The Five Kingdoms*

chapter 4

Chapter 4: A Night of Deception

The night of the ball arrived, and the Human Kingdom's nobles and diplomats gathered in the grand hall. I stood at the entrance, scanning the crowd for potential threats.

Then, I saw her.

Princess Lizbeth of the Beastkin Kingdom descended the staircase, her beauty captivating the room. Her gown shimmered in the candlelight, a delicate silk concoction that hugged her curves. The neckline plunged, revealing the gentle slope of her shoulders.

My heart skipped a beat.

For a moment, I forgot about the danger lurking in the shadows. Forgot about my duty as her protector.

All I saw was Lizbeth.

Her laughter echoed through the hall as she greeted guests, her smile radiant. I couldn't help but stare, my chest tightening.

Captain Adam approached, his voice low. "Knight Rin, we've increased security. But stay vigilant."

I nodded, still entranced by Lizbeth's elegance.

As the evening wore on, I watched her dance with dignitaries, her poise and charm winning over even the most skeptical.

But beneath the surface, tension simmered.

Sir Theodore's absence raised suspicions. I knew he was involved in the plot, but where was he?

Lizbeth's hand touched my arm, her voice barely above a whisper. "Rin, I'm worried. Sir Theodore hasn't arrived."

My instincts flared. "Stay close to me, Your Majesty."

The music paused, and King Hibiki's voice boomed through the hall. "Ladies and gentlemen, a special announcement."

The room fell silent.

King Hibiki smiled, his eyes locking onto Lizbeth. "Tonight, we celebrate the strengthening bond between our kingdoms, and I thank Princess Lizbeth for her tireless efforts in forging this alliance."

Lizbeth's cheeks flushed as the crowd applauded.

As the music resumed, I took Lizbeth's hand, leading her onto the dance floor.

Our bodies swayed in perfect harmony, the world around us fading.

For one magical night, I forgot about duty and danger.

All I knew was the gentle pressure of Lizbeth's hand in mine.

And the unmistakable realization:

I was falling deeply in love with the princess I swore to protect.

As we danced, Lizbeth's eyes sparkled like diamonds in the candlelight. Her smile mesmerized me, and I couldn't help but return it.

Our bodies swayed closer, the distance between us shrinking. The music faded into the background, leaving only the sound of our gentle laughter.

Lizbeth's hand rested on my shoulder, her touch sending shivers down my spine. My arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer.

Our faces inches apart, I gazed into her eyes. The world around us melted away, leaving only the two of us.

My heart pounded in my chest, anticipation building. Lizbeth's lips parted slightly, an invitation.

I leaned in, my lips brushing against hers. The touch sent electricity through my veins.

Just as our lips were about to meet, a faint murmur echoed through the hall. "Your Majesties, please."