The invitation had not been optional.
Royal events rarely were.
By the time we arrived, the hall was already filled, the low murmur of conversation settling into something controlled rather than relaxed. It was not loud, but it was not quiet either. Every voice carried just enough to be heard without drawing attention.
That was how these gatherings functioned.
Measured.
Deliberate.
I stepped inside without slowing, aware of the shift before I looked for it. It did not come all at once. It moved gradually, attention redirecting, conversations pausing just enough to acknowledge before continuing.
Not openly.
But not hidden either.
Darius remained beside me, his presence steady, unchanged. He did not look around. He did not need to. The effect was already established.
"Lord Valecrest."
The greeting came from our left.
I turned slightly, acknowledging the nobleman with a nod. "Lord Henrick."
