"Zerro, you danced with the Emperor!" Abigail approaches me with visible excitement, gently bumping into me as she expresses her enthusiasm.

"Yes, it seems I did," I find myself clutching my head, overtaken by an unsettling surge of dizziness. A wave of realization washes over me. The gravity of the situation hits me - I can't help but feel anxiety coursing through me as I try to comprehend the thoughtlessness of the reckless words I have just spoken to someone who holds the ability to effortlessly bring my life to an end.

"I've only ever seen him dance with Athenix, and even that is a rare sight." My head snaps to her at her words.

"What?"

"Forget my lady. I'm going to have to start calling you your majesty." She playfully giggles while teasing, going as far as to imitate a half curtsy, leaving me visibly alarmed.

"Don't jest like that. Who knows what will happen if someone hears you."

"We are just maids. No one pays attention to us anyway." Behind her playful demeanor, I can't help but detect a lingering sense of seriousness in her voice.

I can't stop thinking about my dance with the king, and it's making me extremely anxious. The ballroom has become way too crowded for me to handle. "Abigail, are you ready to go to the festival."

She suddenly turns serious. "I'm sorry Zerro did it bother you that much?" Her eyes show her worry.

"It was just odd." I find myself growing increasingly worried as my eyes land on the throne. The sight of those mischievous green eyes and that playful smirk sends a chilling sensation down my spine. Hastily, I quickly avert my gaze, desperate to get rid of the unease that has engulfed me. "It's crowded in here." I breathlessly say, and Abigail simply nods.

"Then let's go, we haven't missed the fireworks yet." Abigail's determined efforts to brighten up this situation evoke a deep sense of gratitude within me, filling my heart with warmth and causing a smile to spread across my face. With unwavering determination, we swiftly make our exit from the ballroom.

"We should probably change first. This dress won't do well with the type of dancing in the streets." The excitement sparkles in Abigail's eyes as we enthusiastically make our way to her room, which bears a resemblance to mine but has a cozy and well-loved atmosphere.

She assists me in getting out of my dress, and in return, I promptly help her as well. Afterward, I quickly put on a lovely white chemise, a charming dark brown petticoat, and a stunning deep red bodice.

"Let's hurry, I don't have long before mother expects me home."

With those words, we eagerly make our way to the festival ahead.

**

The street music exudes an overwhelming liveliness, surpassing even that of the palace. Instead of hushed whispers, the air is brimming with jubilant laughter and amiable conversation. The beats of the music inspire delighted applause as people enthusiastically move to the fast-paced rhythm, gracefully transitioning from one partner to another with liveliness.

We proceed to a food vendor and purchase a delicious snack to enjoy. "It's so much to easier to eat now that I'm out of that dress." Abigal sighs as she pats her belly.

"Easier to breath too." This causes her to giggle.

We look at the other vendors selling homemade jewelry. "Look at those." Abigal excitedly points to the beautiful braided bracelets adorned with charming small charms. Happily, she decides to purchase not just one but two of them. As a delightful surprise, she hands me a gorgeous light blue one that perfectly complements her mesmerizing eyes. She joyfully puts on the vibrant red bracelet herself, radiating positivity and style. "Now we have friendship bracelets."

I mirror her smile as I quickly put mine on as well.

We join the crowd, clapping to the beat with joy and excitement as we watch the dancers.

I can't help but feel a surge of excitement as Abigail and I exchange a knowing glance before taking the plunge. I eagerly extend my hand towards the man who was already gracefully gliding on the dance floor, ready to embrace the joyous atmosphere. As he releases his previous partner, he greets me with a beaming smile, making me feel instantly welcomed. Our initial movements might have been a little uncoordinated, but soon enough, I effortlessly synchronize with the rhythm of the music and the vibrant crowd. With a graceful twirl, he effortlessly spins me into the arms of another gentleman, keeping the momentum of the dance alive.

My heart leaps with joy, and a radiant smile graces my face without a moment's pause. Despite the vibrant energy, the bustling activity, and the bustling crowds, the experience is undeniably blissful.

I feel free. Blissful freedom is in my grasp, and as I grab the next partner I know in my heart, I never want to let go.

I then notice Abigail out of the corner of my eye waving frantically. I quickly dance out of the circle and rush towards her.

"I'm going to miss the fireworks. I have to go my mother expects me home soon." She breathes as she tries to catch her breath. "You should stay and watch the fireworks. They are beautiful." She looks up at the sky as if they were already there.

"I think I'll do that." I say as I look up at the twinkling stars.

She nudges my arm, throwing me a smile. "I'll see you tomorrow." She waves as she rushes away.

I wave at her as I watch her leave.

I eagerly reach out my hand once more, reaching towards the vibrant crowd as I chase that euphoric sensation I experienced earlier. The thumping of adrenaline fills my ears as I spin and dance with unknown faces. But then, out of the blue, a familiar hand grabs mine, and an electric connection ignites as we sway together. Their touch, placing their other hand on the small of my back just as they did at the ball, sends shivers down my spine. I glance up at the mysterious figure, hidden beneath their hood, as they lead us both gracefully out of the circle.

"Was my dancing inadequate?" His deep husky voice cuases my eyes to widen. The Emperor now dressed closely to a commoner with a hood covering his face stands before me.

"Y-your ma-" He gently places a finger to my lips, gently hushing me.

"Speak casually to me here." He gently raises my hand to his lips, pressing a tender kiss against it.

"I can't do that yo-"

"Kyan," He kindly corrects me, and I can perceive a playful undertone in his voice. "Go on, say my name."

I gently push back his hood to catch a glimpse of his face. "Kyan." I notice a subtle change in his demeanor as I whisper, observing his jaw tensing and his eyes briefly closing.

When his eyes open once more, a mischievous glint playfully flickers like a radiant flame. "We didn't get to finish our talk earlier."

"It seemed more of an interrogation than talk."

"Pardon me, that was not my intention."

I observe him intently, finding myself completely captivated. His enchanting green eyes, filled with sparkling specks of gold, are truly mesmerizing and impossible to look away from. "Then what was your intention."

He playfully bites his lip, catching my attention and causing my eyes to quickly focus on them. I can't help but admire his plump lips, imagining what it would be like to reach up on my tip toes and meet them with my own.

Wait, what am I thinking? I find myself taking a step back, only to realize that he immediately mimics my every move, ensuring that no distance is created between us. In response, I quickly lock eyes with him, a glare reflecting my determination.

"Well, you'll receive a title soon, so I wanted to get to know you."

"Don't you have people to investigate me for you."

He chuckles at my response. "Yes, of course, but I wanted to handle this matter personally."

"Well, what do you want to know." He eagerly licks his lips in response to my words while I take a deep breath to calm the exhilarating beat of my racing heart.

"Everything."

"That's a bit vague."

"Well, how about we enjoy the festival and get to know each other." He muses, and I narrow my eyes at him. "Is that improper?" Again with the teasing.

"It would probably cause a scandal for you," I retort.

He leans down with a gentle touch, his lips lightly grazing against my ear as he whispers with warmth and tenderness. "Then let's go somewhere no one could see us." I know I should pull back, but I can't seem to force myself, and before I know it, I'm nodding in agreement. He takes my hand in his and whisk me away through a deserted alleyway.

We navigate through the quiet alleyways, feeling like forbidden lovers escaping society's watchful gaze, until we finally reach our destination: the magnificent clock tower. With a mix of excitement and determination, our hearts pounding, we swiftly ascend to the top, with the thrill of our hidden connection surging through our bodies. I gaze down at the enchanting festival below, filled with wonder and amazement.

When I catch a glimpse of Kyan, I notice that he's not just focused on the festival, but on me. There's a joyful curiosity in his eyes, mingling with the golden specks that sparkle. His lips curl up into a genuine smile, replacing any trace of a smirk. He gently moves a stray hair behind my ear, tenderly running his fingers through the ends of my hair. "What does a mate mean to you." He eyes me with hooded eyes at his question.

"Death."

"Death?" His eyes widen with curiosity, and his face briefly displays a frown, as he carefully considers my words.

"Women were more like objects. They didn't last long after giving their mates a child or two. Sometimes, they didn't even make it to that point." It was rare to see a loving couple. Most women I met in the kingdom were covered in bruises. I hardly ever saw older women.
My biggest fear was always finding my mate, knowing it would mean my death would be chasing after me.

"That would never happen here."

"Are you sure?" I say as I stare down at the lively people of the festival. Who knows how many women and children are suffering between the periods of celebration. "You can't possibly know what happens in each home."

"You are correct, but it's severely looked down on. Abusers face a harsh penalty for their crimes." He sighs. "Though I know even that could never be enough, but I would be a tyrant if I had soldiers randomly bursting in people's home to check. The most I can do is give the victims an option to come forward."

By his solem expression, I realized I've soured the mood.

"I'm sorry, your majesty, I've been hopeful since I've escaped, but sometimes, my bitterness slips out." I just want to be happy. When will I ever drop the baggage of my past and abandon it completely.

"Even after our wounds have healed, scars take longer to fade."

"Sadly, some never do." My teeth clench as I've done it again. Happiness is fleeting. Trauma always seems to linger, even after the threat has passed.

"Your past is traumatic, I didn't mean to open old wounds that had not healed yet." Kyan gently caresses my cheek, his gaze locked with mine, and in that moment, I can't help but feel a sense of closeness between us. As his touch envelops me, a wave of tranquility washes over my body. Although my demons still linger, Kyan has the power to quiet them, bringing a sense of peace to my soul.

"Are you like this with all of your subjects." I inquire as I take a step back. He let's his hand fall, placing his hands behind his back.

"Only you."

"Why?"

He takes a moment to look at me, carefully considering his response while examining every detail of my face. "I won't burden you with that answer right now," He licks his lips, a gesture that suggests his anticipation, and I can't help but notice his jaw clenching with determination.

On a whim, I imitate his action and moisten my lips with my tongue, as though they have suddenly become dry.

"Have you met your mate?" My throat feels dry as if my heart is about to come to a halt, and a wave of unease washes over me at my own question. Even my hands have become sweaty, and my dress suddenly feels constricting.

Before he has a chance to respond, the sky lights up with popping sounds as the fireworks begin, filling us both with excitement. Our eyes are immediately drawn upwards, captivated by the magnificent display.

In that moment, I feel his hand slipping into mine, creating a connection between us. We stand there in silence, completely mesmerized by the beautiful fireworks, forgetting all about my unanswered question.

"Shall I escort you back to the palace." Kyan asks as the fireworks start to die down.

"That would be improper for the Emperor to escort a maid home. I can't imagine the rumors it would spill." Though I find myself wishing he were a commoner that could walk me home. Maybe even court me. However, our statuses are much too different to ever allow that.

"What if I strike down anyone who dare utter such things." The playful smirk has returned to his face, but a serious glint creeps up in his eyes.

"Please don't shed unnecessary blood, your majesty." This causes him to chuckle.

"I don't mind if it is what you wish." He tenderly grasps my hand as we descend down the stairs of the majestic clock tower. "But I will settle for just escorting you out of the clock tower for now."

My eyes snap to him at his words. "For now?" He doesn't answer. Instead, he smirks as we head down the staircase.

Upon reaching the end, he graciously plants a gentle kiss on my hand, bidding me farewell with warmth as he gracefully vanishes into the night.

*