With cautious eyes, Vincent observed Cassandra. Her lighthearted manner was always a cover for something more. Vincent sensed the strands of her web tightening around him, like a spider weaving its web. However, he had no intention of becoming the victim.

"Swimming is beneficial on its own," Vincent said with a smooth response and intently flashing eyes. "But I never turn down an offer for capable company."

Cassandra maintained her smile without wavering. In fact, it got deeper. "Are they a capable company? Vincent, I like to believe that I'm more than that." Her voice faltered slightly. "Especially when the waters are murky."

With a low laugh, Vincent moved closer with purpose. "The real treasure can only be found in murky waters. Lady Revelle, you ought to be the most knowledgeable person to know that.

Though there was a calculating gleam behind them, Cassandra's eyes flickered with laughter. "And all this time, I believed you to be the Crown Prince with all power at your disposal. Or do you think you're looking for something more profound?"

The people in their immediate vicinity appeared to move, and a new person came into view before Vincent could reply. The ballroom was entered by a tall, imposing man with jet-black hair and piercing blue eyes. He was Commander Lysander, the most feared and respected strategist in the military. Suddenly, it seemed like the whole room was focused on him, just by virtue of his commanding presence.

Vincent's eyes went a little narrower. Why was Lysander in this place?

His thoughts appeared to be read by Lady Cassandra. Whispering, her breath was almost inaudible, "The Commander wasn't on the guest list." Of all nights, it's interesting to see how he looks now. Vincent, there's something cooking."

Vincent could already feel the change. Attending such pointless gatherings without a valid reason wasn't something the Commander did. The presence of Lysander could only indicate that someone within the empire was rearranging pieces on a much grander board than this ballroom.

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Vincent turned away from Cassandra and grinned nonchalantly as he moved in the Commander's direction. "It appears the night holds more surprises than anticipated."

The Commander faced Lysander with a steely resolve as he walked up to him. "Prince Amsberg," Lysander said, his tone elegant yet tinged with danger. "It seems your gathering is the place to be tonight."

"Commander," Vincent triumphantly made his way back. "I didn't expect the military to take an interest in a mere gala."

Lysander's mouth quirked. Any activity that might cause the empire to become unstable is of interest to the military. In addition, there seems to have been a lot of stirring lately, from what I hear."

Although his thoughts were racing, Vincent stayed composed. It wasn't by accident that Lysander was present. There was somebody with eyes and ears inside the palace who was providing the Commander with information.

In a tone of measured confidence, Vincent said, "I assure you that everything is under control." "My plans are all aligned with Avalonia's best interests."

Lysander moved in closer, a slight shadow falling over Vincent due to his massive stature. Prince Amsberg, I sincerely hope so. You'll discover that not everyone is prepared to let go of the past if you intend to change the course of Avalonia's future.

Casting Lysander a sidelong glance, Vincent grinned icily. "That's exactly what I'm counting on."

Lysander nodded once, almost as if in agreement, after maintaining eye contact with him for a moment longer. Then he turned and vanished into the sea of nobility without saying another word, leaving a lingering feeling of unease in his wake.

With her smile as bright as ever, Cassandra reappeared at Vincent's side. Alright, that was thought-provoking. Vincent, it appears that there are a lot of people with big plans for tonight besides you."

Vincent didn't answer right away. He was already racing through his mind, coming up with fresh plans and figuring out every angle. Although it created more complications, the unexpected arrival of Commander Lysander also provided opportunities. His route to power would be even more straightforward if he could convince Lysander to support him, or at the very least, eliminate the Commander's threat.

With a tone of dark humor, Vincent said, "Lady Revelle," in a quiet voice. "I believe it's time we took this night to the next level."

Curiosity causing Cassandra to arch her eyebrow. "Oh. "And what suggestion do you make?"

Vincent's expression turned slyly smiley. Now is the moment for us to take action. Who else in the room wants to play our game? Let's find out."