Margaret looked utterly exhausted. Miss Sylvia had Shade sit beside her, and the Blonde Princess tilted her head and leaned directly against his shoulder while Miss Sylvia sat across from them.
The young witch knew there was still plenty of time ahead; there was no need to cling to him every moment.
"Looks like you haven't been idle this afternoon either, Shade."
She lifted her porcelain teacup and teased him.
"Yes, I've been investigating the Bloodkin with some friends. I don't know whether the investigation will yield anything yet, but at least I've learned quite a few interesting things along the way."
As he answered, he accepted the teacup Margaret handed him.
"I received reliable news that the Thirteenth Ring Light Chaser is most likely in Moon Bay. He's investigating elven legends. How strange—how did he determine Emilia's race?"
The young witch smiled.
"It seems Bella's 'revenge' operation will need to be more cautious. Still, it isn't a major problem. Aside from that Thirteenth Ring member, the Seekers of Light Research Society has only one Twelfth Ring member, and the rest are all below the Tenth Ring. Even if we can't defeat a Thirteenth Ring, delaying him for a while won't be a problem."
Shade nodded and did not dwell on those troublesome matters.
"Have you adapted to life here? Is there anything you need me to handle?"
"Oh, Shade, you're already so busy. Why are you still thinking about helping us?"
The Blonde Princess asked softly.
"Go do your own things. Teacher Sylvia and I have no problem handling what's currently in hand. If we really need anything, we'll come find you."
The Black-haired Witch added:
"Shade, do you want to look at the business ledgers? This time, we've earned enough pocket money for five or six years all