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Smiling, Jubelian agreed enthusiastically. “You’re right! You are a very handsome man!” Max smiled contentedly. That was when she added, “So, don’t be so disappointed about losing the duel against Dad. Okay?” Reminded of the terrible truth he had forgotten about, Max was rendered speechless.

* * *

Donned in the black armor, Victor practiced numerous dances in the crown prince’s absence.

‘Dancing is the most important skill for a gentleman.’ No banquets would be held in the royal palace for a while, but there were quite a few noble families who would be holding parties since many noblewomen would come of age soon. Several faces came to Victor’s mind at once. He then grinned when he thought of a specific lady. ‘She’s been quiet lately… but she was still gorgeous. As the rumors say, she is truly the most beautiful woman in the empire.’

The sight of the infamous lady dancing with the crown prince had ignited a fire in Victor’s heart. ‘She only danced once with His Highness. Surely, she’s not interested in him… Perhaps she might be interested in me!’ Victor was tall and slender, yet thanks to his slightly muscular build, he did not seem lanky. He also had a fair appearance—he had been told a few times that he looked like the crown prince—although it was only when he was passing by in a carriage. Full of self-love, Victor pledged silently, ‘Lady Floyen, I will win your heart!’

As the man was immersed in dangerous ambitions, a low voice called, “Victor.”

Terrified by the sudden call, Victor hastily turned to realize that the crown prince was staring at him with a stern expression. ‘Why does he look so upset? Oh no, it must be because he saw me dancing while wearing the armor!’ Victor swallowed dryly.

Another voice called, “Your Highness, this is Dennis.”

Relieved at his comrade’s unexpected appearance, Victor answered before Max could. “Come in.”

Once Dennis entered the room, he realized the situation and frowned. “Victor, was it you who answered?”

Although Dennis was his superior, Victor remained nonchalant. “I mean… you told me to act like His Highness whenever I was wearing the armor, Captain!”

“You…!”

“Shut up, both of you,” a cold voice put an end to the brewing quarrel. The two knights zipped their mouths shut at the prince’s order. They then exchanged glances and whispered to each other.

“What makes His Highness so upset?”

“I don’t know, Captain! I’ve been relieved as it seemed he had grown softer these days.”

Unaware of their chatter, Max began, “There’s something I am curious about.”

Dennis and Victor kneeled on one knee in unison. “We will do our best to answer, Your Highness.”

“There is someone I am very fond of,” the crown prince began after much thought.

The two knights looked at each other in response and nodded. Remembering how Max had kept a pink handkerchief attached to the hilt of his sword while fighting the Lagon, they had been expecting this news for a while. It would be more strange to not notice that there was someone he adored. Moreover, Victor had already counseled the crown prince on dating advice. In any case, both men pretended to be surprised.

“Does that mean… you’ve found true happiness? What great news!” Victor exclaimed.

Dennis glared at his subordinate with a frown and quickly asked, “May I ask who she is, Your Highness?”

The crown prince’s face brightened up like a blooming flower. Giggling, Victor quipped,

“I don’t know who she is, but seeing Your Highness’ face, she must be as beautiful as Lady Floyen.”

Scowling, Max threatened in a wintry tone. “Don’t even think about approaching her.”

At the threat, Victor’s face crumpled. ‘It was just a compliment! What’s gotten into him?!’