"Oh, you flatter me, Sir Gillian," replied Eliabelle with a smile, waving one hand. For all her noble intent, it was also well known that the Crown Princess deeply enjoyed being complimented. That being said, she tried her best not to show it. She didn't want to give the impression that she only did good things just for the sake of praise. To do good was simply her duty as a leader, wasn't it? "I'd rather be a role model then a symbol of envy, however."

She glanced out into the crowds, eyes scanning the various girls before they returned to Sir Gillian. Yes. She'd like to be a role model for young women in positions of nobility. In fact, she'd like to be a role model for all those in nobility. Just because your station in society was high did not at all mean you needed to distance yourself from the common folk.

"I'm pleased to hear the captain did well," she continued, "Knowing a girl my age displayed that sort of bravery is inspiring. Hopefully it will show those with doubts that she's still a capable leader."

[hr]

"I see..."

Slightly less flustered as the magic-using knight answered her questions, the mage's eyes traveled over the dagger's blade, taking in the length and shape. Certainly, it appeared to be a highly useful catalyst. Typically, staffs were the catalyst for spellcasting, but she supposed that for a knight, a weapon made more sense. Most of what he said was understandable as well. However...

"Your pool of mana, how-"

Bethany froze when she saw Tiral's eyes glance at her chest. Even if it was an accident, the court mage was immediately quite embarrassed, turning her head to the side and quivering lightly, color filling her cheeks. Her breathing quickened, as she fought back the urge to immediately turn, walk away, and hide in her room, even as the knight apologized. She managed to stifle these ideas.

"... A-ask... ask... wh-whatever y-y-you want..."

[hr]

Meanwhile, a tall walkingstick and a wide-brimmed hat bobbed through the crowds.

[url=http://orig00.deviantart.net/923e/f/2016/185/2/9/mysterious_waif_redesign_by_vitavitaar-da8qobv.jpg]The black-haired, pale, green-eyed little girl was clad entirely in black travelling gear[/url]. While it was of the highest, finest quality, it did put her... out of place. Reaching out, she tugged on the sleeve of one of the nearest people, who happened to be one of the Iron Roses.

"Excuse me," she began, "Do you know where the sweets are? I can't see through the crowds."