Miss Appraiser And Satan's Gallery
Chapter One: The Black Iron Star

Time passed — it was her seventeenth birthday.

And Riz faced an unexpected situation.

It all started a week before her birthday.

She was urged by her mother, Virma, with “This is five paintings. Now, choose a painting you like from this! " and, when he did just that, for some reason his fiancee was decided.

Nothing makes sense.

The five sections are about half the size of the Book of Hours.

From their three-color printing point, he knew that they were made with the latest printing techniques.

The paintings were all fused under the fruits: there were pears, limes, grapes, apricots, and apples.

Why is it related to choosing a fiancee !? Riz was confused inside.

The painting he chose was lime.

Back then he just thought that he was being made to decide what kind of roasted sweets to give to his relatives on his birthday. He's too naive. He should not underestimate Virma's ability to guess and act.

On the occasion when he was ordered to return to the capital's house, he thought that something was going on.

Lying if she said the word marriage never crossed her mind.

However, it was a topic he wanted to avoid.

Seeing Riz's own lack of motivation to get married, Virma must have taken the trouble to prepare the paintings.

When Riz got involved with the painting, he lost all discrimination. Oil painting, watercolor painting, wall painting, however he likes all the paintings.

If a picture book was opened, his expression would become mesmerized. If he saw the frescoes, he could easily sit there for an hour.

Because naturally his body is not strong, Riz had recuperated in a cool climate, living with his grandparents, until last year.

Even now it is still difficult to say he has a healthy body.

That is why, before his youth is gone, a family worthy of his marriage must be found — he can understand Virma's impatience.

The first thing a high-ranking man wants in his partner is whether they have a healthy body or not. There is an obligation to leave the offspring for the sake of the continuity of the house.

At that point, the majority of the nobility would dethrone Riz from being a bride-to-be. Even if she was the daughter of an earl who received the help of the current king.

In this case, the target is the second son, the businessman or the court knight.

That is, someone with something to be proud of, wealth, and the promise of the future. Or someone with a solid connection at home and abroad.

If a person does not want to be greedy, and narrow it down to one of them, then they can be attracted to the name of the house of those who announce themselves.

“—Sir Emil is the second son of the Carotion family, and he has been appointed as the commander of the third military squadron unit of the Holy Lion Knight Order. Even the Holy Knights of the Royal Academy of Gricos in this royal capital were being instructed by bodyguards acting as temporary officers. "

Virma's friendly voice resounded in the garden that smelled of autumn flowers.

This pride park was created with Virma herself sharing instructions with the workers.

He carefully selected plants for the tree and even specialized about the color of its flowers. There were beautifully trimmed green carpets, flower beds lined up, and round topials arranged. Passing through an ornamental pointed brick arch erected in the middle, a long dinner party table was placed there.

Right now, Riz was sitting there with everyone. He is the main actor, more or less, on this anniversary.

“Yes, Carotion was given recognition for their outstanding service in the barbaric invasion that took place two hundred years ago. They were the first to receive the honor of being called knighthood— “

The Virma talks continue.

Her birthday party so far, other than Virma and her sister, only invited relatives she knew.

If the number of invitations increased, the greeting alone would burden his body.

However, a slight change was seen in the members this time around.

In exchange for her absent father, her “marriage candidates” participated.

“Of course, Sir Emil, you are personally an outstanding knight as well. You see the shadow of an assassin creeping in the second princess and brilliantly capture— “

While listening to Virma's voice, Riz peeked at the young man's face past the candy parcel on the long table served after the main course.

The age of the "marriage candidate" - he is in his late twenties. She has neat short hair with chestnut color and bright blue eyes.

And pretty shady— uh, what he meant was a refreshing smile. Just by being a Knight Order, he had a firm figure, even when he was slim. Her aristocratic, indigo-blue clothes, with soft decorations, were made of a very nice fabric when viewed up close. The pins and buttons of the cuff are also inconspicuous, but complicated.

As expected of his mother; a good man was chosen as a candidate.

But he couldn't understand.

As he was unfamiliar with the state of the aristocracy, unfortunately he was unable to judge the true position of the Careotion family. However, at the very least, Virma's introduction should not be a lie.

A commander at this young age. Obtain profitable services to establish himself in life. A handsome man. Her clothing taste is good too.

Isn't this property too good?

Even if he was the second son, why would this young handsome knight, with seemingly good traits and personality and a promising future, appear in front of him? He should have had a lot of admirers.

Putting aside her health problems, Riz is beautiful if she is silent.

Long silver hair and pale skin like brushed snow. The wet eyes that were praised as black gems and the color of the eyelashes bordering it were faint, like vibrating feathers.

Even the Riz family who used to see it was held back by the beauty.

However, her nature is an introverted and undisciplined young woman who does not want to move a single step except for painting.

Basically, his expression was dead. The shade is heaven and the sun is hell. Her uncle, Hine, who likes her the most among her family, has even stated that Riz's blood is made of red pigment.

That Riz prefers a closed life is somewhat influenced by his environment up to that point.

Plagued by the village children, who could not help themselves, because it was considered like a ghost, he was always desperate not to cry. And he tried not to let it get caught that he could see things that no one else could.

As time passed, she finally did not see the appearance of a fairy, but at that moment she could no longer smile brightly like a normal girl.

Troubled and feeling like he could not continue like this, he had practiced making facial expressions in the mirror many times, but it was a futile struggle. No matter how one looked at it, when he grinned he could only see himself as a smiling and sinister magician.

Since then, his serious and dull expression has continued.

“—Riz, come on now, don't be shy and keep looking down.”

Riz's consciousness returns to reality upon Virma's call.

“Force us, Sir Emil. This child, if I may say as his mother, is a very simple and humble child. "

His mother showed a gentle smile, but the gaze he threw here was sharp like a raptor. “Don't daydream and immediately show this man the charm of your whole life!” That's how those eyes threatened Riz.

Mother, please do not ask the impossible.

This guy is too charming. His smile was even darker than his mother's.

“Yes, Mrs Virma, just for being able to meet the rumored Virgin Star, Miss Riz, makes me lucky. She actually had enough beauty to stop the breath and was very similar to Madam, no. "

"Gosh my god."

Virma's cheeks darkened like a young girl because of the flattery Emil had said. Although, inwardly, he seemed to click his tongue and said "Praise me more, son!".

Riz turned to Virma with a warm look.

“Even the brilliance of gold and silver was already looming in front of Bu Riz. Does that not make your jewelry store hold its head? "

“Sir Emil, jeez! But it is true that our tailor complained. They said that no matter what veil was placed on top of this child, it could not hide its beauty. "

“That would be the problem, right. I can understand."

Today Riz is wearing a light cream and white colored dress.

It was a new job that had just arrived at the mansion a few days ago and even the craftsmen were satisfied with the completion. His upper arm was thin, but his handcuffs were wide open. Lace is widely used around cuff, sleeves, and skirt curtains. On his neck is a necklace of jewels; one of Virma's collections. Riz was given because it was his birthday.

"If possible, Miss Riz, would you give me the honor of seeing you reflect me in your eyes?"

Riz looked back at Emil and tilted his head.

“We've looked at each other now.”

"I'd like to ask for a longer time."

Emil smiled happily.

Riz furrowed his brows. He's really shady.

For ordinary words to come out with big drops like this meant that he was very used to women, right?

Virma showed a face full of anxiety that seemed to say “I beg you, answer well!”.

I know, mother. I'll do my best.

“You ask for a longer time, but it is necessary to blink to keep the moisture in our eyes so that we cannot open it forever. I think the limit will be at most one minute, so should I assume that means you want to stare at each other for that long? According to one theory, men and women blink at different speeds and, it seems, during times of nervousness, the blinking speed increases. In addition, to prevent the entry of foreign bodies, it seems that the flickering speed is faster when closing than when opening. By the way, there are reports that say we blink about twenty times in a minute and we blink more than a hundred million times in our lives. However, isn't there a difference in this depending on a person's age— “

“RIZ !! Son, you've been filled with Dr. freakish knowledge. Commons again, no! I'm sorry, Sir Emil, the nurse doctor this eccentric girl .. No, she is very curious and loves to talk. He must have learned it when he met his doctor. "

Virma forcibly cuts.

Who's Dr. The commons? They do not have doctors who treat like that at home.

“Because Riz is a serious listener, it looks like the doctor also talks a lot! But why don't we talk about something more fun now. You understand, yeah, Riz? ”

That it was better to change the topic was something painfully conveyed from Virma's expression, which Riz felt nothing but fear despite Virma smiling.

The other relatives at the long table looked at Riz with desperate eyes. His uncle, Hine, and his two older sisters seemed to be trying hard not to laugh out loud.

He has to do something. Riz looked for another topic.

“Do you like lime?”

"Excuse me? Lime?"

Emil stared confusedly at the sudden change in topic.

“I want to know if, perhaps, Sir Emil is an amazing lime lover.”

Here his uncle, Hine, put his head on a long table.

Her sister stuck a handkerchief into their mouth and looked down.

“Or maybe you have a limestone field? Or do you have experience with lime that changes your life? ”

"Huh? No."

"Squeaky. Then I wondered why lime was drawn on my mother's painting. "

"I'm sorry? The painting?"

He stared intently at the wondering face of Emil.

The reason Riz chose lime on the five types of paintings is because he liked it a bit. If he chose another painting, would another man be chosen?

“What is it because Mr Emil's name is similar to our surname? But it has nothing to do with lime. As expected, her name is the correct answer, right, ma'am? 'Emil' read backwards is lime— “

“RIZ, Dear CHILD !! You think of something interesting! This kid loves fruit! "

Virma explained with teary eyes.

Mother, in my own way, I have tried to follow with all my feelings.

This was the first time in months he had spoken to someone like this about things other than painting.

It is a mistake to expect sparkling romantic talk by a reclusive young woman.

First of all, this man was too charming.

If his talk is about research on the durability of tempera painting or about methods of drawing with rotting food then he is sure he can stay up all night talking, but that may not be allowed at all.

“Nona Riz is a woman who enjoys a myriad of topics, right. I couldn't predict the next conversation and it was quite interesting. "

Emil said this while chuckling.

“Y-yes !! Riz is a friendly boy and loves to talk! ”

Mother, didn't you just lie earlier and say that I was a very simple and humble child? And that I am a serious listener.

“If this is true, Miss Riz, I heard you are very familiar with fine art.”

Riz leaned forward on Emil's question.

If he was okay with the topic then he would accept it.

“Do you prefer eggs or milk for tempera painting? I believe that eggs are the way to go in the end. "

"Eggs?"

“I found that deep yet lively coloring is very interesting. You can paint it and resist damage. This is not very suitable for murals, but in my opinion it is the sovereignty of color in the art world. I've even thought of running a chicken farm— “

“RIZ !!”

"Yes mother?"

“It's time for you to see Dr. The commons! You have a little fever, so don't push yourself! "

“No, today I feel very healthy—“

"YOU HAVE! FEVER!!"

"Yes mother."

“Mr Emil, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for coming today for my daughter. Yes, we will send you a thank you gift. "

Virma closed her birthday party with a smile that brook no difference of opinion. Her mother's eyes are even deader than Riz's.

At the end of Riz's gaze, he saw his younger siblings laughing while sticking a handkerchief to the mouth.

After the birthday party, everyone is convinced that the "marriage interview" with Emil failed.

Even Riz himself honestly thought so. Virma stayed in her room for three days and did not want to go out.

But after three more days.

A closed letter arrives from the Carotion family requesting an official engagement with Riz.

“So, Riz, you sulked and ran to my place?”

I'm not sulking.

Currently, Riz comes to visit the mansion where his uncle, Hine lives.

“When my older sister, Virma, tries to solve everything, you let go, right?”

"M."

Hine held out a cup of hot chocolate to Riz who was sitting on the sofa while holding her knees.

He received it with both hands and, after taking a sip, daydreamed.

Hine smiled wryly as she saw that and sat down beside her.

Hine's mansion was built three blocks from the mansion in the royal capital, Sprarugle, where the Milton family lived in the summer. A long distance even the unusual Riz out could come and go if using the carriage.

The previous owner was an old woman who did not like luxury. So, the house itself is small and even the decoration of the windows is quiet. It was a two-story building with a flat roof; more than half of the red brick walls were covered in vines.

For all that is inconspicuous, there is warmth and comfort.

“... Have the books in this room increased from before?”

The position of the objects in Hine's study changed every time she came; especially, the books were piled on the floor.

“Ah, I get rare art books in book market. Wanna meet?"

It's okay later.

Hine was an art dealer, although she was not a legitimate merchant with the approval of the Royal Fine Arts Agency. Its main customers were of course the aristocracy; they found diamonds of talent in the wild, buried in the streets, and focused their energy on cultivating and supporting them.

The Quito Ezira Empire, after a large-scale religious war ended fifty years ago, prospered in its culture and art and flourished in various fields.

Countless valuable cultural legacies were destroyed in the battle over whether the Old-Verse Bible, which included the Psalms and teachings of God, or the Bible, which emphasized the compilation of biographies of saints and Gospels, and the Bible, it is the true holy book. The Renaissance there led to the current art revolution.

In this long history, this “Sacred War” repeated many times without learning.

Scholars agree that this war took place for a reason. The one who governs it is beneath it, and it is none other than God Himself. Art exists as a mirror of religion and, if that culture degenerates, the beliefs of the people also become unclean.

They say that is why history is shaken by that hand and moves on to a new age.

Riz did not know whether the statements of the scholars were true or not, but in the royal capital, Sprarugle, even when people were on vacation during the Spring Restoration Festival, the Seven-Day Summer Festival, the, The Golden Autumn Festival, and Winter. The Cross Festival has galleries opening here and there in the streets. It is even likened to joking as an art nation that cannot sleep by other countries.

Because it was a country where both old and young admired works of art, unofficial art merchants like Hine flooded the royal capital. It was an opportunity to get rich quick for artists born together. For traders too.

Decorating with paintings, without knowing its value, is the slogan of the nouveau riche. Even those who were prestigious were well-informed in the arts. It was said that if one wanted the support of the aristocracy, they should not set aside any investment.

It's no exaggeration to say that Riz is interested in painting because of Hine.

Concerned about Riz, whose body is weak and confined to a mansion, Hine gives him an art book as a distraction. That's initially.

Nice painting. They don't lie.

In contrast to the illusion elf, the painting was clearly visible in everyone's eyes. They remain unchanged even after many years. Riz thought it was an art that celebrated immortality.

“... Riz, do you hate Sir Emil?”

Hine, who was sitting next to him, asked this while smiling and imitating Riz, pulling both of her legs onto the sofa. He scanned his face; it did not look very similar to Virma.

It was a face that looked rather sleepy and sweet. His light brown eyes turned to gold when seen in a bright place. Her hair, which was the same color as her eyes, also shone like a grain of rice.

“Is he a man you cannot accept?”

“I think he's charming. I don't really know if I hate it or like it. "

You don't want to get married?

“If it's possible.”

Riz did not consider himself to have a serious illness, but running around for a while was already making him dizzy; he would also have a fever and then lie in bed for a long time. Could a weak person like him be someone's wife and build a happy family?

He recalled hearing that many women who were married to knights cooked by themselves without relying on servants. Riz is good at playing musical instruments, but has no talent for cooking.

It hasn't sunk in that I'm getting married.

"Well .. I might not be persuasive, considering I'm single, but it's somehow going to work out better than you expected."

Hine looks amused. He wondered why his uncle had no wife, when he was popular.

“Fixed only, speed in terms of actions my brother..”.

Justjust wonderful.

Riz lowered his head.

Ever since the sealed letter arrived from the Carotion family, Virma was completely healed. She removed the mask as a graceful mistress and, as soon as she shouted, "I'll make this marriage go through ...!", He immediately prepared a reply and started contacting the jewelry store and the artist they were customers with. Therefore, the house was like an attacked chicken coop.

As for his sister, they gave a cynical comment that was stabbing in part because Emil was a nice property and a handsome man. They insisted "There must be a hidden side!".

Riz's personality and preferences are different from his sister's and he's long lived away from them. So, their relationship is still bad. She also has an older brother in the Milton family, but she is currently studying abroad in another country.

Not lasting a second longer, Riz sees the opportunity and escapes from the mansion.

It may be a bit reckless to go without permission or an officer.

I wonder if it'll work.

"That's gonna."

“If not?”

You will leave this country with me.

Divorce on the part of women is not permitted unless there are exceptional circumstances. Laws are basically made to benefit men, because politics is the realm of men.

“If that happens then you will also not be able to work in Sprarugle, uncle.”

"I don't mind. There are many beautiful paintings abroad. "

"Thank you?"

"Thank."

Realistically, she knew that it was impossible to escape but she was happy with Hine's consideration.

“Traveling to different countries is a good thing. Your sense of value can also be reversed. Instead, you may also reaffirm the goodness of your Mother Earth. "

Oh?

There was an interesting country in the north called the Ria Empire. There were many magicians there, until it was referred to as a nation where everything was an illusion. "

“Magician? What you mean is people who, just by swinging something that doesn't look like a regular stick, can make a pile of poisonous candy with an unknown expiration date, he said, ignoring the structures and mechanisms of life to turn people into cats and dogs, and who is the dangerous creature that is the equivalent of the Last Secret Weapon? "

“Y-yah, I think you're more or less right, but don't save your hopes or dreams.”

What kind of story is that?

“But, no, there is indeed such a foreign country. I'm not lying, so please stop with that scornful look. "

Perhaps because she was so suspicious, Hine waved both of her hands frantically.

“In other words, I say there are places we can live that are not this country. Do not push yourself to the last stage. "

“Mm, thank you, but you are bad at entertaining people, uncle.”

“Riz, it's good to hide half of the things that are in your heart.”

Hine was a little sad but she immediately showed a smile. Rising from the sofa, she looked at Riz.

"How's your body?"

I'm fine today.

“Then will you come with me to the art gallery? I showed off a new painting. "

"I'm going to go."

When she immediately replied, Hine elegantly extended her hand.

After putting her hot chocolate on the small table, Riz grabbed the hand and went down to the floor.

Hine has an art gallery. That said, he bought it right before Riz came to the royal capital.

Its location is in the southern part of the royal capital, the Houro — section on the border between the slums and the shopping district.

It was an assortment and bustling area but, unfortunately, could not be said to have good security. Virma had forbidden Riz from approaching the place.

Today, he first visited the art gallery.

It looks like Hine took him there, preparing to face Virma's anger. He must be concerned and wanted to give Riz, in his gloom, a change of pace.

Leaving the mansion while being pulled by Hine's hand, they climbed into one of the mansion's carriages.

After being shaken for a while, they arrived at the shopping area and were transferred to a two-wheeled carriage. This is due to the fear of being targeted by the group of thieves who make this area as their territory. Wagon belonging to the nobility and for personal use has a complicated and luxurious decoration, so it can be seen at a glance.

My art gallery was rebuilt from a separate villa.

Hine puffed out her chest and said that. Generally, art dealers who have the rest of the money like Hine and will buy a big house and exhibition work there. Since it also doubles as a place to nurture artists themselves, depending on the conditions, they would lend rooms like nobles who became patrons and also sold works.

In addition, the nobleman also opened his own house to the public for exhibition purposes.

Art requires a lot of money. The art dealers usually develop young artists recommended by the nobility. Of course, there were hidden calculations underneath. With noble patronage, there is value to an artist beyond their actual ability and the price of their painting will also be dragged down. The shadow of unlawful business deepens, the more active the art world becomes.

Illegal art dealers are basically prohibited from holding auctions, but that is only on the surface. Fearing a backlash from a prominent noble, the Royal Fine Arts Agency was in a situation where he was unable to act easily.

Look, it's right there.

When they arrived at the Houro district, Hine got down from her carriage first. He grabs Riz's hand and approaches the art gallery. It was a long horizontal shaped building, built from dark bricks. Stained glass windows all have a long, narrow half-curved shape.

Riz's steps naturally slowed down.

"What's wrong? Do you feel bad? ”

"… no."

He shook his head left and right at Hine as he looked at her face with concern.

But in his heart he was not calm.

What was that?

It was a mess. It was the expression that first appeared in his mind.

Difficult breathing. Darkened. It also smells. And he could clearly see the turbulent black fog surrounding them.

"How's that? Isn't this a pretty good building? The strange thing is, even though it is solidly made, I can buy it from the previous owner for an incredible price. "

That means it is a property with special circumstances. Riz swallowed those words.

Instead, doesn't this mean the previous owner is eager to let go? He also desperately held back those words.

His uncle was a gentle and gentle man, but for some reason he had an irritating talent for being attracted to strange things. This could also be said for the painting he bought.

He returned his gaze from the happy Hine to the art gallery.

“Excellent, isn't it?”

“This is very amazing.”

“Show small, but don't you think it has a church-like atmosphere? Like something serious. ”

"Servant, yes."

Buildings and warehouses on the slum border are often sturdy buildings like this. And they also have an appearance reminiscent of a church, similar to this art gallery.

The reason is only to scare the thieves. Even the bravest of thieves would hesitate to commit an act deemed an insult by the gods.

“Once I see it, 'I have to buy this place!', Is what I feel.”

Hine stared at the art gallery, fascinated. Riz could not answer.

Nobles love buildings that have passed the era on top of new buildings. He could understand the meaning, but.the air around them was completely stagnant.

No, stagnation gathers in this art gallery.

Riz was agitated. Would it be better for him to tell this fact to Hine? Or should he keep it in his heart?

As he grew, mysterious things disappeared from his eyes. Fairy too.

However, if this was not his imagination, within the black fog there seemed to be a walking skeleton, with a blurry line. Riz hurriedly shifted his gaze. He clearly saw something was wrong.

“I'll specially give you the painting you like as your wedding celebration.”

Hine seemed to feel nothing and, while matching Riz's walking speed, she continued.

The people who came and went on the street also didn't seem to worry too much.

“It also does not have to be a painting, if there is anything you want to tell me.”

Riz nodded, but his attention was concentrated on the entrance of the art gallery.

That door can only be seen as the closing of hell.

“Is this in the middle of the exhibition?”

Riz tilted his head as they reached the main entrance. There were many people present inside the art gallery.

Hine chuckled beside him.

"I didn't say it? I hired a temporary manager last week. "

“Mmm.”

“He is actually a young man with extensive knowledge. Even though he was young, he had a license of a restorer and a painting appraiser. He is also an expert in art history. "

"… I saw."

There was a stab in his heart. Riz also wants to be a restorer and an appraiser of paintings, if allowed.

“However, there is a regrettable problem. Although the refurbishment was perfect, he was completely unable to draw the original painting. And he's a bad talker, even more than you, Riz, uh, I mean, he's not used to serving customers, despite his good looks. ”

“Did you meet him on your way?”

“No, he appeared here at first as a customer. It seemed like he had also started to stand alone as an art dealer. He told me that the paintings I managed were all amazingly beautiful, so he really wanted to ask for help. "

Ah, her uncle was moved by kindness.

Is this guy gonna be okay?

Riz went inside with Hine, who was in a good mood. Stained glass windows are only built on the sides of the main entrance, which also serves as a lobby. There are some guys who look like customers.

Inwardly, he trembled in fear, whether the hellish painting was waiting for him inside or not, but, unexpectedly, the air did not stagnate. As they passed through the lobby, he focused his attention. There are dull colored tiles for the floor. On the left and right were statues of lions, facing each other. In the corner of the room there is a round table decorated with flowers and there is a visitor's note. The ceiling is an astrolabe painting.

“The center is the warehouse and exhibition space in the encircling form of it. I guess you could say that the parts are exhibition halls. The attic is a break room and an office, and the basement is also a warehouse. ”

As they opened the main door installed in the lobby, as Hine explained, all sides of the hallway were used as exhibition halls.

No original art galleries were in place where he was treated. There might be one in the neighboring village, but his grandparents did not allow him to go that far. The only chance he had of obtaining an original painting was whenever he was invited to a noble house or when a painter was invited.

That was so amazing.

Huddled up to ceiling height, paintings of various sizes adorn the walls on the left and right.

Paying attention to the preservation of these paintings, this hall— exhibition hall has no windows. The only light comes from a lamp located in a small niche, so it is rather dim.

"You can only go to the central warehouse through the doors that are in the back hallway."

Hine pulled Riz's hand while laughing at him while looking at the painting while daydreaming.

Pigment smell is very smelly. Then there is the unique smell of oil. And also the sharp aroma of the binding material.

“There's quite a lot of work, isn't it? Right now, I have summoned the painters I manage and have them draw the works according to the Seven Days Summer Festival. There are also works of people who have died. Here, look, as we walk forward, the atmosphere of the painting changes. "

"You're right."

“Consecutive, Sunday of the Dawn, Monday of Divergence, Tuesday of the Unheard Horn, Wednesday of the Lost Sheep.”.

In “Sunday of the Dawn” many paintings with bright color patterns. The illustration of a girl playing with an animal beside a spring seemed to be popular. From Monday on it became disturbing. There was a spiral tower, which symbolized demons, ruins, and other such things. Tuesday had a complete change and there were many compositions with prophets and angels.

It happened when they arrived on Wednesday.

Riz stopped staring at certain oil paintings.

That is in accordance with the regulations of the Government Fine Arts Agency, No. 20. Larger than shoulder width, it was about two arms spread out wide.

It was a colorful painting that could be seen as iconic, but deformation was visible.

“Ah, that's a good painting. The artist also said that they put their spirit. "

Hine explained. It was a work that only revealed the theme, Wednesday of the Lost Sheep.

A naked woman, with a thin cloth wrapped around her chest and stomach, raised both her hands to the sky beside the spring. In the sky, an angel and a sheep flew.

No, maybe the angels tried to bring back the escaped sheep to the sky? Red flowers blooming at the feet of naked women.

“It looks like it's a painting depicting safety.”

Certainly, the composition can be accepted as an angel who brings mercy to the earth. Flowers that bloom on the feet symbolize a blessing.

That's a good job, but defects can also be seen.

The color scheme is rather simple. The texture is also rough here and there. On the other hand, the texture was rigidly drawn. The enthusiasm of the painter is conveyed more powerful than the world of work.

Those artists would probably grow from here; they would improve dramatically if they were well-maintained. That's atmosphere.

Why is he so disturbed by something?

Mysterious anxiety spreads in his heart—

“Does the painting please you?”

Riz was surprised to be suddenly questioned from behind.

It was the unusual voice of a young man.

When he turned his body, stood a single man with a calm expression.

WHOEVER?

Although the light of the passage had not disappeared, suddenly, he felt an approaching twilight sensation.

“Ah, John! You came at the right time. ”

Hine who was beside Riz turned around and showed a smile.

“... John?”

When he subconsciously muttered, perhaps he heard that because the man named John was looking at him with eyes that seemed to be watching him.

He looked to be around his early twenties. She had a harsh appearance, like a male servant serving in the mansion, but she could also feel the glamorous atmosphere. John has a black tie, a black vest, and his long jacket is also black.

However, there were three pocket watches hanging from him: one in his vest and two in the buttons of his jacket. Each had a design carved out of animals, birds, and flowers, and if he looked closely at the color of his chains, they were also slightly different.

Her hair is black too. And the eye behind those glasses is black iron.

They were starry sky-like eyes and inwardly Riz sighed in appreciation. There was an inhuman impression, but he was a bright and handsome young man—

"I'd be troubled if you'd fallen in love with me in plain sight."

“-“

Air freezes.

It was a pleasant sound, very annoying.

“Can I suggest to see a painting from me?”

The young man continued in a cold voice that had no tone.

“I don't sell myself. No matter how much money you have, you can't buy me. "

“What, John! How are you okay with saying such extreme things !? ”

Hine interjected, confused.

“How, you asked. It was because many clients wanted to buy me along with their paintings. ”

"I'm sorry about that! But you have to look at who you say that to, because Riz is not the kid who made that request! ”

“This is young girls who are even more excited to approach me.”

The young man denied it nonchalantly while fixing the position of his glasses with his fingertips.

Hine's face became stiff, but when she noticed Riz's eyes she paled.

Riz realized there was a deep frown between his eyebrows.

“Uhhh, um, Riz! He's John Smith! The temporary manager I described earlier! "

“……”

“Ermm, John, this young lady is my niece, Riz Milton. The beautiful woman who is famous as the Maiden of Stars! "

"The Maiden of Stars".

John stared intently at Riz with eyes that showed no emotion at all.

His eyebrows were now probably carving out the deepest groove he had ever had in his life.

"I'm not for sale either, so no matter how much you stare at me, you can't buy me."

“Hm? Do I look like I want to buy you? "

He replied with a slightly surprised tone. It was as if he said ... it would be troublesome if he felt misgivings.

In that case, it feels like being ridiculed with "Who wants to buy you!" it would be better instead.

“I have absolutely no intention to buy you. You seem to be fascinated by me, yet I just observe you and wonder which part of you is the Maiden of Stars, nothing more. ”

Even Riz who had absolutely no idea about socialization could tell.

It's outrageous.

“I hope it's just your hair color. However, why would everyone equate silver hair with stars or moonlight? Doesn't it look like a bundle of spider silk or like silver paint poured on your head? "

Everything's outrageous.

“First of all, the color of the star is not necessarily silver. Red, yellow, and even blue. The reddish star is said to be old.

John's assessment he heard before entering the art gallery was too good. Far from being a bad talker, he is a devastating person.

Just his calm manner of speech gouged out his spirit even more without hesitation. The person himself may not realize it.

“T-no, Riz! He definitely did not try to underestimate you! He's an intellectual, so don't you think he has a unique perspective? Some customers have accepted it, saying that it is good! "

"Is the customer heretical?"

“Riz!”

Only Hine was confused.

Riz was still unable to remove the wrinkles between his eyebrows, but this John man remained calm.

“Oh, I know, what if we told him to choose a painting! And what if I make it a gift for your wedding? ”

Riz quietly sighed.

Because John had his consciousness deviated in an unexpected direction, but the problem now was the abnormality of this art gallery.

While keeping John out of sight, he talks to Hine.

"Art gallery."

"Huh? What about the art gallery? ”

Hine blinked her eyes with a confused look.

“I don't want just one painting. I want this whole art gallery. "

“A-what? Do you want to be the owner of this gallery? ”

"M."

He knew it was an unreasonable request.

But this art gallery is scary.

He wanted to give up as soon as possible.

Riz did not know if it was a problem with the site or if there were other causes, but the environment around this building was too stagnant. If a sensitive human were to be locked here for a long time, wouldn't an abnormality occur?

He is also concerned about the artworks on display. He wanted to check everything out whether there were any other strange things or not.

“Do you really like this art gallery, Riz?”

Hine smiled confusedly as she stroked her hair.

No matter how generous he was to Riz, he probably wouldn't listen to this selfish request.

And it was not his true intention to explain the situation and scare him. No, it may be painful to say "I saw a fairy" and be considered lying again.

“... Sorry, I said something that didn't make sense. Uncle, I love this painting. "

At the very least, in order for this painting that strangely bothered him not to be sold to anyone, Riz felt it was better to keep it. That was what he thought, but someone interrupted.

Unfortunately, I have bought this painting.

John pushes the corner of the oil painting with his index finger.

“Buy? Aren't you the manager? "

“Since the beginning I came here as a customer. I bought it before I worked. "

Riz turned his gaze to Hine.

Hine nodded while hesitating. It seems to be true.

Basically in an art gallery, the work continues to be exhibited even after being ordered by customers. They will be delivered after the exhibition period ends.

I'll give you money, so I want you to sell it to me.

“This is troubling. I am also interested in this painting. "

John showed a smile for the first time there.

“What is the reason you are interested in this painting titled 'The Moment of Liberation'?”

Before Riz could answer, Hine raised her hand lightly and rebuked John.

“John, even though he's my nephew, you can't call him impolite. It goes against etiquette. This girl is the daughter of an earl. "

John put a hand on his chin and pondered.

“Nona, what's your reason for being pulled?”

He doesn't understand. He just added "Miss".

However, Riz did not mind and shook his head towards Hine whose eyebrows were raised.

He returns to face John who is waiting for an answer.

Although it was a sacred painting, there was something inconclusive about it.

“Is it sacred, I wonder. Which part? ”

Is that the wrong answer? He subconsciously placed himself on guard, but there was no ridicule in his eyes. There was a calm heat, like the heat of a scholar who was researching.

“This is a painting that is quite appreciated to be displayed at the art festival. But it is not a masterpiece. A masterpiece does not cease to only elicit admiration in those who cherish it. It shows history, tests sensitivity, conveys knowledge, speaks to the heart, and ignites a spark. However, Miss, you don't judge it as 'holy' with that sense, do you? "

He understands what he wants to say.

A "workshop" produces a kind of faith. Although not a religious painting, many things make a person feel “suci”.

"No. I mean it literally as religious holiness. "

What interpretation?

He cut without hesitation.

It reminded him that John held a license of a restorer and an appraiser of paintings and, on top of that, he seemed to be well versed in art history. Even though he was this bad at talking.

But is he being tested?

Thinking so, Riz tensed his body. He also felt somewhat excited.

This was the first time he had appraised a painting with someone on par.

Refreshed. His consciousness also increased.

Now, he's gonna unveil this painting.

“How the flying angel on the left side holds his flute. A flute is an instrument in which the breath enters and a sound is born. As it let out a voice, peace was disturbed. Therefore, the importance of religious painting is very important. Other harmonies, or things like that. ”

"Yes." Yeah."

“This angel holds the flute horizontally. It clearly makes a sound ... I think it reveals the stability of the heavens and earth. "

"And?"

“Angel beside it has one hand pointing up and the other hand pointing down. It should show that God is looking at the earth. That naked women don't wear clothes means chastity or that is a symbol of innocence. The flowers on a naked woman's feet are a blessing because she is not broken. "

That match.

John nodded immediately.

It was a simple reaction that did not make him think that he was recognized. Riz was very careful.

“... That's not all?”

"No."

He confirmed it.

Riz's confused.

Did he miss something?

But there is nothing to be particularly concerned about angel wings. The spring beside the naked woman was also uncontaminated.

Trees also have no peculiarities.

“Are you aware of it?”

It was frustrating, but he didn't know.

But something's weird. Riz recalled the instinctive sensation he felt the first time he saw her.

He must have been caught by something.

There is an unknown distortion in this painting.

Although holy, there is a smell of sin.

“Watch carefully. Eyes are not deceiving. Only narrow minds interrupt. "

John pointed at the naked woman with his fingertips.

Riz still doesn't understand. Where's problem?

His fingertips moved, as if stroking the naked woman. He didn't really touch the canvas, but it was a sensual finger. From chest to waist to thighs. Like a punch, it swayed from left to right—

He was fascinated with insight.

Riz yelling.

"The spiral!!"

"true."

The thin cloth wrapped around the naked woman's body formed a spiral. A spiral symbolizes the devil.

"The naked woman had both arms wide open."

Shivering on his back. There goes. Even though it was in his eyes, he missed it!

It was a tornado.

Like a toast, both arms are opened to the left and to the right. And then there is the shape of the fabric around the body.

If he tries to pull out this part alone then it is an inverted triangle - expressing a tornado.

It means it's hinting at an explosion of interference. This is blasphemy to the sky, as tornadoes also disturb the sky.

“There's more. The ends of the naked woman's cloth fell to the ground, not. "

“It stuck to the ground..Cain is a symbol of reason and it is grasped by the devil.”.

"Yes." Yeah."

Now like this, the red flowers blooming at the feet of naked women have very different implications.

That's not a blessing. It's the color of fire. The fire of hell is burning.

"One more thing. Your attention should be on the corners of the sheep. "

It's also a spiral.

Riz is numb.

The pure sheep mask that tried to enter heaven was torn apart.

The real identity is the devil. And the one who released it was a naked woman. He pretended to be pure, but sinned with the devil.

It had quietly turned into such a painting of blasphemy.

The problem is that this artist is drawing this unconsciously.

"Unconscious?"

Suddenly, the memories of a distant day flashed through his mind. "An unexpectedly withdrawn "blasphemy.

—It was a distorted painting.

John smiled as if he heard the voice of Riz's mind.

Although it was an elegant expression that felt calm, his spine trembled. He suddenly thought of how it could be a beauty like that of a demon. For some reason, when he spoke to her, it was like the voice of another guest being cast aside…

“Nona, do you want to see other paintings?”

Riz could not hold the offered hand. He gently placed his finger on top.

Afterwards, she is invited around the exhibition hall by John Smith, but Riz stops watching because of her poor health.

In fact, a mild headache has begun, but the main reason for refusing is another reason.

It was due to the faint discomfort he felt upon seeing the nude woman's painting titled "The Moment of Liberation" - and how he came across several other works that evoked the same sensation.

John seemed to be looking for the right reaction from Riz. When Riz concluded his appreciation of the painting, he looked disappointed.

He was a fun young man with abundant knowledge if limited to the topic of painting. During the viewing, he explained the exhibition in a way whose main points were easy to understand.

But Riz was a little scared of him.

Like a painting that caused discomfort, he felt an unknown distortion from it.

The moment he parted from her, the moment he seemed reluctant, and exited the art gallery he was involuntarily relieved.

After he returned to the mansion, he realized how, in the end, he had not gotten "The Moment of Liberation" and was unable to keep Hine away from the art gallery.

After returning home, there was another battle scene waiting.

At the entrance, with both hands on her waist, stood Virma expressionless.

His escape from the mansion and, in addition, a visit to his art gallery, which should have been banned, seemed to have been discovered. Virma looked at Riz, emitting quite a rage that made the servants waiting on the wall stiffen up.

“For unmarried girls to go to that place with terrible security without bringing a single guard... If anything happens, it is too late!”

Perhaps to try to ease Virma's anger, Hine interjected with a friendly smile. But what happened was just the opposite.

“Wait, sister. I didn't let Riz go alone and, first of all, I invited him to distract. Riz didn't do anything wrong. Besides, this is not as dangerous a place as you would like, sister ... "

"Shut your mouth!!"

"Yes my sister."

Hine shook Virma's threatening gaze.

“Riz will faint even at the smallest change in the air! Even if she was a girl with no feminine hobbies, or shame, and had dead eyes, this girl was a weak woman! "

As she glared towards the shrinking Hine, Virma touched Riz's forehead with a soft hand, opposite to her cruel eyes.

“Aah, look! Look, isn't that a fever. It was because he went to a scary place! Oh, how sad, how lonely he was in a foreign land. "

"Mom, I'm not too lonely."

“Do not back down talk !!”

"Yes mother."

When Riz secretly exchanged glances with Hine and she gestured, 'We can't fight the queen', they were noticed.

“Riz, son, you don't think at all about your actions, do you !? For a month you are forbidden to leave this house! "

"Yes mother."

Naturally he did not come out much. With a troublesome tea party and a dinner party completed in his absence, he wanted more of this aloof life.

“From now on, you will be trained to marry me, your mother.”

“Eh..”

“This of course. If you have time to hold a brush, you should embroider! ”

She knows Virma is right, but she feels increasingly depressed at once.

In fact, the daughter of a noble was entrusted to a high-class monastery for several years where they received the education of a woman.

However, Riz has for years restored health in the Fatherland.

She learned the basics of sewing and etiquette from her grandmother and teacher. But perhaps it was different from the strict monastic guidance and, when compared to women of all ages, Riz seemed to lack the knowledge as a woman.

“Even if you know the names of painters in detail, you don't know a single popular poet, don't you. We can't do anything about horseback riding and dancing, but you should at least be good at embroidery. "

Virma puts a hand on Riz's cheek and tells him that she has to learn the knowledge of being a hostess for where she got married.

"But I don't believe I can act like a woman while being a wolf in sheep's clothing like you, mother."

His nose is held by Virma.

“A woman who cannot pretend to be friendly is not a woman! Listen carefully, Riz, next month the people from the Carotion family will gather and we will have a dinner party. There, official engagement pledges will be exchanged. "

"… Yes mother."

“The wedding was about a year later. It'll be better after you're eighteen, I think. "

That Riz's feelings are not resolved is a notice.

Setting this period must be a consideration of Virma, in her own way.

“Now, go to your room.”

"Yes mother."

Dutifully Riz returned to his own room. Borrowing the hand of a servant, she changed into an indoor dress.

While sitting on the sofa, he rested with hot chocolate.

She told her maid that she would rest for a while until dinner and told her to go to the next room.

Riz rubbed his sofa chair meaninglessly with his finger pads. On top of the wine-colored cloth was embroidery of the same color. The sofa, of course, but also a round table, display racks, curtains, and everything provided in this room was chosen by Virma.

Because it doesn't really feel like her room. The wallpaper has a calm lily pattern and the wooden furniture is all made of cherry wood. It was a wood that changed into a deeper color with the years, but perhaps because everything was new there was a rather cold impression.

The bedroom, separated by a wall with its door removed, is overall darker in color than this side. Of course, from the dresser to the candle holder, everything is new. Even the mansion's servants were far away from Riz's direction and it was hard to say he had opened his heart here.

If allowed, she wants to stop the marriage and return to her grandparents' village.

But the thought was too naive. She lives as the daughter of a noble. Marriage is also an obligation.

If he really wanted freedom then he could abandon his status. However, how could someone like him, who knew nothing about labor, be able to make a living? It was also impossible to aim to paint.

Riz can draw his own paintings. He thought he was good enough at least for nobles, who loved art, to ask for one masterpiece so because they wanted to decorate their homes.

However, it was only at that level. Even if his own abilities were extraordinary was meaningless.

If one were to talk about people\-people being skilled, then they were countless.

It is the person who possesses technique, talent, and passion who is a true painter. They are hard workers who never give up.

Gender is more of a problem than the presence of talent. When a woman draws a religious painting or a portrait painting, she will be the target of criticism.

Female painters were allowed to paint inanimate objects and landscape paintings. Even in the studio, at most they could be assistants. Also, something like teaching children from respectable families as tutors. No other activity.

Riz has more desire to research and find hidden masterpieces than success as a painter. He also admired the pigment artisans.

But what he wanted the most was to become an appraiser or a painting restorer. Perhaps he would risk his life and disguise his gender to take the test ...

As his fantasy progressed to that point, John Smith's face appeared in his mind.

His eyebrows blend naturally.

Men who have qualifications as assessors and restorers of painting. Someone who doesn't want him to get involved with.

For some reason, his eyes caused a strange unease. Like a distorted painting.

Swishing out. What she couldn't do was not just her marriage.

And what was he supposed to do with his uncle's art gallery? The person himself seemed to like it so it was very painful for him to bring it up to throw it away.

Riz got up from the sofa and went to his bedroom.

The order is a closet mounted on the back wall. Normally, the door there was hidden by the curtain curtain she had lowered.

There are stairs at the entrance of the closet, which makes it somewhat lower than the room.

Inside was a collection of paintings and art books he had collected to date, and a complete set of painting materials he had stored. Since the pigment smell would be so pungent, he did not hold his brush in this place. There are no windows either.

He took the cylinder off the wall shelf.

There's a painting in it.

Riz sat on the floor covered in a dark red carpet, and carefully unfurled the canvas.

It was a painting he received from a traveler, whose eyes were dawn-colored, when he was young. It was also the most precious treasure to Riz.

There was a fish swimming in a clear starry night. It was a painting that, while carrying purity, was also dazzling somewhere.

Riz muttered under his mouth, “Princess Fish”.

The traveler called Riz. Fish Princess. It's not about constellations.

If he remembers correctly, at that time the traveler—

As he tried to recall his words, he lay down beside the painting and closed his eyes.