Arc 3
The ballroom buzzed with murmurs as Ye Jin stepped forward to greet Crown Prince Angus. She lowered herself into a graceful curtsy, her head bowed just enough to show respect but not submission.
"Your Highness," she began, her voice soft, "it is a great honor to stand before you. I am but the humble servant of Lord Dion. Please accept my sincerest wishes for a joyous birthday and many prosperous years ahead."
Angus's eyes lit up with amusement, and he leaned slightly closer. "Humble servant, you say? You speak with far more poise than most courtiers. Dion, where have you been hiding this one?"
Before Dion could reply, Angus smirked, his tone teasing. "Honestly, I'm quite shocked to see you with a companion at all. I'd begun to think you preferred the company of men. This changes everything."
The jab drew a loud chuckle from Damien, though Richard maintained his usual stoic demeanor.