"Duke of Oltaf, what are your actions supposed to mean?" the Crown Prince asked, his voice dropping to a dangerous, icy chill.
The anger on the Duke's face vanished, replaced by an apologetic smile. He bowed and said, "Seeing her drop unconscious has clouded my usually sound judgment. I beg your forgiveness for my unseemly display, Your Highness."
"See to it that it does not happen again."
"Yes."
The Duke straightened his body and glanced at Erika's direction, a look of confusion on his face.
"It seems she was tired, Your Highness. Can I conclude that I have won the dance competition?" RainGum asked, taking a step forward with a faint smile.
The Crown Prince took a good long look at him, silent and judging.
"Very well. RainGum has won the favor of the foreign princess. As promised, the faction behind him will lead a delegation to Jeova Kingdom to mediate their current state of affairs." He paused and looked around. "Is there anyone that objects?"
Silence filled the ballroom.
