[Lavinia's POV — Imperial Palace—After the Picnic—Irethene City]
"...Huh? But why, Nanny?" I asked, watching her deft fingers comb through my hair.
"Princess," Nanny said, her tone gentle but firm, "do not forget—you are the crown princess. And crown princesses never neglect their duties."
Sera, busy arranging my clothes, nodded vigorously. "I agree with Nanny, Princess. Even if the nobles are… well, the worst, you should still hold a birthday event. It's about appearances, after all."
I leaned closer to the mirror, tilting my head as I examined the braid Nanny was crafting. "But… the birthday is over, Nanny. Can't I just… relax for a bit?"
She smiled, brushing a loose strand behind my ear. "Then perhaps you should organize another event, Princess," she said softly, her eyes meeting mine. "… I don't want my princess' reputation to suffer."
I raised an eyebrow, squinting at her. "Nanny… did you hear people gossiping?"
