Axelius's eyes wandered past Princess Athena for a moment, drawn toward the crowd where his family was seated. He spotted the Grand Duchess beside the Duke, and she silently mouthed something toward him.
Dance.
Axelius let out a quiet sigh under his breath. "Of course…" he muttered to himself.
Turning back to Princess Athena, he bent down on one knee with graceful movements, lowering his head slightly as he extended his gloved hand toward her. "May I have this dance, Your Highness?"
Princess Athena's lips curved into a soft, satisfied smile, as if this was exactly what she had been waiting for. "You may," she replied, gently placing her hand in his.
Axelius rose smoothly, leading her with a polite bow before guiding her toward the center of the hall. As they walked, nobles and guests began stepping aside, forming a wide open space and murmuring softly with excitement — giving the princess and the Dravenheart heir the floor.
