"Transcending Fate: A Shou's Journey in Medieval Love"
In a twist of fate, a beautiful boy is transmigrated into a BL otome game set in medieval Europe. He finds himself in the role of the Marquise's son, a minor villain destined to die at the hands...
Having successfully given his gift to Cedric, Alaric decided to enjoy the rest of the party. He headed to the refreshment table, savoring the variety of cakes and pastries available. After indulging his sweet tooth, he returned to the main hall, only to see Julian, the shou protagonist, conversing with Duke Cedric.
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Julian handed Cedric a gift, which Cedric accepted with a polite thank you, placing it with the other presents. Alaric wondered why Cedric wasn't opening it immediately but assumed he preferred to do so in private. Julian's angelic face seemed to radiate even more in his elegant suit, drawing the attention of many guests.
Alaric recalled the game events where his jealousy led him to push Julian, resulting in a sprained leg. That incident had earned him the scorn of the Duke, Prince Lucian, and Gabriel. Determined to avoid such a fate, Alaric resolved to stay far away from them. He wasn't the real villain, and he wouldn't play that role.
With this decision in mind, Alaric focused on enjoying the party. He helped himself to another piece of cake, savoring the sweetness that had been a rare treat in his past life. Glancing one more time at the trio of gongs and Julian, he noted that they seemed to be following the game's storyline without his interference.
Satisfied, he took his cake and a glass of wine to the balcony, seeking some solitude. The cool night air and the view of the moonlit garden provided a peaceful respite. He drank his wine, feeling a bit tipsy as a rosy hue colored his cheeks. Unknowingly, he finished the entire glass.
As he stood there, lost in thought, Elias, the mysterious man, appeared beside him. They exchanged pleasantries, and Elias's presence brought a sense of ambiguous tension.
"You seem to be enjoying yourself," Elias remarked, his eyes flickering with an unreadable emotion.
Alaric nodded, feeling the warmth of the wine spread through him. "Yes, the party is lovely."
Before they could converse further, the balcony door opened, and Prince Lucian stepped out. A fleeting expression crossed his face upon seeing Elias with Alaric, but it was quickly replaced by a playful smile.
"Elias," Lucian greeted, his tone light. "Enjoying the party?"
"Of course, Your Highness," Elias replied, bowing slightly before excusing himself and returning to Julian's side.
Lucian turned his attention to Alaric, noting his flushed face. "Alaric, you seem a bit tipsy," he said, stepping closer. "How have you been?"
"I'm fine, Your Highness," Alaric replied, trying to steady himself. Lucian's presence was intoxicating, making his heart race.
"You look stunning tonight," Lucian complimented, his voice softening. The closeness of the prince and the intensity of his gaze made Alaric's pulse quicken.
Trying to maintain his composure, Alaric attempted to back away politely. However, his unsteady feet betrayed him, and he stumbled directly into Lucian's arms.
"Careful," Lucian murmured, his hands firmly on Alaric's waist. Their eyes locked, and for a moment, the world seemed to fade away. Lucian leaned in slightly, his breath warm against Alaric's ear. "Don't drink too much," he whispered.
Just then, the balcony door opened again, and Lucian released Alaric as Cedric stepped out. Lucian turned to the Duke, giving him a final birthday wish and a glance at Alaric before heading back inside.
Alaric's heart was pounding, his mind reeling from the close encounter. Cedric approached, his expression unreadable as he looked at the slightly drunk Alaric.
"Are you alright?" Cedric asked, his tone gentle.
"I'm fine," Alaric mumbled, trying to regain his composure. The proximity of both the prince and the duke in such a short span had left him dizzy and confused.
Cedric nodded, his eyes lingering on Alaric and something passed by in those eyes which Alaric couldn't see . "Let's get you some water," he suggested, leading him back inside.
As they re-entered the party, Alaric couldn't help but feel that the dynamics between him and the gongs were shifting in ways he hadn't anticipated. The night had taken an unexpected turn, and the lingering thoughts of the ambiguous moments with Lucian and the mysterious aura of Elias stayed with him long after the celebration had ended.
