After a long and exhausting day, I finally reach my bed, physically and mentally drained. The thought of killing someone was never in my plans, but the desire to assist Athenix fuels my determination. As I lay there, contemplating my next move, I ponder the best way to disable Henry without raising any suspicions. Ideas swirl in my head as I rub my tired face, searching for a foolproof plan. Feeling restless, I rise from the comfort of my bed and begin pacing around my room. I need more information. Maybe I can use an upcoming event to my advantage.

"Maybe a walk in the garden could ease your mind?" I jumped, forgetting that Abigal is in my room.

I sigh, "Yes, I've felt cooped up in the palace anyway." As she gently turns the doorknob and pushes the door open, I step out into the hallway, with Abigail, close on my heels. The soft click of the door closing echoes through the corridor. I notice the familiar scent of the hallway air, a mixture of floral notes and a hint of fresh paint, as we make our way forward.

As I step into the garden, I am greeted by the sight of several other nobles, each accompanied by their maids, meandering through the vibrant blooms. The sun casts a soft golden glow over the scene, enhancing the beauty of the flowers that line the pathways.

Drawn to the riot of colors and scents, I brush my hand gently over the delicate petals of the flowers as I walk by. The sensation of their soft texture against my fingertips sends a shiver of delight through me, a reminder of the simple pleasures that nature can offer.

I take in the chatter of the nobles and the sound of birds flitting from branch to branch above, creating a peaceful ambiance in the midst of the bustling palace grounds. The air is fragrant with the sweet perfume of the blossoms, casting a spell of tranquility over the gathering.

Lost in the beauty of the moment, I continue to explore the garden, allowing myself to be enveloped in the serenity of this floral oasis amidst the grandeur of the palace.

"Ah, what a beautiful white lily." I turn and come face-to-face with a man I haven't met before. His warm smile instantly put me at ease, although I couldn't shake the feeling that his words were directed specifically at me. Standing there, I couldn't help but notice his tall and commanding presence, coupled with rugged handsomeness that seemed to exude confidence.

The man, dressed in a regal manner, exudes an air of sophistication as he presents himself. His expressive eyes, the color of a stormy sea, hold a certain intensity as they scan my form. He sweeps a hand through his perfectly styled blonde hair, a subtle yet confident gesture. When he speaks, his voice is smooth and cultured, carrying a hint of authority and elegance. "I am Marquess Ezra Monroe, my lady."

I cursty, "Zerro, my lord."

The man's eyes widened with a flash of recognition and admiration as he beheld my presence. "Ah, the woman from underground who saved the children. Who knew the talk of the empire was such a beauty."

I feel a sudden rush of warmth spreading across my cheeks in response to the kind words expressed by him. The unexpected compliment catches me off guard, causing a subtle yet noticeable change in my complexion as my face turns a shade of pink. With a hint of shyness, I humbly acknowledge his words by uttering a gracious "You are too kind."

"I'll be at the celebration ball. I'm curious to know what type of title you'll receive." He licks his lips as his stormy blue eyes dart down to my own lips. "I hope I get the honor to dance with you."

I feel my heart race as he openly shows interest in me. It's hard to distinguish whether this sensation is from flattery or fear.

"Why would you want to dance with me, my lord?" As if calling him, "my lord" could put a wall between us.

"Your beauty is not like that of the other girls here." His hands are clasped behind his back as he takes a step towards me. "I heard you are a princess from an unheard-of kingdom."

"Yes, an abandoned princess. I escaped." My mouth is dry, and I swallow, trying to bring back moisture to my mouth.

"Ah, a bird that has left her cage." He chuckles as his head tilts towards me. "I heard you can shift into a bird?"

I squint my eyes slightly towards him. "It seems you know a lot about me."

"All I know are rumors. You are the talk amongst nobility." His eyes leave mine as something catches his gaze. He clears his throat. "I hope I have the chance to find out more about you at the ball." He bows slightly.  "I'll take my leave now, my lady."

As he takes his leave, I incline my body in a gentle curtsy, a gesture of respect that I hope conveys my gratitude for his attention. In the aftermath of our interaction, my hands tremble slightly, betraying the mix of nervousness and excitement that swirl within me. I make a conscious effort to steady my breathing, drawing in slow, measured breaths to regain my composure.

"I see you are making friends." I feel a shiver run down my spine as I hear the familiar husky voice, causing me to jump in surprise. Turning my head slowly, I am met with the imposing figure of the Emperor standing there with a hint of amusement in his eyes. I try to compose myself, my heart pounding in my chest,

With a sudden rush of nerves and excitement coursing through me, I find myself sinking into another graceful curtsy, feeling my heart leap into my throat. "Your majesty."

"Do be careful with the friends you make." My head snaps up to him, and for some reason, I feel as if I've done something wrong.

His usually slicked-back hair now appears tousled, as if he's been running his fingers through it in frustration. The mischievous spark that typically lights up his eyes has been replaced with a simmering jealousy, and his usual smirk has been replaced by a tight smile.

"I will follow your majesty's advice." He frowns slightly as the words 'your majesty' leave my lips. He doesn't say anything before he sighs and rubs his forehead. As he steps closer, the suddenness of his movement catches me off guard. The sensation of his hand enveloping mine, gently, yet with purpose, sends a shiver down my spine. The warmth of his breath brushing against my skin as he presses a soft, respectful kiss to my hand creates a stirring of conflicting emotions within me.

"I hope you save all your dances for me." In a fleeting moment, I feel his warm breath against my skin as his lips gently graze my hand. His whisper, filled with a hint of intimacy, sends a shiver down my spine, causing a surge of emotions to flood my heart. The sensation is so delicate yet electrifying, leaving me captivated by his presence. Our eyes meet, locking in a silent exchange that speaks volumes beyond words. In that instance, time seems to stand still, allowing us to share a connection that transcends the boundaries of reality. His touch lingers, imprinting a lasting trace of his affection on my skin. It's a moment that I want to hold onto, a memory that I want to cherish forever. And as he pulls away, a bittersweet longing fills me, yearning for more of those tender moments that make my heart flutter with a mixture of excitement and apprehension.

I know I'm attracted to the Emperor; his looks alone would make anyone attracted to him. His words and the way he acts towards me seem to only fuel my feelings towards him. The reality is I could never be with him. I can't deny my attraction towards him, but I also can't act upon it. I don't even understand why I want him the way I do. It doesn't seem logical.

"I'm sure your majesty has many women more deserving than I to dance with." My face flushes as despite my efforts to maintain composure, the tendrils of envy wove themselves into my very words, betraying the turmoil within me.

Upon witnessing the return of the familiar smirk on his face, a rush of warmth flooded my cheeks, deepening the hue of my embarrassment. In that fleeting moment, his expression seemed to convey a knowingness that pierced through my facade, leaving me feeling vulnerable and exposed.

*

The day of the ball arrived faster than expected, filling me with a mix of nervous excitement and anticipation. Athenix had gone above and beyond, sparing no expense in selecting the perfect dress for the occasion. As I stood before the full-length mirror, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at my reflection. The stunning red and white gown, adorned with intricate jewels, accentuated my figure in a way that made me feel elegant and confident.

This time, we had opted for a slightly different look, replacing the long sleeves with long, white gloves that gracefully embraced my arms, stopping just short of my elbows. Anthenix's words about the disgusting men trying to kiss my hands at the ball lingered in my mind, prompting a small smile at the memory of her disapproving expression.

The scowl doesn't suit her, though a gentle smile doesn't either. She is a master of a poker face, and she wears it better than a crown.

I will get to meet her cousin today. I also found out a hunting tournament is right around the corner. I've decided to use that opportunity to get rid of him. The only problem is I don't think I can make it look like an accident. Most of the nobles will be in their wolf form. While the hunting could be dangerous, it's rare for accidents to happen. The nobles are all strong wolves. Getting mauled by an animal is not likely. So should I make it seem like an attack from another noble house?

Count Charles Arden has the wealth of a Duke, but the title is always just out of reach. He has only been the count for four years after his father's mysterious death. Nobles gossip that Count Charles killed his own father after rumors started going around that his younger brother, Christian, was to take his place.

"Are you ready?" As Athenix looks me over, her eyes glimmering with approval, a warm smile graces her lips.

Taking a deep breath, I meet Athenix's gaze and return her proud smirk with a shy grin. "I think so," I reply, trying to sound more confident than I feel.

In his pursuit of ascending to the noble ranks, Charles fixated his gaze on Athenix, harbouring ambitions to marry into the esteemed dukedom. However, his desires took an unforeseen turn when Duke Carmine unequivocally designated Athenix's cousin as the rightful heir to the noble lineage. In a swift and unexpected shift of attention, Charles redirected his intentions towards the cousin, forsaking his initial aspirations linked to Athenix. This decision led to a notable clash between Charles and Athenix's cousin, sparking a feud within the noble circles that reverberated with tension and conflict.

"The answer is yes. You will be a noble soon. Confidence is the only thing you show." Athenix advises as she crosses her arms and raises her chin. I bite my lip and nod as she struts out of the room, and I follow closely behind.

As Athenix and her father, Duke Carmine, approach the closed doors to the ballroom, a facade of familial harmony masks the underlying tension. Duke Carmine wears a fake smile that veils his true emotions, while Athenix executes the role of a dutiful daughter to perfection, complete with a captivating smile and graceful curtsy. The scene presents a picturesque image of a loving father and his adoring daughter to any onlookers, but beneath the surface, a darker truth lurks.

Despite appearances, the wolf's healing abilities serve as a deceptive tool to conceal the abuse inflicted on Athenix. This paradox of care and cruelty adds a layer of complexity to their relationship, shrouding their interactions in a cloak of ambiguity. As the doors to the ballroom stand closed before them, a silent narrative of manipulation and hidden suffering unfolds, unbeknownst to the outside world.

As the grand ballroom doors swing open, a hushed anticipation prevails in the air. The ambiance is exquisitely elegant, with chandeliers casting a soft glow upon the opulent surroundings. The orchestrated entrance of Athenix and her father heightens the posh atmosphere, with two guards ceremoniously announcing their arrival.

As I step up to the double doors, a distinguished knight steps forward with a respectful bow, embodying chivalry and grace. "I am Sir Faris, a knight. Lady Carmine assigned me to escort you into the ball." His introduction is delivered with a sense of solemn duty, a testament to his noble lineage and dedication to his charge, Lady Carmine.

"Nice to meet you Sir Faris. I am Zerro."

"It is an honor to escort you Lady Zerro." I don't say anything as my own introduction beats me to it. Entering a grand ballroom with Faris by my side, I can feel the weight of curious eyes on me as the lights illuminate the elegant space. The hushed whispers of nobles add to the regal atmosphere, their scrutinizing gazes assessing not just my appearance but also my every move and gesture.

As I stand there, the opulence of the throne room overwhelms me - the intricate carvings on the throne, the flickering torches lighting up the room, the soft rustle of silken robes as courtiers move around. The Emperor's gaze feels like a weight on my shoulders, a mix of curiosity and assessment. I remind myself to stand tall and project confidence, despite the fluttering in my chest and the nervous energy coursing through me.

As Faris bows and retreats to the sidelines, I am acutely aware of the weight of this moment - the silence in the room seems to amplify the sound of my own heartbeat.

Kyan's imposing figure fills the room as he strides towards me with purpose, a commanding presence that silences the whispers of the gathered nobles. Every step he takes seems deliberate, his shoulders squared and chin held high, exuding an air of confidence and authority. The tension in the room is palpable as he stops just six feet in front of me, a palpable aura of intensity surrounding him. The hushed murmurs of the surrounding nobles gradually fade away.

"For saving the noble children from rogues trying to shake down our empire, I grant you the title as countess as your reward." As he looks around the room, a hint of mischief flickers in his eyes, adding depth and intrigue to his expressions. It's as if there's an unspoken message behind his gaze, a hidden world of thoughts and emotions waiting to be uncovered. With a gentle smile, he raises a crystal glass of effervescent champagne, the bubbles catching the light and adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the moment. The elegant stemware glints in the soft glow of the room, lending a sense of luxury and sophistication to the scene. "Let's celebrate Countess Zerro Achlys."

As I took a deep breath and gathered my nerves, I executed a graceful curtsy towards Kyan. I felt a rush of adrenaline as I straightened up and made my way towards the sidelines, where I could observe the upcoming dance. The air was filled with anticipation as the orchestra began to play, their melodic tunes filling the grand ballroom.

I watched in awe as the nobles around me glided onto the dance floor with practiced ease, their movements a mesmerizing display of poise and sophistication. The room seemed to come alive with the swirl of colorful gowns and the gleam of polished shoes as they effortlessly moved in sync to the music.

Despite my initial nerves, I couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for them, their movements exuding a sense of grace and refinement that was truly captivating. I found myself getting lost in the beauty of the moment.

Is this what freedom feels like? A new name to symbolize the death of my status as a princess. For the first time since I arrived, I finally feel as if I could leave my past behind me and embrace this new life with open arms. All this time, I felt like I was holding my breath, waiting to be sucked back into the underground kingdom. Yet here I am with a different title, a title no one cares enough to take away.

As I stood in the grand ballroom, lost in my thoughts, the sound of a throat clearing brought me back to reality. I turned to see Marquess Ezra approaching me, his welcoming smile lighting up his face. "It's nice to see such a beautiful flower in the palace," he remarked, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Before I could respond, he takes my hand and brings it to his lips in a chivalrous gesture that makes my heart flutter. "I believe you promised me a dance," he said, his tone playful yet determined.

Caught off guard by his sudden charm, I tried to protest, but he was already leading me towards the dance floor with a confident stride. The elegant music filled the room as we began to dance, his hand resting lightly on my waist as we moved in perfect harmony.

"I never believed in love at first sight," As we effortlessly glide across the room, the weight of his confession hits me like a wave, causing me to sharply inhale. His beaming smile in response to my reaction fills the air with a mix of tension and anticipation. I can't help but notice the envious glares of other girls from the corners of my eyes, their expressions hinting at hidden desires and unspoken rivalries.

"How many times have you fallen in love at first sight?"

Marquess Ezra chuckled softly at my response and casually shrugged, his demeanor strangely nonchalant considering our intense conversation. "I simply have an appreciation for beauty in all its forms," he explained, his words tinged with a hint of mystery.

"Love is not the same thing as lust."

"But lust comes with love."

"It can also be delivered without love." I counter as we pass another dancing couple. "Disguised as love, I can't imagine the amount of hearts you have broken with your lust."

As he licks his lips with a small smile that never fades, the lingering silence fills the air as the music comes to a halt. In that moment, a wave of realization washes over me, and a sense of unease tightens my stomach as I comprehend his intentions to continue dancing with me. The weight of his gaze upon me lingers, and I feel the tension in the room rising as he holds onto me, unwilling to let go even as the music ceases.

"I am going to steal Countess Zerro from your arms." As my head snaps towards the commanding voice that sends chills down my spine, a rush of adrenaline surges through me. My heart flutters uncontrollably as I lock eyes with the mesmerizing man standing before me - his gaze piercing through me. Marquess Ezra, caught off guard by this, barely has time to react.

In a bold move, Kyan reaches out and gently grasps my hand, pulling me towards him as the next dance commences. The elegant rhythm of the music surrounds us as we move as one, his touch igniting a spark within me. The intensity of his gaze never wavers, and I find myself completely enthralled by his charm and confidence.

As we glide across the dance floor, I feel a sense of exhilaration and intrigue swirling around us, lost in the moment and captivated by the man who has seemingly swept me off my feet.

"You have my permission to give any man hell who dares bother you." My eyes widen as he doesn't hesitate with his words.

"Your majesty, I wouldn't dare."

"I will clean any and every mess you make." He twirls me before bringing me back towards his chest. The soft music playing in the background offers a soothing backdrop to our shared serenity. His touch, a delicate balance of strength and gentleness, guides me effortlessly across the floor. The warmth of his embrace envelops me, creating a sense of security and belonging that I have never known before.

As we move in synchronization, our breaths harmonizing, I find myself losing all sense of self-consciousness and fear. In his arms, I am free to just be, to exist in this moment without the weight of the world pressing down on me. The bond we share in this dance is a language unto itself, speaking volumes without the need for words.

I am grateful for this chance to connect on a deeper level, to experience this intimacy and vulnerability with another soul. In his embrace, I find solace and strength, a sanctuary from the chaos of life outside these walls. As the dance continues, I feel myself surrendering to the rhythm of the moment, allowing myself to be truly present in the here and now.

"I should hold a ball every day." The sudden sound of his voice jolts me back from the depths of my thoughts, a flush of embarrassment creeping up my cheeks as I become acutely aware of how much I enjoy the comforting embrace of his arms around me.

"Why your majesty?"

"So I can dance with you every day." My cheeks flush at his words. I'm not sure how to respond.

"The nobles would not allow that."

"I would burn this kingdom down for you, my dear." In a moment of amusement, he emits a hearty chuckle in response to my shocked gasp upon hearing his unexpected confession. I find myself instinctively scanning the faces of other couples in our vicinity, seeking any signs of eavesdropping.

"Why." My shaky reply causes him to bite his lip.

"I'll tell you after the hunting tournament." After the song reaches its conclusion, there is a brief pause as we exchange a respectful bow, each hesitant to break the moment of shared connection. Eventually, I muster the resolve to disengage, moving with purposeful grace towards the sidelines.

"Ah, Countess Zerro, I am lord Henry, soon to be Duke." I smirk at his words. Soon? I doubt the Duke agrees with that. Maybe I found my angle.

"So should I get used to calling you Duke Henry?" I tease, and a smile lights up his face at my words.

"Yes, I plan to take over the Dukedom any day now." Henry is ambitious, and he lets it be known. That is helpful to me. Who would win in a fight, Henry or the Duke?

"You have been saying that for a while, lord Henry." As I slowly shift my gaze towards the venomous voice, originating from a man who stands just a few inches taller than Henry, I can't help but feel a palpable tension hanging in the air between the two individuals. The atmosphere seems to crackle with a mix of unspoken animosity and unsaid words, creating an almost suffocating vibe in the room.

The man's expression is twisted into a sneer, his eyes cold and calculating as they narrow in on Henry, sending a shiver down my spine. Henry, on the other hand, stands his ground with a steely resolve, his jaw clenched in determination.
Is this Count Charlie? "Yet you are still not Duke yet." Charlie smirks, revealing a dimple on the right side of his smile.

Henry glares at him, the two seeming to forget my existence. "I will be, while you will always be a count." Charlie's jaw tenses at his words. As the two continue going back and forth, I slowly back away and disappear into the crowd. I need to find Athenix.

Athenix's radiant aura distinguishes her effortlessly from the crowd, blooming like a divine entity among mere mortals. When our gazes meet, I acknowledge her presence with a subtle nod of respect, recognizing her ethereal charm and grace. Undeterred by the attempts of other men vying for her attention, she maintains her unwavering focus and strides with purpose towards my direction. It is in moments like these that one can truly appreciate the allure and magnetism she exudes, captivating all in her path without even a hint of effort.

"Do you have a plan?" She whispers, and I shrug, still needing more information.

"Do you know when your cousin was supposed to inherit the dukedom."

"Knowing my father, after he dies." 

"Does Henry know this?" Athenix scoffs a laugh following after.

"Everyone knows how prideful my father is, he will die being the Duke."

"Henry talks about becoming the Duke soon." Athenix smirks at my words.

"You think he plans to kill my father? The paperwork hasn't even been done yet for him to become the Duke." Athenix rubs her throat as her eyes fall on Henry.

"Does Henry know that?"

Her smirk grows. "Only I know."

"Perfect."

Now let's start a fire.

My eyes immediately lock onto Duke Carmine, engaged in conversation with Lord Henry by the elaborate stained-glass windows. Their voices murmured amidst the soft sounds of music playing in the background. Sensing an opportunity to approach them, I straighten my posture and gracefully make my way through the crowd, careful to avoid bumping into other guests clad in exquisite ball gowns and tailored suits.

As I finally reach their side, I take a deep breath to steady my nerves before executing a precise curtsy. Duke Carmine turns towards me, his regal expression softening into a warm smile at my greeting. "Countess Zerro, have you met Lord Henry."

I smile at his words and nod. "Yes my lord, he was telling me earlier he would be taking over the Dukedom soon." Duke Carmines eyebrows raise in surprise.  He looks at Henry with a glare. "Maybe the next celebration will be honoring him taking over the Dukedom." I make sure I sound excited and pretend not to notice the sudden change of mood between them.

A few nobles glance towards them, they watch as the tension builds. "Ah but it won't be that soon, lord Henry needs more wisdom in his eyes. It will be a few more years." The Duke's seemingly cheerful expression belies the storm brewing within his steely gaze, betraying a simmering rage that threatens to break through the facade of civility Likewise, Henry's attempt to cloak his disdain with a veil of composure only serves to highlight the animosity radiating from his narrowed eyes towards the Duke.

As the nobles observe the subtle power play unfolding before them, a hushed murmur begins to ripple through the assembly, signaling their keen awareness of the underlying discord.

"Of course your grace, it is a lot of work running the duchy, I hope he can live up to your legacy." A genuine smile replaces the forced one as Duke Carmine nods at me with a delighted laugh.

"Will you be at the hunting tournament?" I ask and his eyes light up.

"Of course, Henry and I both will," he explains as he gestures to himself and Henry.

"Oh, are you hunting as a team?" This causes the Duke to laugh out loud.

"Oh no, I need to see how this pup does on his own to make sure I'm making the right decision." Out of the corner of my eyes I see Henry's hands clench. He bites the inside of his cheek as he looks away from the conversation, trying to hide his anger at the dukes offensive words.

"Well, may the best man win, I hope to see you both there." I smile at how easy they are making this for me.

By the end of the competition, Athenix will be Duchess Carmine thanks to both the Dukes and Henry's pride and greed.

****

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