“…you’re f*cking kidding me.”
Though Callisto was a noble from the ground up, he was livid. In the eyes of everyone, the Chancellor’s declaration could not be overturned. He immediately fixed his expression and turned to Alana. “Talk later,” he whispered and left, walking towards his father and Priscilla.
Alana slowly closed her eyes. The Chancellor said that the engagement between Callisto and Priscilla had been established two years prior, even if he had refused. In other words, the Chancellor was worried about the relationship between his son and Alana and rushed to get him married.
── Callisto, be happy.
Even if she raised her eyelashes and squinted her eyes, Alana, with her poor eyesight could only see him vaguely. She did not know what he was doing, but she was sure Callisto was greeting Priscilla. When the orchestra recommenced, she knew they would have started dancing.
Speaking of being lonely, it would be a lie to say she wasn’t. Since her first memories formed, that person was always by her side. But she knew it was bad to continue this relationship. Relief was stronger than loneliness.
──You were good at dancing, but you hid it. I was aware of it. You never danced at the ball for me, but from now on, I want you to dance a lot without hesitation.
“Her Majesty, there is someone who wishes to greet you, what should I do?” Because there was no Callisto, someone talked to Alana directly. Until now, this had never happened before. It was a man, but Alana could not tell who the man was.
“It is the stepmother of the daughter who will marry Sir Callisto.”
“Marchioness Matos. I will see her, please guide me.”
“Your Majesty, you are standing up? Please wait, that can’t happen.”
Alana stood, and went down the stairs from the platform, step by step. It was unheard of for Alana to act alone. However, all the people in the hall were paying attention to the dance and few people noticed it. Immediately, the guards tried to go to Alana’s side, but she raised her hand to control their movement and they stopped. The nobles who noticed the walking Alana approached and exchanged words with her. It was a standard conversation, but she was struck by terrible dizziness. Alana was not used to people.
She felt like she was walking far away, even though she wasn’t. She just moved to the waiting room on the side of the venue. She felt so tired that she had an illusion that her feet were sinking into the floor. Alana saw two shadows behind the door that slowly opened.
“You have worked hard. You can go back.”
“But.” a shadow approached whilst the guard who had guided her, was confused by her instructions.
“You should obey Her Majesty’s intentions as her vassal.” The woman who spoke to the guard walked in like a cat.
“Your Majesty, this is the first time I am seeing you. My name is Flavia. I have always wanted to greet you, and I am happy that my wish has finally come true tonight.” The actions of Marchioness Matos were impudent and discourteous. If Callisto or the Chancellor were here, she would have been kicked out of the room. But Alana only looked at the woman without changing her expression. She was a beautiful woman. Stunning red hair, this Flavia. Her bright red dress accentuated her plump body. The mole next to her red lips made her sensational and even more bewitching.
“I congratulate you on the marriage of your stepdaughter Priscilla and Callisto, and wish you the prosperity and happiness of the Marquis of Matos and Duchy of Urbano. Please continue to help the country.”
”Well, Your Majesty. That is why we will join hands with the Urbano family and continue to do our best for Your Majesty and the country.”
Her eyes of contempt saw Alana as only a little girl. Alana moved her gaze to another shadow.
“Are you Marquis Matos?” Alana asked.
Flavia lifted her chin. “He is Baron Barvelo from House Nogueira. He is staying in my mansion. I took him in, because he is also a researcher of Lorenzo, the wise emperor of the Millennium Empire.” She paused waiting for Alana’s response.
“Welcome to Armenia, Baron Barcelo. Enjoy your stay.”
He approached Alana. His awakening violet eyes and silver hair of light. His blue formal wear complemented those colours. He was a beautiful young man who could be mistaken for a woman.
“My name is Emilio. Your Majesty, I am honoured to meet you.”
She saw his thin lips distort. It was a beautiful smile. But she knew it was not a real smile.
You have plans and an endless hatred. Two years ago, after he appeared in a black robe, Alana was ready.
──Finally, I’m done today.
Emilio knelt in front of Alana. Her hand was taken, and his mouth was pressed against it. While feeling the heat, Alana gently turned her eyelids down.
“Your Majesty, I am sorry to be unscrupulous, but I have something to tell you. Is that alright?”
““I do not mind. Please.” Her eyes, which were looking down, lifted up.
There were also particles of light falling from the chandelier above him, and depending on the angle, the violet eyes appeared golden. It was like a jewel.
“I am studying the Millennium Empire. I came to this country from Nogueira with the desire to know more about the wise Emperor Lorenzo. I would appreciate it if I could ask you some questions.”
Alana was left faintly wondering at his words. “If I can answer. Baron Barcelo, I will take you to a place related to Lorenzo. How is from now on? Your time.”
“Please take me with you.”