Chapter 46 - Chapter 46: An Invitation of Glass and Shadows

The Grand Conservatory gleamed like a polished crown beneath the August night, each windowpane glimmering with reflected starlight. From the gardens, its domed roof shimmered faintly with gold, as though the heavens themselves had stooped to watch what transpired within. Inside, chandeliers spilled rivers of molten light over marble floors, mirrors, and silken gowns that rippled like liquid jewels. The air was thick with the perfume of lilies and the low hum of conversation—dozens of voices mingling in tones of curiosity, envy, and veiled delight. Everywhere, people murmured about who had returned, who had fallen from grace, and who had dared to attend at all.