The Western Sage suddenly missed the gathering that afternoon due to unforeseen circumstances. However, news arrived that, unable to attend, the Western Sage would do their best to support the ladies from the palace so they could enjoy themselves. Anyway, Ophelia didn’t do much at the gatherings. Most of the ladies were enchanted just by looking at her from a distance, and she easily got tired and bored, always leaving early.

Moreover, someone took the initiative in the absence of the Western Sage. It was the goal of the ladies who attended the gathering. Although it was just a brief visit to the event held in the palace, the ladies were excited, and Lou, who knew the whole story, found it amusing.

Melipheus and Hayden were told to go, and since Melipheus refused to do anything more troublesome, Hayden had to go out.

“He personally comes here?”

This was a cruel and ruthless world of ladies. The ladies who entered the palace to get closer to the emperor blinked their eyes immediately. In the past, Lou would have taken a step back, saying, ‘Oh my, how scary,’ but seeing those eyes irritated her.

‘These people are really…’

All from noble families and openly showing affection for the young emperor. What’s so good about him? Anyone would think they were passionately admiring the emperor. No, actually, it’s not the emperor they admire; it’s probably the empress’s position that they covet.

Lou thought quietly and shook her head. Is that really what it is?

“The atmosphere has changed.”

Why is this guy coming here again? Lou was suddenly frightened to see Catherine Lambert standing next to her. What strange thing is she going to say now?

“Hello, Lady Genesis. I heard you were appointed as a lifelong knight this morning. Congratulations.”

Catherine smiled brightly and said cordially.

“Thank you, Miss Lambert.”

Although Lou had already exerted herself through the appointment ceremony to assist Ophelia, she had to attend the gathering because her situation was better than Ophelia’s.

She bathed, changed her clothes, and received something from Hayden’s mouth without knowing what it was, barely managing to eat.

“Kinnana Orchard is very famous for its grapes. Congratulations.”

Ah, it’s attached to a vineyard as well. Lou, who had completely forgotten about the precious orchard during the appointment ceremony, smiled formally during the compliments.

Today’s gathering took place outdoors. The ladies wore riding outfits, complete with stylish feathered hats.

“Thank you.”

Among the lively young ladies, Lady Freya, exhausted from assisting Ophelia today as well, was grabbed by her and meticulously dressed in various riding outfits. Lou, who had been wilting due to Freya’s efforts and had been oblivious to what Hayden was putting in her mouth during the event, was now trying to figure out what she was wearing under the warm afternoon sun.

“Someday, please invite me too.”
At the unexpected words, Lou looked at Catherine. Wearing a fresh blue coat, Catherine, unlike the other ladies who eagerly awaited the entrance, was looking directly at Lou.

“If you’re okay with it. Kinnana is beautiful even in summer with its beautiful beaches.”

“…Sure. I’ll invite you once everything is settled.”

She said this, but she probably won’t extend an invitation. It was just a very formal conversation.

“Thank you.”

When Catherine smiled again, the ladies were in a stir. It was because a group of gentlemen appeared from the other side. At the forefront was the emperor, who always made his presence bright wherever he went.

‘What’s this? Why is he dressed so well? Maybe Lady Freya didn’t dress me up alone.’

There were sighs among the ladies. Hayden, who had worn the Imperial uniform this morning, was naturally handsome, but now, he looked very neat in his light outerwear, gloves, and riding boots, complementing the attire well.

He looked handsome and tall in whatever he wore. Although he was a very authoritative emperor in the morning, now he looked like the president of a prestigious university student council. He came from a prestigious family, was popular, and was a male student with nothing lacking. In reality, he seemed to be that kind of person.

However, just looking like a student, his sharp gray eyes revealed a political sense that was too shrewd and sharp.

“I greet the great sun of the empire.”

The ladies all bowed to the emperor in unison. The act of noble ladies bowing their heads was symbolic. Behind them, the emperor, accompanied by a group of gentlemen, smiled brightly.

“I came in place of Matapju. I hope you’re not disappointed.”

How could we be disappointed! The eyes of the ladies looking at the emperor’s cheerful smile gleamed ominously. Watching from a reasonable distance, Lou, who was present but detached, twitched slightly. Hayden was indeed handsome. He had the looks and the ability.

‘Come to think of it, I didn’t even know the white light was behind me from the beginning to the end. I probably took it for granted because it was so dazzling.’