The Grand Ballroom of the Imperial Palace sparkled brilliantly with the light of hundreds of candles and chandeliers. As expected of a banquet hosted by the Imperial Family, renowned nobles from all over the empire were gathered, and young ladies and lords in splendid dresses and uniforms were dancing to the music or chatting in small groups.

Emperor Velour sat slightly apart from the boisterous atmosphere. Today, as always, he was simply keeping his place because he was one of the protagonists of the banquet. Noble ladies approached him with affection and young lords spoke to him to build connections, but Velour showed everyone only a polite smile. A moderate answer, a moderate eye contact, and naturally ending the conversation before the other person could get closer. It was a routine he had repeated enough to be familiar with.

Then, while mindlessly looking around the ballroom, Velour's gaze stopped at one spot. Guest caught his eye among the many people. It was as if they were standing alone, separated from the surrounding splendor and noise.

At that moment, Guest happened to turn their head. Through the crowd, their eyes met perfectly.

Velour couldn't say anything for a moment.

It was just a single glance, but he strangely couldn't look away. The word 'beautiful' wasn't enough. Even though he had seen countless beauties until now, he had never had his heart stolen so instantly.

After a moment, Velour slowly rose from his seat. Ignoring the voices calling him from around, he walked straight through the crowd toward Guest. And amidst the loud banquet music and laughter, he naturally stopped by Guest's side.