The musicians changed the piece.
The first notes were slower, clearer, and immediately familiar.
Conversations across the hall thinned as nobles turned toward the open floor. An attendant near the dais announced what everyone had already understood.
"The first dance."
Partners began moving into place.
The Emperor remained seated while Prince Aerion watched the floor with polite interest.
A space opened in the center of the ballroom, polished stone shining under the chandeliers.
Gray set his glass down and looked at Seraph.
"Shall we?"
Seraph hesitated for only a second, then placed her hand in his.
They walked onto the floor together.
A few nearby nobles paused mid-step when they realized who had taken the first position. The First Princess and Gray Vireux D'Aurélion.
The pairing itself was already enough to draw eyes.
Gray's hand settled at her waist while Seraph's fingers rested against his shoulder.
