The Autumn Ball was the social event of the year at Crimson Imperial Academy. The grand hall was transformed into a spectacle of opulence, with enchanted chandeliers casting a warm glow over the polished marble floors. Nobles in their finest attire mingled, their laughter and chatter filling the air. The scent of roses and expensive perfumes mingled with the faint undertone of magic, creating an atmosphere that was both intoxicating and suffocating.
I stood at the edge of the room, blending into the shadows as I kept a watchful eye on Seraphine. She was the center of attention, as always, her crimson gown shimmering like liquid fire. Her silver hair was styled into an intricate updo, adorned with ruby pins that caught the light with every movement. She moved through the crowd with the grace of a predator, her violet eyes scanning for weaknesses to exploit.
My role was simple: stay close enough to intervene if needed but remain invisible. It was a delicate balance, one that required constant vigilance.
"Lockhart."
I turned to see Lady Clarisse D'Argent approaching, her golden curls bouncing with every step. She was the epitome of noble beauty, with her porcelain skin and sapphire eyes. In the game, she had been the "Sweet Saintess," a rival to both Seraphine and Liana.
"Yes, my lady?" I asked, bowing slightly.
She smiled, though it didn't reach her eyes. "I couldn't help but notice your performance earlier. Quite impressive for a commoner."
"Thank you, my lady," I replied, keeping my tone neutral.
Her gaze lingered on me, her expression unreadable. "Tell me, Lockhart, do you enjoy serving Lady Seraphine?"
I hesitated, sensing a trap. "It's an honor to serve House Valois."
She chuckled, a sound as sweet as it was hollow. "Of course. But if you ever find yourself… dissatisfied, my door is always open."
Before I could respond, she glided away, leaving me with a sense of unease. Great. Another noble trying to poach me.
The sound of a fanfare interrupted my thoughts, drawing everyone's attention to the entrance. Crown Prince Cedric strode in, his presence commanding the room. He was dressed in a tailored black-and-gold uniform, his blonde hair gleaming under the chandeliers.
"Ladies and gentlemen," he announced, his voice carrying effortlessly. "Welcome to the Autumn Ball. May tonight be a celebration of unity and prosperity for our great empire."
The crowd erupted in applause, though I noticed a few nobles exchanging wary glances. Cedric's charm was undeniable, but his ambition was equally apparent.
As the music began, couples took to the dance floor. Seraphine was immediately surrounded by suitors, each vying for her attention. She entertained them with practiced ease, her smile sharp enough to cut glass.
I scanned the room, my eyes landing on Liana. She stood near the refreshments table, looking out of place in her simple dress. Her hands clutched a glass of punch, her gaze darting nervously around the room.
Game Knowledge: In the original timeline, Liana's first dance at the ball was with Duke Roland Vayne, marking the beginning of their romance. But with my interference, things might play out differently.
As if on cue, Roland approached her, his knightly demeanor softened by a warm smile. "May I have this dance, Miss Hart?"
Liana's eyes widened, her cheeks flushing. "I… I'm not sure I know how, my lord."
"Allow me to teach you," he said, offering his hand.
She hesitated, glancing around as if seeking permission. Her eyes met mine, and for a moment, I saw a flicker of desperation.
Damn it.
I stepped forward, intercepting Roland before he could lead her to the dance floor. "My lord, if I may?"
He raised an eyebrow, his smile fading. "Yes?"
"Miss Hart is under Lady Seraphine's protection," I said, keeping my tone respectful but firm. "It would be improper for her to dance without my lady's consent."
Roland's expression darkened, but he nodded. "Of course. My apologies."
As he walked away, Liana looked at me with a mixture of gratitude and confusion. "Why did you do that?"
"Because," I said quietly, "this world isn't kind to commoners who rise too quickly. Be careful who you trust."
She nodded, though her eyes remained troubled.
Before I could say more, a commotion drew my attention. A tall, dark-haired man had entered the hall, his presence immediately commanding attention. He was dressed in a sleek black suit, his emerald-green eyes scanning the room with a predatory gleam.
New Character Unlocked:
Lord Lucien Blackthorn: A mysterious noble from the northern territories. Known for his cunning and ruthlessness.
Seraphine's gaze locked onto him, her smile widening. "Lord Blackthorn," she purred, gliding toward him. "What a pleasant surprise."
"Lady Seraphine," he replied, his voice smooth as silk. "The pleasure is mine."
I frowned, my instincts screaming. This wasn't in the game.
As the two began to dance, I noticed Cedric watching them from across the room, his expression unreadable.
Hidden Quest Updated:
Objective: Investigate Lord Lucien Blackthorn's intentions.
Reward: ???
Fantastic. Another mystery to unravel.
End of Chapter 4