The music eased into its final measures.
Napoleon II guided Elisabeth through the last turn and brought her to a smooth halt. Applause followed.
He released her hand.
"Thank you," he said. "You dance well."
"So do you," Elisabeth replied. There was no flattery in it. Just observation.
They stepped aside from the floor together, making room for the next pair. Conversation flowed back in around them, softer at first, then growing as the moment passed.
That was when Armand approached.
He did not interrupt immediately. He waited for a natural pause, then inclined his head.
"Your Imperial Highness," he said. "Princess Elisabeth."
Elisabeth returned the gesture. Napoleon II raised an eyebrow slightly.
"Yes?" he said.
"His Majesty wishes to see the both of you," Armand replied. "In private."
Napoleon II glanced at Elisabeth, then back to Armand.
"Now?" he asked.
Armand's expression didn't change. "If it were not important, I would not be here."
