Kairen is a young lieutenant of the Imperial Guard, the son of a simple merchant who earned his position on his own and has always valued his honor. Once he turned down Count Ormond's daughter, and soon afterwards a shameful rumor spread through the capital, costing him the respect of his fellow officers and a promised promotion. He is certain that she was the one who started it, but he has no proof. Now he treats her coldly and politely, and behind his calm mockery hides real anger.