Chapter_42

Translator: Yonnee

“There’s something mixed into the silk thread. The proportion of silk in this fabric is less than half. But the quality surpasses that of high-purity silk.”

This was not knowledge that Cecilia had uncovered herself.

When this fabric became explosively popular in the future, competitors—especially those with vested interests—conducted countless studies to uncover its secrets.

Yet, none could even discover where the silk yarn for the fabric was produced. All they managed to learn was that silk made up roughly half of the fabric’s composition.

This time, Dustin couldn’t conceal his surprise.

“Well, how do you know that? Have you studied fabric before?”

“I don’t possess any special knowledge. I simply feel the quality of the fabric when I touch it.”

“A remarkable skill, indeed. You’d notice a single pea under your mattress, I bet.”

Cecilia scoffed, replying,

“Isn’t that only natural?”

Dustin burst into laughter.

 

❖ ❖ ❖

 

Russell, who had been reviewing the estimates handed to him by the merchants, suddenly realized he had left Cecilia on her own, each occupied with their own matters.

He looked around but didn’t see her immediately. However, it wasn’t long before he spotted her—perhaps due to that striking golden hair.

Amidst the bustling crowd, she was unmistakably visible.

He saw her speaking with a merchant who was moving rolls of fabric, the young man’s face flushed as red as if it had been painted. Those passing by tried not to stare, but every one of them snuck glances at her.

Russell frowned slightly. He wasn’t sure why, but he found the scene unpleasant.

Then, he noticed Dustin approaching her, which made him furrow his brow further.

Personally, Russell respected Dustin as a worthy elder. The caravan leader of a major guild had taken the trouble to come all the way to Lagos Castle and had shown him many favors. The Ewen Guild was a valuable trading partner, and they had important ventures together.

However, as lord of the castle, Russell was always somewhat wary of Dustin’s goodwill.

After all, Dustin was a merchant. Merchants never do anything without profit in mind.

And Dustin was eccentric—a challenging figure to deal with, even for seasoned individuals.

Concerned for Cecilia, Russell began to walk toward her.

As he got close enough to overhear their conversation, he saw Dustin opening a wooden box to show Cecilia a piece of fabric.

Their ensuing conversation piqued his interest, so he stopped a few paces away and listened.

Cecilia asked Dustin,

“Could I receive this fabric today?”

“I’m afraid that won’t be possible, as this is just a sample. Everything in this box is all we have, and it’s hardly enough for any practical use.”

The fabric in the box was no larger than twice the size of a handkerchief.

‘What a shame. It would be perfect for undergarments.’

This fabric wouldn’t appear on the market until five or six years later. Cecilia promptly gave up the thought.

“It’s a truly fine fabric.”

“In fact, it’s one of our guild’s proud innovations. I’m delighted to hear such high praise from you.”

“In that case, I’ll take all rolls of both these fabrics that you have here.”

The fabrics Cecilia chose were items Peter had displayed that were already pre-contracted. Peter, realizing his error, looked mortified.

Dustin was about to agree, having already made one faux pas by presenting a sample without the intention to sell.

To refuse to sell items already displayed would damage his credibility. He had no choice but to cover his subordinate’s mistake.

But Peter was too quick to act, bowing deeply to Cecilia.

“My apologies. These items are not for sale. I mistakenly brought out the wrong ones.”

Cecilia turned to Dustin and asked,

“What does he mean?”

“Well… these items are pre-contracted. However, as you’ve already seen them, I’ll make them available for sale.”

“These two fabrics are contracted?”

“In fact, they are all contracted.”

Silk, especially pure white silk, was a limited-production item. Cecilia knew that, as she always had her undergarments made from silk, she had to order fabric at least a month in advance.

‘No wonder. I was surprised to find something like this for sale here.’

Though not quite the highest quality she was used to, she had intended to make do.

During her early days at Lagos Castle in her previous life, she had faced discomfort due to a lack of undergarments.

The supply she initially brought with her wasn’t enough, as undergarments required frequent replacements.

Her particular tastes only made matters worse—undergarments had to be silk. She couldn’t tolerate the roughness of cotton against her skin.

 

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