The laughter that had filled the Grand Hall gradually softened.
One by one, conversations came to an end as servants quietly collected empty goblets and replaced them with crystal glasses filled with sparkling wine. The orchestra allowed the final notes of their melody to linger before lowering their instruments.
Something was about to happen.
The nobles sensed it.
Even Rael, who had been enthusiastically convincing a young knight that cream puffs counted as a proper dinner, fell silent.
The enormous bronze doors at the far end of the ballroom opened.
The Master of Ceremonies stepped forward, his ceremonial staff gleaming beneath the chandeliers.
He struck the marble floor once.
The sharp sound echoed throughout the hall.
"Ladies and gentlemen..."
His voice carried effortlessly across the ballroom.
"The Royal Toast shall now commence."
A wave of anticipation swept through the guests.
Every noble rose to their feet.
The orchestra straightened.
