The Ballroom

The oath ceremony had finally come to an end.

Under the blazing chandeliers of the eastern grand palace, Nobles drowned themselves in expensive wine and shallow laughter and smiles painted their faces, yet greed hid beneath every elegant gesture.

From the upper balcony overlooking the ballroom, Lucien Evermont stood beside his father in silence.

The young heir's sharp crimson eyes swept across the crowd below. Dukes, Counts, Merchants, Military officials......all gathered beneath the banners of House Evermont.

And all of them wanted something.

Beside him stood the rulers of the East Himself -

DUKE VALERIUS EVERMONT.

Cold, untouchable, a man whose mere presence forced nobles to lower their heads.

Valeius rested one hand behind his back while watching the ballroom below with emotionless eyes.

"They laughed too loudly" he finally spoke.

His deep voice was calm, yet carried enough weight to silence the air itself.

Lucien Evermont remained quiet.

Valeius Evermont glanced towards him briefly.

"A starving wolf smile sweeter than a loyal dog"

His gaze returned to the nobles below.

"Remember that, Lucien. The ones praising you today would sell your corpse tomorrow if it benefited them"

"Yes, father"

"Do not mistake politeness for loyalty"

The Duke's eyes narrowed slightly as a group of nobles bowed exaggeratedly toward the balcony.

"They see you as the next Duke of the East already. Their sons will seek your friendship."

A pause.

"Some even offer marriage proposals, do you even understand the meaning behind it?"

Lucien's Evermont expression did not change.

Valeius Evermont finally looked directly at his son.

"You are not permitted the luxury of foolishness."

His words were colder than the winter winds beyond the palace walls.

"You look sharp still"

Lucien fingers tightened slightly behind his back.

"Your swordsmanship is stagnant"

The Duke spoke the words without hesitation.

"You read well. You calculate well. But......

Talent alone is worthless if your blade cannot protect your name"

Lucien lowered his gaze slightly.

"I will improve"

"You will do more than improve"

Valeius stepped closer.

"The world does not care for effort only results"

For a moment, silence lingered between father and son.

Then the Duke turned toward the ballroom.

"come. It is time for you to learn how parasites wear noble titles"

As they descended the grand staircase, conversations throughout the ballroom slowly died down.

One by one, nobles bowed.

"Young master"

"What an honor to finally meet the heir of House Evermont."

"My son admired your academic achievements greatly"

"My daughter has spoken of wishing to study at the eastern estate someday"

Their smiles were warm.

Their eyes were calculating.

Lucien Evermont understood that much already.

Young Nobles sons attempted conversation while Nobles ladies hid curious glances behind delicate fans, hoping to gain favour with the future Duke.

Yet Lucien answered only when necessary.

Short replies.

Measured words.

A calm and unreadable face far too cold for someone his age.

Even among grown Nobles, his composure felt unnatural.

"A terrifying child"

"That pressure.....he truly resembles Duke Evermont."

Whisper followed him throughout the night.

And from a far, Valerius silently observed it all.

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