The grand orchestra began playing shortly after ten o'clock, filling the spacious hall with rich melody. A graceful waltz drifted effortlessly through the Imperial Heritage ballroom as formal couples gradually moved toward the polished marble floor.
Sylvaniah remained standing near one of the towering arched windows, quietly watching the swirling movement of dancers. She had survived the demanding evening surprisingly well, navigating high-society expectations with natural elegance.
Representing House Dreraye at such a prestigious gathering had proved far easier than she had originally anticipated. Then, a deep, familiar voice spoke softly from directly behind her shoulder.
"Are you planning to spend the entire evening hiding in the shadows and avoiding the dance floor?"
Sylvaniah froze in place, her heart taking an unexpected leap against her ribs. She turned slowly, her heels clicking against the marble floor as she faced the speaker.
