Chapter 1712: A War Without Winners (Part 162)
Chapter 1712: A War Without Winners (Part 162)
"It seems you don't intend to involve Miss Granger in the development of the Witch's Beauty Potion."
Katherine wasn't too surprised by this, as the Witch's Beauty Potion could indeed bring significant benefits to young women. However, Isabella and Katrina were already working on it in the UK, and Albert would likely not want Granger to join them, as it might disrupt the peace in his household.
Even if the sisters didn't mind, Katherine, being a woman herself, understood that such a situation could easily create emotional barriers.
Alternatively, it might be that Miss Granger wasn't particularly concerned about her appearance. As one of Albert's lovers with a relatively average looks, Miss Granger probably didn't have the same level of obsession with maintaining her youth as the others.
"Well, Hermione wants to join the Ministry of Magic after she graduates next year."
Albert, not being one to casually use the Mind Control Charm on people, was unaware of Katherine's active thoughts. However, he didn't wish to dwell on this topic and smiled, saying, "Let's head inside. Or would you ladies prefer to stay out here in the cold and enjoy the snow?"
The girls, of course, weren't accustomed to such a habit, especially since the cold wasn't good for their skin. They laughed and followed Albert into the estate.
Their rooms had been kept ready, and the house elves had prepared them ahead of time. They could move in right away.
The two girls felt right at home, and after unpacking their luggage and changing into comfortable and stylish loungewear, they eagerly engaged Isabella and Katrina in conversation, appearing as close as best friends to an outsider.
Albert shook his head inwardly, knowing full well that the relationship among his lovers wasn't as harmonious as it seemed on the surface. But as long as they maintained a peaceful facade in his presence, that was enough for him.
He waved his wand lightly, summoning the sweet treats prepared by the house elves, and then brewed a special pot of floral tea for the ladies.
"There's always an extra surprise here!"
Valeria examined the tea in her cup and looked at Albert in bewilderment.
"It's truly delicious! Would you mind sharing the recipe with us?"
Katherine took a sip of the golden tea, and her eyes lit up. She realized that when it came to food and drink, this man was the most particular. Even the cups they were drinking from were made from unicorn horns.
Of course, Albert wouldn't waste money on such things, nor would he engage in the cruel act of hunting unicorns.
These unicorn horns were among Albert's spoils of war from the last Wizarding War.
Don't assume that Albert was so noble that he donated Voldemort's ten thousand Galleons.
In private, Albert had secretly inherited Voldemort's legacy, along with the valuable possessions of the near-dead Death Eaters under the Imperius Curse.
However, he had buried these items and only recently started retrieving and sorting them now that the heat had died down.
The estimated value far exceeded ten thousand Galleons.
"Of course, no problem," Katrina said, straightening her chest. "This is the latest beauty tea, not only for beauty and skincare but also for blood circulation, calming the mind, and a series of magical effects like weight loss."
"Ahem, don't talk nonsense."
Albert noticed Valeria's eyes gradually brightening and reminded her with a sigh, "Most teas have weight loss effects, but most people are unaware of it. Relying on this for weight loss, beauty, and health is almost impossible unless you drink it regularly. But since no one has tried it before, we don't know the results. Plus, the red flower petals in it are quite expensive."
"That's even better. It means it's a high-end product, and there's no shortage of wealthy wizards in this world," Katherine said, already planning how to make a fortune.
"If you plan to sell this as a weight loss, beauty, and health tea, don't drag me into it," Albert said, not wanting to be involved in such matters.
"I won't forget your share of the money. If we make a big profit, we'll split it 70-30," Valeria said, adoring this treasure of a boy. She straddled Albert's lap and kissed his cheeks repeatedly.
The other girls ignored Valeria's antics, but when Katherine received a helpless glance from Albert, she pulled the girl off him.
"Don't forget our agreement with Janila," Katherine said, holding Valeria's hand.
"It's her first time, and she won't be able to handle it," Valeria pouted. "We can't let Albert suffer because of her, can we?"
Albert's mouth twitched; this was the first time he'd heard a girl put it so eloquently.
"I'll prepare some restorative potions for her," Isabella said gently.
"What I mean is..." Valeria gave Isabella a 'you're worthy' look and then changed the subject. "We can consider shortening the gathering time. Six months is too long; I think meeting every three months is more appropriate."
Although Katherine was indeed a good partner, Valeria, as a normal woman, felt that her youth required a man's attention.
Look at Isabella and Katrina.
Their radiant and vibrant appearances clearly showed that they were living a fulfilling life, which made Valeria envious.
No one responded to her, and even Katherine shot her a look, telling her to be quiet.
It wasn't that she didn't want to, but she couldn't.
Casually changing the gathering time could easily create conflicts among the girls.
This was never a good idea.
"So, what are your plans for the future?" Albert noticed the awkward atmosphere and casually brought up a topic to ease the tension.
The girls looked at each other, momentarily stunned.
What plans?
"Tonight belongs to Janila, and no one will compete with her," Katherine smoothly continued, successfully changing the subject.
"By the way, have you contacted them?" Albert asked, as if remembering something. "If we can't even confirm the timing, the food arrangements for the banquet will be problematic."
Albert certainly didn't want to eat hard food in the winter.
Noticing the girls' confused looks, Isabella smiled and explained the reason.
Many delicacies are best when freshly made and eaten! Unaware of the reason for this, the girls efficiently contacted Louise through the International Floo Network.
"They just arrived in the UK via the International Floo Network and are currently at the Ministry of Magic for immigration registration. They'll be here within half an hour," Valeria said, winking at Albert. "By the way, we sneaked into the country through Katherine's channel."
(End of Chapter)
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