Count Saerus was sitting down on a chair, in front of him was a mirror. He was ready for the party about to take place later, his hair was combed neatly, and he was in his finest formal clothes. It was a gathering, and as any event, it should be a time for celebration, and joy. However, such positive feelings were not evident on his face at all.

He looked at himself, his heart beating heavily. His knees felt weak. The apprehension taking all over his body. In order to relieve himself of such a terrible feeling, he took a shaking, deep breath. But that eased nothing.

He placed a hand on his chest, or to be precise, over his chest pocket. He felt the small vial. The temptation of running away crossed his mind. Perhaps he didn’t have to do this. Perhaps he could just disobey. Save his life.

However, what about his family? Should he run with them? To where? His contacts were unreachable. And with the palace looking his way, it would be impossible. The knights will all be sent to hunt them down. And this time, they won’t be as merciful.

If he turned back now, the princess might conduct what she mentioned. Saerus could not imagine such a fate to befall his family. Still, to think the princess could be that cruel. No one could have imagined such an innocent face to have a will to command something horrendous.

His hand trembled. There was still time if he was to change his mind. Until he stands in front of everyone.

The door to the room opened. “Saer, are you alright, my love?”

He faked his composure and turned around to face his wife. She wore a magnificent blue and yellow gown, her hair decorated with small gemstones. Her hair was tied beautifully. She was gorgeous. “I’m alright. Although honestly, I do feel a bit nervous.”

“... I understand. It’s quite the pressure to host a gathering like this.”

“Yes…”

“Anyhow, it’s time to go down. The guests are about to arrive.”

“Yes.” He faked a smile.

He rose from his seat and, with his wife, they headed for the ballroom entrance. His two children were already there.

His daughter, Aeli, was wearing a beautiful and fitting blue and white gown. Her hair was decorated with gold and small colorful flowers, expressing intense youth. His son, Adin, wore a formal but gallant looking suit, his hair combed back, and he smiled with handsome charm.

“You two look great,” Saerus said. “Are you ready to greet the guests?”

“Yes, father,” his daughter replied.

“By the way, father, what is this party for? Care to tell us now what the announcement is exactly?”

What Saerus told his family, as well as in the invitations, that he had something mysterious and important to announce. That was true, because he was indeed announcing something important. He just never explicitly told what, he didn’t know how to tell them. Or rather, he should never tell them something like that.

“Just wait.” That was all he said, and he prompted them to be formal and present themselves well to the guests.

A moment later, the first guests arrived. Saerus at the front greeted them first, the lord and lady of the nearby domain. The noble household that Saerus has a close relationship with. That said, he wondered if they had been converted to betray Wisteria like he had. However, that was doubtful. They were loyal to the kingdom, so possibly not.

After some traditional greeting and handshaking, the pair of guests headed inside.

Another came, this time he was alone. Not every member of the family could attend after all. But that was fine. There was no requirement of a minimum family member. What’s important was there’s a representative.

A new guest arrived, this one Saerus heard that many things were going on in his territory. Pretty much the same as Saerus’s. So he suspected that this noble was colluding with the Empire. But he was uncertain. Although, the palace definitely had this noble’s name on the list.

In the end, he was not Saerus’s concern now.

The next one that arrived was another Count, from the Welford household. Their relationship was not exactly too close, just neutral. Although, he had to admit, there may be a tiny amount of tension when they sometimes meet. All may be because they were of the same rank, and both had the goal of rising. However, Count Welford’s ambition was not as great as Saerus’s.

Like the rest, their interaction was brief, as Saerus would have to greet other upcoming guests. The time for talks will come later during the party where everyone could freely mingle. The princess said to save his announcement for last. Almost like she wanted everyone to have some enjoyable time before he ruins everything.

And then, another guest arrived, and Saerus stiffened slightly. It was Marquis Teristro.

With an inevident begrudge, Saerus greeted him and the Marquis greeted back.

“I’ve been looking forward to this party ever since your invitation.” He looked at Saerus’s wife and his children. “Good evening to you.”

“Lord Teristro,” Emilyn said. “It’s a pleasure to meet you again.”

“Likewise. Are you all faring alright?”

“Yes. Although we do not know my husband’s announcement, I’m certain it is something good. So I’m excited.”

“Oh?” He faced Saerus. “I too am excited to see and hear your announcement. Then, if you’ll excuse me.” With that, he continued onward inside.

Saerus subtly gulped. He was basically saying to do what was expected of him. He was here to make sure things go smoothly, and for Saerus to commit. Saerus had to wonder if they already have men prepared in case he refuses.

Time passed, and more guests arrived. There were a couple more Marquis that came. He invited all of the Marquis, as he was instructed. However, it would seem he did not interest the most of them.

That said, the Maquis that arrived were the lords, and them alone. One was Marquis Natarel, and the other was Marquis Veinhel.

Eventually, no further guests arrived. Saerus looked at the ballroom, the guests almost filled the room. And it was starting to become noisy. This was enough. Enough witnesses. If there were any other guests to arrive, the servants would greet and guide them inside, so there was nothing to worry about. The door will also remain open.

He urged his family to enter, the guests gradually turned silent as the hosts stood at the center of the room. All their attention directed at Saerus as the head of the family.

He smiled. “Thank you everyone for coming. I am sincerely honored and glad to have you tonight. From the invitation, you know that there will be an announcement that I will give. But,” he chuckled. “Let’s leave that for last.”

Everyone chuckled with him.

“Even my family doesn’t know what it’s about. That tells you something, I suppose.”

Everyone looked at each other, nodding and whispering. All in all, they were highly anticipating the announcement. Even his family was ever so curious and excited. Because, after all, with how magnificent the party was, surely the announcement was the same. However, that only made him more apprehensive.

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“So please, until it’s time, experience and enjoy the party at your leisure. Fill your bellies and catch up with friends we have not met for a long time. I had with me the finest musicians to play us melodies, dance on the floor if you so wished.”

A servant came to him and offered a glass of wine. Saerus raised the glass. “Cheers for a pleasant night!”

“Cheers!” Everyone said in chorus and sipped their wines.

Saerus involuntarily glanced at Teristro, the latter slightly raised his glass at him and smirked. Trying to keep himself composed, Saerus looked away to face his family. “Aeli, how about you talk with the aristocratic daughters that came? Make friends or connections.”

“Yes, father. I’ve been meaning to.” With that, she left to join the other young ladies.

“As for me,” Adin said. “I’ll talk to Lord Teristro.”

That alarmed Saerus. “For what?”

“About joining the palace knights. Maybe he could give me tips and pointers. And maybe he could help me join.”

“... Very well.”

Saerus felt a little prick in his heart, his son dreamt of becoming a noble knight. However, with what his father had done, it would be impossible. The crown would not allow the son of a traitor to go near them. Unless they prove themselves. But that would only happen if they were allowed.

The exact future of his beloved family was a mystery to him, but at least they would live.

With his father’s permission, Adin walked over to the Marquis.

***

Fancy and pleasant melodies played and echoed all over the ballroom. Couples danced, young and old, on the center floor. Everyone was pleased.

Saerus, along with his wife, was talking with a couple of lords from the nearby domains.

“Bandits have been scrambling all over the place,” said one. “But I noticed that their numbers have dwindled.”

“Indeed,” added another. “They are scattered, it seems, they split up into smaller groups.”

“They must be going somewhere, right?”

“Who knows, they’re vagabonds, they go anywhere.”

“Honestly, I don’t care. As long as they’re causing no problems, there’s nothing to worry about.”

“The common people have also been hearing of what’s going on. With the palace sending their knights to clear the scums out.”

“They’re singing praises.”

One noble turned to Saerus. “Have things turned better here as well, Count?”

He nodded. “Things seemed to have calmed down, but I still can’t say for certain.”

“Nothing is for certain, yet,” added Saerus’s wife. “It’s winter, bandits could also be preparing for the season.”

“I see. Wouldn’t that also mean they should ramp up their attacks?”

“I guess so. But, it’s best not to lower our guard just yet. The palace is mainly eradicating bandits close to the capital. That could make the surviving bandits come to us instead.”

“That could also happen…”

“We just have to be ready then,” said the other lord. “But may we shift topic? I’ve been meaning to talk to you about this, Count Farrimond.”

“What is it?”

“As you are aware, I have a son a year older than your daughter. For a better prospect of both our family’s future, would it be possible for them to meet?”

Saerus lowered his gaze to ponder. “The kindling of flame is not always certain.”

“Indeed. But, I want to help my son. He’s been too focused on his skills and gaining experience, I fear that he may experience what a life is too late. Also, he’s shy, so that makes things difficult for him to meet with complete strangers.”

“So you’re hoping with our family’s connection it will be easier for him to talk to strangers?”

“A little easier, yes.”

“Quite young but already diligent and extremely responsible.”

The noble proudly smiled. “But even those have drawbacks, apparently.”

“... Very well, if you want to, they can meet next time.”

“Thank you.”

Saerus looked at the nearby clock. “I have to go in the meantime.” He gestured for a servant to come and he said. “Please call my children to gather at our table.”

“Is it time, my love?” his wife asked.

“Not exactly, I have something to tell you.”

The two excused themselves and moved over to their family table, where shortly after, both their children arrived.

“Did you two have a productive time?” he asked them.

“Yes, father. Our conversations were fun.”

“I learned a lot from Lord Teristro.”

“That’s good. I called for you here because I have something I want you to do.”

“For the two of us?” asked Aelin.

“No, for the three of you.”

“Me included?” The wife looked surprised.

Saerus nodded. “Please go to the garden in the back, I’m sure you’ll find something pleasant. After that, come back here.”

“Why, what is it?”

“You’ll find out once you get there. So, please?”

“An elaborate surprise, I see.”

“I suppose…” He forced a smile.

And with that, they left the ballroom, expecting to find something, but in truth there was nothing. Saerus just didn’t want his family to witness what he was about to commit. Once his family was out of sight, and he deemed it safe, Saerus rose from his seat and stood at the center of the room.

He gestured for the musicians to stop, and when the busy nobles realized this, they stepped to the side and gradually quieted down.

Saerus took a deep breath before speaking out. “Firstly, again thank you everyone for coming. And thank you for your patience. I hope everyone had a great time.”

The people nodded and murmured positively.

Saerus continued. “And now, I will tell you what this gathering is for. What I will say to everyone present, and hopefully spread throughout Wisteria.”

He paused, his chest tight and heart thumping painfully. “There is no announcement. This is my confession.”

The people looked at each other in confusion.

“I have betrayed Wisteria.”

The aristocrats looked on with wide eyes, but still could not comprehend what was going on exactly.

“I sabotaged our beloved home kingdom. I crippled my domain’s food supply, allowing the bandits’ rampage to go mostly unpunished. I cast away my allegiance to Wisteria for another. All for myself and my ambitions. I have fallen into temptation, bit on the fruit our enemies dangled in front of me.”

A noble stepped forward. “ — Count, what are you talk—”

He held out his hand. “Please, allow me to finish.” he closed his eyes for a moment. “Still, despite how much I tried to hide it, the palace discovered my treachery. And I realized, no one can hide their secrets from the palace, especially those who strive to threaten our homes. It was utter foolishness to go against the palace and the kingdom.”

He was reminded of the princess that so bravely stood in front of him. One whose powers went beyond his expectations. The current king could not commit and ask something like this, nor could they have discovered what was happening behind the scenes. Only she could see it, only she could do what was necessary for the kingdom.

That young lady was one cruel enough to threaten his family. And that was to be feared. Those with the greatest wills could commit the greatest atrocities. Trying to hide one’s evil acts in her eyes was utter foolishness indeed.

“And now, I warn you who betrays Wisteria. You cannot hide. They know. Change your path now before it’s too late. Before you become like me. To show my commitment to my home once more, I must carry out my own punishment.”

Saerus pulled out a small vial from his coat pocket, inside was a green liquid. But he hid it inside his palm, hiding it from everyone.

“I have been granted this mercy. To reclaim my honor as a citizen of Wisteria.” He took a deep breath, hesitating for a moment. He glanced at Teristro, he was merely staring at him with anticipation. “Mercy comes to those who regret. Those who do not shall feel the wrath of the gods.”

He flicked the cork off the vial. “Long live Wisteria!”

“What are you!?”

“Don’t!”

Too late, before they could even stop him, Saerus gulped down the green poison. Instantly, he felt the burn in his mouth, coming down his throat, then to his stomach. He tasted blood, and foam rose from his throat. Everything turned blurry as he slowly collapsed.

The pain was excruciating, spreading all over his body. A quick acting lethal poison. A fitting end for a traitor. Where he will suffer first before death. Even how brief it may be, for the person it felt like it lasted for hours.

The nobles turned frantic, the ladies that witnessed such an atrocious act yelped and screamed in horror. The sounds echoed in his ears, growing distant.

At least his family didn’t see this.

And with that, he was satisfied. His short suffering was nothing compared to that.

This was what she wanted. He has fulfilled his script in the show. And now, like an actor who has finished his role, he must disappear and go.

Here, Count Saerus Farrimond died by his own hands.

***

Emilyn, Adin and Aeli arrived in the back garden. A place full of flowers, lit up only by the nearby lamps and the faint light of the moon in the early winter.

“Where did father want us exactly?” Aeli asked.

“There must be something around here.”

“Let’s search for it, children. It could be a box or anything.”

They expected it to be some sort of gift. Still Emilyn found it strange, Saerus was never this elaborate with this kind of thing.

They searched the area, but there was nothing to find here but flowers and benches. Definitely, there was nothing.

“Did he bury it?” said Adin.

“Did we miss it somehow?” Aeli sighed in frustration.

“What do we even mean to find?”

Moments later, a servant along with a couple of guards suddenly came sprinting in the garden. “Milady! Milady! Countess!” the servant shouted, panic evident in his voice.

“What is it!? What’s going on?” Emilyn frantically responded.

The servant and the guards were completely shaken.

“Is there trouble?”

“Thank the gods I found you! It’s the Count. He… I’m sorry.”

“W-What happened?”

“The Count… took his own life.”

“What…? That can’t be true…”

“Please come to the ballroom.”

“But why?”

Emilyn hesitated, there was no way something ridiculous could happen. He would never do something so terrible. She froze where she stood, fearing what she may find in the ballroom could destroy her denial.

“Mother! We have to go.” Aeli tried pulling her hand.

Adin was already running away inside.

With Aeli forcing her to walk, they eventually arrived at the ballroom. The people gathered.

And on the floor was her husband, completely dead. His eyes emptily opened as they stared at her.