Post

December 31
08:30
Enigmastadt Palace - Victorian Ballroom Hall

This portion takes place in the perspective of Alyssa.

It’s the long-awaited day that everyone has been hyped for– the culmination of the Year-End celebrations, the Year-End Ball, held on every 31st of December. This tradition had a long hiatus, with the last celebrations being held way, way back in the twilight years of the Franziskanic era. Of course, I had it resumed when I rose to power, hehe… but the massive con about this occasion is the massive process of preparing everything. Granted, Mother had everything done days prior, but every morning, we have to prepare the palace’s grandiose ballroom. Talk about a slight damp in excitement…

“How many guests are we expecting today?” I asked one of the staff who were in charge of auditing the number of guests, and the one responsible for distribution of the invitations.

“This year seems to be a record, Lady Alyssa. About 1450 guests, out of our yearly 1500 estimate and sent invitations, agreed to join. Compared to last year’s record of just 1215, which wasn’t really astounding,” he said.

“I see,” I nodded. “I think it’s honestly going to be a blast this year. We’ve been enjoying many benefits recently, and the nobles are thinking highly of joining the ball. Unfortunately, we can’t accommodate them all, though. The palace’s ballroom isn’t that big.”

“Indeed. But would you ever try, starting next year, Lady Alyssa? To expand the number of guests?” he then asked again.

“I might,” I replied. “Reception of the celebrations are otherwise positive, so for a change, maybe we could increase the number of guests. However, we also have to determine if the Palace’s infrastructure can handle the number of automobiles, guests, noise, and rubbish. Remember, this is still the country’s government seat of power, apart from being the residence of the royal family. We have a reputation to keep it clean, make it look sparkly, and grandiose – as a fine example of being prim and proper.”

“Understandable. We will conduct talks with the Master Architect upon your orders starting next year, Lady Alyssa.”

“Not just with the Master Architect, of course,” I chuckled. “Nonetheless, thank you for clarifying data to me.” I dismissed him and then paid my attention back to the maids and butlers working at full force arranging the necessary things to accommodate 1450 guests within the otherwise large ballroom, and its surrounding halls. Not wanting to be idle, I approached a certain row of maids who were arranging chairs.

“Lady Alyssa? Is there something wrong?” one asked.

“Oh, no, nothing. I want to help out to hasten the process. Would that be fine for all of you?” I asked.

“Er, but you’re the…”

“I don’t mind,” I said.

“Um, very well then…” The maid then reluctantly told me what to do, and I spared no time to help them out. Talk about a tedious process, though: as I moved some chairs here and there, I realised the full magnitude of how demanding it is to prepare this ball. Everything had to be properly in order. Sighing a bit, I continued helping out on arranging the chairs required. After a while, we had completed the row.

“All done,” I said.

“Thank you, Lady Alyssa! We appreciate the help,” they replied, bowing and smiling after.

“It’s nothing, don’t mention it.” I smiled and then went to Mother, who was placing down some guides on each table. Each of them had a sign that often said ‘reserved for family name’. While the maids and butlers continuously worked on arranging the other rows carefully, she was waiting patiently, and if it was done she would quickly put the guides. Tapping her, I said: “Mum, do you mind?”

“Huh? Mind what, dear?”

“I’d, um… like to help. I’m sorry, I can’t be bothered to be idle and do nothing. I feel bad if I don’t move around,” I said.

“Are you sure about that? You might get tired–”

“I insist,” I said. She shrugged and handed me over some of the signs, and pointed at some other tables. I nodded and went there, placing all the appropriate signs on the proper tables. While doing so, one of the event staff came up to me.

“Lady Alyssa, the catering staff has advised us that they might arrive a bit later than usual… they estimate around five or six o’clock,” she said, fixing her glasses afterwards.

“Is that so?” I nodded. “That’s perfectly fine. The proceedings begin at nineteen o’clock in the evening anyway; guests are permitted to enter starting 18:00 anyway, so it’s not necessarily a big problem. If it was, say, inability to provide their services posthaste then that is a serious issue. Nonetheless, speaking of the food, were you all able to make it clear to them that some guests may have allergies? Common procedure that we all have done since 2047.”

“The Food Safety team has indeed made it clear, Lady Alyssa,” she said. “They have asked the guests, and some have mild allergies according to their questioning with them. As much as possible, the catering team will have to put warnings on foods that may trigger allergic reactions for those people.”

“Asked and answered. Thank you for clarifying,” I said. “Is there anything else you wish to report to me about?”

“Nothing else for now, Lady Alyssa.”

“Very well. Do not hesitate to call my attention if there’s a new development, alright? Thank you,” I said, smiling, then went back to my duties. Thankfully, much of the tables had been set by now, so it was pretty much smooth sailing from there. The maids and butlers assembled, all giving a “heave-ho” type of chant, after finishing arranging and sorting everything out, and then facing me, bowing, then left in an orderly fashion.

“Such a charming bunch,” I said to myself, as Mother and I took turns in putting up the required signs. I could smell the fresh scent of the flowers placed neatly on the tables, and I was so tempted to pluck one in secrecy. I was only stopped when I tried and Mother gave me a subtle glare… so I didn’t continue any further, laughing it off. After we finished that task, I decided to take out my phone. First, I checked the time:

10:02
Friday, 31 December
Feels like 0°C

Time sure flew fast, and I wasn’t even aware. I mean, to be frank, it’s a good thing. The excitement that I have for this day is… irregularly larger than the previous Year-End parties. Could it be because it’ll be the first time that I will enjoy it with a bachelor…? I’ve always sat by the sides and watched people enjoy themselves, then retreat to bed once it’s all over… Hngh! I couldn’t control my excitement… dancing with him… that’d be so grand, even if it’s my first time and I BARELY know anything! Oh, what a splendid sight would that be–

“My dear, are you alright?” Mother then waved at me, throttling me quickly back to reality.

“Oh, um… yes, Mum, I’m fine!” I smiled, a bit embarrassed. Good grief, Alyssa. Why can’t you get a hold of your own horses for once? I’m going to see him anyway tonight. Why the intense daydreaming? We need to get stuff done before everything else, unless we want this entire party to be one heck of a flop.

Daydream later, work now… Daydream later, work now…

“Are you sure you’re legitimately fine?” Mother then asked, crossing her arms. “You’ve been squealing crazy right over there,” she then pointed at the table. She seems to be scolding me, but I don’t see a serious expression on her face… she seems to be chuckling, as if it was meant to mock me.

“...Alright, I was daydreaming.” I said, then blushed and looked away. “I couldn’t hold my excitement anymore, Mum. But I also feel nervous… he wants to have a dance with me later, but you know that I have never, ever tried taking the hands of a man to dance in the ball. In fact, nobles have said that it is impossible to ever invite me; I’ve received such, yet I swiftly rejected it. But Fritz is such a special case… I don’t want to disappoint him by being crude and horrible.”

“You’ll do fine, dear.” Mother then caressed my hair, then gave me some pats. “He obeyed your ultimatum, he made you happy yesterday; I’m sure he’ll guide you later in case you’re nervous. He won’t be easily disappointed!”

“You think?” I looked at her for a bit.

“Think? No, I’m not thinking. It’s true,” she replied. “Now, let’s get back to business, shall we? We’ll be having lunch soon, so hurry up.”

“Yes, Mother… Understood. Are there any other tasks for me to complete today? I don’t know what to do in the afternoon,” I asked, as I continued doing my task. “If there are none, I’ll just take a nap, or practise my feet for some little dancing later. I’m so restless, I just want it to be nighttime already.”

“You wouldn’t dare sleep on lunchtime now, would you?” Mother said. “Kidding. Just have some lunch and then you can do whatever you want, just as long as you don’t get even more tired in the process. Remember, we will have to prepare you already by six o’clock. I suggest you try practising some dances, then go take a nap. How about that?”

“That sounds fairly okay to me, Mum. I’ll do that after we have lunch,” I said. “Although… just a question, how did Illuverendia celebrate it during the Stratocracy? It must have been boring if that was the case, since… you know, peerages gone? Enigmastadt Palace closed?”

“I reckon people had individual celebrations,” Mother said. “I’m not sure, though. I never celebrated the Year-End extravagantly that much, until lately. It wasn’t that bleak, I guess? But it was never too posh, either. They just appropriated it to be a simple holiday.”

“Oh. I see,” I said, then nodded.

I quickly finished the required work, and eventually the ballroom was all but ready to accommodate guests and the catering. I sighed in relief, and bade Mother farewell, who stayed to double-check everything. By that time I checked on my phone, it was half an hour before noon, so I decided to have some lunch, and hopefully, later, I can pass the time practising…

---

December 31
10:00
Chateau d’ Lusamine-Brandt, Enigmastadt

This portion takes place in the perspective of Friedrich.
This portion also runs alongside the same timeframe as the previous portion.

The day for the Year-End Ball has arrived. I woke up earlier than expected, in fact I’ve been awake for two hours now. My excitement is spouting out of my veins, but I must keep control of myself. I do not want a repeat of two days ago which was absolutely disastrous.

Remembering that incident, I looked at my fists, which were still recovering and were scarred from the self-harm that I did. Treating said wounds was Tabitha, who had helped me during that time.

“Big brother, do you plan to use gloves?” she asked.

“Hm? Well, by all means,” I said. “It is embarrassing for Alyssa to have a dance with me and my fists look like they are heavily scarred, like a pan… or pot… that has not been completely cleaned up. Eurgh…”

“Do you not want to be a bit more ‘true’ with her? It would be quite symbolic if you really like her,” she said. “Covering your hands because you want to hide your guilt feels like you’re creating a wall.”

“You think?”

“Yeah,” she replied. “Lady Alyssa shattered her own walls because she wanted you to be close with her. You said that ‘you give her butterflies in her stomach’, right? That's an admission that she likes you. Right from her very heart and soul, with no protective hindrance. If you were to dance with her without gloves, it would be symbolic because, well, you asked her to be your partner when she bared your wounds. She wanted you to be true to yourself.”

“That’s… quite the explanation,” I said, feeling giddy about my own sister’s quotations. “But, pray tell, how will you cover this up, hygiene-wise?”

Tabitha then pouted, and ‘bonked’ me on the head. “Silly!” she exclaimed. “Of course you’re going to wear gloves first, but make sure to take them off before dancing with her at the Ball! You’ve gotta tone down that excitement, Big Brother. You’re becoming dumb!”

“Silence!” I chuckled and laughed. “Honestly, I really have to contain it. We can’t have a repeat of two days ago. But I digress. Do you think she’ll look absolutely glorious later? We’re forbidden to see the dresses of our partners, after all… which is like the basic tradition of the Year-End Ball.”

“Does she not look glorious already to you?”

“Well, she does…” I chuckled.

“You sound so unsure, Big Brother,” Tabitha nodded sideward and finished treating my wounds. “I’m gonna tell Lady Alyssa about that.”

“No! Don’t you dare– I only said that because she looks beautiful. Glorious, on the other hand, is a different context,” I said. “I bet she’ll be one, though. What do you think?”

“She will be,” she said. “Especially with the fact that she likes you, I’m sure she’ll do everything she can to look absolutely stunning tonight. Heck, she might even be the talk of the town tomorrow– and you, too. Many bachelors will be jealous of you as well, being the very first to ever penetrate the Queen’s formidable defences.”

“...riiight…” I nodded sideward. “How many people are super-interested with her?”

“Too many, big brother. Too many,” she replied. “Her reclusivity was one of their major obstacles. But it seems you got through. Congratulations!”

“You’re making it sound like I’m proposing to her, or worse, you’re making it sound like some random-number generator type of feel,” I chuckled. “We’ve only liked each other and you already forced us to tie the knot… slow down, mate.” Well, I definitely will ask for her hand for marriage– not for a dance– but that’s in the near future. “Anyway, are you done treating my wounds?”

“Yup. Nice and clean. Hurry down, though… Dad’s waiting. We have to see the Rossweisse tailors,” she said, stood up, and left.

“I will follow suit. Thanks a lot, Tabitha.” I smiled and waved. As she left, I stared once again at my palms, now completely cleaned from all the extra gunk that was there prior. For a bit, my mind had an impulse – I felt warmth, as if Alyssa held my hand. I quickly snapped out of it and wore my gloves, then made my way downstairs. Everyone was waiting, and my father looked jokingly cross as I made my way down.

“You are late,” he said. “My eye was blinking faster than your speed going downstairs.”

“Goodness, Father, don’t be such a stick in the mud,” I chuckled. “What’s important is that we’re all present.”

“Indeed. Our Rossweisse relatives should be here shortly. Postures, everyone. Do not forget our family etiquette,” he said. We then stood waiting.

The mahogany doors of our manor then opened, with our retainers welcoming a bunch of nobles that wore the same dress code as us: red. These must be our Rossweisse counterparts. The Brandt family is large, after all. Leading the way was their matriarch, Rosalina von Brandt-Rossweisse, flanked by her spouse, Theodore Rutherford von Brandt-Rossweisse, and her firstborn, Selena von Brandt-Rossweisse. Behind them were their personal tailors. A powerful aura emanated across the foyer, as the two noble families both took their postures.

After a brief moment of stares and serious looks, Lady Rosalina– or Aunt Rosie as I call her– broke the cold stares by suddenly laughing and giggling. Mother did so too, and soon, Aunt Rosie spoke:

“Maintaining such a posture is hard! How are you all?”

“Peachy, Rosie.” Father chuckled, and shook hands with his counterpart. “Theodore, lad. Wie geht’s?”

“Schon gut, Heinrich,” Theodore - or Uncle Theo as I call him, said. Both the matriarchs and patriarchs exchanged greetings, and me and Tabitha then exchanged our greetings with Selena.

“Hi, Selene.” I smiled. “I hope you are well?”

Selena bowed. “As always, Fritz. How are you?”

“Well, heh… in love?” I chuckled and scratched my head. “I’ve been, err… in the clouds lately. Hey, wait. You monitor my social media account. Why the heck are you asking me this? You should know that by now!”

“Ha!” Selena laughed. “I have better hobbies to do than to check my social media. So, who’s the lucky lady?”

“It’s–”

“Her Royal Highness. Lady Alyssa Midford,” Tabitha answered suddenly…

“Tabitha!”

“OH!” Selena exclaimed. “The Queen, huh!? Wow, ain’t you some big hotshot!” she said. “No one, I say– NO ONE– has ever managed to confess to the Queen herself. Did you get rejected?”

“...She listened to my confession,” I said.

“Mein Valkyrija! How!?” she chuckled. “Did you… did you perhaps hypnotise her!? She doesn’t entertain confessions!”

As it was a long story, I explained it in short words to her. Selena looked more shocked than before. “Oh. My,” she said. “What a love story. Here you are, writing fictional things and love stories, and now guess what, you’re in one. That’s absolutely lovely… and extremely rare. The irony, though – if you were single, heartbroken, and struggled to write a love story like that.”

“Huh… feels like I’ve been there before,” I said, and chuckled.

“Well, anyway,” Selena said. “Congratulations for being the first man to have the Queen’s full attention. She normally rejects suitors. Many have tried, and many tears have been shed. Many of your brethren have generally accepted she is not looking any longer… but you’re the first contrarian.”

“You’re all making it sound like Alyssa’s satisfied being single,” I said, a bit disgusted because it sounded so disparaging… and the fact it’s sort of smothering my hopes.

“We’re not. She’s just that type that doesn’t care about confessions,” she said. “But I’m happy for you, cousin.”

“Heh… thank you,” I chuckled. “Anyway, where’s Theresa?”

“Thea? She couldn’t join us today, but will be at the Ball,” Selena said.

“Oh. Why so?” I asked.

“Thea is preoccupied with instructing the staff at home,” she replied. “But she will be at the ball later.”

“Oh. Okay,” I said. “Anyway, you guys have our attires and dresses for us?” I asked, looking around.

“We do,” she smiled. “The Rossweisse family never disappoints, and never lacks to always flush out the best of clothing for such royal occasions. Mother?”

“Yes, dear?” Aunt Rosie looked in her direction.

“Can I prepare Tabby and Fritz already?” Selena asked, alongside us both.

“Oh, of course, dear. Be off now, let us make haste!” Aunt Rosie replied. “You there, join those three. Prepare their clothing, too. Now, you three, head for your powder room, you hear?”

“Yes, Aunt Rosie!” both me and Tabitha said.

“Good, good! Everything is running like clockwork…” she muttered. The three of us, alongside the tailor, went to one of the powder rooms nearby. For a bit, we lounged around as the dresses had to be brought in. Later, two mannequins - one of a man, and one of a woman – matching our stature, arrived. It was my attire, and Tabitha’s dress, as expected.

“Tailor, I want you to focus on Herr Fritz over here,” Selena said. “Tabby, I’ll take care of you. Follow me~!”

“Okay! See you around, big brother,” Tabitha said and waved. I waved back as both of them left, leaving me and the tailor alone. Before getting started, I inspected the attire first, from top to bottom. It was a really fancy white tuxedo, of all things, too. Having a fondness of the colour of purity, I gave the tailor a nod of inarguable agreement.

“As expected of our Rossweisse counterparts… absolutely magnifique,” I said to the tailor. “May I ask who did most of the designs? They are quite intricate, and well-done.”

“I did it, Sir,” the tailor replied.

“Oh, you did? Hm, my family is obviously not paying you enough. You’ve done a splendid job with this alone,” I said, showing him the amazing work that he did. I can’t debate anything on it – there’s nothing to be pedantic about. If perfection has a definition, this is it.

“Thank you, Sir,” he smiled and bowed. “But I believe I do not deserve such a rais–”

“Nonsense,” I dismissed. “No objections!” I chuckled, and so did he. Deciding that it was time to dress up, I wasted no more of my time and got on to it. Few minutes passed and I was finally wearing my attire. Grabbing my trusty white fedora on one of the racks, I wore it and looked at the mirror. Well, would you look at that, the noblest of noblemen. I haven’t even put the Brandt-Lusaminia brooches yet, but I’m confident it’s just going to exert more ‘I am a royalty’ energy later this evening.

“You look astounding, Sir,” the tailor smiled. “It is, as if, the Great Valkyrija Krietsche descended to our mortal realm, not to cause chaos, but to merely coexist alongside the subjects of his sister.”

“Is that so?” I looked over at his direction. “If that is the case… I aim to spook the nobility later!” I then laughed, and said abruptly: “I kid. Halloween is over.”

The tailor was still laughing but then calmed down afterward. Soon after, Selena and Tabitha came back. Tabitha was dressed in an alluring red dress that she requested for, which really befitted her. “We’re back!” she said.

“Woah, you look like a Great Valkyrija, Fritz,” Selena remarked. “I think you’re Krietsche himself, if you ask me.”

“That’s what the tailor said too,” I replied.

“Lady Alyssa will love this so much,” Tabitha said, chuckling. “It made me awestruck the first time I saw it.”

“You’re buttering me up,” I said and chuckled. “Now, Tabitha, you look very alluring, allow me to say that. You might attract some attention and steal mine!”

“Humph! As if I will challenge you, big brother! I know I already don’t stand a chance, since your partner is the monarch.”

“Yeah, yeah, sure…” I joked. We all had a good laugh after, and all of us continued to exchange compliments on our attires. After a while, we changed back to our attire prior, deciding that we should keep them neat for later.

I really wish it’s already nighttime, because I’m already itching to go there.

---

Time passes, with the nobility involved spending their time preparing for the ball. The rest of Illuverendia goes along with their day. By afternoon, however, nobles began departing their abodes, and made their way to the Enigmastadt Palace. Most of them left as early as 14:00.

At 18:00, the Brandt-Lusaminia family arrived within the palace, and Fritz would soon take a detour route… the same route Alyssa told him to take, a day prior.

---

December 31
18:00
Enigmastadt Palace - Living Quarters
Alyssa’s quarters

This portion takes place in the perspective of Alyssa.

“It’s time, Alyssa. Let’s do this. We will make it through tonight…”

…That is what I said to myself, as I looked at the mirror. I had just finished freshening myself up, and I was combing my hair. Throughout the entire afternoon, I spent my time practising some proper dance steps, let alone a good posture in the ballroom. It’s embarrassing, but it had to be done; the last thing I want is to make an embarrassment on the floor in front of a thousand nobles. Thankfully, I was able to master at least some of them… hopefully, it’s sufficient for later…

I took a glance at my table clock. It is 18:00; the guests should be entering the ballroom now. I heard a knock on my door, and someone then spoke:

“Your Royal Highness, if I may bother? This is your tailor. Lady Emilia instructed me to prepare you at once.”

“Ah, already?” I replied and stood up, opening the door. I welcomed my tailor and then sat back down, putting some blush-on as well as braiding and tying my hair. I glanced again over to the tailor and found my dress being pulled in, neatly, by a few Royal Maids. I stood up and prepared myself, after the Royal Maids left and shut the door. “Let’s make haste. We cannot be late,” I then said.

Both me and the tailor got to work real quick. I was then dressed up into the proper attire as quickly as possible, but also ensuring everything was properly set. We cannot have any malfunction or any of the sort later, after all. That would be extremely embarrassing for everyone else, and would kill me of frustration. Anxiety was running in my veins, because this ball is a giant first for me… for instance, the first ball that I will ever have with a partner… and the first one that I will not be sitting within the sides, watching people have fun.

As I was being changed, I stared at the calendar hanging by the wall. The year is finally drawing to a close… and the new year is just hours from now. This year has been something else, starting indifferently, but then becoming a whole new experience, just as it ends. I could feel my cheeks turn red, however, as the thought of love started to encompass my head. Not wrong, though… This year has made me experience what romance is, and what it feels to be courted by a man. For many years, I’ve disdained the thought of falling in love with someone, owing to my past troubles, but now…

I think… it’s time for me to give him an answer…

“You are all set, Your Royal Highness, and what a magnificent sight you are.”

I looked at the mirror as I wore my dancing shoes. There, reflected, was a noblewoman clad in the finest and most elegant of dresses. A sight to behold, indeed, as what my tailor had just said. Everything was satisfying– my makeup was not overdone this time, my hairdo being at its finest, and the dress and shoes completing the entire set. Though, I have to admit, the dancing shoes are making me feel questionably tipsy for some reason. Not that it’ll be a problem, though… as I popped a confident smile.

“Thank you,” I said. “Let us make haste.”

Both of us left my quarters, closing the door on our way out. From there, I could hear the rambling of many people by the foyer of the Living Quarters. There, I could hear Fritz, Wolfgang, and Mother having a chat.

“...She’ll be down soon,” Mother then said. “Alyssa! Are you ready yet, dear?”

“Yes, Mother! I’ll be right there, s-shortly!” I said.

Anxiety, excitement, and nervousness competed for control of my consciousness, as we made our way down. The tailor decided to let me go first, which I did. Before I stepped down the stairs, I closed my eyes, taking a deep breath and finally sighing in relief. With my confidence restored, I slowly made my way down. It didn’t help that my dancing shoes were really impeding my mobility, but it will take some time getting used to, and I shouldn’t falter to practise it now.

As I went down, I saw them all gazing in awe as my sight appeared in their very eyes. I saw Fritz’s attire as well, which was… absolutely… astounding, and made me blush hard enough as I continued going down. He shared the same reaction as I have– yet trying to remain confident as he smiles while continuously staring at my dress. Not a problem… I had planned it all along that his sights were fixated on me alone.

“Oh, my, what a beautiful, gorgeous lady you are, my dear,” Mother said. “No further words can describe how much of a magnificent sight you are.”

“I second what Mother said, big sister… I’m in awe,” Wolfgang said.

I smiled at their remarks, then approached Fritz. As our eyes met… there was a sizable atmosphere of awkwardness that set in. Despite the fact we have been extremely casual, and at times, quite intimate, the sight of us in our best-of-best attires was something we were both not prepared for. In my case… I was only anticipating his reaction. In the midst of it, though, we were both staring at each other's eyes, and smiling a bit awkwardly. Breaking the frost, he then spoke.

“You… you’re absolutely… beautiful. By Bianca, I’m…”

“...There’s no need to flatter me…” I said, chuckling, and blushing hard. “You are the handsomest man that I have seen… tonight. And… we haven’t even been in the ballroom yet. That enough says much about how great you look tonight, Friedrich.”

“Ehe… only the best for such an elegant maiden like you, Your Royal Highness,” he then replied, much to my chagrin. I blushed even further– but I couldn’t help but to smile brightly at that remark. I usually don’t like being called by my royal title in casual situations… but this time, it feels so special that it’s making my heart beat faster. Trying not to lose my composure, I held out my right hand, in a gesture that is asking for him to hold it, which is the proper way for a lady to ask for a man’s hand to dance.

“Would you… be so kind as to be my partner tonight, Sir Friedrich?” I asked, following the tradition. Of course, we had agreed to this a day prior.

He then held my hand, gently. Although as I said, we agreed to this yesterday… it feels so romantically symbolic. I gasped for a short moment as he held my hand, and looked at him. “With most pleasure, Your Royal Highness,” he said. “How could I ever tone down such an offer? I must express my gratitude for having such an honour to have the Queen’s hand tonight, however.” As expected, he bowed his head a bit, and took off his fedora. I couldn’t feel embarrassed anymore… but I feel tears starting to accumulate, from his actions alone. Yet I was also smiling too bright that it’s making the lights of the Living Quarters darker in comparison.

“My, well now I know who will steal the spotlight later.” Mother then said, chuckling. “Be off now, you two. We shall follow suit, Lady Valhallerens-Wassenschale is still taking her dear time.”

“Indeed…” I said. “Shall we?” I looked over to Fritz.

“Gladly. Let’s not waste anymore time.”

I waved goodbye to the crowd in the foyer as we left, making our way to the ballroom, still holding each other’s hands. As expected, my inexperience with my dancing shoes would continue to manifest. He then noticed this and looked at me, with both of us stopping briefly as I was losing my balance every now and then.

“Are you going to be okay?” he asked. “You seem to be having problems with your dancing shoes. We could go back and have those cha–”

“N-no,” I quipped. “I must overcome my inexperience with these… Besides, if I ever completely lose my balance, you’ll be there to catch me… just like when we met, the first time… remember?”

Why did I say that!? Ahhh!! That’s too much…!

“...You’re right,” he replied and smiled. “You are exerting quite a lot of confidence tonight, aren’t you? I have no objections to that, but I’m loving every bit of it. It’s really interesting to see this part of you show up.”

“Hehe… this is a whole lot of firsts for me,” I said. “I’ll be honest with you, I’m already blissful before the ball has even begun. Seeing you in your best attire, and both of us doing the tradition of asking out to dance made my heart beat faster than the time required for me to change into my dress. By the way…”

“Yes?”

“Do I look beautiful? Be honest and upfront–” I asked.

“...I meant what I said earlier, Alyse.” He said. “No words can describe how gorgeous and captivating you look. I don’t even have proper adjectives to emphasise it for you right now; if those two words were a person, it is you. Though honestly, you’ve always looked beautiful, whether in this dress, or in your casual or royal attire. You’ve always stood out to me.”

I smiled, and blushed. I know those compliments were genuine, though; I just wanted to hear it again, without anyone else around. Quickly realising that we have a ball to attend, I decided to overcome my inexperience with the dancing shoes, and both of us made our way to the ballroom. Instead of directly heading through its doors, though, we took a private detour, only reserved for me. The shock in the retainers’ face when I had a partner will never fade so easily from my sight and mind, as I gave a good chuckle upon realising how funny they looked.

Of course, this sudden detour made Fritz confused. “Pardon me, where are we going?” he asked, looking around as we walked.

“This detour is just for me, initially,” I said. “You know how I usually enter after the master of ceremonies– in this case– my mother, calls me in? This is where I come from. Usually, I’m alone when I do so… but this year, it’s entirely different, with you by my side. That’s why those retainers looked so confused– they weren’t used to me having a partner on these occasions!” I then laughed, and he did so, too.

As the program was only beginning, we went to a function room to wait. We both sat down on a couch, waiting for the cue. Inside the room were multiple speakers, where I could hear the program go as planned. I stared at a nearby clock– as expected, 19:10. Although 10 minutes late, it shouldn’t be a problem. The retainers in the room were still confused about Fritz’s presence, but they weren’t having a problem with it. In fact, I could see others smile. I’m pretty sure these people were also badly waiting for me to have a man alongside me already… oh well.

“What do we do here?” Fritz asked.

“We wait for our cue,” I replied. “Mother’s still doing the opening. You can hear it from those speakers over there. One of the retainers should also signal us, so don’t fret~ we’ll be fine. By the way…”

“Yes?”

“...Remember when I quipped yesterday for us to awe the ballroom in a glamorous way?” I said as I remembered one of the things that I quipped yesterday to him. I held his hand tightly, saying no more, and smiled at him. If anything… I was expressing it to him for us to do so, that it doesn’t even need to be said through words. As our eyes locked to one another, he chuckled, smiled, and nodded.

“By all means,” he said. “We shall steal the spotlight tonight, you and I. We will make this day memorable not just for everyone, but for both you and me.” As he said those, the retainers began to show the signal for us to appear. I stood up, and so did he. I gave him a grin of confidence, and like magic, my inexperience on my dancing shoes disappeared. It’s as if I was fueled by an adrenaline rush, but there is nothing to panic about. Fritz was impressed, and just like me, he too was full of confidence. As we walked towards the doors leading to the ballroom– which were still closed– I held his hand tighter. I could hear the chatter and applause echoing through the small gap from the doors.

“...and now, no party is complete without its host. Let us please welcome the Queen herself!” Mother said.

This is it. As applause thundered through the walls, the retainers slowly opened the doors. The ballroom’s lights shone through, and soon enough, both of us walked through. With bright smiles, and our hands held tightly, we then stole the attention of the entire ballroom. The eyes of many nobles, young and old alike, fixated on both of us. The applause turned into roars of delight and amazements, gasps and praises echoing through the hall. The sight of the country’s monarch, who, for so many years, never had a partner in the Year-End Ball, to be holding the hand of a nobleman at last, was enough to nearly lose the sanity of the crowd. It is exactly as I thought about it yesterday… and the satisfaction in my veins were almost rearing to break from their shackles.

I then curtsied, and Fritz followed by bowing and taking off his fedora. Wasting no time as this is my cue to begin making another long speech about how the year has turned out, I cleared my throat, and the room fell silent. I let go of Fritz’s hand, as I gestured to him that I have to speak. He then sat down by a chair– meant for my dance consort– which had been unoccupied for years, as I went to the pulpit to speak.

“A fine, pleasant evening to all of you present here,” I said. “I know that many of you here are in a state of shock with the current status of the consort’s seat.” The audience then chuckled and applauded for a short period, as I continued to speak.

“Our country continued to flourish as expected within this year, and I am pleased, as the monarch. But this is not the time for me to flaunt about the country and its achievements; we have seen the progression of Illuverendia with our very own eyes. To fuss about it even more might just anger the Great Valkyrijas above,” I said.

“Allow me to speak from my personal experiences and perspective of how I think this year has turned out – not as the Queen of Illuverendia, but like most of you, a noblewoman, and a citizen of our country. This year… has been quite a huge turning point. And I am sure that most of you here, too, feel the same way, or have experienced a lot of changes,” I continued. “I, myself, have learned to overcome my own troubles. I finally learned to properly sort out my own problems, and, lastly, finally do something about… that.” I then pointed at the consort’s seat, where Fritz is sitting. He chuckled, followed by applause from the crowd.

“And that, I thank the Great Valkyrijas for giving me the strength to be able to achieve those feats,” I said. “As this year of 2055 sees its conclusion in a few hours, I express my thanks to our great deities who continue to nurture our state– and ourselves, into a brighter future. As the monarch of this very country, my prayer for the upcoming year is the continuation of the golden age that we are all enjoying. As a citizen, I pray for more strength and determination– not just for me– but for everyone. That is all.” I then bowed and stepped off, under the applause of the crowd, sitting down on my chair.

The opening remarks then concluded minutes later. A time interval for everyone to socialise or try out snacks lies between the opening remarks and the ball itself. We then decided this was best to try socialising with everyone else, and thus I held back Fritz’s hand again.

“Huh? Yes?” he looked. “Is it time to dance?”

“No, not yet, silly,” I chuckled. “The ball proper doesn’t begin until later. As this is a party, this is the time we can use to socialise with others and try some food, if you want to. Speaking of which, why don’t we go around? I’m sure people have a LOT of things to talk about us both.”

“Sure, let’s go!”

He then stood up and held my hand as well. The first couple we would see as we began to walk around is Wolfgang and his girlfriend, Annika. Both of them are in their best attire tonight, with Annika wearing an elegant black dress. Wolfgang complemented it with an equally black tuxedo, as he intended. Both were busy chatting around, in which I decided to poke both of them, causing them to react hilariously.

“Woah! You startled me!” Wolfgang said.

“Alyssa!? WOAH! You have a consort now!” Annika then said, who was very peppy and surprised. “That’s amazing! You won’t be so lonely now and just hanging around the corner~”

“Fuhehe… I’m sure Wolfgang has told you about him a lot, Anni,” I said. “But anyway, this is Prince Friedrich of Brandt-Lusaminia.”

“Pleased to see you here,” he then said and bowed his head a bit. “How do you do, Lady Annika?”

“There’s no need to introduce us!” Annika chuckled. “A pleasure to see you here too, Herr Fritz. I’m fine and dandy as ever.”

“Oh, you two know each other?” I inquired.

“...No Illuverendian family doesn’t know about Herr Fritz, Alyse,” Annika chuckled. “Ditto with the Brandt family. I know about him; I’ve read his works.”

“Fair enough,” I said. “I completely forgot that you’re somewhat of a celebrity, Fritz. Sorry~”

“Ahaha… it’s no problem, I don’t really like being recognised for my fame of being an author,” he replied. “Like you, I want to live a life free of stress, privately. We both suffer from the same situation where we cannot abandon our responsibilities.”

“Oh, that’s definitely true, especially in my case,” I scoffed jokingly. “Anyway, you two have a fun time, okay? We’ll be off to talk with others. Toodles, Wolfgang, and Annika!”

“See you!”

We then both headed off, walking around and waving and greeting the nobles that were fixating their attention to us both. Right now, I wasn’t even feeling embarrassed or nervous… There was this gigantic aura of confidence and pride that was protecting either of us. Suddenly, I caught wind of the wines being served at one of the tables. I decided to bring him there, as there cannot be any party-goer vibes without having a glass of wine.

“Oh, good evening, Your Royal Highness, and Sir Fritz. May we interest you in some wine?” the attendee asked.

“Do you want some?” I asked Fritz.

“Oh, yes, we’ll take two glasses,” he then said. “Just an adequate amount too, please.” The attendee nodded and got to work pouring exquisite grape wine into two wine glasses. As he asked, an adequate amount was poured on both glasses. This meant that the amount was just enough and not near the brim of the glass. We let go of our hands to take each of the wine glasses that were served to us both, and had a little toast.

“Happy Year-End!” we both uttered as we toasted. I then took a sip, and he followed suit. Mm… it was such a delish drink, though. It felt like really old wine, too. I continued taking a sip, eventually finishing the contents of the glass. Fritz also finished his, apparently, and wiped his lips clean, putting his now-empty glass on a tray, indicating he is done.

“That was some good wine. What do you think, Alyse?” he asked.

“Delish. I presume it’s probably from an old era and they’re now serving it. Nevertheless, that was very good. Maybe after the dance, we could have more of these?” I said, placing my now-empty glass on the same tray. “Although, let’s try not to get intoxicated. That’s the last thing I want tonight…”

“We can, of course, but let’s resist temptations as well, okay?” he said and smiled. “Besides, we are not partying to get drunk. This is no college getaway, after all. It’s the noblest of occasions.”

“Of course~” I said and nodded in agreement.

We continued to walk around once more, and this time, I held his left arm. In a formal setting, it is customary for the lady to be on the left of the gentleman, specifically when he is right-handed. Usually, on the outside, the lady should be on the right of the gentleman, but that’s beside the point, and that’s only done when outside, in traffic and full view of the general public. He was surprised and blushed hard as I did so, however. I showed no embarrassment, as I felt comfortable snuggling up to him, like the silly little flirt that I am. Eventually, he got over his sudden spike of blushing and smiled, fully accepting my gesture.

As we wasted several hours going around and chatting with others, Mother then spoke once more, calling the attention of everyone. Her voice reverberated around the hall, and most of us looked towards her direction.

“Ladies and gentlemen, please prepare yourselves for the moment you have all been waiting for. The Ball is about to commence, as it is currently 22:00. Please clear the ballroom floor, and prepare to be in position!”

“It’s time, isn’t it?” Fritz looked at me.

“...Yes.” I smiled. “I’m feeling excited. Come. I just know the spot.” I held his hand again and shuffled through the crowd that were starting to go to their positions. It seemed that I was dragging him though, as he was catching up to me. Neither of us seemed to mind, though, and soon enough, we reached the spot. It was the centre of the ballroom itself, with many other nobles flanking us. Soon enough, he realised where we were, and chuckled.

“You… really went this far, huh?” he asked.

I nodded. As the music director tapped his baton, I extended my hand up to him. These were followed by others doing the same, an indication that the ball would begin shortly. He held back, firmly, and whispered something to my ear:

“I’ll make you the happiest woman in this ballroom tonight. Fret not about failing… Just follow me and we’ll be fine.”

I blushed, and quickly wiped some tears that were beginning to slowly cascade down my face. As another tapping of the baton commenced, the crowd, now readied up for the ball, waited for the music to begin. Seconds later, it surely did start, and it was to the tune of waltz. Something that I had just practised earlier. Holding his hand firmly, our eyes locked to one another once more, and from there, I felt harmony. As the music continued on, the slow, yet fluid dances that both of us were surely enough eye-catching to the spectators. I couldn’t fumble at this point, nor do I even feel like doing so.

“Enjoying it?” he asked.

“Yes… I sure do. I hope I’m not screwing up your rhythm,” I said.

“Ha, definitely not,” he replied.

For a while, the waltz continued, and the dances were as fluid and harmonious as they were. After a while, another music was chosen, continuing the pattern of the waltz as usual. There were no competitions involved, but his movements were very eloquent and I had to catch up at some points. Nevertheless, we continued enjoying our night.

“Quite the dancer, aren’t we?” I chuckled.

“Pardon, am I being too fast for you to catch up?” he asked, smiling but a bit concerned.

“No, no, I’m able to… It’s just I’m still in a feeling of disbelief and enjoyment that I finally am not alone… and that I finally get to enjoy this moment, and with you too,” I said to him. “I’m really glad.” A bright smile was etched on my face as I said those.

“I’m honoured to have made your night,” he replied. “Well, more than honoured, of course.”

“Fuhehe.”

The dances continued, until the music finally reached its conclusion, ending the ball. In the end, applause and cheers were given to all of us, and soon after, a circle of nobles surrounded both of us and gave more cheers than usual. Both of us then curtsied and bowed, although this is a bit too embarrassing for me now…

“That was such a great dance, Your Royal Highness!”

“Well done to both of you!”

“...Thank you, everyone,” I said and smiled. With the ball now over, began a second wave of socialising and snacking around. It was now 23:30– only half an hour remains before this year ends. Feeling a bit bored and stuffed inside, I decided to hold Fritz’s hand and went towards Mother’s direction. He was surprised at this, but followed along.

“Mum?” I called.

“Hm? Yes, dear?” she asked.

“We’ll just excuse ourselves. I need some fresh air for a bit. Please take things from here,” I said. “I feel a bit stuffed up from all those interactions, and I need to unwind from that dance. Hopefully we’ll catch the pyrotechnics at exactly midnight from outside.”

“Be my guest, then, dear. One of the wide balconies there should have a perfect view of the fireworks later,” she said.

“Okay. Thank you, Mum. Happy Year-End~” I said.

“Happy Year-End to both of you.”

After bidding farewell, we both went outside of the ballroom and made our way towards the balconies outside, where there was only peace and quiet, far away from the noise of the party. There was a slight breeze of wind as we stepped out, but I didn’t mind. I looked around, and sure enough, there was an exhilarating view of the city, and the night sky. This is surely a pleasant feeling to have, to be with him alone.

“It’s a lovely sight… isn’t it?” I said, pointing around.

“Indeed… but may I ask why you brought me here?” Fritz asked, looking around as well.

“Don’t you want to spend the time alone with me?” I asked. “I know the vibe of the party in the ballroom is always fun, but… I want my year to end in a special way. Preferably… enjoying the final minutes of this year… with you… without all the noise and disturbance of the general public.”

“Of course I do… I was just surprised,” he replied, smiling. Suddenly, he became seemingly nervous, and I could hear his breathing intensify.

“Are you okay?” I asked.

“Y-yes. I’m just a bit nervous,” he replied. “Um…” As he muttered, he was looking at his pocket watch. “There are only a few minutes left… err…”

“Hmm? Counting down already? Well, it is 23:57, there’s three minutes left before the year ends,” I said. “You seem to be in distress, though… is there something bugging you?” Assuming that he wants to confess something, I said: “Perhaps… you want to say something to me…? Because this is the appropriate time to do so… while we are alon–”

“I do want to confess to you! I love you, Alyssa!” he then uttered, holding my hand tightly, and closed his eyes directly on me. “I couldn’t simply just have a crush on you anymore… my heart has been all but filled with your smiles, and my entire line of concentration has been distracted, all thanks to me thinking about you!... I know this is hasty, but I really love you… will you be my girlfriend?”

I was shocked, but expected this… and I have prepared myself. Earlier, while changing dresses, I remembered his confession. I never gave him an answer… but I allowed him to court me. Throughout those times, he never failed to make me happy and giddy, to a point that I also couldn’t help myself but to also confess. Even if I did play hard-to-get… I knew he was trying his best. At the back of my mind, I decided that another confession in the Year-End would be my ultimate prayer; and… right now, it has been, indeed, answered.

The suddenness of his confession made me blush hard, and soon enough, with no one around, my emotions became unfiltered… Tears cascaded from my eyes, and this time, I began to sniffle… But I kept showing a bright smile. A smile that would then be illuminated, as the pyrotechnics began. The New Year has begun. A new era… a new chapter, and a new life for me… and him. Unable to control myself, I finally gave him my answer, while sniffling:

“H…how could I ever say no…? Of course, yes! I’ll be your girlfriend!” I uttered, and grabbed his cheeks. “I love you too, Friedrich!”

Backdropped by the fireworks, as I grabbed his cheeks, I gave him the most passionate kiss on the lips yet. He then kissed back, and soon after, we were then locked in a tight, mutual, and warm embrace… with our love for one another sealed and bound by a passionate, symbolic kiss. There wasn’t anything stopping me any longer, my heart couldn’t be resisted anymore. After a while, we let go from kissing, and I stared at him… with my red eyes glistening from the tears, and the reflection of the fireworks. My smile was irreversible, and it seemed to be perpetually glued to my face. I felt a strong sensation of happiness flow around me, and truly, the beginning of the New Year signalled the end of my era as a single, and lonely noblewoman.

“Did you enjoy that…?” I asked.

“But of course…” he replied and smiled. “I’m so happy… every positive emotion is just going wild in my head…”

“I’ve been deliberating to answer your confession for a while now… but I decided that a symbolic one would be to answer it at the end of the year. I know our decisions are hasty… but… who cares?” I said, smiling and chuckling, as I wiped the tears from my face.

“Nonetheless… As your boyfriend, I promise– no, I vow to treat you well. I vow to keep you happy as long as we are together. I won’t let you down,” he said.

“Fuhehe~ is that so? Actions do speak louder than words, of course,” I said. “I’m an easy girl to please anyway… I don’t need to be put on a pedestal just so you can show me the intensity of your dedication for me.”

“As casual as ever… I’m really glad to see that side of yours, Alyse,” he said. “By the way… allow me to say one more thing to you.”

“What is it?”

“Happy Year-End… and Happy New Year,” he smiled.

“Silly…” I chuckled. “Happy Year-End, and Happy New Year to you. I pray that this year shall be a great one for us both, and for everyone else…” I said. “Now, allow me to say one final thing to you.”

“Go on?”

“I love you,” I said and smiled.

“I love you too,” he replied.

…And with that, the previous year draws itself into a close. The new year has started, with its blessings already being handed to me. The era of me being alone and single is over, and now begins a new era of me being a girlfriend to the man that I love. Truly… the year has been quite a whirlwind, but nothing beats ending the past year with a high note, and beginning the new one in a crescendo.

Thank you for showing up to my life,
And changing the perspective of my eyes.
Our encounter may have been fateful,
But I am eternally grateful.

Your perseverance has been worth it
For you have given me a reason to commit.
Thank you, allow me to say that I love you
And I will do my best to reciprocate, too.

FIN

Royaume: Origins.
_{Name subject to change.}