“It’s awkward to receive such greetings for doing what was naturally right. Besides, it wasn’t me who saved Duchess Ancel Yeong-ae; it was the knights.”

If Kahrin’s great-aunt was Sophia de Hilic, the younger sister of the late king, it would be the only possibility.

If she had attended the garden party today, by now, all the noble ladies would have been eager to talk to her at least once. Even now, she, who was enjoying a leisurely life in the quiet countryside, had been the queen of society during her time in the capital, exerting a tremendous influence.

Her influence among the noble ladies was still considerable.

“Your Highness, you are very humble.”

Lord Lotri laughed aloud.

“She mentioned that she would like to visit you sometime soon. She said she would be very pleased if you could spare some precious time for her.”

“I will look forward to meeting her anytime.”

If I used this situation well, I might be able to turn the reputation of the social circles upside down at once.

I hid my inner thoughts and smiled cunningly.

Recently, it seemed that my reputation had greatly improved among the noble ladies. Whether it was at the last garden party or various royal events, showing a good side with Kahrin seemed to have been effective.

Noble ladies who wanted to befriend me sent letters frequently. Most were letters inquiring about my well-being, and occasionally tea party invitations were mixed in.

“A tea party…”

Typically, those of lower rank don’t invite those of higher rank to small gatherings like tea parties. These invitations were probably sent in hopes that I would reciprocate by inviting them.

“After becoming a princess, I haven’t hosted a tea party even once, so it might be a good idea to arrange one this time.”

“Your Highness, which style do you prefer?”

Lost in thought, I turned my head at Sylvia’s voice. Sylvia held two hangers in her hands.

“Since the ground will be muddy, pants would be better than a dress. Still, a dress would be more suitable for displaying the dignity of the royal family.”

“Do you need to show the dignity of the royal family when going to survey the damages caused by the flood? Pants would be better.”

Rain was still pouring heavily in Syed Province. In the original work, it was briefly described as prolonged rain, so I didn’t expect it to last this long.

Moreover, the damages were greater than in Humbert Province. The recovery of Syed Province’s damages was originally supposed to be Eric’s responsibility, but due to his fervent desire, Kahrin ended up taking on the task.

He used the excuse of being occupied with reconstruction in Humbert Province, but it was probably because he didn’t want to personally inspect Syed Province, which had a more rugged terrain.

Kahrin couldn’t return in just a day, considering the vast territory compared to Humbert Province. That was why I was planning to bring him there.

Despite Floria looking somewhat reluctant, it seemed that Eric was not as easily swayed as before, possibly because his feelings for her had cooled slightly.

“In that case, I’ll order pants.”

“Sure.”

Thinking of Floria biting her lower lip, I answered, and Sylvia went into the fitting room.

During that time, I took out paper and a pen. It was to compile a list of people to invite to the upcoming tea party. Of course, the name at the top would be Sophia Lotri.

“Is Matthias also accompanying you to Syed Province?”

“Yes, His Majesty instructed me to investigate the unprecedented consecutive heavy rains in Humbert and Syed Provinces.”

Having left hastily last time without properly apologizing, I visited the library and unexpectedly heard unexpected words from Matthias.

“It might be uncomfortable…”

I could already see Kahrin, who was jealous, being wary of Matthias. Silently nodding to myself, Matthias cautiously asked, glancing at me.

“Would it be inconvenient for me to accompany you?”
Matthias raised his eyebrows like a startled rabbit. There was an evident concern in his expression, as if he feared that words confirming his worry might come out of my mouth. Perhaps he was worried that my confession from the last time would make him uncomfortable.

“Oh no, Matthias. I was just a bit surprised by something I hadn’t expected.”

As I grinned, Matthias finally seemed to be relieved and lowered his reddened face. He seemed to be organizing his thoughts, but it seemed like he hadn’t quite finished. Opting to act like I didn’t notice, I quietly tilted the teacup.

During the brief moment when only the sound of the teacup clinking was heard, Matthias opened his mouth with a troubled expression.

“By the way, I heard that a gang of thieves is causing trouble in Syed Province recently.”

“It seems like those trying to take advantage of the chaos are spreading their wings.”

“Fortunately, Your Highness Kahrin is by your side, but still, it would be advisable to be cautious.”