As the fourth day of their stay in the Crimson Valor Kingdom arrived, Rin and Rei finalized their reports to send back to the Hoshimi Imperial Family. Everything had gone smoothly—perhaps too smoothly—but neither of them would complain about the lack of trouble.
Now, the evening of the ball had arrived.
Waiting for them beside the grand carriage was Takigawa Yoshito, the Grand General of the Empire. His usual stern face held a trace of exasperation as he eyed the pair.
"You," he pointed at Rei, "stay by Rin's side at all times."
Rei huffed, crossing her arms. "I already planned to, Father."
"And avoid unnecessary interactions with other nobles," Yoshito added, glancing warily at Rin. "You know what happens when a single man as well-known as him walks into a ballroom full of noblewomen."
Rin laughed lightly. "You sound very worried, General."
"I am worried," Yoshito grumbled. "Your public image is still that of an unwed Imperial Prince, which makes you the prime target for ambitious noblewomen."
Rei pouted, stepping closer to Rin. "Tch. As if I'd let anyone take my man."
Rin smiled at her possessiveness and, on impulse, gently took her hand. Bringing it to his lips, he placed a soft kiss on her fingers.
Rei's face immediately turned red.
"R-Rin!" she stammered, her grip tightening around his hand.
Yoshito sighed deeply, rubbing his temples. "You two need to control yourselves in public. If the wrong people see this, it could destabilize the Empire."
Rin smirked. "What? We're just two partners from the same Empire attending a ball together. Nothing more, nothing less."
Rei, still flustered, shot him a glare. "Hmph… You're teasing me again."
Yoshito groaned. "The Court of Officials back home would lose their minds if your relationships with the Consorts were exposed. Even if the Imperial Family supports you, the officials will demand their say in the matter."
Rin's expression darkened slightly, but he quickly masked it with his usual smile. "They can say whatever they want. It doesn't change anything."
Yoshito exhaled and shook his head. "Just be careful. I'll be outside the ballroom if you need me."
He gestured toward the carriage.
Rin and Rei stepped inside together. As the doors closed, Rei leaned against Rin's shoulder with a small, contented smile.
"Tonight will be fun," she murmured.
Rin chuckled. "Depends on how you define fun."
As the grand doors of Crimson Manor opened, Rin and Rei stepped into the lavishly decorated ballroom. The golden chandeliers cast a warm glow over the room, illuminating the nobles who had gathered for the event. The air was filled with soft music and the murmurs of conversation, but the moment the pair entered, a shift occurred.
Eyes turned toward them—two distinguished figures from the Hoshimi Empire, a nation with an ancient and powerful lineage.
Rin, dressed in his elegant black and crimson formal attire, exuded a quiet yet imposing presence. Beside him, Rei, the Vermilion Princess Consort, carried herself with the grace of a warrior, her deep red combat dress flowing with each step.
Their entrance naturally commanded attention, but what caught more curiosity was the fact that Rin was acting as Rei's escort for the night.
The Hoshimi Empire was known for its strict traditions, and any association with its Imperial Family was a matter of great significance. Though Rin was merely "the brother of the Crown Prince's fiancée" in the public eye, those who were well-informed knew that his position in the Empire carried far more weight than just that.
And, of course, there were the noblewomen.
Many young noblewomen from various kingdoms whispered behind their fans, stealing glances at Rin. His status, combined with his striking features and composed demeanor, made him an undeniably desirable figure.
Some looked at Rei with curiosity—wondering if there was more to their relationship than what was officially known. Others, however, only saw her as an obstacle to introducing themselves to the mysterious Second Prince.
Rin immediately put on his most detached yet composed expression, ensuring that his demeanor was both respectful yet distant.
A smile too friendly would encourage conversation.
A frown would be impolite.
A neutral, unreadable gaze—perfect defense.
Rei, of course, sensed his shift in attitude almost instantly.
Leaning in slightly, she whispered teasingly, "You're on guard already?"
Rin exhaled quietly. "I'd rather not deal with unnecessary trouble tonight."
Rei chuckled softly. "Well, you are quite the catch. I can see why they're interested."
He glanced at her sideways, his voice laced with amusement. "Should I be worried about my charming partner abandoning me for another dance?"
Rei smirked, tilting her head. "Tch. As if I'd let anyone else have this spot."
Their light exchange went unnoticed by most, but to those paying close attention, the natural chemistry between them was undeniable.
Still, the real challenge had yet to begin.
Tonight, the ballroom was filled with hidden motives, political intrigue, and unspoken tensions. And while neither of them wanted trouble, they both knew that it would eventually find them.
As expected, Rin and Rei quickly became the center of attention. Young nobles from various kingdoms approached them—well, mostly Rin—seeking conversation, introductions, or something more.
Rei, of course, had already anticipated this.
Using her status as the future Vermilion Empress, she made sure that any woman with ulterior motives had little opportunity to get close.
She would smile and politely state, "As one of the next Empresses of the Hoshimi Empire, I owe a great deal to Lord Rin. He has been instrumental in my deepening bond with the Crown Prince, so naturally, I must repay him by keeping him company."
To the untrained ear, it was merely gratitude.
But to any noblewoman with hidden intentions, it was a clear warning.
While Rei was busy defending their space, Rin focused on the more beneficial conversations.
A young Duke from the Southern Dominion approached with his fiancée, bowing politely.
"Prince Rin, it is an honor to meet you. I've heard much about your return to the Hoshimi Empire. Our region has been struggling with bandit raids—what would you advise?"
Rin nodded, his expression thoughtful.
"The Crimson Valor Kingdom has seen success in handling banditry by establishing mobile garrisons that rotate between settlements. Have you considered something similar?"
The Duke's eyes widened. "A rotating guard system? That would reduce predictability…"
His fiancée, an intelligent-looking young woman, added, "But wouldn't that require more resources?"
Rin gave a small smile. "Not necessarily. If you implement a civilian reporting system, villagers can alert garrisons of potential threats. That way, soldiers aren't patrolling blindly."
The Duke seemed deep in thought, clearly impressed.
Rei, standing beside Rin, smirked. Of course, she thought. He's always a step ahead.
While Rin continued discussing military and economic solutions, a particularly persistent noblewoman—the daughter of a high-ranking Earl—attempted to engage him.
She stepped forward, her dress shimmering in the candlelight, and placed a delicate hand on her chest.
"Prince Rin," she began sweetly, "it must be tiring, handling so many conversations. Perhaps you'd like to step out onto the balcony for some fresh air?"
Before Rin could even think of responding—
Rei stepped in, smiling.
"Oh, my! That's such a kind offer," she said cheerfully, looping her arm around Rin's. "But unfortunately, he promised to accompany me tonight. You understand, don't you?"
The noblewoman's smile faltered. "Of course, Lady Rei, but surely—"
Rei tilted her head, still smiling but with a hint of sharpness in her eyes.
"Besides," she added, "it would be improper for an unmarried noblewoman to be alone with my dear future brother-in-law. We wouldn't want rumors, would we?"
The Earl's daughter stiffened, knowing full well that rumors could ruin a lady's reputation.
With a forced laugh, she curtsied. "Of course, Lady Rei. I wouldn't dare."
As she hurried away, Rin turned his head slightly, whispering to Rei, "You're enjoying this too much."
Rei smirked, giving him a sidelong glance. "Naturally. Do you know how annoying it is watching other women throw themselves at you?"
Rin chuckled softly, shaking his head. "It's not as if I encourage it."
Rei sighed dramatically. "You don't have to. That calm, mysterious prince act does it for you."
Rin exhaled. "Then should I scowl more?"
Rei laughed. "Oh no, that would just make them more interested."
Despite the external pressure, the two fell into their natural rhythm—protecting each other, as they always had.
And just like that, the night continued, with Rin earning respect from allies and Rei warding off opportunists with ease.
The moment finally arrived—the grand introduction of the graduates of the Crimson Valor Academy.
Crown Prince Julius and Elias Gawad stood on the podium, their presence commanding attention. As expected, they were showered with flattery from the surrounding nobles, their egos being carefully polished by empty words.
Rin, standing beside Rei, observed it all with calm detachment. How easy it is to please them… he mused.
However, soon enough, the two young nobles turned their attention toward Rin and Rei.
As they approached, Rin sighed internally, already anticipating what was about to happen. Despite maintaining formal etiquette, their intent was clear—they wanted to challenge him.
Elias spoke first, his tone laced with mild disdain.
"Prince Rin, you were quite reserved during your visit. One would think a member of the Hoshimi Imperial Family would showcase their strength in combat."
Rei took a step forward, already displeased at their interrupting Rin's ongoing discussion with foreign nobles. But before she could say anything, Rin simply raised a hand, stopping her in place.
His expression remained neutral as he replied.
"There was no need for me to waste energy when I had important matters to attend to. I came to the Crimson Valor Academy on official duties, not to put on a show."
Julius scoffed slightly, crossing his arms.
"I was quite disappointed. It's rare for us to meet another royal of similar age, yet you did not even bother to participate in our academy's training. The Crimson Valor Kingdom values strength above all."
At that, murmurs spread through the ballroom.
Many nobles exchanged glances, clearly intrigued by the confrontation. These two newly recognized nobles had never experienced a formal social event with foreign aristocracy—and it was beginning to show.
Their words carried an undeniable challenge, but more than that, they exposed their narrow worldview.
To them, Rin's reluctance to duel had been a sign of weakness.
To those observing the exchange, however, it was something else entirely—a test of diplomacy and restraint.
Instead of being offended, Rin simply smiled.
But that smile was sharp—like a blade hidden behind silk.
His voice was calm, yet his words cut through their arrogance.
"Why does that matter?" he asked, tilting his head slightly.
The question was so simple, yet it immediately silenced the murmurs.
Rin's golden eyes flickered with cold amusement as he continued.
"The world isn't just the Crimson Valor Kingdom. Are you trying to imply that my way of living is something the world won't accept?"
The two young nobles stiffened.
"Are you saying that the many nobles here, who excel in fields beyond combat, are somehow inferior to you?"
That statement made several foreign nobles straighten up—nodding in agreement.
Elias and Julius, for the first time, hesitated.
But Rin wasn't finished.
His nonchalant tone sent a chilling message.
"You two are merely little birds who have just learned to fly… but the sky is vast. The world will not bend to your values simply because you will it to."
Gasps spread across the room.
The way he said it—it wasn't just an insult.
It was pity.
Julius clenched his fists, but before he could argue, Rin continued.
"Tell me… What is it you expect me to do? Should I leave?"
His voice remained calm, but unwavering.
"If I am not welcome in this kingdom, then say so plainly. I was under the impression that we were invited—as were all the nobles here. We came because it is our duty as aristocrats to maintain diplomatic ties, yet it seems you do not take lightly to those who are not skilled in combat."
The murmurs in the crowd grew stronger.
Because Rin had cleverly shifted the focus.
Most of the nobles present were not warriors.
They were diplomats, scholars, strategists, and rulers.
By insinuating that Julius and Elias were dismissing them as lesser, he had subtly placed them on the defensive.
The two young nobles paled slightly as they realized their misstep.
Rin, still smiling, dismissed the matter entirely.
"That said, I will overlook your words today. Consider this a lesson—when the time comes, you will learn that strength alone is not enough to survive in this world."
And with that, he gestured for them to leave.
It was an undeniable dismissal.
Julius and Elias, stunned, had no choice but to step back.
For the first time, they saw a glimpse of the real Rin—the one who was far sharper than he appeared.
As the tension in the room settled, Rin casually returned to his discussion with the foreign nobles as if nothing had happened.
Rei, however, was staring at him.
A smirk played on her lips as she leaned slightly toward him, whispering just loud enough for only him to hear.
"You really looked like Akane for a moment there."
Rin exhaled, not even looking at her. "Is that a compliment?"
Rei chuckled softly.
"Oh, absolutely."
Then, after a slight pause, she added in an even softer whisper—
"That was hot."
Rin sighed.
Without missing a beat, he simply continued his conversation with the other nobles—as if the entire exchange had been nothing more than an afterthought.
The two began to move in sync, stepping into the formal rhythm of the dance.
Despite the elegant distance required for noble decorum, Rei couldn't help but feel slightly dissatisfied. If not for their secret relationship, she would have pulled him closer—let the world see who she belonged to.
But for now, she settled for this.
As they danced, she chuckled. "Those two really thought they could bring you down, huh?"
Rin exhaled. "That was probably your fault."
Rei raised a brow. "My fault?"
"You were too eager to fight them." Rin smirked. "You fought Elias while I didn't, so naturally, they assumed I was weak."
Rei scoffed. "Like I'd pass up a good fight. Besides, I always lose to either you or Empress Hikari. You two never hold back."
"And yet, because of that, you've reached a level of swordsmanship equal to Suzuki's master-tier in magic," Rin noted.
Rei pouted. "Ugh, don't compare me to Suzuki."
Rin sighed. "I treat you all equally. Besides, you four don't fight much since I make sure to give each of you proper attention. I actually admire each of your strengths."
Rei narrowed her eyes. "You make it sound so convincing."
Still, after a brief pause, she softened.
"We've all come so far."
Her voice held a quiet fondness as she reminisced.
"When I first met you, you were still the First Apprentice of the White Elder. I remember being shocked when Kazuo called you 'brother' on the seventh day of the Imperial Courtship. Seriously… to think I would fall for a commoner—only to find out he was actually a hidden prince."
Rin chuckled. "I knew you fell for me when Harumi and I visited your palace to check on its barrier."
Rei raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"
Rin smirked. "I expected Miharu or Suzuki to look at me like that first, but… the moment you stared at me with those longing eyes, I felt like another blade was placed on my neck. Of course, back then, I was still in my Shimuzu Rin persona."
Rei clicked her tongue. "Tch. I should apologize for falling for you, then."
She pinched his side lightly, but Rin didn't even flinch. They continued their steps effortlessly, as if the entire world around them was merely an illusion.
"It's crazy, isn't it?" Rei murmured. "Everything changed in less than a year."
Her voice softened as she spoke the next words.
"That said… I love you, Rin."
She smiled.
"I'm glad things turned out this way."
Rin sighed.
Rei pouted. "What? No 'I love you' back?"
Rin hesitated, then spoke honestly.
"I can't."
Rei's expression faltered slightly. "Why?"
Rin looked at her. "Because… I'm still confused about my own feelings."
For a moment, there was silence.
Then, Rei let out a soft exhale. "This is about the Golden Princess, isn't it?"
Rin's eyes widened slightly. "You knew?"
Rei nodded. "Of course I did."
She lowered her voice, whispering something only he could hear.
"We four were given a mission by the Four Empresses—to seduce you. To keep you from choosing to leave and follow your fate."
Rin tensed.
"If you follow that fate, you will die."
Her grip on his hand tightened. "We don't want that, Rin."
Rin closed his eyes for a brief moment before opening them again.
"I'm not seeking death, Rei." His voice was steady. "I just… believe that the Golden Princess will have answers. I don't know why I'm walking a different path in this life, but I feel like I must meet her. If I were the same as before, I would have never tried to get along with you four."
He looked into her eyes. "But right now, it feels like… I need to make sure that you, Suzuki, Miharu, and Akane are happy."
Rei bit her lip.
Her voice was barely above a whisper.
"I don't want to lose you, Rin."
She looked down.
"You're the only one I want to love."
Rin gently squeezed her hand. "I'll try not to die, Rei."
Then, with a quiet resolve—
"I'll decide when I meet the Golden Princess."
Rei inhaled sharply, then exhaled. She gave him a small, bittersweet smile.
"Please… choose us, Rin."
The music faded.
Their dance came to an end.
Without a word, Rin reached into his pocket and pulled out a handkerchief.
Gently, he handed it to Rei.
She blinked, slightly surprised. "What's this for?"
"You're sweating."
Rei huffed, taking it with an adorable pout. "You really know how to kill the mood, Rin."
Rin merely chuckled as he stepped away, leaving her standing there—clutching the handkerchief like a fragile moment she didn't want to let go of.