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But the problem was that these plants still needed to be cultivated for food and wine production.
If they were to burn down all the infected vineyards, the economic losses would likely drive the farmers to despair.
The solution had to not only effectively suppress the fungus but also ensure the grapes could continue to grow and be safe for consumption after treatment, with food safety confirmed by biological testing.
Hedy made a list and began organizing the servants to record and manage the daily tasks.
...It was a bit troublesome without Da Vinci here.
That man almost never needed much explanation. He could intuitively help her adjust tools and solve various experimental problems. Even without tools, he could create new ones at an astonishing speed.
More importantly, he was passionate and highly creative when it came to anything scientific.
She realized she was missing him, absentmindedly tapping her fingers on the table.
He was only suitable to be a friend, not a lover.
By the end of the day, six plants had been sprayed with different potions and were beginning to show slow changes.
The waiting process was quite long, so she decided to do as she used to in the palace—borrow books to read and visit the convent to help the nuns diagnose their health issues.
Just before leaving, Dechio knocked on the door with a glass of juice. "Madam, Mr. Botticelli would like to see you."
Her expression faltered, clearly reluctant to go.
"What’s going on?" Hedy asked, sensing something was off. "What happened?"
"He... seems to have brought a child with him."
Another child?!
Hedy frowned, feeling as though these men had all gone mad.
Dechio clearly thought the same, but he was still dutifully there to make the introduction.
She quickly tidied up and, along with Dechio, headed to the back yard.
Botticelli was teaching a little boy how to paint, occasionally chatting and laughing with him.
The child seemed to be around three or four years old, with a gentle and refined appearance. When he looked at Hedy, he gave her a shy smile.
"Hedy," Botticelli said, reaching out to ruffle the boy's soft hair with a smile. "I’ve found a little genius."
It seemed like he had recruited another young apprentice for his workshop—but what did this have to do with her?
"...Is that so?" She remained cautious and didn’t approach, her mind wandering to whether Sarai had set her Milan estate on fire.
"This boy was recommended by your friend, Mr. Alejo. His father is also a painter," Botticelli explained with a smile. "Unfortunately, I’m going to travel abroad for the next two years and may not be able to take him with me."
"If it's convenient, next time you go back to Milan, could you perhaps introduce him to Da Vinci?"
Hedy carefully observed the child, preparing to refuse Botticelli’s suggestion.
Botticelli had no idea that Da Vinci was living with her, nor was he aware of the conflict with Sarai.
Before she could speak, Botticelli added one more thing.
"Raphael, say hello to the gracious Miss Medici."
