Akane and Mordred returned discreetly to the reception hall, slowly regaining the lively, tumultuous atmosphere of the royal party. No sooner had they entered than they separated, aware that every second together increased the risk of suspicion. Mordred barely had time to take a few steps away when Elystria's graceful yet imperious figure appeared directly in front of him, staring at him with a coldly suspicious gaze.
- Mordred, where have you been?" she asked, her low, icy voice betraying a hint of restrained anger.
Maintaining impeccable composure and an inscrutable face, Mordred replied with quiet assurance:
- I was simply looking for a discreet corner to avoid the hostile glances that everyone keeps throwing at me, Princess. I guess I'm not the most popular toy at this party.
The princess squinted slightly, as if assessing the veracity of his words, before finally letting out a light sigh, relaxing imperceptibly:
