The Phantom Thief and The Princess

"Princess Seraphina, Your presence here has made this event even more special." Darlton greeted, attempting to engage in conversation.

"You’re welcome, Mr. Armstrong." Princess Seraphina replied graciously.

After shaking hands with Princess Seraphina and Dalton T. Armstrong and posing for the media, they were escorted backstage by the security team.

On the backstage, Darlton couldn't help but notice the necklace Princess Seraphina was wearing—the Moon's Tears necklace, a priceless gem that symbolized the Lunar Empire's sovereignty.

"I apologize if I may be impolite, but is the necklace you're wearing the genuine Moon's Tears necklace?" Darlton inquired further.

"Of course, Mr. Armstrong," Princess Seraphina replied.

"I see... Would it be possible for you to keep it in a safe place during this event? Just as a precaution," Darlton suggested.

With a gentle smile, Princess Seraphina responded, "I cannot do that, Mr. Armstrong. This gem is a part of me and embodies the symbol of the Lunar Empire. It gives me strength and connects me to my heritage. Besides, I trust in the security measures provided by the U.G.F. and my loyal protector, Sir Panache."

"Of course, Princess Seraphina. You can rely on my grandson here, Alfred." Darlton reassured her.

"He has meticulously planned the security measures in the City Hall. The phantom thief L.L. will fall into the trap," Darlton explained.

Upon hearing Darlton's response, Princess Seraphina smiled.

Although the tension in the room began to dissipate, Alfred was the only one who maintained a focused expression.

"What about you, Sir Alfred? I heard you have been pursuing L.L. for the past two years," Princess Seraphina inquired.

"That's correct, Princess Seraphina. Officially, I am part of the L.L. investigation team for two years. However, I have been observing their movements since four years ago when they first started their actions," Alfred replied.

"Oh wow... So they...? It seems our cunning thief is not working alone. You must have gathered a lot of clues about their identity—gender, age, shoe size, favorite food?" Princess Seraphina tried to extract information.

"Your Highness, please curb your enthusiasm for a thief," Panache responded.

"With your permission, I will present their hand before you, so they won't be able to steal anymore," Panache added.

"Hahaha... It appears that among all of us, my closest friend is the most nervous. You are too adorable, Panache," Princess Seraphina laughed, trying to alleviate the tension.

"Please refrain from calling me adorable, Your Highness. I am your protector," Panache replied, attempting to contain his embarrassment.

"Of course... You are my best friend, my guardian, and the embodiment of my hand. You are the person I trust the most, Panache," Princess Seraphina expressed.

"Thank you for your praise, a Your Highness," Panache replied.

Darlton and Alfred could only smile as they observed the lively conversation between the princess and her loyal knight.

"Thank you, Mr. Alfred T. Armstrong. I am truly grateful that you agreed to my request," Princess Seraphina said with sincerity in her voice.

"It's my pleasure, Your Highness. I take responsibility for my own shortcomings in not being able to apprehend criminals like L.L., which has allowed them to continue their activities," Alfred replied, feeling a sense of duty.

Instead of making any further remarks, Princess Seraphina simply smiled, appreciating Alfred's genuine response.

"Um, is something on your mind?" Alfred asked, sensing a hint of contemplation in the princess's expression.

"No, it's nothing. I just wish there were more upstanding citizens like you, Mr. Armstrong so that our communities could thrive," Seraphina answered, her words carrying a touch of hope.

"Thank you for your kind words, Your Highness," Alfred replied humbly, feeling a sense of responsibility to live up to the princess's expectations.

As the event continued, now the atmosphere inside City Hall was filled with laughter and joy. Distinguished guests and diplomats mingled, strengthening the bonds of friendship between the United Galactic Federation and the Lunar Galactic Empire.

Alfred and Panache remained vigilant, their watchful eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of suspicious activity. They were fully aware that L.L. could take advantage of this occasion to strike, and they were determined to thwart any potential threats.

Princess Seraphina moved gracefully among the guests, engaging in conversations and radiating her regal charm. She was the epitome of grace and poise, and everyone around her was captivated by her presence.

As the night progressed, the dinner was followed by a mesmerizing display of intergalactic arts and cultural performances.

Dancers, musicians, and artists from various planets showcased their talents, creating a magical ambiance that transcended cultural boundaries.

At their special VVIP table, the four of them sat and enjoyed the performances. Looking around, they noticed their expressions were too tense, so Princess Seraphina decided to lighten the mood.

"I wish I could fly like a bird. We don't have such creatures on my home planet," she remarked.

Instantly, the others were taken aback and couldn't respond except for Alfred.

"In that case, I suggest you take a look at the most beautiful and colorful bird from Earth, the peacock," Alfred suggested.

"But not all birds can fly, even if they have wings," Dalton tried to participate in the conversation.

Quickly, Alfred used the terminal on his arm to display several bird images.

"Wow... there are so many bird species on Earth. There are large birds, small birds, and brilliantly colored birds," Seraphina exclaimed as she looked at the augmented images floating before her.

"Beautiful..." Panache commented.

"This is how they look when they soar through Earth's skies. As my grandfather said, most birds can fly, but some species are flightless," Alfred explained, showing an image of a penguin.

"Flightless birds?" Seraphina was surprised.

"They are called penguins. Instead of flying, they swim," Dalton tried to join the conversation again.

"They swim???" Panache was even more surprised.

Seeing Princess Seraphina's sad expression, Alfred tried to guess if she felt pity for the birds that couldn't fly.

"However, their inability to fly does not trouble them in the least. I believe the truly pitiable birds are those that can fly but are confined to cages," Dalton added.

"Why would anyone confine them?" Princess Seraphina asked.

"Because... they are so very beautiful," Alfred answered.