Everything for the throne

The dance floor

As the engaged couple took the center of the hall, their graceful dancing made the crowdbuzz with compliments. Prince Christian spoke as they moved in sync to the music's beat.

Christian: I'm glad that my partner is flawless in every way

Alice: And the same goes for me

Alice replied casually, though her nonchalance made Christian chuckle. He knew capturing her attention wouldn't be easy.

Chrsitian: Is the Princess worried that I might take some action?

Christian teased, earning a sharp glare from Alice that sent chills down his spine, yet he found it enticing.

Alice: What is Prince Christian trying to imply?

Chrsitian: I can hear the sound of knives clanging as you take your steps

Alice smiled before responding

Alice: Is Prince Christian concerned that I might hurt him with the knives concealed in my gown?

Leaning in, Prince Christian whispered in Alice's ear with a raspy voice

Christian: I wouldn't object if the harm is from you, my princess.

As the music ended, they bowed to each other, and Alice walked departed. Prince Christian attempted to follow her but was intercepted by Princess Catherina, causing him to lose sight of Alice.

Prince Christian, who smiled at Princess Catherina's greeting, inwardly cursed her for stopping him.

Princess Catherina: I'm very honored to meet His Highness... I've admired the brave Prince Christian since I was a child.

Christian: I am flattered.

Christian replied, though he was forced to smile.

Princess Catherina: I've heard that His Highness is talented at painting... I've been curious about what kind of paintings his Grace enjoys.

Catherina added, trying to spend more time with the prince. However, Christian, seeing through her intentions, leaned in and whispered in her ear.

Christian: I am a loyal prince who has pledged to devote his life to his love, and it's Princess Alice

He said, stepping back smiling, causing Catherina to flinch at his abrupt change in behavior.

Christian: Please excuse me, Princess... I am looking for my fiancée,

He walked away, leaving Catherina standing alone in the corner.

Meanwhile, Catherina's brother Carlos came up to her with two glasses of wine. Without glancing at his face, Catherina accepted one glass from his hand. Standing next to her, Carlos asked her a question

Prince Carlos: Mother's order?

Princess Catherina: Do you truly believe I have any interest in Prince Christian?

The siblings sighed. They had obeyed their mother's commands since childhood without ever challenging her. They endured harsh punishments, including beatings, starvation, and being locked in dark closets for days, just because they weren't as capable as Queen Sabina's children.

The twins were manipulated by Lady Zora, who pursued power and status. Her children were raised to be as arrogant and wicked as her, compelled into such behavior. They were labeled as the haughty troublemakers of the Imperial family. Yet, they also longed for love and simply desired to earn their mother's pride out of affection and concern.