With Elise's dramatic departure, the atmosphere of the gathering changed significantly. The remaining courts continued their diplomatic and social activities, and the open hostility towards Lyanna disappeared. In fact, her public confrontation with Elise had earned her a grudging respect from vampires who valued strength and the ability to stand firm.
Lyanna sat beside Azrael at the head table, wearing a sapphire gown. She had learned to read the room now, sensing which vampires were genuinely talking and which were gathering intelligence, which alliances were forming and which were breaking apart.
Midway through the dinner, King Damien stood up from his seat and approached their table.
"Queen Lyanna, I owe you an apology."
Lyanna blinked in surprise. Vampire kings of his stature didn't usually apologize to human queens.
"Your Majesty?"
