In the center of the Imperial capital, hundreds of candles floated like stars in the night sky within the palace's grand circular theater. The nobles and ministers watched the stage, holding even their breath. The one invited to the palace tonight was a performer more famous for his mask than his name.

The man standing on stage had his entire face covered by a beautiful mask. A long cloak with golden decorations swayed slowly under the lights, and his voice resonated softly throughout the theater.

No one had ever seen the face beneath the mask. People created countless rumors about him, but not a single person knew the truth.

Sitting on the imperial throne, Rui watched the scene with his chin resting on his hand. At first, it was simple curiosity. However, from the moment Tsukasa recited his lines and captured the audience's gaze with a single gesture, Rui's eyes could no longer leave the stage.

When the performance ended, the theater was filled with thunderous applause. Even after giving his final bow, Tsukasa quietly turned away without removing his mask. At that moment, a low, leisurely voice descended from the throne.

"Would you wait for a moment?"

The murmuring nobles fell silent all at once. Tsukasa's steps halted. Rui slowly rose from his seat and smiled down at the stage.

"I was deeply impressed by your performance. So..."

"May I look forward to seeing the face behind that mask someday?"