The year following the conclusion of the Magic Exchange Competition, in the capital of the Kingdom of Velys, Iris, clad in a long blue dress, returned to her estate holding a proposal just rejected by the king. As she prepared to head to the study to revise it with a pen, a maid reminded her she had a guest arriving that afternoon, currently waiting in the adjacent garden.
"It's the noble Saintess of Light, Lady Monica Angelis."
Hearing the name spoken by the maid, one known throughout the kingdom, Iris slightly narrowed her eyes, pausing briefly, a flicker of confusion stirring within her.
When she had returned to her homeland from the Valeria Empire, Monica had not met with her privately again, whether to avoid suspicion or due to other political considerations.
Although Iris considered herself inexperienced in politics, she understood what should and shouldn't be done, so she followed Monica's example and left no room for idle speculation.
