start with this business in our letter exchanges.”

Who would say no to extra money?  

With a humble smile I nodded and the Duke and Duchess then began talking about the things to prepare excitedly. I also added that we should think of a unique wrapper for the products so more would be encourage trying our products.

After the hearty lunch, I proceeded to the kitchen with Minte and Milka in tow.

“Young Lady!” Cook Bronze excitedly welcomed me. “We finished the process already but since we don’t have some fancy moulds yet, we only made it into a simple rectangular shape and drawn some bar lines as you have instructed in the recipe.”

“That would be fine, appearance is not our main concern yet. Do you remember the paper like thing with smooth side? I would like to try something with it.”

“Oh that?, Wait for a while Young Lady.” Cook Bronze then came back with the peach colored parchment paper. When I saw this in the store I was truly surprised that parchment papers were already available in this world.

Since there was still an hour left before we could proceed to the ice cellar, I wanted to try creating paper wraps using the parchment paper. With a handless tea cup as the mold, I turned it upside down and I firmly pressed the cut out square parchment paper around it. Estimating it is now good enough, I then I lifted the paper. Surprisingly, the finished product was a cutely formed cup.

“We could try using this as container” Since it was peach colored I had the inspiration of putting cupid hearts on it. With the quill pen I doodled while waiting. Seeing my enjoyment, Minte and Milka tried making one too.

We have finished at least six cutely designed parchment wrappers when one of Cook Bronze attendant informed us that we could now proceed to the ice cellar. He also talked merrily as he guided as towards the ice cellar.

The ice cellar was surprisingly a room with arched opening. The first thing I thought was that I am in a snow field area. The entire room was filled in white except for the central area where black shelves were layered neatly. It was sure cold and the magical thing was that we really don’t need to enter further as a dwarf like figure appeared and Cook Bronze talked with him.

He then ran back to us bearing a small box. When Cook Bronze opened it, four rectangular shaped chocolates where neatly placed inside and it was already hard.

We went out of the ice cellar and when I asked for a knife to cut one of the bars, Cook Bronze did the job right ahead. The chocolate was cold and when I put it in my mouth its rich and high milk content overflowed, the combination was amazing. Since I preferred dark chocolates, this is a little too sweet for me.

“You try it guys. This was made perfectly. Good Job.”

Cook Bronze’s happiness seemed to overflow as he tries the chocolate. “This chocolate is surely good.” He even licked his lips as he spoke.

Now, I am waiting for the voice to echo out once more.

Milka and Minte simultaneously tasted the chocolate and their eyes displayed their delight. Milka’s cheek in particular bulged as she placed few more bars in her small mouth.

Hmmm… That should surely be the case as this was the first time you taste it.

My pride rose as I looked at her charmed expression but there seems to be something wrong…

Ah – the voice!

That cold voice never spoke and Milka was just enjoying the chocolate!

Surely… Hahaha I just missed the voice didn’t I?

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Hah.

I sighed in relief when the coldness was totally gone. The group was then reverted back but they did not mind a clean dessert plate… It was as if the newly introduced dessert was totally forgotten.

When I went to my room, I can’t help but associate the mysterious woman to the kid, I mean Milka. But with this in conclusion, I truly felt happy. Judging from her reaction, she wanted sweets and if I could satisfy her with that, I could surely return.

Tomorrow I’ll introduce the best sweet ever!

I guess I don’t really need two weeks! I could settle this in four days!

With this in mind, I have slept with my sweetest smile.

*******

The morning came with my mind fully refreshed. It was still six in the morning but I’m truly pumped up on testing my hypothesis.

After I have freshened up, I asked Jane to guide me towards Milka’s room only to be surprised to meet the little girl in the balcony. She woke up earlier than I do.

“Good Morning! Did you have a good sleep?”

Milka looked at me and smiled. “Thank you for being good…”

Cough. I felt embarrassed as the little girl seemed to have guessed that I was not that welcoming yesterday.

“Do you like to have some meringue biscuit or perhaps some hot cocoa?” I asked to change the topic.

Milka then blinked excitedly as she showed her excitement. Hand in hand, we went to the dining in tow. We bumped into Minte on the way but seeing that the Duke and Duchess were not in the dining yet, we changed our direction.

Minte on the other hand decided to come with us to the kitchen.

Seeing Cook Bronze fully energetic, I asked him to prepare the ingredients needed. In a swift motion, he presented everything I asked. While the small saucepan was placed in a low heat, I then poured at least three spoonful of cocoa powder. I also added three pinches of salt and about a quarter cup of goat milk. While whisking it together, I slowly added sugar following my own estimation, since goat milk here is fresh and sweet I only added two sugar cubes. Seeing that the cocoa and sugar cubes was totally dissolved I then lifted the saucepan from the fire.

This should at least be sufficient for the four of us. Pouring the hot cocoa into four small cups, I urged the group to taste it. “If it is not yet sweet for you, you could still add sugar as it is still hot anyway.”

Anticipating for the mysterious voice to appear once more, I watched as the cup touched Milka’s lips. I am overjoyed as the cold voice once again echoed out.

[Add more sugar here.]

I happily obliged as I added two more sugar cubes into Milka’s cup. After the mysterious woman finished the cup of hot cocoa, the group returned to normal and Milka seemed to be full too.

The mysterious woman has sweet tooth. Surely with chocolate, I could clearly subdue her in no time.

Similarly, Cook Bronze began to prepare another batch of hot cocoa for the Duke and Duchess to taste. After enjoying breakfast with the family, I went back to the kitchen to inform them that I would like their help for creating our new dessert and we could start right after they finished preparing for our lunch.

Filled with excitement, I went back to my room to write some sweet recipes.

For now I should compile everything I knew how to make.

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After seeing that the ingredients I bought were already settled properly, I can’t help but anticipate making some sweets.

Looking at the time, it was only a few hours before dinner time so meringue cookies would be the easiest one to make now. Gathering the cooks, I began to explain the process of making meringue. As usual, Cook Bronze seemed to realize my intention right before I finish the whole recipe.

With enthusiasm, they began to separate egg whites and its yolk. Since this is a trial for them we tried only one egg for each. Looking at them rhythmically beating the egg whites is truly amazing. It looked like they were experts themselves. Of course I only instruct as I can’t do the job without mixer…

When the egg whites turn frothy, they carefully added a pinch of salt and the cream of tartar known here as tartar salt. They started beating the egg whites again until soft peaks form. With my instruction, they then added a spoonful of sugar and repeated the process of beating until the sugar was dissolved and stiff peaks form.

Happily scooping a little from Cook Bronze bowl, I tasted a well made meringue. I then demonstrated how to form a beautifully shaped meringue cookie. After carefully layering it in the baking plate, I asked them to watch it every 15 minutes as I am not so sure how to use this brick oven. It would be nice if there is the things here were already modern.

After leaving the kitchen, I found that Minte has already brought the little girl to the library. I guess Minte wanted a younger sibling so he was so good at that girl, but in reality it was too doubtful to accept some unknown kid into ones home…

Knock! Knock!

After announcing my presence, I entered the library and found a merry Duke and Duchess. Pepper was even affectionately rubbing the little girl’s hair.

What happened? What’s with this situation?

“Big sis!” Minte stood up and guided me to sit down. “Father and Mother decided to adopt her. She will now be called Milka as she has a snow white skin.”

“Ah?? She could be a hallow you know?”I can’t help but blurt out.

“…”  The people in the room then guffawed.

“What are you talking about? What hallows?” The Duke asked in between laughing.

“Huh???” What? They are not aware of Hallows existence?

“Anyway from now on, you will be having a younger sister – Milka.” The duke looked at the young girl lovingly then his gaze turned to me. “I heard you are instructing the kitchen to make some cookies?”

“Ah yes… it was a meringue cookie made from egg whites…” I answered absentmindedly as I am still at loss why they were not aware of a Hallows existence!

The duke then excitedly declared that it was now time for us to go the dining. I even walked into the dining looking at the back of the three people before me in shock. They really accepted the kid without any second thought and this scene seemed that they have been getting along for a long time! On the way, I asked the maids if they knew about Hallows but they too were unsure of what Hallow is…

I don’t know why, but everyone seemed to be not aware of Hallows existence… Was it because I truly never focused on Hallows existence themselves but on Ghirar only?

Ai, let’s just enjoy the meringue cookies, hopefully they made it properly. When dinner came, the dessert served were still the caramelized fruits with the new addition of meringue cookies. The meringue cookies where in pure white color and it surely melts when it enters the mouth!

[Hmmm… this is a fine sweet. I guess you have started to fulfil your debt]

I almost choked on the meringue I have eaten. The cold voice once again echoed out!

Where is she?

I looked around yet I could not find her!

I was even so scared to see that the people in the dining area have turned into statues! I gulped as I could only watch as the big dessert plate is being eaten clean…

Is she a glutton?

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Looking at the angelic looking kid I can’t help but think if it was deliberate. Judging how young she was, it would be impossible for her to go out alone. But since she wore a pair of old clothes she could be an orphan or a beggar… but her hair truly bothers me. I am certain she is a Hallow!

Is she being pursued? It was too odd for a Hallow to pop out in the middle of the road…

We were staring at her when she stirred awake. Blinking at us with her innocent gaze, I can’t help but feel guilty. I doubt a little kid looking this innocent…

Clearing my thought, I inquired for her name gently.

“…”

The kid seemed to freeze for a while then she slowly shook her small head. Brewing tears were also visible in her eyes.

“Ahh… please don’t cry. We will have you checked first and for the mean time you could join us.” Minte voiced out as he seemed to be panicky seeing that the little girl would cry.

The little girl blinked then a small smile appeared in her face. “Thank you big brother!” She also did not forget to blink cutely.

Why do I feel like she was waiting for Minte’s words to come out?

The kid looked at me innocently and showed her sweet smile revealing her white teeth. I was about to ask her further question when the carriage halted. The carriage door then opened and Ron declared that we are now in the clinic.

Since the kid was awake, we just supported her walk down and enter the building. It looked like a residential area but a sign indicating that the doctor is in was posted at the door. Knocking and entering, I found that the ground floor was styled like that of a clinic.

“We would like to have her checked. She seemed to have lost her memories.”

“Oh my! What happened to her?” The middle aged woman came forward and asked concernedly. She then proceeded to check the kid’s vision and pulse.

“Ah- Um, she suddenly popped in front of our carriage…” Minte explained

“Judging from her pulse, she is completely fine. Maybe due to shock she has temporary amnesia. Just to make sure, let her drink this.” The woman rummages for a while and gave us a small vial. “That is use to calm nerves.”

Paying and thanking for the consultation made, we went back to the carriage with the kid in tow.

“Big Sis, what do we do now?” Minte looked at the little girl gripping the vial tightly.

“Let’s head to the bookstore then, you said there is food there too right? I think this little girl is hungry too.” The little kid blushed then nodded shyly. “For the mean time, we could let her tag with us during our shopping.”

Minte and the kid both seemed to be relieved. I can’t help but think that Minte is too kind… Right now, he was even supporting the kid as she gulped the vial’s content.

Why do I really feel that this kid is not so simple? Is it just me over thinking?

Arriving at the bookstore, I was surprised to find a three storey tavern. A huge sign with ‘Gustav’s’ written on it was pinned at the top. This whole building is a bookstore? The owner was sure rich!

“The books are at the second and third floor. The ground floor is an eatery.” Minte explained.

“Let’s go and fill our stomach first.” After ordering Uncle Coachman and Ron to come in once they have parked the carriage, we then entered the building.

The ambiance inside was pretty good as even the diners talks in low voices. There were circular tables decorated simply but the place was neat and clean. Surprisingly, menu’s were available and it was clipped in a small board. After ordering the food, I decided to go up as it was said that the food will be ready in half an hour time.

Thankfully the stairs was not too high, when I reached the second floor, neat rows of shelves where arranged in a semi circle formation while there where long tables at the side, this place looked like a nicely designed library.

After carefully looking at each books section, I finally found books that I liked. Surprisingly there were written romance book and horror books here. Picking up at least 10 books, I moved to the cashier area to pay. Books here was surely expensive as one cost a gold coin. Being a novelist here is not a bad deal!

When I went down, the foods were already served. Ron and Uncle Coachman with the little girl sat to the table adjacent to us. Looking at the colourful dishes, I can’t help but drool. Thankfully the food here was so delicious and the only downsides were the desserts.

With our stomach full, we proceeded to the fruit area first. Fruits here were similarly like on earth and all of them are fresh, no one seemed to be scamming and selling not fresh goods. After the basket was full with fruits, we looked for some kitchen ingredient.

Entering a two-storey tavern famous with it kitchen supplies, I truly felt surprised as every ingredient for making sweets are here! It was just that it was not very famous and even the precious almond , coffee and cocoa seeds where just gathering molds!

Fufu, I did not only manage to have a discount, they even gave me the cocoa and almonds seeds for free!

“Since were done, we could now go home” I voiced out as I climbed on the carriage. Noticing that Minte is not climbing up and the group’s gaze tells me I forgot something, I then noticed the little girl gripping Minte’s hem tightly.

“Let’s buy some clean clothes for her first. We could take her with us and discuss things with Father and Mother then.”

For the mean time, I’ll go along with Minte. The Duke and Duchess would surely be suspicious of this little girl anyway.

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The dinner was in the same way – sumptuous. But knowing that my lie pulled me into a pit, I can’t help but tremble.

The heroine was supposed to be the only one deemed to be an Enlightened after Sun God’s Blessing!

Caramelle would realize that she was gifted with knowledge for engineering right after the ceremony – making it the start of her prestige and daily interaction with the royalties. 

Judging from the Duke’s reaction, he had already sent a letter to the palace.

“Ah— Stress!!!!”

Punching and pulling the pillows, I tried to relieve myself. At times like this, chocolates would really be helpful!

Haist!, Kiaria, Kiaria, let’s just focus for tomorrow instead!

I’ll just worry about the enlightened issue during the Thanksgiving Day. At least I have four days left. During these days, I’ll find that mysterious woman as I indulge myself with sweets!

*******

When I woke up, the sun was already up. My limbs ached as I wrestled with my pillows last night till my strength left me.

Knock! Knock!

Jane came in, and seeing me still in bed, she asked in surprise.

“Young Lady, Young master’s attendant would like to confirm if you will still go shopping.”

Right, I asked Minte to go with me.

“Inform him that we will proceed. We will also just have lunch outside.”

“Ahm, Young Lady, do you really not need help with the bath?” Jane asked in assurance. Opposite of the real Hershey, I don’t want to be seen while bathing. I could do it alone anyway.

“Yes, I’ll be fine. Oh just prepare me some male clothing.” Yawning, I waved at Jane who was staring at me in disbelief when she heard her task.

It should be fine staying in the bathe for at least half an hour. With that in thought, I moved towards the bathroom and soaked in the hot bathe.

It feels so good~

When I went out, I found a red medieval tunic and a black cargo kilt. Jane also prepared a black pants and high boots. In fairness she has some fashion style.

Yesterday, I asked Pepper to go with us during dinner but she seemed to be busy and since I’ll only go with Minte and his attendant, it would be better if I am dressed as a man too. Looking at my own reflection in the mirror, I can’t help but feel pumped up as I looked better in man’s suit.

Moving out, I found a black carriage with the Almonds insignia. Minte was already standing before the carriage wearing a suit similar to mine but in navy shade.

“We could go.” I urged the coachman when we were all seated inside the carriage. “Let’s go to the bookstore first then we will proceed with buying some cooking ingredients.”

“Alright, were you preparing something delicious again?” Minte asked in anticipation.

“Right, the sugar candy you tasted yesterday was only a prelude to sweetness. I’ll be introducing other sweet delicacies soon.”

Arriving at the marketplace, I began to admire the bustling place. As there were separate road for carriage and people, the carriage was able to move forward with ease. This setup was thought carefully and it was implemented properly.

“I think we should grab something light to eat first. Do you know a place like that?” Looking at young kids, walking and eating some sandwich I can’t help but yearn for some.

“Hmmm…  I usually eat at the bookstore so I am not familiar with the other shops.”

“Oh… ” Then let’s ask our guide. Knocking at the small carriage window right next to the coachman, Ron, Minte’s assistant peeped in. “Ron, do you know a place that serves light snacks, sandwiches and the like.”

“We could turn left to the next street Young Lady, there is a famous café there.”

“Alright, we’ll head there first. Then to the bookstore before buying the ingredients.”

With a salute, the small window was once again closed. I clearly felt that the carriage was about to turn left when the carriage suddenly halted. Thankfully I am seated properly or else I’ll be head smack on the carriage floor.

“What happened?” Minte shouted in concern.

Ron opened the small window and voiced out. “Young master, a young child suddenly popped out and she is currently unconscious.”

“Oh? Did we bump into her?” Minte asked worriedly

“I don’t think we really hit her but she maybe too shocked that she passed out…”

“Is there a nearby clinic around here. Let’s head there first then. For the mean time carry the child in.” I voiced out.

When the kid was brought in, I was so surprised to find a small child around four to five years old, she wore an old pair of clothes but what attracted my attention more was her long black hair…

This color… Black hair was unique to Hallows!

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Arriving at Minte’s room, Jane knocked politely and Minte opened the door.

Plastered with a sweet smile, I asked. “Minte, may we come in?”

Though surprised, Minte opened the door widely and I came in calmly. Jane on the other hand was fidgeting more. Ai, this young maid surely think I’ll make something evil again…

When I stepped inside, I’m surprised to find that the room was decorated like an office style. Unlike mine where the luxurious bed was exposed right after entering, the room here was divided into two. There was another door leading to the bedroom while there were three shelves lined up against the wall. Before the big shelves were two-seater sofas facing each other with a glass table in between. There was also a small desk at the corner looking like a president’s desk. The azure colored walls also accented to a refreshing feeling.

Seating comfortably on one of the sofa, I commended his room. “Your room is to my liking. Minte do you have some story books?”

“Ah?” Minte’s look was so funny. His deep set eyes turned rounded and with his slightly chubby face he looked like a confused little rabbit.

*Chuckles*

“I said, do you have some story books here?” Seeing that he was still filled with confusion and disbelief, I stood and look for a book in his shelves instead.

Contrary to my expectation, what I found were titles all about war, politics and history. He was a 12 year old right? His interest where so deep…

Seeing my distressed expression, Minte knocked on the last shelf. The lower rack then rotated revealing differently styled books.

“Were you referring to these? How did you know I hid some?” Minte asked seriously.

Haha, so this kid was just keeping some comic book in secrecy. Wait, I also need a shelf like this!

“I didn’t, I just guessed.” I winked at him while carefully taking some books out.

These were really fantasy books… but it was just like those kids bedtime story books! “Erm, Minte where did you buy this?” Perhaps there would be a book that would interest me there.

“At the market…”

“Hmm, Ok then, let’s go shopping tomorrow…  Accompany me to that bookstore. I also need some things to make some descent sweets.”

“Ok?” Minte seemed to still be in disbelief but there was a trace of happiness in his face.

Knock! Knock!

A young male attendant entered, he was pretty surprised seeing me in the room.

“It’s now time for dinner. The Duke and Duch—Mistress is already at the dining area…” his voice was quivering and he seemed to be so unsure if he did the right thing.

“From now on you can call Mother as Duchess… Forget of addressing her as mistress in front of me. Tell this to the other servants too…” I need to seriously address this.

“Yes, Young Lady!” Jane and the young man voiced in unison.

Patting Minte’s head, I comforted. “Don’t worry. I fully accepted you two. Your mother – I mean Mother is a now the real Duchess anyway.”

Minte gave me a bright smile and we moved towards the dining area in tow.

“Congratulations!”

I was initially surprised with the sudden greeting. Looking at the lined up servants and their merry expressions, I smiled in reply.

But I’m still confused as to why I’m being congratulated.

“Congratulations for being an Enlightened.” The Duke handed me a purple box. Pepper on the other hand did the same but it was in pink shade.

Huh??? Me? Enlightened?

What the hell did I do!!!

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Knock! Knock!

After announcing her presence, the housekeeper then entered the library. Seeing that both her masters were inside, she bowed politely and began to address her concern.

“Duke Salte, Young Lady seemed to be an Enlightened…”

Expression of shock and delight were both visible from the Duke and Duchess faces.

“Explain the things clearly Anie.” Pepper encouraged with soft voice.

“Young Lady went to the kitchen to a while ago to ask for some dessert but when the cook gave her cookies, she suggested making some sweets instead. She explained to the cooks that it would be easy. She then discussed the detail of how it would be done to Cook Bronze. I heard it was only melting the sugar and turn it into a caramelized form… When asked how she knew how to make it, Young lady explained that when she woke up after receiving Sun God’s Blessing, she has this knowledge. I did not get to see the finished product as I rushed here to relay the information.”

Duke Salte excitedly stood and swiftly and moved towards the kitchen. Duchess Pepper and the housekeeper then followed behind.

When they arrived at the kitchen, the servants were cheering for a ‘Sugar Candy’. Everyone has a dessert plate with some cube with varied colors. Some were a little lighter and darker but the eye catching ones were the golden brown color. Noticing their presence, the servants was shocked but quickly saluted and bowed politely.

“I want to taste one of those too.” Duke Salte uttered as he went near Cook Bronze. The assistant cooks hurriedly provided them with a dessert plate. Thankfully, there were at least few cubes left from what the head cook has made.

After tasting the sweetness and freshness at the same time, the Duke was once again delighted. He needs to inform His Majesty about this. His spirit soared and he moved out of the kitchen to write a letter as soon as possible.

Noticing her husband’s excitement, Pepper just shook her head and ordered Cook Bronze to share the recipe with great detail. She was pretty sure the Duke would be back asking for this.

Cook Bronze then swiftly recorded every procedure as Hershey described. Right after he finished writing, the Duke really came back.

Pepper smiled and took the written recipe. “Here dear, don’t forget to attach the recipe.” The duke laughed and walked out of the kitchen hand in hand with Pepper.

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Oblivious of the ruckus the imparted recipe has made, I ate the caramelized pears with relish. Though it could only be considered as a sugar candy, nonetheless I finally had something truly sweet. When I reached for one more, I noticed that the dessert plate that was previously filled with caramelized pears now was fully emptied.

Seated against the headboard, I sighed as I felt bored. There were no entertainments here… no television nor cellphones…

Since technology is nowhere, there should at least be some interesting books here… Ringing the small golden bell at the bedside table, the young maid from this morning came in.

“Hi! What was your name again?”

The young maid fidgeted, unsure whether she should really give out her name. I can’t help but tap my forehead. The previous Hershey would only ask for a name as that certain maid would surely be fired.

“Don’t worry, I won’t fire you. I only need your name to address you properly.” I did not forget to show my smile. The young maid seemed to breathe a relief.

“Young Lady, you may call me Jane. What would you like me to do Young Lady?”

“Jane is a nice name. Hmmm, are there any books here? I meant, story books not those from the library…” Hershey was not really fond of reading but she did spend time at the library learning history. I bet there would be no romance books in that place.

“This Young Lady, I am not sure… Most books where in the library and Young Master Minte has his own collection.”

“Oh Minte has one?” Curious as to what books a 12 year old could keep, I asked Jane to guide me to Minte’s room. Seeing a grin from my face, Jane hurried out and guided me towards my younger brother’s room. Perhaps there could be some fantasy comic book.

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With my mind running wild with imagination, I have the sudden urged to wolf down some sweets. Remembering that there were really no sweet things here, I shed invisible tears.

Right, if there was none, I could make one!

Suddenly energized with this thought, I hurried out of the room after securely placing the suspect list under the pile of clean paper sheets.

Clang!

The moment I arrived at the kitchen, the group of maids gathered in circle panicked and clattering noises echoed out instantly. Even the cooks preparing for dinner inside the kitchen counter was startled with the sudden noise that the bowl they held dropped on the floor.

Face palm. I did not really intend to scare them…

Seeing the mess, I can’t help but take one of the brooms on the side and started to sweep. The dazed maids began to panic once again and tried to take the broom from me simultaneously.

“Girls calm down.” I can’t help but voice out.

The entire crowd then stayed put. Looking at them like this, I feel bad for them all of the sudden. I really disregarded them as they were minor characters…

Taking the chance as most of the servants are here, I bowed in apology. “As I have explained during lunch, thanks to Sun God’s Blessing I realized every mistake I made. From now, let’s work together and please continue your loyalty.”

I let them take the broom from me and helped in settling the kitchen counter now littered with ingredients. The chubby middle aged man wearing a white full sleeve tunic seemed to be the chef here. But he seemed to be missing his toque.

 “Uhm, Chef… what do you usually prepare for dessert?”

“Haha, Young Lady you can just call me Cook Bronze, Chef is too grand.” Though refuting, happiness was so obvious on his expression.

“Well then, I’ll address you to be Chef Bronze from now on.” Cook Bronze just laughed at it merrily.

Hmm…Though he was happy, he did not really claim the title. There seems to be some criteria’s set before a cook becomes a chef. This may explain why he does not have a toque…

“Ah yes, Young Lady, what did you come here for?”

 “Ehm, I would like to suggest something else as a dessert for tonight.”

Cook Bronze looked at me surprisingly. “What would that dessert be Young Lady?”

“Oh that, let me check for ingredients first.”

Since the things were tidied up swiftly, few maids approached me with caution. I could still see their nervousness but they seem to be eager to be ordered.

Seeing their eagerness, I then asked for some ingredients. There were variety of fruits but unluckily, there is no vanilla or caramel for an instant dip. Fully anticipating sweets, I just asked some of the maids to peel of the skin of the pears and cut it up into cube shapes. My first thought was to eat some caramelized pears.

To put it in action I asked Cook Bronze to prepare a metal pot for melting the sugar. His assistants then moved to get the things I have said. Quickly explaining the logic of creating caramelized sugar, Cook Bronze was so amazed with the new discovery.

“I didn’t know Young Lady would be talented in the kitchen!”

Haha… Right! I forgot, this place has no concept what so ever on creating sweets…

“I think I had this knowledge when I wake up after the ceremony…”

Gasp!

The maids who were cleaning the pears made a surprised sound. Judging from their shocked and amazed expression, I may have given a wrong answer…

“Congratulations to Young Lady! You were enlightened and gifted with knowledge of the kitchen!”

Ah?

The housekeeper who was quiet at the side then curtsied and hurriedly went out of the kitchen. Paying no heed to the housekeeper’s action, I proceeded to instruct Cook Bronze and his assistants on what has to be done. They then began to gently stir the sugar that was now melting. So far, Cook Bronze has the perfect colored one. When it turned into golden brown color I asked him to transfer it into the bowl. While it’s hot, we dipped and rolled the cubed shaped pears inside the bowl, the white pear was instantly coated with the caramelized sugar. After it was exposed to air, it has now hardened up into beautiful golden brown cube.

Picking one, I quickly put it in my mouth. Ai, the sweetness was just right! Then the freshness of the pear would soon come out after a bite, balancing the sweetness – making you crave for more.

Giving out the thumbs up sign, I urged the others to try the sugar candy we made. They all expressed their approval of the caramelized pear.

“Young Lady, what is this called?”

“We could call it as ‘Sugar Candy’…. We could simply eat the melted sugar itself but having fruit within would be better. By the way, this could be applied to any fruits, except for the sour ones of course.”

With a nod, Cook Bronze was impressed. “Sugar Candy huh, don’t worry Young Lady, I’ll add this for tonight’s dinner.”

Pleased, I gave him an ok sign and filled my own dessert plate with caramelized pears.

With this, I’ll finally start to indulge myself with sweets.

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