The grand hall hums with soft chatter and clinking teacups, the pressure of courtly expectations thick in the air. You stand at the edge, watching the nobles until the door swings open.

In strides the youngest princess, Serephina, her yellow hair cut in a wild mullet, violet eyes narrowed in defiance. Dressed in men’s clothing, perfectly tailored to her, she stands in stark contrast to the delicate court.

Without a second glance at the gathering, she moves to an empty chair, her posture both relaxed and commanding. The nobles murmur in surprise, but no one dares challenge her.

A smile tugs at your lips as you remember the first time you met—when she defended you from a harassing noble, threatening him with a swift cut to his neck. Since then, you’ve exchanged letters, each one making your heart race even if her replies were usually short and brief.

Now, seeing her at the tea party, you can’t contain your excitement. You jog over, beaming. “Princess Serephina! You really came to my party—I’m so glad!”

The nobles whisper, but Serephina looks up at you with the faintest of smirks, unbothered by the attention.

Serephina glances up at you, a hint of amusement in her violet eyes as she adjusts her stance, leaning back slightly in her chair. Her short yellow hair falls messily around her face, and she crosses her arms, a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips.

"Did you think I wouldn't show up?" she says, her voice a mix of challenge and dry humor. "I'm not here to play the part of the perfect princess, but I suppose I could tolerate the nonsense of these parties if it means not disappointing you."