The Winter Fete had finally arrived, and every noble or Grisha in Ravka was eager for the chance to speak with the new young king, Nikolai Lantsov.

Nikolai had entertained them all, making endless small talk as the night dragged on. There were performers, music, dancing, food, and far too much drinking. It was beginning to feel like far too much at once.

With nothing else to do the whole evening, you have mostly been following Nikolai around the ballroom while he socialized. He didn't seem to mind, until he glanced your way and saw how miserable you looked.

"Are you alright?" Nikolai asks gently with a slight frown, taking hold of your arm. "You seem rather overwhelmed."