Third Arc (Fallen Heart) - 369. Set The Stage

Rose stared at him for a long moment, her expression unreadable. Then, finally, she spoke, her voice steady and thoughtful. "I'll try to help you with this conversation. Just tell me if you need some private time to talk to him. I can move around with the guests and keep them entertained."

Angel's lips curved into a faint smirk, his eyes softening slightly. "I appreciate that. That'll be helpful if the duke's not forthcoming."

She gave him a small smile, though her gaze had already shifted toward the Duke of Pontus across the room. Cassian was engaged in a quiet conversation with Chancellor Allan, his sharp features giving away nothing of his thoughts. Allan gestured subtly toward Angel and Rose, clearly inviting the duke to join them for further discussion.

"It looks like Allan's already set the stage," Rose said quietly, nodding toward the scene. "He's efficient, I'll give him that."

Angel followed her gaze, his expression neutral but his mind already calculating. "He knows how to pick his moments. The duke will be over here soon."

Rose shifted slightly, adjusting the folds of her gown as she glanced back at Angel. "So, what's the play here? Let him talk first? Or are you going to dive right into it?"

"Let him lead," Angel said without hesitation. "It'll give me a better read on his intentions. Besides, if he's here willingly, he already has something he wants to say."

"Smart," Rose murmured, her tone carrying a hint of admiration. "You're good at this, you know."

"It's not my first dance," Angel replied with a small chuckle. "But that doesn't make it any less complicated."

Rose's gaze lingered on him for a moment longer before she straightened, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Alright. I'll play the supportive queen and let you do your thing. But if you need me to distract someone or make an excuse, just give me the signal."

Angel nodded, his smirk softening into something more genuine. "Noted. Thanks, Rose."

Before she could respond, the quiet conversation between Allan and the duke ended, and Cassian began making his way toward them. His steps were measured, his expression calm but unreadable, like a man who'd spent years mastering the art of diplomacy. Behind him, two of his advisors followed at a respectful distance, their eyes scanning the room with the sharpness of hawks.

Rose's fingers brushed briefly against Angel's arm.

Cassian stopped a few paces away, bowing slightly in greeting. "Your Majesties," he said smoothly, his voice carrying the practiced ease of a seasoned politician. "I trust the evening finds you well."

"It does," Angel replied, his tone equally smooth. "And I hope you've found Euphorion's hospitality to your liking."

"More than sufficient," Cassian said with a faint smile. "Your kingdom's reputation precedes it."

"Flattery aside," Angel said, his smirk returning, "I've been looking forward to speaking with you. Pontus is a kingdom I've long admired, and I believe there's much we could learn from each other."

Cassian's brow lifted slightly, intrigue flickering in his sharp eyes. "Admired? That's high praise coming from the Dark King himself."

Angel chuckled softly, his demeanor calm. "Dark King or not, I appreciate strength, strategy, and innovation. Pontus has all three."

Cassian inclined his head, his smile faint but polite. "And Euphorion, of course, is known for its resilience and resourcefulness. It's no wonder our kingdoms have maintained a mutual respect for so long."

Rose watched the exchange closely, her gaze shifting between Angel and the duke. The conversation was polite, but there was an undercurrent of something deeper—like two predators circling each other, trying to gauge the other's strength.

Angel leaned back slightly in his chair, the faintest hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Pontus has always been an intriguing kingdom to me," he began casually, swirling the wine in his glass. "Your advancements in maritime trade alone are enough to make anyone envious."

Cassian inclined his head, his expression neutral but his tone smooth. "We've been fortunate in that regard. The geography of Pontus lends itself to such endeavors. Of course, maintaining that advantage requires constant vigilance."

"Vigilance," Angel repeated thoughtfully, taking a slow sip of his wine. "A trait Euphorion values as well. Our borders may not boast an ocean, but we understand the necessity of staying ahead."

The duke's lips twitched, as if suppressing a smile. "You're modest, Your Majesty. Euphorion's strength is renowned, even among kingdoms far removed from its borders."

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