Chapter 203: Against clergy
The heavy double doors opened with a smooth sweep, and a rush of warm air from the grand foyer met them, carrying with it the scent of polished wood and the faintest trace of orchids from the arrangements flanking the entrance.
Lucas stepped through first, Trevor just half a step ahead, their joined pace effortless as they crossed the marble expanse toward the wide staircase descending into the receiving hall. The sound of distant conversation softened, a ripple of attention spreading through the gathered officials and courtiers as they appeared on the landing.
Trevor’s expression was all composed regality, the dark violet of his sash catching the light with each measured step. Lucas beside him was the quiet counterpoint: gold‑threaded embroidery glinting under the chandeliers, the plum‑and‑merlot fabric shifting like shadowed wine with each movement. They descended in unison, the hush of expectation following them like a tide.
At the base of the stairs, the Imperial family waited. Sirius stood at ease in a midnight suit, blue eyes bright with that irreverent charm that always masked sharper thoughts beneath. Beside him, Lucius’s gaze was cool and assessing, his posture perfect as though the weight of centuries rested easily on his shoulders. And there, slightly apart but still central, was Emperor Caelan himself, unmistakable in tailored black with a sweep of gold detailing at his cuffs, his presence quiet and immovable, the air around him seeming to hold itself in check.
Trevor’s stride didn’t falter as he approached, bowing his head with the respect due their station. Lucas mirrored him, offering the same polished nod, his green eyes meeting Caelan’s briefly before sliding to Sirius with the faintest flicker of wry amusement.
"Your Majesty," Trevor said evenly, voice low and steady as he inclined his head.
Caelan’s mouth curved, subtle and sharp. "Duke Fitzgeralt," he replied, his tone deceptively smooth. "You’ve kept us waiting, but I see it was worth it."
Lucas caught the faint sparkle in Sirius’s eyes at that, the Crown Prince leaning slightly forward. "You clean up well, Grand Duchess," Sirius quipped lightly, though there was genuine admiration in his glance.
"Thank you, Your Highness," Lucas replied, his voice calm, carrying that dry undertone Trevor adored. "It seemed wiser than arriving in disguise."
Trevor’s hand remained warm at the small of his back, steadying, grounding, as the pleasantries shifted to brief formalities, Lucius offering a cool but courteous greeting, Caelan’s eyes lingering in subtle appraisal.