Bab 36: Post-Party Conversation (1)
The night had grown late, and the guests were beginning to leave the main hall. The space, once filled with laughter and music, was now quiet, only a few servants bustling around to clear the tables. However, for Eldric, the birthday celebration was far from over.
He stood on the outdoor terrace, accompanied by the cool night air and the distant sound of crickets. In front of him, two familiar figures were waiting—Princess Elena with her signature bright smile, and Leonel, the son of the Duke Warwickdom family, known for his calm yet charismatic presence. Eldric made an effort to maintain a neutral expression, though he was feeling a little tired.
"Thank you for your time, Lord Eldric," Elena began the conversation. Her elegant dress shimmered under the moonlight, but her gaze showed she had something important to say.
Leonel nodded politely, adding, "We understand this has been a busy day for you, and we appreciate your willingness to take the time."
Eldric smiled faintly, hiding his desire for rest. "Of course, Princess Elena, Lord Leonel. How can I assist you both?"
Elena stepped closer, her smile turning slightly more serious. "Actually, I wanted to talk about The Carval Collective. The dress Liora wore tonight truly captivated everyone, including myself. I'm sure this collection is going to be something huge. So I wanted to ask directly—are there plans to expand these designs to other kingdoms? Or will this collection remain exclusive to the nobles of Wisegard?"
Eldric nodded, understanding the intent of her question. "We did design this collection to be something exclusive. However, it's not out of the question that, in the near future, we will open up opportunities to sell it outside the region, though of course, in limited quantities. The designs are meant to reflect uniqueness and high artistic value, so we want to maintain that sense of exclusivity."
Elena seemed satisfied with this explanation, but before she could speak further, Leonel spoke up. "Lord Eldric, I also have a question, but it's not about the dresses. Tonight, I've heard many people praising the manga works you've created, especially Naruto. I've read several volumes myself, and I think the story of perseverance and friendship in it is very relevant, even for someone like me, from a Duke's family."
Eldric was slightly surprised but remained calm. "I'm glad to hear that, Lord Leonel. What would you like to discuss about the manga?"
Leonel looked at him seriously. "I want to know how you view art like manga in the context of our society. Do you see it purely as entertainment, or do you have a larger vision of spreading the values within it?"
The question made Eldric pause for a moment before answering. "Manga certainly started as a form of entertainment, but I believe art has the power to influence and inspire. In Naruto, for example, I wanted to convey that perseverance and self-belief can overcome any obstacle. I hope these stories can reach more people, connect different social classes, and perhaps help them see life from a new perspective."
Leonel gave a faint smile, as though Eldric's answer met his expectations. "An excellent thought, Lord Eldric. I believe your works have the potential to be more than just entertainment. If there is any way I can help spread your works, especially to the regions of my family, you only need to let me know."
Eldric was slightly taken aback by this offer but nodded politely. "I appreciate your good intentions, Lord Leonel. I will consider it seriously."
Elena rejoined the conversation with a soft smile. "Lord Eldric, you know I've always admired how you create something so meaningful. I hope we can talk more about the possibility of future collaborations, both for clothing and other forms of art."
Eldric maintained his professional demeanor. "Of course, Princess Elena, Lord Leonel. I truly appreciate your interest and support for what we are doing. I'll be sure to think about all of this carefully."
Status Power Mingguan
-- Peringkat
Power 
-- Power
stone