The music flowed melodiously, and the candlelight was romantic.
The banquet entered its next stage. In the dance floor at the center of the hall, many men and women began taking partners and dancing passionately.
Except for Tales.
"No, my lady. Your bold sincerity has dazzled me and brightened this banquet."
In his seat, facing a young, lively, adorable noble girl in the prime of her youth, Tales spoke stiffly polite words—ones that could probably only fool Eda:
"But my identity is sensitive, and this matter is of great importance. I cannot act recklessly."
"Especially the first dance after my return. Whoever I dance with, it would be unfair, and the others would feel resentful."
Out of the corner of his eye, Tales noticed Marius had finished speaking with several subordinates and was walking toward him.
The Watcher's eyes held both urgency and wariness. Tales understood the meaning:
Hurry up.
"So, for the stability and balance of the kingdom, and for the prosperity and peace of the Star Kingdom..."
Tales braced himself. He gazed kindly into the girl's sparkling eyes, gently gathering her hand in his while suppressing his contempt for himself:
"I can only endure tremendous grief and give up the wonderful chance to dance with you."
"It breaks my heart."
The girl before him bit her lower lip. Her eyes were full of grievance, and she looked deeply hurt.
But with a hint of indignation, she lifted her skirt and curtsied. After casting Tales a sorrowful glance, she turned and left.
There was no dragging her feet, yet she remained graceful and charming.
It was enough to make people look aside.
Tales let out a sigh of relief, feeling utterly exhausted.
She was the ninth lady to invite him onto the dance floor that evening, and the forty-fourth