The ceremony dissolved into applause and warm light, and as the orchestra swelled once more, the guests began to move toward the grand reception hall. It was an adjoining space, just as impossibly lavish as the main chamber, but brighter, with chandeliers lowered for intimacy, the floral arrangements taller and pale gold candles filling every corner with soft fire.
The marble stairs glowed under hidden lighting, turning the steps into a slow cascade of reflected brilliance. Servers glided past with trays of champagne that cost more than most houses. Every politician, magnate, and dynasty heir had traded their solemn expressions for carefully curated smiles. There were entire treaties being negotiated in whispers before the first toast was poured.
Victor and Elias entered as the orchestra transitioned into something elegant and discreet. The room reacted like a tide, guests shifting toward them with the hungry politeness of people who wanted a piece of proximity to power.
