After the three formal dances ended and the guests were free to do as they pleased, Count Altair received invitations to dance from noble youths from all sides. Out of courtesy, she did not refuse.
After all, they had come to show their support. If she kept turning them down, what would that look like?
Moreover, once a noble young lady entered the ballroom, she was considered to be "accepting invitations." Unless she remained seated in the rest area chatting with her female companions, mother, or friends, or was feeling unwell, she could not refuse a gentleman's invitation in principle.
After her previous partner escorted Count Altair back to her place, she had just turned to leave the dance floor for the rest area and replenish her energy when Grellint, who had been standing nearby, hurried over. Looking troubled, he asked, "May I have the honor of inviting you to dance, Count Altair?"
Seeing this, Count Altair glanced behind him and found many noble youths watching Grellint with expressions of mockery, ridicule, and encouragement. She therefore smiled and readily replied, "The honor is mine."
As soon as she finished speaking, Count Altair extended her left hand and let Grellint lead her back onto the dance floor. As the music resumed, they began to dance gracefully.
For the time being, Count Altair had no intention of casting aside this useless tool. After all, Grellint's status was there for all to see. No matter how poorly he was doing, he was still a noble and would surely be useful someday.
To maintain their social relationship, Count Altair did not mind giving him a little sweetness—for example, letting him hold his head high in front of his other friends.
"Have you attended that Extraordinary Gathering recently?" Grellint suddenly asked.
Count Altair slowed