264: Marriage-Seeking Dance Party Begins

"Just now, Lady Viridiana has stepped down from her carriage! The gentleman accompanying her, according to our information..."

"Ah, Lady Viridiana. So you're here with a gentleman..."

"Oh, what exquisite beauty..."

The carriage door opens, and as we move forward, countless camera lenses turn toward us, the sound of shutters clicking like raindrops falling all around.

Flashes burst forth in blinding numbers, brightening the dimly lit section meant to indicate it was nighttime.

Some turn their backs on us, shouting into the news site's live broadcast; others question something toward Viridianiara; still others weep as if overwhelmed with emotion.

What unites everyone gathered here... perhaps it's the desire to gain as much information as possible.

Yet, every person's expression was bright, as if they were also celebrating, and they seemed to be careful not to approach too closely out of respect.

Yeah, there don't seem to be any enemies around.

"Please wait a little longer—I'll explain everything in detail later."

Following instructions, I escorted Viridianiara into the palace-like venue.

As we presented our entry passes and entered the restricted area accessible only to participants, the commotion gradually faded away.

We passed through the courtyard and continued walking toward what resembled a dance hall, where the murmurs grew louder and the number of people increased steadily.

"Satā. As long as you stay by my side, you'll be fine. I'll handle all the complicated negotiations and conversations."

"Understood."

People were entering the dance hall one after another.

At first, the men and women without partners were, in a sense, the stars of today's event.

Next came those who had partners.

I've heard that entering together is virtually equivalent to being engaged, so they're entering together to signify that bond.

Apparently, the order in which these paired couples enter depends on factors like family lineage and such.

That's why, despite being a royal bastard, Princess Vilijanila was last to enter, leaving no one behind us.

What was truly astonishing, though, was that as we slowly walked from the carriage toward the ballroom, just as we reached the entrance, the person ahead of us abruptly stopped, allowing us to enter the ballroom without any waiting time at all.

It was a quiet yet striking demonstration of the empire's remarkable management efficiency.

"Next, His Excellency Vilijanila En Banalagenroot P. Banalishido and Miss Sata Common Seitekusu L. Seiryoo will be entering."

"Then, shall we go?"

"Understood."

Vilijanila and I step into the ballroom.

Inside were... numerous elegantly dressed men and women, lavish feasts adorned with extravagant delicacies, and servants quietly going about their duties without drawing attention.

The types of glances directed at me here... are so varied and chaotic that I can't even begin to understand them.

Not everyone was pleased, nor were they hostile; some were assessing the situation, while others seemed already to have formed their opinions.

Well, I just need to pay attention to anyone who physically tries to harm Vilijaniira.

That's my role.

I'll just pray that nothing happens, hoping I can manage to eat a little of the meal.

"Lord Vilijaniira. Congratulations on this occasion..."

"You are the one who has become engaged, aren't you? I've heard much about you..."

"Nice to meet you, Lord Vilijaniira. It's an honor to be seated here today..."

"My name is..."

Well, now that we've entered the dance hall, the matchmaking ball seems to have officially begun.

Soft, calming music begins to fill the hall.

This isn't music played from recordings or generated by simple machines, but an elaborate performance using instruments that predate the Galactic Empire—played live and directly by skilled musicians.

As the music starts, single men and women naturally begin seeking partners, engaging in conversation, sharing meals, or inviting one another to dance.

No, some people aren't even trying to find a partner here today—they're gathered with same-sex friends, chatting and enjoying themselves.

Most, though, are following the usual script of a marriage-seeking dance event.

And those who arrived with a partner are coming over to greet Viridiana.

It seems they're making the most of this rare opportunity, hoping to establish a connection with Viridiana.

Also, some of the people who come over to greet me with greetings also greet me directly, so I bow slightly and respond with words as I've been taught, making sure not to be impolite.

As for those who don't greet me... I simply don't greet them in return and remain in the shadows.

"……"

Also, unnoticed by me, Memokushi and Johariss have quietly appeared behind me, so it's almost certain that Memokushi is filming and recording the people who greet me.

Yeah, if their behavior gets too bad, it might cause trouble in various situations down the line. That's scary.

"Congratulations on your engagement, Lady Vilijanira. And… you must be Sir Satu, correct? Congratulations as well. Though the days ahead may be challenging, please know that we will stand by you."

"Thank you very much."

And so, continuing to receive greetings, watching as the person I'm addressing shifts from those already partnered to those who are not… gradually, I began to understand something.

It seemed there were people here who understood the situation between Vilijaniela and me, while others appeared completely unaware.

I decided to try separating them mentally.