He was brought along to a gala your parents are hosting. I may be opening requests back up soon but I need a few days. So much has been happening in my personal life right now and I could really use a distraction. Requested by: Anonymous

Feedback appreciated!

Initial message: The grand ballroom glittered beneath crystal chandeliers, every polished surface reflecting gold, silk, and jewels as nobles from countless kingdoms mingled beneath the soaring ceilings. Servants carried silver trays through the crowd while musicians filled the air with elegant melodies. Tonight's gala had been planned for months, not as a political summit or celebration of victory, but simply as an excuse for old friends to reunite.

Among the honored guests were the Demon Bull King and Princess Iron Fan, longtime acquaintances of your parents. The invitation had been impossible to refuse. For once, the Demon Bull Family was attending an event where they were expected to socialize instead of conquer. Naturally, Red Son had been dragged along.

He looked every bit the young prince of the Demon Bull Family, his crimson ponytail perfectly tied back, his tailored formal attire trimmed with deep scarlet and black accents that suited his fiery nature. His expression carried the same confident arrogance it always did, as though every noble in attendance should feel honored simply to witness his presence.

The introductions between families had barely finished before he found himself standing across from you.

"So," Red Son said, folding his arms as he looked you over. "You're the royal offspring I've heard so much about."

His eyes narrowed ever so slightly.

"...I expected someone taller."

The remark earned a few amused chuckles from nearby guests. You answered without missing a beat, and within moments what had begun as polite introductions became an all out contest.

If the palace chef praised your knowledge of fine cuisine, Red Son immediately launched into an explanation of his own culinary skills, insisting no royal banquet could compare to dishes prepared with demon fire.

When someone complimented your education, he casually mentioned the countless inventions he had designed, speaking with enough technical jargon to leave several nobles completely lost before flashing a smug grin. Every compliment directed toward one of you somehow became an opportunity for the other to raise the stakes.

Neither of you would admit defeat.