What Universe is This Again?

XXIII

"Hm." He chuckled, reaching out his hand and holding it like it was the most normal thing to do. "You're holding my hand and your brother is my bullying partner. He asked the same thing but his wording was dude. Of course, I'm a man with kids."

Yhan snorted. Both Claude and Yhan chuckled lightly.

"You look like you'll be cold."

Yhan snorted even more.

"And you look so handsome today, Daddy!"

Claude was staring at her while caressing the back of her hand. "You looked very pretty today, Athanasia."

She couldn't help but smile as she squeezed his hand back.

"Thank you, Daddy."

.

.

"Then, I'll be entering first," Yhan said as if he were out there to work out. He's stretching his arms since they're stiff but it's enough that he's not even looking at the nobles right now. "Sister, save the second dance for me."

"I thought you didn't want to."

"I just don't want to be the center of attraction." Yhan boasted, "I'm far too handsome to be a partner for an ugly girl like you."

"You really are annoying."

Claude just watched them bicker like there was no tomorrow. Yhan let out a breath and smiled at the Grand Chamberlain as he announced his name.

"Make way for His Highness, Prince Ayhan de Alger Obelie!"

Yhan entered as if he owned the place. Well, he doesn't really like being called a prince at all.

That's when nervousness hits her.

"How can he act like he's not nervous?" she whispered.

"He's used to this. It's worse in the Senate." Claude replied and hummed, satisfied with how Yhan brought himself into the Hall.

"Make way for His Majesty, Emperor Claude de Alger Obelia! and Her Highness, Princess Athanasia de Alger Obelia!"

The doors to the grand hall opened once more.

Athanasia flinches when she feels the daggers pointing at her. She couldn't help but back away with hesitation. She has never stood in front of this many people before.

Claude looks at her and notices her hesitation.

"What's the matter?"

Everyone remained silent. She noticed Yhan looking at her as well.

But as she got closer to Claude, an overwhelming aura descended on the entire hall as Claude looked down on them.

The nobles flinched and bowed their heads slowly. Yhan was the only one who stood calmly at the podium.

This Aura must be associated with Claude.

"I can make them keep their heads down like that until the ceremony is over if you want."

"N, no..." She protested.

"I did not think you were the type to get worked up about such trivial matters," Claude said monotonously. "Considering how you used to rip my hair out and hit my face when you were little, dancing in front of a crowd should not be too difficult."

I really should've danced with Felix or Yhan! But she can't back down now!

"N, n, n, no way... I do not remember doing such things, such jokes..."