As night fell, the royal palace lit up with a dazzling glow. Inside, it was filled with nobles and important figures who had gathered, chatting and laughing together.
Servants dressed in matching uniforms moved silently, attending to the guests. Princess Diana sat by a window overlooking the capital, wearing a blue gown. Her black hair was tied back in a sleek ponytail, making her striking green eyes even more captivating. The king and queen stood nearby, laughing and conversing with their ministers.
Albert sat next to Diana. He wore a brown suit that looked worn—not expensive, but clearly dear to him. His hair was combed and slicked back, glistening as though he'd used gel or something similar. A nervous smile played on his face. This was the first time he had been invited to Diana's birthday not as her knight, but as her friend and companion.
The hall was magnificent, with towering gilded ceilings, massive floating chandeliers, and columns made of white marble. The polished floor shimmered with reflected magical light, enhancing the beauty of the celebration.
Albert glanced around nervously, then turned to Diana and said,
"I'm really glad you invited me."
Diana, still enjoying a slice of chocolate cake, looked at Albert across from her and replied,
"Don't say that. The mistake was mine for only ever inviting you as my knight before. From now on, you'll be here as my friend and companion."
Albert raised his eyebrows, surprised by the sudden change. A bead of sweat appeared on his forehead, which he wiped away with a handkerchief. Then he asked,
"Can I ask what brought on this change?"
Diana gave a faint smile and said,
"I want to give up my claim to the throne. I want to start a life without politics."
Albert was stunned. He responded, a bit too loudly,
"But… is it worth it?"
Diana paused for a moment, looking into Albert's eyes, and replied softly,
"It's not that simple. Even if I give up my claim, it doesn't mean I'll be completely free of political ties. But at least I'll have control over my own life. I won't have to marry someone I don't love. And that alone makes it worth it."
Albert lowered his head and said in a quiet voice,
"If this is your decision, I fully support you. No matter where you go, or what happens—I'll always be by your side. You won't be alone."
Diana glanced toward the nobles mingling and talking, including the king and queen, then said,
"Look at them, Albert. They're all fake. Always wearing masks, doing whatever it takes to climb higher—even if it means dragging down thousands of others."
Then she turned her eyes back to Albert, and the look she gave him resembled love. A kind of forbidden love—like the forbidden fruit in paradise.
"But look at you, Albert. You're not like any of them. When you see injustice, you act—even without thinking of the consequences. You show kindness without expecting anything in return. You forgive because you understand. That's what sets you apart from every other person I've met. You're special, Albert."
Albert looked down, then smiled and said,
"I always try to do the right thing—not just for me, but for you. You and my sister are the only people I have in this world."
Meanwhile, in another corner of the hall, Charles sat alone. He wore a black suit, his thoughts distant as he stared out the window at the capital. He seemed unaware of his surroundings, lost in his own world.
A few people called out to him, but he didn't respond until a man gently placed a hand on his shoulder. Charles turned and saw a man around 60, with brown eyes, white hair, and a crooked smile.
"Lord Charles, it seems your thoughts were elsewhere."
The man laughed in a way Charles found mocking. It was clear from Charles' expression that he didn't like him, but he still managed a faint smile and said,
"It's an honor to meet you here, Lord Hilt—or should I say, Duke Hilt."
Hilt smirked and puffed out his chest slightly as he said in a smooth, slightly sarcastic tone,
"I see you're still the same as ever. Actually, I wanted to discuss a certain matter with you."
Charles paused, then nodded and replied,
"You have my attention. I'm listening."
Before speaking, Hilt gestured for a servant to come forward. He picked up two glasses of wine and offered one to Charles. Then he said,
"I'm planning to start a new business. I want to open several gold mines in the mountains near Sepida. I've heard they're rich with mana crystals and gold. Of course, it'll be a costly venture, so I thought you'd make the perfect partner. What do you think?"
Charles stared into Hilt's eyes for a moment, then responded coolly,
"Thank you for the offer, but I must decline."
Hilt looked surprised, raised his hand slightly, and said in a louder voice,
"But why? I don't make offers like this to just anyone."
Charles let out a soft sigh and calmly replied,
"There are several reasons why your venture would fail. The terrain near Sepida isn't suitable for mining. It poses risks both financially and to the lives of the workers. Plus, those mountains are home to various monsters, making access even more dangerous."
Hilt clenched his fist in frustration. Charles noticed and began walking away. As he passed Hilt, he said,
"Have a good day, Duke Hilt."
Charles slowly made his way toward Diana to pay his respects. As he approached, he said softly,
"Princess Diana."
Diana turned to see him, stood up, and smiled. Charles bowed slightly and kissed her hand. In return, Diana dipped into a small curtsy, holding the sides of her gown, and said,
"It's a pleasure to have you here. You rarely attend these gatherings."
Charles smiled and, with a calm tone that carried a sense of peace, replied,
"It's my honor to be part of your celebration and your joyful moments."