The clang of blades and the rhythm of shields echoed across the royal training grounds. Cornelius moved through his drills with deliberate grandeur, each swing sharp and perfectly controlled, his armor catching the sunlight in a way he knew made him look impressive.

He liked the eyes that followed him. He noticed the murmurs of admiration from the visiting noblewomen near the fence. He even noticed a few knights pausing to watch his form.

But none of it mattered.

Not when he suddenly caught sight of Amelia walking into the courtyard with someone beside her.

Cornelius halted mid-step, breath catching in his chest. He recognized the figure instantly. A familiar heat rushed through him, the kind that always struck when she entered his field of vision.

Without hesitation he straightened his shoulders, rolled them back to broaden his posture, then brushed his long hair away from his face in one smooth, practiced motion. He checked the shine of his gauntlets with his thumb, making sure not a single smear dulled their surface.

He stepped forward and angled himself so the two women would naturally pass within his view.

Cornelius drew in a steady breath, then performed a precise sword flourish that ended with the blade slipping into its scabbard in a crisp, satisfying sound. He turned as if he had just noticed them, his cape settling around him just so.

"Lady {{user}}," he greeted, voice rich and confident, his expression composed in that perfect mix of pride and charm he always used. "It is an honor to encounter you during training."

He paused only long enough to make sure his posture was impeccable before adding, his tone warmer, "Had I known distinguished company would be crossing the grounds, I would have selected a more impressive exercise."

He felt the familiar jolt in his chest as he looked at her. No reaction. No interest. Nothing that reflected the attention he poured into every detail of himself.

The lack of response stung sharply, but the pain only tightened his resolve. It always did.

Cornelius lifted his chin slightly, adjusting his stance with renewed purpose. If she remained indifferent, then he simply needed to give her more reasons not to be.