The last notes of Eleanor Soros's Fire Fantasy Sonata still lingered in the air. Warm applause and praise surged around her like a tide, gratifying her pride and vanity. Like a victorious queen, she stood beneath the spotlight, basking in everyone's attention. But when the corner of her eye caught Leon Hohenzollern still leaning alone against the wall, his expression unreadable, the anger and desire for revenge that the music had just suppressed rose again like a venomous snake.
That good-for-nothing! He had nearly made her lose her composure in front of everyone! That fool had sullied tonight's banquet with his pathetic performance and shabby gift! Even if Eliza's icy reaction had made her miss her chance to strike, she had to take her anger out on the real culprit!
A malicious thought took shape in her mind in an instant. Her face still wore a bright smile, but her emerald eyes locked onto Leon in the corner like perfectly aimed arrows. Her voice carried a tone of feigned surprise and innocence, ringing clearly through the hall, which had only just quieted down.
"Oh! Speaking of which, tonight's performances have been truly wonderful! Little Sister Eliza's magic was breathtaking, and I also had the honor of playing a piece. But—" She deliberately drew out the word, successfully turning everyone's attention toward Leon. "It seems we've overlooked someone very important!"
Everyone followed her gaze and saw Leon's face turn deathly pale.
Eleanor's smile grew sweeter—and more malicious. "Young Master Leon Hohenzollern! You're Little Sister Eliza's fiancé, and one of tonight's two stars! I've heard that Young Master Hohenzollern is... well... 'quite experienced,' and often visits those... refined 'music salons' and 'halls of art.'" She emphasized those words, drawing a knowing ripple of laughter. "I'm sure your appreciation of music and... practical