"Young Miss, after purchasing the confectionaries, what will you do next?" asked Jennifer, sitting opposite Cynthia in the carriage.
"We will visit the Liangwei Chamber of Commerce. I need to restock my supplies because I plan to stay in my lab researching until the Foundation Day celebration. I also want to check what will be auctioned today who knows, I might find something really good," Cynthia responded.
"Young Miss, if I may be so bold, what exactly have you been researching?" Jennifer asked cautiously, not wanting to anger her.
At this question, Cynthia's golden irises flared violently, and the atmosphere in the carriage grew heavy. After a tense moment, Cynthia calmed down, her eyes transitioning from agitated to serene, and her demeanor softened.
"No worries, Jennifer," Cynthia replied. "I will shed some light on the matter. As we know, the world is vast, and most of the population lacks one of the three mystic cores that can grant them power. Because of this, only a select few have access to real power."
"However, those who do gain access to this power are called mystics, and as we know, they are divided into three categories," Cynthia continued, looking at Jennifer. "First, we have Martial Mystics who temper their bodies and make them strong using aura, or ki as it is called in the Hitoriyama and Zhou Dynasties. Then there are Elemental Maguses who use mana to enrich themselves with their innate element. Finally, we have Psy Mystics otherwise known as warlocks who must go to Lumenoth to be given a wand to begin wielding their power, hoping for the chance to unlock the trait to become even more engulfed in their art."
"The most prevalent class genes is that of the Martial Mystics," Cynthia said suggestively.
Jennifer nodded in confirmation. "That is correct, young miss."
"Indeed, they outnumber the population of Magus three to one, and the population of Warlocks five to one," Cynthia continued. "After the Martial Mystics, we have the Magus Mystics, who, while being outnumbered by the Martial Mystics, outnumber the Psy Mystics two to one. And then you have the rarest of them all: the Psy Mystics, or Warlocks, who, despite being the smallest gene pool, hold great importance and merit."
Jennifer nodded again in agreement.
"Well, I have a hypothesis that I have been working on for the past four years," Cynthia said with all seriousness. "Though my pace is slow, my progress is steady, which is promising given the nature of what I aim to achieve."
She paused, glancing out the window and noting they were nearing the confectionery store. She then resumed speaking, "I intend to create a humanoid golem based on Martial Mystics, and if possible though it seems improbable at this moment Magus Mystics."
Jennifer sat wide-eyed, unable to speak contemplating what she had just heard her young miss say. Just as she was about to respond, the carriage came to a stop. Composing herself, Jennifer opened the door for Cynthia to exit the carriage.
Upon exiting the carriage, the scent of delicious pastries and confectionaries wafted through the air as Cynthia made her way inside a two-story building marked by a sign that read "Haven Delight." The lower half of the building was constructed from warm, honey-colored stone, while the upper half featured exposed wooden beams, white plaster, and a steeply pitched, thatched roof with dormer windows.
As Cynthia and Jennifer stepped through the doors of Haven Delight, they were immediately enveloped in a world of sweetness and charm. The polished hardwood floors beneath their feet featured intricate inlaid patterns that mimicked swirling caramel and chocolate, guiding them toward the heart of the store. The walls were painted in warm, inviting shades of cream and pastel, with sections of exposed wooden beams adding a rustic touch. Decorative sconces shaped like wrapped candies provided a soft, ambient light that bathed the entire space in a golden glow.
Large glass display cases lined the walls of the main sales floor, showcasing an array of confections. The counters, made of dark, polished wood with brass accents, gleamed under the lights, and the glass was spotless, revealing rows upon rows of delectable treats inside. Wooden shelves were stocked with jars of colorful candies, bags of handmade chocolates, and assorted pastries, each labeled with detailed carvings indicating their names and prices.
To her left, Cynthia noticed a cozy seating nook near a large, stone fireplace. Plush armchairs upholstered in rich, jewel-toned fabrics were arranged around small, round tables with intricate mosaic tops featuring candy-themed designs. The nook was decorated with framed pictures of famous confections, whimsical candy-themed artwork, and small potted plants that added a touch of greenery. Above the fireplace, a large, ornate mirror reflected the warm light from a wrought-iron chandelier adorned with glass pendants shaped like candies.
As Cynthia continued to explore, the irresistible aroma of chocolate, caramel, and freshly baked pastries filled the air, whetting her appetite. Soft classical music played in the background, creating a serene and elegant atmosphere. Friendly, knowledgeable staff members moved around the store, offering samples and helping customers choose their treats. They wore uniforms of crisp white shirts and aprons embroidered with the "Haven Delight" logo, adding to the store's polished and professional appearance.
To the far left, Cynthia noticed a staircase with a sign hanging from the rails that read "Upstairs Seating Area." After taking in the sight, the pair made their way to the sales counter, where a chalkboard listed the day's specials and any upcoming events.
"One dragon peach jam, and a star gleam strawberry cake as well as a box of Chocolate and Glazed Donuts, please," Cynthia ordered from the service attendant, who informed her that the wait would be around fifteen minutes. After thanking the attendant, Cynthia headed upstairs to find a seat while waiting for her order. The upstairs area of Haven Delight is designed to be an inviting and cozy retreat for customers looking to enjoy their confections in a relaxed setting. As Cynthia and Jennifer ascended the staircase, they were greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The stairs opened into a spacious room with large windows that let in plenty of natural light, offering a panoramic view of the bustling street below. The walls were painted in soft pastel shades, complementing the downstairs decor and creating a seamless transition between the two floors. The centerpiece of the upstairs area was a grand chandelier, with glass pendants shaped like candies, hanging from the ceiling. The lighting was soft and warm, creating an intimate ambiance perfect for savoring sweet treats.
The seating is a mix of plush armchairs and comfortable sofas upholstered in rich, jewel-toned fabrics, arranged around low, round tables with intricate mosaic tops featuring candy-themed designs. In the corners, larger tables for groups are adorned with fresh flowers and small potted plants that add a touch of greenery to the space. Along one wall, a bookshelf filled with cookbooks, confectionery guides, and novels invites customers to relax with a good read. Next to it, a small self-service coffee and tea station offers a selection of hot beverages to complement the sweet offerings.
The upstairs area also features a few private alcoves, each separated by decorative wooden screens with candy motifs. These alcoves provide a more secluded space for customers who prefer a quieter, more private dining experience.
Artistic candy-themed murals adorn the walls, depicting whimsical scenes of candy forests and chocolate rivers, adding a playful touch to the sophisticated decor. Framed paintings of the store's history and the confectionery-making process hang between the murals, offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind the sweets.
The overall layout is designed to encourage a leisurely, enjoyable experience, inviting customers to stay, relax, and indulge in the delights of Haven Delight.
As Cynthia made her way to one of the two-seater tables to wait for her order, she heard a female voice call out from two tables over. Turning towards the voice, Cynthia smiled and approached the person, saying, "Wonderful to meet you again, young lady Cunningham. How have you been?"
The lady gestured for Cynthia to sit with her, and Cynthia accepted the invitation. Jennifer then stood to Cynthia's right, scanning the surroundings.
"Young lady Rochester, I thought we were closer. Why are you still referring to me as young lady Cunningham?" the young noble asked with a slightly sad tone.
"My apologies, young lady Cunningham. How would you prefer I address you?" Cynthia inquired.
"I would like us to call each other by our first names if you don't mind," the noble replied, perking up at Cynthia's question.
Cynthia considered the request for a moment and then agreed. The young lady excitedly thanked Cynthia for allowing it.
"Not a problem, Alice. But why are you here today? I thought you were out of the country, trying to establish your family's business in the Zhou Dynasty," Cynthia asked as Alice sipped her tea.
"Well, Cynthia, that was the plan until I heard that my best friend, Viola Harley, got engaged to Kenneth Fairchild. I had to come back and find out what led to such a dreadful situation," Alice replied, her tone revealing her annoyance. "And then, to make matters worse, those fools attacked the imperial procession for the Empress Mother's funeral yesterday."
Cynthia then asked Jennifer to brew her some tea at the self-service station. Jennifer bowed and excused herself. Cynthia continued, "So, it's true then that Baron Fairchild used his position as chief of the regional alchemist branch to pull strings and finally get a family to accept his second-born son, who is, to put it mildly, a philanderer whose conquests are as numerous as the stars."
Alice nodded in agreement.
"It is surprising that Baron Harley would allow such a thing to happen. There must be a better explanation for this, because if not, it could be the worst mistake for Viola's life. We all know he would make her life difficult with his lifestyle. Her children would likely have to deal with half-siblings they've never met, and there's also the risk of him carrying unknown diseases that could affect Viola," Alice said through gritted teeth.
After hearing Alice, Cynthia suggested, "Why don't you ask your fiancé to see if his father can draft Kenneth into the military? I know Baron Fairchild wouldn't object, given his vanity. He would love the idea of his son potentially gaining status, which he could benefit from. However, knowing Kenneth's personality, after gaining the status he would likely disregard his father's wishes and let Viola go to continue his lifestyle." Cynthia took the cup of tea from Jennifer as she spoke.
Upon hearing Cynthia's suggestion, Alice's eyes lit up with joy, and she thanked Cynthia for the idea. She then calmed down and asked, "But enough about me. How are things with you recently?"
After setting her glass on the saucer, Cynthia replied, "Well, I am excited about my trip to Lumenoth."
"Ah, Lumenoth," Alice sighed. "I've always wanted to visit that great city, but because of their strict immigration laws, I can't go there."
Cynthia then asked, "What is the procedure like to go to Lumenoth?"
Alice placed her hand on her chin, thought for a moment, and then began speaking. "The procedure is the same for everyone who is not a Psy Mystic. They have to be given visitation permits issued by the Draethon consulate which thankfully they paced one in every country so you can apply for it wherever you can. After receiving the permit, you will be able to use the teleportation gate to reach the city, as you know, that is the only way to get there because it is a floating city."
"Yes, that does make sense," Cynthia said as she picked up her cup and sipped her tea. After placing her cup back on the saucer, she continued, "Lumenoth is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, with buildings that seem to defy gravity. The city is powered entirely by Draethon's Mana, making it a marvel of Psy Mystic technology. It also boasts advanced technology and techniques, with its golems and Morpholis methods allowing the city to literally breathe and change its surface area according to the Draethon Council's wishes. So, it's no surprise they don't want non-Psy Mystics near them so easily."
Alice nodded in agreement and then said with determination in her eyes, "I will eventually make it to Lumenoth, even if it's just once. I must see that city with my own eyes one day, with the ultimate goal of opening a branch of haven delight in the city as well one day."
Cynthia smiled at Alice's declaration. Not long after, a service attendant approached Cynthia, handed her order to Jennifer, and thanked Cynthia with a small bow before departing.
After receiving the goods, Cynthia stood up and excused herself, wishing Alice a good day and hoping for prosperity for her family business and Viola's future. Alice waved and thanked Cynthia for joining her and speaking with her.
When she exited the store, Cynthia and Jennifer walked to the carriage stationed a few meters from the front door. Upon arrival, the coachman took the goods and placed them in the trunk while Jennifer opened the door for Cynthia. After entering, Cynthia directed the coachman to the Liangwei Chamber of Commerce. With his orders received, the carriage set off towards the commerce chambers.