As William exited the duke's office, making his way down the corridor, the maids whispered among themselves.
"Isn't that… him?"
"Yes, I heard he's overseeing the selection of candidates for the Crown Princess title…"
(Meanwhile, Louis was secretly eavesdropping nearby.)
When night fell, Louis slipped out quietly, roaming the city of Lorenza under a black cloak—still inhabiting the body of the young girl, Evie.
He walked and walked until he reached the grand market, bustling with shops and activity.
Flashback:
Evie: "So, when does the petal I drank wear off? That means you won't be able to possess my body anymore… right?"
Louis: "…It won't wear off as long as the rose carrying my soul stays near you."
Evie: "Ahh… that's why you stole the rose and slipped it into my pocket."
Stranger: "The lousy author forgot to explain that part… or maybe just made it up now."
Ding ding (sound of a shop door opening)
"Welcome to Sky Flowers Boutique! How can I help you, dear?"
(Although it wasn't obvious, from the short height and visible hair, one could guess it was a child.)
Louis: "Hello, may I take a look around the flowers, sir?"
"Of course…"
(Not this one… not this one… not this flower either…)
(This is it… the Evening Primrose.)
Customer: "Hello, I'd like three orange Azaleas please… yes, they're for my young master."
*"A lovely gift, madam."
"Yes, he's blind and can't see, but…"
(While the florist was busy with other customers, Louis took out the Mimic flower and gently pressed it against the Evening Primrose.)
After making sure the flower had been copied, Louis gave a polite bow to the shopkeeper.
Louis: "Thank you, sir. These are truly beautiful flowers. I hope they flourish under your care."
(After leaving the shop, Louis kept walking until he climbed to the top of a tower overlooking the city.)
Evie: "What's the point of copying it…? No way…"
Despite the city's noise, the flower's power enhanced Louis's hearing—sharpening it so he could focus on each individual and the nonsense they muttered.
Louis: "The Evening Primrose can sense the buzzing of bees around it, and in response, it secretes its nectar or sap…"
Evie: "Amazing!! Amazing!! Louis, you're a genius!!"
Louis: "Hehehe, I'm a legend."