The great hall of Velmoria Castle shimmered like a sea of molten gold.
Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceiling, scattering light across marble pillars and gilded curtains.
Mana-infused music swirled in the air, blending with laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the murmur of political wolves wrapped in silks and smiles.
And at the center of it all stood Raven's group—the heroes who had returned from the fight with death.
The moment they entered, the air shifted.
Nobles, lords, and foreign envoys swarmed like moths to a flame. Compliments, offers, and rehearsed greetings poured in faster than arrows on a battlefield.
"Sir Raven, what a pleasure! Your feats in the Ashen Expanse are—"
"Lady Selena, your control over water and shadows is legendary!"
"Miss Clara, I must say, your vibration magic—"
"—is not for discussion," Clara interrupted gently, smiling with perfect politeness that somehow carried the weight of a threat.
