Not long after, the music swelled—violins and lutes weaving a melody that filled the gilded hall. The polished marble floor soon came alive with movement as nobles swept into dance, gowns flaring and jewels flashing beneath the chandeliers.
Laughter rippled through the air, the clinking of glasses and polite conversation blending into the rhythm of the night.
Florian tried to keep pace, moving beside Heinz as they wove through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries with Concordia's nobles.
His posture was straight, his smile practiced, though his mind remained scattered. He mirrored Heinz's words, bowed when expected, smiled when appropriate. 'Just follow his lead, Florian. Don't think too much. Don't slip.'
But Heinz, as always, wasn't behaving his best.
"You look absolutely divine today, Your Highness," came a voice like a purr.
