The grand ball of the Gale Kingdom was in full swing, an opulent spectacle of wealth and refinement. Crystal chandeliers bathed the ballroom in a warm, golden glow, casting a gentle shimmer over the noblemen and aristocrats who glided gracefully in elegant waltzes. Delicate laughter filled the air like tinkling chimes, harmonizing with the soft melody of the string quartet. Every guest was adorned in their finest silks and velvets, their status made evident by intricately embroidered insignias and exquisite jeweled accessories. Amidst the grandeur, ambitious debutantes fluttered like butterflies, their hearts aflutter with anticipation, eager to capture the attention of a wealthy suitor.

Despite his royal status, Crown Prince Nicholas Gale found himself unamused by the festivities. He had danced with noblewomen and conversed with duchesses, yet none had managed to spark his interest. They all seemed predictable and rehearsed, merely part of the grandeur that had grown tiresome to him. However, his attention was suddenly drawn to something—or rather, someone—different. Amidst the sea of extravagance, he noticed a servant girl whose unassuming presence was impossible to ignore. She moved with quiet grace, her hands deftly balancing a silver tray as she navigated between the nobility. Unlike the others, she was not adorned with lavish jewels or silk gowns, but there was something about her—perhaps the way she carried herself or the way she refrained from trying to impress—that commanded his attention.

Nicholas stepped forward without hesitation, his polished boots echoing against the marble floor as he bridged the distance between them. When he stood before her, the difference in their positions was glaringly apparent. Yet, for the first time that evening, he felt a spark of intrigue.

"Excuse me, my lady," he spoke smoothly, his voice rich and composed, yet laced with something softer, something curious. "May I have a word with you?"