Elsewhere, Lucien sat alone, a glass constantly refilled, his gaze drifting lazily across the ballroom. To anyone watching, he looked lost in alcohol and pleasure. In truth, he was watching everything.
Two figures stopped before him.
"Master Debryl, Master Brigham," Lucien greeted, lifting his glass slightly. "I hope you are enjoying ball. Beautiful ladies everywhere."
"It truly is a fine gathering," Master Debryl said pleasantly, clinking his glass against Lucien's.
Master Brigham smiled, his tone sharper. "It surprises me to see you here, Your Highness. I thought you preferred your time in those… rundown brothels of yours."
Lucien took a slow sip of wine, unfazed. "A surprise indeed. I was under the impression this ball would carry a notice, no dogs allowed. Yet it seems some creatures could not remain obedient in their cages."
The air grew tense.
Lucien continued calmly, his voice smooth. "If I had a choice, I would rather enjoy the company of fine ladies than listen to barking dogs."
Master Debryll's smile faltered. Master Brigham's expression darkened. He shifted his foot against the floor, irritated.
"You waste your days on women," Master Brigham said coldly. "We do not need another Ashford."
Lucien's eyes flicked toward him. "And yet," he replied lightly, "you still interfere in Anthony's affairs."
Anthony suffered an unfortunate accident," Master Brigham said flatly. "But the gods were merciful. They granted us Alaric, a man with clearer vision for the kingdom."
He stepped closer. "Instead of sulking in brothels and drowning yourself in wine, Lucien, you should learn from your brother and put your life in order."
Lucien smiled.
"I shall do as you command," he said mockingly. He raised his glass in a lazy salute and turned away, disappearing into the crowd.
Master Brigham watched him leave. His lips curled as he lowered his head and muttered under his breath,
"Very soon, Lucien. Very soon."Just as the ball regained its rhythm, laughter and music weaving through the hall once more, a crisp, confident voice cut through the noise.
"Family… I'm back."
The ballroom stirred.
Helena stepped inside, her smile sharp and deliberate, eyes glittering with amusement. She moved straight toward the royal dais, ignoring the whispers that followed her. Without hesitation, she kissed Ashford and Daphne on their cheeks.
"Father," she said sweetly. "I missed you both. And you too, Mother."
Daphne let out a quiet scoff, rolling her eyes, while Ashford's face softened instantly.
"When did you return?" he asked warmly, patting Helena's head. "You could have written. We would have sent for you."
Helena laughed lightly. "I wanted to surprise Mother on her birthday."
She turned to Daphne and presented a small ornate box. "I brought you the finest tea from China. It calms the nerves and keeps the mind sharp."
Daphne raised a brow. "Are you implying I'm old?"
"On the contrary," Helena said smoothly, sitting beside her. "You've only gained another year, yet you're still as captivating as the first time I saw you."
Across the hall, Eveline watched quietly. Helena was undeniably beautiful, peach-blossom eyes, graceful movements, the kind of presence that effortlessly drew attention.
Alaric appeared beside Eveline, his voice low. "Do you know the princess?"
Eveline stiffened. "M-my prince… not personally."
Alaric smiled faintly. "No need to be tense. I was just curious. You don't look at her like a stranger."
Before Eveline could answer, Helena had already approached them.
"Brother," Helena said brightly. "It's been far too long."
She wrapped her arms around Alaric. He did not return the gesture, his expression unreadable. Helena didn't seem offended, she was used to his indifference.
"I couldn't find Anthony or Lucien," she added. "I brought gifts from France."
Alaric's gaze shifted to Eveline. "Are we acquainted, Princess?" he asked Helena coolly. "I don't recall exchanging gifts… or pleasantries."
Helena was dumbfounded, she wasn't expecting Alaric not to give her any face. Her eyes moved to Eveline instead. "And you are?"
"Eveline," she answered, bowing slightly.
Helena studied her openly. "Which house do you belong to? You're quite beautiful."
"I don't hail from any house."
Helena's brows lifted. "A commoner?"
Before Eveline could reply, Daphne's voice rang out sharply.
"Helena. That's enough."
Helena turned, startled. "Mother… are you speaking for her?"
"I am correcting you," Daphne said calmly. "You're tired. Go and rest."
Ashford cleared his throat. "Listen to your mother this time."
Helena cast Eveline one last glance before turning away, her steps sharp as she exited the ballroom.
Eveline watched her leave, her fingers curling into a fist. She reached for a servant's tray, lifted a glass of wine, and drained it in one go.
From the shadows, unseen eyes followed the movement. A smile slowly curved across unseen lips as Eveline set the empty glass down.