The celebration was slowly coming to an end.
The music was softer now, the lights a little dim, and everyone had relaxed.
It felt like the night would finish with nothing more than a last drink and a few calm smiles.
Then the emperor cleared his throat.
"We talked about the engagement between my daughter and Vivian," he said, his voice steady.
He looked around the hall as he spoke.
His eyes moved over nobles, ministers, soldiers… and then stopped on Charlotte and Vivian, standing so close their sleeves touched.
Now that the announcement was out, everyone was thinking the same thing.
When and where will it happen?
The emperor gave a small nod, as if answering all their thoughts at once.
"The engagement will be held in the capital," he continued. "And the date…"
He paused, ready to speak the next words...but the doors at the far end of the hall slammed open.
A guard rushed inside, armor clinking, breathing fast.
The change in the room was sudden.
