[March 6th, 2012 - 10:45 PM]
[The Crystal Ballroom]
Perspective: Kaiser Everhart
The heavy iron doors of the private corridor clicked shut, swallowing Rose's retreating figure.
Immediately, the ambient temperature of the Crystal Ballroom shifted. The music slowly resumed—a cautious, low-tempo string arrangement. The hundreds of nobles in the room splintered into dozens of hyper-focused clusters, their voices dropping into hushed, frantic whispers. The political ecosystem was rapidly recalibrating to the existence of 'Axel Wiezner.'
They are analyzing me... I observed, maintaining a perfectly neutral, statuesque posture in the center of the floor. Recalculating alliances. Assessing threat levels. The shock and awe phase has ended. Now, the transactional phase begins.
From the corner of my eye, I caught a blur of movement near the eastern arched windows.
It was Axel. He had managed to bypass the outer perimeter and slip through the stained-glass gap. He looked absolutely ridiculous. He was clutching my metal radio receiver to his chest like a newborn baby, his oversized top hat tilted at a severe angle, and his luxury pants coated in a fine layer of marble dust from wrestling the unconscious guards.
He scurried over to me, keeping low, completely oblivious to the fact that half the room was subtly staring at us.
"Bro..." Axel whispered loudly, stopping next to me and holding out the radio. "I hid the bodies in the decorative shrubbery. What did I miss?"
I didn't break my composed, aristocratic gaze over the crowd. I simply leaned my head an inch toward him.
"I just established myself as the shadow architect of the Crowned Princess's continental conquest," I murmured smoothly. "And insulted the Imperial Court."
Axel blinked. He looked at the massive crowd, then at my True Emperor attire, and then down at the radio in his hands.
"Oh. Okay." Axel processed this with surprising speed. "What do you need me to do?"
"Take that radio," I instructed, my tone dropping into a hard command. "Go sit near the orchestra pit. Do not speak to anyone. Press the green button on the side to record the ambient frequencies of the weeping-wood instruments. If a waiter walks by, start eating. Do not draw attention to yourself."
"Got it." Axel nodded, his 'Dark Wolf' persona returning as he adjusted his top hat.
"And one more thing," I added. "Whenever I look at you from across the room... just nod."
Axel flashed a thumbs-up.
"Just go, I'll explain later." I finished. He immediately turned and practically tip-toed toward the orchestra, blending perfectly into the shadows of the velvet curtains.
Now, for the main event.
I slowly began to walk the perimeter of the ballroom, letting the silver chains of my crimson sash clink rhythmically.
Before Rose returns, I need to establish a localized power base. I need rapport. I need attention. If I approach the lords and high-status men directly, the controlling forces of the court will naturally gravitate toward me, which will make the women curious.
But... my analytical substratum engaged, calculating the social hierarchy. If I approach the women, the sheer volume of jealous, territorial men will come naturally to me to defend their pride. I won't have to seek them out; they will deliver themselves to my trap. It's obvious. Going after the women is the correct attention play.
There is, however, one problem. I caught my reflection in a passing silver platter.
My age.
I am 12 years old. Who'd want to talk to a kid? But due to my genetics and intense physical conditioning, I stand at exactly 5'6". My height, combined with this tailored coat and my meticulously crafted vocabulary, should allow me to pass for at least 17. It will work. But...
My eyes drifted toward the Emperor's empty dais.
Why did Noctis pretend not to recognize me? He saw me clearly in the forest. He knows exactly who I am. Yet, he permitted me to claim the Wiezner name. I cannot decipher his angle, so I will simply exploit this blind spot to its absolute limit. To them, I am Axel Wiezner, and that is all they need to know.
My gaze swept across the glittering dresses and tailored suits. I was searching for the perfect target. A nexus of social influence.
My eyes locked onto a young woman standing near the crystal fountain. She had flowing, immaculate brown hair and piercing silver eyes. She held a glass of champagne with casual, terrifying elegance. Around her, four other noble ladies hung onto her every word.
Perfect.
Before I could plot an intercept plan, a waiter stepped directly into my path, carrying a tray of tall, frosted glasses filled with a vibrant orange liquid.
I held up a single, gloved hand, stopping him.
"A moment." I said, projecting my aristocratic aura.
The waiter, a lanky young man with a tragically oversized bowtie and a completely deadpan expression, stopped. He looked at me, then at my True Emperor coat, and blinked slowly.
"Who are you?" the waiter asked, his voice entirely devoid of inflection.
I stared at him. The sheer, unbothered audacity of the question threw a tiny wrench into my gears.
"Who am I?" I repeated, maintaining my composure. "Where were you during my grand introduction not 10 minutes ago? When I brought the entire Imperial Court to complete silence?"
"Toilet..." the waiter replied, not moving a single muscle in his face. "I had a lot of toxic chemicals."
This is big problem... but no problem.
"I see," I said smoothly. "I am Lord Axel Wiezner. The man who is currently restructuring the geopolitical landscape of the Valerion straits. You would do well to remember my face."
"Right," the waiter nodded slowly. "Are you a pirate? You look like a very expensive pirate."
"I am a tactical visionary," I corrected flatly. "I operate in the shadows of the maritime borders, dealing in secrets and absolute authority."
"So, a pirate," the waiter concluded without blinking. "Do you want a drink or not, Lord Pirate?"
I suppressed a sigh. "Tell me about the woman by the fountain. The one with brown hair and silver eyes. Who is she?"
The waiter slowly turned his head, staring at the woman for a long, uncomfortable three seconds, before turning back to me.
"Violetta Van Altena." he stated flatly. "She's 22. Married to Duke Caspian Van Altena."
"And what does the Duke do?"
"He owns all the silk imports in the eastern sector. He is very rich, very round, and currently in the bathroom too. We might have eaten the same clams."
A Duke's wife. Young, highly influential, and temporarily unguarded because her husband is incapacitated by bad seafood.
"Excellent intelligence work," I said, reaching out to take a glass from his tray. "Is this orange juice?"
"Mango juice," the waiter replied, his face entirely blank.
"Thanks." I said, taking a sip.
I turned away from the deadpan waiter and adjusted my crimson sash, letting the cold, calculating charm of 'Axel Wiezner' wash over my features.
I approached the fountain with slow, deliberate steps. As I closed the distance, the four noble ladies surrounding Violetta noticed me first. Their conversation faltered, their eyes widening slightly as the man who had just defied the Emperor walked directly into their circle.
Violetta noticed the shift in their attention. She turned slowly, her silver eyes locking onto mine.
I stopped exactly 3 feet away—the optimal distance for intimate, yet respectful engagement—and offered a flawless, shallow bow.
"Forgive my intrusion, Lady Van Altena." I began, my voice perfectly pitched to cut through the ambient noise of the ballroom. "I only ask for 5 minutes of your time."
Violetta's eyebrows rose slightly, a mixture of amusement and intrigue playing on her lips. She was almost exactly my height, allowing our eyes to meet on a perfectly equal plane.
"Five minutes, Lord Wiezner?" Violetta countered, her voice like polished glass. "You hijacked the Founder's Waltz in less time than that. What could you possibly need from me?"
"I was actually on my way to the eastern terrace to review some dreadfully boring maritime trade documents." I said, executing the EDR strategy—Emotion, Detail, Restatement—flawlessly. "But I was entirely derailed by the display near this fountain. The way the crystalline light catches your silver eyes... I was momentarily reminded of the Aethelgard Eclipse. A rare, absolute phenomenon that demands one's complete attention, regardless of their prior duties."
A soft, genuine laugh escaped Violetta's lips. The four ladies around her exchanged jealous, electric glances.
"The Aethelgard Eclipse?" Violetta smiled, taking a slow sip of her champagne. "You flatter me, my lord. But poetry from a man who claims to be a ruthless border tactician feels a bit... calculated, doesn't it?"
"Calculation is my profession, my lady." I replied smoothly, maintaining absolute, unwavering eye contact. "But appreciation of true beauty is merely a reflex. I see the silk imports of the eastern sector have found their most flawless canvas."
Violetta's smile widened into something distinctly predatory and incredibly interested. I had successfully spotlighted her, elevating her status in front of her peers while subtly acknowledging her husband's wealth without giving him the credit.
"You have a very dangerous tongue, Lord Wiezner." Violetta murmured, stepping a fraction of an inch closer.
"A necessity for survival on the borders." I smiled back, a sharp, charismatic curve of my lips. "But here, in the presence of such refined company, I find my words are merely inadequate reflections of the truth."
"Tell me, then." she challenged gently. "If your words are inadequate, what is your truth? What does the man who defends Princess Rose actually want at this gala?"
"I want to understand the true power of this court." I said, lowering my voice so the other ladies had to lean in to hear me. "The Emperor holds the throne, yes. But looking at this circle, it is abundantly clear who controls the actual flow of influence in Asura."
Violetta let out another laugh, thoroughly charmed by the blatant, yet expertly delivered ego-stroke.
"You are terribly bold for someone so young." she noted, her silver eyes scanning my tailored coat.
"Youth is merely a measure of time, Lady Van Altena. Capability is a measure of worth." I countered flawlessly.
"And do you consider yourself highly capable, Axel?" she asked, using my first name to test the boundary of our sudden intimacy.
"I consider myself capable of recognizing when I am entirely outmatched by a superior presence." I answered without missing a beat, dipping my head slightly in deference to her. "Your husband is a very fortunate man to have secured such an beauty."
"Caspian is a merchant at heart." Violetta sighed softly, waving a dismissive, elegant hand. "He understands the value of silk and coin, but he rarely understands the value of a captivating conversation."
"A tragic misallocation of resources." I observed, my tone thick with sympathetic subtext. "To hoard a masterpiece and forget to admire it is the gravest of sins."
"Indeed." she whispered, her silver eyes flashing with undeniable allure.
From across the room, I caught Axel's eye near the orchestra pit. He was aggressively chewing on a pastry. As instructed, he gave me a slow, deeply serious nod. I didn't break eye contact with Violetta, but the sheer absurdity of Axel's timing nearly cracked my facade.
"I must admit, your five minutes are passing rather quickly, Axel." Violetta said, her tone softening into genuine intrigue.
I checked the silver pocket watch secured to my vest.
"Ah. It appears my time is indeed up." I said, letting a subtle hint of genuine regret bleed into my voice. "I have stolen enough of your evening, and I must prepare for Her Highness's return."
I took a half-step back, offering a final, respectful bow.
"However." I added, looking up at her with a calculated, lingering gaze. "If the evening allows... would you be free for a few more minutes later? I find myself wanting to learn much more about the eastern sectors."
Violetta lowered her champagne glass, a brilliant, thoroughly captivated smile on her face.
"I believe, Lord Wiezner," she replied softly, her voice dropping into a conspiratorial whisper, "I could make some time for you."
"Then I shall consider myself the most fortunate person in the Empire." I bowed my head gracefully.
I took a half-step back, preparing to turn, before stopping entirely. I looked at the four noble women flanking her.
"However," I murmured, my voice adopting a smooth, theatrical curiosity. "It would be a catastrophic mistake on my part to depart without properly acknowledging the brilliant constellation orbiting our moon tonight."
The four women—who had been watching our exchange with thinly veiled jealousy—immediately straightened up, their expressions shifting into pleasant surprise.
Violetta's smile turned almost feline. She was relishing the attention I brought to her circle.
"My apologies, Lord Wiezner," Violetta said, gesturing elegantly to the woman on her right. "Allow me to introduce my closest confidantes. This is Lady Philippa Lysander."
Philippa offered a poised curtsy. She had striking auburn hair and calculating, emerald-green eyes. I estimated her age to be around 24.
"Lady Catherine Orion."
Catherine, perhaps 26, wore a silver gown that perfectly matched her raven-black hair braided tightly against her scalp. Her eyes were sharp, observant, and guarded.
"Lady Judith Quentis."
Judith, around 23, had bouncy blonde curls, a pastel blue dress, and an aura of bubbly energy that masked a very sharp intellect.
"And Lady Maria Zariel."
Maria, around 25, possessed a sultry elegance with dark, flawless skin and a gold-threaded crimson dress that subtly defied the strict conservative norms of the central nobility.
Alright... I thought, letting a charming smile spread across my face. Four additional high-value targets. If I secure this inner circle, no man in this ballroom will be able to approach them without my implicit permission. It's a flawless monopoly.
"Lysander, Orion, Quentis, and Zariel," I repeated the names slowly, giving each syllable a respectful weight. "Four houses renowned for their historical contributions to the Empire's magical infrastructure. But looking at you all tonight... I suspect the history books entirely failed to capture the actual magic of your lineages."
Judith let out a bright, unrestrained giggle. "Oh, he is smooth, Violetta. You didn't tell us the border lords were trained in poetry."
"We aren't, Lady Judith," I countered instantly, turning my attention to her. "We are trained in target acquisition. For instance, I couldn't help but notice the unique lapis lazuli on your necklace. The Quentis family is known for their diamond mines, yet you chose a stone that perfectly accents your eyes rather than defaulting to your family's standard wealth. A subtle rebellion, perhaps?"
Judith's eyes widened in genuine delight. "You noticed! My mother insisted on the diamonds, but I told her it would clash dreadfully with the pastel. Finally, a man with actual taste!"
"Taste is merely personal," I amplified, leaning in slightly. "Though I imagine explaining aesthetics to the older generation is like trying to explain the concept of fire to a fish."
The women burst into a collective, melodic laughter, the sudden "us against the world" dynamic clicking into place perfectly. I had just established an inside joke—us (the observant youth) versus them (the rigid older generation).
Catherine Orion, however, remained slightly guarded, her arms crossed gracefully.
"You observe well, Lord Wiezner," Catherine challenged, her tone cool and measured. "But observation is easy. Interpretation is hard. What do you interpret about me?"
I turned to Catherine, my smile shifting from charming to dangerously analytical. I picked apart her posture and her attire.
"I interpret that you are exceptionally bored, Lady Catherine," I answered, my voice dropping an octave. "You wear a silver gown in a sea of gold and white, heavily braided hair when loose curls are the current court trend. You are doing everything in your power to signal that you are not like the rest of this court... yet you are forced to endure their company anyway. You don't just want conversation tonight; you want an experience that doesn't put you to sleep."
Catherine's guarded expression shattered. Her eyes sparked with sudden, intense intrigue.
"Guilty as charged." Catherine smirked, leaning forward. "Most men here talk about their achievements for three hours."
"If a man talks about his achievements for three hours, it simply means he has nothing else in his life to impress you with."
Another wave of laughter rippled through the circle, louder this time. Violetta covered her mouth with a silk fan, her silver eyes dancing with amusement.
Is this what they call seduction?
"You have a wicked charm, Lord Wiezner." Philippa Lysander finally spoke, her emerald eyes locking onto mine. "But charm can be a mask. Are all men from the maritime borders this... captivating?"
"Only the ones who survive, Lady Philippa," I replied smoothly. "Though I must admit, looking at the intricate lacework on your sleeves... it reminds me of the Tide-Weavers of the southern coasts. Have you ever visited the Cerulean Bays?"
Philippa blinked, caught slightly off guard by the specific, highly localized reference. "I... no. I haven't. Are they beautiful?"
"Breathtaking," I said, painting the picture with free association since I had absolutely no idea what the Cerulean Bays actually looked like. "The water is a shade of blue so profound it makes the sky look pale. The people there weave their clothes from the seafoam itself. But, with all due respect to the Tide-Weavers... I believe your seamstress has them entirely outmatched."
Philippa flushed a deep, beautiful red, looking down at her sleeves with immense pride.
"He is impossible," Maria Zariel purred, swirling the wine in her glass. "Violetta, where did you find this man? We should have him arrested for disturbing the peace of our boredom."
"He found me, Maria." Violetta corrected, a distinct note of pride in her voice, stepping slightly closer to me to reassert her dominance over the circle. "And I believe he is entirely too dangerous to arrest."
"Dangerous?" I placed a hand over my heart in mock offense. "Lady Violetta, I am merely a humble student of the world. In fact, considering your husband's vast empire of silk... I was hoping you might educate me on the finer points of central trade."
I smoothly passed the spotlight back to her.
Violetta's posture straightened, glowing under the sudden deference. "Well, Caspian handles the ledgers, but the actual supplier negotiations... those require a certain... feminine touch to prevent wars."
"I have no doubt." I agreed warmly. "I imagine dealing with the stubborn northern barons requires the patience of a saint. How do you manage not to strangle them?"
"Oh, it's quite simple." Violetta laughed, completely in her element. "You just compliment their atrocious facial hair and let them think the trade tariffs were their idea."
"Brilliant." I nodded in genuine approval. "A flawless deployment of the male ego. I shall have to take notes."
The banter flowed seamlessly. For the next ten minutes, I orchestrated the conversation like a maestro. I asked Maria about her family, complimenting her subtle defiance of the Empress's usual color palette, making her feel like a quiet revolutionary. I teased Judith about her hidden intellect, and engaged Catherine in a rapid-fire debate about court politics, always ensuring Violetta remained the central sun we all orbited.
The laughter from our circle grew louder, cutting through the stifling, formal ambiance of the ballroom.
It was a beacon.
Like moths to a flame, the sheer intensity and joy of our conversation began drawing attention.
From the corners of my vision, I noticed four other noble girls drifting away from their boring, politically stiff partners, gravitating toward our circle.
They hovered hesitantly on the edges, holding their crystal glasses, their eyes darting between Violetta and me, desperate to be part of the inside jokes they were missing.
I paused mid-sentence, looking past Catherine's shoulder, and offered a warm, incredibly charming smile to the newcomers.
"Lady Violetta," I said softly, interrupting my own story about a fictitious maritime naval battle. "It appears our laughter has summoned the rest of the stars. I must apologize, as my intelligence briefings clearly failed me—I do not recognize these beautiful additions to our evening."
Violetta turned, looking at the four girls. She smiled graciously, enjoying her role as the undisputed queen of this expanding court.
"Allow me, Axel," Violetta said. "This is Lady Bianca, Lady Lucinda, Lady Nymera, and Lady Celyna."
The four girls, all likely in their early twenties, blushed furiously under the sudden, combined attention of the circle and my intense gaze.
"Bianca, Lucinda, Nymera, and Celyna," I repeated, stepping back slightly to open the physical circle, implicitly inviting them in. "It is an absolute honor. I was just telling Lady Catherine how dreadfully dull the central court can be, but it seems I was entirely mistaken. The true vibrancy of Asura was simply hiding in this corner."
"We couldn't help but overhear," Bianca, a timid girl with soft pink hair, murmured. "You were speaking of the Cerulean Bays?"
"I was," I smiled, offering her my full, undivided attention. "Though looking at the four of you... I fear any stories of the sea will pale in comparison to the sheer elegance you've brought to this circle. Please, join us. Lady Violetta was just educating me on the finer points of surviving the capital's boredom."
They giggled, eagerly stepping into the circle.
*
[Empress Rosaline's Perspective]
Up on the golden dais, isolated within my pressurized sound barrier, I rested my chin on my palm.
I was watching my son.
He had completely abandoned the Crowned Princess's side, and within 15 minutes, he had amassed a following of exactly 9 of the most influential, wealthy, and politically connected young noblewomen in the entire Empire.
They were laughing. They were hanging onto his every word. The young men in the ballroom were glaring at him from across the floor, absolutely furious, yet completely paralyzed by the sheer social wall Kaiser had erected around himself.
A slow, wicked, incredibly proud smirk spread across my face.
"Noctis... I told you so." I murmured, my eyes gleaming with amusement.
"I see it, Rosaline." my husband replied, his voice dry.
"Already has a harem." I whispered, thoroughly entertained. "And he has already conquered half the ballroom. He is absolutely, undeniably my son."
*
[Kaiser's Perspective]
One. Two. Three. Four. Five.
I mentally counted the women currently laughing at a joke I had just completely fabricated about a Valerion pirate story.
Six. Seven. Eight. Nine.
I took a slow sip of my mango juice, letting my eyes sweep over the furious, jealous faces of the young lords staring at us from the perimeter. They were pacing like angry birds, desperate to intervene, but entirely unable to breach the social fortress I had just built. If they approached now, they would look desperate. I held all the cards.
It will only grow from here. I reflected. By the time Rose returns, I won't just be a stranger who hijacked the dance. I will be the undisputed social epicenter of the Founder's Gala.
It's been a long time seen I tried.
I turned my attention to the newcomers, specifically the timid girl with pink hair, and the rebellious silver-gowned noble.
"Lady Bianca, Lady Catherine," I addressed them, my tone inviting and warm. "We have spoken of boredom and court politics. But tell me, when you are not forced to endure these galas, where does your true passion lie?"
Catherine crossed her arms, her sharp eyes studying me. "I map the sunken ruins of the old Celestine archipelago. Most people think it's just collecting old rocks, but the structural integrity of pre-collapse masonry is fascinating."
"I... I breed luminescent orchids," Bianca added softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "It takes years to stabilize the mana in the petals, but when they finally bloom, they glow in the dark."
"Fascinating," I murmured, leaning in slightly, locking eyes with them. "I imagine most lords praise you for your dedication to history, Catherine. And they likely praise you for your patience, Bianca. But they are missing the point entirely."
Both women blinked, caught slightly off guard.
"Catherine," I said, my voice dropping into a sincere, almost intimate register. "You map ruins not because you like old stones, but because you appreciate things that have endured immense, crushing pressure without breaking. You are looking for your own reflection in the deep. You find the old beauty that endured, that tells me what our kind are capable of. Trully a lost art"
Catherine's breath hitched slightly, her guarded posture completely dissolving.
"And Bianca," I turned to the pink-haired girl, offering a gentle smile. "You don't breed light in the dark because you are patient. You do it because you refuse to accept the world as a dim place. You aren't just a botanist. The flower reminds you that growth takes time. Every petal tells a story, every bloom carries love. You're a deeply soul Lady Bianca."
A profound, stunned silence fell over the circle. The ladies looked at me with wide, completely surprised eyes. I had just bypassed the superficial layers of their hobbies and struck directly at their psychological cores.
"You..." Catherine started, her voice unusually soft. "You are far too perceptive, Lord Wiezner."
"I merely state the obvious." I replied with a dismissive, elegant wave of my hand, immediately shifting the spotlight back. "But forgive me, what were you saying, Catherine?"
"I... thank you," Catherine stammered slightly, a genuine smile breaking through her usual cold exterior. "No one has ever... understood my work like that. Thank you, Axel."
Violetta watched this entire interaction with predatory, deeply intrigued silver eyes. She was utterly captivated by how easily I dismantled the emotional defenses of her peers.
I smoothly pivoted my attention back to her, ensuring she remained the center of gravity.
"But enough of our introspective musings," I said brightly. "Lady Violetta, surely the queen of the eastern sectors has something grand on the horizon? Any exciting new events or travels?"
Violetta smiled, clearly pleased to have the spotlight returned to her. "Actually, yes. I am preparing a large expedition to the Celestine province next month. It is quite a massive undertaking. It's a visit deeper into the Mythria coasts."
"Celestine? Mythria?" I repeated, adopting a look of profound, theatrical concern. "Ah. My lady, I highly recommend you pack industrial-grade bug repellent. The mosquitoes in Celestine are the size of sparrows and twice as aggressive. I once saw one carry away a small dog."
The entire circle of women burst into a chorus of unrestrained giggles at the sheer absurdity of the advice.
"I will... keep that in mind, Axel." Violetta laughed behind her silk fan.
"But in all seriousness," I continued, my tone shifting into something deeply respectful and poetic. "Celestine was recently ravaged by the Ashen Plagues, was it not? Children with weak immune systems are dying by the hundreds."
The laughter died down, replaced by a somber, respectful silence.
"You didn't mention your reason for going, Violetta, but it is entirely obvious," I said softly, my eyes locking onto hers. "You are going there to bring medical aid and supplies. You are going into a plague zone of Mythria to give those innocent people a second chance at life."
I took a half-step closer, lowering my voice.
"And I have no doubt you had to fight for this," I murmured. "What merchant husband would willingly let his beautiful, flawless wife travel into a disaster zone? You made the choice to defy him, to use your wealth to save the innocent. You have a truly beautiful kindess, Violetta."
Violetta's cheeks flushed a brilliant, radiant red. For the first time all evening, her perfectly composed, aristocratic mask slipped, revealing genuine, raw emotion under the sheer weight of the poetic praise.
"You..." Violetta whispered, her silver eyes shimmering. "You managed to catch onto that? I haven't told anyone the real reason. You are incredible, Axel."
Before I could lock in the emotional victory, a loud, aggressively booming voice shattered the intimacy of our circle.
"Violetta! What is the meaning of this?"
The circle parted abruptly. Standing there was Caspian Van Altena—a remarkably round, sweating man in an overly expensive gold coat, his face flushed with extreme jealousy.
Flanking him were two other furious noblemen.
"Bianca, step away from him." Tristan, a tall, wary young man who looked remarkably like Bianca, ordered sharply.
"Catherine, come here immediately." Leonardo, an older, defensive-looking man with silver hair, barked at his daughter.
The three men glared at me, radiating territorial hostility. The atmosphere in the circle instantly plummeted from joyful to incredibly tense.
I didn't flinch. I didn't even drop my smile. I simply pivoted smoothly toward the angry Duke.
"Ah!" I exclaimed brightly, clapping my hands together. "Happy birthday, Lord Caspian!"
Caspian froze, his furious momentum completely derailed by the sheer absurdity of the greeting. He blinked, looking around in confusion.
"My birthday?" Caspian asked, his brow furrowing deeply. He shook his head. "No. It is not my birthday."
"Why?" I asked, tilting my head with genuine, innocent curiosity. "Were you never born?"
A sharp, sudden snort of laughter escaped Judith. Bianca quickly covered her mouth to stifle a giggle, and even Violetta had to bite her lower lip to keep from laughing out loud at her husband's expense.
"Of course I was born!" Caspian snapped, his face turning redder. He glared at me, totally confused by the logic trap. "How did you find out?"
"Because I was born too!" I replied flawlessly, stepping forward and placing a friendly, completely uninvited hand on his shoulder.
"You were born. I was born. So naturally, we are born brothers."
Without missing a beat, I reached out and plucked a pristine white lily from a nearby decorative crystal vase. I held it out to him with a grand, theatrical flourish.
"Here, brother," I said smoothly. "I brought you the legendary flower of youth."
Caspian stared at the flower, then at me. "What is this?"
"It possesses natural remedies," I explained, my tone dripping with absolute, confident charisma. "Just rub the petals on your temples. It is scientifically proven to shave ten years off your stress and perhaps recover your receding hairline. We born brothers must look out for one another."
This time, the women didn't bother hiding it. They burst into peals of bright, echoing laughter. Tristan and Leonardo looked completely bewildered, the tension evaporating into sheer, ridiculous comedy.
"Are you... are you insulting me, boy?!" Caspian sputtered, swatting the flower away, his chest heaving with indignation.
"Insulting you?" I gasped in mock horror. "Lord Caspian, I am trying to save your youth! The stress of the silk trade is clearly aging you prematurely! I am prescribing medicine, and you reject it?"
More laughter erupted. The sheer volume of our chaotic, hilarious interaction was now acting as a magnet. Dozens of other nobles began drifting toward us, craning their necks to see who was publicly making a Perfect. I smiled at the crowd. The audience has arrived. It's time to lead the conversation.
Tristan took a step forward, his jaw clenched so tight it looked painful. He pointed a heavily ringed finger at my chest.
"You are stepping on extremely dangerous ground, Wiezner," Tristan snarled, trying to inject venom into his voice. "If you continue to mock us in front of these ladies, I swear, my inner animal will come out."
I looked at him, my expression completely flat.
"Well, Lord Tristan," I replied smoothly, my voice carrying clearly across the gathering crowd. "Given the state of your looks and that atrocious haircut, you look quite a bit like an animal from the outside, too. So at least you are consistent."
From the edge of the circle, Axel, still wearing his oversized top hat, gave me a slow, deeply serious nod of approval.
The women erupted. Bianca buried her face in her hands to hide her laughter, while Maria Zariel openly cackled.
"Listen here, you arrogant little brat!" Leonardo snapped, stepping up beside Tristan. The older man puffed out his chest, his silver hair bristling. "I am Leonardo Orion! I commanded the 4th Imperial Vanguard at the Battle of the Red Peaks! I have slain wyverns and dragonics! I will not be insulted by a child who plays with words!"
"Ah, the Battle of the Red Peaks," I nodded respectfully, though my eyes gleamed with absolute malice. "A glorious military endeavor. Though, if I recall the classified briefs correctly... didn't the 4th Vanguard arrive three days late because the commander couldn't read a map?"
Leonardo's face turned the color of a crushed plum. "That is classified Imperial information! I mean... that is a blatant lie!"
"A lie?" I gasped in mock offense. "Lord Leonardo, I would never lie. In fact, looking at the three of you standing here together... it all makes perfect sense now. You are the three survivors."
Caspian frowned, his multiple chins wobbling. "Survivors? Survivors of what?"
"The great tragedy of the Eastern Love Triangle." I said, lowering my voice into a tone of profound, dramatic sorrow. "I read the intelligence dossier just this morning. It is a miracle you three are even alive."
"There was no tragedy!" Caspian shouted, looking around frantically as the crowd around us began to swell. We had drawn at least thirty nobles now, all listening intently. "I made a record profit on the Eastern Route this quarter! What do you mean love triangle?!"
"Please, Caspian," I placed a sympathetic hand over my heart. "You don't have to put on a brave face for the ladies. We are all friends here. We know about the... 120-kilo tobacco-chewing troll that hijacked your caravan."
Violetta bit her lip so hard it nearly bled, her shoulders shaking with silent, hysterical laughter.
"A tobacco-chewing troll?!" Leonardo roared. "What kind of absolute nonsense are you spewing?!"
"It's not nonsense, Leonardo," I insisted gravely. "The dossier stated that Tristan here bravely tried to fight it off. But tragically, he tripped over his own oversized boots while running away and fell headfirst into a vat of toxic acid."
"Toxic acid?!" Tristan yelled, gesturing wildly to his own face. "I am standing right here! My skin is flawless!"
"Bro, the acid just burned off your personality." a new, deeply sarcastic voice chimed in.
The crowd parted slightly as Axel stepped right into the center of the circle, casually chewing on a piece of bread. He didn't bother with eloquent noble speech; he went straight for the jugular.
"Your skin is fine, but you look completely dead inside."
The crowd of forty nobles collectively gasped, before bursting into a massive roar of laughter.
"Who is this street urchin?!" Caspian demanded, pointing a trembling, fat finger at Axel.
"My name's King." Axel fired back without missing a beat, swallowing his bread. "Lately I've heard you're searching for a bride? The reports say its your 4th marriage.."
"What nonsense!" Caspian defended himself, sweating profusely.
"I heard you like em young." Axel deadpanned.
Another wave of roaring laughter ripped through the crowd. Catherine had to lean against Bianca just to stay upright.
"More brides?" I shook my head in tragic disbelief. "How terrifying. But the tragedy gets worse, doesn't it, Leonardo? Because after Tristan fell into the acid, you bravely stepped forward, drew your legendary katanna... and immediately broke your back."
"My back is perfectly fine!" Leonardo screamed, clutching his spine purely out of reflex. "I am a war hero!"
"A war hero who now needs a custom-built wheelchair in a few hours." I countered flawlessly. "Courtesy of Caspian's ruined marriage tragedy."
"I do not intend to get married again!" Caspian shrieked, his voice cracking perfectly on the last syllable.
"Caspian, the priest was very clear." I said, taking a step closer, my eyes wide with fake pity. "To survive the financial tragedy, you must marry again and give birth to an heir within the year. And by heir, I mean... you had to marry a goblin. It was a beautiful ceremony, I heard."
The crowd absolutely lost its mind. Forty-five nobles were now packed around us, some literally wiping tears from their eyes. Violetta was laughing so hard she had to grip my arm for support.
"I AM MARRIED TO VIOLETTA!" Caspian roared, pointing desperately at his wife. "SHE IS RIGHT HERE!"
"Ahh..." I stroked my chin thoughtfully. "Lady Van Altena is beautiful indeed."
"However, I heard that the dowry was a complete disaster."
"I am going to snap your neck!" Tristan lunged forward, absolutely completely unhinged.
Axel effortlessly sidestepped him, sticking a foot out. Tristan tripped, stumbling hard and barely catching himself before face-planting into the marble floor.
"Snap his neck with what?" Axel sneered, looking down at the stumbling noble. "Those toothpick arms? You gotta hit the gym."
"Guards!" Leonardo bellowed at the top of his lungs, his face purple. "Call the Imperial Guards! This is slander of the highest order!"
"Slander is spoken, Leonardo." I corrected him smoothly, adjusting my cuffs. "In print, it is libel. And since I am merely recounting a factual tragedy from a classified dossier, it is neither. It is simply a eulogy for your reputations."
The three men were completely shocked. They stood in the center of a laughing circle of nearly 50 people, panting, humiliated, and utterly outclassed.
Before Leonardo could actually summon the guards and escalate the situation to violence, the crowd suddenly parted. The laughter died instantly, replaced by a swift, collective intake of breath.
Princess Iris Valentine stepped into the circle.
She wore a breathtaking gown of midnight blue, her golden eyes sweeping over the scene with terrifying, regal authority. She looked at the three sweating, furious men, then at Axel, and finally, at me.
"That is quite enough." Iris's voice cut through the air like a silver blade.
She turned to the three men.
"Lord Caspian, Lord Leonardo, Lord Tristan," Iris said, her tone leaving zero room for argument. "The heat of the ballroom seems to have severely affected your tempers. Please excuse yourselves and get some air before you embarrass yourselves further."
The three men froze. They couldn't argue with the Princess of the Empire. Humiliated and completely broken, they offered stiff, trembling bows and practically sprinted out of the circle, disappearing into the crowd.
Iris turned her piercing golden gaze to me.
"You are turning my family's Founder's Gala into a circus with your jokes, Axel Wiezner." Iris warned, her voice low and dangerous.
I offered her a flawless, sweeping bow, not breaking eye contact for a millisecond.
"A circus requires clowns, Your Highness." I replied, a wicked, charismatic smile touching my lips.
"I merely provided the mirror."
"They applied the makeup themselves."
"You speak of the Empire's nobility as if they are toys for your amusement, Wiezner," Iris said, her voice dropping into a cold, viper-like hiss. "You tread a very thin line between boldness and treason."
"Treason is such an ugly word, Princess Iris," I replied respectfully, though my tone carried a razor-sharp wit. "I prefer to call it dynamic social restructuring. I assure you, my respect for the crown is absolute."
"You think you are clever, like a snake hiding in the grass," Iris narrowed her golden eyes, radiating hostility. "But insulting Dukes and heirs in public will only isolate you. No one respects a court jester."
I didn't flinch. Instead, I turned smoothly to the audience of noblewomen beside me.
"A jester?" I asked, placing a hand over my heart. "Ladies, do you feel I am isolating myself? Am I merely a clown?"
"Not at all," Catherine replied immediately, her sharp eyes glinting. "You are incredibly perceptive. And honestly... Caspian deserved it."
"You were very funny," Bianca added softly, a rare smile on her face. "It's the most I've laughed in years."
"He is charming, Your Highness," Violetta chimed in, stepping slightly closer to me. "We certainly do not mind his company or his jokes."
Iris's expression grew even colder. "Fools are easily entertained by bright colors and loud noises. Do not mistake their fleeting amusement for genuine loyalty, Axel."
"I would never dream of it, Your Highness," I bowed my head slightly. "But a genuine smile is much prettier than a scowl, wouldn't you agree?"
Before Iris could deliver a lethal verbal riposte, the crowd shifted. The nobles parted like the Red Sea, making way for a new arrival.
"Oh, so you're the one causing all this commotion."
Princess Seraphina Valentine stepped into the light. Her chocolate-brown hair falling in perfect waves. She possessed a radiant, sun-kissed charm that instantly warmed the room, her striking emerald-green eyes locking onto mine with casual curiosity. She carried none of Iris's hostility.
"I heard your speech earlier on the balcony," Seraphina smiled, her voice a disarming, charismatic melody. "It was... quite passionate."
"Princess Seraphina," I offered a sweeping, flawless bow, turning my charm up to the absolute maximum. "The tales of your breathtaking beauty are vastly understated. The Empire truly does not do you justice."
"Flattery so soon?" Seraphina tilted her head, her smile widening. "You really are a fast worker. Most boys stumble over their words when they meet me."
"I am not most boys, Your Highness." I replied smoothly. "I merely speak the objective truth when I see it."
"Sera, do not engage with him." Iris interjected sharply, glaring at me. "He is a troublemaker seeking attention, nothing more."
"Oh, relax, Iris." Seraphina dismissed her sister with a light wave of her hand. "He isn't hurting anyone."
"Thank you, Princess." I said respectfully. "Your sister sees me as a threat to the natural order of boredom in this room."
"She is just protective of the Gala's reputation." Seraphina replied, analyzing me with high-EQ precision. "But I must admit, you are quite interesting."
"He is a manipulative commoner playing noble games, Sera." Iris warned, her voice tight.
"If he is playing games, he is winning them." Seraphina countered effortlessly, turning her attention back to me. "He has a sense of humor, which is quite remarkable in this stuffy ballroom."
"I aim to please the crown in all my endeavors." I said, flashing a dashing smile.
"I'm sure you do." Seraphina's eyes drifted past me. "And who is this... King fellow?"
I glanced over my shoulder. Axel was staring at Seraphina, his mouth slightly open, his eyes wide. He looked like he was absolutely drowning in her beauty, instantly falling in love.
"I-I am King!" Axel suddenly puffed out his chest, stepping forward and bragging with maximum street-confidence. "An upcoming Beyonder Mage! The Grand Magus of the Northern Abyss, Conqueror of the Seventh Dimension, and Master of the Hidden Arts!"
Seraphina looked at him, completely amused. "Beyonders? I heard they are much older. But you look about my age."
I saw Axel sweating.
Oh shit... his wide eyes screamed at me. I'm not the same height as kaiser, and I have a high-pitched voice! They're gonna find out!
Time to rescue bro.
"Princess Seraphina, please forgive him." I stepped in, my face a mask of absolute, heartbreaking tragedy. "It is a very sad tale. You see... it happened in his mother's womb."
The entire circle of nobles gasped in shock.
"Yes." I nodded grimly. "He was born at a very young age."
Iris raised a sharp eyebrow, staring at me like I was insane. "Everyone is born at a young age, you absolute idiot."
"Not like this!" I argued passionately. "You see, his mother consumed a massive, unprecedented amount of enchanted mangoes during her pregnancy. The mana from the mangoes reacted violently! It stunted his physical growth permanently!"
"He looks like a kid because he is a kid," Iris stated coldly, folding her arms. "He is obviously lying about his achievements and his supposed Beyonder status."
"Lying?!" I roared defensively, pointing at Axel. "HE IS THE AGE OF MY FATHER!"
Axel jumped. "I am?!"
"There, guys! He said it himself!" I shouted triumphantly, gesturing to the crowd.
"What absolute nonsense." Iris sneered in disgust. "That is obviously a lie."
"Have you ever heard of plastic surgery, Your Highness?" I asked, lowering my voice to a dramatic whisper.
"Plastic what?"
"We had to put five kilograms of premium Asura plastic into his face!" I declared loudly. "He looks 15, but he is actually 45 years old!"
"Yeah!" Axel caught on immediately, rolling with the lie. "It was a tragic accident! My face completely melted off!"
"Exactly!" I added, shaking my head sorrowfully. "It took three healers and a lot of glue to put him back together! He is a medical miracle!"
The sheer, unrestrained absurdity of the lie-stacking broke the entire circle. The crowd of nobles burst into a massive roar of laughter. Even Seraphina had to cover her mouth with her hand, her shoulders shaking as she giggled uncontrollably.
"He never ceases to make everyone laugh!" Violetta commented, wiping a tear of mirth from her eye. "This is brilliant!"
"You are entirely ridiculous, Axel." Seraphina laughed, her emerald eyes sparkling with genuine amusement. "But I must admit, it is incredibly entertaining."
I turned my full attention back to her, my expression softening into something far more charming and intimate.
"I am glad we could bring a smile to the Beauty of Asura." I said softly. "In fact, seeing you smile makes the music in this ballroom sound a little sweeter."
"More poetry?" Seraphina asked, raising a delicate eyebrow. "You are relentless."
"Only when confronted with absolute perfection." I replied smoothly. "I have heard whispers that you love to dance. Would you grant me the honor of your hand?" I dropped into a flawless, elegant bow, offering her my palm.
"Sera, decline." Iris ordered instantly, glaring at me. "You have rejected lords of far higher standing tonight. Do not lower yourself to this jester."
Seraphina looked at my outstretched hand, then back to my eyes.
"Iris makes a fair point, Axel." Seraphina noted smoothly. "Why should I dance with you? Especially when you boldly proclaimed that Princess Rose's dance is for the continent itself?"
"Because, Princess..." I stepped slightly closer, my voice dropping into a magnetic, intimate register. "Your eyes alone are enough to make the entire world stop and stare."
"Is that all I am to you?" Seraphina challenged, though she seemed intrigued. "A beautiful centerpiece?"
"I am saying I am a selfish man." I confessed openly, my gaze locking onto hers.
"I want to take some of that incredible attention that your beauty brings, simply by dancing beside you."
Seraphina's eyes widened slightly in genuine surprise.
"Selfish desire." she murmured softly. "How refreshingly honest of you. Most men pretend they only care about my personality."
"I care about both." I replied, my smile unwavering. "But I hide nothing from you, Your Highness. Will you accept my selfish request?"
"I might." Seraphina smiled, the warmth returning to her face. "But can you keep up with me on the floor?"
"I promise to match your every step." I vowed confidently. "I might even surprise you."
"You have surprised me all evening." Seraphina said, gracefully placing her delicate, gloved hand into mine. "Very well. Lead the way, Axel Wiezner."
"The honor is entirely mine, Princess," I murmured.
"Sera, you are making a grave mistake," Iris warned coldly, her golden eyes flashing with anger.
I didn't say a word. I simply looked at Princess Iris and offered her a slow, victorious smirk.
Holding Seraphina's hand, I turned and led her toward the center of the grand ballroom. The crowd of nobles instantly parted for us, making a wide, clear path. Whispers erupted like wildfire. The Princess who had rejected countless high-ranking heirs all evening was now walking to the floor with the absolute anomaly of the party.
We reached the center of the polished marble floor. The classical orchestra shifted seamlessly into a slow, elegant waltz.
I placed my right hand gently on Seraphina's waist, feeling the fine silk of her gown, while she rested her left hand lightly on my shoulder. Our clasped hands raised to the perfect etiquette height.
As the music swelled, we moved.
I guided her into the first sweeping turn, our steps perfectly synchronized. Seraphina moved with the grace of a swan, her blue gown flaring out like a blossoming flower with every rotation. I maintained a strong, elegant frame, ensuring she remained the absolute center of attention, just as I had promised.
We glided across the marble, spinning through the sea of nobles, our movements so fluid and precise it looked as though we had been dancing together for years.
But beneath the flawless exterior, I realized something immediately.
"You're holding back, Axel." Seraphina whispered, her emerald eyes locking onto mine as we spun.
"I am merely ensuring I do not step on your dress, Princess," I replied smoothly, though I was genuinely a half-step behind her. Her footwork was terrifyingly perfect.
"You're reacting to my tempo," Seraphina noted, a playful, challenging spark in her eyes. "Let me lead."
Before I could protest, she shifted her weight. The dynamic flipped instantly. She pulled me into a faster, more complex rotation, forcing me to abandon my polite, measured steps and actively keep up with her breathtaking pace. The distance between us closed, the dance becoming far more intimate, far more intense.
Every single eye in the ballroom was glued to us.
"I must admit, I am quite envious of my sister," Seraphina murmured, her breath ghosting against my ear as we executed a sharp, spinning dip.
"Envious?" I asked, pulling her back up seamlessly. "You are the beauty of the Empire. What could you possibly envy?"
"Rose has a follower like you," she replied, her eyes searching my face. "Someone willing to insult Dukes, rival the court's hierarchy, and paint a massive target on his own back just to entertain her."
"I am not her follower, Seraphina." I corrected her softly, spinning her out and pulling her right back against my chest. "I am simply a man who dislikes boredom."
"Then let us make sure you aren't bored." Seraphina smiled, her eyes flashing.
The orchestra seemed to catch onto our escalating intensity, the violins speeding up, the music swelling into a rapid, sweeping crescendo. We flew across the floor, our steps blurring together in a flawless, intimate whirlwind.
*
High above the ballroom floor, on the raised royal dais, Consort Anastasia Mooncrest clapped her hands brightly. Her expressive emerald eyes shone with unrestrained delight as she watched her daughter spin across the marble.
"Look at them! Oh, he has such wonderful footwork!" Anastasia cheered, entirely uncaring of the rigid, frozen decorum the other nobles strictly adhered to.
A few feet away, Empress Rosaline Valentine sat in absolute, terrifying silence. Her icy blue eyes were fixed on the dancing pair, glaring with a suppressed, lethal intensity.
What is he intending to do? Rosaline thought, her knuckles turning white as she gripped the armrest of her throne. Why is he dancing with Anastasia's daughter?
"He certainly knows how to take everyone's breath away." Emperor Noctis noted, watching the floor.
"He is doing exactly what he needs to do." Rosaline replied, her voice dangerously tight.
"Indeed." Noctis smiled faintly. "And it seems even Seraphina's beauty has reached him, compelling him to dance with her."
"What absolute rubbish." Rosaline snapped, her glare sharpening. "My son will never fall for any superficial beauty."
Noctis raised a slow eyebrow, turning to look at his Empress. "Oh? And why are you so certain of that, Rosaline?"
"Because I know him." Rosaline answered with absolute, unyielding conviction.
"You know him?" Noctis mused, his tone dripping with skepticism. "You met the boy a mere hour ago."
"Some bonds do not require time to understand, Noctis." Rosaline said coldly.
She turned her gaze back to the ballroom floor. But as her eyes swept past the dancing couple, she noticed movement at the far end of the hall. The heavy, gilded brass doors were slowly creaking open.
Rosaline's breath hitched.
"...Oh..." Rosaline whispered, her icy eyes widening in sudden horror.
*
The music hit its final, sweeping note.
I pulled Seraphina into a deep, flawless dip, freezing perfectly as the final chord echoed through the grand hall. For a split second, there was total silence.
Then, the entire ballroom erupted into thunderous, overwhelming applause.
"Not half bad, Axel." Seraphina complimented, breathing slightly heavily as I pulled her back to her feet. "Usually, only my teacher and my mother can keep up with me at that tempo. It seems I severely underestimated your dancing skill."
"I promised I would match your every step, Your Highness." I replied, my own chest heaving slightly.
Without breaking eye contact, I leaned down, took her delicate, gloved hand in mine, and pressed a soft, lingering kiss to the top of her knuckles.
Seraphina's emerald eyes widened slightly, a sudden, very genuine flush rising to her cheeks. She was used to endless flattery, but the sheer, confident intimacy of the gesture in front of the entire court clearly caught her off guard. She looked thoroughly, undeniably pleased.
We stood up, stepping apart as the applause began to die down. Near the edge of the floor, I saw Iris watching us. She was forcing a polite smile, though her eyes promised absolute violence.
But then, I realized something was wrong.
The applause hadn't just died down. It had been completely suffocated. A new sound was rapidly filling the vacuum—the sound of intense, frantic whispering spreading like wildfire across the noble crowd.
I turned my head, tuning into the murmurs rippling through the people closest to us.
"Is that Princess Rose?"
"Why has she returned? I thought she retired to her chambers for the evening."
"Did she just see him dancing with Princess Seraphina?"
"The anomaly... Axel Wiezner... he boldly proclaimed his dance was for her, but gave it to her sister."
"How utterly humiliating for the First Princess."
"He played her for an absolute fool just to gain social standing."
"I knew a commoner couldn't be trusted. He went straight for the prettier sister."
"Look at her face. She looks completely devastated."
My stomach plummeted into an icy, bottomless abyss.
I turned my head slowly back toward the grand gates of the ballroom.
Standing there, framed by the towering archway, was Princess Rose.
She stood perfectly still, her hands trembling slightly at her sides. Her eyes were locked directly onto me, wide and hollow.
She had watched it all.
I messed up... I thought I had time.
*
[Perspective: Princess Rose Valentine]
The heavy brass doors felt like ice against my palms as I pushed them open.
I had come back down. I shouldn't have. I should have stayed in my chambers, wrapped in that fragile, fluttery hope he had given me. For the first time in my entire life, I had felt completely safe. I had a brother. Someone who stood between me and the crushing weight of the Empire.
Someone who looked at my hollow soul and didn't leave.
I just wanted my brother to have his focus on me. Just me.
The doors gave way, and the acoustic dampening field of the hallway vanished.
The grand ballroom didn't greet me with silence, but it didn't greet me with the polite, structured murmurs of the court either. The music had just ended. The applause was deafening, thunderous, shaking the crystal chandeliers above.
My eyes instinctively searched the center of the marble floor, looking for the flash of his black and crimson stash.
I found him.
My breath caught in my throat. It didn't just catch; it vanished entirely. The air in my lungs turned to shattered glass.
He was standing in the very center of the floor, bathed in the golden light. And standing right in front of him, her delicate hand held gently in his, was Seraphina. He was leaning down, pressing a lingering, intimate kiss to the top of her knuckles. Seraphina's cheeks were flushed, her emerald eyes shining with a radiant, effortless joy.
My hands began to tremble. I tried to curl them into fists, to summon my mana, to do anything to calm the sudden, violent shaking in my fingers, but I couldn't.
A cold, creeping numbness started at the base of my neck and rushed down my spine. The edges of my vision blurred, the vibrant gold and blue of the ballroom darkening into shadows. My pupils dilated so fast it physically hurt. A high-pitched ringing pierced my ears, drowning out the applause.
He is dancing with her.
The brother I thought only cared for me. The one who had taken my side, who had wiped my tears and promised I wouldn't carry the humiliation alone. The moment I left the room, he was dancing with the prettier sister.
My legs moved on their own. One step forward. Then another. Moving mechanically through the parting crowd of nobles.
Why?
The question echoed in the hollow, empty cavern of my chest.
Why is it always my fault?
I felt the familiar, suffocating weight of my own inadequacy crushing my ribs. I'm sorry...? my mind whispered frantically, a desperate, pathetic mantra I couldn't stop. I'm sorry that I look the way I do. I'm sorry for trying to talk about my feelings. I'm sorry that apparently, everything is my fault. I don't try to be like this. I'm sorry that my presence is toxic, that I am too rigid, too broken.
I had bottled everything up for years. I kept my emotions perfectly hidden behind a flawless mask. Of course it was unhealthy, did they think I didn't know that? But I didn't want to be weak. I swore I would never be weak. Nothing would make me feel shittier than people having to worry about me.
But I had dropped the mask for him. I had let him see me.
I was vulnerable, and I had let my guard down.
And now, he was holding her hand.
Do you even know what this feels like? I stared at the side of his face as I walked closer, the distance closing agonizingly slowly. To be so fucking lost while the entire world seems to have a map that they won't let you even glimpse at? You were holding that map, Kaiser. And you dangled it in front of my face, only to give it to her.
Seraphina knew how to be loved effortlessly.
I just overthink a lot. It causes me to miss out on a lot of good things. I wish I could be like her—so confident she can just walk up to anyone and be adored. But you have to break through walls of ice to see how I actually am. I'm one of those people who just hold onto a few people, who don't let anyone else in. And overthinking everything I say just makes me sad at the end of the day.
I'm not perfect. I never will be.
I'm sorry that I'm not good enough for you, I thought, my vision swimming as the tears I refused to shed burned the back of my eyes. But you need to realize every girl you find is going to have some kind of flaw. Seraphina's flaws are beautiful. Mine are just exhausting.
If girls think you're that good of a man, they'll try and try their hardest to make you happy. They'll try to get your attention and be what you want. But I'm not like that. I didn't want to perform for you.
I just wanted my brother...
That's the worst part of pretending you're strong all the time. When you finally break, no one gives a flying fuck about how you feel.
I wanted to run up to him. I wanted to scream at him. I told myself to ask him why.
Why did he choose her? Why was he looking at her like that?
But I already knew the truth. There was no other reason.
Because she was prettier than me.
Because she was vibrant, and warm, and uncomplicated. Because she didn't come with the baggage of a hollow soul and a broken crown.
Why else? After the promise he made me? After the way he held me just minutes ago?
I am so sick of all of this. I am so tired of taking the hard road. I want him to come back to me. I don't want to fucking be alone anymore.
The crowd parted fully.
I stepped into the clearing around the dance floor.
Kaiser turned his head. His eyes met mine. I saw the immediate, visceral flash of dread cross his face. He knew I had seen.
My heart was bleeding out onto the marble floor, but the Princess of the Asura Empire did not bleed in public. I forced the muscles in my face to obey me. I locked the agony behind a vault of pure ice, raising my chin and curving my lips into a polite smile.
I looked at my brother, and then at the radiant sister holding his hand.
"You two look good together."
I'm just a stupid, insecure girl playing the role of a perfect princess.