"Sorry we're late."
Annan and the Princess entered the banquet hall.
Magic lamps studded the lofty ceiling like brilliant stars in the night sky, bathing the hall in a soft glow. Musicians played in a corner, their lilting melody sounding like a variation on "My Heart Will Go On."
The true movers and shakers were scattered throughout the hall. The tables held delicacies even Annan had never heard of.
The Deputy City Lord stood by the entrance like a doorman, greeting arriving guests.
When he saw the Princess in a gray robe, a ribbon over her eyes and her long gray hair trailing along the floor as she held Annan's arm, he paused. "What happened to the Princess?"
"She isn't feeling well, but this banquet is important."
With the False Princess kidnapped, Annan had no choice but to have the real Princess play herself...
"It certainly is important..." The Deputy City Lord concealed his feelings and glanced at Idelia beside him. "And this is?"
"My sister, Idelia Reeves, Deputy City Lord of Free City."
"Hello, Miss Idelia." The Deputy City Lord nodded, then looked up at Annan. "Tonight's banquet should be interesting..."
"I'm looking forward to it."
Annan and the Deputy City Lord each wore a smile. Once the Deputy City Lord left, Annan's gaze turned to the women attending the banquet...
In his eyes, they looked like statues built from stacks of gold coins...
"Go ahead. I'll stay with the Princess," Idelia said considerately.
"All right."
Annan left the Princess with Idelia and approached the dining tables.
Given how popular "The Mage Tower's Fall" was in Flower Capital, he was sure someone would strike up a conversation with him soon...
As he thought this, a servant carrying a tray nearly collided with him.
Annan looked down and froze when