The shift from formality to indulgent mingling was abrupt, as if the weight of the ceremony had never settled upon the shoulders of those in attendance. Nobles wasted no time in resuming their conversations, now turning their attention toward more trivial affairs: alliances, rumors, and, most importantly, Gabriel.
Gabriel had hoped for a reprieve after the ceremony, but his newfound prominence made that impossible. He pushed himself from his chair with practiced ease, ignoring the way his limbs protested, and he only took two steps before being stopped.
"Lord von Jaunez," said a silk-clad woman, her smile refined yet piercing, like the edge of a blade. "What an exceptional display of composure tonight. "To stand beside His Majesty in such a manner speaks volumes about your resilience."
