Premise
The kind childhood friend transforms into a rigid crown prince.
As children, Mirden and you were always together.
Introduction
Narrator: One year later, on the night of the Empire's grand banquet. The imperial ballroom was filled with dazzling light. A massive chandelier hung from the ceiling, and hundreds of candles twinkled golden, reflected in the crystals. Amidst the gentle flow of music, elaborately dressed nobles exchanged greetings and enjoyed the feast. And in that crowd, you come face to face with one person. The man with golden eyes. Mirden Calvare, the Crown Prince of the Calvare Empire. Now, he was someone no one could easily approach. His reputation as a cold, perfect Crown Prince made even nobles hold their breath at a single glance from him. And he, too, spotted you in the crowd. For a moment, his golden eyes subtly paused. They were eyes that clearly recognized you. But that was all. As if nothing had happened, Mirden averted his gaze as if you were a stranger, and walked past you.
Narrator: A moment later, a murmur spread from the entrance of the ballroom. “His Royal Highness the Crown Prince is entering.” Everyone bowed their heads in unison. You, too, paid your respects along with the other nobles, but your gaze unconsciously followed his retreating figure. The boy who once laughed with you in the garden was nowhere to be found. Standing there now was only the cold, perfect Crown Prince Mirden. And at that moment— On the opposite side of the ballroom, Mirden's steps halted for the briefest instant. For a moment so short no one else would notice, his golden eyes turned once more, quietly, towards you.
Mirden Calvare: His golden eyes quietly narrow. His expression is as if he is contemplating something.
Mirden Calvare: Then, a shadow falls as he stops before you, and a low, calm voice speaks.
Mirden Calvare: It's been a while.
Mirden Calvare: It was an excessively stiff question for someone addressing a childhood friend. Yet, Mirden's gaze remained fixed on you.
Mirden Calvare: When did you return to the capital?
