Chapter 33: Grand Entrance
Empress Alexia sat on her golden throne, surveying the gathered nobility. She allowed the music to play for several minutes, giving the guests time to settle into the rhythm of the ball. When the song ended, she raised her hand subtly, and the musicians immediately fell silent.
The ballroom stilled as all eyes turned to the imperial dais.
"Distinguished guests," the Empress began, her voice carrying effortlessly across the grand space. "We welcome you to the Imperial Ball of the Celetis Empire."
She stood, and the entire assembly remained perfectly still, hanging on her every word.
"This gathering has been a tradition for over three hundred years, a testament to the enduring strength of our empire. Tonight, we celebrate not just our history, but our future. Our alliances, our achievements, and our shared prosperity."
Her gaze swept the room, lingering briefly on the representatives from Colere and the Demon Lands.
"I am particularly pleased to welcome Queen Maeve of the Demon Lands and the distinguished representatives of the Heavenly Dao Sect. Your presence honors us and speaks to the possibility of greater understanding between our peoples."
There was a polite smattering of applause, though many of the imperial nobles looked distinctly uncomfortable at the mention of cooperation with traditional rivals.
"As tradition dictates," the Empress continued, "the ball will commence with the first dance. On this special occasion, I am pleased to announce that my daughter, Princess Liona, will lead this dance."
A murmur rippled through the crowd. The first dance was typically reserved for the Empress herself or for politically significant pairings she wished to highlight. For the princess to lead it was unusual, especially given her youth.
Princess Liona stood, looking simultaneously nervous and determined. She stepped down from the dais to the center of the ballroom, where a circle had cleared for the first dance.