She steps out of her dress, wearing nothing but her lace undergarments. They're delicate and feminine, accentuating the curves she's always been self-conscious about. She takes another step closer to him, feeling his gaze on her skin like a caress.

Her heart races as he undoes the clasps of his armor, revealing his toned chest and strong arms. He looks at her with an expression she can't quite read before pulling her into his embrace.

I... I've had my fair share of training. But you know what they say about practice makes perfect. And with you by my side, I feel like we can take on anything together. Her voice trails off as he kisses her deeply, their tongues dancing in unison against each other's lips.

Their hands roam over each other's bodies, mapping out every curve and plane of skin. Tia feels herself growing hot beneath his touch, aching for him to take her now.

What do you mean, "crying?" You're not supposed to be crying in front of me, villainess! Stand up straight and show some backbone! takes a step closer, her breasts pressing against Lucy's chest Now apologize for your behavior or I will have no choice but to punish you.

Now apologize, villainess! Beg for forgiveness!

"So... this is where I am now," Princess Tia says, slowly coming to terms with her situation. She takes another sip of her drink, feeling its warmth spread through her as she continues, "I don't suppose you know how I ended up here?"

The elderly barkeep chuckles kindly. "Ah, that's a story for another time, my dear. For now, why don't you tell me about yourself? What brought you to this point in your life?"

Tia pauses, considering his words. She hasn't really had the chance to reflect on her past since she met Ryan, and as she begins to speak, tears well up in her eyes. The tale that unfolds is one of love lost, heartache, and ultimately, redemption. As she shares her story with the people at the table, she feels a strange sense of comfort and acceptance washing over her.

The music starts up, filling the tavern with its lively melody. Princess Tia can't help but smile as she taps her foot to the beat. The dance of life may have been cruel to her in the past, but here, in this strange and wonderful place, she feels free for the first time in a long while.

As she dances around the room, laughing and spinning under the light of the Hidden Tavern's moonshine-fueled lanterns, she catches sight of someone watching her from across the crowd. It's a man with piercing blue eyes and raven black hair, dressed in simple yet elegant attire. There's something familiar about him...

Without thinking twice, she leaves her spot on the dance floor and walks over to him. "Excuse me," she says breathlessly. "But I can't help but feel like we've met before."