[Scene – Palace Grand Hall – Dance]

Raashen approaches Ivar without a word. His tall figure and dark cloak give him a majestic, shadow-like presence. He raises his gloved hand—thin, black silk—and extends it toward Ivar.

Sin (whispering near Ivar’s ear):

“Just act normal… breathe.”

Ivar’s heart is pounding. His fingers tremble slightly, but he finally takes Raashen’s hand. The touch is cold… yet gentle. Like calm ice.

Without speaking, Raashen leads him to the center of the ballroom. The crowd parts for them, making space, as musicians begin to play a soft, classical melody.

The first steps are difficult for Ivar, but Raashen moves flawlessly—one hand holding Ivar’s, the other lightly at his back. Not too firm, not too loose.

Ivar (inner thoughts):

“He’s guiding me… It’s easier than I thought…”

Their steps synchronize. For a moment, Ivar loses himself in the rhythm and the silent connection. They twirl together in smooth motion. Raashen’s cloak ripples with his turns, and the ballroom lights gleam off Ivar’s polished attire.

For that brief moment, it feels like the whole world is just the two of them.

[End of Dance – In front of the Queen and Emperor]

As the dance ends, Raashen still holds Ivar’s hand and leads him toward the royal dais. The crowd respectfully steps aside, murmuring as they pass.

Queen Lorista watches them with a formal smile. Emperor Ratan stands beside her. The Queen’s voice rises above the crowd:

Queen Lorista:

“It is with great pride that we announce the engagement of Prince Raashen, Crown Prince of the Royal House, and Ivar of House Raven.

This union has long been arranged…

And within three months, their wedding shall take place.”

The hall bursts into murmurs—some astonished, others curious. All eyes are on the couple.

[Scene – Sudden Attack]

Suddenly, a sharp sound tears through the air.

Guard (shouting):

“Get down!”

Three metallic arrows shoot down from above at lightning speed. The entire hall freezes in a heartbeat.

The first arrow heads straight for Raashen. Ivar reacts instinctively—he kicks the arrow hard, diverting its path midair. It clatters loudly across the marble floor.

The second arrow targets Ivar. But Raashen is quicker—he pulls Ivar close and catches the arrow with his gloved left hand. The impact rings out with a sharp metallic thud.

The third arrow is aimed at the Emperor. But before it can reach him, Sarit bursts from the crowd, sword in hand, and deflects it midair. Sparks fly from the clash between blade and arrow.

Sarit (firmly):

“I’ll go after them!”

Without hesitation, she leaps out the same window the arrows came through.

[Scene – The Silence After]

Ivar is still close to Raashen, panting, heart racing. As he looks up, his gaze meets Raashen’s face for the first time.

The cloak has slightly shifted back, revealing his eyes.

Red. Piercing. Strangely calm… A striking contrast to the chaos around them.

A pause—brief but heavy. No words. No movement. Just two locked gazes.