The aftermath of Lilith's "accident" lingered in the air, but Tiara wasn't one to let such antics slide without a clever remark.
"Lilith," Tiara said, her voice carrying just enough volume to catch the attention of nearby nobles, "your coordination truly amazes me. Such precisionâmanaging to spill wine and your reputation in a single move."
The nearby guests chuckled behind their hands, while Lilith's face turned crimson. She opened her mouth to respond, but Tiara turned away with a polite smile, dismissing her entirely.
Chris, standing nearby, fought to hide his smirk. "You have quite the way with words, Lady Tiara."
Tiara raised an eyebrow. "Only when it's deserved, Your Highness."
At the Imperial Dining Table
The banquet transitioned into the formal dinner, with rows of finely crafted tables laden with delicacies. Tiara was seated with her family, Mia, and a few other nobles she vaguely knew. Across the room, Chris sat at the head table with the emperor, the empress, and Alistair.
Selene, seated beside her son, leaned in to whisper to Alistair. "You mustn't let her mock you. Strike when the moment is ripe."
Alistair smirked. "Don't worry, Mother. I'll remind her who truly holds the power here."
As the courses were served, Tiara noticed Alistair's persistent gaze and sighed. "If he stares any harder, his eyes might fall out."
Mia giggled. "Maybe he's enchanted. Your beauty is dangerous, Tiara."
Tiara scoffed. "He's more interested in causing trouble. I'd wager my favorite sword on it."
An Unexpected Announcement
Partway through the dinner, the emperor rose from his seat, and the hall fell silent. His presence was commanding, his voice resonant as he addressed the crowd.
"On this joyous occasion, we celebrate not only the empress's birthday but also the unity of our noble houses and the future of our empire." He paused, his gaze sweeping over the gathered guests. "To that end, I am pleased to announce that discussions of alliances are underway, including potential unions that will strengthen our realm."
Whispers erupted across the hall, and Tiara felt a dozen pairs of eyes darting her way. Her heart sank as she realized the implication.
Mia leaned over, whispering, "Do you think he's talking about you and Prince Chris?"
"Unions?" Tiara muttered under her breath. "More like cages wrapped in gold."
Across the room, Chris's calm demeanor cracked ever so slightly. He caught Tiara's eye and gave her a small shrug, as if to say, This isn't my doing.
Lilith's Next Attempt
After dinner, the dance floor was opened, and couples began pairing off. Lilith, dressed in a gown designed to command attention, made her way toward Chris. She curtsied with a dazzling smile.
"Your Highness, may I have the honor of this dance?"
Chris's smile didn't reach his eyes. "My apologies, Lady Lilith. I've already promised this dance to someone else."
"Who might that be?" Lilith pressed, her voice honeyed but strained.
Chris turned to Tiara, holding out a hand. "Lady Tiara, shall we?"
The hall seemed to hold its breath as Tiara rose, her expression unreadable. She placed her hand in Chris's and allowed him to lead her to the center of the room.
A Dance to Remember
As the music began, Tiara found herself unexpectedly nervous. "You didn't have to rescue me, you know."
Chris chuckled. "Rescuing you? I thought I was saving myself."
Tiara smirked. "From what? Lady Lilith's charm?"
"Exactly."
Their movements were graceful yet playful, their banter drawing amused glances from the crowd.
"Do you think this dance will fuel the rumors?" Tiara asked, her tone light.
Chris's eyes sparkled. "Undoubtedly. Shall we give them something to talk about?"
Tiara laughed. "Why not? Let's make it a performance they'll never forget."
Meanwhile, Alistair and Selene Plot
At the edge of the room, Alistair fumed as he watched Tiara and Chris dance. "She's making a fool of me."
Selene placed a calming hand on his arm. "Patience, my son. Let them have their moment. The higher they climb, the harder they'll fall."
"Fall?" Alistair muttered, his eyes narrowing. "Oh, they'll fall alright. Right into the trap we're setting."