The party was in full swing in the grand hall, laughter and melodies escaping through the wide-open French doors. Kaiser, having left the stifling bustle behind, now stood alone on the terrace. A light breeze rose from the gardens, carrying with it the fresh scent of flowers.
He took out a small pocket watch and checked the time. Satisfied, he made a discreet wave of his hand. A few moments later, the piercing headlights of a black automobile cut through the night mist at the end of the main driveway. The vehicle approached without haste before coming to a silent stop at his feet.
"You're leaving us already, Lord Paragon?"
The voice was warm, slightly mocking, with that hint of amusement she never lost.
Ariana Hornraven stood a few meters away, walking until she faced him. She wore a blood-red satin dress whose inner revers of the sleeves and bodice were a deep red.
