Ian washed his face several times then sat on the bed. He supposed his stress must be serious if he was dreaming of memories from long ago.

She used to be so smart and cute when I was young

Of course Louise Sweeney was still smart and cute now. But now the appeal changed subtly. He didnt know how to say it

He used to laugh about it before, but now his hands were getting restless. He had a hard time resolving things only through words.

Come to think of it, maybe it was Ian that changed, not Louise. That was probably right. After a long sigh, he picked up a card that he carelessly tossed to the floor. It was delivered from the palace yesterday and was decorated with a golden border and bore a message in neat script. Maybe this was why he had the dream.

How old are you now? I want you to come home for your birthday.

Of course, the crown princes birthday was a holiday (although not an official one) that should not be passed lightly. Still, someone receiving a card that said Come home for your birthday on their adult birthday would make anyone feel uncomfortable.

And its exam period too.

He briefly recalled his crude plan to skip the party under the excuse of having exams. However, as fate would have it, his exams would be completed just before the party.

Justno excuse.

He had no choice but to go. He would try to be happy about this.

After sitting up, Ian immediately left his dorm room with the card in hand. He didnt like it, but he would have to inform the dean.

*

*

*

Thats why I was chosen?

In the student council room, Louise fixed Ian with a suspicious eye.

Yes, youre a great student, and you have enough qualifications to be a student representative.

Why would a student representative go to the presidents birthday celebration?

I told you. I am president of the student council, but I cannot assist the dean, so youll be his assistant as a temporary representative.

Something still didnt seem right. Louise continued to look suspicious. The Academy was full of students from aristocratic families who were more accustomed to these lavish affairs. Why would he choose Louise, a commoner, and send her to Ians birthday celebration?

Im in trouble anyway. I have an exam on the day of the party.

Dont worry, the banquet is in the evening. And I will prepare a room where you can spend a cool summers night away from the heat.

Im staying overnight?

Thats because the birthday celebration for the crown prince wont be over till dawn.

Louise made a face.

There must be a debauched crown prince in this country.

Dont worry. You dont have to prepare for anything. All you have to do is come and have fun.

But Ive never been to a banquet before.

If Louise made a mistake as a student representative, it would disgrace the Academys reputation.

Dont worry. Your dance teacher said he taught you perfectly.

But youre my dance teacher.

Thats even more reliable, dont you think?

Louise worried expression didnt fade away, so Ian lightly took Louises hand. According to their agreement, her hand was approved territory for Ian. He drew Louises hand towards him and spoke with a crestfallen expression on his face.

Areare you sure youre not coming to my party?

Ugh.

Where in the world did he learn to look so cute?

Its your friends birthday. Simon wont come. Im the only one.

Simon didnt like to go where the nobles gathered. Apparently, making friends would be misunderstood as gathering a support base for himself to claim the throne.

W-well, of course I want to congratulate my friend.

In person?

Yes, in person.

Excellent answer. Then, what shall we have as the birthday cake? Maybe bittersweet chocolate with a thick texture.

I dont think it would go well as the crown princes birthday cake.

Why not? They all wont eat it anyway.

He showed off a smile that made him look like the boy from long ago.

It would be nice if you came. We can dance together until dawn. We can eat cake, too.

To be clear, were going to be eating bitter, sticky chocolate cake together.

Thats right, itll be so sticky that itll stick to the corners of your mouth.

It was quite interesting to think of that as a post-examination reward. Besides, she wasnt really interested in the royal banquet itself anyway.

Is Sir Hesse coming?

Hesse? Of course hell come. Why?

I just thought it would be reassuring to have Sir Hesse with me.

Im glad theres at least one person I know there. Right?

Ian had a troubled look on his face for a moment.

Thats right. Hesses will be there but

But?

Uhumaccording to the security plan Hesse will be quietly hiding in a corner out of sight. You cant just go up to him and talk to him.

But I

It is his duty and honor to protect me from all danger.

Well, I dont think I wont have a chance to talk to Sir Hesse. Who came up with the security plan?

Ian shook his head regretfully, holding his hand near his heart.

Well, I dont know who planned the security. Hesse is the knight closest to me.

Tak.

A little stone flew in from the distance and hit the window.