Shame and Annoyance

Soft, flowing music filled the air—gentle and rhythmic.
Black’s body was stiff—but Alice’s graceful steps had already begun.

Just as she said—Alice fully controlled the dance.

Her lead was clear, strong—a rhythm that couldn’t be resisted.

Black focused all his attention—straining to feel the subtle shifts in force from her hands and body—clumsily following her movements.

Their bodies pressed close—almost breathing the same air.

Black could clearly see every one of Alice’s long lashes.
See the fine down on her pale skin—and those red eyes, like smoldering flames.

A cold yet rich fragrance rose from her—making him dizzy.

In that moment of distraction—his foot lagged half a beat.

“Mmm…”

A soft grunt—Black’s boot accidentally stepped on Alice’s slipper-covered foot.

Ah damn.

Black’s lips twitched—he wanted to apologize—but saw no change on Alice’s face.

As if it hadn’t happened to her at all.

Her steps didn’t pause—not even for a second—fluid, elegant—spinning and moving with Black, her dark red skirt burning like flames in the dance floor.

Her control was incredible—she used her rhythm to completely cover up Black’s mistake.

Black admired her deeply. Alice’s character—aside from weak talent and isolation—was nearly perfect in every other way.

Yet everyone around her only focused on her flaws.

To the watching nobles—their dance was perfect.

The handsome youth in golden uniform—closely embracing the stunning princess.

Moving to the music—intimate, harmonious.

A beautiful couple—a perfect match.

Many noble youths couldn’t hide their envy—even Krystin, who came to watch, smiled slightly wider.

Elaina puffed her cheeks—her bunny ears drooping a little.

The dance neared its end—music rising to a climax.

With Alice’s soft reminder—Black knew the finale was a high-difficulty move.

She needed to spin three times rapidly, supported by his arm—then he must precisely catch her, letting her arch back in an elegant pose.

For a complete beginner—timing was nearly impossible.

But to preserve the princess’s dignity—he had to try.

Alice gently pinched his hand—reminding him to focus.

Then—using his arm for support—she spun like a startled swan.

Her dark red skirt flared fully—pale pink hair drawing dazzling arcs.

One turn—two—three!

At the moment she stopped—Black reached out instantly.

Yet—the move’s difficulty exceeded expectations.

His hands—meant to firmly support her shoulders and back—due to miscalculation and panic—landed fatally off-target.

One hand landed near her slender shoulder blade.

The other… firmly, directly covered her plump, soft breast—with no barrier.

Instantly—a wonderful, soft sensation pierced through gloves and fabric—Black’s brain buzzed.

Blank. His entire body froze—as if electric current surged from palm to every nerve.

He forgot everything—just feeling that shocking elasticity and warmth.

Alice’s body stiffened instantly.

Her eternally icy pale face visibly flushed—spreading from cheeks to ears.

Those always-cold red eyes widened—filled with unbelievable shame and sudden panic.

She never expected—after worrying Seth might do something lewd—
it’d be this man—right under her guard.

Though knowing he wasn’t intentional—Alice was deeply embarrassed.

This was her first time touched intimately by a man.

The feeling? Strange.

Luckily—thanks to Alice’s post-spin pose and Black’s stance—
this Lushan’s claw blunder was cleverly hidden by their bodies and arms.

From the audience’s view—it looked like Black successfully caught the spinning princess.

The move seemed passionately forceful—but overall—intimate, perfect—fitting the Oath Dance’s fiery final pose.

After brief silence—thunderous applause and praise erupted like waves.

In the roaring claps—Black snapped back—like burned, he yanked his hand away.

Heart pounding—near bursting.

Alice instantly stood straight—quickly creating distance.

Her blush hadn’t faded—but her expression forced calm, noble composure.

Only deep in her eyes—lingered traces of shame and anger—she glared at Black, whispering: “You…”

But she said no more—turned away, pretending nothing happened.

Facing the crowd—she bowed slightly—accepting cheers—as if the suffocating embarrassment never occurred.

Only Black remained—frozen—palms still tingling with that soft, bone-melting sensation.

Seeing Alice’s pretend-composure back and reddened ear tips—he felt awkward.

Honestly—Black sighed in relief. He thought Alice would’ve drawn her sword and cut him down.

Maybe after these days together—and tonight’s Azure Triad Contests—Alice had changed her view of him.

Before—Black would’ve been GAME OVER.

Anyway—the chaotic Azure Ball finally ended amid applause.

Nobles left with complex feelings.

Regardless—Black’s name left a deep impression in their hearts.

When Black returned to his room—it was already midnight.

Exhausted—he collapsed on the bed—wanting to sleep forever.

Originally just here to eat—now he’d completed all three contests.

In a way—he’d stolen Jiaye’s spotlight.

Even this hatchling—snoring peacefully.

After covering it with a blanket—Black pondered how to handle the Imperial Winged Dragon.

He needed to find a chance—sever the spirit link—naturally pass it to Jiaye.

Otherwise—with Jiaye’s personality—she’d likely suspect his motives.