In the distance, Athan trotted along the pavement with a few footmen that served the Edelweiss Household behind him. For he was royalty, his achievements and credentials thus far outweighed his notoriety and immoral reputation.
His father, the Emperor, highly acknowledged every individual for their great contributions—for as long as the outcome is a boon, such a public image shouldn't matter to him.
As the newly appointed Heir Apparent to the throne, Athan was still in his peak of influence and paying a visit from another well-known aristocrat; it would garner attention not only to the elites of the aristocracy but also from the masses.
He took advantage of what he already had, unlike the villainess, who had fallen from grace, and picked up whatever she had left in her.
There was no one beside her, no footmen to escort her—or even the loyal dog she had brought along wasn't with her.
'Why is she even alone—?'