Vivienne's POV

The palace corridors whispered with the gentle rustle of silk as Seraphina Nocturna and Vivienne Sterling strolled toward the grand chamber where Empress Lysandra awaited. Vivienne, a mix of hope and apprehension, delicately clutched the edges of her gown, torn between yearning for the Empress's support in her relationship with Serge and contemplating the kind of persuasion that might be required. Walking in step, Seraphina wore a mask of camaraderie. Suddenly, she turned to Vivienne.

"What happened?" Vivienne inquired. Seraphina replied, "Oh, nothing. It just felt like someone was watching us. Probably the guards."

"Well, it must be. How often do they witness two of the most beautiful young ladies in the empire out here taking a walk?"

"You're probably right. Let's get going," Seraphina suggested.

As they approached the opulent doors leading to the Empress's chamber, the air grew thick with anticipation. Guards stationed at the entrance exchanged knowing glances, hinting at the machinations transpiring within the walls. Little did they know that, unbeknownst to them there was a mysterious figure hiding in plain sight monitoring them as they entered the chambers.

Behind her unfolded fan, the Empress grinned as she greeted Vivienne, "Welcome, child. I brought you here because I thought you might have experienced difficult emotions with what transpired in the academy."

"Thank you for your kind words, Your Highness. It is a great privilege to meet you, let alone shed light on the whole saga I was forced into," replied Vivienne, expressing her willingness to cooperate with Empress Lysandra.

"No need to be so formal, dear. Just let me know what happened, and I will do what I can as the Empress of this nation to ensure you aren't forced by anyone ever again," reassured Lysandra. Unnoticed by Vivienne and the Empress, Seraphina rolled her eyes.

Feeling overjoyed at the potential support, Vivienne began blurting out the whole ordeal without even trying to hide her inner thoughts. Seraphina couldn't help but keep her eyes wide open as she heard Vivienne's story.

"It all started about 20 months ago, Your Highness. From a young age, I wondered why my parents insisted on arranging my engagement to Luke. When I questioned Luke, he told me that my parents wanted to forge ties with the dukedom of DeMontfort to ensure the next generation of the Sterling family would be stronger. I understand my parents' wish, but how could they try to marry me off to a brute like Luke? He couldn't even identify whether I wore the latest fashion during our outings. Moreover, not only did he dismiss my sense of style, but he also paraded around in those outdated clothes like a living anachronism. Once, he even had the audacity to gift me a dress that had gone out of fashion the week prior."

"It must have been quite a challenge for you to maintain your composure and aura with such a character," empathized the Empress, attempting to console Vivienne.

"Indeed, Your Highness. Earlier, I merely had to feign a smile during our outings. But upon entering the academy, matters took a turn for the worse. I comprehend that, as the duke's heir, he was groomed extensively, but he flaunted his knowledge without considering the impression it left. He failed to grasp that, to others, I appeared as a fool who lacked understanding when he sought tutors for economics, trade, and foreign relations. It was only upon encountering Her Highness Princess Seraphina and the charismatic heir of Flakenberg, Serge, that I realized the extent of Luke's bookish nature. Now, Luke presumes to advise me on avoiding public appearances with Serge and attempts to limit our quality time. The breaking point came when he questioned my relationship with Serge. I had to placate him while concealing my true feelings, not realizing the difficulty I faced to secure the duel. What kind of man subjects me to a closed-room trial, letting rumors flourish?" Vivienne blurted, catching her breath before continuing, "Now that Serge has triumphed over Luke, convincing my parents to accept Serge should be straightforward, considering all they desire is a robust heir," hoping the Empress would overlook her slip of inner thoughts. Seraphina's face paled momentarily before she composed herself, eagerly awaiting her mother's response.

To Vivienne's delight, the Empress replied, "That is dreadful—an appalling character indeed. I shall spread rumors of Luke as nothing more than a pampered brat lacking honor, abusing his fiancée. You, saved by the heroic Serge in your darkest hour. I'll also press the Emperor to ensure the annulment of your engagement with Luke. Take this ring. It shall grant you support from my loyal followers, allowing us to meet in private. Keep it safe, show it to no one, and keep me informed of your progress. If any issues arise with your engagement to Serge, I'll do everything in my power to assist you," voicing her unwavering support for Vivienne.

Ecstatic, Vivienne thanked the Empress for the ring and the pledged support as they exited the Empress's chamber. She couldn't wait for her family's return. Little did she know that tomorrow, Bartholomew Sterling would receive a letter from Aurelia Vespera, throwing a wrench into the Empress's plans and placing a significant obstacle in her dreams.