The two princesses had appeared in the courtyard because Leisha had invited Princess Margaret to take a walk there and admire the splendor of a Dellaireon Kingdom noble banquet. This was also a way of displaying Dellaireon's national strength.
Naturally, the princesses were surrounded by young people who had gathered for various reasons. However, while the princesses were speaking with Mister Smith and Baron Fuller, none of them came forward.
When the two older gentlemen learned that Marquis Da Vinci, Deputy Minister of the Delarion Ministry of Finance, had also arrived, they left together to pay him a visit. Taking advantage of the fact that there were not many people around the princesses at the moment, Shade casually said to Leisha:
"Your Highness, I heard that you have a handwritten copy of Summer Night Collection. My companion, Miss Dorothy Louisa, is very interested in that book. I wonder if you might be willing to lend it to us."
"Of course."
Leisha understood the "code" and was delighted that Shade had taken the initiative to bring it up:
"I happen to have the book with me, but I cannot give it to you just yet. When the time is right, I'll send a maid to find you."
She spoke with a serious expression, and Shade immediately nodded.
"Thank you for your generosity."
This exchange was meant to make the invitation later seem less abrupt.
Princess Margaret, who had heard their conversation, was quite curious.
"A handwritten copy of Summer Night Collection? I've heard of that famous collection of essays. May I have a look as well?"
Shade stroked the cat on his shoulder and turned his face away. Leisha's expression changed instantly, but she quickly returned to normal.
"If you are interested, I shall send the book to you tomorrow as