"What does your good mood have to do with Margaret?"
Shade still did not understand, so the flaxen-haired girl said somewhat shyly:
"I used to lack confidence. After all, among all the Great Witch apprentices, I started the latest and had the poorest talent. But now, Margaret Anjou has appeared."
She did not continue, lest she insult Her Royal Highness the Princess. Then she stood on tiptoe and kissed Shade as well:
"I can't directly help you like the other ladies can. I can only handle some logistical work in the city. Before leaving, Grandma told me that as long as you need it, you can take anything from the local auction house. Shade, I wish you success in your operation."
With that, she clasped her hands behind her back, bade Shade farewell in an excellent mood, and headed downstairs.
Shade felt that he might never understand the thoughts of young girls.
Only after lunch did Margaret hurry to the manor, disappointed that she had missed the Witches' "luncheon." However, she also spoke with Shade alone.
Her Royal Highness the Princess seemed to be in a good mood today as well and had not been affected by having been petrified a few days earlier.
She gave Shade something too, but it was not a gemstone. It was an invitation letter:
"Do you remember what I told you? I need a banquet, one that invites most of the city's nobles and prominent figures, where I can publicly reconcile with the Stone Masons Association."
"The time is tomorrow, Thursday evening?"
Shade asked hesitantly:
"Why the rush? And Stone Osenfott's businesses have only just begun to be investigated. Turning them into cash will take time too, won't it? What about the compensation from the Stone Masons Association?"
"Plans can never keep up with