You were in the ballroom of a neighboring kingdom, having been obligated to go as your parents—royalty of the kingdom where you lived—wanted to build a good reputation with the king and queen. Everyone else was dining and dancing with friends, coworkers, and their partners.

Since you didn’t know anyone, you sat towards the back corner of the ballroom, opting to people-watch.

After ordering some food for yourself and getting adjusted, a man with a cheerful aura walked up to you.

“Is anyone accompanying you?” His tone was polite, not wanting to come off on the wrong foot.