Handmade Charm

Their talk came to an end just before dinner.

We did surely talk for a long time, didnt we? We appreciate your time. You really helped. Ill repay you later. said Mia.

Citrina smiled back with her sweet smile.

Please, Your Highness, dont worry about it. Im just happy that the student council is taking me out to look for mushrooms. Its a big deal for Rina.

The student council at Saint-Noel Academy was much more than just a school club. It had a lot of power and influence, which was made even stronger by the fact that its members were all very important people.

For the average noble, just getting to know the Prince of Sunkland or the Holy Lady of Belluga would be cause for a party. So, even though Citrina offered to help Mia, she didnt ask for anything in return, because thats how people should act. It seemed natural to do

Well, by that logic, Bel should be in the same position, and you dont see her being so humble! Besides, youre with us as our official mushroom safety expert, so you should get something for your work, Mia said.

A princess with a golden heart? If what people say is true

Citrina gave another smile that was full of life.

Thank you a lot, Your Majesty.

Right then, Bel spoke up.

Miss Mia, you didnt bring anything to say thank you? That was pretty careless of you, she said with a giggle, tilting her head back in a smug way. Then its a good thing I brought one.

Citrina wasnt ready for this. She didnt know what to say at first.

Bel looked at her for a second, then held out her hands with pride.

Here you go, Rina. I made this for you.

A small fluffy thing was in them.

It turned out to be a stuffed animal when she looked at it more closely. It might have been a horse, but it was hard to be sure.

Um, Bel? Whatis it?

Bel grinned.

Thats a toy horse! I got Malong to teach me in secret, and I did it myself. Its made of horse hair, and people in the Equestrian Kingdom think of it as a lucky charm.

A troya She is correct. This is a classic charm from the Equestrian Kingdom.

Citrina was aware of them. One had been shown to her before by an Equestri. They were made by carefully weaving strands of hair into the shape that was wanted.

Due to her lack of experience, Bels attempt didnt look much like a horse. It could have been a dog just as well, and that was being kind.

Honestly, it looked a little bit scary, like a weird creature from a bad dream. It was not a gift that anyone would be happy to get. But it was still a gift, and the unexpected way in which it was given made Citrina feel a little something.

Thank you, Bel. Thank you so much, this is a great gift, she said with her usual head tilt and curled lip.

It was a sweet, perfect smile that wasnt too emotional or too stiff. It was as beautiful as a flower in bloom, and everyone who saw it fell in love with it.

Hehe, Im glad you like it, Rina. Thank you for helping me study today.

Bel smiled, looking pure and warm. Citrina smiled back and tightened her face just enough to match her friends enthusiasm.

After saying goodbye to them, Citrina looked at the charm she was holding. She looked at it for a while, then with a dismissive flick of her wrist, she threw it into the corner of the room.

Barbara walked over and picked it up from the ground without saying anything.

So? What do you think, Barbara? Was that enough to get your attention? Citrina asked.

The old worker nodded in response, but her face didnt change at all.

Yes, milady. I do think youve persuaded them not to go deep into the forest.

Good. So, they shouldnt be able to see anything they shouldnt.

Citrina had a soft laugh. She was like a pretty little flower swaying in the wind. Then, her voice changed and took on a bit of worry.

Tell me, Barbara. Will Rinas father now praise her? Will he tell Rina how nice I am?

Yes, I have no doubt he will. Milord has a lot of respect for milady. As long as the plan works, he will praise you a lot.

Will he or wont he? Yes Ill carry out this plan. It will work out. When it does, Rinas father will tell her how proud he is of her. Oh, I can hardly wait.

Citrina laughed as she spun around her room in a circle.

Barbara stood and watched the dance in silence until she had an idea.

By the way, milady

She showed the troya that Bel brought.

What are you suggesting I do with this? Should I get rid of it?

What do you mean, throw it out? Hmm

Citrina tilted her head in a cute way.

That seems like a waste.

A waste, milady?

She kept smiling at the person who was helping her.

I dont believe in lucky charms, but this will help me get to know Her Highness through Bel. Hold on to it for now.

As you wish.

After looking at Citrina for a long time, Barbara walked over to the desk and put the charm in a drawer.