“In the past, the magic you used was powerful but unstable. Considering your expression, stiff movements, and various other factors, my conclusion is that while you have the ability to use magic, you may not be able to manipulate it freely as you wish. Am I wrong?”

“…You’re correct.”

“Why can’t you use magic properly?”

“…I’ve never properly learned magic, nor have I received training as a mage.”

“Are you saying you’re not registered as a mage?”

Upon Ban’s question, Riley looked around in surprise. Then, as if amused, Ban chuckled.

“Don’t be surprised. It’s not a common case, but there are quite a few mages left unattended in blind spots like you.”

“…Still, please keep it a secret, just in case.”

“Of course, it’s a secret. If you were taken to the Magic Bureau in front of me, do you think your husband would let it slide? I would be erased from the world without anyone knowing.”

As Ban mentioned Gibnen, Riley instinctively checked her watch.

She had come out to buy his gift, but she had no idea what she was doing now. Time was already tight.

“Thank you for saving me. I will repay this debt, I have something to do now.”

“You’ve been restless all day.”

“…Yes, I’ll be going now. I’ll definitely repay you next time. I’m sorry, senior.”

Riley hastily left the cafe to buy the gift. Watching her leave, Ban mumbled with his chin in his hand.

“…What on earth is she?”

There are many odd corners, but there are no special ones.

Perhaps having a knack for frequently standing out unnecessarily or getting into unnecessary trouble isn’t a talent. Still, if he scrutinizes it carefully, there might be something to pick up.

When Riley had moved a sufficient distance, Ban stood up from his seat.

Then, quietly, he began to follow her again.

The fact that the imperial palace personally provided the hall for Givean Lianster’s birthday party demonstrated the current prestige of the Lianster family.

Especially the news that all the princes in fierce competition for the throne attended his birthday party became a big topic. There was even heated debate about which prince Givean Lianster would support.

As his birthday arrived, the uproar resembling a disturbed beehive reached its peak.

All media outlets focused on Givean’s birthday party and those attending. When the palace gates opened, journalists and citizens crowded at the entrance.

Of course, the commotion was equally intense at the Academy.

Not all prestigious nobles attending the Academy were invited to the party.

Among them, only a tiny minority, those with a close cooperative relationship with the Lianster family or Horizon, were invited, causing envy among the other nobles.

Was it normal for such a fuss to be made over the birthday party of a single individual?
Riley returned to the mansion with Hila without having a moment to adapt to the chaotic day, and they entered the dressing room together.

“Long time no see, Miss.”

“It’s been a while, Madam Blanche.”

“The person next to you is a friend, right?”

“Nice to meet you. I’m Hila Durare.”

“Okay, nice to meet you. Since time is tight, let’s sit down quickly.”

The one in charge of the preparations was Madam Blanche, who had assisted with etiquette preparations before.

She brought her disciple designers and, like a swarm of bees, they repeatedly dressed and undressed Riley in various outfits. Unlike the previous etiquette preparation, this time they seemed quite busy.

Perhaps because it was a significant event attended by nobles, they appeared to be paying even more attention.

Matching colors, hairstyles that accentuate strengths without highlighting weaknesses, the dress that suits the body best, accessories that complement the dress, shoes, gloves, and even makeup that suits the attire. In-depth discussions among experts continued.

Thus, Riley and Hila became living mannequins, swept away here and there.

Riley seemed tired from the ongoing labor, but Hila, perhaps because this experience was her first, couldn’t hide her excitement and was thrilled.

“Isn’t it exhausting?”

In response to Riley’s question, Hila, with great enthusiasm, answered.

“When will I ever get to wear these expensive things on my body again? I love it. It’s so good to change clothes all day long that I could die.”

“Fortunately.”

“You know, today might be the most beautiful moment of my life. Wearing clothes and jewelry more expensive than my annual living expenses, doesn’t it feel amazing to escape from the annoying reality of struggling with money? It’s incredibly exhilarating, and enjoyable, though a bit nervous.”

Although worried that the preparation process might be difficult, seeing Hila enjoying it made Riley secretly feel good.

Thinking about it, she hadn’t really enjoyed the previous reception. She was too busy thinking about escaping and checking her family’s reactions. But this time, with Hila and Libne, she might be able to enjoy the party a bit more.

“All set.”