Chapter 103

The dresses for kids are divided into two main types.

The first type is a kid-sized version of the standard adult dress designs.

The second type consists of designs specifically made for younger children.

Like a dress that Snow White herself might wear – bright blue and so eye-searingly vibrant it practically hurts to look at. But Chae-a seemed to think it was absolutely adorable, pointing at it with uncontainable excitement.

“Ooohhh… So pretty! Haeuni would look SO cute in this!”

At her words, I tried to curl up like a pill bug but stopped myself just in time – because if I moved too much, I’d wrinkle the可怕的 dress beyond repair.

“Of course! Haeuni’s a princess, she’d look perfect in it.”

“Yeah! Totally! Haeuni, you HAVE to try it on!”

I blinked at the dress now firmly (and suspiciously) clutched in my hands. Even regular dresses gave me anxiety, but this ultra-frilly Snow White number? It triggered twice the resistance.

‘…Should I make a run for it?’

Just as I was seriously contemplating escape, an idea popped into my head, and I blurted it out:

“C-Chae-a and Yuna need to try these on too… Let’s start with them!”

(In my rush, my words came out even more jumbled than usual.) Still, everyone seemed to understand and nodded in agreement.

“Alright then, Chae-a will wear THIS one!”

Chae-a grabbed a pink dress that matched her hair color, giggling madly as she threw it over her head like a cape.

“I LOVE pink!”

Though technically, “wearing” might be too strong a word – considering how she’d basically just shoved herself inside it. Regardless, Chae-a beamed proudly as she waddled around showing off her handiwork.

“Cha- Chae-a…”

Han Arin swooped down like a cat picking up a kitten, lifting her gently off the ground. Despite being suspended mid-air, Chae-a continued to grin happily.

“What about Yuna?”

When it was Yuna’s turn, she pointed at the same blue Snow White dress she’d recommended earlier.

“I want to wear that one.”

She must’ve thought it was the cutest option available and wanted me to have it too. Grateful for her consideration, I nodded and handed her the dress.

“It’ll look amazing on you.”

Yuna blushed under my compliment, her tail wagging furiously as she carefully slipped the dress on. Though her expression remained calm, her tail and ears were twitching wildly with excitement.

As I watched her proudly adjust the dress, Seorin suddenly burst into applause, dramatically hamming it up.

“Oh my goodness, you all look SO CUTE! Princess Yuna and Princess Haeuni! Awwww! Can I take a hundred photos? Just one sec, don’t move!”

“Chae-a too!”

“Of course Princess Chae-a needs to be in them!”

Seorin started snapping pictures from every angle, crawling on the floor and climbing onto tables for the best shots. Watching her antics, Han Arin eventually asked shyly:

“Can you send me copies of the pictures?”

“Absolutely!”

“Thank you…”

Despite the silliness, it was clear everyone got along wonderfully. As I idly petted Chae-a’s head, Seorin poked my cheek with an important update.

“Perseus mentioned that the central government wants to give presents to Hae-un, Chae-a, and Yuna to thank them for saving the World Tree.”

The prospect of gifts perked my interest, but Seorin only teased further by lightly rubbing my cheek.

“We don’t know exactly what yet, but since they accomplished something truly remarkable, it should be quite special.”

While impressive, the scale of their achievement still felt abstract. Still, curiosity grew about the nature of the reward, though no further details were forthcoming beyond the fact it would take time to prepare.

‘Oh well, guess I’ll find out eventually.’

Deciding not to dwell too much, I awkwardly flashed a V sign as Seorin continued photographing.

* * * * *

In this world, unveiling new magic formulas or magic-related research follows a three-step process: registration, review, and finally an official announcement ceremony.

Usually, these official ceremonies are dry affairs filled with journalists and industry professionals, creating a rather stiff atmosphere. However, today’s event was unfolding differently.

“Feels more like a first birthday party than an announcement ceremony.”

Perseus chuckled awkwardly as dragon elders arrived carrying various gift bundles, filling seats meant for press and researchers.

‘Thanks to the presence of the dragon elders…’

Instead of the usual tense environment, the room buzzed with cheerful energy, reminiscent of Hae-un’s welcome party. Anyone familiar with such events would call this scene highly irregular, but no one dared to complain – those who did wouldn’t remain long enough to voice their concerns.

The unmistakable message hung in the air: “What can you possibly do when we’re doing things our way?”

Just as Perseus finished his thought, Han Arin entered the room and addressed me.

“Well, it’s understandable. There’s always the risk of terrorists disguised as journalists infiltrating, or some crazy reporter bombarding Hae-un with tough questions. Plus, having a room full of strangers could scare the kids. So it had to become more like a birthday celebration.”

After hearing this, Perseus simply glanced at Han Arin and replied matter-of-factly.

“99% of them are here just to see Hae-un’s face. Trust me.”

Unable to argue, Han Arin remained silent before moving forward. Watching her go, I smiled softly as I waited for Hae-un’s arrival.

* * * * *

Sitting alone in the waiting room, I stared blankly at the ceiling, nerves building over the upcoming presentation. Fidgeting nervously, I contemplated strategies when Han Arin reappeared and gestured us forward.

“Hae-un, are you ready?”

Given the simplicity of preparations – straightening clothes and clearing throats – I nodded immediately. She then informed us the presentation would begin soon while taking my hand.

“Chae-a and Yuna, you can watch later.”

“Yeah! Haeuni has to do great!”

“Haeuni… Don’t cry if Yuna gets upset, okay?”

With their encouraging words ringing in my ears, I proceeded toward the presentation hall, heart pounding. Sensing my anxiety, Han Arin offered reassuring words.

“Don’t worry too much. I’ll handle everything.”

Her usual dependable presence felt even stronger today. With renewed courage, I nodded as we approached the entrance.

Taking a deep breath, I peeked into the presentation hall. The atmosphere, quieter but not overly rigid, greeted me.

‘Interesting…’

Never having experienced anything like it, I stepped inside. Instantly, applause erupted from all sides, voices calling my name.

“Is this what presentations usually feel like?”

Though surprised, I appreciated the warm welcome despite my nervousness. Han Arin, trying hard not to laugh, guided me to my seat.

“You can sit here.”

Collapsing into the custom-made chair, I became the center of attention as cameras began flashing nonstop. Instinctively forming a V sign, I quickly caught myself and dropped my hand – but not before someone noticed.

“Yes!”

Mortified, I surreptitiously fiddled with my tail as the host skillfully took control of the situation.

“Moooom…”

Confused by the proceedings and embarrassed by my earlier slip-up, I sat anxiously waiting for the ordeal to end. Suddenly, someone stood up and posed a question.

“So, what future possibilities does this new mana circulation system offer? And where do you see yourself going next? If you can’t answer directly, perhaps you could give us a charming performance instead?”

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