Chapter 97: Chapter 97

Surprisingly, Mary and the Lancia's knight's aren't arrived yet. But, it doesn't mean that Cecilia can't be shine.

Lancia's household maids have extraordinary skill to make her look stunning for today's event.

Wearing long simple dark blue evening gown and white pointed high heels. A set of white pearl jewelry was on her ear and neck, make her look classy and elegant.

She only uses light natural make up that suitable on her age.

Cecilia was the one who asked them to make her hairdo as simple as possible. That's why, the maids didn't do anything to her black hair except brush it before put one small hair clip made from pearl on the left side of her head. Of course, she wore the corsage bracelet on her right wrist.

However, she can't help but nervous. After all, this is her first time to attend such a formal banquet in the palace.

"You look good today, My Daughter." Duke Lancia said when they meet in the living room.

Armano, wear a formal military suit in the same color with his daughter. His hair combed to the back. Showing his beautiful forehead. Duke Lancia looks ten years younger than his original age.

Cecilia smiled when she notices that his father wearing the cuff link which she bought at the mask festival. Both of his hands wear a white glove, too.

"I'm glad you wear it, Father. Anyway, you look a hundred times cooler than before."

Armano pat her head gently before offering his right arm to her, "These cuff links was your first gift. All I can do is treasure this. Then, shall we go now? Or, did you need something?"

Cecilia grabbed his hand and shook her head. They're walking to the luxurious white carriage which have Lancia's symbol in each door.

"Be careful on your step." Armano said when he helps his daughter to enter the vehicle.

Not long after Cecilia take a seat, he enters the vehicle and sit, facing to each other.

The carriage walking slowly and Cecilia let out a heavy sigh.

"Nervous?"

"Kind of. I'm afraid I'll make a mistake."

"Don't worry. You will be okay."

Suddenly, Cecilia smile shyly, "Father, I heard something about the first dance and stuff. They said that the first dance is for the most special person in this world. That's why, can you... dance with me? I'm not a good dancer, but, I will try to not stepped on your feet."

Armano stuned while his eyes became as widen as saucer, "What?"

Looking at his reaction, make her starting to panicked, "Ah, I know that it's a ridiculous request.  I didn't mean to offend you. But, without your grace, perhaps I can't be here and I, I think... No, no. I mean, I owed you for giving a blissfull life like this."

"Cecilia, you were wrong." Armano said after he let out a heavy sigh. Rather than being offended, he became grateful.

After the meeting on the Ligaya Island, he became disapointed on himself for failed became a good father.

And, Cecilia's words make him feeling at ease.

"Dancing with an old man like me must be such a boring activity. After all, you must be want to dance with that masked brat, right?"

"Well, Max know about this. He agreed when I want to give you the first dance, Father. Beside, he said that you are... well, his future father-in-law."

"Haaa, that smooth-talking-brat. Anyway, after the first dance, the Emperor want to announce something. I want you to leave with Maxwell before it happen."

Cecilia knit her eyebrow, "Is this something wrong, Father?"

Armano closed his eyes and pondering if he should tell her the truth or not.

"Father, are you sleeping?" Cecilia asked confused because his father didn't open his eyes after several minutes has passed.

Armano opening his eyes and said,"Cecilia, there's something I want you to know."

Then, he told her the whole story from the election to the assassination and the Emperor's plan to expose the truth in front of the whole citizen.

Cecilia's eyes widen, and her jaw dropped while listening to that news.

For her, it's like a scene from a historical drama. Never crossed in her mind that she will be witnessing something gruesome like that.

"Then, what will happen to them, Father?"

Armano crossed his arms. Somehow, he looks dissatisfied with something, "Exiled to faraway island. The Emperor thought that it's a better punishment than death penalty. For him, there are so many things that worse than death."

Cecilia threw her gaze and found that so many people gathering on the street and seem like they were enjoying themselves, "I agree."

Ten minutes later, they're reaching on the entrance of the palace. Armano help her to stepped down from the carriage.

Then, the guards then announce their arrival to the guests. Cecilia felt that everyone was watching at her when she enters the palace.

But, her mind was distracted to the scenery in front of her eyes.

"Beautiful." She whispered when saw a huge and luxurious chandelier above her head.

It's the biggest room she ever saw. Perhaps it has same size with the sport stadium.

Almost a hundred people gathering in this place, but it still has enough room for a hundred more.

There is a red fluffy carpet which covering on white marble floor. The tables which served several foods and beverages was arranged neatly.

Not to mention, all the guests were look like an important person. All of them has a fierce charisma which make Cecilia feel intimidated.

The orchestras were gathering on the corner of the room. She found that the music has relaxing effect.

Beside the musician, there was small steps that lead to two big red chairs. A large red tapestry with golden string of Atrazal's symbol hanged on the wall behind the chair.

She has a feeling that it was for the Emperor and the Empress.

A young female maid who bring a silver tray of several glasses of champagne, interrupted her train of thought, "Good evening, Young Miss. What do you want to drink?"

Before she can answer, Armano said in a demanding voice, "No need. Thank you."

The maid nodded before she bowed and left them.

"You are too young for alcohol, Young Lady. Let's go to the table and find yourself a refreshing fruit punch."

DUNG! DUNG!

A voice of the drum, make everyone stun on their place.

"His Majesty has arrived at the palace. Along with His Highness Crown Prince and His Highness Second Prince."

Suddenly, all the people bowed when the three men enter the room.

Cecilia stole a glance when bowed and her cheeks blushed after catch a glimpse of Max.

She doesn't know if it because his outfit or anything, but he looks different.

His unmasked face, already beautiful enough to make her fall for him. Wearing a white military suit and white trousers, made his figure look taller and slender.

More importantly, he wore the boutonniere, which has the same flower with her corsage which she wore right now.

"Thank you for coming to this banquet. Now, please, raised your head and enjoy this event." A calm voice can be heard.

Everyone in the room then standing in their own and start making a line to directly congratulate the Emperor and bring a gift, too.

Cecilia didn't even bother to looking at the ruler of this Empire or the crown prince.

All of her attention was drawn to Maxwell, who smiled and looking back at her.

They already met yesterday, but the time feel longer lately and she became missed him so badly.

Armano realized this and gently take her arms. Ruining her imagination, "Watch your step, Cecilia. And please tell that brat to not looking at you like a hungry wolf. Remember, every man in this world, except me, are wolves. Be careful."

"Father, Max isn't like that. He is a good man. Anyway, I think we are the one who didn't bring the gift."

The line was getting shorter and they're getting closer to the emperor. Only five people to go, but Armano look calm,

"Do not worry. I already prepare the most spectacular present. Please look forward to it." Suddenly, she got a bad feeling when saw his mysterious smirk.