Chapter 173
“Is this really something you can make happen?”
“Yes. It’s rare for Ciseina to appoint foreign artists as court painters, but Ciseina isn’t exclusive to just its own citizens. We simply haven’t found an artist with the right appeal to be chosen. And there’s something I haven’t mentioned…”
“What’s that?”
“I am the chairperson of the Ciseina Royal Academy of Art. While there will be formal procedures, the final decision is mine.”
“Does that mean…?”
“It means I can take responsibility and push for it.”
Prince Benedict’s eyes shone brightly.
“I believe Macy shouldn’t have to endure unfair treatment in the Obelit art scene. Ciseina will offer you the respect you deserve based on your talents.”
Macy wouldn’t have to naturalize or change her nationality. She would just need to send her paintings.
Since leaving her home, Macy had felt firsthand the harsh reality of the Obelit art world. She understood how difficult it was for a new female artist to survive. She had been hurt enough to want to shut herself away, only painting without interacting with others.
Yet, she still didn’t want to stop painting, and this felt like such a great opportunity.
“It seems like a good offer, but I don’t think I can decide right away… Can I think it over and get back to you?”
She knew she shouldn’t rush into a decision. Not long ago, she had hastily accepted an offer from the Marquis’s family, only to end up in an unpleasant situation.
“Of course. You should take the time to think it over. Please let me know once you’ve made a decision.”
“Thank you.”
“However… may I offer a cautious piece of advice?”
“What is it?”
Prince Benedict hesitated before continuing.
“I would advise you not to discuss this offer with Duke Krygen.”
“Why?”
Macy was puzzled. She had planned to discuss it with Eren first.
“I only learned about this recently, so… you entered the royal competition in the spring, didn’t you?”
“Yes. How do you know, Your Highness?”
“The chairperson of the Obelit Royal Academy of Art is the Duke’s grandmother, Lady Ottilie Krygen. She originally wanted to select your painting.”
“Really?”
“Yes.”
It was surprising. She had assumed the chances of winning were slim, so she had accepted it quietly.
“But I’ve heard that it was Duke Krygen who prevented that from happening.”
As soon as Macy heard this, a subtle frown formed on her face.
“Why would the Duke do that?”
“I don’t know the reasons. But I don’t believe Duke Krygen is someone who will help you in your future. When I asked to meet with you to discuss studying abroad, he seemed reluctant.”
Macy paused, then nodded as if she understood.
Eren had always hoped Macy wouldn’t become famous. He had blocked her path when she was just an outing artist, and had isolated her by keeping her at the cabin.
‘To think Eren’s influence extended even to the competition results…’
The memory of the day she learned about the competition’s outcome resurfaced. It had been shortly after Eren had suddenly suggested ending their name treatment, claiming there was no point if she wouldn’t listen to him.
Macy had received the rejection letter and surprisingly felt a twisted sense of relief. She had already resigned herself to being confined to the cabin, and the hope of standing on her own had crumbled, leaving her to cry herself to sleep night after night.
‘That’s right. Lately, he seems to encourage me to paint, but Eren was always like this…’
Even now, there could be schemes unfolding behind her back. Just like before, when he had reassured her by arranging a place to stay at the cabin and a role as an outing artist, only to later betray her trust.
“It’s better to say nothing about this until your position as court painter is confirmed. Once it’s official, even Duke Krygen’s interference would be limited by the authority of the state. After all, you would belong to the royal court.”
Prince Benedict was the only person Macy knew who had the power to stand up to Eren. Seeing her wavering resolve, Benedict spoke with even greater conviction.
“Ciseina values art deeply. We can protect you, Macy.”
“Alright… I won’t mention it for now.”
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