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Before she could finish speaking, Duke quickly pulled out a hefty bag from his bosom and respectfully presented it to Aia and Nia.

"Miss, here are five hundred sura. Please accept this as an apology for the damage to your home. I hope this money can compensate for your loss and soothe your spirit."

Five hundred sura was no small amount. It was more than enough to repair the walls and buy new furniture, perhaps even enough to refurbish the entire cottage. Aia, overwhelmed, accepted the money bag, unsure of what to say. As the lady of the house, she quickly put on a smile and gestured towards her home.

"Um... Are you Mengdie’s friend? Would you... like to come in for a while? We can't offer much..."

Duke smiled and re-entered the cottage, taking a seat by the dining table. His two attendants guarded the door, keeping the crowd at bay.

Mengdie, holding the gift box, felt its surprisingly light weight. She walked into the cottage with a hint of suspicion, sitting across from Duke, placing the gift box on her lap.

"Please, have some tea." Aia and Nia offered tea to Mengdie and Duke, who both took a sip and expressed their thanks.

"Let's get to the point," Mengdie said, patting the gift box without opening it, gazing calmly at Duke.

"Duke, when can I expect my payment? We need the money at home."

Duke gave Mengdie an apologetic smile and slowly said, "Miss Mengdie, this is my second apology today. I didn't bring the money. Instead, I brought this."

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The magician pulled out a beautifully decorated letter from her robe and handed it to Duke, who then offered it to Mengdie. Mengdie didn’t take it but shrugged and said, "You know I can't read much. Just tell me what it is."

Duke still handed the letter to Mengdie. "This is an invitation. In light of your active role in eradicating the Black Flame bandits, my master has proposed to His Majesty that you attend the selection ball as a guest of honor in twenty days. There, the Prince himself will hand over the money and honors you deserve."

He pointed to the gift box on Mengdie's lap: "Inside is a gown my master personally selected for you. I hope you like it."

Mengdie's relaxed expression darkened as she opened the gift box. Inside was a women's evening gown adorned with numerous sequins. With Aia's help, she unfolded it, revealing its luxurious elegance. The silk white folds, long hem, slightly exposed back, and slender waist all showcased exquisite craftsmanship.

However, the beautiful gown seemed more like an insult to Mengdie. Her arms trembled with rage, and anger filled her eyes. Aia, noticing her reaction, quickly took the dress from Mengdie, folded it back into the box, and called her sister to calm her down.

"Mengdie sister..." As Nia uttered these words, Mengdie’s sharp gaze turned to her. Nia shivered and quickly suggested, "Um... anyway! Please sit down first?"

Mengdie, holding back her anger for the sisters’ sake, reluctantly sat down. After a deep breath, she calmed herself and spread her palms towards Duke.

"So, I can't get my money now? At least, not until after this selection event?"

Duke chuckled, "Miss Mengdie, if I gave you the money, would you still come to the ball? My master cleverly thought of this, hoping you won't disappoint him."

Mengdie fell silent, propping her chin, lost in thought.

On reflection, this situation wasn't so bad. Her need for money was just a means to an end: to solve the sisters’ problems and attend the auction. Now, with Edward's invitation, she could enter the royal city legitimately, effectively achieving her goal.

But how to solve Aia’s problem?

"Duke, if you won't give me the money, I won't insist. But I hope you can help me with something."

Duke sipped his tea and smiled, "What is it? Feel free to ask, Miss Mengdie."

Mengdie nodded, stood behind Aia, patted her shoulder, and smiled at Duke, "This is my friend, Aia Soren. Just so you know, she’s one of the registrars for the selection ball."

Realizing her secret was out, Aia knew her sister must have spilled the beans. She glared at Nia, only to receive a mischievous smile in return. Embarrassed, Aia hid behind Mengdie, trying to explain herself incoherently.

Mengdie pulled Aia forward, pushing her towards Duke with a casual tone, "So, do you think she might catch the prince's eye with her looks and character? Don't underestimate Aia. She’s beautiful and virtuous, an excellent homemaker, and very gentle～～～"

"Mengdie! What... what are you saying?! Making fun of me in front of such an important person! You're so mean!" Aia, embarrassed, turned to hit Mengdie, who dodged and asked again.

Duke could only give a wry smile to this question. Although Aia was also attractive, she paled in comparison to Mengdie. Moreover...

"Miss Mengdie, I have a question for you. Do you know who my master is?"

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