Sophia Ariel, who had not even had a debutante ball by the age of twenty in her poor frontier territory, is finally invited to one by her estranged aunt. ... more>>

However, nothing in this world comes for free. For this one debutante ball, Sophia ends up paying an unexpected price.

Rather than feeling discouraged, Sophia sharpens her gaze, focusing on what she can gain.

A story of Sophia Ariel—timid yet bold, shy yet clever.

***

After finishing her thoughts, Sophia opened her mouth.

“Hmm, so… if I get engaged and then break it off with Your Highness, what will I gain from it?”

At the moment Sophia spoke of negotiation rather than rejection, Prince Robert's face brightened.

“For starters, I’ll give you fifty gold coins every month for as long as the engagement lasts. I'll also cover all the costs of maintaining your dignity as my fiancée. You’ll get to keep all the dresses and accessories as your own. How does that sound?”

With a smile, Sophia responded,

“During the engagement period, I would also like the emperor to grant the title of Marquis to my family. Additionally, I need full military support from Umbriel for Ariel.”

Prince Robert looked at Sophia with an impressed gaze and said,

“Very well. Shall we consider the contract sealed?”

“No. Let’s make it one hundred gold coins a month. After six months, it increases by ten, and again by ten after another six months.”

“Lady Sophia Ariel. I understand that I’m asking this favor because of my circumstances, but I don't think your worth is quite that high.”

“That way, the engagement will be shorter. If it drags on, it will undoubtedly be due to Your Highness’s circumstances. I need to be compensated for that. So, you’ll want to hasten the process of granting the marquessate title. If you want a quick breakup, that is. Do you wish for a prolonged fake engagement?”

“No, we should keep it brief. Anything else?”

“This is it for me. How about you, Your Highness?”

“Lady Ariel will need to come to the capital. You’ll have to comply when I ask for your cooperation and participate in various events whenever requested.”

“It sounds like a good experience. I’ve only ever seen the palace from afar, so getting to enter it sounds like it will make for fond memories.”

“There are excellent gardens and greenhouses there. They're something to boast about. I’m sure you’ll be pleased. I’ll send you the contract in writing, and once you’ve reviewed it, please return it with your seal.” <<less

In the majestic heart of a sprawling empire, the story of Emperor Leonhardt and Empress Elizabeth Isolde von Elysium unfolds. When tragedy strikes and the beloved—by all but one—Empress perishes, Leonhardt discovers a diary that reveals her silent struggles and undying love for him. Overwhelmed with remorse, he seeks out the mystical Witch of the Clock Tower to turn back the sands of time.... more>>

Awakening in the innocence of his youth, Leonhardt once again meets his future bride, Elizabeth, and he’s determined to treat her right. With the weight of past memories on his shoulders, he aims to foster a bond built on genuine understanding and love. Yet, Elizabeth’s past is fraught with dark family secrets and pressures that threaten to break her spirit. As the empire watches, Leonhardt and Elizabeth must navigate their love amidst a backdrop of treachery and the heavy burden of past mistakes. <<less