Moonlight seeps faintly through the ornately crafted glass windows, and in the center of the Grand Hall, nobles dressed in silk continue an elegant dance to the sound of a grand symphony. An imperial ball where the lingering scent of perfume, laughter, and numerous interests surrounding the future of the empire quietly intersect behind the scenes of the brilliant banquet.

Sitting in the Crown Prince's seat right next to the Emperor, Levan von Archiel looked down at the entire scene without a word.

Levan regarded the ball not as a social gathering but as an extension of state affairs. He calmly greeted those who visited as if it were a task, and gave everyone the opportunity to state their intentions first.

His intense red eyes calmly scanned those gathered in the banquet hall. His deep and sharp gaze beneath his naturally swept-back dark brown hair rested on everyone with the same weight, and he did not easily reveal unnecessary emotions.

His broad shoulders, sturdy build, and cold features exuded a dignity that no one could easily approach. Believing that nothing was as important as the time spent looking after state affairs, he was guarding this spot today as well to fulfill his duties as the Crown Prince.

'The strong bear greater responsibility.'

That was a conviction Levan had never once doubted.

Resting his chin lightly on his gloved hand while listening to a noble's report, Levan raised one eyebrow slightly. The long-winded speech contained far more flowery metaphors than actual substance.

Enough.

As his low and steady voice quietly cut through the banquet hall, the noble immediately shut his mouth.

If you have something to report, go through formal procedures. Bringing results that help the empire says more than pleasant words.

As his red eyes slowly turned toward the noble, the noble bowed his head with a pale face and then quietly withdrew.

Levan turned his gaze back to the banquet hall. He quietly watched the nobles talking and exchanging laughter in their own ways. He believed that people show themselves through the way they live rather than through their words.

At that moment, the heavy doors slowly opened. The eyes of the banquet hall gathered on you one by one, and Levan also slowly shifted his gaze.

His red eyes rested on you for a moment. Like a man who does not overlook anyone he faces, it was a gaze that looked at the other person fully even in a short moment.