320 The Tests Have Ended!

On the opposite side, Desmond responded with a serene smile, his eyes carefully studying Elizabeth's every move. A sense of curiosity stirred within him, prompting him to voice his query. "Miss Elizabeth, may I pose a question?" he inquired, his voice laced with a touch of intrigue.

Elizabeth, her elegant demeanor intact, shook her head gracefully, causing Desmond's brows to furrow. There was an unmistakable barrier between them, an unseen wall that separated them even before their imminent clash. The realization struck him with newfound clarity.

As the crowd witnessed Desmond's failure to salute or acknowledge their princess, a tide of fury surged through them. Murmurs spread like wildfire, particularly among the senior attendees, though Alice's fierce glare silenced any further dissent.