The ballroom was large, beautiful and dazzling. The white walls and ceiling were spotless and practically shined. The beautiful blue carpet covered the entire floor of the venue. Men and women dressed in gorgeous clothes talked, drank or took to the dance floor. The glassed chandeliers and lamps that were hanging from the ceiling and affixed to the walls kept the place bright. Servants walked around with refreshments, tables put on one side were filled with food and an orchestra played soothing music. All in all, the place was grand, first-class and expensive. Everything needed to impress rich people.
When a set of double doors opened along with a loud declaration, everyone turned their heads. Entering the room was the royal family of Troyas. The king and his queen, as well as his son and daughter were bathed in countless gazes. Dressed for the occasion, their authority as the reigning monarchs just oozed from their every action as they walked with an assured gait.
However, what attracted the crowd’s attention the most was the fifth person that was following behind them. Neither royalty nor a noble, it was a beautiful girl that took their breaths away. With black hair glossy like silk, flawless skin as white as virgin snow and charming facial features, her entrance made quite a few faces flush red. It was even more so given that, just like everyone else, she was completely dressed up.
Her hair that was done up in a bun behind her head and braided also had a blue ornament in the shape of a rose. Light makeup was applied on her face, giving her cheeks a rosy color and her lips a deeper red. Her body was clad in a frilly, light blue dress with black linings and long, angel sleeves. Although the attire hid the majority of the young maiden’s skin, it was designed to be more coquettish than modest. As proof, her chest was emphasized and her cleavage peeked out from the deep neckline, causing many males to focus their stares there.
The dazzling beauty was making countless fall in love with her. Or at least, that would be so if not for her long, pointy ears. More than romantic feelings, curiosity and lust budded inside the nobles. Plenty of rumors about a half-elf with mismatched colored eyes serving in the castle had reached them. Some of these men and women had even attended the ball partly to see the elven maid with their own eyes.
However, they never thought she would appear at the ball along with the royal family.
“Ava, you’re a bit stiff. Are you ok?” [Dreck]
“I am fine.” [Ava]
Walking right behind the prince, while bathed in countless gazes, Ava replied with a sleepy-looking expression. However, Dreck noticed the slight difference from her usual attitude. Although lethargic, there was always strength in her voice, but that strength was missing from her. Believing it to be from feeling intimidated by the situation she suddenly found herself in, he glanced at his mother. From the looks of things, getting Ava to participate in the ball had been her goal all along. But, the plan was probably something that she didn’t come up by herself.
“(What are you planning, father?)” [Dreck]
Glancing at his father, Dreck went through various possibilities in his head. The king of Troyas, Glen, often went crazy over the queen’s thighs, but he was a cunning man. As such, there was most likely a reason as to why he dragged Ava into the ball. Words would spread soon after, even though he himself wanted to control information about their elven guest.
“(Could it be…?)” [Dreck]
The ball proceeded as planned. The royal family properly greeted everyone that came over to pay their respects. Eventually, Glen was surrounded by men of high ranks. Standing out because of his black and white attire, red cape and golden crown, the king spoke of the country’s policies with his followers. Louise, donned in a warm yellow dress, kept some women company as they gossiped about anything and everything, gathering information. Lisa, the unmarried princess that was wearing a pink dress, was busy rebuffing many offers of engagements. The same could be said of her brother, who was surrounded by multiple maidens attempting to gain his attention.
“Prince Dreck, what do you think of my dress? It was made by a famous tailor.” [Noble]
“It is quite charming and suits you well. You’re as lovely as a blooming flower.” [Dreck]
“My prince, I’d like your opinion on my diamond necklace. I got my father to buy it for me because it went well with my eyes, but…” [Noble]
“Yes, your father spent his money wisely. It brings out the sparkle in your vivid blue eyes.” [Dreck]
While keeping a smile on his face, Dreck appropriately dealt with all of the girls that were competing with each other. It had already become a routine to him. The women sighed dreamily at his dashing figure that was clad in a red and white suit. He was handsome, good at everything and the future king. Marrying him would make them set for life.
“By the way, my prince, could I ask you something?” [Noble]
“Yes?” [Dreck]
“About the one that followed behind. That-.” [Noble]
“She works in the castle. My family personally hired her.” [Dreck]
“… Oh.” [Noble]
Of course, although making connections with the royal family and getting their favor was important, no one could just ignore the half-elf. But, whenever they inquired about her, their questions would be dodged or given trivial answers.
“Personally hired by the king and queen…?” [Noble]
“Then, is she really working as your personal maid?” [Noble]
“Yes. She’s been very helpful.” [Dreck]
Still, the curious ones could always directly ask the half-elf since she was quietly standing by the wall. But, no one dared do so. The fact that she had entered the ballroom with the royal family had made them wary. If she was favored by their rulers, then a careless approach could cost them.
The event continued with people throwing glances at the unknown girl and exchanging their guesses on her identity. Eventually, Dreck finally managed to escape from the horde of women gunning for him and spoke to Ava.
“Having fun? Though I guess I don’t need to ask that.” [Dreck]
“Why am I here?” [Ava]
“I don’t know. But, why don’t you just enjoy yourself tonight?” [Dreck]
“Yes. Why don’t you enjoy yourself tonight?” [Lennan]
Bravely cutting in from the side was Lennan. People curiously watched as the heir of the Landstral family approached the prince and the half-elf.
“Dreck. You look fine this evening, though not as much as our friend here.” [Lennan]
He gave a rather short and rude greeting to Dreck before turning his full attention to Ava.
“My, what a sight. From the clothes of a maid to the dress of a noble. I did not think that a flower could look as irresistible as you.” [Lennan]
Lennan put a hand to his chest and bowed before gazing into Ava’s eyes.
“You are quite… Desirable this evening.” [Lennan]
“Thanks, I guess.” [Ava]
The half-elf offhandedly accepted his compliment and heated gaze. Her disinterested behavior spiked his interest even more and as he moved in to charm her, Dreck moved in to block his path.
“Lennan, didn’t I tell you keep your bad habits under control?” [Dreck]
The prince of Troyas was smiling, but his gaze was filled with hostility, a telling sign that if the future duke was not careful, he would get hurt.
“Bad habits? I am simply an admirer of beautiful women. Isn’t there a knight that shares my passion?” [Lennan]
“Do you mean Gary? Yes, I thought so as well, but when I mentioned it, he was actually offended, saying that the two of you were utterly different.” [Dreck]
“Oh? Different? How is that so?” [Lennan]
“According to him, while he has certainly likened women to jewels and flowers, you have only ever called them ‘flowers’. Meaning that, to you, loving a woman is just like plucking a plant from the ground. Only that.” [Dreck]
“… Quite the rude knight you have there.” [Lennan]
Dreck and Lennan stared each other down. Tension rose even as they did nothing but grin amicably.
You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.
“Speaking of knights…” [Lennan]
It was Lennan who looked away first, but not because he backed down. Rather, he changed his avenue of attack.
“Your antics of joining in their training and missions despite being a prince are quite famous. Ava, have you heard about it while working in the castle?” [Lennan]
Dreck understood his intentions, which was why his eyes narrowed slightly in irritation.
“The ‘War Prince’, the ‘Ruler of Knights’ and the most comical one… The ‘Prince of Filth’. All titles that popped up as Dreck kept mingling with the knights and rolling in mud during their training. Seeing the future monarch caked in dirt and dust was quite the shock at first.” [Lennan]
Lennan was speaking pleasantly, but the mocking undertone was clear to anyone who heard him.
“Ava, have you had the chance to see the prince live up to his reputation?” [Lennan]
“No, I haven’t.” [Ava]
“Well, that’s a shame. Dreck, you’re not skipping out on training, are you?” [Lennan]
“I take it quite seriously. Thanks to that, I’ve become so strong that no one can match me. Including you.” [Dreck]
“… That is not definite.” [Lennan]
“True. Your family’s been in charge of military matters for generations. Should we have a match sometime?” [Dreck]
“Love to, but I might get hanged for harming royalty.” [Lennan]
“I’ll make sure it doesn’t happen. Though, if your face gets injured, you won’t be able to chase after women anymore.” [Dreck]
“The flowers of this world won’t be going anywhere, unless someone plucks them from right under my nose. Especially the rare and exotic ones.” [Lennan]
As the two handsome men cordially spoke to each other while trying to stab the other using words, Ava stood next to them quietly. From afar, it looked as if the three were acting in a civil and proper manner. They couldn’t tell at all that two of them wanted to mentally crush the other.
“Excuse me. I need to greet some acquaintances.” [Lennan]
Cutting the conversation and showdown short was Lennan who bowed his head slightly and left. He walked around the ballroom, politely dealt with those that talked to him and noted down the women that tickled his fancy.
“Good evening, Princess Lisa.” [Lennan]
He ended up running into the princess again, whom he had already paid his respects to as well as to her parents.
“Good evening, Lord Landstral. Are you enjoying the ball?” [Lisa]
“Yes. I’m honored to have been invited. If I may be so bold, would you grace me with one dance?” [Lennan]
“I apologize, but I am feeling a bit tired.” [Lisa]
“Surely you can accompany me for one slow piece.” [Lennan]
“No, thank you. I must refuse.” [Lisa]
Just like her older brother, Lisa was speaking to Lennan with a smile on her face. However, she wasn’t letting out any sort of friendliness from the look in her eyes and the sound of her voice. The heir of a dukedom could only keep the corners of his lips from falling as he stared at the lovely princess. Although not as talented as Dreck, Lisa had always been quick-witted. In the past, when she was but ten and talks of engagement came up between them, the girl had looked into Lennan’s face and decisively rejected it.
“I don’t want to have a womanizer as my fiancé.” [Lisa]
She bluntly told him such a reason. No matter how nice, gallant or charming he acted, he couldn’t seduce her. But, the young man eventually accepted it since she was that insufferable prince’s younger sister and his cousin. Lennan always managed to get any woman he wanted. Lisa was an exception that he didn’t count. As such, there was only one person that wasn’t attracted to him and wasn’t an exception.
And she was currently dancing with the prince of his country.
“Your brother seems to be having fun.” [Lennan]
Lennan remarked as he watched Dreck and Ava. The two had started dancing together, which sent quite a few people buzzing in curiosity, excitement and outrage. The prince and future king was dancing with a half-elf of unknown origins. Such news would definitely become great gossip material.
“That’s because spending time with Ava is fun. She always has interesting stories to tell.” [Lisa]
Lisa said as her smile widened. From the looks of things, she was also fond of that elven maid. Then again, unlike Lennan, the princess had harbored an interest in other races since young. Meeting an infamous half-elf that possessed gorgeous looks and a peculiar personality probably sent her heart beating in excitement.
“Talking with her is like going on an adventure.” [Lisa]
“Now that does sound fun. I wonder what sort of things she’s seen and where she came from.” [Lennan]
“I don’t know. I didn’t ask her.” [Lisa]
As the two talked while masking information and real intent, a small uproar erupted. It wasn’t anything extreme, just people mockingly laughing. The cause was Ava, who was dancing with Dreck. The half-elf ended up tripping over her feet and her partner had to pull her up to prevent her from falling. Obviously, her blunder wasn’t missed since she was under everyone’s scrutiny.
“(It looks like mother’s dance lessons couldn’t prevent you from feeling nervous.)” [Lisa]
Frowning slightly at the nobles who were making fun of Ava, Lisa saw off the half-elf who was being escorted by her older brother. The two were leaving the ballroom. Lennan also stared at the elven maiden’s retreating figure, but unlike the princess, there wasn’t worry or concern in his eyes. Then, excusing himself, he mixed into the crowd and disappeared from Lisa’s sight.
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“Don’t worry about leaving early and just rest for tonight.” [Dreck]
Having reached Ava’s room, Dreck told her to take it easy.
“I’m sorry for forcing you to take part in that ball. I’ll talk to my parents later so that they don’t do something like this again.” [Dreck]
“It can’t be helped. It was the queen’s request.” [Ava]
“… A rather obedient reply. Surprising, coming from you.” [Dreck]
“From time to time.” [Ava]
Ava shrugged her shoulders and yawned sleepily. The prince, seeing her usual, laidback attitude, smiled bitterly and in relief.
“(Looks like there’s nothing to worry about.)” [Dreck]
The girl had been acting sort of stiff since he saw her all dressed up. Perhaps, her nerves were shot from the ordeal that she was put through. But, seeing her unladylike behavior, he believed that she would be fine. Moreover, to Dreck, it was kind of nice to know that even the carefree Ava could get nervous and make blunders like during their dance.
“Anyway, just rest in your room. We’ll talk more tomorrow.” [Dreck]
“Got it.” [Ava]
“Oh, and one more thing.” [Dreck]
Just as Ava opened her door, Dreck called out to her and moved swiftly. He grabbed her left hand and gently kissed the back before gazing into her eyes of different colors.
“I should have said this sooner, but… You were by far the most beautiful woman in the entire ball.” [Dreck]
He softly brushed his fingers against her cheek.
“A maid’s uniform has its own charm, but I like this look more. Would you wear this for me again sometime?” [Dreck]
“I don’t want to wear a dress.” [Ava]
Dreck said teasingly to which Ava replied sleepily.
“I know. I have to say that I don’t approve of how this dress shows off your skin. Quite a few men were rudely staring.” [Dreck]
He added disapprovingly, pointing out how the deep neckline attracted ill-mannered eyes. Still, that didn’t mean that he could stop himself from staring either.
“I take it back. You should wear this in front of me only.” [Dreck]
And without bothering to hide it, he whispered as such in the half-elf’s ears.
“… What are you doing?” [Ava]
Furthermore, he didn’t retreat, but kept his face close to hers. The smell of her silky hair that had been taken care of by the professional servants filled his lungs. The scent reminded him of confectionaries and forest flowers.
“… At least Lennan was right about one thing…” [Dreck]
It should be a sweet and calming scent, but all it did was numb his brain and rouse his instincts.
“… You are desirable.” [Dreck]
When the capable and handsome prince, who should have been used to women attempting to seduce him, saw Ava all dressed up, he was actually spellbound. It was just like the time he first met her.
As Dreck stared at her beautiful face, his gaze was beginning to focus on her lips. The deep shade of red made them appear more seductive than usual. Or, perhaps that was because of how loudly his heart was beating, telling him to fulfill his various wishes. Her hair was done up and no longer hid the nape of her slender neck that appeared strangely alluring. The dress clung to her narrow waist that seemed fragile and begging to be embrace. The emphasized bosom and the soft-looking valley put on display seemed to urge him to release his inhibitions.
Ava was staring right back at him while tilting her head. Her half-closed eyes, framed by her long eyelashes, captured his face, but didn’t register the danger. The girl couldn’t tell at all that the man in front of her was beginning to change into a hungry beast. She was clueless, defenseless. If Dreck moved, then he could easily carry her in his arms and into her room.
However, the ball wasn’t over. His family was counting on him. There were guests waiting for him. He still needed to tend to his duties, which involved maintaining appearances and acting confident. A prince had many burdens to bear. Although Dreck always found them bothersome, now was the first time that he really wanted to throw them away.
“(Not tonight… But later… I’ll make some time so no one interrupts…)” [Dreck]
Steeling his heart, the man that almost became a wolf closed his eyes, took a deep breath and stepped back.
“I’ll be returning to the ball. Goodnight, Ava.” [Dreck]
Bidding farewell, the brown-haired and agitated prince left without waiting for her reply. If he stayed any longer, then he would probably give in. Ava silently watched him leave before entering her room.
A while later, when there was no one in the vicinity, another person appeared .The beautiful man with platinum blonde hair smiled meaningfully as he stared at the half-elf’s door.
“So this is her room…” [Lennan]
Said person was Lennan Landstral, a veteran when it came to “picking flowers”.
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The sun had set and the sky was dark. However, that didn’t mean that the city had gone to sleep. Relying on the lanterns set along the streets, people were still coming and going. Most of them were looking for nightly entertainment, though.
“Hey! The girl over there! You shouldn’t walk around by yourself at this time!” [???]
A stall owner who was packing up called out to a girl wearing a grey cloak over a warm, dark green dress. The individual was hiding her face with the cloak’s hood, so she looked rather suspicious. But, the middle-aged stall owner had two daughters and his fatherly instincts told him to at least warn the girl for her own safety.
“Hurry up and go home. There are some drunken idiots walking around right about now.” [Stall owner]
The girl approached the nosy stall owner and looked at the wares that were left on the shelves. There were fruits that looked like apples of different colors, oranges and cantaloupes. Besides them were also different goods such as clothing articles, bags and lanterns.
The cloaked individual raised her hood slightly. Peeking from underneath were her eyes that were white and dark brown. A lock of her long, black hair fell down the side of her face. A thick, black bandanna was tied around her head. If one looked carefully, the item hid her ears which, from the shape under the cloth, were long and pointy.
“How much for this purple apple?” [Ava]
It was Ava, who should be resting in the castle instead of walking around the Capital.
“Huh? I’ll give it to you for free. Just hurry up and go home.” [Stall owner]
The stall owner once again warned the fair-skinned beauty, not knowing that she wasn’t human.
“I will, after I’m done shopping.” [Ava]
“Shopping? You looking to buy dresses late at night?” [Stall owner]
“No. Winter clothes and other stuff for traveling. You know any good shops? The last guy overcharged like crazy for a cloak. Damn that baldy.” [Ava]
“Just do it tomorrow. No, wait, travelling? Don’t tell me you’re gonna travel alone? That’s dangerous! There are beasts, bandits and slavers out there!” [Stall owner]
“I won’t be alone. I’ll be traveling with some friends.” [Ava]
Ava said as she bit into the purple apple. Despite its color, it tasted like a normal apple.
“Even let one of them handle my shift at work for today.” [Ava]
“Oi, don’t go slacking off and work properly. What if your friend gets in trouble doing your job?” [Stall Owner]
Ava shrugged her shoulders and bit into the apple again.
“Meh. What could go wrong?… Wait, I shouldn’t have said that.” [Ava]