It was to prepare the attire for the upcoming welcoming banquet for the Yupter delegation in the capital and, at the same time, to propose a city tour to Idel. The pretext was visiting a famous costume shop in the city, but there was another hidden purpose.

Regardless, Ophelia had decided to take Idel on a tour of the city center. However, unexpectedly, there was someone who strongly opposed this idea—none other than Grand Duke Elios.

No, it’s not allowed. Sending the Grand Duchess alone is dangerous.

I’m not going alone; Idel will come with me.

To the Grand Duke’s opposition, Ophelia boldly responded. Perhaps, even a composed Grand Duke like Elios could fall in love at first sight with a woman… Even though the Grand Duke looked at her with a cold gaze, it did not bring back the fearful emotions as before.

However, the Grand Duke remained indifferent to Ophelia’s words. In fact, his expression was filled with disbelief at Ophelia’s announcement that she would go with Idel.

Your Highness… I understand your concern, but…

Idel looked at Kairon with a perplexed expression. Probably, Kairon’s strong opposition and concern about the city tour were related to the last kidnapping incident.

However, Ophelia, who did not know such circumstances, personally proposed the idea to Idel, filled with kindness. Moreover, in the presence of Emperor Rainian at the breakfast meeting, there seemed to be an uncomfortable atmosphere between Idel, the Grand Duchess, and the Grand Duke. Idel was now torn about how to handle the situation.

Then I’ll go with you.

What? Your Highness?

In the midst of Idel’s awkward expression, Kairon declared that he would go with them. In response, Ophelia shouted in surprise, as if frightened.

Going on a city tour with the Grand Duke… Just thinking about it sent shivers down her spine. Desperately defending herself, Ophelia added to her words.

It’s because you’re busy with the delegation meeting all day, right? You don’t have to accompany the Grand Duchess to a gathering of only women.

While it seemed like a consideration for the busy Grand Duke, in reality, it was a remark that suggested why he would intervene in a gathering of women-only without hesitation.

In response to Ophelia’s words, Kairon furrowed his brow and questioned.

Women-only… Wouldn’t that be even more dangerous?

Lisandro’s city center is safe. Still, if you’re worried, we can mobilize the best security personnel within the Lisandro Palace.

That’s right. If the Duchess and the Grand Duchess go on a city tour together, we will assign the top security personnel within the Lisandro Palace.
In the end, even Emperor Lisandro took action. In response to Emperor Lisandro’s teasing words towards Ophelia, Kairon narrowed his forehead, letting out a deep sigh.

… Well then, please take good care of the Grand Duchess. I must… go and return swiftly.

Between furrowed brows, Kairon, unable to hide his irritation, reluctantly replied. Ophelia, claiming victory, responded with a cheerful smile. Amidst the clear contrast of their moods, Idel couldn’t help but wear an awkward expression.
“No, by the way, the Grand Duke seems to be worried about your safety. It’s not even going far; it’s just going to the capital’s central district in front of the palace, but it seems uneasy to let go for even a moment…”

“Ah… Well…”

At a moment of hesitation, Ophelia, regarding the past kidnapping incident, bluntly commented on the Grand Duke.

“Hmph. Seems like the Grand Duke has really fallen for you?”

“……!”

Falling into a stunned silence at the unexpected term, Idel froze. On the other hand, Ophelia, recalling the infatuated Grand Duke, displayed a mischievous smile.

“Alright… Since it turned out like this, let’s go to our dressing room and put on a wonderful dress to finish it off!”

“……?”

Observing Ophelia suddenly showing enthusiasm for dressing up, Idel cocked her head in confusion. From her perspective, it was impossible to decipher Ophelia’s thoughts, who was usually quite lively.

In response to Idel’s reaction, Ophelia, with sparkling eyes, spoke.

“Even when you dress modestly, you look this beautiful. How much more beautiful will you be when you dress up?”

Looking at Idel, who was dressed casually for the outing, Ophelia expressed her anticipation by brushing her chin.

“The upcoming grand palace ball will be attended by Lisandro’s nobles and prominent figures. You will shine the brightest among them.”

“No way. What am I…”

“Without a doubt, there is no woman like you among Lisandro’s ladies.”

Shaking her index finger left and right, Ophelia asserted confidently. Ophelia stared intently at the lady sitting across from her.

‘A woman like an exquisitely crafted piece of pottery.’

From her dazzlingly bright and smooth skin, intricate and harmoniously arranged facial features, to her graceful and elegant demeanor…

Although Ophelia was not someone who would fall short in terms of beauty, her spirited character caused her beauty to be evaluated differently. On the other hand, Idel, combining beauty and character, left a rare impression of a beauty.

‘How many admirers will be captivated by such a woman…’

Wondering about the Duke’s feelings while observing such a woman approach nonchalantly, Idel was likely to receive the most dance requests at this ball.

‘I wonder how the Duke will feel as he watches…’

In fact, this was the most anticipated part.

“Hehe. It will be very entertaining.”

Thinking about the proud and composed Grand Duke becoming flustered and not knowing what to do was truly delightful. Ophelia, just by imagining it, raised her shoulders with glee.