Third Arc (Fallen Heart) - 367. Duty Calls
The moment didn't last as long as either of them would have liked. The sound of footsteps approaching the door. A soft knock followed, and a servant's voice filtered through. "Your Majesties, the guests have started arriving. The party is about to begin."
Rose sighed, reluctantly shifting from her comfortable spot on Angel's lap. "Duty calls," she murmured, her voice carrying a mix of humor and resignation.
Angel helped her up, his hands lingering for just a moment longer than necessary before he stood as well. "Ready to smile and charm a room full of people?" he asked, his smirk faint but teasing.
"As ready as I'll ever be," she replied, adjusting the layers of her gown and smoothing out the fabric. "What about you? Do you have one of your plans brewing already?"
Angel's smirk widened slightly. "Always."
Rose gave him a knowing look but didn't press further. She had learned by now that Angel always played his cards close to his chest, especially when it came to politics and strategy. He'd tell her what she needed to know when the time was right.
The grand ballroom was already buzzing with life by the time they arrived. Nobles from Euphorion and dignitaries from neighboring kingdoms filled the space, their laughter and chatter creating a lively hum that reverberated off the high ceilings. The scent of rich food and sweet wine hung in the air, mingling with the faint notes of music being played by a small orchestra in the corner.
Angel scanned the room, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. He recognized most of the faces—familiar allies, occasional rivals, and those who hovered somewhere in between. His expression remained calm, composed, but his mind was already at work. The delegation from the Kingdom of Pontus was his main target tonight. He wanted to visit their kingdom, but he didn't want to make it to obvious. But first, there was the matter of ensuring there were no further attempts on their lives.
Rose stayed close to his side, her own gaze scanning the crowd. She smiled and exchanged pleasantries with those who approached, but Angel could tell her mind was elsewhere. "Spot anyone interesting yet?" she asked under her breath, her lips barely moving as she leaned slightly toward him.
"Pontus delegation is near the west table," Angel replied just as quietly. "They're keeping to themselves, for now. That's my main focus tonight."
"And the assassins?" she asked, her tone dropping slightly.
"Already being watched," he said with a faint edge to his voice. "The Black Devils are stationed strategically around the room. If anything happens, they'll handle it."
Rose nodded, her confidence in Angel's plan steadying her nerves. "Just… be careful, okay?"
"I always am," he said, his smirk returning briefly before he turned his attention toward the west side of the room.
The delegation from Pontus was an interesting group. Their leader, a sharp-eyed man in his mid-forties, was dressed in fine silks that hinted at his kingdom's wealth and influence. He stood with a few advisors, their quiet conversation a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere around them. Angel recognized him immediately—Duke Cassian, a key figure in Pontus politics and someone known for his strategic mind.
Angel observed him from a distance, his expression calm but thoughtful. The party had just started, and he knew better than to make the first move. As king, protocol dictated that the duke should approach him, not the other way around. It wasn't arrogance—it was simply the unspoken rules of diplomacy.
"I guess I should wait for the right moment," Angel murmured under his breath, his gaze never leaving the duke. He leaned slightly toward Chancellor Allan, who stood nearby. "When the time is right, summon him."
The chancellor nodded, his expression composed. "As you wish, Your Majesty."
Rose, standing close to Angel's side, caught the low exchange. She tilted her head slightly, her gaze flicking between him and the delegation. "You're playing the long game, aren't you?" she asked, her tone light but curious.
"Always," Angel replied, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Duke Cassian is too sharp to miss the significance of being summoned directly. It sets the tone for any future discussions."
Rose arched a brow, her lips curving into a small smile. "And here I thought this party was just about fine wine and awkward dancing."
"Not when I'm involved," Angel quipped, his eyes glinting with humor. "You know me better than that."
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