𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐕𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒' 𝐅𝐀𝐈𝐓𝐇𝐅𝐔𝐋 𝐃𝐎𝐆 | 𝘷𝘢𝘥𝘵𝘥 𝘹 𝘔.𝘺/𝘯 |

(36) Acquaintances Unknown.

"........," 

After finalizing the banquet details with Ron, I embarked on a mission to find Alissa.

The library, its comforting scent of aged paper a familiar thing by now, was where I discovered her.

Curled up on the plush carpet, she was lost in a book, a world of words painted on her face.

"Alissa, sweetheart,"

I called softly, Bun-bun trailing behind me like a shadow.

Her head snapped up, a radiant smile blossoming as she saw me.

"Papa!"

She exclaimed, abandoning her book in a flurry of excitement and launching herself into my arms for a hug.

"I was just wondering when you'd come find me,"

She mumbled into my chest, her voice muffled by the fabric of my jacket.

Gently pulling back, I ruffled her hair with a playful smile.

"I have a banquet to attend for the Crown Prince,"

I explained, gauging her reaction.

"I'll be back tonight, alright?"

A frown creased her forehead, her bottom lip jutting out in a pout.

"But Papa, I want to come with you,"

She protested, disappointment tinging her voice.

"Honey, it's not the kind of place you'd enjoy,"

I reasoned, trying to paint the event as something less exciting.

"Just a stuffy room filled with grown-ups and boring conversations." 

There was also the matter of the Crown Prince – a whole special case.

Sensing the shift in mood, Bun-bun nudged my leg with his soft head, offering silent comfort.

"But Bun-bun will be here with you,"

I reassured her, glancing down at the ever-present bunny.

Though her disappointment lingered, she eventually conceded with a small nod.

"Alright, Papa. Just be safe, okay?"

"Always, sweetheart,"

I promised, squeezing her tight before letting her go.

"........," 

With a sigh, I pushed open the heavy doors leading into the banquet hall.

A wave of noise and grandeur washed over me – a cacophony of chatter, laughter, and the clinking of glasses filled the air.

My entrance, announced with a flourish, was met with a collective turning of heads before everyone retreated back into their conversations.

"Yo,(Y/N)! Long time no see, man!"

My gaze scanned the crowd of faces as I heard my name being called, finally landing on two figures.

The one who called, with slicked-back black hair reminiscent of a bygone-era film star, flashed a wide, mischievous grin.

"........," 

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