Chat-Error/slightly-more-clean-ln · Datasets at Hugging Face

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Tully, who had been eyeing her coldly, suddenly burst into a full belly laugh. Ha! I like it. I like it a lot! Youre not suggesting I pick my customers so much as raise them from the ground up.
The profits may be modest at first, but the growth will be exponential. As a result, Galkheins revenue will increase as well. And as I am the future empress, this concerns me. Shed said it quite bluntly, but she was being honest.
At first, Rishe had looked at her deal from the point of view of a merchant. Shed operated from the standpoint that her task was to design a product with a high profit yield. However, once she learned of the policy Arnold had put into place, shed had doubts about her plan.
After hearing Elsies feelings, shed realized how thoughtless she had been. Rishe shouldnt be thinking as a merchant but as a crown princess. Profits and prosperity came from a countrys people. And to prosper, to thrive, people needed more than just food and shelter. They had to live without throwing away their dreams and aspirations. They needed hope.
I doubt this is ideal for you, Rishe said. But its all I can offer at this time.
Actually, I think this is a pretty good plan. Youre excellent at picking up on my own thoughts and beliefs. Ive rather enjoyed this. Tullys look of glazed boredom had become one of delight. However, Miss Rishe, youve still got much to learn.
She recognized that smile. It was how hed look at her back in her first life whenever she made a mistake.
Remember what I told you before? You conduct yourself too earnestlyyoure transparent. Someone unscrupulous could take advantage of that.
Iappreciate the warning, Rishe said.
I havent the faintest idea why, but clearly you want me and my company. And Im planning on using you to the full extent of my ability.
Tullys people gave him more exasperated looks. Cmon, Boss. This is the crown princess youre talking to here. Quit it.
His lips curled, sly and savoring. So, what will you do? I can poke a hundred holes in this deal youre offering me. I bet youd come up with something even better if I reject it.
Rishe closed her eyes for a breath. Oh? And I suppose you wont allow me to take my business elsewhere.
See? You do understand me! Even though weve only spoken a few times.
I wanted to avoid this, but youve left me little choice. Rishe turned over her final document.
What have you got for me this Tullys eyes went wide and his back straightened. What the?
What is it, Boss?
Shock was written all over his face. His aloof affectation evaporated, panic threading his voice. Miss Rishe, how the hell do you know about this?!
Apologies. I admit I took the liberty of investigating you in my own way. The truth was that Rishe had seen it with her very own eyes, but she couldnt say that. As I have written here, I am currently in the process of cultivating some rare herbs. Together, they can be used to make a medicine that hails from the country of Renhua to the east.
The knights who accompanied Rishe to her work in the garden gave her wondering looks. Rishe nodded gravely. Mr. Tully, do you recognize the symptoms of this disease?
This is what Aria is He trailed off.
Rishe knew Aria Tully very well. She was Kaine Tullys only living family member. Right about now, she would be a bright and happy ten-year-old girl. Her character was slightly more scrupulous than her older brothers, but she was no less curious. Fitting, for the namesake of the trading company. He loved her dearly, and that was why he was gathering information from every corner of the world.
Exactly. This medicine will cure your sisters disease.
Aria had struggled with respiratory infections since she was very young. Rishe had seen it happen in her previous lives. Her older brother traveled the world, peddling his wares as he searched for a way to cure her.
Tullys breaths were ragged, his voice hoarse. I suppose I shouldnt be surprised that you know of Arias illness. I speak to doctors wherever I go. But how do you know about herbal medicine from Renhua?
The eastern country of Renhua had its own tradition of herbalism that went back centuries. Doctors from all over the world traveled there hoping to gain their knowledge, but it was fiercely guarded. Having spent a life working for Tully, Rishe knew he was among one of the supplicants denied access.
The apothecary who served my family came from Renhua. She taught me herbalism. That specifically was a lie, but Rishe did know an herbalist from Renhua. Before meeting her, Rishe had been entirely self-taught; her education went in bounds after that. One of the things shed learned was the medicine she was offering Tully now.
I did a little bit of digging into Miss Arias symptoms. If she takes this medicine for a year, she will make a full recovery.
Why should I believe you? Tully snorted. Youre not a doctor or an apothecary.
Rishe had anticipated this, so shed taken measures a week ago. She turned her attention to Tullys staff. Gentlemen, what do you think? Youve already had a sample.
Tullys men looked momentarily shocked. Do you mean the stuff we took the morning after you drank us under the table?
Yes, thats what Im referring to.
The night one week prior, when shed followed his men to the inn and challenged them, knowing she would be the only one sitting sober when Tully arrived. On her way out, she had given Tully packets of medicine, saying: When your employees wake up tomorrow, be sure to give them this. It was, of course, a hangover cure.
Well, when I woke up, I felt pretty bad But the medicine helped, for sure!
Rishe nodded. It has a number of effects. It swiftly expels alcohol from your blood and reduces inflammation in the stomach. I made it myself.
You did?! Tullys staff stared at her with matched looks of shocked admiration.
Rishe hadnt chosen a drinking game by chance. By giving them an opportunity to try her medicine in advance, shed hoped to increase her credibility in Tullys eyes. To convince him to take a chance on her.
I admit, I let myself slip into old habits back then, orchestrating things as I did. I fully admit my guilt. She turned back to Tully. Youre right, in the end. I cant prove to you this medicine will work. But isnt a little hope better than no hope at all?
Tully was silent, pressing a hand against his brow. Become a merchant who can pick their clients. Offer values and products that cant be found with anyone elsethats what I say to my employs.
Yes, I know. She had taken his lessons to heart.
Tully wore an ugly grin. But now the tables are turned, eh, sweetheart?
Mr. Tully
We were just bargaining whether I would pick you. But right now, youre the one in the position to pick me. Tully sat up tall, staring intensely at her. He was a prideful man, but hed throw everything away for the sake of his beloved sister, even for an unsure bet. He was attempting to humble himself before Rishe. Please. Ill give you everything I own if thats what itll take. So, please, give me
I think youve misunderstood my intentions here, Rishe interrupted. I will give you the medicines recipe for free.
What? Tully looked at her with disbelief.
And of course, I will give you the herbs required to make it. There need not be any contracts or negotiations involved, dont worry about that at all.
Are you kidding me? I was just slithering out of our deal! Youre telling me this isnt your trump card?
I am using it as a trump card, Rishe said. But I would never stoop so low as to hold your sisters health hostage.
Tully blinked, thrown completely off, as she went on, There is, however, something I would like you to understand. Everyone in the slums cares just as much for their families as you do for yours. There are countless people out there sacrificing their own dreams to ensure that their own younger siblings dont end up sick or malnourished. Rishe clenched both fists as she recalled her conversation with Elsie. I believe that it is the countrys duty to assist them, but I am just a princess. I am powerless to change anything. What I proposed to you is my counter-method, however crude.
If she were Tully, she would have come up with far broader ventures. If she were Arnold, shed be able to enact political change. But she was just Princess Rishenearly, anywaywith barely any influence to speak of.
I do not see this as turning the tables on you, Mr. Tully. Rishe stood and offered him a deep bow. I simply ask you to consider what Ive said.
Silence stretched inside the parlor. Rishe braced herself to be told how naive she was. If this were her previous life as his underling, he never wouldve allowed her to stake out on her own.
Tully stood from his chair. You shouldnt be the one bowing to me, my lady. He dropped to his knees on the floor.
Mr. Tully?! What are you
I wont insult you by asking you to forgive my insolence. He blew out a breath. It seems that I am the one who has much to learn.
Er, theres truly no need! Rishe found the sight of her former boss genuflecting to her to be awkward in the extreme.
A merchants job is to enrich everyone, Tully said, stubbornly staying on his knees. And by everyone, I mean the merchant who receives the money, the artisan who makes the producteven the customer who felt the urge to spend their money on something they wanted. Somehow, while I was running my mouth, I managed to forget that.
Rishe was shocked by his words.
I never considered poor citizens as customers. To be frankI never considered them at all. Never gave them a second thought. But youre right Many children are just like my sister. He looked up at Rishe. Your deal to enrich the many rather than the few is admirable and valuable. My sisters medicine aside, Im ashamed of my own selfish arrogance.
Does that mean
He nodded and, with all the reverence of a knight pledging himself to his lord, said: I swear it on my name as Kaine Tullythe Aria Trading Company will do business with you, my lady, in whatever way you see fit.
A wave of relief swept over Rishe, so intense it left her feeling weak. Thank you.
***
Rishe was pleased by how things ended, and she stayed behind in the parlor after Tully and his staff left, thinking.
Ive secured a route for stockpiling goods. I sure am glad I managed to develop a prototype in time. Also, my herb garden is thriving, and the maids are progressing in their studies. Its time to begin the next steps.
Suddenly, she felt a throbbing pain in her forehead. The medicines worn off, I see.
Taking care of the field, teaching the maids, making ingredients, working on developing the productshe didnt have nearly enough hours in the day, and shed been pushing herself too hard. Shed spent all the previous night preparing for todays negotiation, forgoing sleep, stretching her body to its limit.
I dont have the endurance built up for this lifestyle.
She performed a self-examination, making sure she didnt have a cold she could spread, and concluded it was probably just exhaustion. Shed recover with rest.
But theres one last thing I need to finish up, she thought as her guards returned from escorting Tully out. We apologize for keeping you waiting, my lady. We shall escort you back to your chambers now.
Rishe smiled, trying to mask her fatigue. Thank you.
My lady? Are you well?
Rishe blinked. Her vision wavered. With her medicine wearing off, she suddenly found herself unable to rise from her chair. Dont fret. Justwould someone summon Elsie for me?
Sensing that something was wrong, a guard made haste to do her bidding.
***
This way, sir! Rishes guard guided Oliver, the crown princes attendant, to the parlor.
How is her condition?
She looked pale, as if just sitting up was difficult for her. My partner Kamil is looking after her right now.
Who else knows of this? Oliver demanded.
Lady Rishes maid, at her request. No one else.
Good.
Arnolds standing orders were that any unforeseen circumstances involving Rishe should be dealt with discreetly, with as few people involved as possible, to avoid rumors spreading throughout the imperial palace.
Especially with Prince Theodore sticking his nose in, Oliver thought. What a mess.
They needed to move Rishe stealthily and summon a trusted doctor. Oliver was working out the logistics of this as they arrived in the parlor.
Lady Rishe, how are Olivers voice died in his throat. The guards eyes went wide as he looked into the room.
The parlor was empty. Kamil, Elsie, and the unconscious Rishe were gone.
Sir, what do we do, what do we
Oliver put a placating hand on the guards arm. I will report to His Highness at once. Do nothing until we know his orders.
***
That evening, Prince Theodore strolled leisurely through the capital. He had snuck out of the castle grounds, as was his habit, with only a single guard. He wore a robe with a low hood and, at a glance, would never have been mistaken for royalty. The disguise was probably overkill, as only the emperor ever appeared in public. Very few citizens would know the young prince. He only needed to hide his face to slip in and out of the palace grounds.
Theodore turned into a narrow alley, a tight squeeze for the large-framed guard following behind. This was the sort of road people avoided even during the day. The light of Theodores lantern illuminated the shabby line of houses. He located the only one with lights on inside, walking up to knock on the door.
A voice called out in response, and Theodores guard stepped forward to open the door. Theodore walked in with a wave of greeting.
An elderly man with a hunch bowed deeply to him. We have been awaiting your arrival, Your Highness.
Theodore smiled, sitting down in a nearby chair. Dominic. Its been days. I heard that Lena had her child. What wonderful news.
All thanks to your support, Your Highness.
Dont be so humble. I help out your people in the slums, and you return the favor. Its a reciprocal relationship. Theodore glanced meditatively at the ground. I hear you have something for me. A certainwould-be crown princess.
Your wish is our command, Your Highness.
The palace was continuing the pretense that all was well, but Arnolds knightsaside from his personal guardwere unaccounted for. No doubt they were out searching. Even now, my brother acts calm, but all the while he scrambles frantically for his missing fiance.
What would you have us do with the girl? Dominic asked. We could kill her, of course, or sell her off. Your Highnesss wish is our command.
Such reliable service. How novel. Theodore crossed his legs, propping his elbow on his knee so he could rest his chin in his hand. Theres no rush. I need to congratulate you all on your flawlessly executed plan. I know it must have been difficult, grabbing her from her own palace drawing room. His eyes searched out two figures standing in the shadows. Elsie, Kamil. Thank you for your hard work.

Tully, who had been eyeing her coldly, suddenly burst into a full belly laugh. Ha! I like it. I like it a lot! Youre not suggesting I pick my customers so much as raise them from the ground up.

The profits may be modest at first, but the growth will be exponential. As a result, Galkheins revenue will increase as well. And as I am the future empress, this concerns me. Shed said it quite bluntly, but she was being honest.

At first, Rishe had looked at her deal from the point of view of a merchant. Shed operated from the standpoint that her task was to design a product with a high profit yield. However, once she learned of the policy Arnold had put into place, shed had doubts about her plan.

After hearing Elsies feelings, shed realized how thoughtless she had been. Rishe shouldnt be thinking as a merchant but as a crown princess. Profits and prosperity came from a countrys people. And to prosper, to thrive, people needed more than just food and shelter. They had to live without throwing away their dreams and aspirations. They needed hope.

I doubt this is ideal for you, Rishe said. But its all I can offer at this time.

Actually, I think this is a pretty good plan. Youre excellent at picking up on my own thoughts and beliefs. Ive rather enjoyed this. Tullys look of glazed boredom had become one of delight. However, Miss Rishe, youve still got much to learn.

She recognized that smile. It was how hed look at her back in her first life whenever she made a mistake.

Remember what I told you before? You conduct yourself too earnestlyyoure transparent. Someone unscrupulous could take advantage of that.

Iappreciate the warning, Rishe said.

I havent the faintest idea why, but clearly you want me and my company. And Im planning on using you to the full extent of my ability.

Tullys people gave him more exasperated looks. Cmon, Boss. This is the crown princess youre talking to here. Quit it.

His lips curled, sly and savoring. So, what will you do? I can poke a hundred holes in this deal youre offering me. I bet youd come up with something even better if I reject it.

Rishe closed her eyes for a breath. Oh? And I suppose you wont allow me to take my business elsewhere.

See? You do understand me! Even though weve only spoken a few times.

I wanted to avoid this, but youve left me little choice. Rishe turned over her final document.

What have you got for me this Tullys eyes went wide and his back straightened. What the?

What is it, Boss?

Shock was written all over his face. His aloof affectation evaporated, panic threading his voice. Miss Rishe, how the hell do you know about this?!

Apologies. I admit I took the liberty of investigating you in my own way. The truth was that Rishe had seen it with her very own eyes, but she couldnt say that. As I have written here, I am currently in the process of cultivating some rare herbs. Together, they can be used to make a medicine that hails from the country of Renhua to the east.

The knights who accompanied Rishe to her work in the garden gave her wondering looks. Rishe nodded gravely. Mr. Tully, do you recognize the symptoms of this disease?

This is what Aria is He trailed off.

Rishe knew Aria Tully very well. She was Kaine Tullys only living family member. Right about now, she would be a bright and happy ten-year-old girl. Her character was slightly more scrupulous than her older brothers, but she was no less curious. Fitting, for the namesake of the trading company. He loved her dearly, and that was why he was gathering information from every corner of the world.

Exactly. This medicine will cure your sisters disease.

Aria had struggled with respiratory infections since she was very young. Rishe had seen it happen in her previous lives. Her older brother traveled the world, peddling his wares as he searched for a way to cure her.

Tullys breaths were ragged, his voice hoarse. I suppose I shouldnt be surprised that you know of Arias illness. I speak to doctors wherever I go. But how do you know about herbal medicine from Renhua?

The eastern country of Renhua had its own tradition of herbalism that went back centuries. Doctors from all over the world traveled there hoping to gain their knowledge, but it was fiercely guarded. Having spent a life working for Tully, Rishe knew he was among one of the supplicants denied access.

The apothecary who served my family came from Renhua. She taught me herbalism. That specifically was a lie, but Rishe did know an herbalist from Renhua. Before meeting her, Rishe had been entirely self-taught; her education went in bounds after that. One of the things shed learned was the medicine she was offering Tully now.

I did a little bit of digging into Miss Arias symptoms. If she takes this medicine for a year, she will make a full recovery.

Why should I believe you? Tully snorted. Youre not a doctor or an apothecary.

Rishe had anticipated this, so shed taken measures a week ago. She turned her attention to Tullys staff. Gentlemen, what do you think? Youve already had a sample.

Tullys men looked momentarily shocked. Do you mean the stuff we took the morning after you drank us under the table?

Yes, thats what Im referring to.

The night one week prior, when shed followed his men to the inn and challenged them, knowing she would be the only one sitting sober when Tully arrived. On her way out, she had given Tully packets of medicine, saying: When your employees wake up tomorrow, be sure to give them this. It was, of course, a hangover cure.

Well, when I woke up, I felt pretty bad But the medicine helped, for sure!

Rishe nodded. It has a number of effects. It swiftly expels alcohol from your blood and reduces inflammation in the stomach. I made it myself.

You did?! Tullys staff stared at her with matched looks of shocked admiration.

Rishe hadnt chosen a drinking game by chance. By giving them an opportunity to try her medicine in advance, shed hoped to increase her credibility in Tullys eyes. To convince him to take a chance on her.

I admit, I let myself slip into old habits back then, orchestrating things as I did. I fully admit my guilt. She turned back to Tully. Youre right, in the end. I cant prove to you this medicine will work. But isnt a little hope better than no hope at all?

Tully was silent, pressing a hand against his brow. Become a merchant who can pick their clients. Offer values and products that cant be found with anyone elsethats what I say to my employs.

Yes, I know. She had taken his lessons to heart.

Tully wore an ugly grin. But now the tables are turned, eh, sweetheart?

Mr. Tully

We were just bargaining whether I would pick you. But right now, youre the one in the position to pick me. Tully sat up tall, staring intensely at her. He was a prideful man, but hed throw everything away for the sake of his beloved sister, even for an unsure bet. He was attempting to humble himself before Rishe. Please. Ill give you everything I own if thats what itll take. So, please, give me

I think youve misunderstood my intentions here, Rishe interrupted. I will give you the medicines recipe for free.

What? Tully looked at her with disbelief.

And of course, I will give you the herbs required to make it. There need not be any contracts or negotiations involved, dont worry about that at all.

Are you kidding me? I was just slithering out of our deal! Youre telling me this isnt your trump card?

I am using it as a trump card, Rishe said. But I would never stoop so low as to hold your sisters health hostage.

Tully blinked, thrown completely off, as she went on, There is, however, something I would like you to understand. Everyone in the slums cares just as much for their families as you do for yours. There are countless people out there sacrificing their own dreams to ensure that their own younger siblings dont end up sick or malnourished. Rishe clenched both fists as she recalled her conversation with Elsie. I believe that it is the countrys duty to assist them, but I am just a princess. I am powerless to change anything. What I proposed to you is my counter-method, however crude.

If she were Tully, she would have come up with far broader ventures. If she were Arnold, shed be able to enact political change. But she was just Princess Rishenearly, anywaywith barely any influence to speak of.

I do not see this as turning the tables on you, Mr. Tully. Rishe stood and offered him a deep bow. I simply ask you to consider what Ive said.

Silence stretched inside the parlor. Rishe braced herself to be told how naive she was. If this were her previous life as his underling, he never wouldve allowed her to stake out on her own.

Tully stood from his chair. You shouldnt be the one bowing to me, my lady. He dropped to his knees on the floor.

Mr. Tully?! What are you

I wont insult you by asking you to forgive my insolence. He blew out a breath. It seems that I am the one who has much to learn.

Er, theres truly no need! Rishe found the sight of her former boss genuflecting to her to be awkward in the extreme.

A merchants job is to enrich everyone, Tully said, stubbornly staying on his knees. And by everyone, I mean the merchant who receives the money, the artisan who makes the producteven the customer who felt the urge to spend their money on something they wanted. Somehow, while I was running my mouth, I managed to forget that.

Rishe was shocked by his words.

I never considered poor citizens as customers. To be frankI never considered them at all. Never gave them a second thought. But youre right Many children are just like my sister. He looked up at Rishe. Your deal to enrich the many rather than the few is admirable and valuable. My sisters medicine aside, Im ashamed of my own selfish arrogance.

Does that mean

He nodded and, with all the reverence of a knight pledging himself to his lord, said: I swear it on my name as Kaine Tullythe Aria Trading Company will do business with you, my lady, in whatever way you see fit.

A wave of relief swept over Rishe, so intense it left her feeling weak. Thank you.

***

Rishe was pleased by how things ended, and she stayed behind in the parlor after Tully and his staff left, thinking.

Ive secured a route for stockpiling goods. I sure am glad I managed to develop a prototype in time. Also, my herb garden is thriving, and the maids are progressing in their studies. Its time to begin the next steps.

Suddenly, she felt a throbbing pain in her forehead. The medicines worn off, I see.

Taking care of the field, teaching the maids, making ingredients, working on developing the productshe didnt have nearly enough hours in the day, and shed been pushing herself too hard. Shed spent all the previous night preparing for todays negotiation, forgoing sleep, stretching her body to its limit.

I dont have the endurance built up for this lifestyle.

She performed a self-examination, making sure she didnt have a cold she could spread, and concluded it was probably just exhaustion. Shed recover with rest.

But theres one last thing I need to finish up, she thought as her guards returned from escorting Tully out. We apologize for keeping you waiting, my lady. We shall escort you back to your chambers now.

Rishe smiled, trying to mask her fatigue. Thank you.

My lady? Are you well?

Rishe blinked. Her vision wavered. With her medicine wearing off, she suddenly found herself unable to rise from her chair. Dont fret. Justwould someone summon Elsie for me?

Sensing that something was wrong, a guard made haste to do her bidding.

***

This way, sir! Rishes guard guided Oliver, the crown princes attendant, to the parlor.

How is her condition?

She looked pale, as if just sitting up was difficult for her. My partner Kamil is looking after her right now.

Who else knows of this? Oliver demanded.

Lady Rishes maid, at her request. No one else.

Good.

Arnolds standing orders were that any unforeseen circumstances involving Rishe should be dealt with discreetly, with as few people involved as possible, to avoid rumors spreading throughout the imperial palace.

Especially with Prince Theodore sticking his nose in, Oliver thought. What a mess.

They needed to move Rishe stealthily and summon a trusted doctor. Oliver was working out the logistics of this as they arrived in the parlor.

Lady Rishe, how are Olivers voice died in his throat. The guards eyes went wide as he looked into the room.

The parlor was empty. Kamil, Elsie, and the unconscious Rishe were gone.

Sir, what do we do, what do we

Oliver put a placating hand on the guards arm. I will report to His Highness at once. Do nothing until we know his orders.

***

That evening, Prince Theodore strolled leisurely through the capital. He had snuck out of the castle grounds, as was his habit, with only a single guard. He wore a robe with a low hood and, at a glance, would never have been mistaken for royalty. The disguise was probably overkill, as only the emperor ever appeared in public. Very few citizens would know the young prince. He only needed to hide his face to slip in and out of the palace grounds.

Theodore turned into a narrow alley, a tight squeeze for the large-framed guard following behind. This was the sort of road people avoided even during the day. The light of Theodores lantern illuminated the shabby line of houses. He located the only one with lights on inside, walking up to knock on the door.

A voice called out in response, and Theodores guard stepped forward to open the door. Theodore walked in with a wave of greeting.

An elderly man with a hunch bowed deeply to him. We have been awaiting your arrival, Your Highness.

Theodore smiled, sitting down in a nearby chair. Dominic. Its been days. I heard that Lena had her child. What wonderful news.

All thanks to your support, Your Highness.

Dont be so humble. I help out your people in the slums, and you return the favor. Its a reciprocal relationship. Theodore glanced meditatively at the ground. I hear you have something for me. A certainwould-be crown princess.

Your wish is our command, Your Highness.

The palace was continuing the pretense that all was well, but Arnolds knightsaside from his personal guardwere unaccounted for. No doubt they were out searching. Even now, my brother acts calm, but all the while he scrambles frantically for his missing fiance.

What would you have us do with the girl? Dominic asked. We could kill her, of course, or sell her off. Your Highnesss wish is our command.

Such reliable service. How novel. Theodore crossed his legs, propping his elbow on his knee so he could rest his chin in his hand. Theres no rush. I need to congratulate you all on your flawlessly executed plan. I know it must have been difficult, grabbing her from her own palace drawing room. His eyes searched out two figures standing in the shadows. Elsie, Kamil. Thank you for your hard work.