She may be blind, but Princess Sersiarin was scanning the banquet hall nonetheless.

Hes not here. She sighed, obviously dissatisfied. Joshua. She couldnt feel his energy.

That time five years ago had left a strong impression on her. No one had made her feel that way again, and she was eager to seeto feelhim again. Sersiarin wanted to know what that sensation was.

Its been three years

Yes? Sersiarin, did you say something?

Oh, its nothing, brother. Sersiarin shook her head, offering Prince Kiser a small smile.

Alright. Kiser went back to looking over the crowd; soon, his face brightened.

Young Lady Charles. He strode down the steps with a smile.

Princess Sersiarins expression, however, was beginning to darken.

I thought Id see you again once I was out of Hwahwa Palace

Three years ago, the Emperor had freed her from her ten years of protective imprisonment in Hwahwa Palace for unknown reasons. Having spent most of her life in that palace, Sersiarin was happy to have this little freedom; she thought shed be able to learn about all the important people and events.

The men watched her sigh again.

Rumor had it she is one of the most beautiful women in the Empireever. It seems it was no joke.

Would it be so easy to be called one of the most beautiful women in the Empire? If Young Lady Charles is a beauty with hidden thorns, the Princess is like an untouched white lily.

I want that woman, rather than Young Lady Charles.

Wake up, youre the second son of a Count. The difference between you is like heaven and earthShes a princess, for goodness sake.

Sersiarin was, without a doubt, incredibly beautiful: blonde hair, black eyes, pristine white skin, and strong features. Every gesture was imbued with nobility, and she did it all with a lovely smile gracing her lips.

Her only flaw was her sickness, her frail aurabut many men found that appealing, too.

Hey, be quiet! The prince might hear you.

The men saw Prince Kiser coming in their direction and hastily shut their mouths.

Young Lady Charles. The Prince smiled warmly.

I greet thee, Prince Kiser von Britten.

Thank you for the warm welcome; but please, dont be so stiff. His smile widened.

Its not like that. Charles shook her head, bewildered.

So, you dont want to see me?

Im sorry?

This is the first time Ive seen you since my birthday three years ago.

Ah. She flushed with embarrassment. Im truly sorryI should have come and represented my family.

Im well aware of your family circumstances. The Prince shook his head. Dont worry.

You mean

I mean I really wanted to see you. So, will you dance with me?

The people around them were dumbfounded; they couldnt hear much, even though they were nearly silent, but the Princes gestures were unambiguous.

Did the Prince just ask her to dance? Natasha mumbled, her face twisting into an amused smile.

Is it that stupid rule that whoever stands out most dances with the Prince?

Hes the Prince, he can do whatever he wants.

Maybe he doesnt know? I mean, how can he dance with Young Lady Charles if he knew her familys situation?

Shes practically from a peasant family.

Oh my. Stop being so cruel.

Envy and jealousy bore down on Charles, particularly from the women.

The woman herself was equally astounded; the Prince certainly knew, so why did he offer her that welcoming smile? If she took his hand, shed provoke everyone. Her family couldnt risk that.

Please accept my apologies. Im not sure I can dance with the Prince.

Why? Prince Kiser seemed confused.

Wasnt this something every woman here desires? To take his hand in theirs? He was the First Prince of Avalon, heir apparent to the most powerful man in the Empire.

What he didnt realize was that his position was poison in this situation. Kiser was used to doing as he pleased; he had no inkling of the nuanced feuds between nobles.

Or more accurately, he simply didnt care. As far as he was concerned, asking Charles for a dance was just that.

Is something bothering you? Kisers smile was turning stiff.

Its nothing Charles fumbled for words.

Is she refusing the Princes hand?

Is that really possible? Her family is out of power, and yet she dares?

She seems oblivious. Natasha cackled.

Hm? What do you mean, Natasha?

Natasha thrust her chin towards Charles.

How dare the future maid of the Crombell house dance with the Prince, anyways?

Oh my goodness, is that true? The other women laughed.

How does that sound, Master Gehog?

Not bad for a trophy.

Prince Kiser was getting more and more irate, but Charles could only clutch her skirt helplessly as the sound of laughter washed over her.

I dont know how to respond

She already has a partner, Im afraid.

You

Who?

Its an honor to meet you. The man had picture perfect etiquette. I am Baron Joshua Sanders.

The room fell dead silent, allowing Joshuas pleasant voice to fill the air.

This room was made specifically for Marcusit wasnt somewhere hed normally receive a visitor.

Im curious to see how they react when they find out youve returned after almost five years. He chuckled. I think this is the first time weve seen each other face-to-face. What a wonderful meetingif we cant take over the Swallow Empire, is it so bad to be a Duke of Avalon? Emperor Marcus leaned in close to the man on the other side of the curtain. Its only a matter of time before you being there causes a war. Anyways, our plan has been delayed by ten years due to unforeseen circumstances.

The other man rose to his feet, setting his green hair aflutter.

If you trust us, we will deliver satisfactory results, he said, his green eyes glowing.

Marcuss lips curled into a thin smile.

Now Im looking forward to it, Draxia belle Grace.