The great doors opened again.
The doorman's voice carried cleanly across the ballroom.
"Lady Maelis D'Aurélion, of the D'Aurélion Family."
Maelis entered in a dark green gown, her black hair arranged neatly over one shoulder. She scanned the hall the moment she stepped inside.
When her eyes found Gray, her expression brightened at once.
She started toward him, then noticed Seraph's hand on his arm and slowed, the smile tightening just enough to be visible.
A few breaths later, the doorman spoke again.
"His Highness, Prince Leon."
Leon walked in with the easy posture of someone used to being watched.
His gaze passed over the crowd, paused briefly on Gray, and moved on without a greeting. Adrian followed not far behind him, announced in a lower tone, his expression already cold.
Then came another name.
"Headmistress Gloria of Gloria Academy."
Gloria entered in pale gold, her face as unreadable as ever.
