Following Vincent's captivating performance, the grand ballroom was buzzing with new life. The cheers had gradually subsided to be replaced by the subdued murmur of animated discussions and admiring looks. Vincent, however, remained unfazed in the face of the crowd's joy, his expression composed as though he had expected every response. His gaze flickered around the space before returning to Emelia Rose.
Emelia hadn't moved from her spot, her green eyes gleaming with a clear hint of curiosity and maybe even more: a wish to know what Vincent's real motivations were. With a soft smile on her lips, she walked slowly in his direction so that Vincent would have plenty of time to recognize her.
As she eventually arrived at Vincent, she said, "Quite the grand show," her voice even sounding a little playful. "But I have a feeling you're not here just to entertain us."
With a casual smile on his lips, Vincent turned to face her, raising one eyebrow slightly. "Emelia, my goal is to keep everyone in the dark. Everything is enjoyable in its own right.
She kept her eyes fixed on him, her intensity never wavering. You've never been easy to read. However, this evening..." Vincent was intrigued by her comments because she left them hanging.
"This evening?"
There seems to be more going on than meets the eye. With a mixture of admiration and suspicion, Emelia softened her tone and said, "It's in your movements, your confidence—it's as if you're carrying a secret far heavier than anyone here could imagine."
Though his eyes darkened slightly, amused by her acute intuition, Vincent laughed softly. A reminder of the power he now possessed, the System's presence pulsed softly in his mind.
[System Alert: Potential Partner] Found: Emelia Rose
[Assessing her situation]
[Final Assessment: Emelia Rose, a distinguished lady with considerable impact. She has extensive connections among the elite of Avalonia and exhibits extraordinary political acumen.]
[Warning: This material contains both potentially harmful and highly perceptive content. Proceed with caution."
Vincent never showed signs of worry, but he took note of the System's analysis in his mind. The stakes were higher than ever, but Emelia had always been astute. Whether she developed into a useful ally or a danger to his ascent would depend on his next move.
"Don't you think that secrets are what really make life interesting?" He answered with a smooth tone that was barely audible to her.
Sensing there was more going on, Emelia squinted her eyes. "So, a secret that's worth protecting?"
Vincent lowered his voice as he leaned in a little. Maybe. However, Emelia, you are aware of the way things work. It all comes down to timing.
She cocked her head, her eyes momentarily darting over his shoulder to take in the remaining guests. She asked, her tone changing, "And what about Duke Renford?" "You had a significant impact on him. However, I have to admit that I haven't seen him act so quietly in a long time. Specifically, what did you do to him?
Vincent's smile grew wider. "All I did was give him a hint of what was coming. More will become visible eventually.
Emelia moved in closer, her voice hardly audible above a whisper. "What game are you playing, Vincent? I have no idea, but it looks like it's larger than this room. What you have planned entails more than just political power, isn't that right?
Vincent was prompted to carefully consider his next words as the System began to pulse once more.
[System Alert: Critical Situation Emelia Rose's trust is beginning to wane. If you reveal too much about her, she might turn against you. Should you disclose too little, she might stop supporting you.]
Vincent released a calm, deliberate breath. He had a gut feeling that caution was advised, but he couldn't let this opportunity pass. Emelia needed to be on his team.
"It's about time for Avalonia to have a change," he said slowly as his eyes met hers. There's a new era coming up. The level of power we are accustomed to is only the start.
For a considerable amount of time, Emelia observed him closely, her mouth tightening as she thought. "And you plan to be at the epicenter of this shift,' are you not?"
Vincent smiled at her, a confident but enigmatic smile. My aim is to guarantee that the Amsberg name endures for an extended period of time. When that moment comes, I would rather have people I can trust by my side.
Even though there was a flicker of something in Emelia's eyes, her expression stayed neutral. And why, Vincent, should I put my faith in you? Strength can be ephemeral.
[System Notification: Trust Status is Critical. Win Emelia Rose over to your cause.]
With a determined expression, Vincent stood up straight. I'm not interested in the transient, in contrast to the other people in this room. The eternal is something that interests me. Nobility in Avalonia could ever imagine the heights to which those who stand with me will ascend.
Emelia's mask moved slightly for the first time. She gave off the impression of being sincerely curious, even tempted. "And for someone like me, what precisely does that mean?"
With a step toward him, Vincent brought tension into the air between them. It implies that you will have an opportunity to influence Avalonia's—our—future, Emelia. You have never satisfied yourself with just participating in politics. I'm presenting actual power.
Although there was a cautious edge to her expression, her eyes glistened with interest. "Vincent, you paint an incredibly alluring picture, but it sounds risky."
The smile on Vincent's face darkened. "What's worth having is everything."
The world appeared to shrink to just the two of them as the room around them vanished into the distance. Emelia was having trouble breathing and her thoughts were racing as she considered her options.
She finally responded, her tone grave, "I'll think about it." However, don't take my caution to mean that I'm hesitant. Before I commit completely, I'll need evidence.
Feeling content with her response for the time being, Vincent nodded. "It will be yours."
[System notification: Emelia Rose's trust level has increased by 20%]
Vincent sensed the System's presence hum subtly in the background as Emelia stepped back, her poise completely restored.
[Quest Update: Secure Powerful Allies: Emelia Rose's participation remains uncertain. What you do at this gala could influence her choice.]
A well-known voice emerged from the murmurs of the audience just as Vincent was about to focus his attention once more on the remainder of the ballroom.
Yes, Vincent, you are there. What an impressive show you put on tonight.
Vincent looked up to see Duke Renford coming toward him. He had an unreadable expression, but there was a tinge of challenge in his eyes. Vincent realized there were still pieces on this board that needed to be moved, and the evening wasn't yet over.
However, Vincent felt confident because Emelia's possible alliance was approaching and he could never forget the System's guidance. It was just getting started tonight.
A cunning grin came back to Vincent's lips as he watched the Duke draw near. The game was beginning to take on some interest.