Chapter: 1010

Fortunately, both looked very excited to attend the ball.

Astelle is looking forward to the ball day with great anticipation.

***

The masquerade was held late in the afternoon in the central garden of the imperial palace, as was customary.

Originally, it was held at the beginning of summer, but this time it was held at the end of summer because of the imperial family’s vacation.

The ball, held outdoors in the evening, created a special atmosphere.

Beautiful lanterns hung on the trees and flower beds in the large terrace and garden as well as in the ballroom.

The small glass lanterns that filled the garden created an elegant and romantic atmosphere.

Small desserts and cold wine were prepared everywhere.

All of the invited nobles seemed to be satisfied and impressed by the masquerade ball that had been held for the first time in a while.

However, Astelle was not satisfied.

“……I apologize, Your Majesty.”

Hannah couldn’t attend because she had a bad summer cold.

It was the same with Naen.

“I went out with Hannah, and I must have caught a cold then.”

Apparently, the two had gone out of the palace to buy dresses. Then they seemed to catch a cold together at that time.

Although it’s not time for young Naen to find a marriage partner, Astelle wanted her to have fun and make friends at the ball.

But Hannah was old enough to get married. So this was a very regrettable thing for Astelle.

There was another thing that was disappointing.

“What about Fritz?”

The attendant who had gone to the outer palace shook his head with an apologetic look.

“I apologize, Your Majesty. No one knows where the Duke is.”

“…….”

Fritz was nowhere to be found since the ball started. 

‘He said he’d attend.’