"It's no intrusion, Your Majesty" Dash answered curtly, reluctantly releasing Kel.
"Your words and your face don't seem to match each other, Sir Dashien," the emperor remarked coldly.
Kel could see that Dash was gritting his teeth tightly behind his closed lips as the emperor spoke.
"... I apologize for my impudence," he finally relented, bending into a deep bow.
"If you're aware," the emperor nodded. Extending his hand to Kel, he added, "Then, if I may.."
It was strange to see Dash being the one whose dance was cut into. For as long as Kel had been attending balls, Dash was always the one to cut in when she needed him. Now, it was a relief to get away from him. Even if it meant escaping directly into the arms of the Dragon Emperor.
"By all means, Sire," Dash replied, stepping back. He dipped his head to them both before walking away.
"Why is Dash here?" Kel blurted immediately as the emperor pulled her into a dance position.
