Page 34 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

"Waste of Potential" - Selected the easiest path despite legendary abilities

Reward: +10 Comfort, -50 Respect from Magic Community, Eternal Judgment

"I regret nothing," Carol announced.

"You should regret EVERYTHING," Lumi wailed. "You could have been powerful!"

"I AM powerful," Carol said. "I have Dessert Radar. Do you know how many times I wanted dessert at 2 AM working late and had no idea where to find good cake? This is life-changing."

"That's not what power means!"

"It is to me."

Missy was practically rolling in the air with laughter. "Oh, this is the best day ever. Bestie, you are absolutely unhinged. I love it."

"Thank you, Missy."

A soft knock at the door interrupted them. "My lady?" Daisy's voice called. "May we come in?"

"Yes!" Carol called back.

Daisy and Millie entered, both looking curious and slightly worried.

"My lady," Daisy said carefully. "His Grace's steward asked us to inform you that dinner will be at seven again tonight, and also—" She hesitated. "His Grace wanted to know if you'd like to take tea in the eastern garden this afternoon. He'll be training nearby if you'd... like to watch. From the terrace."

Carol felt her face heat up instantly.

He'd invited her. To watch him train. After she'd embarrassed herself yesterday by hiding behind a hedge.

"That's—yes. Yes, I would like that very much."

Both maids exchanged glances with barely suppressed smiles.

"We'll prepare your afternoon dress, my lady," Millie said, her tone carefully neutral but her eyes sparkling.

After they left, Carol turned to find both sprites staring at her.

"What?"

"You're blushing again," Lumi said. "Very intensely."

"And smiling like a fool," Missy added. "It's adorable. Disgusting, but adorable."

"I am not—" Carol caught sight of herself in the mirror. She was indeed blushing and smiling. "Okay, fine. He invited me to watch him train. After making a joke about it last night. That's... that's nice, right?"

"It's very nice," Lumi said gently. "It means he's interested in spending time with you."

"Or he's keeping you close to monitor your suspicious behavior," Missy suggested.

"Can't it be both?" Carol asked.

The interface chimed again:

QUEST UPDATE:

"Living My Best Life" - Progress Update

● Have tea in the garden - OPPORTUNITY AVAILABLE