The banquet in Nyxeria had begun in full splendor.
Music filled the grand court — bright, elegant, and threaded with notes of power. Every chandelier blazed with golden fire, casting waves of light over the royals of five kingdoms seated around the massive circular table. Servants moved gracefully between them, trays balanced high, pouring jeweled wine into crystal cups.
Laughter, gossip, and subtle rivalry floated like perfume through the air.
Aurelia sat beside Malion, smiling when she was supposed to, nodding when nobles addressed her, and pretending not to hear when the ladies whispered behind their fans. Her silver-blue gown shimmered like moonlight against the darker hues of the court, and her hair glinted with soft pearls each time she turned her head.
Across from her sat Queen Lira of Vareth, her crimson eyes gleaming with cunning amusement. "Your Majesty," she said to Malion, "you have outdone yourself again. Nyxeria glows brighter than the sun tonight."
