#Josephine Roselei

[vilandel]

Silver Cats & Black Roses

Chapter 28 – Unexpected For Nobles

A/N It's Waltz Time! The music in this chapter is a very famous waltz, Blue Danube by Strauss... I couldn't resist to use it to make Yamichar and even more Nozessa dance 💙💜 Also, Rill is a cutie pie.

Ao3 link

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Vanessa really wanted to try the fancy wine at the buffet, at least just one glass, maybe even one sip. She never had many occasions to try the most expensive wine in the kingdom, after all.

But she hold back, which was easier to achieve she would have thought. But that wasn’t too surprising, as she longed more for Nozel than for wine at this point.

Vanessa sighed deeply. She hadn’t managed to join Nozel yet, as so many nobles tried to get his attention and he tried his best to avoid them. That must be a very daily thing when you were the head of a royal house, but Vanessa knew that her boyfriend loathed this kind of obligation.

All she wanted was to be with him, to comfort him. But to reach him was easier said than done, with the nobles trying to get Nozels attention and his horrible father watching him, ready to do what was necessary to make him yield.

Maybe it was just her imagination, but Vanessa was sure that Lac Silvas observant eye was also on her. Rather creepy, but in his mind, she was just a mere stone on his path, a hurdle towards his goal and if he wasn’t paying attention, she could become a danger for his ambitions.

Vanessa hated that Lac Silva considered himself above everyone else. Even worse, given how smart he was, the power he possessed and the immaculate reputation he had, in a way he was just that. From what she learned thanks to Océane Vermillion, he came from a house of low nobility, who was practically at the end of its career so to speak, and he still managed to rise above. It was impressive, there was no denying that.

But… Vanessa had always thought before that when someone came from a bottom and climbed the ranks, it was because of being kind hearted and wanting to do good for others. Asta was the living proof of that.

Sadly, Lac Silva was quite the opposite. One would have thought that by being married to royalty, he would have helped his birth house from complete disgrace and Acier Silva would have been certainly happy to help him. But Lac Silva never did anything, he was only loyal to himself. Even for an arrogant noble, not being loyal to your birth house at least a bit was still a rarity. Either because said birth house was too horrible to stay loyal to it for reasons. Or because your heart was too cold and arrogant to care for a falling house.

Vanessa was rather certain in which category someone like Lac Silva falls.

If she would listen only to her instincts, Vanessa would have loved to beat him up and giving him a piece of her mind. But as good this would have felt for a moment, it would have gotten her only more difficulties and consequences, as well as for the Black Bulls and Nozel, not to mention house Silva and probably also the Silver Eagles.

What had auntie Océane said? Be discreet, play the game and use your own rules to play. Vanessa was such a newbie in this so called game, she was still trying to understand all those complex details. Not to mention that not every noble and not every royal was good at playing this. Noelle, despite her knowledge, was rather lost in the etiquette, and Nozel was too honest, unable to manipulate. He doesn’t even want to, never did.

It was actually impressive how he managed to come this far with secrets and no lies, while never healing from his loss until recently.

Vanessa admired his inner strength, but it was time for him to not be alone anymore. She would be at his side from now one. And for that, she had a lot to learn about the world of royalty and nobility.

Océane Vermillion had said that a ball was a good opportunity to learn and to observe. Vanessa still wasn’t sure how she could learn in a place like this, but observe, this she did since she entered the ball.

She saw Noelle barely left her brother’s side, which was reassuring for Vanessa. At least, Nozel wasn’t alone and Noelle knew about them. She saw Solid Silva standing next to the buffet, a plate in his hand and eating something that seemed to be an éclair, looking bored. She saw Nebra talking to Zora, next to one of those huge golden pillars, almost hiding in the shadows.

Vanessa frowned. Why did it looked like they were aggressively flirting?

She definitely will investigate this in the near future. But for now, she had other things to focus on.

Lital Lys was dancing with captain Fuegoleon, probably the third or fourth dance. Vanessa smiled. If there’s going to be a betrothal during this ball, that wasn’t do to traps and that was decided out of love, then it would be undoubtedly captain Fuegoleon and Lital.

Vanessa was standing pretty close to the dancefloor and so, she waved at them as they danced nearby. Lital took the time to wave back with a smile and captain Fuegoleon nodded very kindly to her.

Nozels rival had also a knowing look in his eyes when he glanced at her. Vanessa didn’t know what to think about it. Could he know somehow? Captain Fuegoleon wasn’t an idiot and he knew Nozel rather well since childhood.

Well, if he knew already or not yet, Vanessa was certain that there was no danger coming from the captain of the Crimson Lions. In fact, he was certainly going to be a precious ally for her and Nozel.

Vanessa watched Lital and Fuegoleon waltz away from her, looking lovingly in each other’s eyes. She envied them a tiny bit. How much she wanted to be dancing with Nozel right now. Letting him lead, being in his arms, feeling as they were the only ones in the world…

Thinking back at their very first talk back in Spade, it was so unbelievable that she came to love him so truly, so deeply. But Vanessa wasn’t surprised at all. Maybe it was meant to be, maybe it was just a coincidence. But it happened and along with the Black Bulls, Nozel was one of the best things that happened in her life. She cared so much for him that Rouge now had also effect on Nozel. There was no way she would let him go at this point.

She looked at the waltzing pairs. So many nobles, so many people who didn’t danced with someone they loved, be it romantic or platonic.

Vanessa didn’t envy those people, she envied those who were actually dancing with the one they loved, whether they admitted it already or were still unaware about it or denial. Lital and Fuegoleon, Gauche and Grey, who looked so lovely in her silver dress and the black ribbon around her neck. Finral and Finesse, who looked so perfectly lovely in their matching green and silver clothes. And was that auntie Dea dancing with Luck at the other side of the dancefloor?

But despite her small envy, Vanessa wasn’t mad at those couple. On the contrary, she was really happy for them. In a way, it helped her, it strengthened her resolve to be with Nozel. As if it wasn’t already strong before.

She looked around this immense ballroom again, trying to find her boyfriend. She had to get to him, to follow one of auntie Océanes plans and win this battle. And show the world that Nozel was neither a chess piece nor a prize to win.

The Black Bulls were of course on edge, like most of the Magic Knights, because of what this ball was secretly implying. But they were also having fun, of course. Because the Black Bulls were always having fun, no matter what how everyone else would view it.

Gauche and Grey were dancing, as well as Finral and Finesse. Zora and Nebra just disappeared behind a pillar and Vanessa giggled, certain that they might started to do something a bit spicy. Luck was bonding with auntie Dea, Gordon and Henry were talking with a bunch of Blue Rose girls. Vice-captain Nacht was apparently in the small side-salon which had been organized as a gambling area. Vanessa giggled as she reminded how with the help of Finral and Noelle, Nacht successfully made captain Yami promise to not gamble in any way this night. A promise their captain probably only took in the end, because he certainly preferred to spent the night with captain Charlotte.

Speaking of, she had seen them dancing a bit and doing their best to avoid one of Charlottes suitor who wasn’t giving up to get a grip on her. And they also hide behind one of those golden pillars from time to time.

How much she wanted to do the same with Nozel…

But still, Vanessa smiled. She was truly happy for Yami and Charlotte. She hasn’t forgotten how surprised she has been to learn that those two captains were finally, finally together. And this like four or two days ago, when they were both coming to try their dresses for tonight’s ball.

Vanessa hadn’t only won an ally that day, but also a friend. Well, captain Charlotte had become a friend of the Black Bulls already during all those visits and being Lucks older long lost older sister. But now, she also became a close friend for Vanessa. They could relate about the situation of their respective love lives and how stupidly adorable their boyfriend could be.

Charlotte had also told her mother about the situation and Orchidea, who already knew that Vanessas loved one was from royalty or nobility, had given her full support as well. Which was actually welcomed, Vanessa certainly needed friends within those circles. It was a good thing to know kind, truly good people like Océane, Finesse, Charlotte and Orchidea up there. Of course, there was also Lital, but she had her own special position as a legitimated bastard daughter.

As she continued to look around, Vanessa saw Charmy at the buffet, which wasn’t surprising. But while she was eating, she was also talking to Rill Boismortier, the captain of the Aqua Deers. And they looked to be rather close. Had she missed something? Nero, absolutely lovely in her black dress with a few red patterns, was watch very calmly Magna and Asta having some kind eating competition. And there was a very upset Noelle walking towards them.

Wait a minute. Noelle had been with her older brother not too long ago. What happened?

Suddenly fearing for the worst, Vanessa looked around her, searching for burgundy satin with silver embroideries. She sighed in relief when she finally found Nozel again. But her relief was short-lived when she saw who was with him.

Lac Silva.

Oh no, that horrible man managed to get a grip on Nozel! Instinctively, Vanessa moved forward before she even realized it. She needed to go to him. And she would go to him. After all, she had promised to never let Nozel alone ever again. Oh, her boyfriend was doing fine, he had his back towards Lac. But still, Nozel was not alone anymore dealing with scumbags, he had her now!

But Vanessa was only able to do a few steps before a hand touched her arm.

“Oh, miss Vanessa, isn’t this a wonderful ball.”

Vanessa did her best to not sigh in frustration. It was just Josephine Roselei, Charlottes younger cousin, who accompanied them as well as Orchidea to the ball.

Of course, Josephine Roselei had no idea that Vanessa was the girlfriend of the captain of the Silver Eagles. Charlotte and Orchidea told their relative that Vanessa had been on a mission nearby and they invited her to get ready for the ball with them, because it would be easier to reach than to go back the base of the Black Bulls.

Thankfully, the young girl had believed it.

Josephine Roselei loved gossip and was a bit snob like a typical noble, but not that much. She was still kind, only a bit naïve and innocent. Vanessa got rather along with her. To her luck, Josephine also loved fashion and her dress had immediately won her over.

“Well, yes, lady Josephine, it is quite enjoyable so far.”

“Do you think that there are some betrothal that are going to be announced tonight? I have heard that this kind of ball was used to organized engagements between noble houses, sometimes also royal houses.”

“Oh, I heard about this as well. But I think it’s not the case anymore today.”

“Yes, it’s not a betrothal ball anymore. No one would do something like that to engage people behind their backs, when there’s nothing official to back them up. And in my opinion, no one can be that desperate.”

Vanessa hold back a bitter laugh. Oh, that sweet naïve noble girl. If only she knew…

“You seem a bit upset about that fact, my sweet lady.”

“Well, of course! I would love to be engaged to a good, honourable lord, who would cherish me and honestly, I would adore to have a bunch of suitors running after me. But well… I’m not the most endearing party of house Roselei.”

“Oh come on, you’re a sweet girl with those brown hair and lilac eyes, not to mention that this gown in autumn shades suits you perfectly. There will be certainly some who would love to court you.”

“Yeah… But compared to my cousin Charlotte, I’m rather bland and still rather young. Of course they prefer the best party of house Roselei to me. But I don’t blame them, Charlotte is rather amazing in every way she looks and even more in everything she does! After all, she’s a Magic Knight captain and I’m just a standard noble lady who just came of age.”

“Well, to be fair, captain Charlotte doesn’t seem to be eager to be courted by all those suitors. I’ve seen her lately with captain Yami.”

“The captain of the Black Bulls? Oh, that’s a good way to scare away some lords. He looks scary and I know he is a mere foreigner, but damn… he’s so hot as well! I love buff men, too bad that it’s not a noble beauty standard. But if you ask me, it should be!”

“I like buff men as well, but between us, it’s not my favourite type.”

“Oh, what kind of men do you prefer?”

“Let’s see. Between buff and skinny, I’d say, fine muscles that doesn’t stand out. Oh, and elegant traits without being too round or too pointy. It’s a bit difficult to explain. The type of men like Nozel Silva for example. I find him pretty handsome.”

“That he is. But he’s royalty and royals are always beautiful. Look, he’s talking with his father, lord Lac. He’s quite handsome as well for his age, but he would be even better without the moustache. I hate moustaches, men should only let them grow once they are old. It’s a grandfather style.”

“Tell me, what do you think are they talking about?”

“Oh, probably about lord Nozels future wedding. There are rumours about it lately and also reasons to believe that they are true. Most people are betting either on Prudence Évantail or Athénaïs Vitrail to be the future lady Silva.”

Oh, yes, Vanessa knew that. It was fair to say that Lac Silva, Prudence Évantail and Athénaïs Vitrail were the three people she was currently hating the most in this ballroom and probably in general. Mostly because how the view Nozel and how they behaved with him.

She had seen Prudence and Athénaïs a few times during this ball. Only from afar, there was no way she wanted to ever talk to them. Besides, both of these bitches probably weren’t even aware of her existence.

Even right now, Prudence and Athénaïs were mostly either glaring at each other like two wild beasts ready to fight or focused on Nozel looking at him with such greed it made Vanessa almost wanna puke. Prudence, looking sadly amazing in this wide dark green and golden gown, wasn’t that discreet, looking at Nozel like a dry plant longing for water. Athénaïs, who was sadly not an awful vision with this royal blue mermaid dress with the golden patterns, was more holding back, probably due to the presence of her sister Rosette, but anyone must have been blind to not see how she looked at Nozel in superior and possessive way.

It really made Vanessa sick.

Josephine hadn’t noticed anything from her, as she continued to talk. “Even those two believe that one of them is going to married to Nozel Silva one day. But, between us, I firmly believe that neither of them will be a Silva princess. Lord Nozel is so secretive and mysterious, he might surprise anyone with his choice. After all, he put lady Noelle in the Black Bulls and from what I heard, she’s doing great so it wasn’t a bad choice like everyone said. I’m ready to bet the family jewellery of house Roselei that the future wife he has chosen is going to be a surprise as well.”

This made Vanessa raise a brow. “You really believe that? Do you think that… maybe it might not even be a noble.”

“That would honestly be very bold, but even though I don’t quite believe it, why not? It would still be a surprise and aunt Orchidea told me that not all commoners and peasants are bad people, and she usually right. I mean, you’re a witch but you’re actually so much nicer than most nobles my age, miss Vanessa.”

“Oh, thank you for the compliment. You know what, as thanks I will make a kind young man dance with you, you clearly deserve that. Let’s see… Oh, Klaus, over here!”

Klaus Lunettes from the Golden Dawn came to them immediately, as the rather stern but kind gentleman he was.

“Miss Enoteca, how nice it is to see you again.”

“That’s Vanessa for you, honeybun. Klaus, I need a favour from you.”

“How can I be of any help?”

“I’m not sure you’re acquainted with lady Josephine Roselei. Isn’t she looking lovely? She is also a very lovely girl, but sadly no lords are kind and polite enough to invite her for even one dance. Would you be such a gentleman and invite her for the next dance?”

Vanessa didn’t even wait for Klaus’ answer, as she practically put Josephines arm on his and pushed them towards the dancefloor.

Good, now Josephine has finally a kind guy to spend some time with and Vanessa could finally sneak behind Nozel and Lac. Too bad she couldn’t hear anything, but she could see disappointed and arrogant Lac was looking, while Nozel has still turned his back to him.

“Continue like this, honey. I know you won’t yield to him.”

“Need any help?”

Vanessa jumped and turned around. An old and a young woman were standing behind her. The younger one was Grenadine, Nozels adorable little newbie, which immediately calmed Vanessa down. But she didn’t know the old lady.

“My name is Julia Ambrosia, probably the oldest member of the Silver Eagles, nice to meet you properly. You can call me granny. Vanessa, right? You want to talk with young Nozel? Let me handle this. You, Grenadine, you stay with her.”

Before Vanessa had any occasion to respond, Julia already walked firmly towards Nozel and Lac Silva. Grenadine put a hand on her arm in compassion. “Granny Julia is still pretty quick for her age, but you don’t have to worry, she will save captain Nozel from his father.”

“He indeed looks like he could use some saving,” Vanessa replied slowly, having the impression to miss something. “How are you, snookums? No problems with your fathers family so far?”

“The worst most of them do tonight is ignoring me, which is honestly the better option compared to others. But not everyone is ignoring me. Thanks to my sister Églantine, I finally was able to meet another brother, Candid, as well as a great-aunt, Clémentine. Those three are the only Évantails that are accepting me and honestly, it’s more than I could ever dare to ask for. I’m actually happy to call them family.”

“I’m happy for you,” Vanessa said with a smile. She became quite fond of this little Silver Eagle, not only because of Nozel, but also because Grenadine was just such a nice young girl.

Grenadine smiled back at her. “Captain Nozel is happy for me as well. You two are truly perfect for each other. Granny Julia was right about that.”

“Wait, what?”

Vanessa had no occasion to properly ask, as said granny Julia pushed a pretty much confused Nozel towards her and said, “Go finally enjoy the ball together, you two lovebirds. Come, Grenadine, our job here is done.”

Before either Nozel or Vanessa could reply anything, both Silver Eagles immediately went away, Grenadine back to her three good family members, Julia to the buffet table were all the alcohol was.

“Honey, please tell me I’m not the only who has the feeling to have missed something,” Vanessa giggled, rather amused by this whole scene.

“Do you think they know?” Nozel asked back, looking so adorably confused.

“Well, it seemed like it. I can’t imagine how they would have find out, though. But maybe they saw me sneak into the base of the Silver Eagles once and added two and two together.”

“We probably weren’t as cautious as we thought. Or at least me. I was always so eager to see you that-“

“Oh, honey, you should really stop to blame yourself. And besides, it was pretty obvious that your two knights were supportive of us. Don’t focus on that, how are you feeling?”

Vanessa put a hand on Nozels cheek and could have melted when he pressed his own hand tenderly against hers. It felt so good to be finally so near to him again, to be filled by his mere presence, to feel his heart beating just as fast as her own.

“Lac wanted to make me swear to dance with either Prudence Évantail or Athénaïs Vitrail, or at least with another suitable noble lady for the upcoming Three Leaves Waltz. That’s why I have turned my back to him. Not replying to him and not looking him at him seemed like the best way to avoid anything you could do to make me yield. If I would have walked away, Lac would have followed me.”

“What a prick. Did he tried to threaten your siblings or anyone else you care about?”

“I’m certain he was about to do that. But Julia barged in before he could even say anything. Thankfully. I don’t if I would have been able to hold back more if Nebra, Solid or Noelle would have been threaten by him. Or you.”

“How can I blame you for that?”

Of course she couldn’t. Vanessa knew how much Nozel could care deep down. It wasn’t open with him, at least compared to Finral and Asta who were also deeply caring. But Nozel cared a lot and this was one of Vanessas favourite traits about him.

Threatening Nozel himself wouldn’t bring anyone anything. But threatening the people he cared about the most, that was another story. Vanessa knew that and it wouldn’t be surprising if Lac Silva was well aware of that fact as well.

Nozels free hand was now softly caressing her cheek, so Vanessa did like him and pressed her other hand against his. They were in the middle of a crowd, everyone could see and at the same time, between all this chatting, it was also possible that no one would take notice of them. It didn’t matter anymore to Vanessa. She didn’t care if anyone could see them now. After all, both of them were ready to finally go out of secrecy.

“You’re beautiful…” Nozel whispered, so simple, so soft, so tender.

“Thanks, honey. You’re very dashing as well,” Vanessa replied with a smile. She had been so happy to see that he was wearing the cape she had made him months ago. He even got himself a new ceremony suit to go with it! Vanessa knew that burgundy would suit him and even better, Nozel was wearing that cape with such pride. A fact that filled her with immense happiness.

Handsome. Just so handsome in every way.

Nozel sighed deeply, before asking, “Did everything went fine for you so far? Did you got no troubles with anyone from nobility?”

“Aw, you’re so sweet when you’re worried about me. But nothing happened so far. For most nobles, I’m just the infamous Drunken Witch of the Black Bulls. Not worth to take notice of.”

“You’re worth to me.”

“Which is good, I care about how feel than about noble jerks I don’t even know yet. But as a future wife to a royal Head of House, I might going to know them. Even though I really have no idea what is expected from such a role. Your horrible old man to be rather an exception on that matter.”

Nozel had blushed when she talked about being a future royal wife. Of course, they haven’t properly talked yet about wedding and marriage and such, but like auntie Océane told her lately, it was just a matter of time at this point. And Vanessa was more a person to call a cat a cat.

Still, Nozel smiled at her and pointed with his head to a direction. “You see this man over there? The giant with the white mane, wearing the crimson and golden ceremony suit. This is Achilles Vermillion, current head of house Vermillion, ancient captain of the Crimson Lions and grandfather of Mereoleona, Fuegoleon, Leopold, Kirsch and Mimosa. And three other Vermillions. I won’t bother you with all his other Vermillion relatives.”

“You did told me once it is a rather big house. Hm… he looks like an arrogant prick.”

“He actually is. I did told you that he loves putting shade on us Silvas for multiple reasons. It doesn’t matter if he gets contradictory, Achilles Vermillion would never admit it, he has too much arrogance for that. Apparently, it was already like that while my grandfather had been alive, always afraid if the other house was making better, always throwing shade, always brag if the own house was making better. Then it was with my mother and then me.”

“Gosh. And here I thought that most Vermillions were nice. Five of his grandchildren are amazing people. But to be fair, I don’t know many Vermillions. I don’t know many royals in general.”

“Six of his grandchildren are good people. Geneviève Vermillion is also very likable, I’ll admit. She became a nun, which isn’t common for royalty, but at least she is happy. The other two, though… they got the arrogance of most royals.”

“And who’s the old frail lady next to that Achilles prick?”

“His wife, lady Violet. Her situation is probably what awaits most royal spouses when you’re married to house head, especially in arranged marriages. Be quiet, staying in the shadow of your spouse and giving heirs to the house. Nothing else. Or you try to play a game and become someone important, you gain your own power. Lac is of course part of the second option. But he is still rather an exception, because of how far he came by playing the game for his own goals. He played everyone like a fiddle and Achilles regrets to not have him in his house. Lac came from a lost noble house and managed to reach the top. But of course, his example is not one to follow, as he only worked for himself. I don’t want either of those two situations for you, Vanessa. I know you will never act like my father. But you see how quiet and invisible Violet Vermillion is. I refuse to let you become like this as well, it would be like a cage.”

“Nozel, I KNOW that you would never put me in a cage. That wouldn’t be you, with how much care and the person you are today. But I needed to know how being a spouse to a royal Head of House would be. Now, we both can make the difference. You’ve been carrying your house and mothers legacy for so many years alone. I want to be at your side, to help you and to make sure you can relax more often. I would a very bad girlfriend if I just let you be all alone again.”

Nozel didn’t answered, but the look in his eyes was worth more than thousands words. Vanessa wished she could kiss him, but this was rather difficult right now, in the middle of a crowd. Maybe if they could hide behind a pillar, just like captain Yami and captain Charlotte or Zora and Nebra… Vanessa grinned. That sounded like a plan.

But just as she took Nozels hand, a sound was heard from the other side of the ballroom, making them both turn towards that direction.

“What happened?” Vanessa asked.

“I don’t know. It looks like Mereoleona has to be hold back by her brothers to beat up someone. Probably a mere noble who might be rather desperate to court her. No one in their right mind would ever dare to court Mereoleona Vermillion.”

Vanessa chuckled. That sounded about right.

All the other people, even those around them, were now focused on the fire Vermillions and the poor lad that try to invite Mereoleona to dance of something. Nozel noticed that as well, as he put an arm around her waist and pulled her into a slow, deep kiss.

Vanessa was very taken aback by his action. After all, even with the focus being on someone else than them, they were still in the middle of a crowd. But it didn’t matter anymore. Vanessa gave in to the kiss, holding on Nozels shoulders as if her life depended on it.

Maybe it did.

“My gosh, honey. That was very bold, especially for someone like you.”

“I don’t care, I’m tired of keeping you a secret.”

Of course he did. And this was probably one of the traits Vanessa loved the most about him. She cupped his face again with one hand, looking lovingly into his eyes. One year ago, she would have never imagined to fall in love with him. But after Spade, it had been just a matter of time.

The orchestra started to play again, announcing a new dance, letting the dancers two to three minutes to find a partner and to join the dance floor.. And something with everyone’s reactions around them gave Vanessa uneasy feeling.

“Is it time already? For this betrothal-trap dance?”

“Yes. This is the music for the Three Leaves Waltz, which goes practically hand in hand with the Three Leaves Glory ball. Officially, it’s not to engage anyone anymore, but this is still the main idea behind it. Especially for those nobles who demanded for this ball.”

“Like Lac…”

Nozel nodded. She could tell that he was nervous, but there was a determination in his eyes she has rarely witnessed before. He would fight for her, for them. If he was so determined, then she was too.

“Are you ready?”

“With you, always.”

Just like at the wedding of Finral and Finesse, Nozel lead her towards the dancefloor. Slowly, as if she was a true princess, showing her off, proud to have her at his side. It felt a bit like they were already married.

Vanessa heard gasps and whispering around them as they reached the still empty dancefloor. But she didn’t pay any attention to it, her entire focus was on Nozel, on the man she would spend the rest of her life with.

It was only as the preparation music stopped and that Nozel stood in front of her, one hand taking hers, the other on her waist, that Vanesa realized they were still the only couple on the dancefloor.

Were the others that shocked?

“Honey, is this fine?” Vanessa couldn’t help but whisper.

Nozel just smiled at her. He was clearly as nervous as she was, but it was still reassuring. Especially as he whispered back, “Just look at me, Vanessa. It doesn’t matter what others think of us.”

Yes, he was right.

The music started.

And from this moment on, nothing else and no one else mattered. It was just them swaying across the dancefloor, only looking at each other.

Vanessa couldn’t take her eyes from Nozel and he kept looking at her as if she was a dream come true. Maybe she was for him. He certainly was for her. A dream she never realized she had before and it became true before she ever knew how much she wished for it.

He hold her hand and her waist firmly, but still in such a tender way. His eyes were full of love. It felt like they weren’t in the ballroom anymore, but somewhere else, a place only the both of them were aware of.

Vanessa smiled and felt her heart melt as Nozel smiled back. There was no need to hide their love anymore.

♣♣♣

Fuegoleon smiled as he watched his rival dancing with his beloved across the dancefloor. Alone, while everyone was staring at them, mostly in shock. Of course, no one would have thought that Nozel Silva would dance with Vanessa Enoteca, the Drunken Witch of the Black Bulls. It was a sight to see the couple dancing all alone and he was still surprised that Nozel, who always hated to be in the spotlight, had for once no issues about it.

Maybe because he was too much focused on Vanessa to realize that they were the only couple on the dancefloor.

The only couple on the dancefloor during the famous Three Leaves Waltz, which was supposed to officially engage people to each other behind their backs. The supposed highlight of the Three Leaves Glory ball.

Probably for the first time in his life, Nozel openly made nobility understand that he didn’t care about what they desired from him. Fuegoleon smiled, he knew that his rival deserved that.

Fuegoleon side-glanced at Lital, who had her arm on his and was watching at the dancing couple with pride. He remembered how his beloved came to him after her first day of work for Soie Velours and telling him that she had found out who Nozels secret lover was. Of course, Fuegoleon already knew that it was someone who wasn’t a noble nor another royal. But it still surprised him that it had been Vanessa Enoteca of all people. His first suspect had been Dorothy, but despite being more or less close, he never had felt any spark between her and Nozel.

But with Vanessa, he could see and feel the sparks. Fuegoleon might not know how those two found each other, but it was obvious much Nozel and Vanessa loved each other. Even though many nobles couldn’t see it.

“What a scandal,” a noble lady whispered next to him, a glass of champagne in her hand. Actually, she wasn’t a noble, but a royal. His own aunt, lady Leocadia Vermillion. Still looking pretty young for her age.

Fuegoleon didn’t like his aunt. In fact, the only aunt he loved was Océane. Who was looking proudly at her nephew dancing with a witch. So, this would mean that she wasn’t surprised, maybe she even knew it before.

“This… This can only be a mistake, right?” another noble lady whispered in a panicking voice. Oh, lady Cristal Vitrail. Fuegoleon wasn’t surprised she was a bit panicked. After all, her older daughter was considered a top candidate for Nozels future wife.

“A mistake, ladies? I don’t think so,” Lital replied with a very innocent voice. “Why would lord Nozel ever risk to make a mistake in front of everyone? We all know that this is not his style.”

Aunt Leocadia was about to reply, when Rosette Vitrail, lady Cristals younger daughter, looking gracious in her dark grey dress and the lilies at the bottom in three different shades of pink, stepped from behind the group.

“I’m certainly not an expert. But I think that they look beautiful together.”

Fuegoleon smiled. He didn’t know lady Rosette a lot, but right now, she seemed to be one of the most intelligent persons in this ballroom.

“You are right, lady Rosette. They look indeed beautiful, do they not?” Fuegoleon replied, putting some authority in his last sentence. Which had the effect he expected, as the other nobles around him immediately started to agree with him.

Sometimes, it was a good thing to use his royal authority.

“Then, why shouldn’t we join them on the dancefloor? After all, it’s not like this particular waltz can betrothed people to each other,” Fuegoleon continued with an innocent smile. “Pardon me, aunt Leocadia, I have to leave you alone now. Lital, would you do me the honour?”

“Of course.”

He lead Lital to the dancefloor, amused that some couples immediately followed their example. Like Yami and Charlotte.

“Do you still want to do it this night?” Lital asked after a moment, while they were swaying across the dancefloor.

“Yes, my dearest. It would help Nozel and Vanessa, not to mention Yami and Charlotte as well, so that the gossip won’t fall completely upon them. We both know how destroying this can be. And also… we waited for ten years, don’t you agree.”

Lital just smiled, her nacreous eyes brightening up as she did. Fuegoleon smiled back while leading her gracefully across the dancefloor.

Yes. Tonight would be a huge step towards the future, not only for Lital and himself.

♣♣♣

“Calm down, Yami. You’re disturbing the dance, just saying.”

“Forget the dance, I need to have a closer look.”

“I can’t forget the dance, since were dancing right now, in this very moment. That you’re worried about Vanessa, I can understand. But you don’t need to overreact like an overprotective brother, there’s nothing to worry about.”

“Nothing to worry about? She’s dancing with Bird Braid of all people!”

“They’re a couple.”

“That makes it even worse.”

Charlotte hold back a laugh. She didn’t know which was funnier. The fact that Yami was ridiculously upset about Nozel and Vanessa being a couple or the fact that despite his Ki-reading, he still haven’t realized that she wasn’t surprised by the reveal, which meant that she already knew.

Vanessa and Charlotte had agreed to not tell their respective boyfriends about their discovery before the ball. On one hand it was because Nozel and Yami were still rather stiff with each other, even though there was no hate like this between them. But this wasn’t the main reason. To be fair, it was more Vanessas idea, because she thought their reaction could be funny to witness, especially Yamis.

Well, she had been right about that one.

Charlotte just rolled her eyes as Yami tried again to have a better view on Nozel and Vanessa.

Which made them sway right into the third or fourth couple since the start of this dance. Thankfully, it was Gauche and Grey this time.

“You two, keep an eye on Bird Braid and Vanessa. Order from your captain.”

“No, enjoy your dance. There’s nothing to get all fed up about, trust me. I’ll handle your captain, okay?”

Grey was of course blushing terribly and Gauche looked upset for a second, then confused. After glancing suspiciously at Nozel and Vanessa waltzing peacefully, his eyes turned back to Grey. And Gauche seemed to conclude that it was better to trust the captain of the Blue Roses and to focus on his dance partner, who also happened to be his secret crush.

Yami looked like he was about to pout. “My whole squad prefers to obey you than me.”

“Yami, now you’re overreacting.”

“But it’s true! Every time you visit and we had a, well, half-heated discussion, those idiot brats always took your side. And they don’t even know that we’re together yet! As if it wasn’t enough that Luck is attacking me for being with you. Damn, why is he so overprotective, is not the older sibling out of you both.”

“No, he isn’t attacking you every now and then because we’re in a relationship. Luck is attacking you in repay for those ten years you couldn’t tell my feelings for you despite your Ki-reading. At least, this is what he told me.”

“Are you going to hold it against me for the rest of our damn lives?”

“No, I won’t! But Luck will, that much I can tell you. It just gives him an opportunity and an excuse to try to fight you. You know how Luck is.”

“Yeah, sadly.”

Now, Yami was definitely pouting, which made Charlotte unable anymore to hold back her giggle. For heaven’s sake, he could be such a child sometimes.

“Yami, stop making that stupid face, you aren’t five years old anymore.”

“Hey, you’re younger than me!”

“By one year, which doesn’t mean much for adults like us. And no, I won’t let you go over Nozel and Vanessa to play the overprotective father figure. Let them enjoy their dance.”

“That’s bullshit, I need to make sure that this stupid braided face is serious with one of my brats.”

“Oh, trust me, Nozel is more than serious about Vanessa. And she’s also more than serious about me, trust me.”

“Bird Braid, who has at least three sticks up his ass, and Vanessa, who can’t be serious for too long even when she’s not drunk? Serious about each other.”

“I know they are. Vanessa told me and I have honestly no reason to not believe her. So you can trust me on that.”

A beat.

Charlotte hold back a laugh as he saw on his face that Yami was finally connecting the dots.

“Vanessa told you… Hang on a minute! So ya already knew before they danced together all alone this fucking waltz or tango or whatever this is called?”

“It’s a waltz. And yes, I knew already. But to be fair, I only learned about not even a week ago. It was in Soie Velours shop, we came to try our ball gowns on the same day. And before you ask, yes, Vanessa told me a lot how she and Nozel found each other and just so you know, it was HER idea to not tell you or Nozel about it.”

“You mean, I just learned about Bird Braid and Vanessa before he learned about you and me?”

“Probably yes. And right now, Nozel is certainly too focused on Vanessa to even notice us.”

“At least something.”

“Oh, come on, don’t be so petty. And again, yes, Nozel is very serious about his relationship with Vanessa. Have you seen the diadem she’s wearing? It was a gift from him.”

“Yeah, and what’s so special about that shiny crap?”

“It has emotional worth. That diadem belonged to his mother, the late Acier Silva.”

“Shoot, are ya serious? Okay, forget what I said, I take shiny crap back. “

Charlotte smiled. At least, he was aware that Acier Silva was a very important topic for Nozel, so the present of this particular diadem to Vanessa was proof enough how serious he was.

“So, would you please do like Nozel with Vanessa and only focus on me for the rest of the waltz? I would love to enjoy fully to dance with you and not to hold you back to spoil the joy of another couple.”

Yami grumbled something, but in the end smiled at her and finally, finally they could fully enjoy their waltz.

Her boyfriend was maybe not the best or the most enthusiastic dancer, so she was mostly the one leading, but Charlotte didn’t mind. It was a wonderful feeling, to be in his arms and to turn around, forgetting everything and everyone around them.

Charlotte closed her eyes and pressed herself closer to Yami, way closer that it was supposed to be for a waltz. But she didn’t care. Her duties and her discipline were for her squad, not for her noble status and her house. Honestly, the only Roselei she truly loved was her mother. And maybe she had some affection for her cousin Josephine.

Yami hold her closer, softly and finally relaxing. It was good that he could be just calm and enjoy the moment, even during a ball like this. Charlotte smiled, while turning around with him. This was how she wanted the rest of her life to be.

But of course, the music and the waltz had to end, bringing them back to reality. And of course, Yami was getting all tense again because of seeing Nozel and Vanessa disappearing behind one of the golden pillars.

“Prickly Queen, ya sure I shouldn’t follow them, just in case.”

“Yes, I’m sure! Try to get a distraction to calm you down. And no, I don’t mean smoking any cigarettes by that or having a toilet break.”

“I don’t want to take a dump anyway and I haven’t brought any cigarettes with me.”

“William is at the buffet, choosing for a drink. How about you catch up with him? It would distract you more or less from Vanessa and Nozel and you always have good talks with him.”

“Yeah, from our days at the Grey Deers and as rivals. Good ol’ times. Ya right, I might catch up with him. Maybe even tell him we’re a thing now. I owe him a bit after all, as he gave me some hints about how there was sexual tension between us and he even got fed up about… how dense I was, I think.”

Charlotte frowned slightly. William, fed up with something? He was one of the most patient people she knew. It certainly means a lot that he ended up frustrated with Yamis density. But to be fair, this was understandable.

“So, Prickly Queen, you wanna join me and Goldie Guts or do you prefer to check on your mum and your lil’ bro first? You haven’t talked to them since the start of this trappy party.”

“You’re right, I should spend a bit time with time, it would made Luck so happy. Go to William, I will join the two of you later.”

Charlotte put a rather passionate kiss on Yamis lips before they part ways. Yami joined William at the buffet, immediately putting a drink of his choice in his hand, while Charlotte went in the other direction, searching for her mother and her little brother.

But she couldn’t find Orchidea and Luck immediately. No wonder, there were many people in this ballroom. Some she knew, others she didn’t. Some she liked or at least appreciated, others she didn’t hold close to her heart at all. And others she just felt either respect for them or just plain neutrality.

It was really a game full of individual feelings towards many people and more complex than it looked like.

Charlotte saw one of her girls, Églantine, laughing with her bastard half-sister from the Silver Eagles. Grenadine, was it? At least some people from her noble family were accepting of her. Next to Églantine, there was also one of her younger brothers, Candid, a shy but very kind boy and their great-aunt Clémentine, who was very rebellious for an Évantail and for her age.

She saw Magna Swing and Noelle Silva arguing over something, while Asta looked he tried to compromise peacefully between his two squadmates, while Nero stood next to the trio, sipping her rose syrup with a neutral face.

Charlotte had witnessed enough scenes like this to know that it wouldn’t end in a big catastrophe. More or less. At least, Luck wasn’t involved.

Still, she wondered what the four Black Bulls were arguing about. Charlotte wouldn’t be surprised if it was about the revelation about Nozel and Vanessa. Didn’t Vanessa mentioned that Noelle knew about them? Well, with that in mind, Charlotte could imagine many reasons why Magna and Noelle started to argue and why Asta had to try to go between them to mediate.

Charlotte decided to not interfere at all and to continue to search her mother and her brother. But still, Luck and Orchidea were nowhere to be find.

But she saw her aunt Rosamund again, walking firmly above the black marble floor.

Charlotte quickly look around, searching for a path to flee. She had avoided this particular aunt the best she could tonight, so that she wouldn’t find herself getting engaged to Reginald Évantail before she could even say Blue Rose.

Only that… unlike the other times she saw her, aunt Rosamund wasn’t in the company of Reginald Évantail.

Instead, she was talking to a servant. A servant wearing the attire of house Roselei.

Charlotte frowned. As far as her knowledge went, only royal servants were at service for tonight’s ball. Not servants from a noble house.

Also… she didn’t recognized that particular servant. Was he new? Did her mother engage him? She was one of the rare ones responsible for the servants within house Roselei. While aunt Rosamund always deemed herself as too precious to take care of mere servants. It was a common knowledge within house Roselei.

Then why was she talking to a servant? And why during a ball she demanded herself, along with others?

Something was fishy.

Aunt Rosamund and the servant disappeared. Charlotte couldn’t decide if it might be a good idea or not to follow them.

“Oh, Charlotte, you are here! How nice to see you.”

Charlotte jumped, but relaxed immediately as she recognized Rill, looking so dashing and adorable in his white shirt with long puffy sleeves, his silky bright blue vest with pink and green patterns and his dark blue and dark green pants. Colourful, like the artist he was.

“Hello, Rill. Do you enjoy this ball so far?”

“Oh yes, despite all traps of betrothal and such, but I wouldn’t let this spoil my fun. I think I’m going to paint a big canvas of this ball starting tomorrow. And besides, I think that after that Three Leaves Waltz, all trap plans have taken a serious hit. And just because Nozel danced with Vanessa. Oh, have seen how beautiful they were? Dancing so gracefully, like angels, looking like the perfect image of love. I shall make a painting of their dance as well, don’t you think? It’s a surprise, but amazing still. Oh, and I saw you kiss Yami behind a pillar at the start of the ball, congratulations! I’m so happy you’re finally together.”

“I… thank you,” Charlotte replied, a bit overwhelmed by Rills enthusiasm. Then again, that was just typical of Rill.

“Isn’t amazing? Six captain are happily in love and in a relationship?”

“Wait, six?”

“Of course! Kaiser is happily married for decades, it’s only a matter of days now before Fuegoleon is betrothed to Lital, Nozel and Vanessa are the image of love, you and Yami are finally together and I’m happy with my beloved Charmy.”

Charlotte blinked. It took her a few seconds to realize what her youngest colleague just said.

“You and Charmy?”

Had she missed anything?

“Yes, I finally found out who my goddess was. I was rather stupid for not realizing it sooner, but that isn’t a big deal anymore, Charmy is now my girlfriend. Now only Jack, William and Dorothy are still single.”

“But… when?”

“Oh, just a few days after our return from Spade. Wait, you don’t know? Haven’t we told you all already? I thought we did. Oh, so this is what we forgot to do? Charmy and I had the feeling we forgot something, but I never remembered what it was.”

Charlotte, still overwhelmed, was about to reply when something small and kinda white caught her eye.

Just were aunt Rosamund were standing with that unknown servant, a small piece of paper had fallen. Had it fall from her aunt or from the servant.

Charlotte immediately went to pick it up, Rill of course following her.

“Oh, what’s that?”

“I have no idea. One of my aunts had been there not even a minute ago, maybe she dropped in inadvertence.”

Still, the feeling of something being fishy didn’t left Charlotte. Instinctively, she unfolded the piece of paper.

The order of the letters didn’t make any sense to her. Still, something about it was familiar. Hadn’t she seen something similar just recently?

It looked a bit like the coded message Sol and Asta found during their last mission in the Common Realm…

A sudden uneasy feeling waved over Charlotte, as a terrible thought came to her mind. If that small piece of paper had the same code like the message from the Common Realm… And if it truly fell from her aunt… Wouldn’t that mean that Rosamund…

Charlotte couldn’t be sure, but her gut feeling, as Yami called it, told her to take action right now.

“Rill, I have a terrible suspicion. Maybe this has to do with the thievery happening in the Common Realm.”

“Wait, what?”

“I can’t tell you more, maybe I’m wrong and maybe I’m panicking over nothing. But still, we can’t be certain. Try to be as discreet as you can and find the Wizard King. Plus, try to warn at least the other captains, but again, as discreetly as you can. We can awake any suspicions from most nobles present tonight.”

“I will do that. But what about you?”

“I have to follow my guts feeling. Don’t worry about me.”

And with that, Charlotte ran towards the direction Rosamund disappeared earlier.