After the king's words, the royal family took their seats, and the party finally had its true beginning. Various nobles and other figures of importance started approaching the royal family to congratulate Sylvia on her birthday.

However, from my perspective, it seemed like they were more interested in the king than in Sylvia, so to speak. Sylvia also seemed to notice this, and her expression indicated that she didn't care much about the situation. It's probably something that comes with being in the royal family or something like that.

In addition to the older nobles, some younger nobles approached Sylvia to offer their congratulations, uttering various trivialities that I sincerely didn't care about. However, this time, they clearly showed a specific interest in Sylvia, and when I say interest, I mean genuinely wanting to form a relationship with her.

It was evident that Sylvia noticed this, but she skillfully diverted the conversation, maintaining the kingdom's characteristic smile. However, I could discern that her smile was just a courtesy, something the young nobles didn't seem to notice as they left extremely pleased, as if they had won the lottery.

Speaking of which, I took a look at the presents that had been brought, and honestly, I felt a little powerless. There were various jewels, treasures, and many other things that seemed extremely valuable. Despite the custom-made dress I had made for Sylvia also being quite expensive, I honestly don't believe it was more costly than other people's gifts.

By the way, Sylvia's dress was extraordinarily beautiful. It wasn't as adorned as I imagined it would be, but contrary to what one might think, it only enhanced her natural beauty even more. Although I don't know who chose this dress for her, that person has my sincere gratitude.

While pondering this, a specific thought crossed my mind, or rather, someone crossed my thoughts. We were at a party, and I thought there would be no problem in bringing her, as she should also enjoy opportunities like this, although I wasn't sure if parties were to her liking.

(Shade)

As I mentally pronounced her name, Shade's voice echoed in my mind.

(Yes, My king?)

In response to Shade's question, I just gave a slight smile. The way she called me sometimes really brought me joy. I mean, a beautiful girl calling me king, what man wouldn't be happy about that? Anyway, I continued the conversation with Shade.

(Wouldn't you like to go out? Why not try to enjoy the party a bit?)

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Upon hearing my words, Shade remained silent for some time before her voice emerged again in the form of a question.

(Are you... sure, My king?)

Upon hearing Shade's doubt, I was a little confused because I saw no reason to deny. The most peculiar aspect, however, was the fact that she herself found my request strange.

(Well, of course, I see no reason to stop you from participating... wouldn't you like to?)

My question was moved by genuine curiosity, as mentioned earlier. Since I didn't know Shade's preferences very well, if she didn't enjoy parties, it would seem like I was forcing her to participate.

(Oh, it's not that... it's just that... actually, it's nothing. Since it's the king's wish, I will do it)

By uttering these words, a black vortex appeared next to me, and from it emerged Shade. Her appearance caught the attention of some people nearby, but as most were focused on the royal family, we didn't attract much interest.

Mostly, guys with enchanted looks and women with angry glares were watching Shade, who remained indifferent by my side. I didn't know what Shade liked to eat, or if she ate at all, so I opted to grab some sodas for us.

Shade watched the liquid in the cup attentively, in an adorable way, and then drank it. Her cheeks instantly turned red, and I was glad because it seemed like she enjoyed the juice. By the way, the girls were a bit apart, smiling while talking about something.

Due to the size of their group, most guys didn't approach. Of course, that didn't mean they weren't getting attention. Leona, too, seemed to be having fun and was already integrated into the group, which pleased me a lot.

While all these things were happening simultaneously, there were signs that the king was about to speak again. Thus, a deep silence enveloped the place, with all eyes on the monarch.

"I hope you're enjoying the party. Now, let's present the gifts"

Saying these words, a line began to form on a small pedestal, where Sylvia was sitting alone, with lights focused on her. The way we would give the gifts was quite simple; we would wait in line and, when it was our turn, we would give the present while saying some congratulations.

It seemed simple, maybe even more normal than I expected. However, the reality was entirely the opposite; this place looked more like a battlefield, where everyone wanted something from Sylvia, not just to give her presents.

Entering the line, I had to wait for a few people. I was literally the last. The girls were almost in the middle of the line. As the line progressed, my motivation decreased more and more. Everyone's gifts were just too expensive, and the girls didn't seem to care much about it. Shade was coming along with me, enjoying the party for a specific reason that I had invited her for.

As this thought crossed my mind, it finally became my turn. Under the watchful eyes of everyone, I approached Sylvia, who was looking at me with a gentle smile on her face. It was the same smile she was showing everyone, but I felt that this time it was genuine. Smiling at her, I took the dress out of my internal storage, a fancy box with various details landed in my hand.

"I wasn't sure what to give you, so I thought of giving you a dress that you could wear both at home and at parties"

Hearing my words, a smile bloomed on Sylvia's face as she took the present.

"Thank you, Makoto... I promise I'll wear it"

Said Sylvia, holding the dress against her chest.

"By the way, I put some magic on it with the help of Shade"

As soon as I said that, the hall fell into complete silence, and Sylvia looked at me with a confused and disbelieving look at the same time.

"What do you mean by that?"