The civil official course lectures wouldn't progress without the professors announcing exam dates. I sent ordonnance requests for examinations to the civil official course professors, and come the start of the week, replies started arriving one after another. I was coordinating schedules with my attendants, but there was still no word from Frauerlam.
Given that she had made Ehrenfest her yearly target for all sorts of scheming, I suspected she might pull something like "I'm terribly sorry, but I didn't have time to set aside a slot for your exam" or "I never received any ordonnance or letter"—pushing the limits of what a teacher's authority could get away with in terms of petty harassment.
"I wonder what Professor Frauerlam will pull this year."
When
"Even if she expanded the exam content somewhat beyond the normal range, it was proven last year that Lady
Philine's answer was a bit off the mark, and
"As Lady Rozemyne has considered, even if Professor Frauerlam has no intention of conducting an individual exam, wouldn't it suffice to simply pass on the final exam day? I think it would be acceptable to leave Professor Frauerlam's lectures for last and begin your socializing and research in the meantime."
"If all I cared about was passing, that would be fine."
However, failing to pass the lectures before the final exam day would lower my evaluation, and I wouldn't reach the "best overall" status I'd promised
After finishing breakfast and heading to the multi-purpose hall, I began discussing the broad outline of the joint research with
"When Professor
"Rozemyne, I think it's important to discuss the joint research with the civil official apprentices, but shouldn't you consult with Father first?"
"I did mention in my daily reports that we would be starting joint research with Drewanchel, centered on Wilfried and Charlotte's retainers. …But surely there's no need for the Aub's approval on a research topic for Academy students?"
I didn't think anyone at the Academy reported or got permission for their student research topics. When I tilted my head, saying "I don't think it's something that requires consultation," Wilfried and Charlotte exchanged glances.
"No, normally it's not needed. But given that you're the one proposing it, it doesn't feel like a normal student's research no matter how you look at it."
"If it's the paper research, it's deeply tied to Ehrenfest's core industry. I think you should consult with Father and Mother beforehand, Big Sis."
Being told this by both of them, I answered, "Well, I've already reported it, so let's wait for Ehrenfest's response."
"But what we're doing with Drewanchel is research into the uses of paper made from magic trees. We're not teaching them how to make paper, so I don't think it's that closely tied to our core industry…"
"Is that so?"
"Yes. I want them to research the uses of the mysterious paper made from Ilgner's magic trees, and how to improve its quality as a Magical Tool. The method of making the paper itself is an important social bargaining chip and falls under the Archduke Conference. I won't be revealing it in Academy research."
I turned to
"Even with Rinsham, which is relatively simple to make, they weren't able to fully replicate it just from hearing that you add scrub. I don't think they could replicate paper with more complex processes requiring lots of equipment. And more importantly, I don't think they'd believe that Commoners are producing paper with effects like those of a Magical Tool."
"That's certainly something they wouldn't think. Magical Tools are things only Nobility can create."
For Ignaz and Marianne, it was apparently hard to believe that ordinary paper and magic tree paper could be made using the same method in the workshop. It seemed that magic-infused Magical Tools were made through alchemical processes.
"Just as we sold the method of making Rinsham at the Archduke Conference to balance the supply and demand of vegetable oil, I'd like to spread the method of making paper to other duchies as well, so that Ehrenfest's trees aren't over-harvested. But don't you think we should sell it for as high a price as possible?"
I narrowed my eyes with a glint as I looked at Wilfried and Charlotte.
"This joint research is meant to increase the value of Ehrenfest paper by leveraging Drewanchel. I want them to research how much Magical Tool quality the paper made by Commoners actually has, how to use it most effectively, and what can be done to improve its quality as a Magical Tool. Depending on the research results, the value of our papermaking method could shoot way up, and we could raise the price accordingly."
"Rozemyne, you're making a rather scary face."
…Oh no. I let my merchant mode show a bit too much?
At Wilfried's slightly alarmed observation, I clamped my mouth shut for a moment, then gave a bright smile. It seemed I needed to switch off the merchant brain.
"It's important for raising Ehrenfest's value, you know."
"But if you've already thought that far ahead, wouldn't it be better for you to lead the research yourself, Big Sister?"
"The research itself, perhaps… but I really shouldn't have much contact with Professor Gundolf."
"Why not? Is he harassing you or something?"
Charlotte's expression shifted, and I hurriedly shook my head.
"No, nothing like that. It's just that even if he asked how to make paper, I wouldn't be able to explain it to Ignaz or Marianne. That's precisely why it's safe."
If one had read the reports, the theoretical construction method might be in one's head. But without having actually made it, explaining it well enough for others to understand would be difficult.
"Safe? What do you mean?"
"I can't leak what I don't know, but if I were to work with Professor Gundolf, there's a chance I might accidentally let something slip. That is something I absolutely must avoid."
I knew full well how clumsy I could be and how easily words tumbled out of my mouth. I also knew that without thinking, I'd get drawn into small things in an instant. Right now I could still think calmly, but when facing the shrewd Gundolf, I would undoubtedly get swept up and end up saying things I shouldn't.
In that case, it was better not to get close in the first place.
…A wise person keeps away from danger! This is true risk avoidance. I've grown a little. Heh heh.
"What should I do if Professor Gundolf requests information about the paper-making method?"
"This joint research is about how to use the Magical Tool, so there's no need to teach Professor Gundolf how to make paper. If he wants to study the manufacturing process, I'd say 'please do it yourself—this falls under Archduke Conference matters.'"
"Understood."
We worked out the scope of the research and what knowledge could be shared, and I sent a report to Ehrenfest on the scope of the joint research along with a request to send paper made from Ilgner's magic trees.
Then I took the civil official course exams and passed them one after another. To my surprise, no matter which exam I went to, the professors asked me about the joint research with the greater duchy. Apparently, the rumors had spread considerably.
I answered, "I haven't obtained the Aub's approval yet, so it's not finalized," but I was met with skeptical looks. That was because both of my sources happened to be dormitory supervisors. Luewen and Gundolf were apparently both quite enthusiastic and had been busily spreading the rumors to build a foundation.
Then Frauerlam's reply arrived via ordonnance: "If it's tomorrow morning, I can make time." The response was a bit late, but since I'd expected to be either ignored or told she couldn't make time, I was quite surprised.
…I had perhaps been too hard on Professor Frauerlam's words and actions. I'm sorry.
She might pull a few petty stunts, but she would still do the bare minimum as a teacher. Apologizing inwardly, I sent my acknowledgment. Immediately after that, an ordonnance from Hirschur arrived.
"Even though rumors are spreading about joint research between the greater duchy and Ehrenfest, no mention has been made of joint research with
It seemed that Frauerlam's reply had come thanks to Professor Hirschur. I reported via ordonnance that Frauerlam had replied with an exam schedule, and I thanked her.
Then another ordonnance flew in.
"In Frauerlam's exam, use the joint research with Ahrensbach as bait to secure your lecture pass. Just announce your research with Rhaimund as a joint research project. If you have Rozemyne trial-build what Rhaimund designed, that will fulfill the requirements for joint research."
Rhaimund, who had little Magic Power, apparently took a long time to build what he designed. If I took on this trial-build portion, it was said I could also research various things for the library's Magical Tools.
Hirschur also added, "Since you'll be conducting the joint research in my laboratory, you'll need the dormitory supervisor's approval for anything related to the joint research. Say that and call her over at an appropriate time. I'll supervise the grading for you."
…I never thought Professor Hirschur could be this dependable!
Through my ordonnance exchange with Hirschur, I could now see a clear path to winning passage in Frauerlam's exam. Breathing a sigh of relief, I turned my gaze to my retainers.
"The joint research between the greater duchy and Ehrenfest is already a rumor? Not just among the professors…?"
Having finished the archduke candidate course and taking the civil official exams individually, I wasn't very well-informed about the Academy's gossip.
"That's right. I didn't think the dormitory supervisors would spread it so actively, but quite a few people know about it, and it already feels like it's completely decided,"
"If the results are announced, there's no doubt it will be evaluated as remarkable research. Professor Hirschur apparently received offers from several duchies wanting to participate in the joint research with Dunklefelger."
However, since it was obvious they were just trying to ride the coattails of connections with a greater duchy and the royal family, they were being rejected because they couldn't provide research samples.
…I hadn't realized it because she'd been so inactive until now, but Professor Hirschur is genuinely capable.
"Quite a few duchies also seem interested in the research with Drewanchel through Professor Gundolf. But since Professor Gundolf apparently cuts anyone who doesn't meet a certain level of research results or ability without hesitation, I'm not too worried about that."
"Rather, I'm concerned about whether Ignaz and Marianne can meet Professor Gundolf's required level. His eagerness to pull Lady Rozemyne into it at any cost is as clear as day."
From my retainers' assessment, Gundolf seemed to carry quite a dangerous scent.
…I really shouldn't get close to Professor Gundolf after all.
Gathering intelligence about the Academy's situation, I headed to Frauerlam's exam. I entered Frauerlam's laboratory in the civil officials' specialized building.
…Wow! It's impeccably organized. Truly worthy of someone who lectures on information gathering and document management.
I'd assumed laboratories were the kind where documents piled up and materials and tools overflowed, like Hirschur's or Gundolf's, but apparently not all of them were like that. A sigh of admiration escaped me at the neatly arranged room.
A laboratory with strict personal rules that allowed not the slightest overflow felt very much like something Frauerlam would have.
"Now then, there's something I'd like to ask Lady Rozemyne right away."
"What is it?"
"There are rumors circulating that Dunklefelger and Drewanchel will be conducting joint research with Ehrenfest. Is this true?"
Just as Hirschur had said, this seemed to be the thing she was most curious about. I gave a relaxed smile.
"We're considering it, but it's a matter of obtaining the Aub's approval for both, so I can't say it's confirmed. Since both dormitory supervisors are quite eager, it does feel like it's only a matter of time."
When I added that what I really wanted was to take the exam, Frauerlam's eyes shot upward with a "Nngh!"
"Shouldn't Lady Rozemyne think a bit more carefully about your relationship with Ahrensbach? The marriage between your Master and Lady Dietlinde is supposed to deepen the ties between Ahrensbach and Ehrenfest, isn't it? To then neglect Ahrensbach is simply absurd."
"I would very much like to think carefully about my relationship with Ahrensbach as well, but unless I receive a blessing from the Glücksritter, Ferdinand won't accept Ordnshenëri. What a predicament."
I brushed it off lightly, saying I couldn't discuss anything if I didn't pass the lectures, and Frauerlam showed a momentary look of irritation before presenting the exam questions.
Since there were no twisted questions like last year, I wrote out my answers smoothly and submitted them.
"Then, I'll call Professor Hirschur."
"Huh?"
Frauerlam's eyes went wide as if she didn't understand, and I deliberately widened my own eyes in return, pressing a hand to my cheek.
"Huh? This finishes my civil official apprentice lectures, and then we'll be discussing the joint research with Ahrensbach, won't we? Did I make some mistake?"
"N-No. You're correct that we'll be discussing the joint research with Ahrensbach. But what's this about calling Hirschur?"
She apparently hadn't expected me to agree to discuss the joint research so readily, and Frauerlam's eyes were spinning. This professor really was bad at anything that deviated from her expectations.
"Professor Hirschur is Ehrenfest's dormitory supervisor, so I need her present for a discussion like this. Otherwise, reporting to the Aub would be difficult."
Without mentioning that she hadn't been present for any of the previous joint research discussions, I smiled sweetly and immediately sent an ordonnance.
"Professor Hirschur, I'd like to discuss joint research with Ahrensbach with Professor Frauerlam. Do you have time?"
"Plenty."
As if she'd been waiting, Hirschur arrived right after the ordonnance reply. Seeing me and Frauerlam, she let out a light breath.
"Good day, Frauerlam. Incidentally, if you're able to discuss joint research with Ahrensbach, does that mean you've completed all your lectures, Lady Rozemyne? You said you wouldn't be allowed in the laboratory until you'd finished them."
"Today's lecture with Professor Frauerlam is the last one. Ah, the grading hasn't been done yet. The lecture isn't over until the grading is finished. Might I ask you to grade it?"
With Hirschur present, I requested Frauerlam to do the grading. Under a third party's watch, there'd be no way to fudge it. Frauerlam made a displeased face at Hirschur, then began grading at her desk.
Hirschur watched for any irregularities, and her expression turned to one of exasperation.
"Frauerlam, you…"
"Oh my, how dreadful. It seems I've made a mistake with the exam questions. Oh my my…"
"…Lady Rozemyne appears to have answered them correctly, so there doesn't seem to be much of an issue."
"Nngh! What did you say?!"
Frauerlam's eyes shot up as she peered at the exam papers.
"Is something wrong?"
"…The exam content was for fifth-year students. Lady Rozemyne, how are you able to answer these?"
"When you ask how, I had all the lecture material up through graduation drilled into me by Ferdinand. So I can answer questions from any year."
Because everything through graduation had been crammed into me at once, I honestly couldn't tell which portions belonged to the third-year curriculum. I'd simply answered because the exam questions were standard.
"Professor Ferdinand really does push things too far… It's astonishing that Lady Rozemyne can keep up."
Hirschur pressed her forehead as she said this, while behind her, Frauerlam kept repeating "This is absurd." I didn't think I was the absurd one—I thought the ones who were absurd were Frauerlam, for giving exams from other years, and Ferdinand, for drilling lecture content deep enough to match.
"Is passing the lecture sufficient? Or would you like me to retake the third-year exam?"
"Frauerlam, weren't we going to discuss the joint research? Will you be redoing the exam?"
When Hirschur and I asked in succession, Frauerlam turned beet red and shrieked hysterically, "The exam is quite finished!" Then, to take her seat at the discussion table, she sat down in her chair with a rather rough motion. The way she sat probably only hurt her own backside, but her anger and bad mood were palpable.
…But I deliberately chose not to read the room.
Ignoring Frauerlam's foul mood, the two of us—Hirschur and I, masters at not reading the room—pressed forward with the discussion on joint research.
"Since Rhaimund is in Professor Hirschur's laboratory, I don't think the joint research with Ahrensbach would be that difficult."
"Rhaimund?"
"Yes. Rhaimund is Ferdinand's apprentice and should now be serving as an attendant. If he and I conduct Magical Tool research together and present it, that constitutes joint research."
At my words, Frauerlam let out a "Nngh!"
"That would just become Hirschur's research! You can't call that joint research with Ahrensbach!"
"No. It was originally Rhaimund's leading research, so when presented at the Interduchy Tournament, it would be under Ahrensbach. However, Professor Hirschur is the teacher of both Ferdinand and Rhaimund, and I am Ferdinand's student, so the most suitable place to conduct the research would be Professor Hirschur's laboratory."
As I said this, I gave Frauerlam a sweet smile.
"However, the problem is that when Professor Hirschur and Rhaimund become absorbed in their research, there's a very high likelihood they'll neglect reporting to Ahrensbach. Professor Frauerlam, you know how Professor Hirschur gets when she's absorbed in research, don't you?"
"Yes, that's quite right. When Hirschur gets absorbed in research, I wouldn't count on accurate reports coming through."
Whether Frauerlam had dealt with an absorbed Hirschur before, she scrunched up her face and shook her head. Hirschur was smiling with a perfectly innocent expression.
"That's why, if we're going to conduct joint research, I would like the Goddess of Communication, Ordnshenëri, to stand between Ferdinand, who is in Ahrensbach, and me."
By maintaining the appearance of consulting with her Master through the joint research with Ahrensbach, it would become easier to communicate with Ferdinand. Furthermore, by having Frauerlam act as a liaison—saving face for her and all—I could add another communication channel to Ferdinand through Ahrensbach. There would naturally be surveillance and censorship, and only carefully considered information could be sent, but having an extra channel beyond Rhaimund made a difference.
"In order to make this joint research between Ahrensbach and Ehrenfest—which deepens the relationship between my Master and the duchy—a success, would you, Professor Frauerlam, who serves as Ahrensbach's dormitory supervisor, become our Ordnshenëri?"
Being able to censor all reports and serve as a key figure in deepening ties between duchies apparently appealed to her. Frauerlam's lips curled upward in a grin at my invitation.
"Very well. As my duty as dormitory supervisor, I shall handle the reporting. However, Lady Rozemyne—if you continue your absurd behavior, it will damage the relationship between Ahrensbach and Ehrenfest and cause trouble for Ferdinand. You must be more careful."
Hirschur rose, saying "It seems we've come to a good arrangement," and gestured for me to leave. Just as I was about to exit with her, Frauerlam called out to me.
"Lady Rozemyne, how has your health been lately? Have there been any changes?"
At the sudden question, I tilted my head, and Frauerlam put on an expression of worry that looked rather put-on.
"Lady Rozemyne is extremely frail, so I was simply a bit concerned about whether you could manage joint research and socializing."
"…There have been some changes. In, well, not the best direction…"
I wasn't even sure what she was checking for. I gave a vague smile. I certainly wasn't lying—I'd unleashed a blessing attack through music, glowed during the dedication dance, and was definitely changing in a bad direction.
"Is that so."
Frauerlam's eyes glinted dimly behind her faint smile. It didn't feel like a good thing at all.
The joint research was expanding in various directions.
Both joint research projects had enthusiastic dormitory supervisors.
And so, the civil official course came to an end.
Next, I would head to Professor Hirschur's laboratory.